The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) chairman yesterday said the private sector continued to be concerned over high crime levels, noting that this was “stifling” entrepreneurship through increased security costs.

Responding to questions by Tribune Business, Chester Cooper said: “The Chamber is concerned about the level of crime and lawlessness in our society generally, especially crimes against persons.

“Our members are generally concerned about crime, and fearful because of the level of crime. We urge all Bahamians and residents to play their role in working with the police in reducing and solving crime, understanding the impact of crime not only tourism and commerce, but on the very quality of life that we have grown to love in the Bahamas.”

Mr Cooper added: “The fear of crime stifles entrepreneurship in some respects. Firstly, it increases the costs of doing business by having to employ a myriad of surveillance and protective measures for our properties, staff and customs.

“Secondly, it is well-documented that many would-be business persons avoid business that have heavy cash transactions.

“Thirdly, because of the fear of crime many persons are not moving about as frequently as before, especially to restaurants and clubs at night, and many areas of the island that are believed to be high-risk. No doubt the increase in costs as a result of crime is passed on directly to the consumers. There are no winners.”

The BCCEC chairman said the Chamber decried the recent murder of an American visitor, as it has with the past 39 murders this year. Chicago native Kyle Brauner was shot in the neck while reportedly trying to thwart a robbery attempt early Sunday morning. Reports on the shooting death have been carried by several US-based media outlets.