The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive has reassured that “progress is being made” on reopening the Bahamian economy despite the outcry over restrictions being left in place on some Family Islands.

Jeffrey Beckles acknowledged that more work is needed on some islands after the prime minister permitted full commercial activity to resume on just Abaco, Cat Island, Andros and Long island, in addition to those previously reopened in the southern Bahamas.

“Progress is being made,” he said. “We are very happy to see that the Family Islands are going to be able to resume their commerce and trade. That is always exciting. We know that there is much more work to be done for some of the other islands but, again, good progress being made.”

The chamber chief executive also pointed to the extra day that hardware and home stores can open in-store, and the go-ahead for manufacturers of hurricane-resistant products such as windows to resume, as signs that the Bahamian economy is slowly freeing up.

“We are also very happy to see those entities that cater to the hurricane preparatory efforts, which are critical right now, especially in a post-Dorian era,” Mr Beckles added. “We want to be able to make sure that homes and businesses have the ability to really get their physical plants and properties protected, and so we are very happy about that as well as the hardware store extension.

“By extension, more and more companies are being allowed to operate, which is a very positive thing, but we do know there is a lot of work ahead. We are also happy to see that there is consideration for some of the smaller entities getting back on their feet and operational, and then the announcement of the July 1 opportunity to receive guests again to the country.

“Obviously we support a very careful and very considered approach to that, so that is good news. That means that people will get to return to work, and support businesses will be able to provide their services again. So overall we’re happy to see that progress is being made. We do know there is much more work that is needed to be done and we’re up to the task,” he continued.

“The chamber is very excited about the progress that is being made, and we will continue to work feverishly with all of the stakeholders to make sure that we get through this safely in the shortest possible space of time, while protecting the health which is the real wealth of our country for Bahamians and those that visit our shores.”