Bahamas Government Cracks Down on Private Security Firms
Illegal Hiring of Non-Nationals
The Bahamas government is holding a seminar with stakeholders to address the issue of private security firms illegally hiring non-nationals for positions and violating the law.
Chief Counsel’s Statement
"We suspect that a number of non-Bahamians may be working in this area, and persons may be illegally employing them. As far as we know, it’s an industry restricted for Bahamians," said Paul Jones, Chief Counsel in the Ministry of National Security.
Fines and Penalties
Companies hiring non-Bahamians or unlicensed personnel face fines ranging from US$500 to US$2,000.
Seminar Objectives
The seminar aims to emphasize compliance with the Inquiry Agents and Security Guards Act and Regulations and to discuss allowing security guards to carry firearms while on duty.
Permitting Exceptions
Jones noted that there may be exceptions for foreigners being granted spousal permits leading to citizenship.
Challenges in Hiring Bahamians
Jones said that firms might be hiring foreigners due to difficulties finding Bahamians to fill these roles. He also noted that some people have complained that Bahamians don’t want to work or have an issue with the working hours for the job.
Ministry Monitoring
The ministry is monitoring companies violating the law regardless of their reasons.
Licensing Requirements
All security guards and inquiry agents must hold licenses issued by the Ministry of National Security, granted based on the person’s character and history. Security companies are also required to have proper licenses and indemnity insurance to protect security guards in case of incidents happening while on duty.
Conclusion
The Bahamas government is taking a stern stance on private security firms illegally hiring non-nationals, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the law and ensuring the safety and security of the public.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the seminar?
The seminar aims to emphasize compliance with the Inquiry Agents and Security Guards Act and Regulations and to discuss allowing security guards to carry firearms while on duty. - Who is eligible for employment as security guards or inquiry agents?
Only Bahamian citizens are eligible for employment as security guards or inquiry agents, with possible exceptions for foreigners being granted spousal permits leading to citizenship. - What are the consequences for companies violating the law?
Companies hiring non-Bahamians or unlicensed personnel face fines ranging from US$500 to US$2,000. - Why are security companies required to have proper licenses and indemnity insurance?
Security companies are required to have proper licenses and indemnity insurance to protect security guards in case of incidents happening while on duty.
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