The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FNM National Movement leader Michael Pintard said an FNM government would remove VAT from essential goods and services, framing the pledge as central to easing a cost-of-living squeeze he said has worsened under the Progressive Liberal Party.

Addressing supporters at the City of Lights during the party’s Grand Bahama slate launch on Friday, Mr Pintard said residents faced rising prices, high electricity bills and increasing reliance on food assistance.

“Some of you have never once before this period asked for any food assistance, but today things are tough for so many people,” he said.

He said VAT would be eliminated on items such as baby products, feminine hygiene products and key healthcare services, part of a broader effort to reduce household expenses alongside tackling utility costs.

Mr Pintard criticised recent government announcements on Grand Bahama, saying they lacked substance and failed to address the island’s economic challenges.

“The government has no real plans for this island,” he said.

“You've heard the prime minister on multiple occasions recently coming to Grand Bahama, but you have not heard him lay out a plan that can transform our lives,” he said.

He pointed to the government’s memorandum of understanding to acquire EMERA’s shares in the Grand Bahama Power Company, describing the move as politically motivated.

Beyond tax relief, Mr Pintard said the party would prioritise reducing the country’s nearly $1bn food import bill through expanded domestic production, revive manufacturing, support small businesses and grow eco-tourism and heritage tourism in West and East Grand Bahama.

He also pledged to modernise Freeport’s infrastructure, address unpaved roads, water access and basic services, and demand greater accountability from developers and the Grand Bahama Port Authority.

Nationally, he said an FNM administration would pursue a large-scale housing programme over five years, strengthen public healthcare by better equipping facilities and staffing them adequately, and emphasise transparency and competitive bidding in government contracts.

Mr Pintard predicted the party would win all five Grand Bahama constituencies and introduced candidates including Dr Charlene Reid in Pineridge, Omar Isaacs in West Grand Bahama, Frazette Gibson in Central Grand Bahama and Kwasi Thompson in East Grand Bahama.

Dr Reid said residents were ready for change and called for improved healthcare, stronger schools and accountability in public service.

Mr Isaacs said West Grand Bahama remained neglected despite being the country’s largest settlement, noting the absence of a bank, major supermarket and fish market, and promised equitable development.

Ms Gibson said residents were disappointed with unfulfilled promises including a new airport, hospital upgrades and improved schools.

Mr Thompson criticised the government over scandals and spending and urged voters to consider what he called a historic opportunity.

“Grand Bahama has an opportunity to elect a prime minister that is from Grand Bahama. Someone who knows your struggles, he understands the island. He has the passion and now will have the capability to fix it,” he said.