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Inside Weekend

PM: No secrecy over Baha Mar Christie questions fitness of opponents to serve after criticism

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Perry Christie said yesterday there is “nothing secret” about Baha Mar and that lawyers have instructed him not to divulge relevant details because of the sensitivity of the matter and the amount of money being transacted among parties.

He criticised public figures yesterday, questioning whether they are fit for public service in view of their criticism of the government’s limited revelation of details surrounding a recently struck deal with the Export-Import Bank of China (CEXIM) to get Baha Mar remobilised.

Mr Christie’s comments

came during a groundbreaking ceremony at the Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) to mark the beginning of construction of a $2.3m smart classroom complex at the institution.

Though he was expected to focus on the need for technical education investments in the country, it was clear Baha Mar was on his mind.

Striking a tone of defiance and frustration, he frequently diverted his focus toward defending his government’s actions from critics who say insufficient details about Baha Mar were revealed during his evening press conference on Monday.

HEALTHY LUNCHES Page 7

Meet ‘Shark Boy’

12-year-old dives into his tory

Interview, pages 4&5

WOMAN HELD AFTER FATAL STABBING OF BOYFRIEND

By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net A WOMAN is in police custody after she was accused of stabbing her boyfriend to death during a heated argument early yesterday morning.

The murder took place shortly after midnight on Ida Street. It brought the country’s homicide count to 68 for the year, according to The Tribune’s records.

Officer-in-Charge of the Central Detective Unit, Chief Superintendent Clayton Fernander said the suspect called the police and reported that she had just stabbed her boyfriend.

“Police went to the home through Ida Street around 12.30am where they met the lifeless body of an adult male who appeared to have been stabbed to death,” Chief Supt Fernander said.

TEENS SORRY FOR PART IN KILLING OF SCHOOLBOY

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

SEE PAGE SEVEN

on behalf of the government said the allegation that citizenships have been offered to secure the deal “is false”.

Dr Minnis also questioned whether the government has provided “over a thousand work permits to Chinese nationals to do work that Bahamians can do” regarding construction work at the resort. He also asked if it has exempted the Chinese from paying value added tax (VAT), hotel and casino taxes “for a specified period of time” as part of the deal.

SEE PAGE SIX

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SEE PAGE TEN

FNM LEADER CALLS FOR MORE CLARITY OVER DEAL

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday called on the Christie administration to reveal whether it has granted “automatic citizenship” to “hundreds of Chinese nationals” as part of the recently announced deal with the Export-Import Bank of China to open the shuttered $3.5 billion Baha Mar resort.

A statement released by Bahamas Information Services yesterday afternoon

Weekend

PRIME Minister Perry Christie speaking yesterday.

Photo: Tim Clarke/Tribune Staff

GOVT: NO CITIZENSHIPS OFFERED

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net

IN response to mounting concern over the concessions offered to Chinese investors to remobilise Baha Mar, the government denounced claims that induce-

ments of citizenships and private islands were offered to kick-start construction efforts at the stalled $3.5bn Cable Beach property.

“The government will not be distracted from its efforts and will continue to work for and on behalf of the Bahamian people,” a statement

released by Bahamas Information Services noted.

“There have been allegations that we have offered citizenships. This is false.

There have been allegations that we have given away or sold islands. This is false.”

SEE PAGE SIX

TWO teens sought forgiveness yesterday from the parents of Adonai Wilson moments after they admitted involvement in a scuffle that led to the 16-year-old’s stabbing death.

The pair, 17 and 15, appeared before Justice Bernard Turner for the continuation of their trial alongside a third accused also 18 - related to Wilson’s December 9, 2015 murder.

However when the matter was called, the lawyers for the younger teens, Ian Cargill and Roberto Reckley, asked the judge if the charges could be re-read to their clients.

The 17-year-old pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted guilt to the lesser charge of manslaughter. His 15-year-old co-accused also pleaded not guilty to murder while admitting to attempted causing harm.

SEE PAGE TEN

HEAVY RAIN AND STORM WARNING FOR RESIDENTS IN SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS

By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net

RESIDENTS in the southeast Bahamas were expected to experience pockets of heavy rain and thunderstorms last night, as a tropical wave called Invest 99L continues to move through the islands.

Deputy Director of the

Department of Meteorology Basil Dean said the system is producing tropical storm-force winds, though it has yet to form a closed circulation associated with tropical storms or depressions.

He said meteorologists have discovered that the winds have “died down some” and the shower activity has become disor-

ganised, but residents in the entire Bahamas should prepare for rain beginning today until Tuesday.

Mr Dean said regardless of tropical cyclone formation, gusty winds and heavy rain “are highly” likely to accompany this system and could result in severe flooding over the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeast Bahamas, which

includes Long Island, Ragged Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Mayaguana and Inagua.

“There is a 50 per cent chance the system could strengthen into a tropical depression or tropical storm but that would not be until it is well out of our waters,” Mr Dean said on Thursday.

SEE PAGE TWO

PAGE 2, Friday, August 26, 2016

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DON’T miss breaking news throughout the weekend and a video review of the week’s top news stories with The Tribune’s Top Five.

And, on Monday, The Tribune returns to newsstands with a round-up of all the weekend news, business and sport.

Heavy rain and storm warning for residents in southeast Bahamas from page one “From all indications it will rain until Tuesday and the weather will return to normal on Wednesday.

Flooding is still possible and residents who live in areas that are prone to flooding should take whatever steps are necessary. Everyone will not get the same level of rain and flooding but everyone should be alert.”

Authorities advised small boats to stay in port.

The disturbance has produced tropical storm-force wind gusts between 40 mph and 50 mph in heavy squalls over some of the northern Caribbean islands and surrounding waters since Wednesday.

Nearly four inches of rain fell in the Dominican Republic yesterday and 19 of its 32 provinces were on alert as rivers rose rapidly and flooding was expected.

Earlier this week, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Director Captain Stephen Russell called on Bahamians to monitor the movement of all of the active storm systems, and to “finalise plans for the remainder of the hurricane season in order to safeguard lives and protect properties.”

Capt Russell said in a statement on Tuesday that people should remain vigilant, particularly throughout September and October, which he said is “peak season for storms.” He also urged residents to check weather forecasts regularly for alerts and to ensure that their homes meet building codes to withstand hurricanes and that they have

INSURANCE MANAGEMENT INFRA-RED SATELLITE TRACKING MAP

STORM DETAILS

Day: Thu Date: 08/25/16 Time: 10am EDT Storm Name: Hurricane ACCU 8 Movement: Northeast at X mph Central Pressure: 1009 mb Sustained Wind (mph): 35 mph Peak Gust (mph): 45 mph

storm shutters.

If the wave becomes a storm, it will be the eighth of the year as the Atlantic hurricane season moves into peak months. The

storm will be named Hermine.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Gaston, which weakened from a hurricane earlier yesterday, was over

the central Atlantic, about 1,160 miles east-northeast of the Leeward Islands. It had maximum sustained winds of 70mph and is not forecast to make landfall.

Storm Discussion: A strong tropical wave designated as 99L will move over or just west of the southern and central Bahamas today and tonight bringing these islands showers and gusty winds. The tropical system will pass over or near Andros Island Saturday where it will have the opportunity to develop into a depression.

MOTHER ACCUSED OF COCAINE TRAFFICKING A 31-YEAR OLD Bahamian mother of two has been arrested and charged in connection with cocaine trafficking offences in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Tracia Kelly Miller, a

resident of New Providence, was charged with two counts of trafficking in cocaine and one count of procession with intent to sell and distribute on August 18, following her arrest

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a day earlier.

Ms Miller was granted bail at $500,000 for each of the trafficking charges and $2,500 for the charge of intent. However, bail was not met and Ms Miller was referred back to the county jail to await trail.

It is unclear when Ms Miller - who is believed to be a former employee at Atlantis, Paradise Island made the trip to the United States or if she has been able to secure legal representation.

Inquires made by The Tribune to the Bahamas Consul in Atlanta, Georgia, the office with responsibility for North Carolina jurisdiction, proved fruitless, with officials reporting that they were aware of the case to date.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, August 26, 2016, PAGE 3

Road Traffic still supplying details on missing money

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net ROAD Traffic Department Controller Ross Smith confirmed yesterday that officials are still actively supplying evidence to police in connection with the auditor general’s findings of multi-million dollar losses at the department.

Mr Smith remained tightlipped on the scope of the police investigation, stating only that no charges have been filed in the matter.

He explained that any worker accused of fraud would be placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of a trial, unless there are “mitigating circumstances” determined by the Ministry of Public Service.

Mr Smith acknowledged that there has been “a lot of fallout” amid the massive rollout of internal controls at Road Traffic offices throughout the country as the department readies itself for the launch of its new automated system in the upcoming weeks.

“We have acted on that (auditor general’s report), and put in a lot of controls in the area. There has been a lot of fallout. People will rebel against change.”

He added: “Any evidence that we find that is connected to those findings, we send over to police. This is an ongoing matter, and we have to do it in order to stamp out these old practices.

“It didn’t happen overnight, so we don’t expect everything to go away.

We’ve seen a lot of changes and adherence to the policy.”

Auditor General Terrance Bastian’s damning report on the department was tabled in the House of Assembly in May. The report focused on vehicle license revenue and payroll processing and covered the

period July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2015.

Mr Bastian warned of a severe lack of order and control over the assets and revenue collection at the Road Traffic Department, revealing millions in losses from vehicle license revenue due to employees and motorists “circumventing rules and regulations.”

At a minimum, it is believed some $10 million in vehicle license revenue is being uncollected. Mr Bastian also highlighted instances of apparent fraud and “collusion” involving inspectors, writers and cashiers as they carried out daily tasks.

The department’s automated system is expected to go live in about six weeks, according to Transport Minister Glenys HannaMartin.

In a press statement released yesterday, Mrs Hanna-Martin renewed her pledge for the modernisation of the department and protection of public revenue.

The statement read: “Reports by the auditor general have identified vulnerabilities which have plagued this department for decades, leading to potential and actual revenue leakages on a sustained basis for decades.

“Matters arising from

POTHOLES STILL PLAGUE ROAD JUNCTION LARGE holes in the road at the intersection of Cowpen Road and Maria Drive remain a problem for motorists six weeks after being reported by a resident to the Road Maintenance Department in the Ministry of Works.

The Tribune has been drawing attention to areas that are being neglected, or are unsightly, unhealthy and being ignored by the relevant authorities, whether they be potholes in the road, uncollected garbage or abandoned cars.

• Email fixmystreet@tribunemedia.net to let us know your issues.

LARGE holes in the road at the intersection of Cowpen Road and Maria Drive remain a problem for motorists six weeks after being reported by a resident to the Road Maintenance Department in the Ministry of Works.

BLACK BOX REVEALS CAPTAIN’S ORDER TO ABANDON DOOMED EL FARO FREIGHTER THE captain of the doomed freighter El Faro ordered his crew to abandon ship about ten hours after leaving Jacksonville, Florida, and becoming caught in a hurricane last year, audio from the sunken ship’s “black box” shows.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB ) said on Wednesday it recovered 26 hours of information from the ship’s recorder, including bridge audio from the final hours.

The El Faro sank on October 1 in 15,000 feet of water near Crooked Island in the Bahamas after losing propulsion in the storm. All 33 aboard died.

“Numerous events leading up to the loss of the El Faro are heard on the ... audio, recorded from microphones on the ship’s bridge,” the NTSB said in a news release. Crews recovered the voyage data recorder earlier this month using a remotecontrolled submarine.

The recording starts at

5.37am on the fateful day, about eight hours after the ship left port for Puerto Rico.

Captain Michael Davidson and his crew can be heard discussing flooding and the increasing list - or tilt - of the 790-foot-long ship as Hurricane Joaquin battered it with strong winds and massive waves, the NTSB said.

Capt Davidson had called ashore just after 7am, telling an operator who took the call that he had a hull breach when a hatch blew open, according to a recording played during US Coast Guard investigative hearings earlier this year.

He said there was water in a hold and the ship had a list.

“The clock is ticking,” Capt Davidson told the operator.

The NTSB said the data recorder shows the captain called orders to abandon ship and sounded the alarm about 7.30am. The NTSB says the recording ends

minutes later.

The 40-year-old ship had open lifeboats unlike more modern ships. It was also due for maintenance the following month before being retired from the Puerto Rico trade.

In additions to the “voices-from-the-grave” audio that the ship’s data recorder provides, it also recorded weather and navigational data that will help investigators piece together El Faro’s final hours in a way they could not have previously.

The NTSB did not release the audio, but is working on a transcript for later release. It said some of the audio is degraded because of background noise, so that transcribing it accurately will be time-consuming.

So far, settlements between crew members’ families and the ship’s owner, Tote Services Inc, have been reached in at least 21 of the 33 cases, the Florida Times-Union newspaper has reported recently.

the auditor general’s reports have been referred to the Royal Bahamas Police Force for investigation and necessary action where warranted.

Malfeasance and theft are not tolerated by this ministry,” she said.

ROAD Traffic Department controller Ross Smith.

PAGE 4, Friday, August 26, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

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Why burkini swimsuit are causing controversy PARIS (AP) — French mayors are drawing international anger for banning the burkini, an all-encompassing swimsuit worn by a small minority of Muslim women. The Associated Press explains the core of the controversy.

WHAT ARE BURKINIS? They’re a recent retail invention, not a religious requirement in any country. Around a decade ago an Australian woman of Lebanese origin created a swimsuit for Muslim women designed to permit them to keep their bodies covered while working as lifeguards on Australian beaches. Her design was dubbed the burkini or burqini.

Burkinis cover the head, torso and limbs — much like a wetsuit with a hood.

The word conflates the words bikini and burqa, a full-body covering with only a mesh screen for the eyes. Burqas are worn primarily in Afghanistan.

Burkinis are rarely seen in France, where you’re more likely to spot women sunbathing topless. International sales reportedly have soared in response to French efforts to restrict their public display.

WHY BAN THEM? France is both exceptionally secular and unusually fearful of Islamic extremism following last month’s truck attack in Nice that killed 86 people and the slaying of a Catholic priest during Mass in Normandy, both claimed by the Islamic State group.

While the burkini’s defenders have argued that the wearing of the garment has nothing to do with promoting bloodshed, mayors have countered that wearing the outfits could undermine public order by making other beachgoers angry or afraid.

The French, who famously ban baggy men’s swim trunks from their pools, also argue that excessively large women’s swimwear poses a similar risk to public hygiene.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls says burkinis represent the enslavement of women and puts his opposition in the context of France’s promotion of women’s rights worldwide.

But France’s predominant argument is that the burkini violates France’s century-old commitment to promote secularism in public life. The first article of the French constitution enshrines this principle, while polls show French people are among the least religious in the world.

France repeatedly has cited this secularist agenda when targeting Muslim practices that are seen to push religion too far into mainstream society.

BACKLASH TO THE BANS French Muslims say they feel stigmatized by the restrictions, while some police have complained that the new rules are too vague or problematic to be enforced.

Images this week that showed Nice po-

lice appearing to instruct a burkini-clad beachgoer to remove her tunic stirred indignation online. Human rights groups petitioned France’s highest administrative authority, the Council of State, which plans to issue its ruling Friday on the burkini bans.

The policy is raising tensions within French President François Hollande’s leftist government, too.

IT’S POLITICS Critics say the anti-burkini crusade reflects a far right, anti-Muslim agenda that could prove to be a vote-winner in France’s 2017 presidential election.

Many mayors to the fore on the issue are members of former President Nicolas Sarkozy’s conservative Republican party.

Sarkozy, who is seeking re-election, said Wednesday: “We don’t imprison women behind fabric.”

He linked burkinis to radicalized Islam, a contention that many Muslims regard as baseless and dangerous. But this kind of rhetoric could help Sarkozy win votes from the anti-immigrant National Front party of Marine Le Pen, a presidential contender who has campaigned against what she calls the Islamization of France.

Burkinis pose a dilemma for the French left, a staunch defender of women’s rights. The prime minister and women’s affairs minister support the bans because they say burkinis oppress women; the education minister and health minister say authorities shouldn’t dictate what women wear.

A LESS SECULAR WORLD France’s stringent secularism is exceptional in the western world, and much of the rest of the world is struggling to understand France’s actions. Protesters rallied Thursday against the French bans in London and Berlin.

Burkinis are sold by major retailers in Britain. Elsewhere in Europe, burkinis are rare but no municipal bans exist.

Not yet anyway. In Belgium, the rightleaning Flemish N-VA party doesn’t want burkinis on public beaches, calling it a sign of oppressing women.

THE MUSLIM FASHION Women in Muslim countries wear a range of swimwear, from bikinis to fulllength garments, reflecting their personal tastes and understanding of their faith.

Burkini-style wear has generated debate in Morocco, with its large tourism industry. In Egypt, some resorts, elite clubs and restaurants ban veils entirely and the wearing of burkini-style outfits in swimming pools. Religious conservatives, who have been gaining ground, say such bans perpetuate a colonized mentality by enforcing Western-inspired freedoms and styles.

By Angela Charlton of the Associated Press

The govt and tax compliance EDITOR, The Tribune.

DURING the last Budget presentation, the Government snuck a provision through that businesses would have to apply for a Tax Compliance Certificate in order to be paid by them for goods and services.

In essence, if your taxes are not paid, the government will not pay you.

Seems like a reasonable proposition until you make application and find out that if a courier company imported something on your behalf and has not paid the import taxes you cannot get paid by the government.

And it doesn’t matter if you paid your courier company.

Let me expand a bit.

A courier company clears your goods on the strength

of a guarantee or Bond with Customs that the government can draw down on if the courier company does not pay the import taxes.

But instead of doing so, and calling on their first charge (the bond), the Ministry of Finance deems the consignee should be held liable even if you have paid the courier company, and refuses to issue your Tax Compliance Certificate.

Having to apply for a Tax Compliance Certificate to the authority that tells you you are compliant or not is laughable until you stop and think how ridiculous it is.

You mean they don’t know if a company is tax compliant or not until the government makes them jump through more bureaucratic hoops in order to

obtain yet another piece of paper?

Enough is enough. Businesses should refuse to sell goods or services to the government on a charge basis.

You want a product or service Mr Government, you pay for it via cheque, cash or credit card like everyone else.

To get goods and services from a business and then withhold payment because a courier company has not paid their import taxes is nothing short of immoral and confirms the old saying from Oliver Twist that “the law is an ass, an idiot”.

Completely contrary to common sense in this case.

RICK LOWE Nassau, August 24, 2016.

Need for Baha Mar clarity EDITOR, The Tribune.

ON the matter of Baha Mar. It is encouraging that, according to the Government, the project appears to once again be funded and that works will recommence. If this is accurate, the Government is to be commended for working to ensure that all Bahamian creditors will be paid a sizable portion of amounts owed to them.

The Organization for Responsible Governance makes the following observations and comments in the name of good governance and towards the benefit of the nation.

The lack of transparency around the agreement is gravely concerning. It is every Bahamian’s right to know what concessions their government extends to any developer, as they will ultimately pay for these concessions.

Although CCA and the CEXIM bank have reportedly agreed to complete the development, the installment of a number of reputable hotel brands (Flags) is a critical missing component to the development.

The Government’s statements, to date, hold no mention of these. It is imperative that the owners and the Government attract reputable Flags immediately in order to provide much needed confidence to make the project successful and, more importantly, sustainable.

Additionally, the advancement of construction without the involvement of such Flags is concerning, as any reputable hotel brand will most likely require construction to be completed to their specifications and with their management’s oversight.

Involvement of such Flags late in the development stage will inevitably cost the Developer and/ or the Flags more money, which will ultimately hurt returns on investment and levels of competitiveness.

The Bahamas, and this development specifically, have already suffered sig-

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net nificant reputational damage due to the failed initial opening of Baha Mar. The Bahamas tourism brand cannot afford the Baha Mar product to be anything less than perfect or it will continue to be a weight around the neck of the Bahamian tourism industry.

The Government and the Owner must assure Bahamians that they understand the importance of providing a world class operation which will keep visitors coming back for decades and that will make Bahamians proud.

Getting the project operational for the sake of showing progress, or because the country is entering election season, is not a responsible action and Bahamians need to demand more answers from the Government and the Owners to assure that there is a well thought out plan and the aforesaid concerns have been addressed.

The Government must be cautiously aware of the number of key Bahamian assets that the Chinese Government, their various agencies and offshore companies, own. China, like any other respectful foreign direct investor, should be welcomed to invest responsibly in our economy and development.

However, it is imperative that any and all foreign investors in key industries maintain assets and operations at a high level and that these operations remain regionally and globally competitive in these industries.

Many assets in The Bahamas, which are owned by Chinese government driven entities, such as hotels, shipping ports, air ports, terminals, real-estate developments, are performing at sub-par levels which ultimately has a negative effect on the Bahamian GDP. Most developed nations have control over the number of assets being held by any one group through Trade Commissions. This

is of great importance to assure that its citizens and the nation are protected against unfair or underhanded dealings.

Given its non-democratic structure, China, and its offshore companies, can act as one goliath company.

This puts private business, from a market like The Bahamas, at a significant disadvantage. In theory, Chinese government driven entities could lower their rates to drive out competing businesses, making it virtually impossible for a privately owned company, from a free market nation to compete.

The long term success of the Bahamian economy is dependent upon a strong and competitive environment for local businesses to exist alongside foreign development projects. The Bahamas cannot put all of our eggs into one basket.

In any stable modern society, citizens must understand what their leadership and government are doing.

It is also incumbent on the Government to properly and responsibly provide its citizens with information on all contracts and deals that it signs on the people’s behalf.

ORG continues to push all political leaders and government toward OPEN, ACCOUNTABLE and RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE. Once again, it appears that the current Baha Mar plan is neither clear nor open and citizens are left wondering if this is a good and responsible deal for The Bahamas.

This lack of transparency casts a shadow on the potentially positive news that the Government has stimulated activity on the Baha Mar project.

The long term viability of this project and its benefits to the Bahamian economy and workforce still remains in question.

THE ORGANIZATION FOR RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE Nassau, August 24, 2016.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, August 26, 2016, PAGE 5

November 10 date set for transition to university

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net THE College of The Bahamas will fully transition into the University of The Bahamas on November 10, ushering in a complete paradigm shift in the culture and fabric of The Bahamas, according to Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald.

Officials made the landmark announcement yesterday during a press conference at the college’s Harry C Moore Library, where officials laid out a 12-day schedule of events across New Providence and

Grand Bahama to mark the historic occasion.

Bookended by a service of thanksgiving on Sunday, November 6, and a plaque unveiling for the institution’s northern campus on Thursday, November 17, the events bring to an end a 14-year process initiated in 2002 by the first Christie administration.

“I am deeply honoured to be here to speak to this significant moment in the history of our nation,” said the Marathon MP. He added that government has longheld a vision for modern education, a journey mapped out by Prime Minister Per-

ry Christie 14 years ago.

“Now, this vision is finally being realised,” he affirmed. “Today, it is my distinct pleasure to announce, on behalf of the government, that November 10 will be our Charter Day and the day that we will officially become The University of The Bahamas.”

Mr Fitzgerald insisted that the college’s transition to university status will be a “paradigm shift in the culture and fabric of our country as it relates to tertiary education and national development as a whole.”

He added: “It is a shift in how we experience higher

education in The Bahamas, as we will be amongst many other nations who boast of having a national university.

We are here today to witness the building of a more modern nation.”

According to Mr Fitzgerald, COB has operated at a university level for quite sometime now, as the institution has graduated some 70 per cent of its latest class with bachelor degrees; offers more than 60 diverse degree programmes; progressed in its development of graduate programmes; and increased productivity in research and publication output.

COB President Dr Rodney Smith said the institution was working relentlessly with a multi-ministerial team to coordinate all public and private activities surrounding Charter Day. These include officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Works; Departments of Customs and Immigration; the Royal Bahamas Police Force; Bahamas Information Services; ZNS; the National Sports Authority and the Public Health Authority.

Additionally, Dr Smith confirmed that paraphernalia of the University of The Bahamas will go on sale on

November 5.

The public is encouraged to buy and sport the royal blue paraphernalia the official colours of The University of The Bahamas - throughout the 12-day establishment period.

Further to this, over the next several weeks, COB is also expected to continue it processes of programme and faculty enhancement, mirroring its transition process across the board.

The University of The Bahamas Bill 2016 was passed in the Senate earlier this month, shortly after being debated and passed by the House of Assembly.

SMITH BLASTS FNM FOR FAILURE OF ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE TO REPORT

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Cabinet minister George Smith said yesterday the Public Accounts Committee has “failed miserably” in the execution of its duties.

He added that there ought to be no excuse for the level of “impotence” the parliamentary committee has shown during this term.

Branding it “the worst PAC” he’s seen, Mr Smith said this committee has left much to be desired.

Speaking to The Tribune, the former MP said the PAC by virtue is the most powerful committee in Parliament and should give the Official Opposition, which makes up its majority, the opportunity to show the public how meticulously they would guard public funds among other things, should their party be elected as the government.

However, Mr Smith said if the public is to judge the FNM by the PAC’s track record over the last four years, they would see the party as a “failure” and incapable of governing this country.

Parliament should maintain oversight of the government’s finances through the Public Accounts Committee and it can send for papers and subpoena anyone it chooses during the course of investigations.

The committee has three members from the Official Opposition and two representatives from the gov-

erning Progressive Liberal Party.

They include, St Anne’s MP Hubert Chipman who is the committee’s chairman, FNM Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest, Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn and PLP members Elizabeth MP Ryan Pinder and Golden Gates MP Shane Gibson.

“I am surprised that the present Public Accounts Committee has appeared to be impotent in discharging the responsibilities of the nation and there ought to be no excuses for that,” Mr Smith said when he was contacted yesterday.

“The Public Accounts Committee during my tenure in the House of Assembly and many of those committees over the years did the work and did so assiduously and the public was generally satisfied with their performance.

“If the goal is to investigate these things and if the end result is if they can have an impact on the performance of the government and the public concludes that those are reasons to withdraw support from the government of the day, the PAC can take credit for it.

“Their role is to investigate and to make recommendations. Then the consequence of that may be on the continuity of a particular party in government, but their objective must be not seen to be purely intended to overthrow the government. That would mean that they are then concentrating on an objective that

is not supported by what their mandate really is.”

Mr Smith said House committees are the most powerful organs to monitor the performance of the government, which is why the Official Opposition dominates its make-up. This is to ensure they can go after matters with greater intensity and objectivity, Mr Smith said.

“As far as I am concerned, the members of the Public Accounts Committee have failed miserably in the discharge of their responsibilities. This particular committee is the worst PAC I’ve seen in all my years of observing politics of the Bahamas.

“None in the past have so miserably disappointed in the expectations of Parliament and the public,” he stressed.

During its term as an active House committee, the PAC promised to launch several investigations into matters that raised public attention and sparked national debate. However, it is unclear whether the probes were launched or were able to reach completion.

These include an investigation into the contracts issued for the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) and a probe into the 2013 travel costs incurred by Prime Minister Perry Christie and a delegation that travelled to a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Sri Lanka, which also visited Rome and London.

Mr Chipman also told

GEORGE Smith has criticised the FNM for failing to carry out its duties with relation to the Public Accounts Committee.

The Tribune in November 2015 that the Road Traffic Department was to be investigated.

Earlier this year, Mr Turnquest also told Tribune Business that the PAC had issued a request for information to get to the bottom of controversy surrounding whether hotelier Philip Ruffin still owed the government millions in unpaid

casino taxes.

However, the PAC did launch a full investigation into the operations of Urban Renewal 2.0 last year.

An auditor general’s report covering July 1, 2012 to September 30, 2014, which also surveyed 75 homes, was leaked to the media last year revealing a litany of concerns and weaknesses related to the Small Home

Repairs project. The PAC had used the report in its investigation.

A report stemming from this investigation was completed earlier this year, according to Mr Chipman, but has yet to be tabled in the House of Assembly.

The report is the first one produced by the PAC since the Christie administration assumed office in 2012.

COUNTRY’S ECONOMY NOW STANDS ALONGSIDE WORST PERFORMING IN THE WORLD, WARNS FNM DEPUTY LEADER

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest yesterday lamented the country’s creditworthiness being downgraded to one notch above ‘junk’ status by an international credit rating agency, as he said the country is “now in the class of the lowest performing economies in the world”.

Mr Turnquest, during a press conference yesterday, said while The Bahamas is “fortunate” it wasn’t hit with a “double downgrade”

by Wall Street rating agency Moody’s Investor Service, the downgrade highlights the country’s “anaemic” economic growth and “does not portend well for the future of our economy and our economic stability.”

Mr Turnquest ultimately encouraged the Christie administration to be “religious” and “disciplined” in adhering to its own proposed consolidation plan, charging that the govern-

ment has thus far “disappointed not only the Bahamian people but obviously all of the ratings agencies with respect to what they’ve been able to achieve as compared to what they promised.”

Earlier this week, Moody’s announced that it has downgraded The Bahamas’ credit rating by one notch mainly because of the country’s “low mediumterm growth” prospects and limited fiscal space compared to similar countries.

The Wall Street ratings agency downgraded the country’s sovereign creditworthiness by a single notch, from Baa3 to Baa2 with a “stable outlook.”

Moody’s had previously opened the door to the possibility of downgrading the country’s sovereign credit worthiness by “one or more notches,” with a two-notch slash taking the country’s rating to ‘junk’ status.

State Minister for Finance Michael Halkitis subsequently said the Christie administration is “relieved” that Moody’s had decided

to only downgrade The Bahamas’ rating by a single notch, noting that economic developments over the next 12-18 months should improve the nation’s outlook.

“I take note of the minister of state for finance’s assessment of the downgrade in that we are fortunate that we did not receive a double downgrade to junk status,” Mr Turnquest said yesterday.

“However, we are now in the class of the lowest performing economies in the world. That is nothing to celebrate. We have some serious structural issues in our economy that need to be addressed. We have a growing debt that even despite the increase of taxation through VAT, we have not been able to arrest. “…Despite having increased taxes on the Bahamian people through value added tax we’re still incurring comparable levels of recurring deficit and as a result of that our national debt is continuing to escalate at an accelerated rate,”

he added. “Unless we can get our spending under control, unless we can implement fiscal policies and controls that are going to protect the government’s revenue, we’re going to continue to face challenges in terms of ratings and in terms of the stability of our economy.”

Mr Turnquest went on to lament the country’s “negative” economic growth, something he said is not likely to improve in the short to medium term, save for the eventual opening of Baha Mar, which is expected to provide a well needed boost to the country’s economy.

“If we’re lucky Baha Mar starts and we can pick up a little bit of steam from that,” he said. “But the reality is we’re struggling with anaemic growth, and at the

same time incurring debt in excess of that growth. This all does not portend well for the future of our economy and our economic stability.

“And so we’re grateful and certainly thankful that we didn’t get a double downgrade, however we encourage the government to stick to its proposed consolidation plan, to be religious about it and disciplined about it, because for the last four years they have disappointed not only the Bahamian people but obvi-

ously all of the ratings agencies with respect to what they’ve been able to achieve as compared to what they promised.”

On Tuesday, Mr Halkitis insisted that the government remains optimistic about The Bahamas’ economic future, adding that barring any “unforeseen circumstances,” the government now has anywhere from 18 to 24 months before Moody’s takes any further action and makes the needed improvements.

PAGE 6, Friday, August 26, 2016

Govt should have delayed until details could be disclosed

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMAS Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation Chairman Gowon Bowe suggested that if the government was not prepared to fully disclose all of the details regarding the new deal to open Baha Mar, officials should not have publicised movement on the negotiations until they were prepared to fully act transparently.

He told The Tribune yesterday that at this point there was a distinct need for the details surrounding concessions, any land related matters, taxes and fees regarding Baha Mar as this country does not have the proper policies in place for Bahamians to feel comfortable in the absence of this information.

Mr Bowe added that while there are those who remain jubilant that the wheels appear to be moving on the West Bay Street development, Bahamians

must be objective and see this as “just as announcement” at this point.

“In the Bahamas we get very high on highs and very low on lows, but it’s best not to get too jubilant at this point in time,” he said.

“In this situation we have to remain objective. What we have really at this point is just an announcement.

There haven’t been payments made to my knowledge or actual activity at the development site. What we should do is digest the news and then critique what we know and analyse what the intentions are.

“On the other side, not having the information is not a matter of trust. We are at an age where people can evaluate merits and demerits on their own. There has to always be the belief where the government will do what’s in the best interest of the people.

“However it makes it harder if I don’t know the information to believe that versus me knowing the needed information so that

I can give an educated observation.

“I would certainly encourage that information be disclosed and I do respect the receivers and their position that there are certain things they wouldn’t want out there.”

He added: “There is the distinct need for the details of this new deal like the concessions and other information that might have been foregone in terms of taxes and fees and other money owed to the government.

“We don’t have land or economic development and direct investment policies that are widely propagated. So it is hard to be able to judge where there are breeches.

“This is the largest project since Atlantis and if you look at it we were negotiating with one hand behind our back. The good news was that there was no barrier to negotiations but the bad new was that there was also no barrier.”

On Wednesday, Free National Movement Leader

Dr Hubert Minnis said the Official Opposition is “shocked and dismayed” the government sanctioned the decision to seal the Baha Mar court documents, adding that should the party become the next government, it would cancel parts of the agreement it found to be against the best interests of Bahamians.

Dr Minnis added that only dictatorial and corrupt governments carry out the

work of the country in the “dark of night.”

Shadow Minister of Labour Loretta Butler-Turner also castigated the Christie administration over the decision to seal the court documents relating to the new deal to open the shuttered resort, branding this as “deceptive” and “reprehensible” on all levels.

On Monday night, during a nationally televised address, Prime Minister Perry

THE TRIBUNE

Christie said an agreement had been reached between the government and the Export-Import Bank of China to remobilise the resort.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bahamian contractors still owed money will receive a significant portion, if not all, of their claims, while thousands of former Baha Mar employees will receive outstanding amounts due to them, he said.

FNM LEADER CALLS FOR MORE CLARITY OVER DEAL from page one

Dr Minnis also questioned whether or not the government has leased “thousands of acres of Bahamian land at a fire sale price to the Chinese” to further sweeten the deal for CEXIM. He also questioned if this latest deal with the Chinese is a final deal or “just another framework agreement.”

The Killarney MP also dismissed claims by lawyer Wayne Munroe, QC, that the temporary sealing of court documents related to the project is important to prevent the original developer Sarkis Izmirlian from sabotaging the deal, as Dr Minnis called Mr Izmirlian a “very respectable indi-

vidual” who “would do anything and everything possible” to see to Baha Mar’s completion.

During a press conference at FNM headquarters yesterday afternoon, Dr Minnis challenged the government to reveal the “nature and value” of the “additional tax breaks and concessions” allegedly made in “the secret under the table deal” with the Chinese over Baha Mar. He also said the “secret deal” is “positive proof” that Mr Christie “is willing to do anything to be re-elected,” even if it means putting the future of our Bahamas “in the hands of a country steeped in a foreign communist ideology and culture.”

“The Bahamian people have every right to see the agreement that you have executed in their name and on their behalf and we (the FNM) will use every legal avenue available to us to expose this evil,” Dr Minnis said.

He added: “The Bahamian people deserve leaders that do not hide behind closed doors, crafting secret deals and keeping the people from finding out what they did.”

Dr Minnis also dismissed assertions by Mr Munroe that the sealing of the documents was a smart move to prevent Mr Izmirlian from sabotaging the deal either directly or through his “cronies.”

“That’s his opinion,” Dr Minnis said in response. “I

think Mr Izmirlian is a very respectable individual in our society who has done good, prepared many Bahamians for the future, both in management and caring and getting them prepared not only for Baha Mar but for future developments and resorts within the Bahamas.

“I think he would do anything and everything possible to assist the Bahamian people and to assist the development and completion of Baha Mar, so I totally disagree with (Mr Munroe).”

During a nationally televised address on Monday night, Prime Minister Perry Christie said a deal had been reached between the government and CEXIM to remobilise the stalled

resort. Mr Christie said work is to begin in September with the resort expected to open before the end of the 2016/2017winter season.

Under the terms of the agreement announced by Mr Christie, CEXIM has committed to fund all remaining construction costs to complete the project.

Additionally, China Construction America (CCA), Baha Mar’s lead general contractor, would resume and complete construction, and then sell the property to a “world class hotel and casino operator.”

However, it was subsequently revealed that the court documents related to the deal have been sealed.

In May, allegations sur-

faced of a major request for concessions by CCA to jumpstart the stalled mega resort. The allegations were made by radio talk show host Steve McKinney, who claimed that CCA had requested that Mr Izmirlian be removed from the project, a 30-year exclusivity with regards to its casino license, a 30-year VAT exemption, a 25 per cent increase in concessions currently enjoyed by the resort, and the granting of 500 citizenships to Chinese nationals attached to the project in various capacities.

Those allegations were subsequently denied by Mr Christie, who said citizenship in return for foreign investment was a “nonnegotiable position” for his government.

creditors may submit their claims.”

The statement said Mr Christie outlined several facts during his national address on Baha Mar on Monday, including “the fact that construction at Baha Mar will be resumed as quickly as possible.

“The fact that the China EXIM Bank has committed to fund all remaining constructions costs to complete Baha Mar. The fact that we are making every effort to ensure that the casino and casino hotel, the convention centre and its hotel, and the golf course, will open before the end of the 2016-2017 winter season. The fact that the thousands of former Bahamian employees of Baha Mar will receive the following outstanding amounts due to them: unpaid salaries, severance pay, accrued vacation pay, and notice payments due to termination.”

It continued: “The fact that additionally, sums deducted from employees and former employees’ salaries and pension contributions will be repaid. The fact that funds will be made available to enable Bahamian creditors and contractors to receive a significant part, and possibly all of the value of their claims. The fact that Bahamians holding commercial leases and concessions, will be permitted to continue to hold them. The fact that many of the same people and companies who

were previously contracted will be re-engaged to complete the project.”

The statement also reiterated Mr Christie’s declaration that government run utility companies will receive payment for some of their outstanding claims against the Baha Mar companies.

The statement noted that the Baha Mar group of companies are all subject to ongoing liquidation proceedings, and as a result, are governed and supervised by the Supreme Court.

The government noted that Baha Mar, referring to the resort as the largest project ever of its kind in the region, is a complex, commercial transaction that requires significant attention to detail. The government, together with other stakeholders will continue to work to implement the obligations under the agreement, the statement said.

The mega resort was first scheduled for December 2014 opening, but was delayed to March 2015 and again to May 2015.

The project’s developer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States last June, however the matter was not recognised in The Bahamas.

The US court later through out the bankruptcy application related to Baha Mar’s Bahamian companies.

The property was placed into receivership last October.

GOVT: NO CITIZENSHIPS OFFERED from page one

“Nothing has been given by way of concessions that

has not been offered before to previous investors,” the government’s statement added.

It also stressed that the

government will extend “appropriate concessions to facilitate the construction and promote the successful future operation of

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the Baha Mar resort” and that resort will be sold to a “world-class” operator.

The Christie administration has been publicly castigated in recent days by members of the Official Opposition, other political parties and factions for the decision to have the court documents relating to the Baha Mar agreement sealed, with some going as far as to brand the move as “deceptive” and “reprehensible” on all levels.

However, responding to these arguments, the government’s statement insisted that the full details of the agreement were revealed to the court and subsequently ordered sealed.

“This is usual in matters of this kind so that sensitive negotiations may proceed and conclude in an orderly fashion, in the public interest,” the statement added.

It noted further: “As the prime minister said in his statement, remobilisation of the project will begin immediately. This has already started. The prime minister also said construction will begin next month.

Preparation is already underway.

“Arrangements for the transfer and the payout of creditor, including employee claims, are currently being finalised. In the coming days, further announcements will be made as to how employees and

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, Friday, August August 26,26, 2016, 2016, PAGE PAGE 7 7

PM: No secrecy over Baha Mar from page one

“As we debate Baha Mar, and they say they don’t believe me even though what I say has to be approved by the courts and held by the courts for the time being – people got to believe I’m stupid,” he said. “And when I say people, those who say that in all my years in public life, I would get up to the Bahamian people, speak to their future about Baha Mar which is the most complex, vexing issue that resulted in downgrading by Standard & Poor’s specifically and question marks by Moody’s, rating agencies, that I would get up and announce something that wasn’t true; the naivety of people in public life amazes me to the point where I question their fitness to serve.”

Sources told The Tribune Mr Christie was eager to “set the record straight” on Baha Mar, hence his comments.

His statements are unlikely to stop the criticism from opposition forces and others who have questioned the motives behind having the Supreme Court documents relating to the Baha Mar deal sealed.

However, some lawyers have noted that it’s not unusual to have documents sealed until negotiations have progressed beyond a sensitive stage.

As long as the documents are sealed, they say, it is not desirous to publicly disclose the information within them.

Mr Christie said: “Lawyers advised me that when you’re dealing with a matter that is predicated on huge inflows of capital into The Bahamas as a part of the agreement, you must restrain yourself until such time as the triggers in the agreement are pulled.

“Do I want to go through the vexation of people calling me names? As our society matures, as we wrestle with the proverbial mud of politics, we are strengthening our democracy, yes, but there comes a time when

PRIME Minister Perry Christie pictured during his national address on Baha Mar. how could a bankruptcy about: hope. That’s what turn into something posi- I’m talking about. And it tive outcome for the people knows no colour. It knows who are affected.” no politics. And that’s what’s critical about our Negotiations country, that we recognise “When we negotiated the that in a democratic counBaha Mar deal, our friends try there will be divisions, on the other side of the ta- but we don’t allow those ble knew there was no com- divisions to go so deep promise when it comes to that they challenge the protecting the interests of humanity of our country, Bahamians,” Mr Christie the continuum that should said. exist where we are all able “That is why everyone to operate together in the who had a franchise there belief that this country is and was Bahamian had for all of us and that we no chance in a new dis- must carry this obligation pensation coming out of forward in a way where bankruptcy of being able the political directorate, to retain the stall that they notwithstanding looming spent millions on. Every elections will understand Bahamian, every Baha- that when it’s my turn to mian who had an interest govern, one day it will be and spent money in there yours. That’s what democfor a franchise we have racy is all about.” protected that for them.

Before ending his 30 minThat’s what I’m talking ute speech, Mr Christie re-

people must try to understand the economy and the discussion and the conversation should be of how are we going to advance ourselves when you hear the International Monetary Fund speaking about productivity?

“When unions are faced with challenges, Sandals, it all ties together. We have an obligation as a country to advance the economy of The Bahamas, to be able to justify the existence of institutions like BTVI because young people who are trained must feel and have the hope that they are being trained to go into the workforce and do work. In all things the proof of the pudding is in the eating. So whatever is the element of secrecy and how it intrigues people, it has to come out.

And people will determine

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff turned to the topic of Baha to The Bahamas, you don’t Mar, emphasising that in- jump up and talk about it ternational organisations until such a time that your and the Bahamian people lawyers say it is now time will be able to see what his to talk. administration has negoti“Agreements negotiated ated. (are) predicated on huge “People of the world inflows of capital. I spent a are looking at Baha Mar,” year and a half staying in he said. “There is nothing my office at 1am because secret (about the deal). I 1am in the morning here know that when I sit at the is 1pm over there (China); negotiating table that the keeping staff in the office, IMF will look at what I ne- working, negotiating, cajolgotiated. I know that the ing to get the right result for rating agencies will look at the Bahamas, for Bahamiwhat I negotiated. I know ans who are owed millions I have to let the Bahamian of dollars, for Bahamians people know. who invested millions of “There’s no secrecy. dollars, for young people by There’s no intention for the thousands who need to that. But we have to rec- be paid, to have their penognise that The Bahamas sion rights collected to Nalives in a world where when tional Insurance, to have hundreds of millions of their rights collected to the dollars, like a billion dol- country, all of that. That’s lars, as part of an agree- what happens in today’s ment has to be transferred world.”

GOVERNANCE GROUP CONCERNED AT LACK OF TRANSPARENCY THE Organization for Responsible Governance has raised concerns about Prime Minister Perry Christie’s recent announcement of a deal with the Export-Import Bank of China to remobilise Baha Mar, noting that the agreement has not been transparent leaving many to question the long-term viability of the project.

The Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG) also said the government must be “cautiously aware of the number of key Bahamian assets that the Chinese government, their various agencies and offshore companies, own”.

In a press release, the not-for-profit foundation committed to improving accountability, education and the economy in the Bahamas said it is encouraged by the government’s announcement, but put forth a series of observations and comments about the matter.

“The lack of transparency around the agreement is gravely concerning,” ORG said. “It is every Bahamian’s right to know what concessions their government extends to any developer, as they will ultimately pay for these concessions.”

The organisation said although the Export-Import Bank of China and China Construction America, the resort’s general contractor, have agreed to complete the project, according to the prime minister, “the instalment of a number of reputable hotel brands (flags) is a critical missing component to the development.”

‘The government’s statements, to date, hold no mention of these. It is imperative that the owners and the government attract reputable flags immediately in order to provide much needed confidence to make the project successful and, more importantly, sustainable.

“Additionally, the advancement of construction without the involvement of such flags is concerning, as any reputable hotel brand will most likely require construction to be completed to their specifications and with their managements oversight.

Involvement of such flags late in the development stage will inevitably cost the developer and/or the flags more money, which will ultimately hurt returns on investment and levels of competitiveness.”

The statement added: “China, like any other respectful foreign direct investor, should be welcomed to invest responsibly in our economy and development.

However, it is imperative that any and all foreign investors in key industries maintain assets and operations at a high level and that these operations remain regionally and globally competitive in these industries.

“Many assets in the Bahamas, which are owned by Chinese government driven entities; such as hotels, shipping ports, airports, terminals, real-estate developments, are performing at sub-par levels which ultimately has a negative effect on the Bahamian GDP. “Most developed nations have control over the num-

ber of assets being held by any one group through trade commissions. This is of great importance to assure that its citizens and the nation are protected against unfair or underhanded dealings. Given its non-democratic structure, China, and its offshore companies, can act as one goliath company. This puts private businesses, from a market like the Bahamas, at a significant disadvantage. In theory, Chinese government driven entities could lower their rates to drive out competing businesses, making it virtually impossible for a privately owned company from a free market nation to compete.

The long-term success of the Bahamian economy is dependent upon a strong

and competitive environment for local businesses to exist alongside foreign development projects. The Bahamas cannot put all of our eggs into one basket.”

ORG Executive Director Matthew Aubry added: “If the report is accurate, the government is to be commended for working to ensure that all Bahamian creditors will be paid a sizable portion of amounts owed to them. However, in any stable modern society, citizens must understand what their leadership and government are doing. It is also incumbent on the government to properly and responsibly provide its citizens with information on all contracts and deals that it signs on the people’s behalf.”

ORG also stressed that it appears as if the current Baha Mar plan “is neither clear nor open and citizens are left wondering if this is a good and responsible deal for The Bahamas.”

“This lack of transparency casts a shadow on the potentially positive news that the government has stimulated activity on the Baha Mar project,” the group said. “ORG contends that, despite the claims by government, the long term viability of this project and its benefits to the Bahamian economy and workforce still remain in question.”

Under the terms of the agreement announced by Mr Christie on Monday, EXIM Bank has committed to fund all remaining construction costs to com-

plete the project.

Additionally, China Construction America (CCA) would resume and complete construction, and then sell the property to a “worldclass hotel and casino operator”.

Bahamian contractors still owed money will receive a significant part, if not all, of their claims, while thousands of former Baha Mar employees will receive outstanding amounts due to them, the prime minister also said.

However, Mr Christie stopped short of naming the operator tapped to buy the resort once completed.

The government has also come under fire after it was revealed that the Supreme Court documents related to the deal have been sealed.

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PAGE 8, Friday, August 26, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Christie’s Baha Mar deal leaves a sour taste in the mouth A Comic’s View

By INIGO ‘NAUGHTY’ ZENICAZELAYA

T

O the average Bahamian who follows major events in the country, this was a confusing week.

On the one hand, we were led to believe by members of the government that we should be happy that the Baha Mar deal is back on track. On the other hand, we learned that the credit rating agency Moody’s has downgraded us once again.

If you are one of the confused, allow me to crack a few mirrors and clear away some of the smoke. Because something stinks in Nassau. And I’m not just talking about the millions of rats running around that can only be exterminated by cars.

THE YEAR OF THE MONKEY February this year kicked off the ‘year of the monkey’ in China. Is it any wonder that less than a day after Prime Minister Christie announced that a deal had been reached with China EXIM bank to once again begin construction on the embattled Baha Mar project Bahamians began to suspect some monkey business going on?

I, for one, wanted to be jubilant. I wanted to think that after all these many months of Bahamian contractors being left out in the cold and thousands of former Baha Mar employees shlepping down to NIB

to collect unemployment there was hope on the horizon.

Sadly, I couldn’t bring myself to do it.

Now, if you are one of those Bahamians that loves the Progressive Liberal Party so much that you put on blinders and put in earplugs every time someone questions the actions of the party or our current Prime Minister, you may want to stop reading here.

You, my friend, live in La La Land. Not that I’m judging, mind you. I imagine things must be nice in La La Land. It must be a place where you can play dominoes under a big tree, fish to your heart’s content, down endless cold Kaliks and mash conch salad all day. I wouldn’t mind living in La La Land, but unfortunately I live in Bahamaland. And in Bahamaland strange things happen.

Strange deals happen. And the truth about these deals would probably burst the bubble of those living in La la Land.

Back to the monkey business.

A few months ago, I wrote in this column about strange rumours surrounding alleged concessions our government may have been entertaining in relation to Baha Mar. According to those rumours that were rampant in newspapers, talk shows and social media, China Construction America (and other Chinese entities involved in the project) allegedly sent our government a letter with

PERRY CHRISTIE, Prime Minister of The Bahamas, pictured with Denise Abrahamsen, representative of the Baha Mar former employees.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff a list of demands. Some of Chinese could ask for Baha Mar? We don’t know. dered to myself: Does the the alleged demands the anything but that doesn’t All we know is that we are cook really put her big toe Chinese asked for included mean he will approve it. ‘supposed’ to be happy in her pot? Is that the secret concessions on casino taxes He went on to talk about about this backroom deal formula? Do I like the taste and (worst of all) a pathway how some of those ‘na- struck in the dark. of random toes? What if her Honestly, it reminds me toenail fell off in the pot? to citizenship for 500 Chi- tions in the South’ may offer citizenship for sale but of an exchange I had with Are toenails healthy? nese nationals.

Back then, I wrote about that is not us. That is not some friends over a bowl of I only visited that resthe United States’ EB-5 what we do here in The chicken souse a few years taurant three more times ago. visa program that allows Bahamas. after that morning (Don’t That was back in June, After a night of hang- judge me, the souse was 10,000 non-Americans a ing out (read: chasing girls) really good.) Eventually, chance at jumping the citi- and this is now.

Now, we and bar hop- I decided that as good as zenship line simply by inthat ‘I wouldn’t mind ping (dis- it smelled, and as good as vesting a million bucks in know projects that directly em- Moody’s has living in La La Land, closure: this it tasted, I didn’t like not officially was before I knowing if what I thought ploy Americans. met my wife I was buying was what I Lo and behold, a short downgraded but unfortunately I credit live in Bahamaland. and ‘catch was actually getting. Some few days after that column our sense’), a things shouldn’t be left unwas published, our Prime rating. Now, And in Bahamaland know group of known. And nobody can Minister gave an evasive we us went to stomach foot flavoured comment about how the that Sandals strange things has made happen. Strange a popular souse, no matter how good hundreds of restaurant it tastes. deals happen. And Bahamians that makes And so it is with Baha the truth about redundant some of the Mar. I would like to enjoy right under these deals would best souse in this week’s ‘good news’, but Minister Nassau. We I, like many Bahamians, Shane Gib- probably burst the were hungry get the feeling someone has bubble of those son’s nose. (read: and been monkeying around So sud- living in La la Land.’ hungover), with the pot. Will the Prime denly, now, and ordered Minister come clean with we learn that five bowls of the Bahamian people? some sort of deal has been the most delicious chicken What concessions did this struck that will allow con- souse ever known to man. government approve on struction to begin on Baha As we gulped our meals, behalf of the Bahamian Mar post haste. What kind one of my friends remarked, people? Was citizenship of deal? We have no idea, “Boi, I don’t care if dem involved? Casino taxes conbecause the documents rumours true. Dis taste so cessions? pertaining to this ‘sweet’ good, if dat gyal does reBecause until I know deal have been sealed un- ally put her big toe in dis, I what we had to concede, no der court order. So what would still eat it!” bite. My lips are sealed. Just concessions did the governThis drew laughter from like those Baha Mar document agree to? We don’t the group. ments. know. Who will be the new But as I sat picking my I invite Mr Christie (who owners and operators of tasty chicken bones, I won- refused questions from the media at this week’s press conference) to tell us Individuals, Families what, exactly, is in the pot.

Please shed some light on & Corporate Sponsors the details of the wonderful Children Helping Children - $5 deal you made with China (Individual children from ages 6 - 18) EXIM bank. Dazzle us all Individuals Helping Children - $50 with brilliance, so we too (Individual adults 18 years and over) can head off to La La Land.

Families Helping Children - $100 Interestingly, Opposition leader Dr Hubert MinCIRCLE of FRIENDS nis this week warned the Silver: $1,500 - $2,499 Christie administration and Gold: $2,500 - $4,999 China EXIM bank that a Platinum: $5,000 plus Free National Movement government would change or cancel any part of this OPPORTUNITIES agreement that it finds not • Invitations to Ranfurly events to be in the interest of the • Assist with fundraising events Bahamian people.

• Involvement with special activities That part of his response • Adults are eligible to join the Board after three months Dr Minnis made crystal • Stay in touch with Ranfurly through clear. website and newsletters If the latest rumours running rampant on social meBENEFITS dia about what Mr Christie • Personal fulfillment in knowing you has agreed to are true, this are impacting lives stance by the opposition • Ranfurly children’s appreciation and may represent the last hope positive response for Bahamians who don’t • Continued support provides stability like being force fed wonton and constant care soup, toenails and all.

Until next week, bon appetit!!

CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF THE CHILDREN AT RANFURLY

T

he Ranfurly Homes for Children has been a safe haven for thousands of Bahamian children since 1956. The Home provides a safe, structured environment for children who have been orphaned, abused, neglected or abandoned.

YOU can make a difference in the lives of the children at Ranfurly. With your support children can have nutritious food, warm beds and a safe environment where they can discover the joy of being children. For years the children living and learning at Ranfurly have made great social and academic strides.

Their further development requires additional support in the form of a Transitional Home, planned for construction on the Ranfurly property.

This residence will cater to teenagers and young adults who are beyond school age, but need accommodation while they find work and gain independence from the Home.

We look forward to your continued support in this worthwhile endeavour.

MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES

For more information visit: www.ranfurlyhome.org Please “Like” us on Facebook Ranfurly Home for Children, Mackey Street P.O. Box 1413 Nassau, Bahamas 242-393-3115

• Inigo ‘Naughty’ Zenicazelaya is the resident standup comic at Jokers Wild Comedy Club at the Atlantis, Paradise Island, resort and presents ‘Mischief and Mayhem in da AM’ from 6am to 10am, Monday to Friday, and ‘The Press Box’ sports talk show on Sunday from 10am to 1pm on KISS FM 96.1. He also writes a sports column in The Tribune on Tuesday. Comments and questions to naughty@ tribunemedia.net

PAGE 10, Friday, August 26, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

MAN GRANTED BAIL AFTER TWO YEARS IN CUSTODY AWAITING MURDER TRIAL

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A MAN, who spent more than two years in custody awaiting trial on a murder charge, was granted bail in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Dominic Moss, 25, ap-

peared before Justice Bernard Turner for a decision from the judge on the former’s latest application for release from prison ahead of his April 23, 2014 trial, accused of slaying Renaldo Breynen.

Breynen, alias Scar, was in the area of Dunmore Street around noon that

day when he was shot and killed.

Moss pleaded not guilty to the murder when formally arraigned in the Supreme Court in September 2014.

He and his lawyer Ian Cargill had previously applied to Justice Turner for bail in May 2015 where Moss had been willing to submit him-

self to electronic monitoring of his movements and daily reporting conditions to a police station.

Justice Turner, however, had rejected the application and had given the accused an earlier date for trial, July 4, 2016.

The judge, yesterday, acknowledged that the trial

had not commenced as scheduled and was reset for June 2017, taking Moss’ case beyond the three-year statutory threshold of trial within a reasonable time set out by Parliament.

Justice Turner granted Moss $15,000 bail and ordered him to be electronically monitored.

“He is not to come in direct contact, either by himself or his agents, with any of the witnesses in this matter,” the judge stressed.

Justice Turner also imposed a daily 10pm to 6am curfew and thrice per week reporting conditions for Moss to the Elizabeth Estates police station.

Teens sorry for part in killing of schoolboy from page one The 17-year-old received a sentence of nine years after the judge took into account his time spent on remand and the fact that he pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

The 15-year-old was given a sentence of six months to be served at the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys.

Before their sentences were handed down, Justice Turner asked prosecutor Kristan Stubbs if the Crown would accept the pleas, which she did.

According to initial reports the victim was stabbed multiple times during an argument with several other students shortly after school was dismissed early because of exams. He died in hospital a short time later.

The incident took place around 2pm on Prince Charles Drive and a graphic cell phone video of the incident was spread on social media.

The prosecution alleged that the 17-year-old entered a fight between Wilson and the 18-year-old accused and stabbed Wilson. The 15-year-old, who had no weapon, allegedly tried to

MURDER victim Adonai Wilson, aged 16. involve himself in the fight equivocal guilty pleas” and formally convicted them acas well.

Justice Turner asked both cordingly.

Justice Turner asked boys if they agreed with the claims alleged by the pros- them if there was anything they wanted to say anyecution.

They said “yes” and the thing before a sentence was judge accepted their “un- passed on them.

Their lawyers indicated that they wished to say something to Wilson’s family.

The 17-year-old turned around in the prisoner’s dock to address the family and his parents seated at the back of court and said: “I only want you to know that I didn’t mean to do it and I only ask that you forgive me and accept my apology.”

The 15-year-old expressed a similar apology and was almost in tears.

“I apologise for the death of Adonai Wilson. I ask that you forgive me and accept my apology,” the boy said.

Mr Cargill told the judge that the mother of his 17-year-old client feels burdened by her insistence for her son to sit the final exams that semester even though he was set to move to the United States the following month to finish high school as a part of a fresh start from an environment where he lost his uncle and brother to gun violence.

“He’s an emotional wreck hence his wanting to leave this place. When he saw his cousin being beat up, he reacted without thinking. This has taken a heavy toll,” Mr Cargill added.

“He’s a very soft spoken and mannerly young man.

His mother and father have always come to court to support him. And he’s had no prior convictions or other pending matters before the court. His last average in school was almost a C+ and he was never suspended or expelled from school,” the lawyer stressed.

Meanwhile Mr Reckley, in his plea in mitigation, stressed to the judge the “tender age” of his 15-yearold client whom he said had “saved the court some time and numerous witnesses

from having to testify about aspects of what transpired.”

“This is so uncharacteristic of someone of an impeccable record,” Mr Reckley added.

He said it was unfortunate that another young member of society was lost and highlighted that his client has taken responsibility for his part.

“He’s a prime candidate for rehabilitation and he’s certainly remorseful,” the court was told.

Justice Turner addressed the 17 year old first.

“You were born within a few months before the dawn of the new millennium,” the judge said.

“We are now just 16 years into the new millennium and there were hopes and aspirations all members of society had for the shaping of society we wanted for our young people.”

“Your actions have led to the loss of one of those young men, which through no action of this court or yourself, can bring back,” Justice Turner noted.

The judge acknowledged the apology made to the family, noting that it “may be a slight comfort for you and a cold comfort to them.”

“Your counsel was eloquent in expressing the impact this had on you and the deferment of your dreams.

His reference to your academics places you above the ordinary students in society yet here you are to be sentenced for manslaughter for the killing of a child, a young person,” the court added.

In passing his sentence, the judge remarked that “no happy end can come from this matter.”

“Looking at the (case) authorities, this type of offence is to routinely carry in a range of 18 years. The court however shall have

regard to your age and the fact that you have pleaded guilty, not at the earliest opportunity but guilty nonetheless.”

“So from an 18-year sentence, three years is deducted for your age and another third (five years) from the remaining 15 for pleading guilty. The court is also mindful that you spent essentially a calendar year sentence in prison of eight months. I’d also be required to deduct that and that brings us to a sentence of nine years,” the judge said.

“You are 17 and you will be out, if you maintain good behaviour, nine years may effectively be six years.

You’ll be a young man still when you come out. You will have a chance again.

Mr Adonai Wilson’s life is at an end.”

“Take advantage of every opportunity at the prison.

You will have long days ahead of you to consider the loss of the young man’s life,” the judge stressed.

The sentence runs from the date of conviction.

As for the 15-year-old, the judge acknowledged his remorse, age and early plea of guilt.

He also noted that the boy had been on remand for nearly four months at the prison before his release on bail.

The judge imposed a sentence of six months for attempted causing harm.

That sentence, however, will be served at the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys.

The judge further ordered that upon his release from that institution, the teen be placed on probation until his 21st birthday.

The trial, meanwhile, continues with the 18-yearold who maintains his innocence of the murder charge laid against him.

He is represented by Murrio Ducille.

MEN AWAITING MURDER TRIAL APPEAR FOR HEARING

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

THREE men awaiting trial on a murder charge appeared in the Supreme Court for a status hearing yesterday.

Lynden Prosper, 26, D’Angelo Adderley, 26, and Denard Davis, 25, are scheduled to be tried before Justice Bernard Turner on Monday, August 29.

Prosper, Davis, and Adderley deny the murder and attempted murder charges

they face concerning the November 3, 2010 killing and attempted murder of Sheria Curry and her 10-year-old son Shanko Smith.

On the day in question, Ms Curry, a Step Street resident, and her son were sitting with a group of people outside their home when the incident occurred.

Curry was shot in the head and her son in the leg.

The 40-year-old died at the scene.

Yesterday’s status hear-

ing before Justice Turner concerned Adderley’s legal representation.

It was unclear up to the hearing who was counsel on record for him.

However, attorney Stanley Rolle noted his appointment by way of a Crown brief and was asked by the judge if he would be ready to proceed.

Mr Rolle said he would be.

Davis and Prosper have retained Murrio Ducille and Ian Cargill to defend them.

WOMAN HELD AFTER FATAL STABBING OF BOYFRIEND from page one “The woman was taken into custody by officers of

the Southeastern Division and is assisting police with their investigations. Right now we are treating this matter as a homicide.”

Police have not released the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

This homicide comes hours after a man who was shot during an argument in front of his home around 11pm on Tuesday died in hospital on Wednesday morning.

Chief Supt Fernander said police arrested a suspect in this matter around 1am on Thursday.

And in Grand Bahama, a man was shot dead in Freeport on Tuesday, pushing the homicide count on the island of Grand Bahama to 13 this year.

Anyone with information on any of these homicides is asked to contact police at 911 or 919, the Central Detective Unit at 502-9991 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 328-TIPS. Investigations into both matters continue.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, August 2016, PAGE Friday, August 26,26, 2016, PAGE 1111

PRIME Minister Perry Christie, Deputy Prime Minister Philip Davis, Minister of Education Jerome Fitzgerald and BTVI president Dr Robert Robertson took part in a ground breaking ceremony for a smart classroom block at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute.

Photos: Tim Clarke/Tribune Staff

Ground broken on $2.3m BTVI classroom building

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net A GROUNDBREAKING ceremony was held at the Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) yesterday to mark the construction of a $2.3m structure that will house the school’s first ever set of smart classrooms.

Prime Minister Perry Christie, Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis and Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald all attended the event, with Mr Christie saying this highprofile attendance highlights how valuable the government believes technical education is to the country.

The structure will be a 6,600 sq ft, two-story building that will feature eight

smart classrooms that can foster interactive learning while providing access to multi-media audio and visual systems.

There will be thermosafe panels so that walls, floors and the roof will be insulated to reduce cooling costs.

The smart classroom block is expected to be completed by the spring of 2017.

“The future of our economy depends heavily on the work those of you who are a part of what BTVI does,” Mr Christie said, noting that there is a constant need for people with certain technical skills to help sustain the country’s tourism sector.

Youth unemployment, in particular, he said, “represents an enormous challenge to the stability of the

BTVI prsident Dr Robert Robertson.

MINISTER of Education Jerome Fitzgerald.

country”, along with brain drain.

“When our neighbours have an unrestrained approach to recruiting the best and brightest to the United States of America, we are training people who are recruited to work in North America,” he said.

“So we have to continue to adapt to the modern ways of the world, to the innovations that are coming in. When you look at the process that we need in this area here, you’re talking about a building that will be two-stories, not requiring the traditional methodology of construction but a method that allows it to be built in months rather than years; technology that exists and that Bahamians must be aware of in terms of the learning process.”

PRIME Minister Perry Christie speaking at yesterday’s BTVI ground breaking ceremony.

PAGE 12, Friday, August 26, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

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FROM left, Tribune Managing Editor David Chappell, Chinese Ambassador Huang Qinguo, Tribune Editor/Publisher Eileen Carron and Tribune Media Group President Robert Carron during yesterday’s courtesy call by the ambassador to the newspaper’s offices.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

Kiwanis Club of Nassau AM Kiwanis Club of Nassau AM. - Members of Kiwanis Club of Nassau AM paid a courtesy call on Minister of Social Services and Community Development Melanie Griffin at the ministry on Friday, August 5.

To find out more about club activities, like us on Facebook at Kiwanis Club of Nassau AM.

Rotary Clubs of Nassau/East Nassau Rotary Clubs of Nassau and East Nassau. - If you enjoy wine, doing good in the world, and mingling with positive minded community leaders then you

don’t want to miss “A Taste of Wine and Rotary”.

The Rotary Clubs of Nassau and East Nassau are hosting a wine tasting event on Saturday, September 3, from 6-9pm at Premier Cru on Gladstone Road.

Tickets are presold at $30 and are required for entry.

No tickets will be sold at the door. Tickets can be purchased at Geoffrey Jones & Co on Rosetta Street in Palmdale or from one of the clubs before their weekly meeting.

Come during fellowship between 12:30pm and 1pm to purchase a ticket or stay for the meeting (1pm-2pm).

The speaker on August 26 at the Rotary Club of East Nassau, meeting at the Nassau Yacht Club, is Ministry of Tourism director general Joy Jibrilu.

The speaker on August 30 at the Rotary Club of

Nassau, meeting upstairs at Lucianos, is club president Sam Boodie who’ll review the club’s plan for the year which will include a summary of projects supported by the club.

For questions, contact DianeDeCardenas@gmail. com.

JOIN THE CLUB OUR Clubs and Societies page is a chance for you to share your group’s activities with our readers.

To feature on our Clubs and Societies page, submit your report to clubs@ tribunemedia.net, with “Clubs Page” written in the subject line.

For more information about the page, contact Stephen Hunt on 5022373 or 447-3565.

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