The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) remains open and committed to a healthy relationship
with the Government of The Bahamas in the best interest of the island of Grand Bahama. GBPA is
not in competition with the government and understands that we both have clearly defined
legislative and regulatory responsibilities relating to the development and needs of Grand
Bahama.
The Government of The Bahamas is not subsidizing the GBPA. The GBPA, in fulfilling its
industrial development, various regulatory and environmental oversights, and city maintenance
mandate, is funded exclusively by its approximately 3,000 Licensees.
When adverse events such as hurricanes and the recent COVID pandemic cause a deficit, the Shareholders of GBPA have always
funded the deficit. The Government of The Bahamas is not subsidizing the GBPA when providing
healthcare, education, aviation, and assistance with tourism in Grand Bahama, as it is likewise
obligated to do so for every other island in our country.
While the GBPA has built schools, donate land for government projects, assisted with the hospital, and constructed the island’s airport, these were never a responsibility of the Grand Bahama Port Authority under the Hawksbill Creek
Agreement but an act of a strategic partner.We acknowledge that the government has a vital role to
play, as do we, to fulfill our respective mandates to work together for the betterment of our
island.GBPA believes it would be counter-productive to encourage a back and forth in the media as
we remain focused on the task at hand.
Many exciting developments are currently in the works for Freeport and Grand Bahama, and the GBPA is playing a key role in working with investors to bring these projects to fruition.
Examples already in the public domain include :-
- the new Cruise Port by Carnival Cruises,
- the Six Senses Resort development by Weller, and
- the expansion of the Grand Bahama Shipyard, to name a few.
We are preparing to engage with all our stakeholders to discuss
these and several other ambitious projects and the many dynamic opportunities they will create for
Bahamians.GBPA reiterates its desire to work with the Government of The Bahamas in the spirit of
cooperation to resolve any issues and work together to create a bright future for Grand Bahama.
