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Prime Minister Davis Announces Plans for One Accountable Governance Framework for All of Grand Bahama
October 21, 2026（https://opm.gov.bs/2026/10/21/）
Government launches six-month public consultation on proposed reforms to Freeport’s governance, with commitments to protect lawful rights, strengthen accountability and expand opportunities across the island.
FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – Prime Minister Philip Davis has announced plans to establish a single, accountable governance framework for the whole of Grand Bahama, marking a proposed change in how the island is administered, regulated and positioned for future development.
Speaking at the Grand Bahama Shipyard, the Prime Minister outlined the Government’s intention to replace Freeport’s existing system of divided public governance with a modern framework that would apply consistently across the island, while protecting lawful interests, maintaining a strong role for private investment and giving Grand Bahamians a direct voice in shaping the transition.
“Whether we change is settled. How we change is yours to shape,” Prime Minister Davis said.
The announcement coincided with the publication of a Green Paper entitled Grand Bahama: A Framework for Stability and Growth , which sets out the Government’s proposals and opens a six-month period of public consultation beginning 1 November 2026.
At the centre of the proposed reforms is a fundamental change to the way Grand Bahama is governed.
Currently, residents and businesses within the Freeport Port Area operate under both national laws and a separate system of licences, approvals and bye-laws administered by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA).
The Government is proposing to bring public administration and regulation under one transparent and accountable framework for the entire island, ensuring greater consistency for residents, businesses and investors, whether they are located within the Port Area or in East or West Grand Bahama.
The Green Paper outlines several proposals to support that transition, including the establishment of a Government-led Grand Bahama Development Council to coordinate development across the island.
It also proposes a comprehensive review of the existing Agreement, directed by the Attorney General, and the development of a modern legislative framework, including a proposed Grand Bahama Development Act.
A key component of the proposed approach is the extension of investment concessions across Grand Bahama, with the possibility of enhanced incentives outside the Port Area to encourage economic activity and attract development to communities in East and West Grand Bahama.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the transition would be undertaken lawfully and through Parliament, with appropriate protections for existing rights and obligations.
The publication of the Green Paper does not itself change the legal position of residents, businesses, property owners or licensees.