By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

The Grand Bahamas Port Authority (GBPA) is “open” for discussions with the Del Zotto family on the closure of their various interests in Grand Bahama.

In a release to the media, the GBPA said: “It has always been the position of the principals, shareholders and management of the GBPA that the closure of the Gold Rock Company and its sister businesses is not in the best interests of Grand Bahama.

“We reiterate our concern for the well-being of the hundreds of affected workers and their families, as well as the impact on consumers, other licencees and the island’s economy as a whole.

“The Port Authority understands that DEVCO has been and remains open to further discussion with Gold Rock’s principals in the hope of charting a productive way forward.”

The GBPA also said: “The Port Authority acknowledges and accepts a concern on the part of DEVCO that the terms of its former agreement with Gold Rock unfairly privileged one licensee over others. As previously stated, we also regret attempts to mischaracterize GBPA’s role in this matter, in an effort to gain a negotiating advantage. Our responsibility is to protect the interests of all licensees and promote the well-being of the Grand Bahama community as a whole.

“In keeping with this mandate, we express our sincere hope that this matter can still be resolved amicably. We are certain that through further negotiation in the spirit of good faith, a new agreement can be concluded that is equitable and beneficial to all involved.

“GBPA stands ready to facilitate a new negotiation process between Gold Rock and DEVCO and assist the parties in whatever way we can. Our door remains open.”

The move follows the announcement by the Florida-based Del Zotto family, Gold Rock’s owners, that it plans to shutter all its businesses, with the loss of 130 Bahamian jobs.