Public discourse about the compensation and relocation process for Bananes Bay residents has been topical as Global Ports Holding (GPH) intensifies its development agenda. According to government officials, GPH will construct a fisherman’s village at Bananes Bay alongside other initiatives as part of a complete overhaul of the cruise port.

Due to this development, the residents of Bananes Bay, who had been squatting on the beachfront property for some decades, would have to be relocated. SLASPA says the decision was taken to not only relocate, but compensate the residents, despite them having no title to the lands.

“SLASPA has taken deliberate steps to ensure all Project-Affected Persons are treated with dignity and fairness. Independent property and crop valuations were conducted to guide compensation. Personalised packages were developed based on structure value, length of occupancy, and potential income loss. Even without formal documents, claims were accepted in good faith,” said the Port Authority on June 4.

SLASPA adds that: “Additional support has included relocation grants, temporary housing assistance and referrals to the Crown Lands Department and social service agencies.”

In a prior SNO news article, one Bananes Bay resident described the relocation process as crucial in restoring residents’ dignity.