WEDNESDAY i’m lovin’ it!
HIGH 78ºF LOW 64ºF
The Tribune Established 1903
24/7 BREAKING NEWS ON TRIBUNE242.COM
Biggest And Best!
VOLUME:115 No.38, JANUARY 17TH, 2018
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1
TIME TO FACE THE INEVITABLE ON STATE PENSIONS - PAGE TEN
Progress - but we have to do better
NUMBER’S UP FOR NEW WEB SHOPS By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Government has placed a ban on opening new web shop locations, a Cabinet Minister yesterday suggesting gaming advances could ultimately make physical sites “obsolete”. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
Crime rate falls despite 10 percent jump in murders By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net OVERALL crime in the country declined by 13 percent in 2017 compared with 2016, according to Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson, however murders during this period jumped by 10 percent. Commissioner Ferguson said police were challenged by “bolder” criminals, gang violence and retaliation killings which contributed to the increase in murders last year. Still he touted the work of law enforcement, saying overall crime in the country
is trending downward. While unveiling the RBPF’s crime statistics for last year, Commissioner Ferguson said in 2017 there were 122 recorded incidents. New Providence recorded 104 murders, Grand Bahama 11, Abaco three and one each in Acklins, Bimini, Cat Island and Long Island, police said. Twenty-six of these were retaliation killings, 27 gangrelated, 15 classified as conflicts, 13 drug-related, seven related to robberies, 14 the result of domestic incidents and 27 had undetermined motives. SEE PAGE SIX
INDEPENDENT BODY ON POLICE COMPLAINTS By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net
AN independent internal review board has been initiated to oversee all complaints against police officers, Deputy Police Commissioner Emrick Seymour announced yesterday, as he insisted the police are capable of policing themselves. Deputy Commissioner Seymour said this board will have the authority to select any complaint against
police for further review to ensure due process is followed. In 2017, there were 197 complaints made against Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) officers by members of the public. While this represents a five percent decline from 2016’s 208 complaints, the deputy commissioner said discipline needs to be maintained in the organisation. The announcement came amid press inquiries based SEE PAGE SIX
COMMISSIONER of Police Anthony Ferguson at yesterday’s press conference with his executive board to release crime statistics for 2017. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff
SANDS AIMS TO TACKLE ‘HORRIBLE’ HEALTHCARE
‘CLERK GAVE BANK MORE THAN HER ANNUAL PAY’
EMERGENCY services throughout the country will undergo “major changes very soon,” according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands, who once again decried the “horrible realities” of the public health care system.
SUPREME Court jurors heard yesterday how within one year, former College of The Bahamas (COB) employee Chimeka Gibbs received some $4,000 extra in payroll deposits from the college on top of her $30,000 salary. SEE PAGE THREE
By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net
Speaking to reporters before a Cabinet meeting yesterday, Dr Sands said the improvements include completely renovating the Emergency department at Princess Margaret Hospital, the redeployment of staff, new modern equipment and the creation of satellite urgent care centres at the South Beach and Elizabeth Estates Clinics.
Initially, he said, the cost was expected to be around $2m, however Dr Sands said because “the needs are so great,” that cost has rocketed to $5m. “We have to do things differently if we are going to impact the horrible health realities of The Bahamas,” Dr Sands said. SEE PAGE THREE
MUM-TO-BE’S DETENTION ORDEAL By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
FOR 16 days, newlyexpectant Haitian mother Mirlene Corvil was detained at the Carmichael Road Detention Centre, pictured, where she claims she suffered daily from morning sickness and anxiety attacks in unsanitary, inhumane and degrading conditions.
The 25-yearold alleges her arrest and detention by Immigration officers for more than two weeks occurred even though she was awaiting a determination on her spousal residence permit and had
entered the country lawfully. Details of her ordeal are contained in an affidavit filed yesterday in support of her habeas corpus application. SEE PAGE FIVE
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net
WE DON’T ALWAYS HAVE TO BE AFRAID
SEE PAGE EIGHT
PAGE 2, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
THE REVEREND Christopher Roberts, president of the RM Bailey Alumni Association, hosts a press conference yesterday with other executives from the association along with students to recognise RM Bailey’s 50th anniversary. They discussed the school’s history, its impact on society and notable Bahamians who graduated from the school. Pictured speaking is Edward Smith, chairman of the events committee at RM Bailey Alumni Association. Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff
RM Bailey to mark 50th anniversary RM BAILEY Senior High School, in partnership with its alumni association, will host the official launch of its 50th anniversary celebration events with a church service this Sunday at Cousin McPhee Cathedral on Carmichael Road. Minister of Education Jeffrey Lloyd will attend the church service and bring remarks. The alumni association held a press conference yesterday to announce a series of events to mark its 50th anniversary. A press release from a school official said: “The objective of the initiative is to celebrate the school and its students’ accomplishments and service to the community over the past 50 years in a collective spirit of thanksgiving and praise commencing with the launch of the events via the church service.” The 50th anniversary celebration will include the following events: a walk-a-thon; principal’s appreciation service and t-shirt day; float parade; homecoming; bowling tournament; community service day and a JOSEPH SMITH, deputy head boy, speaking red ball. Sunday’s church service starts at 3.30pm. about his experience at the school.
3,000 SCREENED FOR TB IN ELEUTHERA By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
HEALTH officials have concluded tuberculosis (TB) screenings of more than 3,000 residents in Eleuthera, diagnosing only four active cases, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands. In an interview yesterday, Dr Sands further revealed that additional screenings at R M Bailey and the Carmichael Road Detention Centre resulted in no new cases. In November, the Elizabeth MP in a parliamentary address revealed multiple cases at the school and one in a former detainee at the Carmichael Detention Centre. Additionally, 235 people in Eleuthera had positive Mantoux tests and about “25 or so” had
suspicious chest X-rays, he said. Dr Sands later revealed there were 100 confirmed cases of TB on Eleuthera. He also said last November there were 15 cases of TB on Exuma but added it was unclear if those cases on the two islands are latent or active. Yesterday, Dr Sands said: “I am pleased to say that there are less than four active cases of TB. We didn’t find any new active cases of TB at the Detention Centre or at R M Bailey and so, while there are a number of people that were exposed - and all of them are on prophylaxis, meaning two drugs for TB - there were no additional cases for TB other than the few that we found in Eleuthera.” Of the cases in Eleuthera, Dr Sands said “those people were admitted to hospital and treated”.
Asked if the government was concerned by the data, Dr Sands said there is always a “baseline” level of TB cases in The Bahamas, adding that month to month suspected cases are reported and investigated, but often rarely result in positive diagnoses. TB is one of the top ten causes of death worldwide. It is an infectious disease that generally affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. Most infections do not have symptoms. If left untreated when it becomes active, the disease kills about half of those infected, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Anyone with questions on TB is asked to call the Ministry of Health’s Surveillance Unit at 376-1103, 376-3970 or 502-4705.
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 3
Sands aims to tackle ‘horrible’ healthcare
from page one “The major project that is underway is the redevelopment of emergency services throughout the Bahamas, that includes renovations, redeployment of staff, new equipment at PMH and the simultaneous creation of satellite urgent care centres at South Beach and Elizabeth Estates and then also tying in emergency care evacuation and transportation and other services throughout The Bahamas,” Dr Sands said. “We have identified a working team. The architects are already engaged, we are doing the costing and this is a major approach to relieving a vexing problem. “Looking at numbers, they keep going up. We wanted to keep it at less than $2m and I am sure the PHA will have a weeping and gnashing of teeth because the price seems to keep going up in order to accomplish what we need to do. But we are going to try and
keep it a $5m for total renovation of Elizabeth Estates, renovation of South Beach, new staff, new equipment plus the renovation of Accident and Emergency. “This administration has also committed to a brand new maternal child health wing and emergency room and so we can’t spend too much money but at the same time that is not going to happen tomorrow and the needs are great today.” Dr Sands said his ministry is also exploring the option of moving some of the best doctors from PMH and relocating them into government clinics, to remove some of the pressure from the hospital. Dr Sands also said the government is currently going through a list of more than 500 recommendations on how to improve the cost of health care in the country. He said with the new changes and the improvements to healthcare, “someone will have to pay for it,” but did not elaborate further.
DR DUANE SANDS, Minister of Health.
Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff
MINNIS SUPPORTS CARICOM CONDEMNATION OF TRUMP By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold said the Minnis administration supports CARICOM’s condemnation of the disparaging comments US President Donald Trump reportedly made about Haiti, Africa and El Salvador last week. He could not say, however, whether the administration had any input in drafting the statement or if it knew beforehand that
CARICOM, which represents Caribbean interests, intended to make the statement. He was asked about the matter yesterday after Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader Philip “Brave” Davis complained the administration should have released a separate statement condemning Mr Trump’s remark, not hiding behind CARICOM’s statement. Mr Newbold did not respond directly to Mr Davis’ assertion yesterday, saying: “He’s the leader of the opposition, he can voice
his opinion, but he’s the leader of the opposition.” He continued: “Government of The Bahamas stands with the position taken by CARICOM. I didn’t have that conversation with the PM (on the Bahamas’ involvement in the statement), but that is the position that The Bahamas government will take.” According to US reports, President Trump questioned during a recent meeting at the White House why the country is “having all these people from shithole
‘CLERK GAVE BANK MORE THAN HER ANNUAL PAY’ from page one
Indira Rolle, Scotiabank’s senior manager for service and support, taking the witness stand before Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson, said Gibbs received a total of $36,547.40 in COB payroll deposits to one of her Scotiabank savings accounts in 2010. That figure, Ms Rolle said, was $4,237.40 more than the $32,310 she earned per year while serving as a human resources assistant at the college. Gibbs’ salary information was contained in a job letter from COB dated May 24, 2011. Ms Rolle, in breaking down Gibbs’ financial information via various financial documents at the Crown’s direction, said at different times, Gibbs’ Scotiabank account would receive deposits of up to $4,000 from the Bank of The Bahamas (BOB). Such was the case from as far back as November 24, 2009, when $3,000 was deposited on her account, straight up to May 26, 2011, when $4,000 was deposited. This, notwithstanding Gibbs having a standing order for $500 of her earnings to be deposited from one savings account to another. According to Gibbs’ April 27, 2011, pay slip, she also had salary deductions with other banks: $111.74 to Commonwealth Bank and $1,877.29 to CIBC FirstCaribbean in Palmdale. Ms Rolle also said $245.84 of Gibbs’ salary was to be paid to Scotiabank to satisfy a loan she took out. Prior to Ms Rolle taking the witness stand, Toriano Lloyd, relationship manager at Royal Bank FINCO, testified how between May 2014 and November 2015, Gibbs made monthly payments of up to $1,295.93 to satisfy a $104,500 mortgage with that institution. The last payment on that
mortgage was made on November 24, 2015, in the amount of $1,295.92. Gibbs is on trial over allegations she stole thousands of dollars between March 2008 and October 2015 while serving as an employee at COB. She is facing eight counts of stealing by reason of employment and 16 counts of falsification of accounts. It is alleged that Gibbs stole over $500,000 from COB by reason of her employment at the institution. It is also alleged she falsified numerous COB
direct deposit files, the result of which purported to show she was entitled to over $200,000 in salary payments. According to court documents, Gibbs served as both a senior clerk and a human resources assistant at the college. She was arraigned in June 2016. COB transitioned into a university later that year. Roger Gomez represents Gibbs while Al-Leecia Delancey and Antania Rolle-Taylor represent the Crown. The trial continues.
NOTICE This is to inform our Clients that Mrs. Teresa Symonette is no longer employed by Executive Printers Ltd. ALL ORDERS & ENQUIRIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO:
Email: sales@epbahamas.com Phone: 393-5011/2, 393-8267/393-0948 or Fax: 394-7895. We Appreciate Your Business.
LIFE CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE
Would like to inform the public that all our lines are down, please call us on 636-0152
countries come here?” He suggested the country should bring people from countries like Norway, not Haiti. In a statement over the weekend, CARICOM said: “CARICOM condemns in the strongest terms, the unenlightened views reportedly expressed. “Of additional concern is this pattern of denigrating Haiti and its citizens in what seems to be a concerted attempt to perpetuate a negative narrative of the country. “We are especially saddened that such a narrative
emerged around the time of the anniversary of the devastating 2010 earthquake, which took so many lives of citizens in that country. “The Caribbean Community expresses its full support for the dignified statement of the government of the Republic of Haiti in reaction to this highly offensive reference. “It should be recalled that Haiti is the second democracy in the Western Hemisphere after the United States, and that Haitians continue to contribute significantly in many
spheres to the global community and particularly to the United States of America. “CARICOM therefore views this insult to the character of the countries named and their citizens as totally unacceptable.” Mr Trump has since denied he used the offensive expletive, but said he did use tough language at the immigration meeting. However a Democratic lawmaker who was in the room at the time confirmed Mr Trump used the offensive words that were reported.
PAGE 4, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
The Tribune Limited NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH,
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH,
THE TRIBUNE
jrolle@tribunemedia.net
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914 Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972 Contributing Editor 1972-1991
EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON,
C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B. Publisher/Editor 1972-
Published daily Monday to Friday
Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207 TELEPHONES
News & General Information Advertising Manager Circulation Department Nassau fax Freeport, Grand Bahama Freeport fax
(242) 322-1986 (242) 502-2394 (242) 502-2386 (242) 328-2398 (242)-352-6608 (242) 352-9348
WEBSITE, TWITTER & FACEBOOK www.tribune242.com
@tribune242
tribune news network
An accident waiting to happen ON Sunday, January 7, two small motorbikes were traveling west on Bay Street from the heart of downtown to Cable Beach. Each bike was driven by a male with a female rider behind him. Both drivers drove as if they had never driven a motorbike before. Average speed never hit 10mph. And because their route took them through single lane traffic all the way from east of the Hilton to Saunders Beach area and continuing west, the visiting couples who rode one bike behind the other in the middle of the lane held up dozens of cars behind them which were unable to pass because of oncoming traffic. As they approached the roundabout by Prospect Ridge - where the single lane turns into a dual carriageway - the inevitable happened. One of the bikes crashed. The view they got of the Baha Mar golf course was from the ground with the bike’s spinning wheels on top of them, a view and an experience they are unlikely to forget. This accident was just the latest in a litany of incidents that land visitors in hospital or send ambulances to their rescue day after day in the capital. A doctor who has had experience in Emergency at both Doctors Hospital and PMH said he lost count of the number of times he has treated victims of motorbike accidents. Often it is cuts and bruises, but he has seen far worse, including broken bones on a regular basis, internal injuries, serious burns. And he has seen death. Allowing individuals who visit The Bahamas to hop on a motorbike without a motorcycle licence or evidence of riding experience and take off in traffic driving on the left hand side of the road when, in all probability, they follow American or Canadian traffic rules is nothing short of reckless and borders on insane foolishness. For the sake of a few dollars, are we so careless that we allow the practice of untrained guests in our country to take their safety into their own hands when we know the dangers? Or are we just not giving it enough thought? We think, ‘Isn’t it cute? They get off a cruise ship, rent a bike for a few dollars, tour the island, take selfies, post them.’ All fun and games, except it is not. That is why in most other destinations, in order to rent a motorcycle you must have a valid motorcycle licence. Even in other ports which are frequently part of the same cruise itinerary which brings
them to Nassau. In Puerto Rico, to rent a motorcycle, you have to have a valid motorcycle licence and a year of experience in heavyweight cycles. California, Florida, Nebraska all have particular requirements and in the UK, you have to take a motorcycle course and pass two tests, one on theory, the other a practical. Yes, there are a few places in the world as lax about the practice as we are. Hawaii is one. But with six million visitors a year and bad experiences blowing up on social media faster than you can say ‘Watch out’ we should be watching out for what we allow to happen on our streets. We are not suggesting the scooter or motorbike businesses fold their tents. Quite the opposite. We believe with better regulations and proper procedures in place, cycling can reach a different level in The Bahamas where the terrain is flat and the views often breathtaking. Well-run motorcycle businesses could create cycle tours and special routes, organise events and attract experienced riders who prefer a motorcycle over a scooter that has a horsepower capacity of less than 150cc. Vespas and the classic Honda 50 or 90cc are fun and fuel-efficient for those who live in The Bahamas and are accustomed and licenced to drive on the left, but they should not be the vehicle of choice for the unexperienced on a twowheeler with an engine and for whom even a car presents challenges because of roundabouts, lack of directional signage and left hand driving. On top of that we have the additional challenge of the three- and four-wheel open motorised vehicle and our concern grows deeper. According to the FIA, the official international motorsport authority, motor vehicle accident average costs are staggering. The average cost for each death in a motor vehicle accident is $1,130,000. Average cost for each non-fatal disabling injury is $61,600. Average cost for each property damage crash including non-disabling injuries is $7,500. We hope the couple who crashed on West Bay Street just a bit shy of the Office of the Prime Minister did not suffer greatly and that what happened to them serves to help spark a national conversation that catches the attention of both the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Tourism.
Plea to employers EDITOR, The Tribune. I BEG your indulgence in allowing me to commend first of all, The Minister of Labour, Hon Dion Foulkes, and the Department of Labour for its initiative “Labour on The Blocks”, a job recruitment and registration drive which seeks to match job seekers with potential job opportunities. We took the initiative many years ago in the Killarney constituency to develop a Job Assistance Programme, which has now evolved into four Job
Seekers WhatsApp Groups, currently comprised of 864 members from various constituencies in the Bahamas including the Family Islands. For many, the struggle to find jobs is real. My plea is to the Business Community. It has always been easy to register job seekers but a lot more difficult to get the participation of employers in ventures like these. Statistics in some areas indicate that up to 80 percent of Job Openings are never Advertised! Most people are hired by word
Hot at the Fish Fry EDITOR, The Tribune.
Re:Where’s The Proof On Fish Fry Alert? The Tribune, January 12, 2018. WANT proof? ----- Why not just go there some night! KEN W KNOWLES, MD Nassau, January 14, 2018.
of mouth or recommendation. What this means, is that many qualified persons are never even given a chance to apply. The common complaint is “it’s who ‘ya’ know”. On behalf of job seekers everywhere, I am requesting that every human resource manager/employer in The Bahamas, including every Government Department, go online and register with the Department of Labour, then post job openings as they become available. The Department of Labour has promised to not only match your openings to persons who are qualified but to vet them and offer a place away from your business to conduct your own interviews. Both employers and employees can register online at: https://jobseekers. bahamas.gov.bs If you own a business, please do your part to assist those in our community who only want a chance to make a decent living and have a better way of life. BARBARA WILSON Nassau, January 9, 2018.
The magic nolle EDITOR. The Tribune. LOST in the ongoing debate over the imaginary monarchical powers of the Prime Minister is any serious public-policy discussion over who may or may not have access to tourists on public beaches. There is currently a matter before the court over the fate of informal vendors who were arrested following an altercation during their eviction from a beach and/or their subsequent protest action to block access to the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge. The vendors got the public attention they wanted back in March 2016 followed quickly by the summons that they definitely did not want. It is sound advice not to speak to issues sub judice (under judicial consideration) but apparently some in public life seem to have forgotten this wise admonition. Accordingly, the matter will not be discussed here. During pupilage, law students sometimes wonder if they had mistakenly stumbled into a foreign language class. Latin phraseology and terminology comes fast and furious in law school, especially during criminal law discussions. It helps students to quickly grasp the inescapable fact that the law has been around a long time. The Romans (who spoke Latin) had a go at it around 753 BC when Rome was founded by King Romulus, the first of its seven kings each of whom was styled Chief Magistrate of the Kingdom. Egyptian law goes back even further to 3000 BC. The legal fraternity today, in an odious case of elitism, wraps itself in Latin phraseology even in cases where the English translation would be more practical. Lawyers do it to enforce an atmosphere of rarefied air in a world where only they and judges dwell. Even parliament, a playground for lawyers, flaunts Latin words. There are so many Latin words in common use today that some think they are English. Words like ad hoc, alibi, caveat, innuendo and yes, referendum, are Latin. Catholics used to say mass in Latin and it was taught in some elite schools. The latest Latin phrase in use today is the nolle prosequi, or the withdrawal of proceedings in a court matter. The nolle is almost as ancient as the law itself but for our reference we need to go back no further than the 16th century to find its first practicable use in England. It is not by accident that
is required for judicial appointments, etc. The Executive branch can rack and stack judges on the letters@tribunemedia.net bench but it mustn’t try to our constitution singles hijack them. The vendors whose out the Attorney General as the government’s chief matter is being adjudicated advisor on legal matters. right now could be forgiven It also cloaks the AG in for thinking that a simple a blanket of tremendous stroke of an Executive branch pen could exonerate power in legal affairs. Prosecutors have the them before they have their right to recommend to the day in court, or even after, AG to drop a case, most as they may have been likely because of lack of promised. What they should be evidence or because they believe what evidence that pushing the government may exist will not stand up for is a review of the policy in court. In order words, covering access by inforthe accused would most mal retailers to tourists in likely be acquitted at trial public places like beaches. so why waste the court’s Offering hair braiding sertime and the crown’s scarce vices or selling trinkets to tourists as they sun-bathe resources. Nolles are also presented on our beaches may sound in cases of diminished like grass-roots entreprecapacity, mental or physi- neurism to some, but to cal. If the accused lacks the others it’s harassment and a capacity to participate in nuisance. Tourists generally want his own defense then, on compassionate grounds, a to be left alone to enjoy recommendation could be their vacation. Additionmade not to proceed with ally, it could be seen as prosecution. Legal purists being unfair competition to tend to think that this was legitimate retailers who pay the original intent of this big money to the resorts for the privilege of having technicality. The process is so drawn direct access to tourists in out that it can leave death controlled environments or as the fastest way for an to other vendors who have to pay for their stalls in the accused to receive a nolle. Recently we heard market. Today we need to be former PLP Attorney General Allyson Maynard overly concerned about Gibson spilling crocodile tourist safety and that tears defending her rather means the hotels and the robust use of the nolle. police being at least aware The subsequent noise that of the goings-on at the followed her intervention beach. Hotel managers trended towards the old need to be able to promote canard that throwing out their properties as safe cases helped improve the havens free from crime and harassment, sun-drenched court’s back-log. More judges, pros- oases with unobtrusive ecutors, court and police security, not garrisons. This could mean some personnel will help deal with back-log. Justice form of registration of who delayed is a serious matter can sell at the beach and and it must be addressed the promulgation of a set of promptly by means other rules to determine how and than the unwarranted nolle. when they get access and But Mrs Gibson made a what they can sell as well valid point about the very as codes of conduct and of nature of the nolle. No one dress. The hotels, Tourism should doubt that she had the right to stop those cases Ministry, police, vendors, and she didn’t need the power-boat and jet-ski recommendation of pros- operators as well as others may all want to add their ecutors to do so. The biggest problem with unique ingredients to make the nolle is that around the this cake. In the end, what should world it is perceived to be a rich man’s get out of jail be made abundantly clear is card. Very seldom do poor that trying to make a living defendants get their cases in this country is not against dropped. That should be the law. However, certain actions taken in pursuit of worrying to us all. In no case can a poli- that objective just might be. And if anyone actually tician compel a court to do anything. The Judici- believes that a politician ary is an equal leg of the can wave a magic wand tripod that government and make a court matter stands on. When invited to disappear, then they probreview a matter, courts can ably stood in line for Santa dictate to the executive. Claus last month and are Neither the Executive nor eagerly awaiting the Easter the Legislative branches Bunny. can dictate to the court, THE GRADUATE leaving aside the antithetiNassau, cal aspects of our system January 16, 2018 where executive assent
LETTERS
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 5
Mum-to-be’s detention ordeal from page one “This experience was a sheer nightmare,” her affidavit read. “I would not wish this on my worst enemy. I was a professional secretary employed to a radio station in Haiti and I never dreamt I would be subjected to that kind of treatment. I was never arrested before. I felt very disheartened that I was being treated as a common criminal and this was most horrifying to me. It continued: “I cried myself to sleep every night. I could see the hatred and disdain for Haitians in how the immigration respondents spoke to us and how they behaved towards us. I felt disrespected and that hurt me deeply so I cried even more. I cried all day.” Ms Corvil, two months pregnant at the time of her arrest, is one of the 11 detainees released from the facility by court order last month. Ms Corvil explained her initial affidavit was sworn on her behalf by Callenders & Co law firm’s legal assistant Wislande Geffrard because she could not speak English, but is able to read and write the language. Her affidavit read: “I spent 16 days in very unsanitary, inhumane and degrading conditions. For the first few nights I slept on a mattress on the floor. There was a sheet on the mattress but none to cover with and it was very cold. It was extremely uncomfortable to sleep on the floor especially being pregnant. “... We tried our best to clean the dorm and we took turns, Haitians and Jamaicans to keep the place clean. No one knew how long we would be there so we had to make the best of our situation, despite how humiliating and horrifying it was. I could not stop crying.” While in detention, Ms Corvil said she feared she would be deported once officials at the CRDC discovered she had hired an attorney. She expressed concerns that she is now being victimised following her release because she has been unable to sign-in as ordered by the court for the past week; and fears that her spousal permit application will be declined as retribution for taking legal action. In her affidavit, Ms Corvil states she entered the
country legally on July 10, 2017, after her stepfather applied in Haiti for a visitor’s visa. Her stepfather, a permanent resident, and her mother, who holds a general work permit, have been residing in The Bahamas for ten and 15 years respectfully. She explained she travelled to the country after a year-long courtship with Bahamian Tristian Rolle, 31, who proposed to her during her visit. The pair were married on August 3, 2017, before Pastor James Sweeting of Church of Christ, according to an attached copy of the marriage certificate. At the expiration of her stay, Ms Corvil applied for and was granted an extension of her visitor’s status to September 8, 2017. She said she visited the department to apply for a further extension but was told to return after the passage of Hurricane Irma. Ms Corvil and her husband submitted their application for a resident spousal permit on October 13 and received an acceptance slip. During an interview two weeks later, Ms Corvil claimed the immigration officer discontinued the interview after discovering her extension had expired and sent the couple to another floor within the building to another officer to first get a further extension. However, she alleges the officer on the third floor confiscated her passport and told her to first purchase a return ticket to Haiti before coming back to the department. Ms Corvil states her husband could not afford the ticket, so took up a fishing job to earn extra money for her to return to Haiti until the spousal permit was approved. She alleges she was arrested by Immigration officers “for not having documents” on December 4, the same day her husband left for a fishing trip, even though she presented copies of her documents and her receipt from Immigration. At the CRDC, she was taken to a dorm with 75 women, a number she claims dramatically reduced to 21 after a few days. She said she wore the same clothes and went without underwear for four days until she was able to have food and supplies sent to the Detention Centre by her mother. Ms Corvil said she was unable to speak with her
THE DETENTION centre at Carmichael Road, where Mirlene Corvil was held for 16 days even though she says she was waiting for her spousal residence permit to be processed and had entered the country lawfully. husband for the duration of her detention, which made her feel “hopeless, frustrated and terrified” because no one at the CRDC could speak Creole and were unable to communicate effectively with her. She detailed poor quality food that smelled spoilt, clogged toilets and shower drains and a complete lack of privacy with open bathrooms. Since her release, Ms Corvil said she returned to the CRDC on January 12 to retrieve her confiscated belongings: a handbag, belt, mobile phone, $250 cash and her clothes. However, she alleges her money was stolen from her bag while at the security post. “I was deeply disappointed and angry because that was all the money I had. I could not believe after being deprived my personal liberty, my money was also stolen.” Ms Corvil and a dozen other migrants are challenging the legality of their detention at the CRDC. Supreme Court Justice Gregory Hilton set bail at $1,000 and ordered them to report to the Department of Immigration once a week every Wednesday until their hearing on January 19.
NEWBOLD: STAY TUNED ON IMMIGRATION By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net WITH no sign the government is more aggressively enforcing the country’s immigration laws despite the passing of the December 31, 2017, deadline for illegal immigrants to leave, Press Secretary Anthony Newbold said critics “should just stay tuned”. Since the start of the year, the Minnis administration’s strategy for ramped up efforts to apprehend illegal immigrants has been unclear. Some Haitians in the Bahamas have said
they have observed no increased activity and the pace of the Department of Immigration’s processing of applications has not improved. “They should just wait for the immigration people to come and see them,” Mr Newbold said during his weekly press briefing yesterday. “According to the minister responsible for immigration, (improved processing of applications) has been done and they are dealing with (that). Is it at the level it ought to be, probably not but according to the minister they are dealing with that. We say what we want and it
happens and everybody gets upset. I’m sure you’ll be hearing some more from the minister of immigration.” Asked if apprehension activities have changed since the passing of the December 31 deadline, Mr Newbold said: “I couldn’t tell you that. I know that the minister of immigration is dealing with whatever needs to happen; he’s dealing with it.” In October, during a Parliament session, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis warned all illegal migrants they had until the end of 2017 leave the country, after which they would be “aggressively pursued and deported”.
ARMED ROBBER JAILED FOR 11 YEARS By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net
A MAN accused of robbing two people and attempting to rob a third at gunpoint last year will serve 11 years in prison. Justice Bernard Turner sentenced Adrian Robinson to 18 years in prison for the
gunpoint robberies of Talitha Wallace and Shervone Knowles and the attempted armed robbery of Troy Clarke. However, in light of Robinson pleading guilty at the first opportunity - and having served five months in custody already - his sentence was reduced to 11 years and
seven months. On July 27, 2017, while armed with a handgun, Robinson robbed Ms Wallace of $5 cash and an iPhone and Ms Knowles of $3 cash and an LG cellular phone. On August 10, 2017, while armed with a handgun, Robinson attempted to rob Mr Clarke of cash.
MAN SHOT IN LEG NEAR ABACO BUSINESS ABACO police are investigating a shooting at a business early Tuesday morning which left a man wounded. According to police reports, the victim was
shot in the leg shortly before 1am while standing in the area of a business on Charles Sawyers Highway. He was transported by private vehicle to the Marsh Harbour
Medical Centre where he was seen by a doctor and is detained in stable condition. ASP Terecita Pinder said police are investigating the matter.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Commonwealth Bank is the premier Bahamian Bank with branches located in New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera. We are committed to delivering superior quality service, to training and developing our employees, to creating value for our shareholders and to promoting economic growth and stability in the community.
ROLE OVERVIEW To contribute to the design and delivery of training and development strategies in support of the Bank’s strategic plans. To provide information, advice and training services as required by working with teams across the Bank to support a programme of continuous organizational performance improvement. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES • Serves as the senior leader directing all training and development across the Bank. • Translates the demands of the bank’s strategy into a training & development plan to maximize the potential of the diverse talents within the Bank. • Uses appropriate metrics to measure training return on investment, conduct training needs analysis, and to assess performance gaps etc. • Develops training curriculum, implements and monitors training & development programs within the Bank. • Builds and maintains strong, collaborative internal relationships with Business leaders. • Leads the training and development team. QUALIFICATIONS • • • •
Master’s Degree in Training & Development, Human Resources. Curriculum development, Training and HR certifications are a plus. Minimum 7 years as a Training/Training & Development Manager. Minimum 5 years experience as a Trainer.
EXPERIENCE • Strong coaching/mentoring skills. • Advanced training and development skills. • Effective planning and project management skills with the ability to establish and drive work toward deadlines. • The ability to engage, conduct diagnosis, analyse findings, generate options and build commitment to solutions. • Change management skills. • Instructional design and curriculum development skills. • Strategic Planning Skills. • Strong technology skills. REMUNERATION PACKAGE: Commonwealth Bank is a great place to work! We offer an exciting work environment with the opportunity for growth and development. We also offer a competitive compensation package, reflecting the successful applicants’ experience and qualifications, including a performance based incentive plan, health vision, dental, life insurances and a pension plan. Qualified applicants are to send their résumés to: executive.search@combankltd.com on or before January 26th, 2018
“ Commonwealth Bank sincerely thanks all applicants for their interest in becoming a part of our team, however, only those applications being considered will be contacted.”
PAGE 6, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Progress - but we have to do better from page one In 2016, there were 111 murders, the commissioner added. The figures also show crimes in the Family Islands increased by six percent, mainly due to a rise in burglaries last year. In New Providence, there were increases in murder, manslaughter and unlawful sexual intercourse. The commissioner said preliminary figures for 2017 also indicate violent crimes across the entire Bahamas decreased by 20 percent and property crimes decreased by 11 percent. There were 13 attempted murders, one incident of manslaughter, 52 recorded rapes, 11 attempted rapes, 146 acts of unlawful sexual intercourse, 575 armed robberies, 115 robberies and 16 attempted robberies in 2017. In 2016, 26 attempted murders were recorded along with one instance of manslaughter, 71 rapes, 15 attempted rapes, 144 incidents of unlawful sexual intercourse, 783 armed robberies 175 robberies and 15 attempted robberies. When crimes against property are considered, almost every category declined. Burglary decreased by 15 percent; housebreaking by 11 percent; shop breaking four percent; stealing six percent; stealing from a vehicle nine percent; and stolen vehicles 31 percent. This constituted a 14 percent overall decrease in crimes against property in 2017 over 2016. These results, the commissioner said, represented a dent in crime and that police are on the right track. He said: “With the help of almighty God, the hardworking officers of the
COMMISSIONER of Police Anthony Ferguson. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff During the first quarter the current level of crime of 2017 murders were up in our country, but while by 33 percent. During the we feel very good and are second quarter murders encouraged by the positive were up by 10 percent and results we observed last in the third quarter mur- year - particularly during ders more than doubled. the fourth quarter - we’ll However in the fourth not be side tracked, but quarter murders decreased will remain focused on our by some 53 percent. More mandate,” the commisspecifically there was only sioner also said. one murder in November In New Providence, and five in December. This three categories of crime decrease was meaning- remained at increased ful as murders previously levels. Murders in 2017 average about 12 per increased by 17 percent month. with 104 cases compared “For the first time in a with 89 in 2016. Manslaughlong time the Bahamian ter saw one incident last people can breathe a sigh year compared with none in of relief as incidents of this 2016, while unlawful sexual most heinous crime have intercourse increased by begun to subside. 23 percent. There were “Let it be known 107 cases reported in 2017, that despite the overall while 87 were reported in decreases in crime, we 2016. are still not satisfied with Attempted murder
Royal Bahamas Police Force, the general public and our international partners, the Royal Bahamas Police force was able to put a dent in crime as we ended 2017. “Crimes in New Providence and Grand Bahama decreased by 14 and 26 percent respectively. Crimes in the Family Islands however increased by six percent. This slight increase in the Family Islands was mostly attributed to a rise in burglaries. “With respect to the offence of murder, overall incidents slightly increased by 10 percent with 122 incidents compared with 111 incidents in 2016. “However, when we analyse murder trends on a quarterly basis we notice some promising results.
declined by 45 percent, rape 37 percent, attempted rape 17 percent, armed robbery 27 percent and robbery 35 percent. Burglary, housebreaking, shop breaking, stealing, stealing from a vehicle and stolen vehicles also all trended downward at 23 percent, 7 percent, 10 percent, five percent, eight percent, and 32 percent respectively. In Grand Bahama, almost all categories of crimes against the person declined except attempted rape. One incident of this crime was recorded in 2017, but there were none in 2016. For the Family Islands, there was a 13 percent increase in crimes against the person. The commissioner attributed the overall decrease in crime to a number of factors. “We know that this was not a mere coincidence but the results of analysing trends, refocusing policing operations and getting valuable intelligence from members of the public, the operations of the AntiGang and Firearms Unit and the Rapid Response Unit which I established soon after taking leadership of the force. The flying squad and uniform divisions have also impacted murders as problems associated with gangs and gun activity will ultimately lead to murder. “During 2017 there were a number of focused interventions that yielded positive results, including a major housebreaking ring, which was dismantled in the western district of New Providence. Traditional policing played a meaningful role in detecting this. The suspects were arrested, charged and convicted on many counts. “We were able to seize 327 illegal firearms and
nearly 10,000 rounds of ammunition from the streets. There were a significant number of drug seizures including over 17,000 pounds of marijuana as well as the discovery of marijuana fields with other 16,000 plants. “Our increased use of technology such as ballistics examinations resulted in solving a number of crimes that involved firearms. We began testing body and dash cameras as we seek to increase the level of professionalism accountability and transparency. Discussions are also ongoing on a number of other cuttingedge law enforcement technologies, which will further assist us in our policy, response and detection.” The release of the 2017 crime statistics took on a slightly different form from previous years, as the commissioner’s policing plan for 2018 was not released. Commissioner Ferguson said the plan was submitted to National Security Minister Marvin Dames, but he declined to reveal any of its details saying he did not want to do so in the event the minister had not yet gotten the opportunity to review the plan. He was unable to give a definitive answer on when the comprehensive policing strategy would be released to the public. While Commissioner Ferguson would not detail his 2018 plan, he said it would be geared toward effective management, professionalism, optimising the use of technology and interacting with at risk youth. The plan will also focus on road safety and a continued prevention and reduction of crime. He also said Bahamians can expect to see a high number of officers on the streets.
‘DAVIS TRYING TO POLITICISE CRIME WITH CLAIMS OVER NIA’ By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday admonished Official Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis for his insistence that the disbandment of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) had led to an increase in certain categories of crime. Mr Dames accused Mr Davis of attempting to politicise crime by intentionally overlooking data which shows downward trends in crime. The Mount Moriah MP added he was saddened to see Mr Davis stoop so low in his quest to ascend to a higher political office.
Mr Davis on Monday branded the Minnis administration “hypocritical” and “disappointing” in its efforts to lower crime numbers since being elected to office last May. Mr Davis said he saw “no evidence” or “effort” to support the notion the FNM was being tough on crime. In response yesterday, an irate Mr Dames hit back, saying: “Everyone can see that when you compare the last quarter of last year with what we were experiencing all of those months before, especially at the beginning of last year, there is no comparison. “We had one homicide in November of 2017 - unprecedented. And this was a
CLOSED Dear Valued Client, Please be advised that COLINA GENERAL INSURANCE AGENTS & BROKERS LTD WILL BE CLOSED ON Friday, January 19, 2018 for a staff training exercise. Normal operations will resume at 9:00am on Monday, January 22, 2018. For your convenience, our Payment Centre at Carmichael Road is open to the public on Saturdays from 8:30am – 4pm. NASSAU RND Plaza West Carmichael Road Rosetta Street Mackey Street Village Road 56 Collins Avenue
603-1700 361-2442 325-3812 393-1054 677-2050 397-7646
FREEPORT Sav Mor Bldg
351-9300
colinageneral.com
ABACO Don McKay Blvd
367-3432
EXUMA Turnquest Star Plaza 336-3217
domestic related matter. And I believe that there were about five homicides in the month of December, ok. So when you compare by quarters for example, the numbers were reduced significantly and people on the streets were talking about it.” When compared, there is a 62 percent decrease in murders from the last quarter of 2016 to same period of 2017. Mr Dames continued: “We started this year off – and again when you look at the numbers, while we are not happy and pleased that we had three homicides on the island of Grand Bahama – but if the former deputy prime minister wants to play politics, we had 33 homicides for the first two months of 2017. But we don’t intend to play politics. “He talked about the National Intelligence Agency, he has no factual
information on that.” Mr Dames said his ministry carried out an assessment study, polling the heads of law enforcement on the needs and perceived role of the NIA. As a result, Mr Dames said his office ruled that the agency served no key purpose, as well as lacking the legal framework needed to exist. “You can’t run a government that way. Come on, let’s get serious,” Mr Dames said. “We should not be making statements as leaders when we cannot factually support those statements.” He added: “We should not be playing politics with crime. Speak to the facts for what they are. Go, sit down and have a conversation with your commissioner of police before you make these outlandish comments supported by no factual basis.” Addressing current
crime trends, Mr Dames commended the efforts of police in Grand Bahama and Abaco, where three murders were recently recorded and two decomposing bodies were discovered respectively. Mr Dames said police are concluding their investigations in all the matters. He said: “It will not be business as usual anymore. We will police differently. We have already begun that process and as a result of early efforts, we are beginning to see some positive change in the right direction. We will continue to do it.” Mr Dames added: “As I said before, we are not here to play games with crime. We understand how important reducing the crime levels in this country is to the overall stability of our nation.” “And so, you will continue to see our police operation from island
to island, wherever we need to go to flush out the criminal element that has operated throughout this country for far too long. They have come to realise that their time has come because we are solving these matters, but we are putting in place an aggressive preventive strategy to continue to bring the numbers down. “But as we do it, we clearly understand that you are not going to have a year with no homicides. No country can boast of that. But I can assure you one thing, those persons who feel the need to engage in criminal activity, we will use everything within the scope of our powers to isolate you and to put you where you belong. “We have to get back to a place where Bahamians can live in their communities without having concern about our young men killing up (each other).”
INDEPENDENT BODY ON POLICE COMPLAINTS from page one
on allegations that two RBPF officers were caught up in a sexual assault investigation.
Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson confirmed there is an investigation ongoing, but said it was in its early stages. He said police would make their investigation more public once it was happy with its progress. “The office of the deputy commissioner of police has the remit and of course the overall responsibility for discipline within the Royal Bahamas Police Force,” Deputy Commissioner Seymour said. “As the maintenance of discipline in our organisation is critical in our overall mandate, it is important that adherence to the code of discipline is observed by all of our officers. “The question has often
been asked, can the police police themselves? I would wish to answer that with an emphatic yes, we can, as this process has been demonstrated over the years. I can ensure the credibility and integrity of the process. “To ensure that this is maintained, an internal review board, which is an independent body, has been initiated and charged with responsibility with oversight of all police investigations. It simply means that notwithstanding the complaints made to the Police Complaints Unit, the process of the investigation of those complaints is carried out by the officers themselves. However, the review board has
the overall responsibility and has the authority also to call anyone of those complaints in to ensure that the due process was followed in the investigative process.” Of the 197 complaints, Mr Seymour said 112 were investigated and completed. The remaining 85 matters are still open and under investigation, he said. He said the concluded matters were either recommended to the court of inquiry or withdrawn because of unsubstantiated or insufficient evidence. Officials did not say how many officers, if any, were let go from the force or punished as a result of these complaints.
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 7
All Bahamas
Crimes against person
2016
New Providence
2017
% Change Crimes against person
2016
2017
Murder statistics % Change Month
Murder 111 122 10 Attempted murder 26 13 -50 Manslaughter 1 1 0 Rape 71 52 -27 Attempted rape 15 11 -27 Unlawful sex intercourse 144 146 1 Armed robbery 783 575 -27 Robbery 175 115 -34 Attempted robbery 15 16 7 Sub-total 1341 1051 -22
Murder 89 104 Attempted murder 20 11 Manslaughter 0 1 Rape 57 36 Attempted rape 12 10 Unlawful sex intercourse 87 107 Armed robbery 751 551 Robbery 162 106 Attempted robbery 15 15 Sub-total 1193 941
Crimes against property
Crimes against property
Burglary 162 137 Housebreaking 985 875 Shopbreaking 725 699 Stealing 1113 1045 Stealing from vehicle 1250 1132 Stolen vehicle 669 462 Sub-total 4904 4350
-15 -11 -4 -6 -9 -31 -11
Total 6245 5401
-14 Total 4942 4232
Grand Bahama
Crimes against person
2016
Burglary 129 99 Housebreaking 613 569 Shopbreaking 480 432 Stealing 807 766 Stealing from vehicle 1085 993 Stolen vehicle 635 432 Sub-total 3749 3291
Family Islands
2017
% Change Crimes against person
Murder 18 11 Attempted murder 4 2 Manslaughter 0 0 Rape 8 5 Attempted rape 0 1 Unlawful sex intercourse 32 12 Armed robbery 22 13 Robbery 10 5 Attempted robbery 0 0 Sub-total 94 49
-39 -50 0 -38 ∞ -63 -41 -50 0 -48
Crimes against property
2016
2017
17 -45 ∞ -37 -17 23 -27 -35 0 -21
January 15 12 February 18 15 March 7 6 April 13 11 May 11 9 June 9 7 July 10 8 August 8 7 September 12 10 October 13 11 November 1 1 December 5 4
-23 -7 -10 -5 -8 -32 -12
Day
75 -100 -100 83 -100 8 10 33 ∞ 13
Crimes against property
Burglary 16 10 Housebreaking 183 94 Shopbreaking 129 135 Stealing 103 103 Stealing from vehicle 108 68 Stolen vehicle 18 21 Sub-total 557 431
-38 -49 5 0 -37 17 -23
Total 651 480
-26 Total 652 689
Murders %
Sunday 22 18 Monday 19 16 Tuesday 14 11 Wednesday 12 10 Thursday 10 8 Friday 20 16 -14 Saturday 25 20
% Change
Murder 4 7 Attempted murder 2 0 Manslaughter 1 0 Rape 6 11 Attempted rape 3 0 Unlawful sex intercourse 25 27 Armed robbery 10 11 Robbery 3 4 Attempted robbery 0 1 Sub-total 54 61
Murders %
Burglary 17 28 Housebreaking 189 212 Shopbreaking 116 132 Stealing 203 176 Stealing from vehicle 57 71 Stolen vehicle 16 9 Sub-total 598 628
Time
Murders %
8am-4pm 31 25 4pm-midnight 58 48 midnight-8am 33 27 Location Murders % Central NP 17 14 Northeastern NP 18 15 Southern NP 17 14 South Cntral NP 14 11 Western NP 1 1 Southwest NP 17 14 Southeast NP 9 7 Eastern NP 11 9 West End GB 0 0 EMR GB 2 2 Eastern GB 4 3 Central GB 5 4 Family Island 7 6
65 12 14 -13 25 -44 Totals 5 New Providence 104 Grand Bahama 11 6 Family Islands 7
85 9 6
Ratio of murders by month through 2017
Traffic fatalities and serious injuries Location
Fatal crashes %
New Providence 33 67 Andros 3 6 Abaco 4 8 Exuma 1 2 Long Island 1 2 Bimini 1 2 Eleuthera 1 2 Grand Bahama 5 10 Total 49 fatal crashes New Providence recorded three double fatalities Grand Bahama recorded two double fatalities Abaco recorded one double fatality Total fatalities 54 Previous years 2015 55 fatalities 2016 44 fatalities
Serious injuries
Time Fatal crashes % 8am-4pm 13 4pm-midnight 26 midnight-8am 10
27 53 20
2015 2016 2017
New Prov All Bahamas 21 92 16 91 18 118
Minor injuries 2015 2016 2017
New Prov All Bahamas 1628 2049 1725 2166 1760 2207
Hit and run 2015 2016 2017
New Prov All Bahamas 806 1030 933 1188 888 1204
MARIJUANA SEIZURES UP IN 2017, COCAINE DOWN
By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net SEIZURES of marijuana increased by more than 300 percent last year when compared with 2016, according to Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) narcotic statistics. Cocaine seizures have declined by 41 percent during the same period. Overall, police seized more than 36,000 pounds of drugs, 300 illegal weapons and 9,000 rounds of ammunition. The major drugs seized by the Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) were cocaine, hashish, marijuana, and marijuana plants. The report also revealed that most drugs were found on Family Islands. The breakdown is as follows: Of the 17,634.74 pounds of marijuana seized in 2017, 13,164.54lbs were found in the Family Islands, 3,472.97lbs in New Providence, and 997.23lbs in Grand Bahama. This is a major jump from 2016, when police seized 4,077.52lbs of marijuana across the nation and represents a 332 percent increase. Of the 2,075.59 pounds of cocaine seized, 1,083.74lbs were found in Grand Bahama, 860.58lbs on Family Islands, and 131.27 pounds were found on New Providence. This illustrates a decline from 2016, when police said a total of 3,531.77lbs of cocaine were confiscated. Of the 16,242 marijuana plants discovered in 2017, 14,378 plants were in Family Islands, 1,501 plants were in Grand Bahama, and 363 plants were found on New Providence. All 56 lbs of hashish found in the country were discovered in Grand Bahama, with one additional gram taken from a Family Island. Unlike 2016, no ecstasy finds were recorded in the 2017 statistics. Overall, there were 1,457 drug cases in the Bahamas in 2017. A total of 1,693 people were arrested. Police reported 1,460 people were arrested for marijuana — 838 for possession, 605 for possession with intent to supply, and 17 for marijuana plants. One hundred and four people were arrested for cocaine — 41 for possession and 63 for possession with intent to supply. Eighty-two persons were arrested for possession of cocaine and marijuana, and 45 people were arrested and questioned in reference to dangerous drugs - but not charged. Of the total number of persons arrested, 63 were juveniles - 34 of these youths were charged. In terms of firearms, the RBPF seized 327 weapons in 2017. The majority of these were pistols (252), and other weapons included shotguns, rifles, revolvers, and one imitation firearm. Police said 9,183 rounds of ammunition were also seized. Of these, 224 were surrendered ammunition and 8,959 were illegal. The months with the highest amounts of weapons seizures were January (36), March (35), October (34), and May (30).
GB MURDERS DECREASED BY 9.2 PER CENT IN 2017 By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
MURDERS in Grand Bahama deceased by 9.2 percent in 2017 compared with the previous year. Assistant Commissioner Clayton Fernander, the officer in charge of crime investigations, said 11 murders were committed in Grand Bahama in 2017 compared with 18 in 2016. He noted there was a
slight increase in murders in the Family Islands, with seven murders in 2017 three recorded in Abaco; and one each in Acklins, Bimini, Cat Island and Long Island. In 2016, ACP Fernander said there were four murders recorded in the Family Islands. “We will extend support to the Family Islands to assist in the prevention of serious crimes,” he said. He also attributed success to the Anti-Gang and
Firearm Flying Squad, Rapid Response Unit, along with all operational uniform units. ACP Fernander noted that as a result of the number of people charged with murder, the police force achieved a 55.74 percent detection rate in 2017. He said most murders committed last year were by use of firearm. Some 327 firearms and 9,183 rounds of ammunition were taken off the streets and away from criminals, he said.
He said the RBPF continues to see trends increase in gang activity and conflicts related to drug turfs. “We will continue to target offenders to stop illegal firearms from entering the country and getting in the hands of criminals,” ACP Fernander said. He also said the police would continue its partnership with US counterparts to disrupt the flow of guns and target drug dealers. ACP Fernander said police would continue
monitor persons on bail and target hot spots. “We believe in consistent police presence in our communities and initiating a focused approach to minor crimes as they lead to bigger crimes. As a country we cannot sit back and see another month of 15 and 20 murders.” When asked about programmes geared towards youth in Grand Bahama, senior police officials noted they would continue to partner with people in local communities and to speak
to youngsters to discourage them from getting involved in crime. Two juveniles - a 15 and a 16-year-old - were charged with two separate murders that occurred in Grand Bahama earlier this month. Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson mentioned the police force conducts an annual summer youth programme which offers activities for minors. He said in 2017, over 600 youngsters participated in the programme.
We don’t always have to be afraid
PAGE 8, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
DONALD Trump in a press conference yesterday and, right, Dubravka Šimonovic, whose comments on marital rape laws sparked debate in The Bahamas on the issue. THE US has been a major influence on The Bahamas for a long time. Proximity and tourism are not the only reasons. “Foreign is better” has been a dominant idea for decades. Imported apples are redder, US-based network television is more entertaining and flownin consultants are more knowledgable. We’ve grown accustomed to looking elsewhere for what we want, whether it’s because of cost, quality, or status, real or perceived. At the same time, we complain about the side effects of these decisions. Small businesses are suffering, creatives struggle to secure financial support, unemployment is high, university graduates accept offers elsewhere and the country stagnates on various levels. We don’t listen to our own experts and our governments engage people from all over the world, paying obscene amounts of money to tell us what we — at least some of us — already know.
We are outraged when Bahamas and declaration we hear about it and not that marital rape is the most just because of the money. pressing gender-based issue Even while we discredit in the country drew vitriolic and ignore our own, we response. are deeply insulted by even Dubravka Šimonovic was the suggestion that some- invited to The Bahamas to one who does not live here make an assessment, parcould know ticularly in or understand ‘Are we so light of our anything about bid for a seat our condition opposed to on the UN or potential external influence Human Rights better than us. that we willingly Council. It We are comis her job to pelled to resist refuse to objectively “outsiders”. acknowledge — look at the and its or outright reject country Who’s Afraid laws, engage — statements of with of the UN? civil The United obvious truth and society and Nations Special report on her recommendations Rapporteur findings. on Violence of merit?’ Ms Against WomŠimonovic’s en’s visit to The visit was not
to force new legislation or amendments and her position does not afford her that right. Her comments, however, helped to spark a necessary conversation spanning several topics including rape, rape culture, marriage and religion. It was a springboard for organisations and individuals and drew attention to an overlooked issue. No matter how we validate her position or explain her visit, Ms Šimonovic is continually regarded as a UN operative, seeking to control The Bahamas and Bahamians. Religious beliefs and commitment to the protection of patriarchy certainly influenced the conversation, but so did fear. Are we so opposed to external influence that we willingly refuse to acknowledge — or outright reject — statements of obvious truth and recommendations of merit? It seems as though nationalism as a principle and pride as a restrictive, selfish value prevent us from participating in the processes necessary
for growth and advancement as a country. Fear of being dominated or losing ourselves convinces us to dig our heels deeper into the mire that is our current and persisting state. Are we so weak that we could be controlled by mere conversation and suggestions of non-Bahamians? Bullied by Big Brother The President of the United States reportedly referred to African nations, along with others such as Haiti and El Salvador, as “shithole countries”. A xenophobe and a racist, his sentiments were clear before this incident, but it demands a response. Governments, organisations and individuals have rebuked his statement and made it clear he is not welcome in their spaces. CARICOM condemned Trump’s statement, calling it “unenlightened” and “unacceptable”. Since then, the Caribbean People’s Declaration, with 200 signatories, deemed the US president “persona non grata”. It declared he is “not welcome in any territory of the Caribbean” and confirms that any visit will be protested by Caribbean people with “demonstrations designed to prevent President Donald Trump’s entry into any portion of the sovereign territory of our Caribbean region”. The Bahamas has not made such a statement and, based on social media posts and comments, many believe our silence is necessary. What would it mean to be on the bad side of the US and its president? We need to spend more time thinking about ourselves in relation to our Caribbean counterparts. We have been comfortable with a self-aggrandising narrative, seeing ourselves as superior to the people of other Caribbean nations. Our GDP inflates our egos. We are proud of our proximity to the US, preclearance and ease of access to the tourist market. We argue about whether or not we are a part of the Caribbean, often failing to acknowledge the shared history that binds us. In our minds, there is more that separates us from the rest of the Caribbean than connecting us. Contrary to what many Caribbean people believe and often express, we know we are not American, but in many ways, we aspire to Americanness, and it is often our closeness to American values and ways of life that excites us. We do not want to jeopardise it. That said, when issues of rights and freedoms are raised, opponents are quick to accuse advocates of “bringing American issues here”, so we are only interested in certain parts of Americanness. This commitment to
being US-adjacent — not just geographically — often keeps us silent. While Leader of the Opposition Philip “Brave” Davis criticised the lack of response from the current administration, Minister of Foreign Affairs Darren Henfield would only say The Bahamas is part of CARICOM and “we speak with one voice”, suggesting the CARICOM statement is sufficient. Whether or not we believe cowardice is necessary, this is certainly a shameful silence. Neighbourhood Watch On Friday, January 5, the CARICOM Regional Commission on Marijuana held a town hall meeting to get a sense of the Bahamian public’s opinion on the decriminalisation of marijuana. The announcement of this event was like a loud, piercing alarm for those against decriminalisation. Without even fully understanding the purpose of the event, furious typing and fast-dialing into radio talk shows ensued. People warned against decriminalisation and all manner of impending doom that would result. While there may be valid arguments against decriminalisation or, more likely, issues to be considered, accusations against CARICOM were wholly unnecessary and completely inaccurate. Listening to the fearful and the conspiracy theorists among us without seeking accurate information, it would be easy to believe CARICOM is forcing legislative changes on The Bahamas. That a conversation could scare us is more worrying than being shunned by the US, or the decriminalisation of marijuana. That we are happy to accept frivolous, seemingly inconsequential imports like clothing and media and determined to reject expertise or even the facilitation of information sessions is cause for concern. We do not have to accept everything — or anything — being offered. We can demand that Bahamians experts are called first. We can have differing points of view. What we cannot afford is to close ourselves off from the rest of the world, convinced that everyone wants to take something from us or force something upon us. There is nothing wrong with learning from other countries, receiving recommendations from international bodies, or standing in solidarity with sister countries in the face of fascism. These decisions are up to us. Our fight should not be for restricted access to knowledge, perspective and dialogue, but for seats at the table and participatory governance. We need every engagement opportunity we can get.
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 9
TECHTALK
LIFELIKE ROBOTS
• FRENCH LEAGUE SUSPENDS GOALLINE TECHNOLOGY AFTER ‘FAILINGS’
MADE IN HONG KONG MEANT
TO WIN OVER HUMANS By KELVIN CHAN, AP Business Writer HONG KONG (AP) — David Hanson envisions a future in which AI-powered robots evolve to become “super-intelligent genius machines” that might help solve some of mankind’s most challenging problems. If only it were as simple as that. The Texas-born former sculptor at Walt Disney Imagineering and his Hong Kong-based startup Hanson Robotics are combining artificial intelligence with southern China’s expertise in toy design, electronics and manufacturing to craft humanoid “social robots” with faces designed to be lifelike and appealing enough to win trust from humans who interact with them. Hanson, 49, is perhaps best known as the creator of Sophia, a talk show-going robot partly modeled on Audrey Hepburn that he calls his “masterpiece.” Akin to an animated mannequin, she seems as much a product of his background in theatrics as an example of advanced technology. “You’re talking to me right now, which is very ‘Blade Runner,’ no?” Sophia said during a recent visit to Hanson Robotics’ headquarters in a suburban Hong Kong science park, its home since shortly after Hanson relocated here in 2013. “Do you ever look around you and think, ‘Wow I’m living in a real world science fiction novel?’” she asked. “Is it weird to be talking to a robot right now?” Hanson Robotics has made about a dozen copies of Sophia, who like any human is a work in progress.
A multinational team of scientists and engineers are fine tuning her appearance and the algorithms that enable her to smile, blink and refine her understanding and communication. Sophia has moving 3D-printed arms and, with the help of a South Korean robotics company, she’s now going mobile. Shuffling slowly on boxy black legs, Sophia made her walking debut in Las Vegas last week at the CES electronics trade show. Her skin is made of a nanotech material that Hanson invented and dubbed “Frubber,” short for flesh-rubber, that has a flesh-like bouncy texture. Cameras in her eyes and a 3D sensor in her chest
DAVID HANSON, the founder of Hanson Robotics, works on his company’s flagship robot Sophia, a lifelike robot powered by artificial intelligence in Hong Kong. Sophia is a creation of the Hong Kong-based startup working on bringing humanoid robots to the marketplace. Hanson envisions a future in which AI-powered robots evolve to become ‘super-intelligent genius machines’ that can help solve mankind’s most challenging problems. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) with bushy mustache and white thatch of hair, a robot named Alice whose grimaces run a gamut of emotions and one eerily resembling the late sci-fi author Philip K.
HANSON Robotics’ flagship robot Sophia. (AP) help her to “see,” while the processor that serves as her brain combines facial and speech recognition, natural language processing, speech synthesis and a motion control system. Sophia seems friendly and engaging, despite the unnatural pauses and cadence in her speech. Her predecessors include an Albert Einstein, complete
Dick, which won an award from the American Association of Artificial Intelligence. They variously leer, blink, smile and even crack jokes. Disney’s venture capital arm is an investor in Hanson, which is building a robot based on one of the entertainment giant’s characters. An artist and robotics scientist, Hanson worked on animatronic theme park
shows, sculpting props and characters for Disney attractions like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Mermaid Lagoon. He studied film, animation and video, eventually earning a doctorate in interactive arts and technology from the University of Texas at Dallas. Hanson says he makes his robots as human-like as possible to help alleviate fears about robots, artificial intelligence and automation. That runs contrary to a tendency in the industry to use cute robo-pets or overtly machine-like robots like Star Wars’ R2-D2 to avoid the “uncanny valley” problem with human likenesses such as wax models and robots that many people find a bit creepy. Some experts see Sophia as mainly a clever marketing gimmick. “It’s a good advertising tool, whatever that company produces as a business plan,” said Roland Chin, chair professor of computer science at Hong Kong Baptist University. Global market revenue for service robotics is forecast to grow from $3.7 billion in 2015 to $15 billion
HOTELS BET ON TECHNOLOGY TO ATTRACT, DAZZLE GUESTS LAS VEGAS (AP) — It takes just minutes for a room service attendant to respond to a text message asking for a soda, bringing the Diet Coke on a tray with a glass of ice and lime wedges, no need for the modern hassle of placing a phone call. Thousands of guests at some of Las Vegas’ casino-hotels also can get towels, food and toiletries delivered with just a few taps on their smartphone. It comes as the staples of hotel room technology — a phone on a nightstand and a flat-screen TV — aren’t cutting it anymore in the hypercompetitive world of Sin City tourism. Guests can use tablets to control room features like lights and temperature. Shower infusers and special lights promise travelers a chance to recharge. And a 4-foot-tall robot can point visitors to the nearest ATM. In the battle for millions of Las Vegas’ tourists, voice-assisted speakers and purification systems also are part of the push to attract ever-moredemanding customers and keep them coming back. “The hotel brands or the casino brands are trying to make themselves
evolve to become more relevant to a younger audience that is highly technologically enabled,” said Robert Rippee, director of the Hospitality Lab at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Las Vegas hotels are not the only ones using such technology. The Acme Hotel Co. in Chicago put an Amazon Echo in every room and the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, California, has equipped rooms with iPads. But what sets Sin City properties apart is the volume of guests they handle, which can test the technology that must be easy to understand.
System “Let’s say the tablet is a Microsoft Surface, but the tablet you use is an iPad, so you immediately have a gap,” Rippee said. “You, as the user, now have to learn to use a product an operating system you are unfamiliar with. If you are here for two nights, you are going to discard it.” Caesars Entertainment launched a texting service at its 3,976-room
A ROBOT named Pepper stands in the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas. (AP) Caesars Palace casino-hotel on the Las Vegas Strip in August, months after rolling it out at two boutique hotels. Senior vice president and chief experience officer Michael Marino said the service aims to improve guests’ stay after the company noticed a dip in phone calls. “It’s not like they have less needs, it’s just that something has happened over the last couple of years where people just don’t like to call people anymore,” Marino said. Four properties now have the service named Ivy, which the company credits for higher scores of two of its hotels on travel review website TripAdvisor. The service uses artificial intelligence to automatically answer
in 2020, according to IHS Markit. That includes both professional and domestic machines like warehouse automatons, smart vacuums and fuzzy companion robots. Hanson Robotics is privately owned and has a consumer-oriented business that sells thousands of shoebox-sized $200 Professor Einstein educational robots a year. Chief Marketing Officer Jeanne Lim says the company is generating revenue but won’t say whether it’s profitable. For now, artificial intelligence is best at doing specific tasks. It’s another thing entirely for machines to learn a new ability, generalise that knowledge and apply it in different contexts, partly because of the massive amount of computing power needed to process such information so quickly. “We’re really very far from the kind of AI and robotics that you see in movies like ‘Blade Runner’,” said Pascale Fung, an engineering professor at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. “Sorry to disappoint you.”
common questions and requests, such as gym location and hours of operation. But trained staffers type back responses to more complex inquiries such as where Muslims should face to pray in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca. The Cosmopolitan casino-hotel also launched a chatbot a year ago, around the same time Wynn Resorts announced that an Amazon Echo would be installed in every room of the Wynn Las Vegas casino-hotel. At the Aria and Vdara hotels, each room is equipped with a tablet with applications that allow guests to schedule breakfast delivery, access thousands of publications and adjust temperature and lights. Travelers also can choose special rooms at the MGM Grand and The Mirage with several lighting options, including one that helps the body’s internal clock, and a device that infuses the shower’s water with vitamin C. Meanwhile, a shiny white, wideeyed standing robot named Pepper in the lobby of the luxury Mandarin Oriental hotel can answer a set of preprogrammed questions, including checkout time, how to connect to the Wi-Fi network and the location of the spa. “I’ve seen robots on TV, but never in person. It’s so cute,” said Ana Rosa Santiago, a Miami resident who took a selfie with Pepper. “I already sent it to all my family.”
THE French football league has suspended goal-line technology in its competitions following more glitches during League Cup quarterfinals last week. The LFP informed the company GoalControl “of the immediate suspension” of its technology following “two more technical failings” in matches, it said in a statement late Thursday. The French league already said last month it wanted improvements after expressing “dissatisfaction with the failures” in several matches with GoalControl, the same system used at the 2014 World Cup. FIFA has yet to confirm whether GoalControl will be used in Russia at a second straight World Cup. It took referee Nicolas Rainville about a minute to confirm Paris SaintGermain’s second goal in the 2-0 win over Amiens last Wednesday. Adrien Rabiot headed in the second goal but the referee’s watch, which normally vibrates to indicate a goal, did not work, and he had to consult with video assistant referees to validate the goal. Another incident marred Montpellier’s 1-0 win in Angers, where the technology wrongly made the referee’s watch vibrate. Didier Quillot, the league general director, said the service provided by GoalControl was not reliable at the moment, and hinted French football authorities could end the partnership. “We are going to look at what is available on the market,” Quillot said. “There are other providers, not only GoalControl.” • FORD PLANS TO INTRODUCE 40 ELECTRIC, HYBRID VEHICLES BY 2022 FORD Motor Co. says it’s doubling its investment in electric and hybrid vehicles and plans to introduce 40 by 2022. Among them: A hybrid version of the F-150 pickup truck that is due out in 2020. In 2015, Ford pledged to invest $4.5 billion to develop 13 electric and hybrid vehicles by 2020. At the Detroit auto show Sunday, the company says it’s doubling that to $11 billion. It plans to bring out 24 hybrids and 16 electric vehicles by 2022. Ford’s global markets chief says many current Ford vehicles, like its best-selling F-150, will get hybrid or electric versions. “We want to make a statement about the company that we’re electrifying our iconic vehicles,” Farley says.
PAGE 10, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Time to face the inevitable on state pensions “UNFUNDED pension obligations” is a clunky phrase, obscure except to accountants and to actuaries forecasting life expectancy. To the average citizen, it only comes alive when translated to read simply “promises to pay money you don’t have”. Alarm bells start to ring when the public learns those are promises not just from Abe to Zeke but from Government to thousands of Bahamian employees and retirees. Our Prime Ministers and Ministers of Finance of both parties have done their best to keep those alarm bells muffled. Government civil
By Richard Coulson
servants — police, teachers, clerks and senior office holders — as well as employees of some 25 state-owned enterprises like BahamasAir, enjoy a pension on retirement at the normal age of 65. What’s tough on our budget, and strangles our prospects for economic growth, is that these
pensions are governed by “defined benefit” (DB) plans which promise a fixed monthly payment until death, calculated on a formula combining years of employment and salary level in their final years. Naturally, the total payments rise each year, as salaries increase, unions fight for
PerfectlyPure. There’s pure... then there’s AQUAPURE. Our water is purified by reverse osmosis and ozonated with very low sodium to give you a taste that is perfectly healthy and perfectly pure. Drink Sure with Aquapure.
The QUDAL ® - QUality meDAL™ accolade is only awarded to those products and services on the market that offer consumers the greatest level of quality – based on scientific market research according to the innovative QUDAL® - Quality – DEEPMA method.
T: 394-PURE (394 -7873) sales@aquapure-bahamas.com Order online for free home delivery www.aquapure-bahamas.com
BE SURE. AQUAPURE.
more favourable formulas and life expectancy creeps upward . The overall pension requirement is covered on a payas-you-go-basis with a budget item charged each year. Nowhere can you find a figure for this amount, since our 400-plus-page budget document reports expenditures per-ministry and not per-function. Our Government has never planned for the increases. Never have any major steps been taken to reduce the pay-out formula, to raise the retirement age, to establish a “fund” to cover at least part of the future increases, or, above all, to switch to a radically different type of pension known as the “defined contribution” (DC) alternative which throughout the world is sweeping away the DB model well known to Bahamian pensioners. The annual Article IV York are studying ways to Report by the IMF shows accept the inevitable. The revolutionary nature a good grasp of our pension expense and future of this change in the Bahacommitments. The latest, mian environment cannot published in October be over-emphasised. Unlike 2017, indicated the com- the fixed monthly amounts bined unfunded pension payable under DB, with DC liability of the Govern- the employer merely pays ment, its companies and the employee a percentage the separate National of his salary (say, 5 percent) Insurance Board (NIB) at and offers him a choice of roughly $2.2 billion - and investment options - debt subject to rapid growth. or equity, conservative or Government workers have aggressive - that he selects received annual pension and keeps in his own sepapayments equal to about 1 rate account. The employer percent of GDP and 7.3 often kicks in its own percent of tax revenue. matching contribution, but These and related figures again the pensioner must led the IMF to comment decide how to invest it. On that it was “inevitable” retirement, his account may that Government would be large or small, dependhave to reform both public ing on the investment policy pensions and the NIB he has chosen to follow. For the system, which time, operates more ‘Our Government first Bahamian like Social has never workers, usuSecurity in the ally untutored US making planned for the payments increases. Never in finance, will have to make regardless investment of details of have any major steps been taken decisions that employment. will deterAt least, to reduce the mine their NIB has accufuture financial mulated a pay-out formula, health. Unions portfolio of to raise the may object to marketable retirement age, the variable securities to parresults inhertially fund its to establish a future commit- “fund” to cover at ent in the DC plans. ments, while least part of the As Government the chairhas irrespon- future increases, man of sibly left its or, above all, BCCEC own pension to switch to a recently scheme without one dollar radically different affirmed, bank deposof funding, type of pension.’ its paying less relying totally than one peron the annual cent are no longer a viable budget subvention. This unhappy state of way to save for the future. affairs has long been known Higher-yielding securities, to our financial authorities. like Government bonds or The IMF report for 2016 corporate preferred shares, common equities virtually mirrors the later plus one. As long ago as 2008, with potential for capital the Executive Director of growth, must now be on our Securities Commission the horizon for all employdelivered an address with ees. Fortunately, they will comprehensive reform not be left without help. We recommendations, and have at least a half dozen in 2014 the accountancy licenced banks, securities firm KPMG prepared its dealers and insurance comown study. The following panies qualified to advise year, a special committee on investment policies was convened to advise and administer portfoon creating, for the first lios. With thousands of new time, pension legislation for retirees demanding their the private sector, but never services, staffing should issued a formal report. Thus rise as well as a higher I was astonished to see level of expertise. Our that in the 68-page Budget financial services indusReport issued by new try, whose relevance for Minister of Finance Peter domestic clients has stagTurnquest in May 2017 the nated, should feel a strong word “pension” was not breath of stimulation. These advisors will be even mentioned, amid all the other upbeat propos- encouraged to discover a als to improve our financial range of new products for their new clients. Given the structure. In the US over 40 years limited volume of Governago, the switch to DC pen- ment securities and the sions began in the private paucity of equity issues sector, so that less than listed on BISX - 20 in total, three percent of US salaried fewer than half of which employees are now entitled trade actively - our local to a fixed DB pension. The capital markets will be 50 states, bearing an esti- unable to satisfy demand. In a positive step that the mated $5 billion unfunded pensions, are now following PLP always ignored, Prime Minister Minnis in his the same path. relaxation of Beginning in 2011, with recent bitter political debate exchange controls reduced in Wisconsin fought by to 5 percent the premium the governor himself, a payable on exchanging groundswell of political and B-Dollars for US-dollars financial thinking has been used for investment purmoving state pension funds poses. The previous 12 steadily away from DB to percent premium destroyed DC plans. Pennsylania has any incentive for Bahataken the plunge and Cali- mians to consider foreign fornia, Illinois and New securities traded on the
NYSE or elsewhere. With the up-front cost now reduced to five percent, they offer an attractive, far more liquid, alternative to the small number of BISX equities, as well as a hedge against B-Dollar devaluation - unlikely, in my opinion, but not unthinkable. Even in the US, relatively few individual investors are “stock-pickers”; most prefer to invest in mutual funds with portfolios chosen by professional managers. A fascinating book, Empire of the Fund - How We Save Now, published in 2016, explains how mutual funds have grown to dominate the savings platform for Americans. By 1951, the first 100 funds were created; now there are more than 8,000 catering to every conceivable investment preference, holding about $6.9 billion in retirement savings. Although the wide public acceptance of mutual funds indicates that, in general, they are safe and reliable vehicles for unsophisticated investors, the cited book provides plenty of detail of how US fund shareholders have been scammed, misled or overcharged by fund managers. The same may well be happening here. Every fund has an “investment manager”, paid a fee based on size of and valuation of assets, who can manipulate operations for its own benefit rather than for the fund shareholders. Our Securities Commission must be given stronger powers to investigate fund business and impose sanctions where needed. Mutual funds are already offered by several investment firms to their more affluent Bahamian clients, but probably do not exceed $300m total, principally in local stocks and bonds, as well as a small selection of foreign securities that have been available for a few years under a special Central Bank “exemption” from usual exchange control restrictions. However, a shift to DC pension plans will lead to several thousand retirees looking for a home to place their pension contribution allocations - possibly as much as B$50m annually. If the local capital market does not grow, much of this “new money” must go to foreign securities enjoying too the reduced five percent exchange premium. Changing Government pensions to the DC system, or some form of “hybrid” mixture with traditional DB schemes (as often happens with state pensions across the US), will doubtless face its critics and require a vigorous education campaign. But it’s an essential step toward rescuing our financial structure from the painful alternatives of pension default (political suicide), new taxes or inflation from massive new public borrowing. On the plus side, the cash released for personal investment can invigorate our capital markets and financial services sector.
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 11
PAGE 12, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
BANNON GIVEN SUBPOENAS IN RUSSIA PROBE WASHINGTON (AP) — Former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon on Tuesday refused to answer a broad array of queries from the House Intelligence Committee about his time working for President Donald Trump, provoking a subpoena from the panel’s Republican chairman. The development brought to the forefront questions about White House efforts to control what the former adviser tells Congress about his time in Trump’s inner circle and whether Republicans on Capitol Hill would force the issue in light of the newly issued subpoena from the GOP-controlled panel. The congressional subpoena came the same day The New York Times reported that Bannon has been subpoenaed by special counsel Robert Mueller to testify before a federal grand jury.
‘PERFECT SCORE’ ON TRUMP HEALTH WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump performed “exceedingly well” on a surprise cognitive screening test administered last week, his doctor said Tuesday, as the White House continued to bat back questions about the president’s mental fitness for office. Navy doctor Ronny Jackson, who administered Trump’s first presidential physical last week, said Trump received a perfect score on a test designed to detect early signs of memory loss and other mild cognitive impairment. He also reported the 6-foot-3 president weighed in at 239 pounds — three pounds heavier than he was in September 2016, the last time Trump revealed his weight to the public.
THE TRIBUNE
Pope meets survivors of abuse SANTIAGO, CHILE Associated Press
POPE Francis met on Tuesday with survivors of priests who sexually abused them, wept with them and apologised for the “irreparable damage” they suffered, his spokesman said. The pontiff also acknowledged the “pain” of priests who have been held collectively responsible for the crimes of a few, Vatican spokesman Greg Burke told reporters. Francis dove head-first into Chile’s sex abuse scandal on his first full day in Santiago that came amid unprecedented opposition to his visit: Three more churches were torched overnight, including one burned to the ground in the southern Araucania region where Francis celebrates Mass on Wednesday. Police used tear gas and water cannons to break up an anti-pope protest outside Francis’ big open-air Mass in the capital, Santiago. Despite the incidents, huge numbers of Chileans turned out to see the pope, including an estimated 400,000 for his Mass, and he brought some inmates to tears with an emotional visit to a women’s prison. But his meeting with
abuse survivors and comments in his first speech of the day were what many Chileans, incensed by years of abuse scandal and coverup, were waiting for. Burke said Francis met with a small group of abuse victims after lunch, listening to their stories and praying with them. The spokesman gave no details, other than to say the pope “listened to them, prayed with them and wept with them”. Earlier in the day, Francis told Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, lawmakers, judges and other authorities that he felt “bound to express my pain and shame” that some of Chile’s clergy had sexually abused children in their care. “I am one with my brother bishops, for it is right to ask forgiveness and make every effort to support the victims, even as we commit ourselves to ensuring that such things do not happen again,” the pope said. Francis did not refer by name to Chile’s most notorious pedophile priest, the Rev Fernando Karadima, who in 2011 was barred from all pastoral duties and sanctioned by the Vatican to a lifetime of “penance and prayer” for sexually molesting minors.
ANASTASIA Gruzdeva poses for a selfie on Sunday as the temperature dropped to about -50 degrees (-58 degrees Fahrenheit) in Yakutsk, Russia. Photo: sakhalife.ru/AP
WHERE EVEN THE EYELASHES FREEZE MOSCOW Associated Press
EVEN thermometers can’t keep up with the plunging temperatures in Russia’s remote Yakutia region, which hit minus 67 degrees Celsius (minus 88.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas Tuesday. In Yakutia — a region of
one million people about 3,300 miles (5,300 kilometers) east of Moscow — students routinely go to school even in minus 40 degrees. But school was canceled Tuesday throughout the region and police ordered parents to keep their children inside. In the village of Oymyakon, one of the coldest
inhabited places on earth, state-owned Russian television showed the mercury falling to the bottom of a thermometer that was only set up to measure down to minus 50 degrees. In 2013, Oymyakon recorded an all-time low of minus 71 degrees Celsius (minus 98 Fahrenheit).
VICTIMS OF SPORTS DOCTOR TELL OF SEX ABUSE LANSING, MICHIGAN Associated Press
ONE after one, gymnasts and other victims of a disgraced former sports doctor stepped forward in a Michigan courtroom Tuesday to recount the sexual abuse and emotional trauma he inflicted on them as
children, including one who warned that girls eventually “grow into strong women that return to destroy your world”. Nearly 100 victims are expected to address the court during the four-day sentencing hearing for 54-year-old Larry Nassar. Many cried as they told
their stories on the hearing’s first day, and some requested anonymity. Others unleashed. “I testified to let the world know that you are a repulsive liar and those ‘treatments’ were pathetically veiled sexual abuse,” victim Kyle Stephens said to Nassar, who often bowed his head and closed his eyes or looked away as she and others spoke. Stephens, the first victim
to speak, said Nassar repeatedly abused her from age 6 until age 12 during family visits to his home in Holt, near Lansing. She said he rubbed his genitals on her and digitally penetrated her, among other abuse. She said Nassar denied it, and her parents initially believed him. Stephens said she largely blamed her father’s suicide on the shame and self-loathing he
felt for defending Nassar. “Perhaps you have figured it out by now, but little girls don’t stay little forever,” Stephens said. “They grow into strong women that return to destroy your world.” The judge consoled the 29 women and girls who spoke or had their statements read on Tuesday, saying they should not blame themselves. More victims will speak on Wednesday.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Sterling Global Development Limited seeks to hire experienced professionals for the following positions:
Development Manager The successful candidate will: • Be responsible for one or several vertical and horizontal real estate development projects. • Manage all consultants from concept plan through construction drawings and work with the Construction Manager through to completion of each project. • Coordinate closely with the Sales & Marketing team throughout all phases of the project to ensure sales success. • Coordinate closely with the Accounting team and will be responsible for the bottom-line performance of his/her projects overall. • Report directly to the President of Sterling Global Development Limited. Qualifications should include: • Undergraduate and/or graduate degree(s) in engineering, architecture or business • Significant experience in running all aspects of a real estate project • A strong understanding of design, construction and pro formas • An instinct for marketing and sales • Proven management ability to lead a team of consultants and work within a development team The successful candidate must be based in Nassau, Bahamas. Occasional travel will be required.
Development Analyst The successful candidate will: • Be responsible for preparing, monitoring and updating financial models for projects under development and for prospective acquisitions. As the Analyst increases in skill level, he/she will be involved in strategic reviews of potential acquisitions and their capital structure. • Have two two/three years’ experience related to financial analysis and will already have a high skill level related to spreadsheet preparation and analysis. • Have significant growth potential. The Analyst position can lead to a career path for more senior roles in general real estate development and operations, or in finance and M&A. • Report directly to the President of Sterling Global Development Limited. Salary and incentive compensation will be commensurate with experience and a proven record of performance. Qualified individuals should submit complete applications to: bahamascareers@gmail.com. Only those shortlisted will be contacted. Please no phone calls.
THE TRIBUNE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018, PAGE 13
No major crime at Fish Fry, insists Tourism Minister By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday suggested no “major crime” occurs at Arawak Cay, insisting local reports “sensationalise” issues at the site. Speaking with reporters before heading into a Cabinet meeting yesterday, Mr D’Aguilar said he wasn’t “worried” about the safety and security of foreign visitors who travel to Fish Fry at Arawak Cay because the site only experiences “nuisance crime”. The Free Town MP said he has personally visited Fish Fry over the past three days to gauge the concerns of vendors and as a result he said he feels secure in his belief that only “petty crime” occurs at the site. “There are people taking advantage of foreign visitors, selling them goods that they have no intention of delivering,” he told reporters. “And so, yes, we need to enhance police presence on the ground to remove those nuisances. But there is no major crime going on down there. It is more nuisance crime.” In interviews in the wake of the US State Department’s most recent advisory to its citizens warning them to avoid visiting Fish Fry at night, vendors have suggested “illicit activities” and solicitation have plagued the site. During a press conference at Arawak Cay on Friday, members of the Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable & Food Vendors Association said government mismanagement, insufficient police presence and poor lighting are among the many factors
ARAWAK Cay on West Bay Street. contributing to the current obviously as a businessstate of the Fish Fry. man if you are putting The vendors have also together such an event, called for immediate inter- you are going to engage vention to help alleviate the the police and secuissues. rity forces to ensure that In response yesterday, you guest have a safe Mr D’Aguilar stated: “In event.” every city there are areas Mr D’Aguilar emphathat are of concern for for- sised that on average, 6.3 eign visitors. I always like million foreign visitors to reiterate that you must come to the Bahamas annuexercise common sense ally, and of that number, in when going to certain areas excess of 99 percent come whether it be at night or and leave without incident. other times that would be He said the country does considered dangerous.” itself a disservice by only He furthered: “So, when focusing on the few inciyou develop tours or you dents of trouble, adding in develop excursions into other Caribbean countries areas where you are con- issues are reported but cerned about security, aren’t sensationalised.
“When you compare the Caribbean and you compare Nassau, the Bahamas to other major cities in the world, if I was a foreign visitor I would feel safe. When you go to London, you always have to watch out for some terrorist or someone gone amuck. “Or you go to New York, I was recently at Grand Central Station and they had a compliment of armed forces in there with sub-machine guns and everybody is always looking around and you are always worried about who is going to come in there and start creating havoc or which terrorist is going to create havoc.
Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff “We don’t have that in it, but not sensationalisthe Caribbean. The Car- ing it. That is maybe what ibbean is safe from that we have to focus on,” he perspective. You are going contended. to have the one-off events Mr D’Aguilar said of a robbery or something his ministry is workmore dangerous, but by ing closely with its law and large, we have to focus enforcement counterparts on the good stories and to ensure areas frequented not constantly beat our- by tourist are secured and selves over the bad stories. properly monitored. And sometimes, we are He presented the case of our own worst enemies. In Cabbage Beach, where his our quest to sensational- ministry has realigned the ise an event, we damage the types of services offered destination.” and implemented a licenc“So, if you think about ing system for vendors. Mexico, you think about However, he said Jamaica - they have far enforcement, or the lack worse crime problems than thereof, continues to be his we do, but they have mas- ministry’s biggest concern tered the art of reporting and focus.
PAGE 14, Wednesday, January 17, 2018
THE TRIBUNE