Bahamas News
Small business license fees in the Grand Bahama Port Area may soon change
#Bahamas, January 30, 2018 – Grand Bahama – Small business license fees may soon fall in line with the rest of The Bahamas, said Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson on Friday. Minister Thompson was addressing the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Annual Installation of Officers and Directors 2017-2018.
Former GB Chamber President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest, installed the new officers. Minister Thompson apologized for the absence of the Prime Minister, who was in Andros for the National Memorial Service for the plane crash victims. As the government believes in reform, modernization and transformation, soon after coming to office, an Ease of Doing Business Committee was appointed. They have made recommendations which are being reviewed and carried out.
“I commend the Deputy Prime Minister and his team for the improvements already made. It should also be noted that we intend for the changes to also apply to Freeport. As an example discussions have begun with the Grand Bahama Port Authority to express the Government’s desire to bring business license fees for very small businesses on the same level as the government’s fee, which is $100. It doesn’t seem right that a person wanting to start this type of business in the Port area has to pay sometimes 10 times as much than everyone else in the rest of The Bahamas. In addition we continue to work out arrangements for the One Stop Shop for Investment in Freeport.
“Small-and-medium sized Bahamian businesses are a critical part of our economy. These businesses employ thousands of Bahamians. They are critical for economic growth.
“To promote the ease of doing business for such enterprises, at the end of last year, after consultation with the Central Bank, the Government announced the relaxation of Exchange Controls on capital transactions, namely on capital (investment) and current account (trade) transactions.
“This was a reform long overdue. These changes come into effect as of 1 February 2018. Without prior reference to the Central Bank, Bahamian-owned businesses will be allowed to maintain operating deposit accounts with up to $100,000 in foreign currency at domestic commercial banks.
“These accounts will have to be funded exclusively from revenues earned in foreign currency. Central Bank approval will continue to be required for accounts with balances of more than $100,000 in foreign currency.”
Minister Thompson outlined another reform whereby upon application to the Central Bank, Bahamians and residents will be able to have foreign currency denominated deposits or investment assets outside of The Bahamas, or bring it back to the country and it remain in the same foreign currency.
“No penalties will be imposed on regularized accounts and investments. The owners of deposit facilities will be allowed to use the resources to finance domestic transactions, without restriction.
“Prohibitions will exist against either funding or augmenting these facilities with proceeds converted from Bahamian dollars.” He further stated, “Last year we passed the Commercial Enterprise Act, which promises enormous benefits to our economy.
“The intent of this Act is to offer incentives to Bahamian and international investors who establish businesses in the Bahamas, which will help to diversify the economy, and to create higher paying jobs and long-term job securit“Under this legislation, investors in captive insurance, reinsurance, arbitration, wealth management, computer programming, maritime trade, nanotechnology, biomedical industries, data storage, call centers, software design and writing will be given a number of concessions and incentives.
“Another reform that has already been announced is the creation of an independent board to review applications for work permits and citizenship. This will allow for less interference and more openness in the process of obtaining citizenship.”
The Minister said revitalizing Grand Bahama has been a priority of the government since the General Election in May, 2017, and stating that there is a long way to go, he added that the road to recovery has begun.
“To boost growth and employment we must stimulate domestic and foreign investment, as well as opportunities for large-scale and small- and medium-sized businesses.”
Listing some of the things done in an attempt to boost the local economy, Minister Thompson said the government negotiated the completion of a Letter of Intent on the sale of the Grand Lucayan Hotel, and is currently working diligently to complete the sale of the Grand Lucayan and Memories property.
“After they are reopened, the economy of Grand Bahama will improve significantly, including with a tremendous increase in employment and related business and economic opportunities.
“We also successfully negotiated with Bahamas Paradise on the return of the Grand Celebration, and the introduction of a new vessel, the Grand Classica, which will bring additional stopover visitors and more opportunities to Grand Bahama in April. We learned the painful effects of not having the Celebration vessel for a few months and therefore looking forward to the increased benefits of having both vessels.
“In conjunction with Ministry of Tourism, and our Minister of Finance DPM we also negotiated an airlift agreement with Sunwing, and now have the return of Vacation Express. It has been announced that a total of eight non-stop flights departing from various US cities, will begin their flight schedules in May 2018.”
Scheduled to begin in May are flights from Detroit, Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Newark, Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Dallas. These will be operated by Swift Air LLC., and the Ministry of Tourism projects a potential 16,800 passengers. Additionally, negotiations ongoing with the “Ginn Property” in West End, along with a new investment in East End involving an oil refinery. This announcement, said the Minister, will be made at the appropriate time.
Going over the advancements made in the area of technology, Minister Thompson told Chamber members that a Grand Bahama Technology Hub Steering Committee has been formed to establish Grand Bahama as a technology hub. Carnival Corporation is already assembling their Ocean Medallion Concierge System, and Grand Bahamians have been hired and are being trained.
“The Bahamas is also currently developing programs for block chain-based solutions, fin-tech and crypto-currency companies, and we intend to promote block chain as a sub-industry within ICT.”
Touting joint efforts between the government and the Chamber, Minister Thompson acknowledged the government’s summer job program where some 500 young people were placed in local businesses. There was also the Business to Business Initiative which began on September 28, 2017 designed to provide business opportunities to budding entrepreneurs.
“The initiative exposed existing entrepreneurs and small businesses to opportunities which exist already at the larger industrial companies. The first to participate were the Grand Bahama Shipyard and Buckeye. We intend to continue this initiative with other major companies.
“The Apiary Project began on 24 October which will help 30 young people to enter the honey production business here in Grand Bahama. These young people began training on the 2nd January 2018.
Each participant will receive a stipend during a 14-week training program, and will have access to funding and mentorship from Bahamas Development Bank.
“We look forward to your partnership with the our office and Deputy Prime Minister, Port Authority and the University of the Bahamas for the launch of the Small Business Development Center, which would provide support and research resources for entrepreneurs. We have also been most grateful for your support in our GB Micro and Small Business Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurial Incentive Program launched last year.”
Minister Thompson said they will be calling on the business community once again on February 17th at the Ministry of Labour Job fair, where he hopes they will not only participate, but hire as many people as possible.
In closing, the Minister said, “The Chamber continues to be a great partner and [I] look forward to an even closer relationship. We have a talented creative and vibrant private sector. I believe you have what we need to reignite Grand Bahama’s economy. Within you lies the talent, ability, resources, and capacity we need for success. We as a government must create the environment that will motivate you to expand, invest and progress.
“I encourage you to seriously look at reinvesting, renovating, expanding, reshaping, re-tooling, and rehiring. Fixing Grand Bahama will not be easy or quick but I believe we all have what it takes and I stress, we all.”
By: Robyn Adderley
Photo caption: Senator the Hon. Kwasi Thompson.
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
The Rick Fox Political Timeline
“Are You Thinking About Politics?”
Fox publicly acknowledged growing calls for him to enter Bahamian politics, saying he had been hearing from women, youth, business owners and everyday Bahamians who were “ready for something different.”
October 19, 2025
“Then Jump, Man.”
Fox revealed a conversation with NBA legend Michael Jordan, who encouraged him to enter politics after asking whether he believed he could help young Bahamians.
November 24, 2025
“The Bahamas Must Be First”
Fox officially announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election, promising transparency, affordability, opportunity and a modern Bahamian economy.
February 4, 2026
“Officially Picked”
The Free National Movement formally ratified Fox as its candidate for Garden Hills, instantly making him one of the most talked-about figures in the election cycle.
March 20, 2026
“From Courtside to Campaign Stage”
Fox mounted the national campaign stage for the first time at the FNM’s major campaign launch at Baha Mar Resort in Nassau.
March 30, 2026
“I’m Giving The Salary Back”
Fox announced he would not take a parliamentary salary if elected, saying the funds should instead go back into helping the people of
Garden Hills.
April 14, 2026
“Nomination Eve Goes Viral”
A heated confrontation involving Fox and PLP supporters outside the Parliamentary Registration Department exploded across social media after video captured the tense exchange.
April 16, 2026
“Pick Rick” Officially Launches
Nomination Day cemented Fox’s candidacy and formally launched the now-famous “Pick Rick” campaign branding.
April 19, 2026
“Vote and Win”
Jamiah Burrows won a vehicle through Fox’s civic participation challenge, part of a campaign effort encouraging voter engagement and turnout.
April 20, 2026
“The Wealthiest Candidate”
Financial disclosures revealed Fox as the wealthiest candidate in the 2026 election cycle, with reported assets exceeding $469 million, ending speculation about his financial standing.
April 25, 2026
“The Garden Hills Blueprint”
Fox unveiled detailed policy graphics outlining plans for:
- youth development,
- healthcare access,
- infrastructure upgrades,
- environmental restoration,
- entrepreneurship,
- and a proposed $10 million investment fund for Garden Hills.
May 4, 2026
“The Numbers Don’t Lie”
Fox’s campaign highlighted more than:
- 20 community clean-ups,
- 16 streets and locations served,
- and 13 solar lights installed across Garden Hills during the campaign.
May 6, 2026
“Shaq Steps In”
NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal publicly endorsed Fox, helping elevate international attention surrounding the campaign.
May 8, 2026
“Buju Backs Rick”
Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton threw his support behind Fox ahead of Election Day.
May 10, 2026
“Vanessa Williams Endorses”
Fox’s former wife, actress and singer Vanessa Williams publicly endorsed his campaign.
May 11, 2026
“Magic Joins the Campaign”
NBA icon Magic Johnson became the latest major celebrity to endorse Fox just one day before Bahamians went to the polls.
May 12, 2026
“Election Day”
Fox contested the Garden Hills constituency seat against PLP incumbent Mario Bowleg in one of the country’s most closely watched races.
May 13, 2026
“Grace in Defeat”
Fox publicly conceded the race and congratulated Bowleg on his victory in Garden Hills.
May 18, 2026
“We Pick Rick”
Despite losing at the polls, Fox officially entered Parliament after being appointed to the Senate by the FNM — with the party itself declaring:
“We Pick Rick.”
The appointment made Fox one of the most internationally recognized figures ever to serve in the Bahamian Senate.
Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.
Bahamas News
First Woman to Lead Tourism Ministry: Glenys Hanna-Martin Takes On Bahamas’ Leading Industry
The Bahamas, May 22, 2026 – Veteran parliamentarian Glenys Hanna-Martin has made history, becoming the first woman to lead the Ministry of Tourism in The Bahamas — assuming responsibility for the country’s most important economic engine 62 years after tourism first gained Cabinet-level representation.
Tourism received its first Cabinet minister on January 7, 1964, when Sir Stafford Sands was appointed Minister of Finance and Tourism,
helping shape what would become the dominant pillar of the Bahamian economy.
Now, six decades later, Hanna-Martin steps into the role as the nation’s first female Tourism Minister.
The longtime Englerston Member of Parliament moves into the powerful portfolio following years overseeing education and after building one of the most enduring political careers in modern Bahamian history.
Hanna-Martin is widely regarded as the country’s longest-serving female MP, having represented Englerston continuously since 2002.
Her appointment comes at a critical moment for the tourism sector, which continues to drive employment, foreign exchange earnings, hotel development, cruise expansion and airlift growth across the archipelago.
The scale of the industry she now oversees is staggering.
According to tourism and government data, The Bahamas welcomed a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025, including roughly 10.8 million cruise passengers and 1.7 million air arrivals.
Tourism is estimated to generate roughly 70 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product and employs more than half of the Bahamian workforce either directly or indirectly.
The industry also continues to fuel massive hotel and resort expansion projects across Nassau, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, while
helping sustain airlift partnerships, cruise port investments and vacation rental growth.
The Ministry of Tourism is widely viewed as one of the most influential assignments in any Bahamian Cabinet because of its direct connection to the nation’s economic stability and international image.
And while regional competition intensifies across the Caribbean, The Bahamas remains one of the world’s most recognized island tourism brands.
Hanna-Martin now inherits responsibility for protecting and expanding that position.
Her political career has already included several barrier-breaking milestones, including becoming the first female chairman of a major political party in The Bahamas and the first female Minister of Transport and Aviation.
Now, she adds another first to her legacy.
For many observers, the significance of the moment extends well beyond symbolism.
Tourism is not simply another ministry.
It is the heartbeat of the Bahamian economy.
Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.
Bahamas News
“Politician-1” Frenzy Intensifies After Plane Crash Survivor Allegedly Misses US Court Appearance
The Bahamas, May 22, 2026 – Questions and speculation intensified across The Bahamas Thursday night after Eyewitness News reported that Jonathan Eric Gardiner — the Election Day plane crash survivor now accused in a major international cocaine trafficking conspiracy — was allegedly a no-show for a scheduled US court appearance.
The latest development adds yet another dramatic twist to a case that has already pushed the country into political and social fever pitch.
Gardiner first appeared in federal court in Orlando on May 15 following his arrest on a New York federal warrant tied to a DEA investigation into alleged cocaine trafficking operations running through The Bahamas into the United States.
But the case exploded nationally after US federal affidavits repeatedly referenced an unnamed Bahamian political figure identified only as: “Politician-1.”
The filings allege meetings connected to a proposed cocaine shipment and references to political protection for trafficking operations.
No politician has been publicly identified by US prosecutors.
Still, the mystery has consumed the Bahamian public.
Talk shows, social media timelines, Parliament corridors and street corners have erupted with demands for answers, including headlines declaring: “TELL US WHO IS POLITICIAN 1.”
Public speculation has centered heavily around West End MP Kingsley Smith, who has denied any involvement in drug trafficking or cartel activity.
The controversy became so intense this week that Smith was reportedly heckled inside Parliament while taking his official oath of office.
Adding to the surreal nature of the case are reports carried by The Tribune that some passengers aboard the doomed flight were ordinary Bahamians trying to return home to vote after missing another flight connection on Election Day.
What began as a dramatic survival story involving 11 rescued passengers floating in waters off Florida has now transformed into a sprawling scandal involving alleged drug trafficking, political intrigue, DEA affidavits and mounting national anxiety.
The Tribune has also reported alleged links between Gardiner and construction-related business dealings, while US court documents reportedly describe cash-filled envelopes labeled for “Politician-1” in language investigators viewed as consistent with narcotics payment structures.
For many Bahamians, the story now feels almost unbelievable: an Election Day plane crash, an accused drug kingpin, references to Parliament, public outrage and now questions surrounding an alleged missed US court appearance.
And with official answers still limited, the fever surrounding “Politician-1” appears only to be growing.
Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.
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