By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

As the sixth anniversary of Hurricane Dorian approaches on September 1, Sweeting’s Cay residents remain determined to recover, still fighting to restore their island to the vibrant fishing community it once was.

The cay’s population has dwindled from more than 200 before Dorian to fewer than 80, with many families still displaced in Freeport.

While some return on weekends to repair their homes, major infrastructure such as the dock, school, and clinic remain in disrepair.

“We are still begging every day for help from NGOs and government,” said Shervin Tate, chief councillor of Sweeting’s Cay.

Describing residents as hard working, strong people, Mr Tate said the island is known for its abundant fishing grounds, teeming with lobster, crab, fish, and conch which feeds many in Grand Bahama and the Bahamas.

“We cannot compete with the rest of the world without the resources and infrastructure we need,” he pleaded.

According to Mr Tate, the state of the island’s dock, the point of entry and critical for tourism, is a constant source of frustration.

“When my guests come and see such an untidy spot, it makes my heart sad. I am saying to the government and the opposition: fight together and let’s get Sweeting’s Cay dock going, let’s get the school going, and let’s repair our infrastructure. We have so much to offer, but we are being left behind,” he said.

He also expressed frustration that while government grants are being distributed to support development in other communities, Sweeting’s Cay has not been included.

“You are giving out all these grants all over the place, but you are not giving to Sweeting’s Cay,” Mr Tate claimed. “Bring those grants here so our people can participate, create jobs, and compete too like everyone else.”

Mr Tate said Sweeting’s Cay fishermen need assistance. “We can put more money into the treasury if given the chance — our fishermen and tour guides just need the same opportunity,” he stressed.

For residents, the anniversary of Dorian remains bittersweet. Many lost homes, loved ones, and livelihoods.

Many are still hurting, Mr Tate said.

“Every time it’s a sad feeling,” he added. “My mom lost five nieces and nephews. I just buried my dad and my brother this year. They never had the chance to return to their home before they passed. There is still a lot of sorrow inside of us, even though you may see us laugh.”

Still, the community is determined to push forward. With restaurants, fishing tours, and eco-tourism offerings, residents are working with what little they have.

But Mr Tate warns unless more support is given, the island risks further depopulation.

“Before Dorian, we had more than 200 residents. Now it’s 75 to 80. Each day, the numbers are depleting because of the lack of homes and jobs. We need the same opportunities as every other Bahamian so people can stay in their homes and rebuild their lives here,” he stated.

Despite the challenges, Mr Tate is optimistic that the island can fully bounce back. “Sweeting’s Cay has alway been a place where the wise men of fishing come from. We contribute about a million to the Bahamian economy through conch, lobster, and fish. If given the same chance, we can double that. We want the opportunity to compete and to restore Sweeting’s Cay.”