A BAHAMIAN realtor is urging that the Government’s proposed planning law reforms add a “third step” for subdivision approval as he branded some of the fines, penalties and sanctions-related provisions “a little rough”.
David Morley, Morley Realty’s broker/owner, told Tribune Business that the Planning and Subdivision Bill 2026, which was recently tabled in the House of Assembly, should include an “occupancy certificate” type provision that would validate a developer has completed an approved subdivision with all the necessary infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, installed.
This, he added, would be in addition to the preliminary and full subdivision approvals that the Bill, and existing Act that was passed in 2010, provide for. However, Mr Morley argued that such a “third step” approval would bolster one of the legislation’s key goals - preventing unscrupulous developers from selling lots in irregular subdivisions to unsuspecting Bahamian buyers, who are then unable to realise any value or use one of their biggest-ever investments because no infrastructure is in place.
Realtor urges ‘third step’ for subdivision approval
‘Cost prohibitive’ warning amid pricedout concern
Buyers made ‘gatekeepers’ over illegal lot sales
The Morley Realty chief told this newspaper that it would only be upon issuance of this third approval, confirming that a subdivision has been completed and all requirements complied with, that a developer can start selling lots. And, noting that the Bill makes new mandatory demands on developers that are not included in the present Act, he urged caution in striking the correct balance between necessary regulation and ensuring real estate projects do not become “cost prohibitive”.
Pointing out that increased costs will inevitably be passed on to buyers just when many Bahamians are already “complaining real estate is too expensive”, Mr Morley said
Super Value chief: ‘No concern over the future’
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
SUPER Value’s owner says he has “no concerns about the future” of the 13-store grocery chain as he reassured customers and the Bahamian public: “I’m really on the road to recovery.”
Rupert Roberts, speaking to Tribune Business from his hospital room in the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and surrounded by close family, confirmed he is now out of intensive care after being struck down with pneumonia as he warmly thanked Bahamians
over their blood donations and prayers for his recovery.
Suggesting that there is “no reason why we couldn’t come back to the Bahamas in another ten days”, the Super Value chief also revealed that - once the pneumonia’s elimination is confirmed - he will likely have a replacement heart Pacemaker fitted while there at the Mayo Clinic before returning to this nation.
Disclosing that the heart pacemaker replacement had been discussed previously with Dr Duane Sands, his Bahamian doctor, Mr Roberts told this newspaper
PM mulls tax relief to counter Iran oil spike
BY FAY SIMMONS and Neil Hartnell Tribune Business Reporters
THE Prime Minister is warning that the conflict between Iran and the US and Israel could worsen cost of living pressures in The Bahamas by driving higher global oil prices and thus increasing local energy and transportation costs
Philip Davis KC, speaking at the weekend, said the renewed Middle East war threatens to push oil prices higher, potentially forcing the Government to examine tax adjustments to ease the burden on Bahamian households.
Describing the cost of living as The Bahamas’ “stubborn elephant”, Mr Davis said that - as a “consumptive economy” heavily reliant on imported goods and fuel - The Bahamas has limited control over externally driven price shocks and is extremely vulnerable to them.
“The foreign affairs ministry is monitoring very closely, and no doubt any unrest around the world, because we are consumptive economy, will impact us,” said Mr Davis. “As I always said, the stubborn elephant in our room is cost
several provisions - including the possibility of six months’ jail time for developers who fail to install utilities, complete roads or leave roads in disrepair - are too onerous and need to be “revisited” given that sufficient sanctions exist elsewhere.
He also noted that the Bill, which the Government appears keen on passing into law before Parliament is prorogued ahead of the upcoming general election, turns Bahamian lot buyers into “gatekeepers” by seemingly mandating that they tip-off the Department of Physical Planning’s director if they learn they are
Workers ‘screaming’ over termination pay for Grand Lucayan
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
UNIONISED Grand Lucayan middle managers are “screaming” that termination payouts have fallen short of what they believe is owed, with their president asserting: “We will not stop until they get paid and we do what we have to do.”
Obie Ferguson KC, head of the Bahamas Hotel and Managerial Association (BHMA), told Tribune Business that the situation is “absolutely terrible” and “really ridiculous” while asserting that the union’s 94 middle managers did not receive what they were due according to both the Employment Act and terms of their now-expired
industrial agreement during Friday’s severance payout at the resort.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) president said he is waiting to receive data on what BHMA members actually received so this can be compared to what the Association had calculated each of its members was due from the Government and its special purpose vehicle (SPV), Lucayan Renewal Holdings. He reiterated that he had received no objections from the Davis administration to the calculations of severance, and other outstanding benefits, that the union had submitted to the Government back in November.
DAVID MORLEY
GRAND LUCAYAN
Risk must be managed from the front-line first
THE words from my fraternity chapter president constantly echo in my head as I write this article: "Action over options.” Corporate thinking remains deeply rooted in the idea that risk management begins with compliance. There is a structural flaw, though, in that belief. Risk is not first identified in oversight functions; it is shaped in commercial decisions that define strategy, incentives, products and client engagement. In governance, the front line is not a supporting role. It is where governance either takes root or weakens.
This article examines why first, or front, line roles now carry direct accountability for both value creation and conduct, how misalignment between commercial ambition and governance discipline
generates exposure, and why company Boards must scrutinise risk ownership at its source.
Risk ownership begins with design
The Institute of Internal Auditors' updated ‘Three Lines’ model reframes risk management around roles, clarity and alignment. Firstline roles deliver products and services, and manage risks. Second-line roles provide expertise, support and challenge. Third-line roles provide independent assurance to the governing body. The emphasis is not on defensive separation but co-ordinated accountability. This shifts in practical implications are often ignored. Rather than following commercial design, risk management should inform it. Embedding
growth targets before considering execution capacity and control implications makes governance reactive. By the time the second-line challenge is introduced, performance momentum exists, and recalibration feels costly. As a result, risk becomes a matter of negotiation rather than something that can be structured deliberately. At its inception, this sequencing weakness is seldom apparent. Conversely, it tends to reveal itself through tension between roles.
Misalignment is structural, not cultural
As a result of incentives that reward volume without considering outcome quality, behaviour ultimately changes. To protect optics, escalation may be delayed. Governance questions can be interpreted as resistance
to growth. Friction emerges between roles that should align. Alternatively, companies need first-line leaders to internalise risk ownership in order to improve second-line engagement. When they do not, oversight becomes a corrective measure.
Research into leadership credibility reinforces this reality. Harvard Business Review notes that trust is built through consistency and follow-through, and directly influences company performance. These behaviours are evident in frontline decisions: How quickly issues are escalated, whether trade-offs are transparently acknowledged, and whether ambition aligns with operational capacity. Risk rarely materialises suddenly. It accumulates through
Derek Smith By
repeated misalignment between strategy and discipline.
Boards must examine first-line behaviour
Boards often confirm governance frameworks without examining how risk ownership operates in practice. The more penetrating question is whether the first line treats itself as the owner of risk, or whether oversight functions are expected to contain what commercial decisions create. This author posits that performance dashboards and
Mayaguana ‘forever changed’ by $2.1m airport investment
BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE Prime Minister has declared that Mayaguana’s economy will be “forever changed” as he commissioned the island’s new $2.1m airport terminal, tying the upgrade to a planned three-phase deepwater seaport projected to generate 2,000 jobs.
Philip Davis KC, speaking at the Saturday opening, positioned the newly-commissioned terminal as proof that the southern Bahamas “will not be neglected or forgotten” under his administration. He said Mayaguana is “primed to receive even more investments”, and the facility will make the island more accessible than ever before.
“The southern Bahamas is fully included in our plans and will not be neglected or forgotten; not under this
administration. Mayaguana has waited a long time for this,” said Mr Davis. “Your patience has paid off and your future is bright. Welcome to your new airport. And welcome to the next chapter of growth and development for this island.”
Mr Davis said the terminal at Abraham’s Bay Airport represents part of a broader public-private partnership (PPP) framework aimed at modernising infrastructure on the island and positioning Mayaguana as a future hub for tourism, trade and logistics in the southern Bahamas.
Spanning just under 3,200 square feet, the fully air-conditioned facility features a ticketing area with seating for 30 passengers; dedicated airline office space; a baggage screening area; restrooms; vendor space; and a police station with a holding cell. The airport’s 6,700-foot runway accommodates mid-sized jet
aircraft and currently supports scheduled domestic service between Mayaguana and Nassau.
Mr Davis said the Government has already committed to a three-phased deepwater seaport for the island through a partnership between the Government, the Mayaguana Island Development Fund and Global Lead Consultant Group. The proposed project will include a marine offloading facility, cruise ship terminal and deepwater transshipment port alongside adjacent land development.
“This project, which will be jointly owned by the Government of The Bahamas, the Mayaguana Island Development Fund and our private partners, is projected to create 2,000 jobs over its lifetime,” said Mr Davis. “Two thousand new jobs right here in Mayaguana. The economy of Mayaguana will be forever changed by
this progress. And this is just the beginning of our plans.”
Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, described the airport upgrade as part of the Government’s 14-airport expansion strategy across The Bahamas.
He said the new terminal positions Mayaguana to increase airlift, stimulate investment and support sustainable growth aligned with the island’s “unique character”, while opening opportunities for expanded cargo activity and new industries, including commercial fishing.
“We understand how important these infrastructural developments are to driving growth, how they enhance the quality of life and unlock economic viability for Bahamians
throughout our archipelago. Infrastructure is access and connectivity, but infrastructure is dignity,” said Mr Cooper.
“Mayaguana’s unique charm and pristine environment deserve to be more accessible than ever, opening new cargo, air, sea, creation of industries, including commercial fishing. I envisage one day that we're going to be flying seafood out of here to Brazil directly. You’ve got the airstrip to do it.”
Construction on the terminal began in December 2024 and was completed in the 2025 third quarter, with full electrical power connected in January 2026.
The facility forms part of the Government’s broader Family Islands renaissance initiative, described as the most extensive airport
remuneration structures can provide the answer. If metrics emphasise speed and acquisition without equal measurement of sustainable outcomes, the signal for the first line is clear. Governance then becomes reactive rather than designed. In summary, risk management does not begin with compliance reviews. It begins where strategy includes integrated action between accountable roles. Reconsider whether your company has integrated risk ownership into its commercial discipline, or whether it continues to rely on oversight to correct structural imbalances after the fact.
• NB: About Derek Smith Jr Derek Smith Jr has been a governance, risk and compliance professional for more than 20 years with a leadership, innovation and mentorship record. He is the author of ‘The Compliance Blueprint’. Mr Smith is a certified anti-money laundering specialist (CAMS) and holds multiple governance credentials. He can be contacted at hello@pineapplebusinessconsultancy.com
infrastructure investment programme in the nation’s history.
Mr Cooper said interest in Mayaguana continues to build, supported by its environment, strategic location and development potential, as the Davis administration seeks to accelerate economic activity in the southern Bahamas through targeted infrastructure investment.
“We expect that this is going to be the beginning of the renaissance for Mayaguana. People will know that the airport is here, open for business,” said Mr Cooper. “I envisage the logistics and maritime hub being here. And, as a result of these developments, there will be need for accommodations, schools and hospitals and hotels, etc. I'm hoping that this will be the catalyst that drives the future development of Mayaguana.”
Bahamas feels the love from wedding planners
BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE Ministry of Tourism’s investment in Romance Week and the “From The Bahamas with love” familiarisation tour appears to be paying early dividends, with visiting planners reporting immediate sales, repeat visits and plans to market multiple Family Islands to high-value wedding and honeymoon clients.
June Dean, manager of the Ministry of Tourism’s Harbour Island office, said demand for destination
weddings in the destination remains strong with bookings now stretching well in advance.
“We’ve been hosting quite a few weddings on Harbour Island and, because the demand is so high, couples tend to book at least a year in advance,” said Mrs Dean. “We probably host about 30 to 40 destination weddings per year.”
Her comments came as 50 international wedding planners and romance specialists visited The Bahamas for the fourth annual ‘From The Bahamas with love’ immersive experience,
held in conjunction with Romance Week. Participants were taken to multiple islands — including Andros, Grand Bahama, Harbour Island and Exuma — to experience first-hand the product they are expected to market to clients.
Among those already converting exposure into revenue was Italian travel agency owner and influencer, Fabiana Raffani, who said she has generated more than €65,000 in hotel sales for Harbour Island.
“Just the name Bahamas is perceived in Italy as an exotic destination,” said Ms Raffini. “After French
From box office bomb to media powerhouse: Skydance’s 20-year rise to overtake Paramount, Warner Bros
By MATT SEDENSKY
AP National Writer
IN ITS debut film, Skydance Productions released a special effects-laden World War I drama about fighter pilots with a starring role for an unknown actor, the
company’s founder, David Ellison. It was a box office bomb. Twenty years later, in a twist fit for Hollywood itself, the tiny studio once brushed off as a billionaire scion’s vanity project is poised to be an entertainment behemoth.
With that once-unknown actor at its helm and a merger with Paramount already under its belt, Skydance is now on the cusp of another takeover that once seemed unthinkable, this time of storied giant Warner Bros. Discovery.
Polynesia, The Bahamas is
the most requested destination for romance. Harbour Island’s Pink Sand Beach is one of the three best beaches in the world. It’s truly beautiful; a beach that gives you so many emotions.”
Angélica Martínez, a Colombian agent with 25 years’ experience in the Caribbean market, said Latin American interest is also strengthening with improved connectivity helping drive bookings.
“There is strong interest in the Latin American market,” said Ms Martínez. “Copa flies five times a week from Panama to The Bahamas. From Colombia, travellers don’t need a visa, and it’s only a two-hour flight. It’s very easy to visit.” She added that while many of her destination weddings are currently placed in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas is emerging as a premier option for couples seeking a more exclusive experience.
“It’s only a surprise to those who haven’t been paying attention to the long game,” says Walter Nicoletti, founder of the film production company Voce Spettacolo, noting Skydance’s focus on financing hit movies and accumulating assets while partnering with some of the biggest companies in the business. “This is a sort of a silent takeover. Skydance didn’t start as a predator. It started as an essential partner.”
When Ellison, the son of tech giant Oracle Corp. co-founder Larry Ellison, launched Skydance as a 23-year-old in 2006, the company registered little more than a blip in an industry
US-based planners also signalled expansion plans. Maxine Grant, a travel advisor with the Association of Bridal Consultants in New York, said the destination’s strong hotel product makes it attractive even beyond weddings. “Even if it’s not a destination wedding, we still sell honeymoons and anniversary packages,” said Mrs Grant.
“I find it to be very romantic, and I will definitely send my clients to Harbour Island.” Atlanta-based planner Mesita Partridge, owner of Events by Mesita, said the multi-island exposure strengthened her confidence in selling The Bahamas.
“I’ve done destination weddings in Jamaica and Mexico, and also in Miami, but The Bahamas is definitely at the top of my list now,” she said. “After touring Harbour Island and seeing the properties, I can’t wait to come back.”
European planners attending for the first time also highlighted growth potential beyond the UK
where he was just another rich newcomer trying to gain a foothold in the warmth of Hollywood’s bright lights.
“Flyboys,” the war story it chose as its inaugural feature, did little to raise its profile.
“Cloyingly formulaic,” jeered The Seattle Times. An “inflated wannabe epic,” chimed in The Washington Post. “It’s hard not to giggle,” concluded The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The celebrated critic Richard Roeper echoed the panning reviews of his brethren and the lackluster response of audiences in questioning what the movie’s makers were thinking.
market. Isabelle Mislanghe, whose agency has operated for 26 years, said the authenticity of the destination stood out.
“What I see is amazing,” she said. “Bahamians are very friendly and welcoming, and it’s genuine. The tranquility, the nature and the architecture give this destination strong potential for the European market.”
The five-day conference and familiarisation tour forms part of a broader strategy by the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation to deepen longterm relationships with wedding professionals and position The Bahamas not just as a beach escape, but as a full-spectrum romance destination across multiple islands.
By immersing planners in local culture, landscapes and on-the-ground suppliers, officials hope to convert emotional connection into sustained booking pipelines - particularly for high-spend wedding and honeymoon travellers.
“Why make such a corny and incredibly predictable film?” he wrote.
But Ellison plodded on. As the years ticked by, more flops came but he slowly notched successes too. He partnered with some of the biggest names in the business, including Paramount, Netflix and Apple, and unleashed a string of hits that brought in hundreds of millions at the box office. He lured both talent and streams of financing. He even released the rare film to surpass the $1 billion mark, the 2022 blockbuster “Top Gun: Maverick,” with his studio’s most reliable star, Tom Cruise.
Straw vendor chief calls for new Business Licence halt
BY ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter anixon@tribunemedia.net
A BAY Street straw market vendor is calling on the Government to suspend the issuance of new Business Licences as she and her colleagues continue to suffer a decline in sales.
Celestine Eneas, the Straw Vendors Advancement Association president, said Royal Caribbean’s long-awaited Paradise Island beach break destination is only one factor driving a lack of business for vendors.
She has previously voiced concerns that the Royal Beach Club will keep tourists away from downtown Nassau and the Straw Market, and asserted that
passengers do not leave their cruise ships while docked in Nassau. “Tourists are coming, but we're not seeing tourists like that,” she added. “If you say the tourist ain't here on the island, you'll be telling a lie. But they're not spending any money.
“I just came off a cruise about two weeks ago. I ain't even come off at one port. I been at Crystal Cay. That's Grand Bahama. I went to Eleuthera and someplace else, and I ain't come off one port. And I didn't come off because I wasn't feeling well. But do you know how much tourists on those ships that ain't coming off those ships?” Ms Eneas said “stiff competition” also stems from an over-saturation of businesses in downtown Nassau
selling similar products, including souvenirs and straw-made items.
“Let's say you come off the ship,” she added. “You get in Nassau port. When you reach somebody send you a tour. You buy a tour. If they take you around the island, every place they take you, they could carry you to a stop where you buy the same thing that we selling.
“Then the shops on Bay Street, they selling the same thing we selling. And every time you look around, there's another Indian shop pop up…. I'm only saying the competition is stiff, my dear. If you look over on the dock by Senor Frogs, you remember they cleaned that dock up, right? You see they right back out again. The people right back there again.
Potter’s Cay: 25 vendors set to have BPL supply by end-March
BY ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
AT LEAST 25 vendor stalls at Potter’s Cay dock will receive electricity in the 2026 first quarter following a delay of several months.
Ormanique Bowe, president of the Potter’s Cay Dock Fish, Fruit and Vegetable Vendors Association, in May 2025 told Tribune Business that work to bring electricity to Potter’s Cay was set to begin on June 1 last year and that most stalls would have electricity by that September. However, now in 2026, Jobeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport, has announced that Potter’s Cay will experience electricity by end-March 2026.
“This project means transformation in a sector that is so important to our culture in The Bahamas,” Mrs Coleby-Davis said in a video. “Potter's Cay is known to every family, and the tradition of coming out on the weekends to celebrate with the vendors here is important. And so this is expansion and growth for Potter's Cay because now they're going to have access to reliable power.”
Ms Bowe said most vendors did not have meter boxes in the appropriate places, while others do not have the correct meter boxes at all, leading to delayed progress in bringing electricity to Potter’s Cay. She added that new contractors had to be brought in and all stakeholders involved had to work at getting “on the same accord”.
“Meaning Ministry of Works, BPL and Water and Sewerage, because if you notice, they're doing a lot of trenching, and Water and Sewerage lines are also underground, so everybody has to be on the same accord so that the work can go forth,” Ms Bowe said. She added that underground wires are being run as work continues, “so hopefully by the end of the year all of the stores will be electrified”. Ms Bowe said of 45 stalls, 25 will have electricity in the near future. With power coming
to Potter’s Cay, her hope is that vendors will be able to get their buildings insured, noting that they currently are not.
“Electricity and restrooms, that'll be a big upgrade, and that'll make insurance companies more or less look at us more as small restaurants instead of little shacks or little stalls that most people refer to us as,” she added. With Potter’s Cay having several experienced fires in recent years, and Arawak Cay suffering from a similar blaze last year, Ms Bowe
CNC BRIDGE MACHINE OPERATOR / MARBLE FABRICATOR
The CNC Bridge Machine Operator must have 8 years minimum experience I AUTOCAD and INVENTOR modeling and drawing software. Must have a minimum of 8 years’ experience operating a forklift to place stone slab on CNC machine. Must have a minimum of 8 years as a CNC Bridge Machine Operator / Fabricator working with high-quality quartz, marble, granite and sintered stones.
Applicant must be fluent in both Spanish, English and Portuguese written and oral. Please apply to alanbydesign242@gmail.com
“They have plenty choices. And they put the port right there, Nassau Cruise Port. They selling the same thing we selling. They said that's authentic Bahamian [products]. But that ain't so. They selling sweatshirt and t-shirts So if you going to the ship, why you need to load down with things and you get it right as you go to the ship?”
Ms Eneas said tourists are barely spending money and, when they do, they buy smaller souvenirs that are easier to travel with. She said large straw hats and other similar products are no longer top sellers.
Airlines are charging steeper bag fee prices and tourists are careful about how they spend their funds, she added before suggesting that the Government “cut all licensing” for those wanting to set up shop in downtown Nassau.
“Everybody bashing the Bahamian people for selling the souvenirs. That's what people interested in buying now. Nobody interested in buying these hats straw. When you go to the plane, how are you going to carry these things back, and the people only allowing
said it is all about being responsible. She added that once vendors are equipped with electricity they will switch from gas-run appliances to electric, lessening the risk of a fire.
“When they close their stalls at night they have to make sure that all their systems are off,” she said. “You cannot leave a deep fry on and expect to come back and meet a building. If you leave your stove on in your house, when you come back home, the house will be full of fumes. If you walk in and light a cigarette, what happens? So persons just need to be more responsible to avoid all of these incidents.
“I was on Porter's Cay for 25 years. June coming will make me 25. And just in the recent past five years,
you 40 pounds,” Ms Eneas added.
“If you buy ten gifts, you're looking for ten small items that you could give people. People are not thinking of the time we're living in. They're living back in the in the 50s, the 70s and the 80s. Things change. What ain’t downtown, no, we don’t need another one. The Government need to cut all licensing. They don't need to licence another shop. It's too much.”
Bay Street straw market vendors have asserted in the past that the heat in the market has deterred many tourists from stopping and shopping. However, Ms Eneas said a cooling system has arrived, though has yet to be installed. While not yet confirmed, she said the Market will have to close possibly after Spring Break for this to happen.
“The AC is here,” Ms Eneas said. “Well, we just had a meeting with the minister about two weeks ago, and he was asking when would we recommend him to close the market down to put it in, because it seems like they saying you have to close the market.
“So I tell them they could work just like that.
we had fires. So that means somebody is not responsible. And Arawak Cay had their first fire last year, so somebody again was not responsible. So it all boils down to responsibility because none of it was arson. You just got to be responsible. I pray that it don't happen again.
“And then some persons who don't want to use gas fires and stove any more could go to electric now because we're going to have electricity. So that will alleviate some of the problems, some of the gas and all of that, because you have electric deep fryers now you have electric stoves. So some persons may just choose to go that way.”
Ms Bowe said electricity provided to vendors means
But I told them to wait for September when it's slow. He say they can't wait for September because they need to put it in before summer. So I told him after the Spring Break. But they didn't decide on no time. They said they will get back to us on time.”
During the market’s closure, it is also set to receive treatment for rodents according to another straw vendor, Deidre Palacious. “I know we supposed to be closing down after Spring Break for probably two weeks or so,” Ms Palacious said, “They want to put a cooling system in and then spray for the rats and all different things. And we supposed to pack up all our things and carry it home, off all the booths.
“When they told us last year, they said it was supposed to be two weeks, but then it was close to Christmas, so a lot of the vendors didn't want to. And then it went into January. They said they'll do it after January. And now they're saying they have to do it before the summer and it have to be done after spring break. The last time they told us, it was two weeks.”
no more generator bills which she priced at $60 per day. She added another $60 is typically spent on ice per day. Though they will pay an electric bill, she said it should not be nearly as expensive as they system that is in place currently.
Ms Bowe also noted that most vendors will be able to invest in freezers or ice makers for their stall. She said they would like to “run away from the solar panels” because they would prefer vendors to use BPL’s system, adding that they have a transformer and if power was to be cut they would not be impacted.
In Mrs Coleby-Davis’ video, Dwayne “Tall Boy” Bastian, proprietor of Tall
POWER - See Page B12
Electronic subdivisions register to stop Physical Planning ‘inundation’
being sold land in an unapproved subdivision.
Nevertheless, Mr Morley backed the Government’s intent in amending the existing legislation and pointed to several positive reforms. These, he added, included the Bill’s section nine (2), which mandates that the Department of Physical Planning keep both a paper and electronic register of subdivision and development approvals/applications with the latter accessible via an online platform.
He voiced optimism that this would prevent the Department from being
“inundated” with requests from attorneys seeking confirmation that their clients are acquiring property and land in approved subdivisions - as has happened in the past. However, he added that Physical Planning will need to implement the reforms in a way that ensures no “backlog and delay” for developers, and “minimises red tape”.
“I totally understand what Physical Planning and the Government are trying to achieve,” Mr Morley told Tribune Business. “They are trying to get rid of a situation where people sell subdivisions without full approval, and sell lots to people without the
underlying infrastructure - roads, utilities - being in place or a bond to get the infrastructure.
“The purpose of the Act is to clean up the situation, bring accountability and ensure anyone trying to buy a piece of property is going to get something of value and use to them. I think it will finally do it. It’s just that some of the provisions in it are a little rough.” As an example of this, Mr Morley cited the new Bill’s section 31 (2). This states: “A purchaser under an agreement for sale or conveyance in respect of a lot situated in a subdivision that has not been granted subdivision
approval in accordance with this Act shall, where he becomes aware of the vendor’s contravention, notify the director [of physical planning] in writing of the failure to obtain subdivision approval.”
“That, to me, is a little rough,” Mr Morley added. “They are asking buyers to be gatekeepers.” He also pointed to the sanctions levied in the Bill’s section 44 for a developer’s failure to install utilities, or complete and maintain roads, within the stipulated time, which call for a $20,000 or sixmonth jail sentence.
“I’ve never heard of anybody going to jail or paying a fine for not carrying out their works,” he said. “There’s enough other penalties in this proposed Act if it is not an approved subdivision. There has to be a third step.” Besides the preliminary and full approvals granted to subdivision developers, Mr Morley proposed that the Bill provide for a third and final ‘completion’ approval that would permit lot sales to start.
“If they really want to protect the interests of the public and purchaser, and make sure lot sales are only in approved subdivisions and utilities are installed, if that is the concern give them [the developer] a final third step like an occupancy certificate to allow them to sell the properties,” Mr Morley told Tribune Business.
The Bill, as with the current Act, renders the sale of lots in unapproved subdivisions as “null and void” in a bid to protect the Bahamian public. Several high-profile cases have arisen in recent decades, including that of Olympia Heights, where Ramon Miller and other Bahamian Olympic medallists were granted land, he building his family’s home, only to find no infrastructure or utilities were installed. There was also no bond or financing in place for this until the adverse publicity forced the Government to act.
Mr Morley, while backing the Bill’s objectives, warned against provisions that further increase already-high development costs in an environment where more and more Bahamians are voicing frustrations about being priced out of the real estate market.
He pointed, in particular, to the factors that the Town Planning Committee must take into account when deciding whether to
approve a development, which include “the adequacy of utilities, services and community services, inclusive of schools and clinics”. The Morley Realty chief asked: “Is a developer required to build a school and clinic?” He added that the mandated provision of “sidewalks and all other means of pedestrian access” in all subdivisions appears to be a new requirement not present in the existing Act, while the Government - in the 2026 Bill - will now be permitted to hold “a minimum of 5 percent” of the performance bond obtained by the developer to guarantee completion of any subdivision road “for a period of one year after completion”.
Mr Morley said the latter appeared to amount to “some kind of warranty” that will now be demanded from subdivision developers. And he questioned whether it was necessary given that the Bill requires all roads in subdivisions, apart from those in gated communities, to be turned over to the Government within one year of completion.
“How can a developer be held liable for a bond for another year when the installation has been approved, inspected and turned over to the Government?” he asked. Mr Morley also noted the Bill’s section 27 on development agreements, which provides for developers to make “contribution” - via works, money or land - to providing “services, facilities (including the future maintenance thereof) and amenities” in the area being developed.
Suggesting this was “almost like a double dip”, given that developers are being asked to make maintenance contributions that are normally financed via taxes and utility bills, Mr Morley branded this “a little concerning”. He warned that these are all new elements that impose extra development costs, and which are likely to ultimately be paid by lot buyers and property purchasers.
“It looks like they’ve added some additional provisions,” he told Tribune Business. “All these costs are going to be passed through to the purchaser. While it’s good and vital that subdivisions are done properly and thoroughly, one has to be mindful they don’t become cost prohibitive such that land does not get developed and not made cost
prohibitive to the public so that people are priced out of the market because of cost.
“A lot of people are complaining that real estate is too expensive. The cost of installing infrastructure in a subdivision is very expensive. If you put in underground utilities and paved roads it will cost you probably $40,000-$45,000 a lot. That’s the hard cost for the infrastructure. That doesn’t even factor in the initial investment in the land, the surveying, the professional fees and any overhead and profit for the developer.
“While back in the late 1990s you were able to sell lots for $30,000-$35,000, you cannot do that any more,” Mr Morley said. “You cannot even cover your infrastructure cost per lot. Things are changing. I fully understand and support the intent of this Bill - to protect the public buying real estate from illegal sales and unapproved development that leaves buyers having to spend thousands of dollars to bring utilities to their property.
“I fully respect that, but there are some points that have to be looked at and revisited. While the penalties need to be in there, they need to be revisited…. It’s going to tighten things up, but also create additional expenses to developers. Who knows how it’s going to change the appetite for these things and the timeline to get the necessary approvals. Hopefully, Physical Planning has figured out how to implement this so no backlog and delay is caused. In others words, try and minimise red tape.”
The existing Planning and Subdivision Act is a foundational law that provides the legal basis, or statutory footing, for all real estate and property-related development in The Bahamas - including hotels and resort-style communities, which form the bedrock of the Bahamian economy, plus housing and subdivision developments that are urgently needed given the estimated 12,000 affordable homes shortage facing this nation.
However, virtually all the developers, realtors and conveyancing attorneys spoken to by Tribune Business said they were unaware the Bill that will replace the existing Act had been tabled in the House of Assembly even though some were aware of the Government’s intentions and been consulted on it.
Exuma developer, opponents battle over freedom of speech
THE $200m Rosewood Exuma developer yesterday clashed with its opponents over allegations that it has hired a high-powered UK law firm to stifle and muzzle legitimate criticism of its project,
The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), the collection of island businesses and other residents, in a statement accused Miamibased Yntegra Group of attacking Bahamians’ constitution-protected free speech by employing the London-based law firm, Schillings, to issue warning letters threatening opponents and critics with defamation claims unless they make retractions and apologies for previous statements.
However, Yntegra refuted these claims and hit back by asserting that Schillings’ involvement and letters are merely intended to correct false, inaccurate and defamatory information that is being spread about its planned project by opponents. The developer also affirmed that it “fully respects the right of every Bahamian to express their views on any matter, particularly those that impact their community, environment and livelihoods”.
The SEA, though, in its statement said of the warning letters: “The effect of this is unsettling as it refers to the matter of free speech. You cannot have a consultation process where the developer’s lawyers are warning people what they can and can’t say.
“We are aware that letters have been sent, and people should not fear legal retribution for speaking up on an issue of genuine public concern. It is unconscionable to think that Bahamians can be threatened into silence by
a foreign developer and its high-powered lawyers.”
Yntegra, though, argued: “Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of any democratic society and a right protected under the constitution of The Bahamas. We fully respect the right of every Bahamian to express their views on any matter, particularly those that impact their community, environment and livelihoods. Open dialogue and civic participation are essential components of a transparent and responsible development process.
“Equally important, however, is the public’s right to access accurate, verified and complete information. In a project of this scale and complexity, public understanding must be grounded in facts that have been reviewed and assessed by the appropriate government authorities, environmental agencies and independent subject-matter experts.
“In certain instances, public statements and media reports have contained claims that, in our view, do not fully reflect the facts relating to the project. Where inaccuracies arise, it is both reasonable and responsible to request that published information be supported by verifiable evidence. Our intention has never been to silence opinion, but to ensure that discussions of public importance are informed by accurate and complete facts.”
Yntegra’s opponents are voicing concern over its plans to dredge Sampson Cay’s North Bay and over the location of its service dock and seawall, arguing that both will negatively impact the pristine marine environment that Exuma relies on to attract visitors.
The owner of the Turtlegrass Resort and Island Club, Bob Coughlin, who is arguably Yntegra’s leading opponent and critic, previously received a letter from Schillings threatening legal action against him, his company and environmental consultant Eric Carey.
“I have heard from several people in the community who are hesitant to speak out because they fear legal threats,” said Kearje Smith, a Black Point, Exuma tour operator and one of the recipients of the referred to letter. “Others have told me they feel unable to share their views because they worry about potential repercussions.
“That is not how we should operate in the modern-day Bahamas. People must feel free to express their opinions on any issue, especially one that directly affects their environment and the way they live and work. I intend to exercise my right to free speech and will not be intimidated into silence.”
Yntegra, though, yesterday denied this and asserted: “Correspondence was issued only in relation to specific statements that were defamatory and factually incorrect by Bob Coughlin, Eric Carey and Kearje Smith.
“Protecting against demonstrably false allegations is not an attempt to suppress free speech; it is a lawful step available to any individual or company when reputational harm arises from unverified or inaccurate statements.”
It also hit out at claims it will rely on foreign labour, adding: “Yntegra has consistently stated that the Rosewood Exuma project is committed to prioritising Bahamian employment and skills development. Under
the Heads of Agreement (HOA), Yntegra committed to a minimum of 80 percent Bahamian employment.
“Any work permit applications relate to specialised roles where local expertise may not yet be available and are subject to strict government review and approval under established immigration laws. Such permits cannot exceed the 20 percebt cap agreed to in the HOA.”
Yet the SEA added: “This is not just a matter of protecting individuals, it is a matter of protecting the constitution of The Bahamas. Article 15(b) of the constitution guarantees that every person in The Bahamas has the right, whatever his race, place of origin, political opinions, colour, creed or sex, subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest, to freedom of expression.
“It is fundamentally wrong to try to challenge that, and anyone who stands with those who believes such behaviour is appropriate should consider why
they are working with someone who wants to silence Bahamians.”
And the SEA continued: “It is particularly outrageous that Bahamians are finding their freedom to speak threatened by foreign parties. There have been two recent Town Planning meetings to consider the project – and even with the fear of consequences, people turned out to ask questions and seek answers. How many more were wary of speaking up?
“The frustrating thing is that solutions have been presented to…. honour the request to co-exist, such as moving the project’s proposed dock location to the southern end of the project, which would eliminate the need for dredging, and scaling back the size of the project, which is of a scale more suited to Miami than Exuma. If Yntegra would follow common-sense revisions, there would be no need for all of this.”
But Yntegra said it “continues to operate fully within the established legal and regulatory framework”.
It added: “Freedom of speech and access to factual information are not opposing principles; they are complementary. In today’s environment, where misinformation can spread rapidly, responsible journalism plays a critical role in equipping citizens with reliable and verified information.
“We value and respect the work of the media and remain fully committed to transparency. We are always prepared to provide documentation, technical studies and supporting materials that have been reviewed by the appropriate government agencies and leading experts.
“We welcome constructive engagement and remain open to dialogue with all stakeholders. Yntegra remains committed to working within the regulatory framework of The Bahamas, and to pursuing a development that meets the highest environmental and planning standards.”
SAMPSON CAY, YNTEGRA ROSEWOOD PROJECT
CRYPTOQUOTE
JUDGE PARKER
CALVIN & HOBBES
DENNIS THE MENACE
MICRO CROSSwORD
Warehouse capacity doubling as facility upgrades ‘from Stone Age’
RECOVER - from page B1
how the former minister of health extracted some 64 ounces of fluid from his lungs as part of efforts to stabilise him and treat the pneumonia so he was sufficiently well to be transported by air ambulance to Minnesota.
Describing himself as “still young”, Mr Roberts voiced optimism about Super Value’s future under its president, Debra Symonette, who he said has been managing the supermarket chain for the past five years, and the involvement of his grandchildren, Patrick and Paige Waugh, in the business.
He even disclosed that the company is “making big improvements” to its warehouse, adding that it had been “operating in the Stone Age and we are bringing it into the 21st century” by doubling the number of shipping containers it handles on a weekly basis from 250 to 500.
Recalling how he ended up in Minnesota, Mr
Roberts said he started to feel ill on the night of Wednesday, February 18. “I felt it was more serious than I thought during the night,” he said of the following morning, deciding to seek care straight away at Doctors Hospital. “I was admitted, and admitted straight to the intensive care unit (ICU),” the Super Value chief recalled. “I’ve had so many drugs between then and now but I was attended by a great team.” Mr Roberts said Dr Sands, who attended his bedside between three to four times’ per day, quickly diagnosed pneumonia and drained fluid from his lungs.
“He said ‘I did it’. He said ‘I got 64 ounces’,” Mr Roberts recalled Dr Sands telling him about the amount of fluid extracted from his lungs. He and his family praised the entire Doctors Hospital ICU and nursing staff for stabilising his condition and preparing him to be medically-evacuated to the Mayo Clinic,
with blood tests being conducted every six hours.
Unable to get the necessary deposit to the US healthcare facility in time for the weekend, the Super Value owner eventually left Nassau on Monday, February 23, via air ambulance - accompanied by a doctor and two nurses, as well as his grand-daughter, Paige. His wife and daughter, Candy, flew to Minnesota separately to be with him.
“I was in God’s hands,” Mr Roberts told Tribune Business. “The Mayo Clinic has a drive-in. I remember them driving me in and taking me up to the room. Paige said the only time she was concerned was when they started clipping the electric wires and tubing off me because they were pumping oxygen directly into the lungs. That was a concern but she was soon reassured. I had a feeding tube in my stomach and oxygen going directly into the lungs.
“When I got to the Mayo Clinic I knew I was in good hands. I’ve been coming
Argentine lawmakers approve historic labor reform promoted by President Javier Milei
By ALMUDENA CALATRAVA Associated Press
dent Javier Milei scored a crucial victory in congress Friday with the approval of a sweeping labor reform aimed at radically altering labor relations in the South American country. With 42 votes in favor, 28 against and two abstentions, the Senate passed the government-backed initiative into law. The reform seeks to modernize labor relations, lower labor costs and limit the historical power of unions.
ARGENTINE Presi-
"Historic! We have a labor modernization," Milei said after the overhaul was approved.
Shortly before the debate began in Argentina's upper house, clashes broke out between police and protesters participating in a demonstration organized by unions, opposition political
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that RONALD MESIDOR of Podoleo Street, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of Marh, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that JACKSON SANCHEZ of Father Callan Road, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that BRITTANIA BAINES of Bamboo Street, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that WESLEY JOSEPH of #25A Podoleo Street, P.O. Box N-1048, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
here for 15 years. We left Nassau on Monday morning, and by Monday night treatment had started at Mayo. Then, from day-today, I knew I was improving but I was very weak. I could hardly talk.” Mr Roberts’ family recalled how he could hardly open his eyes and was unable to see those around him.
The Super Value chief, revealing that he spent two days in ICU at the Mayo Clinic, said he was then moved to his room after starting to recover and told Tribune Business that he felt “great” when speaking to this newspaper on Friday. “No aches, no pains, just sore from being up and down and sitting and lying around too much,” Mr Roberts said. “I think they have to treat this virus for another three to four days.”
Should the pneumonia be eliminated, he added that the next step will be replacement of his existing Pacemaker after the third of its three leads “didn’t hook” properly. “After the virus, we’re going to go in like Dr Sands and myself had discussed and they’re going to take out the existing Pacemaker and add the most modern one,” he said. “Early next [week]
groups and left-wing social organizations outside the Parliament building to oppose the reform. At least three people were arrested.
The bill, which grants employers greater flexibility in matters of hiring, firing, severance and collective bargaining, has drawn fierce opposition from critics who argue it would roll back measures that protect workers from abuse and Argentina's notoriously frequent economic shocks.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that EMMANUEL PAUL of #39 Eaton Road, off Yellow Elder Gardens, Nassau, The Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of MARCH, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that RAYMOND JOSEPH of Sea Breeze Lane, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that ROSTIN CHARLES of East Street, P.O. Box EE-16518, Nassau, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that SONIA DORMEUSSENAT of Faith Gardens, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
I think I’ll go in for a new Pacemaker….
“I don’t see any reason why we couldn’t come back in another ten days but, there again, that’s the future. After the pacemaker, I have to do the rest of my physical for the rest of the year. I hope to do yhat physical and everything will be fine. I’m still young. I will only be 90 the birthday after next.”
Reassuring that Super Value’s future remains bright regardless of what happens, Mr Roberts told Tribune Business: “People may be wondering what happens with Super Value. Debra Symonette is president of Super Value, has been running Super Value for the past five years, and it’s only been going from good to better. I’ve been working with my grand-daughter, Paige, on other types of investments which have been very successful.
“I don’t have any concerns with Debra running it. No concerns about the future in the food business. We are making big improvements in the warehouse. We have been operating the
warehouse in the Stone Age and are bring it up to the 21st century; modernising it, putting in new shelving, new systems. With that, we are going to double the size of the warehouse…
“We’ve been in an efficient warehouse system where they do 500 containers in and out a week. We’ve only been doing 250. We’re behind but we’re going to become more efficient.”
Thanking Bahamians for their outpouring of support, Mr Roberts added: “I’m certainly grateful for the staff and the public for their blood, their concerns, their prayers. I’m really on the road to recovery, and I’m so grateful for the staff and public donating blood and their concerns and prayers. We are so grateful for them.”
Ms Waugh added: “I read all the comments on Facebook. They are heart-warming. Everyone is so supportive at home.” Mr Roberts and his family thanked Dr Sands and Doctors Hospital staff, as well as their counterparts at the Mayo Clinic, for the quality of care received.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that KEVIN DUCENORD of General Delivery, Queen’s Highway, Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of MARCH, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that WARREN BROOKS of #44 Sunset Way, Sunshine Park, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that ERROL LAGUERRE of Pinder’s Point Freeport Grand Bahama, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23nd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that DEBORAH BROWN APPIAH of Fox Hill, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that LIVANEAU DORMEUS of Faith Gardens, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 23rd day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
Cost of living remains a ‘stubborn elephant’
of living, and we have very little control of costs.”
Mr Davis suggested that one policy lever under consideration is adjusting taxes imposed on imported fuels. While he did not outline specific measures or timelines, he said the Government would “try to minimise the impact” on citizens if oil prices rise materially.
“With the unrest in the Middle East, we expect, and it's projected, that oil prices might rise, and if that does, then we all we can do is try
to minimise the impact on our citizens by looking how we could either relieve it through the taxes that are now imposed on importation of fuels and/or giving relief in some other form of fashion,” said Mr Davis. Oil prices have already surged. Brent crude increased by 13 percent to around $82 a barrel when oil markets opened on Sunday night as airstrikes on Iran continued for a second day, taking prices to a seven-month high. There are growing fears that Iran will seek to chokeoff oil supplies through the narrow Strait of Hormuz
through which around 20 percent of global oil supply must pass. However, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) said on Sunday it would increase output by 206,000 barrels a day.
Bahamian businesses and consumers will likely feel the first impact through higher energy and transportation costs, with the price per gallon at the pump increasing. The timing and extent of any increase will depend on when current inventories are exhausted and when Bahamian wholesalers - Rubis, Esso and FOCOL - do their buying
terms of relevant industrial agreements.
and the prices they may lock-in.
The cost of imported goods will also be hit given oil’s importance at every stage of the supply chain, especially in shipping fuel, which could reignite domestic inflation and increased prices. And, if the Iran conflict persists for some time, Bahamian tourism could suffer negative fall-out if Americans become relucant to travel, have lower confidence and disposable incomes for vacations, and are turned off by higher ticket prices.
Global analysts have cautioned that any sustained
disruption to supply routes or production could place upward pressure on crude prices — a development with direct implications for The Bahamas’ import-dependent economy. Energy prices remain a key driver of inflation. Fuel is embedded in nearly every segment of the economy — from electricity generation and freight to retail distribution. However, Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) in December 2025 hedged two million barrels of oil at around $70 per barrel which could offer protection against oil price shocks.
A sustained spike in crude prices would likely place renewed upward pressure on inflation, which has moderated from postCOVID highs but remains sensitive to global commodity movements. Any reduction in fuel-related taxation would carry fiscal implications for the Government’s $75.5m Budget surplus target as well as, potentially, for the upcoming general election. Fuel duties and related levies contribute materially to Government revenue, and scaling them back — even temporarily — would narrow fiscal space at a time when the administration is focused on deficit reduction and debt management.
While reluctant to reveal how the union and its members will respond, although legal action via the court system remains a strong possibility, Mr Ferguson said “the first time” the BHMA discovered the Government did not agree with its figures was on the day payouts were due. He added that union members
were advised to “acknowledge receipt” of the cheque handed to them but not to sign-off on it being their final payment. However, Mr Ferguson was contradicted by a video announcement from Phylicia Woods-Hanna, the Government’s investments chief, who reassured that all payments complied with both the Employment Act’s legal stipulation and the
C.J. SPARROW ORIGINATION LTD (In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given in pursuance of Section 138 of The International Business Companies Act, 2000 (as amended) that the Sole Member of the above-named company by Resolution passed on the 3rd day of February 2026 resolved that the company be wound up voluntarily forthwith and that the Liquidator is Mr. Bennet R. Atkinson of Ronald Atkinson & Co., Chartered Accountants, Marron House, Virginia and Augusta Streets, P.O. Box N-8326, Nassau, Bahamas.
All persons having claims against the above-named company are requested to submit particulars of such claims and proofs thereof in writing to the Liquidator, Mr. Bennet R. Atkinson, Marron House, Virginia and Augusta Streets, P.O. Box N-8326, Nassau, Bahamas, not later than the 3rd day of April 2026, after which date the books will be closed and the assets of the company distributed. Dated the 26th day of February 2026.
Bennet R. Atkinson Liquidator
And the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA) director added that Howard Thompson, the director of labour, and Bernard Evans, the Government’s labour consultant, had met with Mr Ferguson to advise him what the “correct settlement” is for BHMA members.
Separately, well-placed Tribune Business sources described Friday’s Grand Luacayn severance payout process as “chaos” and a “disaster”. They said this was partly due to the Government’s failure to inform all workers in advance of the amounts they would be receiving and explain how these were calculated - something that would have helped to manage expectations and potentially resolve any disputes in advance.
This, they added, has been the normal and traditional process involving any mass redundancy situation such as the termination of 279 total Grand Lucayan staff. Further complications, it is understood, were caused by Ministry of Finance staff reviewing the amount each person was receiving on the morning payout was due to be made, while cheques were only released from 11am onwards because the funds were received late in Lucayan Renewal Holdings’ account.
“It was chaotic, very chaotic,” one source said. “There was a lot of staff who did not get their severance. They were out of time, and had to shut it down by 7.30pm that night, because some cheques weren’t ready.” Some Grand Lucayan department heads, meaning managers, also did not receive their severance because government representatives said they had to check the days in lieu and vacation benefits that had been applied. Those payouts are now due to take place tomorrow.
Mr Ferguson, whose general-secretary represented the BHMA at the Friday payments, told Tribune Business: “I’ve got some very bad reports. What was presented for members of the bargaining unit, they are very disappointed that the payments that were presented by them through the union, through the association, have not been complied with.
“The secretary-general of the union was offered $5,000. He has refused to accept the payment because, first of all, the payments are not in compliance with the law, the Employment Act. They are not paying according to the Employment Act, nor are they paying according to the expired industrial agreement. They are not paying according to either one.”
This was contradicted by Mrs Woods-Hanna, but
Mr Ferguson also asserted that Lucayan Renewal Holdings - while seemingly ignoring the BHMA’s own calculations on behalf of its members - had not complied with the 2017 Employment Act amendments that require employers to notify the minister of labour whenever a large-scale redundancy exercise involving more than 10-15 persons is about to occur.
“I’m waiting to get an actual print out of what they paid them on. They were not paid according to years of service,” Mr Ferguson told Tribune Business.
“It’s terrible. The workers are screaming down there. The cheques they received, we told them not to receive them as final cheques but acknowledge receipt of them. They have not been paid for six to seven weeks now, some of them, and even the ones who were paid were not paid correctly.
‘The workers are furious about the whole thing. It’s terrible. It’s absolutely terrible. It’s really ridiculous. They are really upset because they expected the matter to be resolved. It’s still outstanding, and I am very surprised we are going down this road. They asked me months ago to prepare the amounts due for each member of the bargaining unit. We complied with that and go no objections on what we proposed. We sent the proposal in in November and received no negative feedback.
“The first time we realised they [the Government] are not in agreement is the day of the payment. We have workers who have been working there for 29 years. It’s just ridiculous. We will not stop until they get paid and will do what we have to do.”
Mrs Woods-Hanna, in her recorded statement, said the Grand Lucayan redundancy exercise was completed on Friday - although that was contradicted by other sources. She added that retooling, access to job placement services and vacancies, and skills
training has been offered and provided to affected employees.
“This is an important step in preparing Grand Bahama for its next chapter of growth and restoring the property from the commercial redevelopment by Concord Wilshire and other new investors,” she said. “Because the welfare of our people is first priority, the Government has been working with the Department of Labour, union leaders and our partners in Grand Bahama to help those affected find new employment…
“We want to make clear that all redundancies of former employees are being carried out in accordance with the Employment Act and any applicable industrial agreement. They affected persons will receive all severance and contractual entitlements, including accrued benefits. The director of labour, Howard Thompson, and the labour consultant, Bernard Evans, met with the union president, Obie Ferguson, to advise of the correct settlements for union members.
“Our aim has been, and remains, to support workers through this transition and keep their talents contributing to the Bahamian economy. We have ensured each case was carefully reviewed and that no decision was taken lightly.” Mrs Woods-Hanna pledged that all employees will be treated “fairly and accurately”.
She added: “The restoration of the Grand Lucayan is a part of a wider effort to put the property on a sound footing, attract sustainable investment and create long-term jobs and business opportunities for the people of Grand Bahama. I want to assure residents that, while this moment may be difficult for some families, our focus remains firmly on unlocking the true potential of the island and securing a strong economic future for the residents of Grand Bahama.”
PwC executive spots chance to strengthen cyber security
EXECUTIVES with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Bahamas say the newly-passed Data Protection Act 2025, combined with The Bahamas National Cybersecurity Strategy, creates the opportunity to strengthen this nation’s digital crime defences.
Nestle Maullon, PwC Bahamas’ director of risk assurance, outlined what national cyber readiness means for The Bahamas when she appeared as a panellist at the second annual Aliv Business Cyber Security Summit. She highlighted the misalignment between regulatory expectations and real‐world cyber risk management, including cyber risk remaining siloed within information technology (IT). She also warned of potential dangers from Boards receiving technical updates instead of risk-related insights tied to financial exposure and operational continuity; low incident response maturity; and limited adoption of threat‐led testing.
Pointing to the challenges facing The Bahamas as it accelerates its digital transformation, Ms Maullon said: “Let us operationalise The Bahamas National Cybersecurity Strategy (NCS)
through aligning governance structures with the NCS principles, and engage proactively with National Computer Incident Response Team of The Bahamas (CIRT-BS) for reporting and intelligence sharing.”
Event attendees included government leaders and regulators, cyber security officials, industry executives and technology and digital risk specialists, who examined the rapidly-evolving cyber threat landscape.
Myra Lundy-Mortimer, PwC Bahamas’ risk assurance leader, said: “Cyber resilience must be a top priority for leaders. The organisations that will flourish are those that invest in secure, compliant and trusted digital ecosystems. PwC remains deeply committed to supporting organisations as they strengthen their cyber capabilities and build confidence in the digital future.”
PwC, in its 2026 global digital trust insights survey, found 78 percent of organisations plan to increase their cyber security budgets. Yet only 6 percent consider themselves “very capable” of withstanding sophisticated cyber attacks, underscoring the widening resilience gap. At the Aliv summit, PwC detailed several priorities it believes are critical to national and company readiness. These included leveraging the national cyber security framework to foster collaboration; strengthening cyber governance and accountability at the leadership level; fostering cross-sector collaboration to combat emerging risks; co-ordinating national cyber‐defence efforts under the Data Protection Act 2025 and the NCS; and advancing national cyber resilience through closer CIRT‐BS collaboration.
NESTLE MAULLON MYRA LUNDY-MORTIMER
PWC BAHAMAS PARTNERS WITH DIRECTOR NESTLE MAULLON
BPL connectivity to slash generator and gas costs
Boy’s Conch stand, located on Potter’s Cay, said: “We’ve been waiting on this like I say, a very, very long time. We need to get off these generators and stuff. You know, we buying a lot of ice, a lot of gas, using a lot of gas on a daily basis, and we will be able to get rid of these fumes from around here. We are grateful that we have, you know, a minister now who is standing up for the Bahamian people and doing the right thing.”
Tavon Moss, BPL’s technical assistant, said stall owners will be limited to seven KVA worth of power, adding that the utility will
“rectify our existing substation building with a bigger transformer, switch gear, etc, to make sure that each person has ample supply and that we have spare capacity for the future”.
Ms Bowe is also continuing her fight for more restroom facilities on Potter’s Cay Dock. She is advocating for every stall to have a powder room because the one restroom on the grounds is too far and inadequate for the amount of stalls and patrons that now fill the area.
She said the Ministry of Environment is also advocating for it, adding that some meetings have taken place. However, she said
Share your news
The Tribune wants to hear from people who are making news in their neighbourhoods. Perhaps you are raising funds for a good cause, campaigning for improvements in the area or have won an award. If so, call us on 322-1986 and share your story.
“some persons need to just stay in their lane, because they’re not engineers and they’re not architects”.
Ms Bowe said: “I’ve got the the ear of some persons and, again, some persons need to just stay in their lane because they’re not engineers and they’re not architects. So once I continue advocating it, somebody will say, ‘You know something, this makes sense.’ If you look along the sidewalk, we have a sidewalk. The Broadway that leads from the parking lot, it starts from McKenzie and it ends to the last stall on the western side, and it’s also on the eastern side.
“And so if they continue that broadwalk, we would have the existing sidewalk, and persons would be able to make extensions and put in a powder room. We have the sewer plant just west of the western stalls, and then we have sewer sinks along Potter’s Cay down in the back there by the police station. And they could also run the pipes out to the main Bay Street. There’s nothing hard about it. It’s just for them to get to the table and make it happen.”
