By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Business Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
Prime Minister Perry Christie yesterday promised that the Government would “make every effort” to revive Bahamian-driven investment projects on Exuma, adding that locals needed to keep pace if they were to exploit foreign direct investment (FDI).
“There is lot of land to be possessed and a lot of economic activity to be claimed; a lot of activities for those prepared to pioneer, innovate and sacrifice,” said Mr Christie.
“We realise that local development has to follow resort and hotel development to take full advantage of GDP growth. These initiatives must be private sector-led by Exumians.”
Mr Christie added: “We have a number of Exumians who have applied to the Government for the continuation of developments that have been taking a long time, some of them with wonderful plans. We will make every effort to cause them to continue.”
Mr Christie said the Sandals Emerald Bay resort has continued to play a major role in Exuma’s tourism sector and overall economy.
He added that Sandals has invested $137 million in Exuma since 2010, and is getting set to invest an additional $6 million in new amenities and renovations at Emerald Bay.
Mr Christie also said the Government is taking steps to ensure that Exuma has an airport consistent with the level of development taking place there.
He said that as a tourism destination, Exuma continues to demonstrate strong gains in tourism arrivals, product enhancement and visitor satisfaction.
“This time last year Exuma’s tourism sector had recorded a 15 per cent growth in arrivals over 2013, with 5 per cent growth in hotel occupancies and 15 per cent room revenue,” the Prime Minister said.
“I am pleased to see that Exuma continues to do well, having recorded a 16 per cent increase in air and sea arrivals this month over last year this time.”
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