The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

MINISTER for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville said he is aware of the faulty air-conditioning system at the Treasure Bay Casino and that the concerns of workers “are being looked at.”

“I understand that there is an issue with the a/c, and I enquired and the issue is being looked at. The concerns of workers are very important to the government and we are taking it seriously,” he said.

Casino workers say the air-conditioning system has not been working properly for the past two years, making working conditions unbearable, especially during hot days.

They claim that workers have experienced health issues, including heat exhaustion, chest pains, coughing, exposure to cigarette smoke, mould, and water leaks in the ceiling.

According to an article in the Freeport News, a supervisor claimed that employees are under “considerable duress.” He also claimed that workers are being told that they are lucky to have a job whenever they voice their concerns to management.

The supervisor said that guests and visitors have also complained about the excessive heat, even though floor fans are placed throughout the building.

It is unclear which entity is responsible for repairs to the system, whether Hutchison who is leasing the building, or the casino operators who are tenants.

Ben Davis, general manager of Grand Lucayan Resort, was off the island and could not be reached. No one could be reached at Treasure Bay for comment.

“What we need to do is try to find out additional details and we here at the ministry and the relevant authorities will look into it; we are aware of it,” Minister Darville added.

“It is important that the workers in our country be protected and I am certain that after we have the necessary meeting, and the relevant ministers have an opportunity to look in greater details into what is happening, the workers will be addressed.”