Bahamas government proposes new governance framework for Grand Bahama

Prime Minister Philip Davis has announced a plan to establish a single, accountable governance framework for Grand Bahama to replace the current divided system of public governance. The proposal aims to unify administration and regulation across the entire island, including the Freeport Port Area, to ensure consistency for residents, businesses, and investors.

The government has published a Green Paper titled ‘Grand Bahama: A Framework for Stability and Growth,’ which outlines the transition. Key proposals include the creation of a government-led Grand Bahama Development Council to coordinate island-wide development and a comprehensive review of the existing Hawksbill Creek Agreement. A six-month public consultation period is scheduled to begin on November 1.

The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) responded to the announcement, stating they require time to review the proposals which were not shared with them prior to the address. While welcoming the opportunity for constructive engagement, the GBPA emphasized that the rights held by the Port Authority and its licensees under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement must be respected and that any changes should be approached through agreement to avoid creating uncertainty for investors.