The Department of Immigration advises the general public of the status of a number of immigration matters under active review.

The public is further advised that complaints and reported irregularities regarding work permits are initially investigated by the Department of Labour according to law. The Government of The Bahamas is particularly sensitive to the labour components of commercial agreements as regards the limitations on foreign labour and the training and hiring of Bahamian labour.

The Department references three matters of national import that have attracted public interest and commentary in recent weeks:

The Pointe at the British Colonial, Nassau: The Department is reviewing this project and expects to meet with the developer and the Department of Labour shortly in connection with their project.

Memories Resort in Freeport, Grand Bahama: The Department of Immigration received a report from the Department of Labour with regard to the actions of a non-Bahamian employee toward Bahamian employees at this hotel and has acted pursuant to the recommendations of that report - that is the withdrawal of the employee’s right to work in The Bahamas and his recall from The Bahamas. The matter however may be the subject to an appeal.

The Cove at Eleuthera: Reports of abusive behavior by foreign management toward Bahamian employees is also under active investigation at this project in Eleuthera.

The Department will keep the public informed of any new development.