(Statement) The Free National
Movement was informed last evening of the tragic fire that raged through the
Straw Market at George Town, Exuma, and was hoping against hope that all would
not be lost. However, our worst fears
have now been confirmed as we have learned with deep regret that the Market was
totally destroyed putting at serious risk the lively hood and welfare of the many
Bahamians who occupied the market, as well as those who work in the Straw
industry in Exuma.
The straw market was
an integral part of the city of George Town. It was a historical land mark and
one of the cultural hubs that galvanized the tourism infrastructure and the straw
and craft industries on the island.
The Free National
Movement wishes to express its solidarity with the vendors during this
difficult time and calls upon the government to move swiftly to offer relief to
the vendors and to identify a suitable site where the vendors could continue
their operations until a new market has been constructed.
The Free National Movement reminds the
government that next week is perhaps the busiest week of the year for vendors in
Exuma, and no effort should be spared to ensure that they could be operational
by next week.
The public as well as
Exumians would recall that when the
Nassau Straw Market was destroyed by fire a program of relief and incentives
was immediately offered to assist the
vendors. The PLP does not have to reinvent, or create a new policy. The FNM has
established the standard. During the
Nassau fire vendors were given cash monies and customs duties exemptions
directly. Further, the government
provided additional relief by erecting a tent to house the vendors which placed
them back in business so that they could care for their families.
The Free National
Movement therefore, looks forward to the government providing assistance to the
vendors in a similar fashion, as well as ensuring a speedy conclusion into the
investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
The Free National
Movement has taken note of the Prime Minister’s comments made during an
interview on Radio Bahamas today and we urge him to act without delay.