The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – Minister of Labour and National Insurance Shane Gibson announced that government will introduce several initiatives in the coming months aimed at creating new employment opportunities for Grand Bahamians.

Mr Gibson said the outlook for Grand Bahama is a “positive one” and the improvement is becoming evident during the last quarter of 2013.

“I have confidence that it will continue throughout 2014, resulting in new job opportunities and developments which will improve the socio-economic development for all Grand Bahamians,” he said.

Mr Gibson said plans are underway for the official launch of the National Training Agency in Grand Bahama.

He said government expects to commence discussions shortly with a major industrial player in Freeport to provide training for Bahamians through the agency.

The agency, he said, will help develop skills that meet the demands of new economic opportunities that will come on stream.

The National Training Agency was launched in August in New Providence.

Mr Gibson said the NTA is supported by a public/private partnership which ensures that training is relevant to the jobs available.

The minister commended the Hutchison Group of Companies for its significant investment in and contribution to the development of Grand Bahama.

Mr Gibson was the keynote speaker at a Long Service Awards Ceremony held on Monday for employees of the Freeport Container Port, Freeport Harbour Company, Grand Bahama Airport Company and the Grand Lucayan Resort.

More than 50 employees were recognised for their many years of service.

Mr Gibson noted that Hutchison has invested $300 million in port development in Freeport and $700 million in the hotel development in Grand Bahama.

“The government of the Bahamas looks forward to continuing to partner with your organisation as we focus on re-energising the economy of GB,” he said.

He commended employees for their commitment and exemplary work over the years.

Mr Gibson encouraged employees to continue to find ways to become more relevant and remain on the cutting edge.

“Technology is progressing rapidly and new careers are developing every day,” he said.

“I urge you to challenge yourselves to do more. Your company is an international one with plans of expansion.”

Godfrey Smith, chief executive officer of the Freeport Harbour Company, Freeport Container Port, and Grand Bahama Airport Company, congratulated all the honourees.

He extended special thanks to long serving employee Phil Carey, director of the GB Airport Company, for 43 years of service at the airport.

Mr Carey will retire the end of December.