By ANGELO ARMBRISTER

Freeport News Reporter

The official opposition Free National Movement (FNM) yesterday expressed deep concern about the escalating internal conflict at the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), declaring that this comes at a time when Grand Bahama is faced with serious economic hardships, unemployment and business failures.

"Grand Bahama is in desperate need of restoration and stable, focused and productive leadership," the FNM said in a press statement. "While the FNM will not comment on any specific issues before the courts at this time, we are fully aware that it is the responsibility of the government of The Bahamas to look after the interests of the Bahamian people in all matters and to formulate policies in pursuit of those issues.

Noting that the FNM "will continue to keep abreast of all developments in Freeport to the extent that our position permits," the statement added, "Upon our return to office the FNM will give urgent attention to all matters affecting Freeport and the entire island of Grand Bahama. We will not be idle observers of events relating to the Grand Bahama Port Authority."

GBPA Honorary Chairman Sir Jack Hayward last week assured staff and licensees of his unwavering commitment to the future of Freeport.

"The Port Authority shall not be distracted from its role of advancing the quality of life of Grand Bahamians and remains confident and committed to the future of Grand Bahama," Sir Jack said.

The Port Authority has remained in the headlines as of late following publicized report of a lawsuit filed against the company by the estate of the late Edward St. George.

Meanwhile, FNM officials say that they will act urgently, decisively and sensibly to ensure that Freeport the island of Grand Bahama realize their potential through open and transparent commerce, internationally accepted regulatory standards, robust tourism and industrial sectors and increased capital inflows.

The statement added that the FNM is consulting widely with the residents of Grand Bahama as well as Freeport licensees, 80 percent of whom are Bahamians, and later will consult with all Port Authority shareholders.

"The FNM fully appreciates that the continued orderly development of Freeport is critical to the future development of Grand Bahama and The Bahamas," party officials explained. "Therefore, once in government the FNM will ensure tat the Port Authority lives up to all of its responsibilities under the Hawksbill Creek Agree-ment."

The party went on to implore the Port Authority and the Grand Bahama Power Company to exercise leniency and forbearance with residents, licensees and small businesses while they continue to experience hardship from the island's stagnant economy.

"The FNM assures all that it will take all steps necessary to move Grand Bahama's economy to positive growth as it did in 1992 following its election victory," the statement said. "Grand Bahama knows that on this score the FNM's record in office speaks for itself and we pledge upon return to office to do it again."