Grand Isles cites COVID-19 challenges as 40 laid off

The ongoing economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more job losses, after Grand Isle Resort & Residences on Exuma announced on Friday that it laid off 40 staff members.

The resort’s management said in a statement that it had no choice but to restructure its business model following a year of severe financial challenges.

“It is with great regret that the restructuring includes the termination of some 40 currently furloughed team members, each of whom will be treated fairly and receive full payout packages in accordance with the Bahamas Employment Act,” the statement said.

“Grand Isle is committed to retaining as many team members as possible and remaining a preferred employer on the island. The Minister of Labour has been informed of this matter and we look forward to an amicable resolution with continued success for both the resort and our team members.”

Grand Isle and neighboring resort Sandals Emerald Bay are the primary employers on Great Exuma.

Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Deputy Leader Chester Cooper, who is the member of Parliament for the Exumas and Ragged Island, said it is hoped that more opportunities for employment throughout Exuma will come on stream as bookings pick up for the summer season.

“I was concerned to learn that Grand Isle Resort on Exuma terminated some 40 furloughed workers. I know that some of these workers were left in limbo for some time while advocating for severance pay,” he said.

“All parties have suffered from the pandemic and this outcome is unfortunate for Exuma. I have been in contact with management at the resort over the past several weeks. I was told by management that these workers will receive their full severance pay and benefits entitled to them by law.”

The government is seeking to build a new $65 million airport on Exuma through a public-private partnership, which is expected to increase airlift to the island.

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source https://thenassauguardian.com/grand-isles-cites-covid-19-challenges-as-40-laid-off/