August 5th, 2024
“It is extremely curious that while the PLP has quickly provided figures about
the redevelopment of Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma, particularly a six-
month timeline for reopening, the resort has not publicly confirmed any of
this. In fact, in all of Sandals’ statements to the international media, no
timeline has been provided. Reliable sources suggest that there has yet to
be an official reopening timeline, and the application and permitting process
for the resort’s redevelopment into a Beaches Resort has not even started.
We know that the PLP will always look for opportunities to place a public
relations spin on difficult realities for political gain. However, we remind
them that more than 400 people work at the sandals resort in Exuma. Four
hundred families rely on the property to sustain them. This is real life – it is
not a matter to be playing around with. The Deputy Prime Minister, who is
also the Minister of Tourism and the MP for Exuma, has cited this six-month
timeline. As far as we can see, he is the only source for this claim.
Can the DPM confirm that the figures and timelines he has shared are
indeed verified by Sandals? If not, where did he pull these numbers from,
like a rabbit from a hat in a magic show?
Can the DPM confirm whether Delta will soon reduce the airlift to Exuma in
light of the revelations of the proposed closure?
Can the Minister of Finance comment on how the closure will affect the
government’s attempt to collect the $30 million it claims the hotel owes but
which the hotel vehemently denies?
Michael Pintard
Leader
Free National Movement