By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A GROUNDSMAN who spent more than four decades maintaining Paradise Island has been terminated, prompting an online petition from those who say the decision threatens livelihoods and the island's character.

A Change.org petition calling for the reinstatement of Bruce Maura, a maintenance worker whose contract was terminated, had attracted more than 600 signatures by Wednesday, up to press time. The petition urges the operations team at Atlantis Paradise Island to reconsider the decision, which supporters say ends 43 years of continuous service with no warning and no reason given.

“Bruce contributed to a cleaner, safer and more welcoming Paradise Island,” the petition states. “For over four decades, Bruce removed garbage, maintained island pathways and grounds, and consistently helped improve the environment for the benefit of residents, staff and guests.”

Mr Maura said he was stunned when he was informed his contract was ending, adding that no explanation was offered.

“They just handed me an envelope with a letter in it and said your contract’s terminated, and we would like you to wrap up all your business by the 5th of January and give them all their property back, which I have none of,” he said.

He said he had hoped to continue working, noting that he enjoys the job and relies on it for his livelihood.

“I’ve managed to keep it spotless all these years,” he said. “They didn’t give me a reason. They just gave me a notice of termination and that was it. I asked for what reason and they wouldn’t say.

“I’ve been working there for 43 years, and there were never any issues, never any complaints, so I was just sort of blindsided by it.”

With Christmas approaching, Mr Maura said the timing has been especially difficult, explaining that he and his small crew depended on the work at Paradise Island.

“I’m a contractor, so there’s no severance pay or anything. There’s just a goodbye,” he said. “I’m not financially stable enough yet to retire. I’d like a few more years as I’m physically able to do the job easily. I’d like to stay busy and keep on doing it.”

Supporters behind the petition said Mr Maura’s role went beyond routine maintenance, stressing that his work helped shape Paradise Island’s image as a welcoming destination. They also pointed to his care for stray cats on the island, which they said he undertook at his own expense, describing it as part of a broader commitment to humane treatment and environmental stewardship.

The petition makes three requests: a review of the circumstances surrounding the end of Mr Maura’s employment, which is slated to take effect on January 5, 2026; consideration of reinstating him or offering an alternative role that recognises his decades of service; and assurances that environmental upkeep and humane animal-care practices will continue consistently.

Mr Maura said he has been heartened by the public response.

“I think it’s great,” he said. “Many of the residents of Paradise Island don’t want to see the place get dirty.”

An Atlantis official declined to comment when contacted yesterday.