The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net FREEPORT - Outlining his plans for change, FNM candidate for East Grand Bahama Peter Turnquest opened his constituency office on Saturday before an excited crowd of supporters. Although Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham could not attend the Grand Bahama rally, FNMs in Freeport watched a live stream of his address given in Central and South Eleuthera on a huge screen. Mr Turnquest told supporters: "I have heard the cry for jobs, economic opportunity, vision, and leadership. I have come to put my shoulder to the wheel to do my part to advance the economy on this island." The candidate said a new high school and a proper fire station are at the top of his agenda for East Grand Bahama. He also plans to convert the primary school at High Rock into a high school with a gymnasium open to all students in the east. Mr Turnquest said he aims to establish e-classrooms at Sweeting's Cay, so high school students will not have to travel for two hours to get to class. A chartered accountant for 27 years and former president of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, Mr Turnquest is a recognised spokesperson for the island's business sector. Mr Turnquest, who once helped create a sustainable development model for the entire island, said he believes the potential exists for a sand mining industry in East Grand Bahama. In addition to the revenue generated, he pointed out that sand mining between Grand Bahama and Sweeting's Cay would make it easier for ferryboats and other vessels to cross the channel at low tide. According to Mr Turnquest, the FNM will approve the layout for a new subdivision in Sweeting's Cay, and build better roads there. In McClean's Town, the party will ensure the dock is disability-friendly and re-establish the fish market. Mr Turnquest said East End residents will soon have access to potable running water. "The assessments have already been done and we are waiting on quotations to have that water done," he said. The candidate said his plans also include the establishment of a number of community centres and recreation areas.