Bahamas prime minister predicts major economic growth for Eleuthera

The Bahamas government predicting that Eleuthera is “on a course headed for major economic growth” Friday said it would continue to encourage public-private partnerships and significant investments from locals as well as foreigners for the island.  Prime Minister Perry Christie addressing the Eleuthera Business Outlook said tourism is on the upswing on the island and that last year, a total of 249,017 visitors came to Eleuthera.

“However I feel that we can improve on this number and will improve on it with the development of a few new resorts on the island,” he said, noting that the theme of the Business Outlook conference, “Charting the Course for Growth in Eleuthera in 2014”,  is focusing on the need for a plan that will steer Eleuthera towards economic success and growth.

Christie said that the Cotton Bay development in South Eleuthera is set to change the face of tourism in that part of the island significantly. He said the developers have already pumped in US$90 million into the project with 75 percent of the first phase completed.

He also said, “The resort aims to re-establish the legacy of the jet-setting families of the 50s, 60s and 70s that frequented the club community, making them homes away from home.  Cotton Bay will feature world-class golf courses that will attract golf enthusiasts from the world over.  It will offer luxurious amenities, including two oceanfront hotel sites managed by Noble House Hotels and Resorts.”

Christie said to continue to enhance tourism on the island and support the Cotton Bay development, particular attention will be given to airlift in South Eleuthera.  He then added,   “We are well advanced in our negotiations with the Samiento and Four Seasons interests for a Four Seasons branded luxury resort also here in South Eleuthera.  My professional advisors will meet again next week with Four Seasons representatives with a view to wrapping up the terms of a Heads of Agreement for approval by the National Economic Council.”

Prime Minister said while the tourism sector is set improve there are other developments and changes that will and must happen to ensure growth in Eleuthera.  He said the building of a new hospital in Palmetto Point will go a long way in serving and supporting the immediate community and populations for the whole Island.

He indicated, “While we work towards an economic renaissance in Eleuthera, we must remember that the pineapple is the symbol of hospitality throughout the world.  As a significant part of engaging the hospitality community in the revitalization of Eleuthera, the Government’s National Training Program is gearing up to train locals.”

He then added, “This program will help to facilitate the education and skills development of the workforce with extensive training initiatives and standardization of service levels.  Upon successful completion, persons will be provided with valid certification.” Furthermore, Christie concluded, “With help from the government, public private partnerships and significant investment from both Bahamians and foreigners, this island is on a course headed for major economic growth. For this growth we require the cooperation of the entire Eleutheran community to stay the course.”

Source: Caribbean360