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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
 (Statement) The opening of the highly touted Bahamar Resort, had been billed as one of the greatest economic drivers in our country’s recent history. Armed with impressive designs, and grandiose plans for tourism promotion and growth, improved employment projects and millions in China secured funding, the company’s principals, supported by the Government of the Bahamas, began to build the dream. It was a dream which thousands of Bahamians bought into, and for a time, it appeared that the dream of Bahamar would become the reality. Over the past year and a half however, the once clear vision of economic prosperity promised by that development has faded into nothing more than a mirage. Now, after three separate delays, public wrangling with the lead contractor and a rumor mill which has spawned weeks of media and public speculation, it remains unclear exactly if and when the multi-billion dollar resort will open.
Equally troubling has been the impact of these delays on the lives of Bahamar’s employees; thousands of men and women – many of whom left other employment opportunities to join the “BAHANATION” – fates now remain unsettled. Despite the many varied conversations being had about Bahamar, no one is speaking up on behalf of the more than two thousand Bahamians who have, for all intents and purposes, been left twisting in the wind while the company’s executives attempt – so far unsuccessfully – to resolve its lingering disputes with China State Construction.
According to published media reports, those employees, many of them highly skilled and qualified in various fields have been reassigned to other areas of the property while others have joined forces with Urban Renewal to complete community projects around the island. The Democratic National Alliance recognizes the efforts of Bahamar to keep its employees on the payroll and for that they are to be commended. Unfortunately, such a position cannot be sustained indefinitely. The question is, how long before the situation becomes untenable? And what consequences will it hold for those Bahamian workers?
The DNA has long been an advocate for the rights of Bahamian workers, the protection of which remains a critical component in the development and advancement of our greatest national resource: OUR PEOPLE. A DNA government pledges to do all within its legal authority to ensure that the rights of workers in all sectors of our country are upheld and that where possible the necessary steps are taken to create a similar culture of protection where foreign investors are involved.
As it did early on in the life of this development, the Government of the Bahamas must play a more active and collaborative role in ensuring the success of this property. For the sake of the country, its reputation and its workforce, the DNA urges the government to work closely together to move the project forward. The Dream of Bahamar must not be allowed to die. Rather, we must all work collectively to make that dream a reality.
Branville McCartney
DNA Leader
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