The Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Progressive Liberal Party’s Darron Pickstock vowed yesterday to listen, be present and work harder than “anyone has ever worked” as he was officially sworn in as the new member of Parliament for Golden Isles.

Mr Pickstock was surrounded by an entourage of friends, family, and supporters who witnessed his inaugural address in the House of Assembly.

His election to office follows last month’s by-election where he defeated the FNM’s Brian Brown and two others.

In his speech, he reflected on his upbringing and the work ethic that shaped him, recalling how he began by bussing and cleaning tables before becoming a businessman and an attorney, experiences he said helped mould him into the man he is today.

Prime Minister Philip Davis commended him, acknowledging that although his path to office was not easy, still “he overcame.”

He described his journey as a “Bahamian story,” adding: “It’s not how you start, it’s how you end.”

Mr Pickstock thanked Mr Davis for his confidence and guidance while also expressing gratitude to the people of Golden Isles for their support.

He acknowledged public frustration that progress may not be happening as quickly as desired but said the government is taking decisive action to build resilience for the future.

“The governing party asked the people of Golden Isles to give us a chance, to keep moving the needle forward,” he said. “We did not ask them to pretend that everything is fine. We asked them to look honestly at the record of the Davis administration, to look at the direction of the opportunity and the country, and then give us a chance. They agreed, and I feel the weight of that decision.”

He said he believes in a Bahamas where opportunity exists for all, where doors open for those prepared to work, and where the government serves as a partner in progress rather than a barrier.

He also highlighted his ten-point plan for Golden Isles, centred on improved infrastructure, safer spaces for families, and expanded opportunities, pledging to work until these goals are achieved.

“I will be a man of my word. I will work hard for Golden Isles, harder than anyone has ever worked. I will be present, I will listen, and I will act,” he said.

He told residents that whether they voted for him, the opposition, or not at all, he still intended to earn their trust through tangible action.

“I know that some people in Golden Isles did not support me. Some did not come out to vote at all. I say to them today - I hear you as well. You may doubt whether this time will be different. That doubt is understandable. My goal is to give you reasons over time to believe that your Member of Parliament always has your best interest at the forefront.”