The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

IN the wake of complaints and concerns following the death of a cook last week, Michelle Malcolm, Director of Public Affairs at Resorts World Bimini, says the health and welfare of the resort’s employees are of “paramount importance”.

Last Thursday, Jackson Ellis, a cook at the resort’s Sabor Restaurant, collapsed on the job and later died at the government clinic. Employees also reported that two other workers were taken ill and fainted on Friday and a third on Saturday.

In a statement issued this week, Ms Malcolm said the resort is deeply saddened by the sudden passing and loss of Mr Ellis, “a beloved team member”.

Since the death, concerned workers complained that there is no permanent doctor or proper medical facilities on the island to provide medical care and check-ups, and people would have to fly to Grand Bahama and New Providence to see a doctor when a medical issue arises. A doctor comes to the island on a rotation basis, so there are times when there is no doctor at the clinic.

Ms Malcolm said: “RWB considers the health and welfare of our employees to be of paramount importance, and as such has established a critical first responder unit comprising of a Health and Safety Officer and his team who man a resort ambulance on property and respond to medical emergencies at a moment’s notice.”

Additionally, she noted that RWB frequently partners with health care practitioners and organisations to provide employees with health and wellness screenings on property.

Workers also claimed that the resort does not provide medical insurance for line staff, and that they are left paying high costs to see doctors in Freeport and New Providence.