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Volume: 121 No.40, January 19, 2024

THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: PRICE–$1

DETENTION ‘IS PRICE WE PAY’ Munroe says wrongful identification and arrest a ‘potential inconvenience’

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said though facial recognition CCTVs may wrongly identify someone as a criminal, “being arrested on suspicion and being held up to 48 hours is part of the price we pay for living in a free, democratic,

orderly society”.

“This is what the prime minister talks about when he talks about potential inconvenience,” he said during yesterday’s Office of the Prime Minister press briefing. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said on Sunday that more intrusive policing is coming in response to the SEE PAGE THREE

GOVT GRAPPLING WITH HOW TO PROVE SOMEONE IS IN A GANG

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net EVEN as the Davis administration promises to strengthen anti-gang legislation in response to the murder rate, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said the government is grappling with how to prove someone is

An ‘Iconic’ visit

a gang member.

He said: “The nature of The Bahamas is this: a bunch of us are related to each other. So, if you see us together and acting in concert, are you saying we’re a criminal gang? And when you charge us being a criminal gang, I say, well, that’s just my cousin. The SEE PAGE THREE

ROYAL Caribbean Music Makers wowed guests with their performance shoreside and onboard when Royal Caribbean International’s ICON of the SEAS, the world’s largest cruise ship and Royal Caribbean’s first family styled ship, docked at Nassau Cruise Port January 18 for its inaugural call on the Port of Nassau.

Photo: Ronnie Archer/DPA

Man shot after police say he took weapon from a female officer POLICE shot a 29-yearold man yesterday after he allegedly disarmed a female officer.

Police said officers were responding to an attempted housebreaking on Ocean Street, Malcolm Road,

around noon when they observed a silver colored Nissan Cube leaving the area at a high rate of speed.

Police later intercepted the vehicle.

After getting out of the vehicle, one of the suspects

confronted the female officer and took her service weapon after a struggle.

“As a result, a male colleague, being in fear of his life and the life of his SEE PAGE FIVE

cieon was ‘sweet and loving’, Family member says

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net CIEON Davis often visited Latter Rain Way, one of his favourite spots in Abaco, to sit, talk and laugh with his friends, but he met his death there on Tuesday when a gunman shot him 13 times, leaving his dead body in the road and his family distraught.

CIEON DAVIS Relatives remembered the 38-year-old as a quiet, loving person who often

Fisherman HAIL GOVT decision on boat Fee rise

By NEIL HARTNELL and YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporters

played with his nieces and nephews.

“He was sweet and loving even with all of his nieces and nephews and cousins.

Everyone just cling to him.

Ceoin was just a people’s person and it’s just so sad to see how his life ended,” said Paulette Arnett, his aunt.

Mr Davis, the first Family Island murder victim for

BAHAMIAN fishermen yesterday said they would “have no problem” paying 100-150 percent boat registration fee increases as they hailed the decision to suspend the “utterly devastating” four-digit hikes.

Keith Carroll, the National Fisheries Association’s (NFA) president, said that increasing them by 1,000 percent or more “couldn’t work” and amounted to “taxing Bahamian fishermen out of business”.

SEE PAGE FIVE

FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 3

Detention ‘is price we pay’, says Munroe from page one soaring murder rate. He said the government will install more surveillance technology using facial recognition CCTVs to help with crime detection.

The New York Times reported facial recognition technology flaws in 2019.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology reported that year that the systems falsely identified African-American and Asian faces ten to 100 times more than Caucasian faces. As part of that study, researchers accessed more than 18 million photos of about 8.5 million people from mug shots, visa applications and border-crossing databases in the United States.

Yesterday, Mr Munroe said ordinary eyewitness identification can also lead to arresting the wrong person. He noted that judges inform jurors that visual identification can be mistaken.

“They’re not talking now about a picture that you can freeze, so if you have facial rec where we have a shooting here and we query the system and it says the person who shot the person is at the podium at the OPM press office and they come and pick me up, when they sit me down at some point since the evidence is the original recording, they will look at the original

recording and say oh that’s not Munroe,” he said.

“I will be inconvenienced by having been arrested on suspicion, but being arrested on suspicion and being held up to 48 hours is part of the price we pay for living in a free, democratic, orderly society, and so this is what the prime minister talks about when he talks about potential inconvenience.

“So the facial recognition, the artificial intelligence component, could lead to them wrongly identifying you because it looks very close to the person who did it, but when you sit down and now look at the picture, if you ever have to say it’s not you, sorry.”

Mr Munroe described facial recognition technology as a tool that can free the innocent and convict the guilty.

“As we expand the coverage of CCTV footage, the beauty of technology is it could exonerate you just as well as it could implicate you,” he said. “So if someone were wrongly identifying you based on a visual identification, if you don’t have the CCTV, you will get charged because the person will pick you out of a line-up, and we have what the judge says. But if we have the CCTV footage, we’ll be able to stop it, look and be able to say that’s not the person.”

‘Commissioner will look to resolve ankle monitor issues with vendor’

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander would meet Metro Security Solutions leaders, hoping to get on the same page about the ankle monitoring system after the two sides blamed the other for challenges.

People on bail comprise a prominent subset of murder victims.

Ministry of National Security consultant Carlos Reid told The Tribune last year that the ankle monitoring system company is ineffective. The company’s president, Orion Bethel, countered that police don’t always respond to notifications about people breaking bail conditions.

Commissioner Fernander later highlighted cases of people on bail travelling outside the jurisdiction contrary to their bail conditions.

“That is something that should have been picked up if they are leaving the jurisdiction and the police notified so that we could move in and put them back before

the court,” he said.

During yesterday’s press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, Mr Munroe said “finger-pointing is not productive”.

“The police are saying what they are saying, the vendor is saying, look, every time somebody does that, you instantly get a text message to say so-and-so has done this, and you can locate him at that point, but you all don’t respond,” he said.

“So, the finger-pointing is something that is not productive, and the commissioner says to me that they will meet to resolve it because, quite frankly, you say you’re not doing your job, and they say the police aren’t doing their job and the objective is that we have to maximise the use and efficiency of any technology.”

Mr Bethel told The Tribune last year that its system automatically sends SMS messages to police officers when someone breaches a bail condition.

He said the company updates the Ministry of National Security every two days and that 85 per cent of people wearing ankle bracelets comply with bail conditions.

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe.

Photo: Moise Amisial

GOVT GRAPPLING WITH HOW TO PROVE SOMEONE IS IN A GANG from page one question of burden of proof, standards of proof, have to be looked at with regard to particular circumstances.”

The renewed focus on gangs comes as 14 people were killed so far this year.

During his national address on Sunday, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis promised to crack down on gang-related activities. His administration has long promised to strengthen anti-gang laws, and he did so again during his speech.

Mr Munroe, however, said there are times when it may be assumed that a large group of people are in a gang, but there must be sufficient proof to show they indeed are.

“The starting issue is this:

How do you prove someone’s in a gang? There’s issues about the burden of proof,” he told reporters at an Office of the Prime Minister press briefing. “One of the most vexing things is your relationships are often known by the person themselves who are in a relationship.”

Asked if he believed the current anti-gang legislation was ineffective, Mr Munroe noted the lack of prosecutions over the years.

He said: “It’s been in place for some time, right?

The police have their intelligence of who these gang members are. The fact that you’ve not had a multiplicity of prosecutions indicates that the current law in our reality has issues around proof that are challenging, and that is what we’re looking at to address.”

He stressed that redrafting the anti-gang legislation shouldn’t be rushed because it must first be fully effective.

For his part, Attorney General Ryan Pinder said the penal code penalises gang membership, but the government wants to do more to treat gangs as criminal institutions.

He echoed Mr Munroe’s concerns, saying the legislation must follow the constitution.

“We do want to be strong in our penalties,” he added. “We do want to create offences not just for members and not just for those individuals carrying out criminal activities. We see these gangs as criminal enterprises and criminal institutions and they should be treated as such under the legislation as well.”

PAGE 4, Friday, January 19, 2024

THE TRIBUNE

Marathon MP takes 40 senior citizens to lunch

Cooper not concerned that crime will impact tourism

TOURISM MINISTER CHESTER COOPER

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net TOURISM Minister Chester Cooper said he is not concerned that crime will impact tourism, adding: “The Bahamas is a safe place.”

He said he is confident that the police will address the murder rate.

“I met today with the Commissioner of Police for the weekly briefing. I’m confident that they are putting in place strategies that we all will be equally confident in, hopefully very soon,” he said.

“The Bahamas is a safe place. When do our reviews abroad. This isn’t something that comes up on the radar at all. So we’re focused on continuing to build a product, really to grow opportunities for our guests to enjoy downtown Nassau as well as the rest of the islands of The Bahamas.”

“We have a magnificent archipelago. We have a magnificent region in the Caribbean region with our 16 island destinations, and we are very excited about what we have to offer to the world.”

Fourteen people have been killed in 2024, one of the deadliest starts ever to a year.

40 senior citizens were treated to a day out in town by State Minister for Urban Renewal Lisa Rahming.

Photos: Moise Amisial

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net ON a joyous day of eating delicious food, making new friends, and learning crime prevention tips, 40 senior citizens were treated to a day out in town by the Marathon Urban Renewal Senior Association.

State Minister for Urban Renewal Lisa Rahming hosted the senior citizens to a luncheon at Curly’s restaurant at Fish Fry. She said it was important to bring smiles to their faces, especially when there’s so much sad news due to the country’s murder rate.

The Marathon MP said she wanted the senior residents to feel loved, comfortable, and entertained.

“Most of our seniors, they’re home alone, they have nothing to do or they’re bored, so we find activities for them,” she said. “And this is one for them to come together and to know other seniors who live in the community who

HEINEKEN CELEBRATES THEIR FIRST TIME SPONSORSHIP OF MARATHON BAHAMAS

TEAM members from Commonwealth Brewery Limited gather for a photo after completing the Pink Run in support of Cancer Research at the 2024 Marathon Bahamas event.

they can share stories with.

And so this is just one of the methods I would say we use to bring our community together.”

Ms Rahming noted that senior citizens are one of the most vulnerable groups in society. She said the group of seniors were also treated to a crime

symposium by Urban Renewal, where they learned about safety tips to protect themselves.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Jermaine Adderley, a part of the Marathon Urban Renewal team, said senior citizens were engaged in the crime symposium.

Sabrina Demeritte, 64, who participated in the luncheon and symposium, said the day was amazing. She said she got numbers for police officers in case she had concerns.

She said she made new friends at the luncheon and hopes more events for the community will occur.

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

A RACEGOER poses happily with an ice-cold Heineken Silver after crossing the finish line at the recent 2024 Marathon Bahamas race.

ON Sunday, January 14th addition to the Heineken the highly anticipated Mar- Family, Heineken Silver. athon Bahamas running Competitors could be event made its return to the seen celebrating the sucstreets of New Providence. cessful completion of their After a forced hiatus races with an ice-cold due to the COVID-19 Heineken Silver in hand. pandemic, nearly 2000 Avid 5k race goers and participants laced up their distance athletes alike running shoes and took part have grown familiar with in the organization’s first Heineken 0.0 at sporting event of the year. events, relishing in being Marathon attendees able to celebrate athletic ventured from countries accomplishments like a as far as Tonga and The first-time half-marathon Netherlands to take part race, with their favorite in the race. However, the non-alcoholic beer. athletes were not the only “CBL was thrilled to be a ones excited to be present part of this impactful event; on Sunday morning, as this we are a world class brand year the Heineken brand and are constantly looking made its debut as a first- for positive initiatives to time sponsor. align with and Marathon Commonwealth Brewery Bahamas created the ideal Limited (CBL) has been a event for our brands to be proud sponsor of the Marafeatured,” said André thon Bahamas organization Woldt, Marketing Director for over a decade through at CBL. its brands, Kalik and VitaHe also stated that CBL malt, and was proud to offer remains committed to supthis year’s attendees even porting organizations that more refreshing beverage strive to protect the health options with the addition and welfare of our comof Heineken, Heineken munity through lifesaving 0.0 and the most recent research and initiatives.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 5

Cieon was a ‘sweet and loving’ man, family member says from page one the year, was at home when someone called him, prompting him to leave.

“The next thing we knew, he was gunned down and killed,” Ms Arnett said.

Police said they were alerted to the shooting by a concerned citizen.

Ms Arnett said: “The area that he get kill in, frequently he would just walk out there, sit down with the boys out there and laugh and talk and no one said they had any conflict with him, not the ones who we spoke to.”

Police have since taken two people –– a man and a woman –– into custody. The family, however, is perplexed, wondering what the motive was behind the killing.

“It’s not easy,” said Mrs Arnett.

“We don’t know the reason why because he was such a sweet, loving man. He don’t get himself in no trouble. The family members are taking it hard, but we’re still holding and trusting in God and believing that justice will prevail, and I must say, the police are doing an excellent job.”

Mrs Arnett said her nephew worked as a landscaper and plumber with the local government.

“My last conversation with him is I came by the house and asked for my sister,” she said. “He say ‘Aunty, mommy ain’t here, I just come from work and she’s not here’.”

“My granddaughter was with me and once she come here, that’s her favourite cousin so you know her father died and she cling to all of our cousins that way and so she’s five years old and so all she do is run and run to him. He would hug her, kiss her and give her little gifts and make sure every time he see her, put something in her hand.”

Davis’ killing was one of three murders between Tuesday and Wednesday, pushing the murder tally to 14.

It followed a series of deadly shootings.

This week, the Davis administration released its crime plan in response to the soaring murder rate, but the opposition called it a “glossy brochure” with vague details and recycled information.

CIEON DAVIS

Man shot after police say he took weapon from a female officer from page one colleague, withdrew his police service weapon, which led to the suspect being shot to his hand and lower torso,” police said.

“He was taken to the hospital via EMS services, where he is detained in critical condition.”

Meanwhile, police said a second suspect, a 34-year-old man who was known to police

for housebreaking, was apprehended.

A search of the vehicle revealed a variety of electronics, including flat-screen televisions and gaming consoles, all suspected of being stolen.

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

PAGE 6, Friday, January 19, 2024

The Tribune Limited In defence NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN V E RBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

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C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B. Publisher/E ditor 1972-

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Implementing crime crackdown not easy THE hurdles faced in implementing any crackdown in crime are challenging – and in today’s Tribune we see a glimpse of the difficulty, and a hint of the price people may be asked to pay.

First, let us look at the anti-gang legislation being considered by the government.

The trouble, as highlighted by National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, is how do you prove that someone is in a gang? There are no club cards, there is no formal membership – how can you prove membership in a gang rather than simply associating with friends or relatives?

A murder is a murder. A robbery is a robbery. The action itself carries with it a set punishment.

Membership of a gang may not have an action that breaks a law as it stands – and certainly defining the evidence needed to prove that is a difficulty.

Mr Munroe pointed out that current anti-gang legislation has not seen prosecutions take place, and certainly is not impeding gang membership currently.

And something to consider – The Tribune also reports today on a court case that alleges a boy was attacked for refusing to join a gang.

That boy was brave enough to stand up to others – how many others may have joined simply to avoid such an assault? Does that make them liable for prosecution in a court of law?

Meanwhile, Mr Munroe also pointed out the price we ought to be prepared to pay – namely being locked up for up to 48 hours on suspicion if we happen to be wrongly identified by a camera.

Being locked up for two days is described by Mr Munroe as being “inconvenienced”.

He said “being arrested on suspicion and being held up to 48 hours is part of the price we pay for living in a free, democratic, orderly society, and so this is what the prime minister talks

about when he talks about potential inconvenience”.

Mr Munroe, it should be noted, was previously dismissive of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s report which found that detainees are often held for significantly longer than 48 hours without extensions being granted by a court.

He said at the time: “They speak about persons being detained for more than five days. Well, anybody who does the math would know that if you are charged on a Friday having been in custody for five days, there is no court to bring you before on a Saturday or a Sunday, and so you will end up being in custody for seven days.”

He also dismissed other aspects of the report because the group spoke to detainees and criminals as part of their work, with Mr Munroe urging people to trust law enforcement and not the “adverse” report findings, adding: “When you decide whose account to believe, I just want you to take into account that the prisoner, the criminal, would always like you to silence your watchdog.”

A combination of potentially increasing the likelihood of detentions combined with a dismissive attitude both to the consequences of such occurrences and the refusal to accept concerns raised by international bodies is a dangerous mix.

Successive governments have already faced numerous legal challenges over unlawful detentions, and have not fared well in the courts in response.

This is a situation where we must tread very carefully. Human rights are just that, rights, and not to be trampled with impunity.

Prosecutions require evidence for courts to decide. And courts can decide on detentions too. Detentions cannot be arbitrary, and those that are carried out unlawfully will find a legal remedy awaits.

THE TRIBUNE

of our police officers EDITOR, The Tribune.

FOR the greater part of fifty years, I have been privy to a set of judgemental remarks enunciated by people who have had the gall to levy these against, and toward our police officers, having done so, without the proof in many instances, when the sacrifices given the part of officers, these brilliant and valiant patriots were unmatched anywhere else in these Isles. You might ask the writer, what are you talking about?

Very glad that you’ve asked and here is the reasoning behind it...(before I attempt to go there I must point out that, except for civil matters in some cases, attorneys and lawyers, their assistants, staffers, etcetera, all of them have been able to find a livelihood, because of the workings of the officers of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF).

Moving right along, what members of the Bahamian public have not been privy to the level, expanse and extent of the sacrifices that, especially police officers, have laid their health on the line, not wanting to talk yet about the life or death, but how officers reported to duty and during the course of the shifts, criminals were engaged in committing crimes in certain islands of the country.

These same officers were then told to return home and pack a bag for a one week’s journey...and what was promised one week oftentimes extended two weeks, camping out in the forests, a kind of Gorilla Warfare Wait See, near airstrips, or runway (the protection of the state).

And as the intel suggested, police were able to nab the suspects and their load of whatever.

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net Now, while I think that it is unfair to compare the work of the Judiciary, their overall result, to that of our police force, because of the numbers differentials, I believe that the Judicial Branch of the Government must be mindful of the pivotal role that each plays, and how they must work together as kit-in-glove, my grandmother used to call it.

I also think that the membership of the courts ought never to point the finger at the efforts of the police, because based on what I know of how hard our officers have worked years past, we have the easily verifiable proof of it to back this up...and the police have had more success than the entire court system, I dare say....and as the former national security minister the Hon A Loftus Roker used to say, don’t press me, because I have more information, than you think I have.

But you know, had it not been for the members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, where might this country have been?

I had better supply the information: When I joined the Fire Service back in 1978, and how I was being favoured in that division moving from the actual firefighting for a time, to the fire investigation sector and finally in that division to the fire prevention area as a fire inspector.

Unaware that Father God had had His hands and was directing my life...I was sent to work in the Attorney Generals Section/Supreme Court side, and working under Police Inspector Mr Reginald Gaitor, this designation

caused me to have to work with locating witnesses for courts, settings of cases, and inclusive of rounding up witnesses, even from the Family islands, access to the backlog files, and the constant debates being pursued, sued, and my Inspector was very concerned, he said with the shared number of Criminal files sitting gathering dust.

What do I mean? If my memory serves me right, there were in excess of 100,000 (one hundred thousand Criminal Case Files), just sitting there in the backlog.

For the sake of explanation for members of the public, who may not know what these represent? This represented how many Criminal case files that the police were able to complete, and as the chain of custody of those files goes, the over 100,000 plus criminal case files were handed over to the Judicial Branch of the Government, so that they should be able to continue the prosecution thereof, which was their mandate to do.

Editor, it is easy to say that the police were processing these detections, arrests, prosecutions, etcetera, more quickly than Courts were able to process.

And I get it that the crimes were happening with a greater clip than we have the proportionate courts, or justices were able to dispose off.

This was about 1995, or so and I suspect that that may be much more...not to mention the number of outstanding warrants, traffic files or cases all across the board, were problematic?

I can go on and on, but I rest.

FRANK GILBERT Nassau, January 15, 2024.

Rev Bain’s remarks not Calls DPMs scriptural tenure ‘deficient’ EDITOR, The Tribune.

EDITOR, The Tribune.

IN an objective yet unflinchingly critical examination of Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper’s performance, it becomes increasingly evident that his contributions to the current administration, particularly in handling major national issues, are alarmingly deficient. The role of a Deputy Prime Minister is not merely ceremonial; it is one of substantial responsibility and action, akin to a prince adeptly governing in the king’s stead. However, Mr Cooper’s actions, or the lack thereof, paint a different picture.

Take, for example, the protracted saga of the Grand Bahama airport reconstruction and the Grand Lucayan resort deal. These are minor bureaucratic hiccups and significant national crises that demand decisive leadership. To put it mildly, Mr Cooper’s handling of these situations has been far from satisfactory. His apparent lack of visible leadership

and proactive engagement in these critical issues raises questions about his efficacy and his commitment to national interests.

In times when dynamic leadership is most needed, Mr Cooper’s approach seems to be one of passivity and obscurity, primarily personality-driven rather than one of substance. The question then arises: Is he merely a figurehead in the role of Deputy Prime Minister, detached from the pressing concerns of the nation? In my opinion his seeming inability to effectively manage and resolve key issues undermines the Prime Minister’s efficiency.

Tourists will come to the Bahamas whether or not there is a Minister of Tourism there, so the victory lap over numbers is foolish.

The Prime Minister, Philip Davis, indeed requires a deputy who is not just a placeholder but a dynamic force - a deputy who is visibly at the forefront, tackling the nation’s significant challenges

head-on.

Unfortunately, Mr Cooper’s tenure thus far suggests a concerning absence of these crucial qualities. In this context, one cannot help but wonder: Is Mr Cooper merely biding time in his role, or is he genuinely committed to fulfilling the weighty responsibilities of his high office?

If Mr Cooper aspires to ascend to the highest office in the land, he must first excel in his current role as the prince. Leadership is not just a title but an action, a commitment to serve and to lead. It is important to remember that many princes are among the flock, all capable of growing into kings.

The path to the throne is not guaranteed, and it is paved with the accomplishments and failures of one’s tenure. Mr Cooper must heed this reality and rise to the expectations of his role, for the future waits for no one.

LINDA KEMP January 18, 2024

THE Tribune published an article regarding Reverend Harry Bain’s remarks on the death penalty at Christ Church Cathedral last week. According to the article, Rev Bain is quoted as stating that he does not support capital punishment because it is contrary to the New Testament.

I find it deeply troubling that a leading man of the cloth would lend his voice to the anti-capital punishment camp in the midst of a bloodbath. Bain is an Anglican. As a high ranking clergyman within the Anglican Church, Bain should be familiar with the ThirtyNine Articles of Religion.

This document presents the beliefs and practices of the Anglican Church. It was published in the 16th century. Based on my layman’s interpretation of Article 17, it would appear that the Anglican statements of faith is Calvinistic. This would then mean that the church leans towards the theological system of John Calvin, who was pro-capital punishment. In fact, Article 37 of the Thirty-Nine Articles affirms the death penalty, by stating that the “laws of the Realm (of England) may punish Christian

men with death, for heinous and grievous offences”. The founder of the Church of England, King Henry VIII, executed over 57,000 rebels, including two of his wives.

It was King Henry who brought the Reformation of Martin Luther to England.

Luther, by the way, was also pro-death penalty.

Why am I stating all this church history? Because I want the readership to see that Bain’s views on the death penalty do not align with the Anglican Church’s past history. Furthermore, a cursory reading of the New Testament Book of Romans 13 would show that Bain’s views on capital punishment are not derived from sound hermeneutics.

In verse four of that chapter, saint Paul said that rulers bear not the sword in vain. I find it interesting that Bain chose to mention the New Testament instead of the Old. Bain knows that under Israel’s theocratic system of government, murderers, rapists, idolators, sabbath breakers and those who defame the name of Yahweh were put to death.

That is why death penalty opponents hate to mention the Old Testament in their arguments. The Tribune article did not state any particular Bible verse

or chapter in support of Bain’s views on the subject.

Most anti-capitalist punishment advocates love to quote Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5 through 7 and Luke 6.

Whatever commands were given by Jesus in His famous sermon, they were given to the church, not to the state. No civilisation would survive with a government turning the other cheek to murderers, rapists, paedophiles, armed robbers and violent gangsters. If one were to take these people’s Sermon on the Mount argument to its logical conclusion, then the Progressive Liberal Party government should issue a pardon to each inmate housed at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. What God expects of the civil authority and its subjects is elaborated in Romans 13:1-8; Titus 3:1 and 1 Peter 2:13-14. I challenge Bain to produce one New Testament verse that prohibits the death penalty.

Just one. In this regard, I do not believe that Bain’s opposition is based on the New Testament.

KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama January 14, 2024.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 7

Three juveniles accused of stabbing Young mother sentenced one year of prison for 13-year-old for not joining gang in GB to abandoning her two sons

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THREE juveniles were charged in the Magistrate’s Court in Grand Bahama on Thursday for allegedly stabbing a 13-year-old boy.

The minors, ages 13, 14, and 15, appeared with their guardians before Magistrate Simone Brown.

Ernie Wallace represented the 15-year-old.

It is alleged that on Tuesday, January 16, at Lewis Yard, the minors intentionally caused grievous harm

to the boy.

The minors were not allowed to enter a plea because a Juvenile Panel was absent.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Garth McIntosh said the victim had stomach surgery and sustained an injury to his liver. He said the injured boy was eating through a feeding tube.

Sgt McIntosh reported that the victim was in stable condition. He did not object to bail.

Mr Wallace asked the court to grant his client and the other minors

reasonable bail.

“I once sat where you sit, and these matters trouble me most,” said the attorney and former magistrate.

He said he hopes the young men can soon put the bad experiences behind them and become productive citizens.

Magistrate Brown granted the juveniles $7,000 bail with one surety each and ordered that they not contact the complainant.

The case was adjourned to March 17 before a Juvenile Panel.

MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER OF LASHAWN HIGGS

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was yesterday charged with the murder of Lashawn Higgs after a fight outside a bar on January 12 on Carmichael Road yesterday and sent to prison

until his trial starts.

Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged David Wilson Jr, 30, with murder.

Walter Hanchell represented the accused.

Wilson reportedly fought with Mr Higgs outside the bar and allegedly

stabbed the victim multiple times, resulting in his death at the scene.

The defendant was told his matter would be moved to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

Wilson’s VBI is slated for service on March 12.

MAN ACCUSED OF PARALYSING WOMAN CHARGED

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 26-YEAR-OLD man is behind bars after he allegedly paralysed a 47-year-old woman last weekend.

Magistrate Kendra Kelly charged Kevin Taylor with attempted murder

yesterday.

Taylor allegedly injured Syretta Dames’ back on January 12 in New Providence, reportedly breaking the woman’s spine and leaving her paralysed.

He was told that his case would be transferred to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill

of indictment (VBI). He will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

The accused’s VBI is slated for service on March 22.

Ian Cargill represented the accused.

MAN CHARGED WITH ARMED ROBBERY OUTSIDE BANK

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was imprisoned yesterday after he allegedly robbed a man at gunpoint outside a bank parking lot last November.

Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged Frank Dorsett, 25, with

armed robbery.

Alphonso Lewis represented the defendant.

Dorsett, while armed with a black handgun, allegedly robbed Alexander Henfield of $300 just after he made a withdrawal from the Bank of The Bahamas on John F Kennedy Drive on November 6, 2023.

The accused was told that his matter would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

He will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

His VBI is set for service on March 12.

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 23-YEAR-OLD mother appeared unfazed as she was sentenced to one year in prison yesterday for child abandonment.

She admitted leaving her two young sons alone in a dilapidated building for two days.

During this time, the defendant says she was with her boyfriend while her kids were left without food or water.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged the woman, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the children, with two counts of cruelty to children.

Authorities reportedly rescued an eight-yearold and a three-year-old boy from an abandoned and unsanitary building in Nassau Village on January 14. After the defendant was arrested in connection with this incident, she said they were

left alone for two days.

The older boy had been caring for his younger sibling and indicated he hadn’t been in school for a while.

The children were placed in the children’s emergency hostel.

After pleading guilty to the charge, the defendant explained that she was with her boyfriend while her kids were alone and said she got “distracted” while staying with him.

She further claimed that she had difficulties reaching out to the Ministry of Social Services to provide for the children and that she lives with them in the same abandoned building. The defendant also said that neighbours would sometimes give her children food.

When questioned by Magistrate Vogt-Evans about her actions, the defendant said she felt bad and was sorry for what she’d done.

Prosecutor ASP Lewis told the court that the defendant has a history of such negligent behaviour.

The defendant disagreed.

The defendant asked that the court place her on probation with counselling. She also requested help taking care of her children.

Magistrate Vogt-Evans called the defendant irresponsible and said she did not appear remorseful for the danger she put her children through. The magistrate also said the defendant’s mitigation did not justify the neglect and abandonment of her children.

The defendant was sentenced to one year at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, during which time her children will remain in protective custody.

Upon her release, the defendant must receive counselling and have supervised visitation with her offspring. The Ministry of Social Services will then decide whether she regains custody of the children.

The accused was given the right to appeal her sentencing.

MAN SENT TO PRISON AFTER PLEADING GUILTY TO POSSESSION OF AN UNLICENCED FIREARM

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 20-YEAR-OLD man had a tearful embrace with his mother before he was sent to prison for 18 months after admitting to a gun charge yesterday.

Lamarre Jeanlouis appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley for the continuation of his trial on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition.

Mark Penn represented the accused.

Inspector Deon Barr served as prosecutor.

Police stopped Jeanlouis and a male accomplice on a track road near Wilson Street on April 4, 2023.

The defendant was arrested after police found a silver and black .40 Smith & Wesson pistol with seven rounds of ammunition tucked in his waist.

In his latest court appearance, Jeanlouis reversed his earlier stance and pleaded guilty.

Magistrate Reckley commended him for taking responsibility for his actions, knowing that doing

so would result in a custodial sentence.

Jeanlouis was ordered to serve 18 months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, during which time he must enrol in a trade course. The defendant must further pay a fine of $2,500 or risk an additional six months in custody. He was informed of his right to appeal sentencing within seven days.

Tears streamed down the young defendant’s face as he was allowed a final moment with relatives before being taken into remand.

Changes needed to reduce traffic fatalities on Eleuthera’s streets PAGE 8, Friday, January 19, 2024

HOW many of our mothers, fathers, children, community leaders, educators and visitors will we continue losing to traffic fatalities in Eleuthera?

Behind each life lost and statistic lies a personal tragedy; it represents a member of a close-knit community, a friend, a family member, or a neighbour taken away prematurely. The tranquil beauty of Eleuthera, with its pristine beaches and charming communities, is facing an unsettling reality again – an alarming resurgence in traffic accidents and fatalities that demand our urgent attention.

In 2023, Traffic Division Chief Superintendent David Lockhart and his team shared in a town hall meeting held in Eleuthera that there was a 600 percent increase in fatalities when comparing 2021 to 2022. In 2021, Eleuthera recorded 73 crashes. In 2022, that number jumped to 117. In just the first month of 2024, there have already been two fatalities.

Accidents on the island can be unforgiving. Due to Eleuthera’s narrow topography and the lengthy, winding Queen’s Highway with sparse lighting and limited road reflectors in certain areas, navigating the road is challenging, especially at night. As the number of vehicles on the island increases, so does the need for a collective commitment to road safety.

Several factors are escalating the road safety crisis in Eleuthera. As the island ascends to the second most visited destination in The Bahamas, the notable increase in visitors, developers, and persons moving to the island has led to a surge in vehicular traffic. Driving under the influence, speeding, and inattention are contributing factors to the rise in traffic accidents and fatalities.

Additionally, Chief Superintendent Lockhart revealed that many of these accidents occurred because individuals were engaged in activities that deterred their focus while driving their vehicles, neglecting the attention required on the road. The stark reality of “speed kills” is also evident as police revealed that some persons clocked 100 miles per hour when

THE TRIBUNE

By Keyron Smith

of One Eleuthera Foundation

they conducted checks in settlements. Police officers also need more tools and resources to monitor traffic

Every minute counts in the aftermath of a major traffic accident. Delayed response times mean that

FOR too many, accidents on Eleuthera turn into tragedies.

KEYRON Smith - President and CEO, OEF better. Poorly maintained roads, limited signage, and insufficient lighting also compound the problem.

Fortunately, the government revealed that there will be significant improvements to Eleuthera’s road infrastructure commencing over the next few months.

The time has come for us to acknowledge the magnitude of the problem and collectively work towards solutions that prioritise road safety. It is crucial to address this issue because of the challenges we face in accident response times across our 110-mile-long island, logistical planning in delivering critical care and rescue, and the limited medical resources available to victims following major accidents.

These factors significantly affect survival rates and can intensify the strain on first responders, who are usually community volunteers with limited medical training.

the critical window of time to provide urgent care immediately following a traumatic incident slips away. This crucial period often decides the difference between life and death, making swift emergency responses non-negotiable. The correlation between delayed response times and increased fatality rates is glaring. On most family islands lacking adequate emergency medical services, the severity of injuries sustained in accidents is exacerbated, leading to a higher likelihood of fatalities and permanent injury.

As a result, there are some critical steps we need to take to help reduce accidents and fatalities on Eleuthera: 1.

Collaboration between local government, law enforcement, and community leaders is crucial.

Governmentagencies,alongside private stakeholders,

must collaborate to implement and enforce effective road safety measures. This includes regular maintenance of roadways, stringent traffic regulations, and the deployment of law enforcement to monitor and penalize offenders.

We will need more proactive measures, such as traffic calming initiatives and public awareness campaigns, to create safer streets for all.

2. Investing in clear signage and adequate lighting would significantly enhance the safety of our roads and communities.

Continued advocacy for improved infrastructure, including well-maintained roads and clear signage, is essential.

3. Education and awareness are critical tools in the fight for road safety.

Community workshops, school programs, and outreach initiatives can play a pivotal role in distributing

information about responsible driving behaviors, the importance of obeying speed limits, and the hazards of distracted driving. Our communityled initiatives, town hall meetings, and partnerships with local law enforcement can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership over our roadways.

4. It’s also time for us to give a voice and platform to those affected. Every statistic has a human story.

We must tell it. Families are grappling with the loss of loved ones, and the trickling effects extend far beyond the accident scene.

We cannot undervalue the emotional toll on survivors, witnesses, and the broader community.

5. We also have to find ways to embrace technological advancements.

Implementing smart traffic management systems, utilizing sensors for real-time monitoring, and exploring the potential of Artificial Intelligence in creating

safer roadways are all avenues that can be explored to save lives and make our streets safer for motorists and pedestrians.

The alarming increase in traffic accidents and fatalities in Eleuthera demands our immediate and concerted action.

The shift towards safer roads begins with a change in mindset.

We must take collective responsibility, with every driver, pedestrian, and community member actively fostering road safety.

As community leaders, we at One Eleuthera Foundation will continue to do our part in advocating for and supporting greater road safety measures for our communities in 2024 and beyond.

Together, we can raise awareness and drive change—ensuring that the tranquility of our communities is not disturbed by the tragedy of traffic fatalities and untimely deaths.

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THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 9

Where oh where has the Girl gone?

THE striking man saddled up to the bar, cool, confident, and in a calm voice said to the bartender, “Gimme a girl.”

The bartender knew exactly what the man wanted, turned around and in a flash handed the thirsty customer just what he asked for, a beer, a St Pauli Girl.

It wasn’t that long ago that St Pauli Girl, or Girl as its fans called it, was a favourite beer of The Bahamas. Today it has all but vanished from the scene.

Along came Kalik, and later Sands, and the Girl faded into the scrapbook of beverage memories. Were the new beers better? Maybe, maybe not. Beer, after all, is literally a matter of taste and taste is subjective. Or had production or marketing for the Girl ceased?

Why is it that some products seem to last forever and others just fade away, vacating their pedestal in a consumption-based economy for a seat in obscurity?

Remember when orangeflavoured Tang was so

By Diane Phillips

popular that astronauts chose it for their preferred easy-to-mix drink in space?

And actress Florence Henderson, the ultimate homebody mom, served it to her Brady Bunch TV family?

That was before researchers said the very stuff that gave Tang its tangy flavour and its consumer a boost was not good for your health. Then there are all those products that manufacturers dreamed would be huge game-changing successes before they actually became flops of historic proportion, like the Pacer car about as wide as it was long, or the Edsel, Ford Motor Company’s singular largest bomb. Ford lost an estimated $350m on the auto named after Henry Ford’s son. In today’s dollars, that’s

more than $2 billion. It was a failure so difficult to swallow that Ford nearly choked on it and more than half a century later, college classes still study the textbook case of how not to design, manufacture and launch a product.

Other products stand the test of time with little change. You’d be hardpressed to find brands that outshine classics like Quaker Oats and Cream of Wheat which, except for the quicker fixer varieties, haven’t changed in decades.

What their plain cardboard boxes lack in sophistication they make up for in comforting familiarity. Hot dogs, buns, ketchup and mustard are about the same today as they were when someone first discovered they were an

inexpensive way to satisfy hungry kids and their dads.

In some cases, products deserve the trouncing they get. Unfiltered Camel cigarettes that made RJ Reynolds a major player in a growing industry are about as hard to find today as someone who would argue for the health benefits of smoking. Other cigarette brands – Pall Mall among them, once the favourite of tough guy Lee Marvin – are as hard to find as a conch pearl and few have sympathy for a company that has been dealt fines ranging from a few million dollars to $23.6 billion.

If some of tobacco’s once favourite brands go up in smoke, most of us don’t feel a sense of loss though we remain surprised at the value of the companies that produce them and the share price they command.

The mystery that maybe only marketing gurus can solve is why some products

THE NEW NATIONAL CONVERSATION - SHOULD MAJORITY RULE DAY BE THE PEOPLE’S DAY? AN interesting conversation popped up on social media and other platforms, including whatsapp, on Majority Rule Day. Some of the sharpest minds in The Bahamas, including a former governor general and two former attorneys-general, contributed to the discourse. The gist of the conversation revolved around the most basic question, is it time to change January 10 from Majority Rule to The People’s Day? One contributor to the debate claimed discrimination was very much alive, claiming that as someone who is white, they have often experienced it.

Others spoke of the need to honour history. As one said, shaking off the painful shackles of discrimination must be celebrated.

But it is not only black Bahamians who were discriminated against. What about the people of mixed parentage, or those who have one Bahamian and one Haitian parent or as someone said to me the other day, with an incredulous look on his face ‘So you are a Jew?’ staring at me as if I had just been

dropped from outer space.

One of the most thought-provoking contributions came from Suzanne Black, an example of the Bahamian who would be celebrated on The People’s Day. Here, in the words of Black, who was recently honoured by the financial services industry, responding to a comment about what it must feel like to be left on the side when kids are choosing who to befriend. Who can imagine?

“I can,” said Black, recalling a childhood incident. “‘Why isn’t Sue invited to your party?’ The young man answered, ‘My Mother said she isn’t good enough to come to our house.’ We were all about 12 years old.”

Two years later, still at a delicate age, Black again felt the brunt.

“At about 14 years old, my friends became members of the Nassau Yacht Club. Despite my Mother’s warnings, I applied and was not accepted although, through my Mother’s direct appeal to Sir Roland later, I became a member.

“Yes, I can imagine. My point, however, is that one decides to move ahead with a positive mindset or one

keeps looking backward.

“Everyone has suffered negative experiences. I have been called a red b#**# in George Street in broad daylight.

“And perhaps it would not be unfair to say injustices continue. Or am I alone in having experienced being discriminated against in these times? I doubt it.

“And what about the many Haitians who suffer what they perceive to be injustices and are afraid to step forward for fear of being sent back to Haiti, despite their having legal status?

“My point is, if we want to build the better Bahamas that we keep telling the world we are, we should focus on being inclusive. The Peoples Day being to me at least, an obvious step in the right direction.

“To put it another way, saying we are all Bahamian to me, and I believe to many others, should mean using terms that comply with the “all”.

The People’s Day is an ‘all’ word.

The majority, by its very definition, is not.”

become so enmeshed in the culture that they remain popular despite every indicator that they should not and others, better for everything from your mood to the environment, are left on the trash heap of one-song wonders.

It’s especially confusing given that today’s consumer is product-hungry, eager to embrace just about anything it can pay for with a credit or debit card. Like St Pauli Girl.

So next time a striking man saddles up to the bar and asks for a Girl, the bartender will have to break the news, “Sorry, Sir, the Girl left town, though you can find her online in a

few locations. How about a Kalik or a Sands Light?

They’re made in The Bahamas.”

If you are THAT guy in search of THAT Girl, you can remind the bartender that the Girl was once made in The Bahamas, too.

Maybe you’ll just skip that beer altogether and grab a flavoured water while it’s still in style, go for a run and try to figure out something simpler than why good products vanish and others that should do not. Or you could just plain enjoy the run and the scenery and let others worry about where in the world the good Girl went.

ON a lighter note... some advice spotted in Eleuthera.

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC The Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., celebrated its 111th Founders Day on January 13 with a weekend full of community service, bonding, and empowerment.

The festivities began on January 13 with a heartwarming community service event at Elizabeth Estates Children’s Home.

Members of the Chapter dedicated the first half of their day to making donations and providing support to the children residing at the home.

Continuing their commitment to service, the members of the local chapter enthusiastically volunteered at the Pink Run hydration station on January 14th. Along the race route, they offered refreshments and encouragement to the participants, uplifting the spirits of the runners and making the event even more memorable.

Deepening their bonds, members participated in a unique “paint the town red-island bus tour” event, exploring New Providence and sharing memories while creating new ones.

The weekend celebration culminated with a worship service at Christ

MEMBERS of the Kiwanis Club of Nassau AM took part in a Christmas initiative.

Church Cathedral followed by the stylish and glamorous red hat luncheon. This event not only highlighted the legacy of Delta Sigma Theta, but also provided an opportunity for the members to showcase their individual styles while enjoying each other’s company.

Valderez Miller, president of the Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter, expressed her joy and gratitude for the successful weekend, stating, “Our 111th-Founders Day was a remarkable testament to the power of unity and Delta Sigma Theta’s contributions to the communities we serve. We are proud to uphold our sorority’s legacy and remain dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those around us.”

Established on January 13, 1913, at Howard University by twenty-two visionary women, Delta

MEMBERS of the Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill held the club’s annual Majority Rule Day Breakfast in Bain and Grants Town.

Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has consistently promoted sisterhood, scholarship, and service worldwide. The Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter has diligently embodied these principles, representing the spirit of Delta Sigma Theta throughout The Bahamas.

For further information about Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter, please visit www. deltasigmatheta.org.

KIWANIS CLUB OF NASSAU AM Each year, The Kiwanis Club of Nassau A.M. aims to help the needy in our community experience the joys of Christmas through our “Feed the Family - Spirit of Christmas” Signature Project initiative. This two-day event, kicked off on Saturday, December 16, 2023, with the second day of events being celebrated on December 26, 2023.

On day one, our members convened at the C.H. Reeves Junior High School to package 60 grocery parcels that were donated to impoverished families across the island of New Providence. These packages were equipped with one (1) month of food and health care items, along with a Fresh Meat Voucher that could be used at a local grocer.

During day two of the festivities, our members provided 350 scrumptious plated Christmas meals,

including desserts and beverages, to Children and adults in the Groove community. Additionally, each child was gifted a Christmas surprise and enjoyed the entertainment of a DJ and games like hoopla!

We extend our profound gratitude to our members, their families, and friends, along with corporate Bahamas for their donations of funding, time, and resources.

Thank You! Your sponsorship and support helped to better the lives of others and make our initiative a success.

Weekly, our club aims to better our communities through our feeding, school leadership, and outreach programs. To assist in these efforts, you can reach out to us on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok at Kiwanis Club of Nassau A.M., or directly to our secretary at kcnamclubsecretary@gmail.com.

It starts with us!

KIWANIS CLUB OF OVER-THE-HILL On Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, President Dominique Gaitor and the Kiwanis Club of OverThe-Hill under our theme “Service with Passion & Strength” continued our annual Majority Rule Day Breakfast for the residence in the Bain & Grants Town Community.

We assembled at Mother Frances Butler Park, on Meadows Street, early in the morning to begin our

FROM top, members of the Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. preparations for the delicious breakfast we were about to serve. Past Spiritual Aims Chair Neil Hamilton blessed the food that we were about to serve and ask God to bless our project. We then began serving an assortment of grits or rice with tuna, sardines, mackerel, or corn beef; with a side serving of Starbucks Coffee, Minute Maid juice or Dasani water.

By midday we had served 400 meals on this Majority Rule Holiday. We also provided slippers for those residents who needed a

pair. We were also assisted by two members of the Kiwanis K-Kids Club.

We wish to say a special thank you to Starbucks and Caribbean Bottling Company for providing coffee, juice & water to the residents.

The Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill was organized on September 24th, 1975, and remains the only all men’s Kiwanis club in Sunshine Division 22, Bahamas, under the Eastern Cananda & Caribbean District of Kiwanis International.

SPORTS PAGE 11

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

NFL, Page 14

Vanderpool raising the bar

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

L

ike father like son.

While Brent Vanderpool set the stage, he has passed the pole onto his son Brenden Vanderpool, who is now taking pole vaulting to higher heights for the Bahamas on the international scene.

At one point, Brent Vanderpool soared to the top of the bar as both the indoor and outdoor national record holder.

Last year, Brenden Vanderpool erased his father’s name from the record book when he cleared 16-feet, 7 1/4-inches or 5.06 metres for the gold at the Bahamas’ hosting of the prestigious CARIFTA Games in April to surpass Brent’s mark of 16-0 1/2 (4.89m) in 1987, also in Nassau.

Brenden Vanderpool also inked his name on the Bahamas’ junior national record, replacing the previous mark of (4.26m) that was previously held by the late Brent Johnson at the 1987 CARIFTA in Port-ofSpain, Trinidad & Tobago.

Then this year, Brent Vanderpool’s national indoor record of 16-2 3/4 (4.95m) that he established at the Naval Academy

- Halsey Field House in Annapolis, Maryland when decathlete Ken Mullings cleared 16-06 (5.03) at the Illini Open in Urbana, Illinois on January 6.

But that was short lived as Brenden Vanderpool went to the Birmingham Metro CrossPlex in Birmingham, Alabama over the weekend where he soared 16-8 3/4 (5.10m) to improve on his Bahamian national record.

Now Brenden Vanderpool, who is in his freshman year at Samford University, is following his father’s footsteps, holding both the indoor and outdoor national records at the same time.

The 18-year-old Brenden Vanderpool wasn’t done as he closed out his season by adding a silver medal with a leap of (4.95m) at the NACAC Under-23 and Under-18 Championships in San Juan in July.

“For the most part, he believed in me, so it was kind of an expected thing,” said Brenden Vanderpool about following in the footsteps of his father Brent Vanderpool. “He always knew my potential and he wasn’t shocked by my performances.

“He always knew it was going to come. Most of the time, I just listened to him, but I always wanted

POLE vaulter Brenden Vanderpool is taking the bar to higher heights for the Bahamas on the international scene. to believe that I could do it. Now that I have the records, it’s secure in a way.

It’s not just a distant dream that he is having or for me to have. It’s now a reality

and I feel like I could only build on that.”

In just his fourth year in the sport, Brenden Vanderpool said he never envisioned that he would

have achieved what he has done so far, but he owes it to God firstly, and secondly, to his father for the time and energy that he has helped him to develop, starting with his high school tenure.

“I just did it because it was just unique and fun, but I had no idea how far it would get me,” Brenden said. “And now making the transition from high school to college, I feel I can only get better in the sport.”

For the business major, the sky is certainly the limit, as far as just how high he can vault over the bar in the future.

“I’m very, very new compared to the people who I look up to and if I already attain this, how much more can I go. Really the sky is the limit for me,” he stated.

Today, Brenden Vanderpool will be back in action at the Birmingham Metro CrossPlex in Birmingham, Alabama where he will compete in the Samford Invitational.

Hopefully, it will be another sterling performance.

Proud father Brent Vanderpool, said his son Brenden’s progress is right on track as he focuses on the essentials of the pole vault.

SEE PAGE 12

Hield ‘ready’ for his first pro bout of 2024

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net PRO boxer Carl Hield concluded 2023 on a high note, winning three straight bouts since his professional debut last October. With the calendar now flipped to 2024, Hield is ready for his fourth professional fight against Jose Agustin Julio scheduled for next week Thursday. The two will go head-to-head in the super welterweight division in Cartagena, Colombia.

The undefeated boxer is ready to jump back in the ring next week against Julio.

“For me, first of all I give God thanks for the strength and knowledge that he has given me and the opportunity to get to

showcase my talent. Every fight I go into, it’s the same mentality to go in there, get the W and just prepare myself to fight for a world title this year,” Hield said.

The Bahamian boxer will have to bring his A-game to next week’s bout. His opponent, who hails from Colombia, has a 24-19-1 (win/loss/draw record) which includes 16 knockouts in 44 bouts.

Despite his short tenure in the professional ranks, Hield has proven his prowess in the ring against his first three opponents.

He earned a technical knockout win against Colombia’s Elkin Bolaño in his professional debut last October. The second victory came in the third round via TKO against a more experienced

CARL HIELD Diomedes Miranda.

Finally, his third straight celebration happened when he executed a TKO in the fourth round to defeat Edinson Jimenez in November.

After consistent and continuous training during the Christmas season

SPORTS CALENDAR TENNIS Inaugural Valentine’s Doubles Classic Open Invite THIS February, during the season of love, Insurance Management and The Gym Tennis Club of Winton invite tennis players in the country to experience the “love of the game” with their inaugural Valentine’s Doubles Classic Tennis Open Invitational.

The tournament will begin on February 10 and tennis players from all around the island will converge at the Gym Tennis Club in Winton to battle it out in a “doubles” only tournament featuring four categories, including: Men’s, Ladies, Over 55, and the always entertaining Mixed Doubles category.

Interested players should e-mail “gtctourbah@gmail.com” to get their registration forms. Insurance Management and the Gym Tennis Club encourages fans and those who want

Jan. 2024

to discover the love of tennis, to come come out, cheer, enjoy and even hit a ball or two.”

NPBA ACTION THE New Providence Basketball Association will continue its regular season action this week: Friday’s schedule at Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium - 7pm - Your Essential Store vs BIBT Grat Whites (DII). 8pm - University of the Bahamas Mingoes vs Zula Media & Symphony (D1) 9pm - Caro Contractors Shockers vs Commonwealth Bank Giants (D1).

Saturday’s schedule at Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium - 7pm - Discount Distributors Rockets vs Mekaddish Millionaires (DII). 8pm - TMT Giants vs Brandon Deli Kings (D1). 9pm - Island Development Rebels vs Discount Liquors Rockets (D1).

SEE PAGE 12

alongside fellow boxer Anai Powell, Hield is locked in.

“Christmas break was a training break. I just had time to see the family and kids but I was in training camp the whole break. Anai Powell and I were getting some good workouts done in Cuba.

I just want to go out and perform the game plan learned in training camp, execute everything and get the win to move on to the next bout,” he said.

The pro boxer is hopeful to fight in his next match on February 17 following the bout against Julio. His goals for the year are to put himself in a position to compete for a world title and also qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

“My mindset is just to focus on trying to get a world title in the professional ranks. If I get sent to the Olympic qualifiers it would be a wish come true but I am just focusing on trying to get a world title right now. If the opportunity comes to try and qualify to represent the country I would and then try to win a medal at the Olympic Games,” the boxer said.

As always, he dedicates his next fight to his mother the late Norma Hield.

A special thanks was offered to Rollin Tyre Imports (Trinidad and Tobago), Jet Wave, J-Tech Windows, SO Management, the Bahamas Boxing Federation and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

GRAND BAHAMIANS SET TO BE HONOURED AT AWARDS BANQUET

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net SOME of the pioneers of softball and baseball in Grand Bahama will be honoured during the Rising Stars Softball’s Pioneers Awards Banquet on Friday, January 26 at Blair House on Magellan Drive, Lucaya.

The event, which will take place starting at 7pm, will seek to keep the memories and the contributions alive from a number of personalities, both still alive and those who would have passed on.

During the night, the Rising Star, in conjunction with the Grand Bahama Baseball Association, will say “thank you” in person to George Weech, Willie Mays Francis, Sanford ‘Sanny’ Culmer, Randy Rolle, Simon Lewis, Melvin Ambrose Gouthro, Dexter

SEE PAGE 13

NPBA PRESIDENT: WE ARE READY FOR 2ND HALF OF SEASON

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net THE second half of the 2023-24 New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) regular season is now in full swing as teams round into form to close out the season strong.

NPBA president Ricardo Smith emphasized that his executive team members are excited about the second segment of this season and also want to utilise it as a learning experience going into the next one.

The NPBA executive team rolled out a 10-point plan which outlined their objectives to be

SEE PAGE 13

RECOGNISING ATHLETE OVERLOAD: BALANCING AMBITION AND WELL-BEING IN the world of sports, ambition and dedication shine as guiding stars for athletes. Their relentless pursuit of excellence often leads to awe-inspiring performances, but it also casts a shadow - a shadow called athlete overload.

This often-underrated phenomenon poses a significant threat to careers and overall well-being.

Drawing from my experiences as a sports medicine practitioner, it’s imperative to shed light on this issue.

The Drive for Perfection: A Blessing and a Curse Athletes and their support systems hold the pursuit of excellence in high regard, and rightfully so. However, the relentless quest for greatness can unwittingly compromise an athlete’s physical and mental health. This drive often results in gruelling training schedules,

DR KENT BAZARD

high-stakes competitions, and an unrelenting desire to attain perfection.

Overtraining Syndrome: The Silent Intruder At the heart of athlete overload lies the

overtraining syndrome (OTS), a subtle but devastating adversary.

OTS isn’t simply a consequence of rigorous training; it’s a complex condition that can silently creep into an athlete’s life. It manifests as a cluster of symptoms, including persistent fatigue, declining performance, mood disturbances, and a weakened immune system.

Athletes caught in this spiral may intensify their training in a desperate bid to regain lost ground, unwittingly exacerbating the issue.

The Vulnerable Young Talents Our young athletes, driven by dreams of greatness, are particularly susceptible to athlete overload. Striking the right balance between nurturing their talent and

SEE PAGE 13

PAGE 12, Friday, January 19, 2024

THE TRIBUNE

Overnight success: Medvedev finishes off 2nd-round match @ 3:39am at Australian Open

By JOHN PYE AP Sports Writer MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — If he wasn’t on the court competing, Daniil Medvedev doubted anything would have kept him at Rod Laver Arena until almost 4 in the morning.

The third-seeded Medvedev lost the first two sets of his second-round Australian Open match against No. 53-ranked Emil Ruusuvuori before coming back to win 3-6, 6-7 (1), 6-4, 7-6 (1), 6-0 in 4 hours, 23 minutes in the latest finish of the week.

They’d walked onto Rod Laver Arena to start hitting at 11:07pm Thursday after women’s No. 3 Elena Rybakina lost the longest tiebreaker ever in a women’s Grand Slam event, 22-20 to Anna Blinkova.

The match ended at 3:39am Friday, and Medvedev was still there signing autographs as the clock ticked closer to 4.

The long tiebreaker and the uncertainty over the starting time, he said, meant his eating and warming up routines were thrown out of kilter.

“When I went on court I was a little exhausted already,” Medvedev, a two-time Australian Open finalist, explained to the scattering of fans still in the arena well after the last trams had finished running for Day 5.

It won’t go down as a classic, but still had plenty of drama.

Medvedev needed a medical timeout for blisters on his right foot after the second set, and he spiked his racket into the court after missing a chance to break Ruusuvuori’s serve late in the fourth.

Then he had trouble tying the laces of his right shoe right before the deciding fifth set.

Looking at the clock, he was frank with the people who’d stayed there until a couple of hours before the sun was due to rise.

“Honestly guys, I would not be here,” Medvedev said in an on-court interview. “Thanks for staying.

If I would be a tennis fan and I would come, at 1 a.m.

I would be like ‘OK, let’s go home. We’re going to catch the end of the match on the TV.’” It was the latest finish so far this year, but not close

DANIIL MEDVEDEV, of Russia, gestures as he is interviewed after defeating Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia.

(AP Photos/Andy Wong) to the tournament record.

Andy Murray finished off Thanasi Kokkinakis just after 4 a.m. last year in a second-round match that lasted 5 hours, 45 minutes.

And that was only good enough for second place on the all-time list. The latestfinishing match in Grand Slam history ended with Lleyton Hewitt beating Marcos Baghdatis at 4:34 a.m. in 2008.

After player complaints last year, Australian Open organisers decided to extend the tournament by adding a 15th day and starting on a Sunday for the first time.

The first round was split over three days, and no matches went past 2 a.m.

But the first day of the second round was entirely different story, with two early men’s matches going to a decisive tiebreaker after five sets and topranked Iga Swiatek’s opener against Danielle Collins going for almost 3 1/4 hours.

And so Day 5 of the Australian Open finished on a Friday, anyway.

Medvedev said he’d have to warm down, get some physiotherapy and try to get to sleep by 6:30am and wake up some time after midday to start preparing for his thirdround match against Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Ruusuvurori, a 24-yearold from Finland who was aiming to reach the third round for the first time at a major, started well.

COCO Gauff plays a forehand return to compatriot Caroline Dolehide during their second round match.

He broke the 2021 U.S. Open champion’s serve in the second game and took the first set in 42 minutes.

It took almost twice that long to take the second set in a tiebreaker for a 2-0 lead.

After a medical timeout, Medvedev started his comeback.

He broke for a 2-1 lead and, after an exchange of breaks, he took the third set in 49 minutes.

He also broke to open the fourth. But Ruusuvurori broke back, converting with a leaping overhead, to get back on serve and had Medvedev screaming toward his support team in the stands.

He held for a 5-4 lead with a couple of forehand passing shots, and Medvedev hurled his racket into the court before he walked to the chairs for the changeover. It earned him a warning from the chair umpire.

At deuce in the next game, Ruusuvuori was two points from winning the match at 2:56 a.m.

But he stepped in to a service return and missed a forehand wide down the line, and then sent a forehand long.

After all that, the end came relatively quickly.

Medvedev took a 4-0 lead in the tiebreaker, seizing momentum.

Blinkova upsets 2023 finalist Rybakina in a wild, record-long tiebreaker

By JOHN PYE AP Sports Writer MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Her hand and her legs were shaking, she’d missed nine match points but also saved six, and Anna Blinkova was 41 points into a wild tiebreaker that was the longest ever in a women’s Grand Slam event.

Elena Rybakina, last year’s Australian Open runner-up, was just as anxious on the other side of the net. When Blinkova lunged to retrieve a backhand, aiming just to keep the rally alive, and Rybakina’s next backhand sailed wide, it finished off a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (20) second-round victory yesterday that she’ll never, ever forget.

“It took me courage,” she said. “It took me some certain calmness to stay in the present moment and to play point by point no matter what happens.”

Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion who was runner-up here last year to Aryna Sabalenka, saved two match points in a third set that contained

six service breaks. Blinkova twice served for the match but couldn’t finish off, and a double-fault in the 12th game sent it to a 10-point tiebreaker. Once there, 13 minutes after her first match points, Blinkova had two more points at 9-7 but again Rybakina saved them, and so it went on.

Blinkova, smiling, later described it as the “endless tiebreaker.” It went on for 32 minutes until Rybakina’s backhand error ended it.

In terms of points — 42 — it was the longest tiebreaker ever in a women’s major. “It was super tough.

I had so many match points,” said Blinkova, who is ranked 57th and had 13 first-round exits in her previous 20 majors. “I tried to be aggressive but my hand was shaking. And my legs, too!

“I tried to be calm, as much as I could.”

It was one that Rybakina will dwell on, too. She knew she wasted chances.

But “I’m really proud that I could fight till the end,” Rybakina said. “I mean, you can’t always play perfect. And of course

ANNA BLINKOVA, of Russia, reacts after winning a point against Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan during their second round match at the Australian Open yesterday.

(AP Photo/Andy Wong) I could have lost it even that, ‘OK, probably I’m earlier.” going to lose, so I don’t care Day 5 started with top- anymore,’” Swiatek said. ranked Iga Swiatek had a “Then it’s easier.” narrow escape when she Collins announced soon rallied from 4-1 down in the after that 2024 would be her third set to beat 2022 run- last season on tour. “Yeah, ner-up Danielle Collins 6-4, I lost 6-4 in the third to one 3-6, 6-4. of the best players in the Swiatek was down two world,” Collins said. “And service breaks in the decid- she played some great ing set before she went on tennis. (I) left it all on the a five-game winning roll to court.” finish off a match that feaSwiatek, a four-time tured wild momentum shifts major winner, next faces and a 25-minute rain delay No. 50-ranked Linda Noskin 3 hours, 14 minutes. “You ova, who beat U.S. qualifier can actually relax a little bit McCartney Kessler 6-3, 1-6, more because you know 6-4.

After an almost eightminute break between the fourth and fifth sets, Medvedev’s experience kicked in and Ruusuvuori’s legs gave out.

The 30-minute deciding set was only prolonged by Ruusuvuori taking a medical timeout for treatment on his sore right shoulder.

“The only two matches I’ve come back from two sets to love down was on this court,” Medvedev said.

Going into the match he was 4-10 in five-setters, including a loss to Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final after he’d taken the first two sets. “This one,” he said, “is going to for sure stay in my memory.”

DJOKOVIC UNDER THE LIGHTS AGAIN ON DAY 6 MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The third round gets underway today at the Australian Open with Novak Djokovic back in action in his bid for a recordextending 25th major title.

Stay up-to-date with a guide that tells you everything you need to know about how to watch the year’s first Grand Slam tennis tournament, what the schedule is, what the betting odds are, and more: WHO IS PLAYING? Novak Djokovic has a third straight night-time assignment at Melbourne Park, where he’s on a 30-match win- DJOKOVIC ning streak. Djokovic is chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title and is coming off a tense fourset win over Alexei Popyrin in the previous round that included an angry exchange with a spectator. He takes on Tomas Martin Etcheverry, who has ousted veterans Andy Murray and Gael Monfils this week. Djokovic kicks off the night session on Rod Laver Arena.

U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff plays fellow American Alycia Parks in the day session on Margaret Court Arena, after Jannik Sinner’s match against Sebastian Baez.

BETTING Favourites FanDuel Sportsbook has Novak Djokovic as a big favourite for his third-round match against Tomas Martin Etcheverry despite his struggles in the first two matches.

Djokovic is a minus-2,000 chance. Etcheverry is listed at plus-1,260. No. 4-seeded Gauff is also minus-2000 for her match against Alycia Parks. A plus figure represents longer odds, in which case you’ll win more for your wager, while a minus figure means you’re betting on a more likely outcome — as deemed by FanDuel.

SINGLES SCHEDULE Melbourne’s time zone is 16 hours ahead of the East Coast of the United States, so when Day 6 begins at 11am local time Friday in Australia, it’ll be 7pm ET Thursday.

Here is the remaining singles schedule in Australia: —Friday-Saturday: Third Round (Women and Men) —Jan. 21-22: Fourth Round (Women and Men) —Jan. 23-24: Quarterfinals (Women and Men) —Jan. 25: Women’s Semifinals —Jan. 26: Men’s Semifinals —Jan. 27: Women’s Final —Jan. 28: Men’s Final

day about what to VANDERPOOL every focus on next. We talk in

FROM PAGE 11

“His competitive college environment is aligned with his goals,” he said.

In critiquing his son’s performances, Brent Vanderpool said they work closely together, so he expects what he’s seen.

“We are in constant communication and I am fully abreast of his expectations, progress and goals,” said Brent, who serves as Brenden’s mental coach. “I also prepare his strength-training workouts. “We talk almost

SPORTS NOTES

FROM PAGE 11 GSSSA ACTION THE Government Secondary Schools Sports Association continues its regular season action this week at both the CI Gibson and DW Davis Gymnasiums.

Here’s a look at the schedule of games: Friday CI Gibson at 4pm CH Reeves vs DW Davis junior girls and boys.

DW Davis Gymnasium at 4pm - CV Bethel vs

terms of what he has to do to be world class. His ultimate goal is to qualify for the 2028 Olympics and vault 19 feet. So we work for the intermediate goals with an eye on the long term goals.”

In the meantime, Brenden Vanderpool has secured an NIL deal with FiberSport USA, a company which provides poles for collegiate pole vaulters.

While he waits for his new shipment to come in, Brenden Vanderpool is hoping to clear at least 17-6 (5.35m) this year.

Anatol Rodgers senior girls and boys.

BAISS ACTION The Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools will continue its basketball regular season this week with the following games on tap: Friday at 4 pm Senior boys - St Augustine’s College at Nassau Christian Academy; Kingsway Academy at St Andrew’s School; Jordan Prince Williams at Bahamas Academy; Charles W Saunders at Aquinas College.

Junior girls - Queen’s College at St John’s College.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 13

STAGE SET FOR 4TH DR BERNARD NOTTAGE 5K FUN RUN/WALK RACE

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net THE stage is all set for the fourth edition of the Bain & Grants Town Dr Bernard Nottage 5K Fun Run/Walk race and Health Expo.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, starting at 6am from the Southern Recreational Grounds. The course will traverse through the Bain & Grants Town community, according to race organiser Sean Bastian.

According to Bastian, competitors will participate in either the walk or the run, which is free of charge.

Trophies will be presented to the first three finishers in each age category and every person who crosses the finish line will collect a medal. Competitors will travel from the Southern Recreation Grounds and head onto Cockburn Street, west onto Blue Hill Road, north to Dillet Street, west

onto Meeting Street onto Nassau Street to West Bay Street, east onto Market Street and south back to the South Recreation Grounds.

As the Member of Parliament for Bain & Grants Town, Wayde Watson said he’s delighted to be able to continue to show the recognition, honour and respect that is due to the late BJ Nottage, not just for the work he did in the community, but also as the former Minister of National Security and a member of the Bahamas Physicians Alliance Association.

“Dr Nottage has helped many people in the constituency of Bain & Grants Town, which I now serve as the MP, and I and the people of this community are eternally grateful,” Watson said.

“Therefore, I feel as though I/we should continue to memorialise him and remember him for his past contributions.”

Watson noted his wife, Portia Nottage, will be on

hand to distribute medals to the first 200 finishers during the run/walk.

In their respect to their fallen leader, Watson noted that the Royal Bahamas Police and Defence Forces, the Bahamas Department of Corrections, Customs and Immigration, have all accepted the invitation and are committed to participating in the event.

However, he said they are still waiting on confirmation from the Physicians Alliances Association.

“I must go on record to say, a number of my parliamentary colleagues have also committed to participating and would be bringing members of their constituency branches to show support to myself and the family of Dr Nottage for his representation in the House of Assembly,” Watson stated.

Watson put out a plea to members of his constituency, especially those whose lives were touched by Dr

Nottage, to come out and show their support for their former MP. “Please come out and say thank you by showing your support for the event in his honour,” he stated.

And from a national perspective, Watson, who has helped to guide the lives of so many young and women through coaching basketball, joined Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis in calling for the violence to cease on our streets.

“We are losing too many of our boys and men on our streets and if this carnage continues, this country will be left devoid of the leadership potential that we so rightfully deserve,” Watson said.

“I encourage the members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and members of the judiciary to stand fast and continue to do what is right and just to ensure that we rid our country of those persons who seek to invoke havoc on our streets.”

Crime, according to Watson, is everyone’s business, but it doesn’t pay and Bain & Grants Town won’t want it in their community as they seek to be law abiding citizens.

“I will discuss with the proper authorities to seek to have a town meeting on crime in Bain & Grants Town to garner feedback from the people and see how best we can work together to arrest crime and would-be offenders where they reside,” he promised.

But in the meantime, Watson asked for persons to mark the date down: Saturday, January 27, the time 6am and the place at the Southern Recreation Grounds to come out and “burn off that ham, turkey and macaroni and cheese, which we so enjoyed during the Christmas season.”

Free health screening for cholesterol, sugar and high blood pressure, will be offered by nurse Colebrooke and her team of

NPBA

FROM PAGE 11 implemented during their first year at the helm. The listing included bringing back the All-Star game with special incentives for players and supporters of the association. According to Smith, preparations are being made to host the All-Star event.

“We are looking forward to a rather exciting 2024 as we prepare ourselves for the playoffs and the second half of the season. We are getting ready for a spectacular All-Star and are now about three and-a-half weeks away. We are trying to confirm some major moves that we want to announce at a later time,” Smith said.

Recently, the NPBA reintroduced the triple header slate with three games played on the same night. The regular season games are currently played between the CI Gibson Gymnasium and the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium for marquee matchups. Despite moving to a makeshift venue due to ongoing repairs at the AF Adderley gymnasium, Smith wants to take it a step further to secure a bigger and better venue for the night league.

“I really want to move away from AF Adderley and CI Gibson Gymnasium.

I really want to be looking at places like Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium and places like Atlantis and Baha Mar to take basketball to a higher level,” the NPBA president said.

The current executive team has served in office for less than a year since being elected in August last summer. They have achieved some of their goals within the first five months of the term but there is certainly room for growth going forward for continued improvement of the NPBA. “The main thing is that this has been a trial and error and learning experience. I think over the summer we are gonna have a lot of time to prepare for the new season. We are gonna have the summer league this year which vice president Sterling Pratt and his team will be responsible for. We are gonna be working throughout the summer to ensure some of the strategies that we wanted to see in the first year come to fruition,” he said.

Smith added that there are plans to get corporate Bahamas more involved and they want to make those connections happen for next season.

He addressed the talent disparity within the league and said a greater focus will be placed on the product.

“We have a long way to go with regards to working on the product and making sure that teams that are not in the top tier are making sure that their guys are working out and putting a programme on the floor that people believe in. We want to work with some of the teams to assess the talent level and also with the coaching staff,” he said.

The NPBA season continues with the Zulu Media & Symphony versus the University of The Bahamas Mingoes at 8pm on Friday at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium. The Commonwealth Bank Giants take on the Caro Contractors Shockers in the following game at 9pm.

NEW York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts after scoring a 3-point basket in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards last night at Madison Square Garden in New York.

(AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

Brunson scores 41 points, Knicks top Wizards 113-109 NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson had 41 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, leading the New York Knicks to a 113-109 victory over the Washington Wizards last night.

Brunson scored 18 of the Knicks’ 21 points during a lengthy stretch of the fourth quarter, helping them push a one-point lead to 105-97 with 1:26 remaining. He finished 14 for 27 from the field and scored at least 30 for the second straight night after missing two games

because of a bruised left calf.

Julius Randle added 21 points for the Knicks, while Donte DiVincenzo and OG Anunoby each had 19. The Knicks improved to 8-2 since Anunoby joined the lineup Jan. 1 after being acquired from Toronto.

The Knicks host the Raptors in the first meeting between the teams since the trade Saturday when RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley return to Madison Square Garden.

Jordan Poole scored 24 points for the Wizards.

THUNDER 134, JAZZ 129 SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Shai GilgeousAlexander scored 31 points, Jalen Williams had 11 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter and Oklahoma City snapped Utah’s six-game winning streak.

Williams, who shot 11 of 14, made four 3-pointers and has scored at least 25 points in three consecutive games. Josh Giddey had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Collin Sexton

scored 31 points and Lauri Markkanen added 26 for the Jazz.

BULLS 116, RAPTORS 110 TORONTO (AP) — Nikola Vucevic had 24 points and 14 rebounds, DeMar DeRozan scored 24 points against his former team and Chicago beat Toronto.

Coby White added 23 points to help Bulls snap a 4-game losing streak in Toronto. Chicago outscored Toronto 74-50 on points in the paint. Scottie Barnes had 31 points.

AWARDS BANQUET

also provides a forum for these players to be seen by international scouts and college coaches for scholarship opportunities in the United States and Canada.

As a result of previous discussions with the late Greg Christie, who was a consultant at that time for Rising Star Softball and Bernard Aranah, a former president of the Grand Bahama Baseball Association, about preserving the history of both sports and recording the history of both sport and to recognise persons who pioneered the sports, Lockhart revealed that the Pioneers Awards Banquet got started in 2015 under the theme, “Preserving History, Honoring Excellence and Connecting Generations.”

“This year we partnered with Baseball and selected persons from various categories namely, player, administrator, officials, sponsor and media to recognise those persons who made valuable contribution to the sport locally and in some cases internationally,” Lockhart said.

“Most of these individuals gave unselfishly of their time, and in most cases finance, all for the love of

the sport and its development on Grand Bahama, they were the ones that made it happen in the 70’s.

We would love to host this event every two years.”

Since 2015 when they hosted the first Pioneers Awards Banquet, Lockhart said they were faced with some setbacks including Covid.

But moving forward, they intend to host the event every two years as the non-profit organisation, whose focus is on developing character, ensuring academic excellence is maintained to play the sport, and subsequently producing sports opportunities, continue to grow since they began their journey in 2013.

“Apart from physical development, our objective is to implant firmly in the athletes the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, and respect for authority.

“We are becoming well known in our programme of teaching life lesson, exposure to high level of competition through travel, and affording them an opportunity to obtain a softball scholarship,” Lockhart revealed.

“To-date we have seen the fruits of our labour with four of our young ladies were successful in being accepted into The University of The Bahamas on a softball scholarship. Prior to that two were able to obtain a softball scholarship in the United States and currently two are on track of doing likewise.

We have a core of young ladies registered on the NCSA platform, (Next College Student Athlete), formerly, National College Scouting Association.”

This platform is managed by former national team putcher Nerissa Lockhart, the vice president for softball and the pitching coach.

Other members of the board are Helena Cooper as secretary; Trudy Wilson as treasurer; Desmond Dean as player agent; Kendra Roberts as assistant safety officer and Nerissa Russell as the marketing/public relations officer. The directors are Heather Bruey Erica Roberts and Dwight Hield and the consultants are Churchill Tener-Knowles, Neko Grant, Eugene Thompson and Bernie Davis .

FROM PAGE 11

Rolle, Barbara Grant, Karen ‘Kay’ Moxey, Leonard ‘Lennu’ Newton and FOCOL. Being honoured posthumously are Waitwell ‘Riggs’ Rigby, David McIntosh, Preston Stuart, Patrice Campbell, Zenobia ‘Nobie’ Cooper, Anna Hall and Cornelius ‘Money’ Williams.

Tickets for the night are priced at $75 per person and interested persons can call any one of these numbers 646-5134, 533-7989 or 727-9862 or email:risingstars_2013@ hotmail.com to make a purchase.

The Rising Star is an organisation, headed by former national team softball player Yvonne Lockhart, who later moved into coaching, to provide opportunities to develop and showcase the talent of the many young talent coming up in softball on the island of Grand Bahama.

The organisation, according to Lockhart,

professionals from the Grant’s Town Community Center.

Interested persons are urged to contact Ms Scavalla, the chairperson of the Bain & Grants Town constituency or the branch office on Blue Hill Road for their registration forms.

Bastian said each year they have seen an influx of participants in the event and this year, they anticipate that the trend will continue.

So he urged persons interested to make sure they show up at the Southern Recreation Grounds on race day next Saturday at 6am.

BAZARD FROM PAGE 11

safeguarding their wellbeing becomes an intricate dance. With the dual pressures of academics and sports, they navigate a precarious path that demands unwavering attention.

Real-Life Testimony: The Journey of Serena Williams To illustrate the significance of athlete overload, let’s delve into the journey of the legendary Serena Williams. Known for her unparalleled dominance in tennis, Serena’s drive for success is matched only by her dedication to the sport.

However, her career hasn’t been without its share of struggles.

In 2017, Serena faced a formidable challenge - a challenging pregnancy and the subsequent birth of her daughter. The physical and emotional toll was immense, but her determination was unwavering. She returned to professional tennis with unparalleled zeal, aiming to regain her championship form.

Yet, the demands of her comeback took a toll on her body and mind. The pressure to excel, coupled with gruelling training and competition schedules, tested her limits. Serena’s journey highlights the vulnerability of even the most accomplished athletes to the perils of athlete overload.

Spotting the Warning Signals It’s crucial for athletes, coaches, and parents to recognise the warning signals of athlete overload.

Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings, frequent injuries, and declining performance are clear indicators. Acknowledging these signs can be a game- changer in averting the descent into overload.

Preventive Measures and Recovery Strategies Preventing athlete overload entails a comprehensive approach. This includes well-structured training plans, adequate rest and recovery, nutrition optimization, stress management, and fostering open communication between athletes, coaches, and parents. Athletes should be encouraged to set achievable goals and prioritize their physical and mental health.

Conclusion: A Balancing Act In conclusion, while ambition and dedication are the driving forces in sports, athlete overload is a genuine concern that warrants attention. Striking the right equilibrium between ambition and well-being is paramount. Athletes should be empowered to chase their dreams without compromising their health, and it falls upon coaches, parents, and sports medicine practitioners to guide them on this journey.

Recognising athlete overload is the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable approach to sports, where excellence harmoniously coexists with well-being.

Within this equilibrium lies the essence of true sportsmanship and the potential for enduring athletic success.

UÊ ÀÊ i ÌÊ >â>À`Ê ÃÊ >Ê Bahamian sports medicine physician, sports performance coach, sports nutrition specialist and founder of Empire Sports Medicine. Our mission is to empower athletes to reach new heights while safeguarding their health and well-being. We understand the unique demands of sports activities, and we are dedicated to helping athletes prevent injuries, overcome challenges, optimise nutrition and performance.

Contact Empire Sports Medicine at: 242-364-2001.

PAGE 14, Friday, January 19, 2024

THE TRIBUNE

Allen, Bills hope home-field edge will help LAMAR JACKSON them avoid another playoff loss to Chiefs AND CJ

By JOHN WAWROW AP Sports Writer ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — As much respect Josh Allen has for friend and occasional offseason golf partner Patrick Mahomes, the Buffalo Bills quarterback still can’t forget when his Kansas City Chiefs rival got the last laugh at his expense.

The two were teammates in a made-for-TV golf event in June 2022 when Mahomes was asked to describe Allen’s biggest fear. Pausing for a moment, Mahomes said, “A coin toss,” causing Allen to smile and lower his head.

The Kansas City quarterback, of course, was referring to the Chiefs’ 42-36 overtime victory in a 2021 season AFC divisional-round game that Bills fans have dubbed “13 Seconds.” That’s the amount of time it took Mahomes to march the Chiefs 44 yards to set up a tying field goal as time expired, after which Kansas City won the coin toss and ended the game with a touchdown on the first overtime possession.

On Sunday night, the Bills (12-6) and Chiefs (12-6) will meet in the

playoffs for the third time in four years and once again in the divisional round, and the past is the last thing on Allen’s mind.

“We don’t need to bring that up,” Allen said Wednesday. “I’m sure people will bring up what I’m afraid of but, nah, I got a lot of respect for him and his game and who he is off the field.”

At least two things have changed since the last BillsChiefs playoff meeting.

The Bills’ loss prompted the NFL to change its postseason overtime rules to ensure both teams get a possession.

After having their 2020 and ‘21 seasons end at Arrowhead Stadium with playoff losses, it’s the Bills’ turn to host the Chiefs in what will be Mahomes’ first playoff road game. It will also mark Mahomes’ first time experiencing the full roar of fans at Highmark Stadium. His only other game at Buffalo was played in an empty stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions in 2020.

“Even though I know it’s going to be hostile and there are going to be people talking trash and everything like that, I’m excited for it because

BILLS quarterback Josh Allen (17) crosses the goal line for a touchdown against the Steelers on Janury 15 in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes) it’s one of the best envi- accustomed to the cold, ronments in football,” while the Chiefs beat visMahomes said. “And you iting Miami last weekend want to do that when you with a game-time temperagrow up watching these ture of minus-4 Fahrenheit games in the best environ- (minus-20 Celsius) and ments and see what it’s wind chills that made it feel 20 degrees colder. like.”

The game carries plenty Although the teams had the same record in the of subplots.

Bills coach Sean McDerregular season, Buffalo won the tiebreaker — and mott’s first NFL job was on the right to host — with its current Chiefs coach Andy 20-17 win at Kansas City Reid’s staff in Philadelphia last month. That was the in 1999. “Smart, tough and first of six straight victo- works hard,” Reid said of ries for the Bills, including McDermott.

And McDermott bears Monday’s wild-card round no grudge for Reid’s decivictory over Pittsburgh.

Snow isn’t in the forecast, sion to fire him as the though cold temperatures Eagles’ defensive coordiare, which shouldn’t affect nator following the 2010 either team. The Bills are season.

“I think it doubled down on my work ethic,” said McDermott, who then spent six years as Carolina’s defensive coordinator before Buffalo hired him in 2017. “In some ways, I’m extremely grateful for it.”

There’s also the familiarity between non-division rivals who have split their past six meetings, including playoffs, since 2020.

“There’s no secrets,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said.

Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver has played at Arrowhead five times over the past four years.

“It’s just like playing a divisional opponent,” Oliver said. “Honestly, I love playing there. But we get them here.”

Wherever the setting, Allen appreciates how difficult it will be to beat the defending Super Bowl champions.

“They’re at the top of the mountain. They know what it takes to get there. We’ve yet to do that,” said Allen, whose lone AFC championship game appearance ended in a 38-24 loss at Kansas City.

“As a competitor, to be in a situation like this is something you dream about.”

Lions host Bucs in divisional round, aiming to win 2 playoff games in season for 1st time since 1957

By LARRY LAGE AP Sports Writer DETROIT (AP) — The Detroit Lions and their fans waited a long time to celebrate as they did last week after beating the Los Angeles Rams in the wildcard round.

Tampa Bay, meanwhile, is used to being part of the party this time of year.

The Lions won their first playoff game in 32 years, taking advantage of hosting a postseason game for the first time in three decades.

Detroit has two home games in the same playoffs for the first time in franchise history, improving its chances to earn two postseason victories in a season for the first time since winning the 1957 NFL title.

The Buccaneers are the only NFC team in the playoffs for a fourth straight year and their win over Philadelphia was their sixth in the postseason during the span, a total that trails only the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs since 2020.

NFC North champion Detroit is determined to move a step closer toward potentially reaching the Super Bowl for the first time with a win Sunday

in the divisional round against NFC South champion Tampa Bay, which won it all for a second time in Super Bowl 55 with Tom Brady at quarterback.

Lions offensive tackle Taylor Decker, in his eighth season with the long-suffering franchise, is simply thankful he stuck around long enough to experience the thrill of the 24-23 win over the Rams.

“That’s one of the beautiful things about sports, is to be able to see things through,” Decker said.

“I’m just proud that I got to be a part of something special.”

THEY’RE BOTH NO. 1 Detroit’s Jared Goff and Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield were No. 1 overall picks two years apart — for other teams — and have had their share of success in the playoffs.

With fans at Ford Field chanting, “Jar-ed Goff!

Jar-ed Goff!” early and often in last week’s win against former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Rams, the eighthyear pro was efficient and effective.

Goff completed his first 10 passes and finished 22 of 27 with 277 yards and a touchdown.

LIONS safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson (2) keeps Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) from catching the ball in the endzone on January 14 in Detroit.

(AP Photo/Duane Burleson) “He’s a really good quar- free and playing carefree. terback — one of the best It’s really helping him, and I’ve seen on film,” Tampa it’s really helping us.”

Lions defensive back Bay cornerback Zyon C.J. Gardner-Johnson took McCollum said.

Mayfield, drafted by a verbal swipe at Mayfield Cleveland in 2018, had per- last week when he praised haps the best season for his Tampa Bay’s receivers, fourth team in three years. saying they would be a He had career highs with great group if they had a 4,044 yards passing and 28 good quarterback.

Mayfield returned some touchdown passes in the regular season and became kind words and added a the first Buccaneers quar- shot. “He’s a good player,” terback to throw for at Mayfield said. “But yeah, least 300 yards and three he’s just got to do a little touchdowns in a postsea- more film study.”

SACK DANCE son game.

Detroit defensive end “He looks like he’s having fun like he was in Aidan Hutchinson has college,” Tampa Bay coach a chance to join a select Todd Bowles said. “He’s list of players with multigoing out there playing ple sacks in four or more

consecutive games, including the playoffs. Simeon Rice had at least two sacks in five straight games while Hall of Famers Reggie White and Kevin Greene pulled off the feat in four consecutive games.

Tampa Bay rookie YaYa Diaby, a third-round pick from Louisville, has 7 1/2 sacks to lead a defense that has seven players with at least four sacks.

UNDERDOG MENTALITY Tampa Bay is a 6 1/2point underdog, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, after dominating the Eagles as a 2 1/2-point underdog.

“It doesn’t surprise us at all,” Bowles said. “We don’t even worry about it anymore. We kind of laugh when we see it.”

THE PREVIOUS MATCHUP Goff threw for 353 yards and two touchdowns to help Detroit win 20-6 at Tampa Bay in Week 6. The Lions played the entire game without rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs and veteran running back David Montgomery was out for two-plus quarters.

Mayfield was 19 of 37 passes for 206 yards with no touchdowns and one interception against the Lions.

STROUD READY FOR REMATCH

By NOAH TRISTER AP Sports Writer BALTIMORE (AP) — When Lamar Jackson and C.J. Stroud faced off in Week 1 back in September, it was not a good representation of how those two would play this season.

Jackson threw an early interception. Each quarterback lost a fumble. Stroud was sacked five times and Jackson four.

“I haven’t lost a lot of games in my career, so that definitely wasn’t fun,” said Stroud, who made his NFL debut that day. “I was really upset about a lot of different things.”

Since then, Stroud has become the undisputed star of the current class of rookie quarterbacks. He’s led the Houston Texans to a division title and a playoff win. Their next challenge is a matchup at Baltimore on Saturday.

Jackson shook off his own pedestrian start to the season, leading the Ravens to the best record in the league and emerging as a favourite to win his second MVP. The winner this weekend advances to the AFC championship game, which would be a milestone of sorts for whoever advances.

Baltimore (13-4) and Houston (11-7) are the two youngest franchises in the league, although their cities had other teams previously.

The Ravens have won two Super Bowls, but Baltimore hasn’t hosted an AFC title game since January of 1971, when the Colts beat the Oakland Raiders.

The Texans have never made it that far. They are 0-4 in the divisional round, including a loss to Baltimore in January of 2012.

The Houston Oilers played in the AFC championship game, but their last appearance was 44 years ago.

When the Ravens beat the Texans 25-9 in Week 1, the biggest story was a season-ending Achilles tendon injury to Baltimore running back J.K. Dobbins. Jackson threw for 169 yards and ran for 38. Stroud passed for 242 yards.

It was the first game for Stroud and new Houston coach DeMeco Ryans — as well as Todd Monken, Baltimore’s new offensive coordinator. All three had bigger and better things in their future.

“We have changed a lot as well,” Jackson said. “Just getting better and better, with our scheme and just being one unit. We added a bunch of new pieces as well on offence. We are definitely getting in synch now.”

PACKERS QB LOVE OFFERS DIFFERENT CHALLENGE FOR 49ERS FROM PAST PLAYOFFS

By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football Writer SANTA CLARA, Calif.

(AP) — The San Francisco 49ers had plenty of success going up against the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs when Aaron Rodgers was running the show.

The Niners knocked Rodgers and the Packers out of the playoffs four times, including twice in the previous four seasons.

While first-year starter Jordan Love lacks the pedigree of the four-time MVP, his performance in the last half of the season has caught the attention of the 49ers (12-5) headed into their divisional round game against the Packers (10-8) on Saturday night.

“He’s really good at going through his reads and playing the offence to a T,” defensive end Nick Bosa said.

After a shaky start to his first season as a starter, Love has been playing at

a high level the past two months. He has thrown 21 touchdown passes with only one interception the past nine games and is coming off one of the best playoff debuts ever.

Love went 16 for 21 for 272 yards, three TDs and no interceptions in a 48-32 win over Dallas on Sunday.

“I thought he played a really, really good football game,” coach Matt LaFleur said.

“It’s never going to be perfect. There’s going to be little details here and there, whether it’s hanging in the pocket, some decisions, but I’ll tell you what, the guy made some massive plays in that game that kind of go off script, so to speak, and to me that’s where you see so much value in him.”

With Love playing as well as he has and a group of young pass-catchers emerging as big threats, the Packers once again look like a top offensive team after taking a step back

PACKERS quarterback Jordan Love looks to pass against the Cowboys on Sunday.

(AP Photo/Sam Hodde) in Rodgers’ last season in Green Bay in 2022.

The Niners see a similar look to those high-powered offences they faced early in LaFleur’s tenure but see more of the coach’s influence on the scheme now that he has a young quarterback he can mold.

“They have a lot of the same guys from the past really good teams they have had and a quarterback

who does exactly what he’s coached to do,” Bosa said.

“Aaron Rodgers is a Hall of Famer and unbelievable, but he kind of went outside of the realm of coaching and sometimes it’s good when you have a guy who does what he’s coached to do.”

CLIMB THE MOUNTAIN After losing in the NFC title game the past two seasons, the 49ers came into 2023 looking to get over that hump and back to the Super Bowl. But first they had to get through the regular season, which they did with 12 wins and a firstround bye.

Now the focus can really turn to getting rid of the bad taste from those season-ending losses.

“We’re excited,” All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams said. “This is what you wait all year for, especially after the way last year ended. The regular season is fun and it has its own

challenges. But when you get that close, like we did last year, you just want to fast forward to the regular season and get back to this tournament.”

SURGING JONES Green Bay’s Aaron Jones has rushed for more than 110 yards in each of his past four games. He ran for 118 yards and three touchdowns in the Packers’ victory over the Cowboys.

It’s worth noting that Jones has rushed for more than 100 yards every time he’s faced the Cowboys in his career. Jones has never rushed for 100 yards in six previous meetings with San Francisco, though he had nine catches for 129 yards as well as 12 carries for 41 yards in the Packers’ 2021 divisional playoff loss to the 49ers.

RECEIVING DEPTH Love has thrown 21 touchdown passes with only one interception over his past nine games, and it seems as if a different

receiver emerges as his favorite target each week.

The Packers have produced a different 100-yard receiver in each of their past three games. Romeo Doubs had six catches for 151 yards against the Cowboys. Jayden Reed didn’t catch a single pass against Dallas, but he had four receptions for 112 yards when the Packers closed the regular season with a 17-9 victory over the Chicago Bears. One week earlier, Bo Melton caught six passes for 105 yards in a 33-10 triumph at Minnesota.

“You never really know who’s going to have the big game for us in the receiver room,” Love said. “You have plays dialed up for some guys, and other times it’s just kind of the looks we get defensively, who might be catching the ball.

But I think the mindset, they all want the ball, they all expect the ball on every play, and that’s what’s helping them be successful.”

PAGE 16, Friday, January 19, 2024 FROM PAGE 20 appeared as if the Government has “abandoned their threat to take over” the GBPA and the assets held through its affiliate, Port Group Ltd, in favour of initiating arbitration action over monies allegedly owed for the provision of public services in Freeport.

However, he told Tribune Business: “My personal feeling is this stance is a ruse, a deception. What this current government wants to do is nationalise, not Bahamianise, Freeport by taking state ownership and control.

“Then they want to put their cronies in place at the Port and give them all the contracts to develop Freeport to the detriment of us Freeporters who have invested our life’s worth in the city. If they succeed it will signal the death of Freeport and The Bahamas by extension.

“They talk about ‘Bahamianising’ the GBPA, but the owners are already Bahamian. The Haywards have been in The Bahamas since

THE TRIBUNE

GOVT ACCUSED OF PORT NATIONALISATION ‘RUSE’ the mid-1950s and the vast majority of all licensees are Bahamian” apart from the likes of the major industrials and other large investors Mr Antoni’s comments hint at the fears some licensees and Port area residents harbour over the Government’s motivations for attacking the GBPA, rather than working to resolve the two sides’ differences and move the city forward constructively, while also seeking the exit of its principals, the Hayward and St George families, by either buying them out itself or finding private investors to do the job.

Mr Mitchell earlier this week said the Government has now “withdrawn” its offer to acquire the GBPA and its affiliated assets, but it is unclear whether it has totally abandoned these ambitions in favour of launching arbitration proceedings to gain a multi-million reimbursement for the Public Treasury.

While some sources suggested the Government has “capitulated”, it is more likely that the arbitration move will be used to exert pressure on the GBPA’s two shareholder families to sell and exit at a potentially lower price than otherwise might have been obtained.

Mr Antoni agreed, saying: “They’re [the Government] trying to lower the price, leverage themselves, so someone can come in and buy out the families. I can’t speak for the families, but I think the St George family wants out but the Hayward family wants to stay.”

Tribune Business revealed in late November 2023 that the Government planned to use its financial claims against the GBPA as leverage to squeeze the families if it was unable to achieve a smooth sale. The Davis administration had invoked sections in the Hawksbill Creek Agreement that stipulate the GBPA must reimburse it if

the cost of providing public services in Freeport exceeds the city’s tax revenues.

This newspaper said then that the dispute may be put into arbitration if the two sides are unable to resolve their differences, with the Government believing that the Hayward and St George families will be unable to pay what is allegedly owed if proceedings go in their favour, thus giving it leverage to potentially force a sale on favourable terms.

Mr Antoni, though, voiced scepticism over the merits of the Government’s compensation claim and challenged it to publicly reveal the details including the total amount purportedly owed by the GBPA. Asserting that he had checked with all previous ministers of finance, he added: “This is the first invoice ever produced by the Government.

“I’ve seen where even the honourable prime minister says they’re putting together

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE

The Public is hereby advised that I, ARAMILDA ANTIONETTE CULMER of P. O. Box N-9927, Nassau Village, New Providence, Bahamas intend to change my name to ANTOINETTE ARAMILDA CULMER. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, The Bahamas no later than Thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

NOTICE is hereby given that MAIRELIS DURAN ECHEVARRIA of Beach Lane 12, Sandyport, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 19th day of January, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL

NOTICE

Hiplatform Worldwide Ltd. Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Registration Number 209661 B (In Voluntary Liquidation)

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the above-named Company is in dissolution, commencing on the 18th day of January A.D. 2024.

NOTICE is hereby given that CHANDELINE CHERISMA of Flamingo Gardens, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of January 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

Articles of Dissolution have been duly registered by the Registrar. The Liquidator is Mr. Marcelo El Cheik Pugliesi, whose address is Rua Nagel, No 12, Apto 151 Vila Leopoldina, CEP: 05315-030, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. Any Persons having a Claim against the above-named Company are required on or before the 17th day of February A.D. 2024 to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator of the Company, or in default thereof they may be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such claim is proved.

Dated this 18th day of January A.D. 2024 Marcelo EL Cheik Pugliesi Liquidator

MARKET REPORT www.bisxbahamas.com

THURSDAY, 18 JANUARY 2024

BISX ALL SHARE INDEX:

CLOSE

CHANGE

%CHANGE

YTD

YTD%

2891.38

0.31

0.01

39.74

1.39

52WK LOW 3.88 40.06 2.55 2.00 2.56 6.93 8.69 4.00 10.21 3.30 8.50 10.65 2.74 10.00 9.16 3.67 17.00 3.65 11.74 15.76

SECURITY AML Foods Limited APD Limited Benchmark Bahamas First Holdings Limited Bank of Bahamas Bahamas Property Fund Bahamas Waste Cable Bahamas Commonwealth Brewery Commonwealth Bank Colina Holdings CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank Consolidated Water BDRs Doctor's Hospital Emera Incorporated Famguard Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) Limited Focol Finco J. S. Johnson

SYMBOL AML APD BBL BFH BOB BPF BWL CAB CBB CBL CHL CIB CWCB DHS EMAB FAM FBB FCL FIN JSJ

LAST CLOSE 5.25 41.19 2.76 2.00 4.25 7.60 10.62 4.19 11.01 5.45 10.20 14.00 6.55 10.50 9.01 4.20 17.75 4.75 12.80 15.82

CLOSE 5.25 41.19 2.76 2.00 4.25 7.60 10.62 4.19 11.01 5.40 10.20 14.00 6.56 10.50 8.93 4.25 17.75 4.89 12.80 15.82

CHANGE 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 (0.05) 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 (0.08) 0.05 0.00 0.14 0.00 0.00

1.00 1.00 10.00 1.00

1.00 1.00 10.00 1.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

LAST SALE 100.00 100.00

CLOSE 100.00 100.00

CHANGE 0.00 0.00

107.31 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 90.10 90.70 100.00 100.12 100.10 96.10 99.87 100.00 100.81 97.15 100.14 100.03 100.23 100.36 100.65

107.31 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 90.10 90.70 100.00 100.12 100.10 96.10 99.87 100.00 100.81 97.15 100.14 100.03 100.23 100.36 100.65

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

VOLUME

60,730

3,000 5,640

EPS$ 0.239 0.932 0.000 0.140 0.070 1.760 0.369 -0.438 0.140 0.184 0.449 0.722 0.102 0.467 0.646 0.728 0.816 0.203 0.939 0.631

DIV$ 0.170 1.260 0.020 0.080 0.000 0.000 0.260 0.000 0.000 0.120 0.220 0.720 0.434 0.060 0.328 0.240 0.540 0.120 0.200 0.610

P/E 22.0 44.2 N/M 14.3 N/M N/M 28.8 -9.6 78.6 29.3 22.7 19.4 64.3 22.5 13.8 5.8 21.8 24.1 13.6 25.1

YIELD 3.24% 3.06% 0.72% 4.00% 0.00% 0.00% 2.45% 0.00% 0.00% 2.22% 2.16% 5.14% 6.62% 0.57% 3.67% 5.65% 3.04% 2.45% 1.56% 3.86%

PREFERENCE SHARES 1.00 1.00 10.00 1.00

1.00 1.00 10.00 1.00

Bahamas First Holdings Preference Colina Holdings Class A Fidelity Bank Bahamas Class A Focol Class B

BFHP CHLA FBBA FCLB

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.00% 6.25% 7.00% 6.50%

CORPORATE DEBT - (percentage pricing) 52WK HI 100.00 100.00

52WK LOW 100.00 100.00

SECURITY Fidelity Bank (Note 22 Series B+) Bahamas First Holdings Limited

SYMBOL FBB22 BFHB

VOLUME

INTEREST Prime + 1.75% 6.25%

MATURITY 19-Oct-2022 30-Sep-2025

6.95% 4.50% 4.50% 6.25% 6.25% 4.50% 6.25% 4.25% 5.59% 5.65% 5.20% 4.65% 4.27% 5.60% 6.40% 4.88% 4.87% 5.40% 4.40% 4.69% 4.56% 4.33% 4.53%

20-Nov-2029 15-Dec-2021 30-Jul-2022 15-Dec-2044 30-Jul-2045 26-Jun-2022 26-Jun-2045 15-Oct-2022 15-Apr-2049 15-Oct-2049 14-Jul-2037 22-Sep-2032 26-Jul-2024 15-Jun-2040 15-Feb-2051 26-Jul-2035 26-Jul-2037 13-Oct-2036 19-Oct-2030 22-Sep-2033 4-May-2026 26-Jul-2028 7-Sep-2025

BAHAMAS GOVERNMENT STOCK - (percentage pricing) 115.92 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 90.10 90.90 95.38 100.56 100.10 96.61 98.80 100.78 100.81 97.34 100.14 100.03 100.23 100.51 100.65

104.79 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 89.42 90.60 94.89 100.12 100.05 96.61 98.80 100.00 100.81 97.34 100.14 100.03 100.23 100.30 100.65

Bahamas Note 6.95 (2029) BGS: 2014-12-7Y BGS: 2015-1-7Y BGS: 2014-12-30Y BGS: 2015-1-30Y BGS: 2015-6-7Y BGS: 2015-6-30Y BGS: 2015-10-7Y BGRS FX BGR129249 BGRS FX BGR132249 BGRS FX BGR117037 BGRS FL BGRS84032 BGRS FL BGRS98024 BGRS FX BGR138240 BGRS FX BGR142251 BGRS FL BGRS81035 07/26/2035 BGRS FL BGRS81037 07/26/2037 BGRS FX BGR112036 10/13/2036 BGRS FL BGRS89030 10/19/2030 BGRS FL BGRS84033 09/22/2033 BGRS FL BGRS77026 05/04/2026 BGRS FL BGRS88028 07/26/2028 BGRS FL BGRS75025 09/07/2025

BAH29 BG0107 BG0207 BG0130 BG0230 BG0307 BG0330 BG0407 BSBGR1292493 BSBGR1322498 BSBGR1170376 BSBGRS840323 BSBGRS980244 BSBGR1380405 BSBGR1420516 BSBGRS810359 BSBGRS810375 BSBGR1120363 BSBGRS890302 BSBGRS840331 BSBGRS770264 BSBGRS880287 BSBGRS750258

MUTUAL FUNDS 52WK HI 2.68 5.13 2.32 196.33 202.32 1.80 2.05 1.91 0.98 10.20 13.51 7.80 16.64 12.84 10.77 16.27 11.22 14.89

52WK LOW 2.11 3.30 1.68 116.70 199.29 1.74 1.84 1.83 0.93 6.41 7.62 5.66 8.65 10.54 9.57 9.88 8.45 11.20

FUND CFAL Bond Fund CFAL Balanced Fund CFAL Money Market Fund CFAL Global Equity Fund CFAL Global Fixed Income Fund Leno Financial Conservative Fund Leno Financial Aggressive Fund Leno Financial Balanced Fund Leno Financial Global Bond Fund RF Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Secured Balanced Fund RF Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Targeted Equity Fund RF Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Prime Income Fund RF Bahamas International Investment Fund Limited - Equities Sub Fund RF Bahamas International Investment Fund Limited - High Yield Income Fund RF Bahamas International Investment Fund Limited - Alternative Strategies Fund Coralisle Bahamas Fund - Class D Coralisle Bahamas Fund - Class E Coralisle Bahamas Fund - Class F

NAV 2.68 5.13 2.32 184.64 202.12 1.80 2.05 1.91 0.96 10.23 13.54 7.82 13.45 12.24 10.69 N/A 9.19 14.10

YTD% 3.25% 4.82% 2.30% 2.50% 1.88% 1.47% 3.58% 1.46% 0.59% 0.48% -0.50% 1.08% 2.47% 1.49% 0.71% N/A 3.00% N/A

12 MTH% 3.96% 6.10% 2.76% 3.92% 1.88% 2.82% 7.12% 2.87% -0.60% 8.25% 13.68% 3.07% -6.88% 0.87% 0.53% N/A 25.60% N/A

MARKET TERMS BISX ALL SHARE INDEX - 19 Dec 02 = 1,000.00 52wk-Hi - Highest closing price in last 52 weeks 52wk-Low - Lowest closing price in last 52 weeks Previous Close - Previous day's weighted price for daily volume Today's Close - Current day's weighted price for daily volume Change - Change in closing price from day to day Daily Vol. - Number of total shares traded today DIV $ - Dividends per share paid in the last 12 months P/E - Closing price divided by the last 12 month earnings

YIELD - last 12 month dividends divided by closing price Bid $ - Buying price of Colina and Fidelity Ask $ - Selling price of Colina and fidelity Last Price - Last traded over-the-counter price Weekly Vol. - Trading volume of the prior week EPS $ - A company's reported earnings per share for the last 12 mths NAV - Net Asset Value N/M - Not Meaningful

TO TRADE CALL: CFAL 242-502-7010 | ROYALFIDELITY 242-356-7764 | CORALISLE 242-502-7525 | LENO 242-396-3225 | BENCHMARK 242-326-7333

to get out of the way and let Freeport develop,” he added.

“They’ve got their fingers in everything. We don’t need a $200m airport; we need a $30m-$40m airport, get preclearance back and have planes coming in and out.

“If what I have been told is true about how Manchester Airport Group has been treated it would the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end.” Manchester Airport Group is the UK-based operator for the consortium that won the bid to redevelop Grand Bahama International Airport, and other sources yesterday questioned how it has been treated by the Government although no details were provided.

However, Mr Antoni hinted at the dilemma facing those who oppose the Government’s attempted GBPA and Freeport takeover by acknowledging that “the management has not performed” at Freeport’s quasi-governmental authority. “We need world-class management and investors in Freeport,” he added.

Many observers believe that, in recent decades, the GBPA has failed to live up to its governance and development responsibilities as mandated by the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, Freeport’s founding treaty, or attract sufficient high-quality investors to grow its economy.

While they believe reform, including a change in ownership, is needed they just do not want the Government involved.

The opposite view, though, is that a privately-run and governed area has no place in a modern Bahamas and is now past its sell-by date.

They believe that the only way for Freeport to enjoy growth similar to the rest of The Bahamas is for it to be reintegrated with the rest of the country by the Government regaining the governance and regulatory authority.

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that MARJORIE DECIUS of Thompson Lane, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of January, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

(242) 323-2330 (242) 323-2320

BISX LISTED & TRADED SECURITIES 52WK HI 6.95 50.00 2.76 2.70 5.74 7.60 10.80 4.70 12.21 5.50 10.25 14.50 6.99 10.60 11.67 4.25 18.25 5.00 12.80 17.33

the invoice. I would urge the Government to come public with those details.” The Cafferata & Co partner also branded Mr Mitchell’s assertion that the Government has been “carrying” Freeport financially for years as “a lot of rubbish”.

Referring to the 9 percent decline in Freeport and Grand Bahama’s economic output, as cited by the Prime Minister in the 2023-2024 Budget debate, Mr Antoni said this was attributable to multiple factors including hurricanes such as Dorian, Matthew, Irma, Frances and Jeanne; the fall-out from the COVID pandemic “and, just as important, the lack of timely government approvals for investment in Freeport”.

“Now, what Mr Mitchell and Mr Davis are doing is striking fear into the heart of Freeport instead of creating avenues to expedite foreign direct investment to the island,” he added.

“What is the strategy with Grand Bahama International Airport, which is under government control? What is the strategy with the Grand Lucayan, which is under government control?

“It’s very easy to say they’re coming, but Christmas is coming, too. Which is coming first? My feeling is that until the Government comes clean with the people, Freeport will not take them seriously. All these announced investment projects are geared towards 2026, and we know what is happening in 2026 [a likely general election].”

Mr Antoni also voiced concern that insufficient Bahamians are equipped with the necessary skills to benefit from projects such as Grand Bahama Shipyard’s $600m investment, suggesting that development will require an expatriate workforce several hundred strong.

“There’s about $1.75bn of investments in the pipeline, but the Government needs

NAV Date 31-Oct-2023 31-Oct-2023 27-Oct-2023 31-Oct-2023 31-Oct-2023 30-Jun-2023 30-Jun-2023 30-Jun-2023 30-Jun-2023 24-Jul-2023 24-Jul-2023 24-Jul-2023 24-Jul-2023 24-Jul-2023 24-Jul-2023 31-Mar-2023 31-Mar-2023 31-Mar-2023

NOTICE is hereby given that ANGELICA MARIA PACHECO ALVAREZ of P.O. Box N-8289 #416 West Bay Street, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of January 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that JULIEN CHARLES, Soldier Road, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of January 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that SAMUEL TALERANT, Carmichael Road, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of January 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 17

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CHIEF: ‘PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING’ BLACKLISTINGS BREACHING BAHAMAS’ HUMAN RIGHTS FROM PAGE 20 Caribbean chief said.

“I think there’s a process that everybody has to go through that requires a very buttoned-up approach with a very thoughtfully crafted plan that we are responsible for executing.

“We have state-of-the-art technology that we’re bringing to this project in terms of the environment, and I think what we’re going to see is the proof is in the pudding.

When we see this product, and we see how incredibly attractive it is to the tourists and the quality of that product, I think, hopefully, everybody will be proud.

“The fact that it’s a 49 percent owned Bahamian product, the fact that everybody working in the Beach Club experience is going to be Bahamian, the fact that all of our management is going to be Bahamian, the entertainment, that

everything is really connected and integrated into the Bahamian culture.”

Mr Bayley added that the Royal Beach Club will help create experiences that resonate with visitors, and that making the Bahamas a “dedicated” stop for the Utopia demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the development of the tourism product.

“As a large cruise line, want to continue to help foster and create experiences that really resonate with our customers. We can do that many different ways.

The Beach Club is one of those ways so I think it’s a wonderfully positive thing,” he said.

“The fact that Utopia of the Seas, the latest Oasis class ship this summer, with an investment of over $2bn, is effectively dedicated to The Bahamas is another testimony to not only our commitment but I believe

that we can really continue to develop the product.”

Mr Bayley said that bookings for the Icon are going well and he has a positive outlook for the year.

He added: “The social media coverage of Icon has been phenomenal and the bookings are great. I was speaking to Mr Cooper earlier and telling him that 2024 is looking great for tourism.

We feel quite positive about the outlook which, as we all know after the pandemic, it’s great to see another great year coming towards us.

“Fifty-five years ago, Nassau was the first port of call for Royal Caribbean and we’ve had a long history together. We very much enjoy that partnership and relationship. And, of course, the Bahamian culture is something that’s incredibly attractive to our guests and our consumers that we bring to the Bahamas.”

Opposition doubles down on ‘fiscal jeopardy’ claim FROM PAGE 20

Government is having now. The October fiscal report puts the Government’s fiscal plans and projections in jeopardy.

“I’ve listened to the explanation by the financial secretary, but I think their projections are in jeopardy. He [Mr Wilson] has the figures, and his response was that in December VAT projections were at a certain amount. We only have data up to October, and based on the October report their projections are in jeopardy.”

Mr Wilson had told Tribune Business the near-$120m deficit for the four months to end-October 2023, equivalent to 91.3 percent of the $131.1m full-year forecast, did not necessarily signal that the Government will blow its fiscal projections given that “peak revenue season” has just started.

Asserting that VAT and import tariff revenues for the six months to December “bode well” for the Government’s tax and fee income between now and April, he added that the half-year performance “should translate into a strong revenue outturn” over the next two-three months.

Pointing out that the cyclical nature of the Government’s revenues makes it impossible to estimate the full-year Budget outcome on just a few months’ data, Mr Wilson told this newspaper that “we’ll know for sure where we stand after March” - a period that includes peak tourism and economic activity; Business Licence fee payments; the bulk of real property taxes; and commercial vehicle licensing month.

However, maintaining his scepticism, Mr Thompson added: “Again, it is a matter of credibility. We’ve said to the public, we’ve said to creditors, we’ve said to investors these are our fiscal numbers and we will meet our targets. It’s a question of credibility.

“We are watching what happens with respect to the economy, and we are saying to the Government they ought to adjust their targets because the projections they made in the Budget are in jeopardy so they must make the necessary adjustments.”

While October’s $61.5m deficit represented a decline on the prior year’s $74.9m by almost 18 per cent, the amount of ‘red ink’ incurred by the Government over the first four months of the 2023-2024 fiscal year increased by 24.4 percent or $23.5m from $96.2m to $119.7m.

Total government spending for October, while increasing at a slower rate than revenue, jumped by 2.5 percent or $7.6m to hit $309.7m. And, for the first four months of 2023-2024, spending overall has risen by 5.5

percent to $1.032bn - a rate that is slightly faster than the revenue increase. Recurrent spending, on fixed costs such as salaries and rents, grew by $43.6m or 4.8 percent to reach $952.4m.

Meanwhile, Mr Thompson also returned to the offensive over the Government’s recently-unveiled $500m loan that is partially guaranteed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) by asserting the Opposition is “now even more concerned” despite Mr Wilson’s explanation.

“The interest and terms of the loan remain confidential although, according to the ministry’s own statement, the transaction is complete,” the east Grand Bahama MP said. “In no universe can a democratic government commit the Bahamian people to half a billion dollars worth of debt without telling us the interest rates, fees, penalties and other terms.

“If the transaction is not complete or terms are not yet known, then why claim that the transaction is finalised in their release?”

Mr Wilson had confirmed that the $500m loan proceeds “cannot be used” to refinance or pay-off old debt such as the $300m foreign currency bond that is due to mature this month.

He added, though, that the 10-year facility will not breach the $131m in net new borrowing approved by Parliament for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. He explained that the proceeds will be used as stated in the release to fund areas such as infrastructure, education and social welfare, and help to smooth out the Government’s cash flows by covering cover valley months when it runs deficits.

The Davis administration will use the months when it runs a surplus to remain within Parliament’s borrowing limits. However, Mr Thompson asked: “Is the Ministry of Finance thus then stating that this $500m facility is in large part simply a short-term facility that will substantially be paid back within the fiscal year during the months where the revenue peaks?

“We do not see anything in the annual borrowing plan that suggests that the Government will be seeking foreign currency short-term credit facilities.

“Haven’t Bahamian dollar Treasury bills and Treasury notes been used to address short-term cash needs in the past? Why wouldn’t the Government make use of those?

“The Opposition continues to demand that the Government release the full term sheet and documented profile of this transaction and confirm for the Bahamian public all the relevant details.”

FROM PAGE 20 other critical areas in the public sector.

Suggesting that sum would amount to $61.931m in 2023’s money, due to the impact of inflation over the intervening 23 years, Mr Pinder said he had previously called for a “cost/ benefit analysis” to be conducted on the impact of financial services blacklistings for The Bahamas as they inflict “extraordinary economic damage” on developing nations.

“I do not see this economic analysis of inequitable, arbitrary and unilateral blacklists on this conference’s agenda. Honestly, I am not surprised,” he added. “Allow me, however, to foreshadow what we are doing in this regard, taking it out of the intellectual debate arena and taking the issue to the United Nations (UN).

“The right to development is an inalienable human right entitling every individual and all peoples to participate in, contribute to and enjoy economic, social, cultural and political development. Central to this right is the full realization of peoples’ self-determination, including sovereignty over their natural wealth and resources. We believe that the blacklist exercise has breached our fundamental right to development.

Mr Pinder said “blacklisting poses multi-faceted challenges to The Bahamas’ ability to fully realise and enjoy the right to development”, including penalties and others costs that “divert funds away from essential areas”. He pegged this impact in 2000 alone, the first time when the country was ‘blacklisted’, at $35m.

That year saw The Bahamas hit by a triple whammy of a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) blacklisting, due to deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and anti-financial crime regime; the OECD’s ‘harmful tax practices’ initiative; and the then-Financial Stability Forum’s further regulatory concerns.

Turning to other impacts, Mr Pinder identified the “high risk profile of the jurisdiction” that is created.

“The risk profile of The Bahamas is increased to high when we are placed on adverse listings,” he added.

“The impact of this on the financial environment results in job losses, reduced financial institutions and

ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder. foreign investment, penalties such as withholding taxes and time-consuming procedures for opening bank accounts, impacting the stability of the financial sector.”

Then there was the effect on The Bahamas’ ability to mitigate the impact of climate change and recover from natural disasters. “As a small island developing state (SIDS), low-lying nation and big ocean country, The Bahamas faces vulnerability to natural disasters,” the Attorney General added.

“Blacklisting hampers access to international finance, for instance, from international insurers for disaster recovery, affecting multiple human rights, including the right to life, adequate housing, water and sanitation, food, health, work, livelihood, and the rights of displaced persons.

“These are just some examples of where our right to development has been affected. We have formed a working group to evaluate the damage done over the years because of blacklist, and look to pursue the issue as a breach of our human rights with the United Nations and possibly with the International Court of Justice (ICJ).”

The ICJ has recently been hearing South Africa’s claim that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians through its attacks on the Gaza strip. Meanwhile, Mr Pinder added: “The United Nations has appointed a special rapporteur on the right to development who plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges.

“We will be engaging with the special rapporteur to assist in the presentation of findings and recommendations to the Human Rights Council.

This mechanism holds governments accountable for the impact of blacklisting on the right to development. We look forward to further

collaboration with our global partners and the United Nations on this matter.

“Countries like The Bahamas make up the vast majority of blacklisted countries, former colonies of European imperialists. Of the 65 jurisdictions greylisted or blacklisted by FATF from 2010 to 2020, none are in the Group of Seven industrialised nations while only two, Argentina and Turkey, are in the Group of 20,” he continued.

“The vast majority hail from the global south, and 28 rank in the bottom half of economic output as measured by GDP. This is further demonstrated during the period, after the Paradise Papers, the EU’s code of conduct group blacklisted 17 countries. Not one European country was listed; they all got a free pass.

“In February 2019, the EU published an updated version of their anti-money laundering/counter terror financing list.

“Again, not a single European country was listed.

In 2022, the EU identified jurisdictions with strategic deficiencies in their antimoney laundering/counter terror financing regimes that pose significant threats to the financial system. Why is not a single EU member country or their most influential trading partners listed?”

Mr Pinder also voiced fears that the EU’s creation of its own anti-money laundering body will “undoubtedly will bring more confusion to the regulatory landscape” by undermining uniformity in global standards and the FATF’s role in setting them.

“I recognise that the current scope is to monitor financial firms in the EU, and not necessarily state obligations.

“This is just the beginning, however.

Given past practices the EU will undoubtedly expand their reach in evaluating other states on compliance with EU standards,” he said.

“I again call on the FATF to be diligent in its advocacy that it is the only globally recognised body to regulate the implementation and enforcement of anti-money laundering regimes in states around the world.

“If not I am sure those like The Bahamas, who will be singled out, will have to again approach the United Nations just as we did for tax matters.”

PAGE 18, Friday, January 19, 2024

THE TRIBUNE

PWC CHIEF: BUSINESS LICENCE AUDITS TO BE ‘INTENSE PROCESS’

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A SENIOR accountant yesterday affirmed the new Business Licence verification will be an “intense process” but both auditors and firms “should be able to” meet the Government’s deadlines.

Prince Rahming, territory manger for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Bahamas, told a press conference to promote next week’s Bahamas Business Outlook conference that the more stringent requirements imposed by the Business License Act 2023 have created much “anxiety” within the private sector.

However, he added that the Department of Inland Revenue’s (DIR) collaboration with the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) has “created a path” where both the Government and business community can meet their objectives.

Companies with annual turnovers exceeding $5m must submit full audited annual financial statements to the Department of Inland Revenue by end-April as a means to verify their turnover

YESTERDAY’S press conference to promote next week’s Bahamas Business Outlook conference. figures and Business Licence fee payments are accurate. While they may be able to obtain an extension until end-June, those who fail to meet that deadline could be hit with fines and other financial penalties.

Those businesses with annual turnovers between $250,000 and $5m will be subjected to a “review” to verify their turnover for Business Licence purposes. Mr Rahming acknowledged the process is “not smooth sailing”, with both accountants and companies

facing “resource constraints and an overall lack of preparation”.

“Therefore there will need to be a whole lot of work around that,” Mr Rahming said of Business Licence audits. “I think that we should be able to do it, but it’s going to be an intense process.

Now to put that into the context of the tourism presentation and the key players in the sector, I would say that the sector also has some concerns.

“But these are very large players, for the most part, who have

already had the audit requirements in place, and so when I look to some of our own clients I think that they will be prepared in order to meet the new legislation.”

Mr Rahming said companies are also concerned they may be hit with “double taxation” should the Government introduce a corporate income tax, which is levied on profits, and also retain the existing Business Licence fee on top-line turnover.

While the Government’s ‘green paper’ stated that the Business Licence fee would either be totally, or mostly, eliminated for Bahamian businesses depending on which option is chosen if this nation goes down the corporate income tax route, the PwC Bahamas chief said the fear of “double taxation” was regularly raised in conversation with his firm’s clients.

“If I can take the conversation slightly further, there is some concern around the level of taxation in the country,” Mr Rahming said, “and with corporate income tax coming on the horizon, this is often the discussion that I have with my clients in the tourism space, in particular, as to

what taxes will be removed [and replaced by] corporate income tax.

“One of them might be Business Licence, because Business Licence taxes the taxpayer at the top line, income taxes at the bottom line, and so what we should try to avoid is double taxation.”

Mr Rahming will be on a panel for the upcoming Bahamas Business Outlook conference that will discuss new opportunities in the tourism industry. He pointed to the Nassau Cruise Port and the need to maximise the economic impact from spending by the thousands of passengers that arrive each week, contrasting this with Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA).

Mr Rahming said: “I know we’ve done a lot at the airport with the redevelopment. I mean, the LPIA is the envy of the region. When I have colleagues come here from across the Caribbean and internationally, they are just amazed by what we have done.

“So are we truly capitalising on those on the visitors and the people that are coming through.”

‘WE’D HAVE ACCEPTED 100-150%’: GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS BOAT FEE HIKES FROM PAGE 20 Operators Association (BEOA) president, told Tribune Business: “I actually went to the Port Department today [yesterday] and they’re saying something different. They are telling me now that that only pertains for private vessels, which is contrary to what Mr Cooper said.”

This, if accurate, would still leave the likes of fishermen, ferries, tour and excursion operators, tug boat owners, salvage vessels and barges exposed to the existing hiked fees as Mr Lisgaris called for urgent clarification of what he described as an “outrageous” breakdown in communication within the Government.

“Mr Cooper specifically said all boats and tour boats. So there is obviously miscommunication there somewhere. There is obviously miscommunication because the minister is saying one thing and the Port Department is saying something else, which is outrageous,” he added.

Mr Lisgaris said he was under the impression that the suspension of the boat registration fees applied to all boat types, and from the smallest to the largest.

Lieutenant Commander Berne Wright, the Port Department’s acting controller, was said “out of country” and returning

today, and the tour operator chief said this will hopefully assist in providing greater clarification.

The NFA’s Mr Carroll, meanwhile, said it was critical that he and other fishermen are informed as swiftly as possible what the new fees will be. There are also questions over how boat owners who have paid the hiked fees will be treated - whether they will be reimbursed the difference to the adjusted fees, or if the Government will allow them to obtain credits against future payments.

“All the fishermen are happy to hear that,” Mr Carroll said of Mr Cooper’s announcement. “We are still wondering what the [new] fees are going to be. We’re waiting to hear that. I don’t think we have a problem with them going up 100 percent, even 150 percent, but what they were trying to do to the fishermen, there was no way that could work.

“Some of the fishermen might be able to afford to pay them, some of them cannot. I don’t know if it would put them out of business, but it would put a hindrance on their business. I think fishermen would have no problem with a 100-150 percent rise.

I don’t think that would be a problem. If I pay $200 now, if I to pay $500 a boat I don’t think that would be

a problem, but to go higher kills us.

“I don’t know who decided to go up on the fees that high. I’m sure that not one of them has a fishing boat or pleasure boat. They should have consulted with the fishermen and private boat owners before they made a decision, but they didn’t consult with nobody.

They didn’t consult the NFA, and we’re the biggest fishing organisation in the country and cover all the islands of The Bahamas.”

Mr Carroll said it would have been sufficient for the Government to only approach a small group of fishermen over its plans, as word would have quickly spread around the industry and groups such as the NFA can then provide feedback.

“You don’t have to listen to us, but at least consult with us if that’s the route you’re taking,” he added.

“The fishermen and all the boat owners I talk to are happy, but they really want to know what they now have to pay.

“At the end of December, I usually get my boat registered for next year. I don’t sit around waiting for nothing. I want to be up to date with my stuff, and want to know the fees so I can go and pay them. They [the Government] should say: ‘Go ahead and pay what you used to pay, and next year they will go up by whatever percentage it goes up’.

“The percentage it went up by did not make sense.

You won’t get more revenue by simply increasing taxes on your citizens. I don’t know how they’re going to do it but they will have to find another way than to tax the fishermen out of business.”

Mr Maillis, in common with Mr Lisgaris, confirmed

he interpreted Mr Cooper’s remarks as meaning that boat registration fees for all vessels - private and commercial - will be cut by an as-yet unspecified amount.

He voiced gratitude that the deputy prime minister had clarified the Government’s position following multiple “rumours” that changes would be made.

“It’s unfortunate we have to be at this point,” Mr Maillis added. “Had consultation taken place properly from the beginning, the Government would be fully aware it did not have the support. If it had properly consulted from the get-go, the Government would have been fully aware and gone into this process with eyes wide open that this would not be well-received and tolerated.”

He said “law-abiding and hard-working fishermen” have had “to take the blow and sacrifice” since July last year by paying the hiked registration fees given that they had little choice if they wanted to remain on the ocean. Many now asking whether the Government will offer vouchers or credits to those who have already paid, with Mr Maillis describing the latter as an “equitable solution”.

The NFA secretary, though, said the pain could have been further eased if the Government had responded more quickly to the maritime industry’s cries in the Budget’s aftermath. “We had been informed by a Cabinet minister and other officials that a review of the regulations would be coming promptly,” Mr Maillis said.

“They were aware of the problems it was causing and said they would make swift changes, but that did not manifest until five to six months later.”

However, he added that

the most important issue now is to quickly rectify the situation and move the maritime industry forward, while arguing that the situation showed the need to create the National Fisheries Stakeholder Forum as called for under the Fisheries Act 2020.

That would serve as a body through which industry consultation on issues such as boat registration fee increases could take place. “The current fee system that was enacted is unsustainable, unjust and needs to be swiftly parked,” Mr Maillis said, telling Tribune Business it would be “utterly devastating” to fishermen and spark “conflict” between the Government and boaters if left in place.

Mr Cooper, in his Wednesday interview, acknowledged that the boat registration fee increases have caused “much concern” especially with small boat owners. He said: “This has become problematic.

We have listened to the people and Cabinet has determined to suspend the new fees.

“This has caused much concern with small boat owners, Family Islanders who use their boats for their very way of life, and for transportation - for fishing or tours.”

The Boat Registration (Yacht) Amendment Rules 2023, which contain the increases, will have to go back to Parliament after being “revisited” by the Ministry of Transport and Energy.

Mr Cooper added: “We will come back after some public consultation on the issue, and there will be a formal notification by my colleague, minister for transport (JoBeth ColebyDavis) in due course.

“It is not the intention of

the Government to penalise boat owners in any way.

This has been a revenue measure by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, and I’m happy to say that my colleagues have seen the wisdom in revisiting it and therefore we are suspending these fees for now.”

Mr Maillis, who earlier this week revealed that fishermen were planning to protest outside Parliament, said: “We don’t want that.

We are a peaceful country, respect the rule of law and want proper procedure to be followed. We at the NFA have no animosity.

We want what’s best for the industry and the country.

We come with open minds, open hearts and want to participate in the process.

“We want genuine consultation, not lip service consultation, and a government that respects and has the interests of its people at heart. We don’t want to be law breakers. We are honest, hard-working, lawabiding citizens and hate to be put in such a position.

“We can’t return to a fee structure even close to this one.

“Like Mr Carroll said, we would have been accepting of a 100 percent increase in fees but to jump to what it did was simply unacceptable.”

Kwasi Thompson, the east Grand Bahama and Opposition MP, said of the Government’s move: “These fees were implemented without consultation, ignoring the human impact on small fishermen and on the cost of doing business, and thus retail prices of marine products sold to the average Bahamian kitchen table.

This is homegrown, selfinflicted inflation.”

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, January 19, 2024, PAGE 19

A19BUSINESS

targets LA Attaining sustainability does Nassau/PI with support for airlift not need to break the bank 3. Let everyone contribute to the sustainable journey We all have a part to play in the strategy and decision-making.

Your strategy should be a living thing that is constantly improving. It sounds so simple, but an employee survey is a very successful tool to glean great ideas.

And new initiatives are so much easier to roll out if there is a communal sense of ownership. Make every single employee a green champion; not just the senior ones.

Sustainability and resilience are the watchwords for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in 2024.

Doing business better means finding sustainable solutions to everything we call enterprise.

Research is now informing us that sustainable practices do not need to break the bank, but rather save a business tremendous amounts of money over the long-term.

This week, we focus attention on small businesses wanting to take the sustainable route: 1. Devise a sustainable strategy Perhaps the most effective and simple thing an MSME can do is create a sustainability strategy with achievable milestones, measurable targets and a policy statement to go with it.

The policy statement should describe your sustainability strategy and goals.

Make sure it is relevant, available and fully understood. Your strategy should also be integral to the overall business strategy and NOT a separate item. All too often it is.

finance team know how to conduct environmental and social cost accounting, which is increasingly a requirement for investors and funders.. They may need to up-skill or bring in new expertise.

5. Make sustainability fun and exciting Find ways to lighten the sometimes complex messaging of climate change.

Perhaps undertake projects such as building a forest in your workplace’s backyard.

Forests do not have to be far-flung nature reserves, isolated from human life.

We can grow them right where we are; even in cities.

Even more micro than that is a day out planting trees.

An organised day out in your local forest planting trees is a super educational experience.

4. Work the sustainable plan together When everyone understands the overarching corporate targets, then each team member can collaborate to create new individual and collective objectives to help the firm reach its goals. New climate skills and behaviours must be role-specific to create sustainable decision-making at every level.

Task each team with reviewing their operation.

For example, does your procurement team consider the environmental impact of their buying decisions?

They may need to create a new vendor impact assessment template. Does your

2. Train to your sustainable strategy Up-skill every employee.

Climate training is the way to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every role in your company. Everyone is coming at this from a different starting point, but we all need to understand the risks and opportunities this issue is posing for your business, your staff’s livelihoods, and the impact your industry is having. Training makes sure everyone understands issues such as carbon footprints, supply chain emissions, energy efficiency, a sustainable supply chain and all other matters embraced by this topic.

THE Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB) has thrown its full marketing support behind the launch of direct air service from Los Angeles by fully branding Westfield Century City on January 9.

The Board, in a statement, said the upscale shopping centre’s atrium was transformed into a tropical beach destination, complete with brightly-coloured cabanas and a realistic depiction of The Bahamas’ turquoise waters and white sand beaches.

It added that the promotion aimed to heighten awareness of Nassau & Paradise Island and encourage travellers from the Los Angeles area to experience award-winning resorts, authentic Bahamian cooking, mixologist demonstrations, Junkanoo and local art. The US West Coast mission was led by Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board chief executive, Joy Jibrilu, who said: “Nassau and Paradise Island are seeing strong visitation from Los Angeles as it offers the perfect getaway for those on the West Coast craving a tropical vacation with pristine beaches, warm clear waters, world class resorts and unmatched Bahamian hospitality.

“And now we are thrilled that it is easier than ever to get to Nassau from the West Coast with new non-stop flight options from JetBlue and Alaska Airlines that make a tropical getaway an attainable reality.”

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THE WEATHER REPORT

5-DAY FORECAST

ORLANDO

High: 75° F/24° C Low: 45° F/7° C

TAMPA

TODAY

TONIGHT

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

UV INDEX TODAY

Times of clouds and sun

Mostly cloudy, showers around late

Showers around; windy in the p.m.

Cloudy, windy and less humid

Windy with low clouds

Windy with some brightening

The higher the AccuWeather UV IndexTM number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection.

High: 81°

Low: 70°

High: 77° Low: 64°

High: 70° Low: 65°

High: 73° Low: 69°

High: 79° Low: 70°

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

89° F

70° F

77°-62° F

68°-60° F

71°-64° F

79°-68° F

High: 72° F/22° C Low: 44° F/7° C

E

W

ABACO

S

N

High: 75° F/24° C Low: 67° F/19° C

7-14 knots

S

WEST PALM BEACH High: 77° F/25° C Low: 60° F/16° C

7-14 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE

FREEPORT

High: 80° F/27° C Low: 62° F/17° C

E

W S

E

W

High: 78° F/26° C Low: 67° F/19° C

MIAMI

High: 81° F/27° C Low: 61° F/16° C

4-8 knots

High

Ht.(ft.)

2:15 a.m.

2:27 p.m.

2.7 2.1

8:42 a.m. 0.2 8:43 p.m. -0.3

ALMANAC

Saturday

3:18 a.m.

3:31 p.m.

2.7 2.0

9:49 a.m. 0.2 9:42 p.m. -0.2

Statistics are for Nassau through 1 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 82° F/28° C Low .................................................... 72° F/22° C Normal high ....................................... 77° F/25° C Normal low ........................................ 65° F/18° C Last year’s high .................................. 81° F/27° C Last year’s low ................................... 58° F/15° C Precipitation As of 1 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.44” Year to date .................................................. 0.62” Normal year to date ..................................... 0.80”

Sunday

4:18 a.m.

4:33 p.m.

2.7 1.9

10:52 a.m. 0.2 10:39 p.m. -0.2

Monday

5:14 a.m.

5:29 p.m.

2.8 2.0

11:48 a.m. 0.1 11:33 p.m. -0.2

Tuesday

6:04 a.m.

6:19 p.m.

2.8 2.0

12:37 p.m. 0.0 ---------

Wednesday 6:50 a.m.

7:05 p.m.

2.8 2.1

12:21 a.m. -0.2 1:21 p.m. 0.0

Thursday

2.8 2.1

1:06 a.m. -0.2 2:00 p.m. 0.0

KEY WEST

High: 78° F/26° C Low: 68° F/20° C

ELEUTHERA

NASSAU

High: 81° F/27° C Low: 70° F/21° C

7:31 a.m.

7:47 p.m.

Low

Ht.(ft.)

SUN AND MOON Sunrise Sunset

6:56 a.m. Moonrise 5:45 p.m. Moonset

12:40 p.m.

1:29 a.m.

Full

Last

New

First

Jan. 25

Feb. 2

Feb. 9

Feb. 16

CAT ISLAND

E

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 73° F/23° C

N

S

E

W

4-8 knots

S

4-8 knots Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2024

High: 79° F/26° C Low: 74° F/23° C

N W

TIDES FOR NASSAU Today

The exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature® is an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body—everything that affects how warm or cold a person feels. Temperatures reflect the high and the low for the day.

N

N

The new non-stop flights are a response to visitor demand for Nassau and Paradise Island on the US West Coast. In 2023, Los Angeles was one of the top five markets driving visitation to the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board’s website, with Seattle also in the top ten and San Francisco among the top 20 for the first time in history.

Destination storyteller Anastarcia “Star” Palacious hosted the Westfield Century City event, while attendees enjoyed mixology demonstrations from Atlantis Paradise Island mixologist Marv Cunningham; recipes from Four Seasons-branded Ocean Club’s executive chef Jamal Small; “partici-painting” in a live mural with artist Jamaal Rolle; and Junkanoo from The Valley Boys.

Participating resorts included Sandals Royal Bahamian, Baha Mar, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, The Ocean Club, Atlantis, The Cove, and Margaritaville Beach Resort.

Following the day in Los Angeles, the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board and its resort partners flew to Seattle to host a luncheon at The Four Seasons on January 11, where Mrs Jibrilu presented destination updates to local media.

ANDROS

SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 72° F/22° C

High: 80° F/27° C Low: 74° F/23° C

N

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 73° F/23° C

E

W S

LONG ISLAND

TRACKING MAP

High: 81° F/27° C Low: 76° F/24° C

6-12 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 84° F/29° C Low: 73° F/23° C

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 81° F/27° C Low: 76° F/24° C

High: 81° F/27° C Low: 75° F/24° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 84° F/29° C Low: 72° F/22° C

N

E

W

E

W

N

S

S

6-12 knots

6-12 knots

MARINE FORECAST ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday:

WINDS SW at 7-14 Knots N at 10-20 Knots S at 4-8 Knots N at 8-16 Knots SSE at 6-12 Knots WNW at 6-12 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots N at 4-8 Knots S at 6-12 Knots NW at 7-14 Knots SW at 7-14 Knots N at 10-20 Knots S at 4-8 Knots NW at 6-12 Knots SE at 6-12 Knots NW at 4-8 Knots SE at 6-12 Knots NW at 4-8 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots WNW at 4-8 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots N at 8-16 Knots SE at 6-12 Knots NNW at 6-12 Knots S at 6-12 Knots NW at 6-12 Knots

WAVES 2-4 Feet 4-8 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-2 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-2 Feet 3-5 Feet 0-1 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 4-7 Feet 3-5 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 0-1 Feet

VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 75° F 75° F 77° F 75° F 78° F 78° F 79° F 79° F 78° F 78° F 73° F 74° F 78° F 79° F 79° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 79° F 79° F 77° F 77° F 79° F 80° F 78° F 78° F

business@tribunemedia.net

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

$5.30

$5.31

$5.30

Govt accused of Port nationalisation ‘ruse’ * Attorney says GBPA, licensees already ‘Bahamianised’ * Says PM and Mitchell ‘striking fear into Freeport’s heart’ * Calls on Gov’t to ‘come public’ with amount GBPA owes

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net A PROMINENT Freeport attorney yesterday accused the Government of employing “a ruse” and “deception” by seeking to “nationalise” the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) under the guise of Bahamianisation.

Kirk Antoni, the Cafferata & Company partner, emphasising to Tribune Business that these were his personal views, argued the Prime Minister and

Fred Mitchell, minister of foreign affairs, are “striking fear into the heart of Freeport” by threatening to launch arbitration proceedings against its quasi-governmental authority over monies allegedly owed to the Government.

And, while Mr Mitchell described one of the Government’s goals as being to “fully Bahamianise the city”, he suggested this was merely cover for the state to take “ownership and control” of Freeport given that the majority of the

PRIME Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell.

GBPA’s 3,000-3,500 licensees - as well as its current owners - are Bahamians.

Mr Antoni, who is among those leading efforts to organise the licensees in a bid to safeguard their rights amid the Government’s battle with the GBPA, told this newspaper that should the former succeed it would likely “put their cronies in

place at the Port and give them all the contracts” at the expense of existing Freeport businesses and residents - a move he suggested would “signal the death” of the city.

Describing himself as a “61-year resident who has his life’s worth invested in the city”, he said it SEE PAGE 16

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CHIEF: ‘PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING’

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net ROYAL Caribbean’s top executive yesterday revealed the increase in total passengers it will bring to The Bahamas in 2024 to 4.4m is a key factor driving its Paradise Island beach club project.

Michael Bayley, the cruise line’s president and chief executive, speaking on board the cruise line’s largest $2bn vessel to-date, Icon of the Seas, said another ship will by itself start bringing more than 15,000 visitors per week to Nassau this summer.

He added that ever-increasing passenger volume made it important for Royal Caribbean to provide them with new attractions and experiences, hence the development of its $110m Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island.

“I believe in 2024 the number of

ROYAL Caribbean International’s newest luxury cruise ship, Icon of the Seas.

PHOTO: Ronnie Archer/DPA tourists we will bring to The Bahamas will be close to 4.4 million. This ship, Icon of the Seas, will be visiting Coco Cay once a week and be on one-week itineraries,” Mr Bayley said.

“In the summer we introduced the latest Oasis class ship, which will be coming to both Coco Cay and Nassau.

Starting I think some time in mid-July,

BLACKLISTINGS BREACHING BAHAMAS’ HUMAN RIGHTS

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamas plans to potentially approach the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with the argument that multiple blacklistings have breached its citizens’ human rights, it was revealed yesterday.

Ryan Pinder KC, the attorney general, in giving the opening address at the Central Bank’s fifth antimoney laundering research conference, disclosed that the Government has formed a “working group” to determine the economic

damage that The Bahamas has suffered from the attacks on its financial services industry over the past two decades.

Arguing that “arbitrary” initiatives by the likes of the European Union (EU) and Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) have undermined this nation’s “right to development”, he added the first set of ‘blacklistings’ in 2000 were estimated to have then cost The Bahamas a combined $35m in penalties and monies diverted away from SEE PAGE 17

OPPOSITION DOUBLES DOWN ON ‘FISCAL JEOPARDY’ CLAIM

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday doubled down on assertions that “the Government’s fiscal projections are in jeopardy” and need to be adjusted in next month’s mid-year Budget.

Kwasi Thompson, former minister of state for finance in the Minnis administration, told Tribune Business it was vital that the Government maintain “credibility” with creditors, investors and the voting public as he voiced doubts it will hit its 2023-2024 full-year Budget targets based on the first four months’ performance.

Simon Wilson, the Ministry of Finance’s financial secretary, sought to calm any concerns on Thursday by asserting that he has “no reason to panic yet” over the early 20232024 fiscal deficit given that VAT revenues for December exceeded the prior year by 16-17 percent.

However, Mr Thompson said he was far from reassured. “I don’t believe anybody is convinced,” he told this newspaper. “We have commented on the challenges the SEE PAGE 17

we’ll be bringing over 15,000 people a week to Nassau on that one ship alone.

“So we continue to increase the number of tourists we bring. This is why, for us, it was so important to move forward with the Royal Beach Club. It’s one more attraction that we think is going to be meaningful for our guests.”

Mr Bayley maintained that the “proof is in the pudding”, and that the Royal Beach Club will be positive for Bahamian entrepreneurs, jobs and overall economic impact. The project will ultimately be 49 percent Bahamian-owned between the Government and local investors, and will be managed and operated by Bahamian vendors.

“I’m not really going to comment on the naysayers,” the Royal SEE PAGE 17

$5.30

‘WE’D HAVE ACCEPTED 100-150%’: GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS BOAT FEE HIKES

By NEIL HARTNELL and YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporters BAHAMIAN fishermen yesterday said they would “have no problem” paying 100-150 percent boat registration fee increases as they hailed the decision to suspend the “utterly devastating” four-digit hikes.

Keith Carroll, the National Fisheries Association’s (NFA) president, told Tribune Business the industry would likely have accepted first-time and renewal fees doubling but added that increasing them by 1,000 percent or more “couldn’t work” and amounted to “taxing Bahamian fishermen out of business”.

And Paul Maillis, the NFA’s secretary, in slamming the boat registration fee schedule introduced with the 2023-2024 Budget as “unjust”, said much angst could have been avoided if the Government had both consulted the maritime industry before imposing the increases and acted more swiftly to adjust them rather than waiting a further six months in the face of growing opposition.

The duo spoke out after Chester Cooper, in his capacity as acting prime minister, announced via a ZNS TV interview that the Davis administration’s Cabinet has elected to suspend the ten-fold and greater hikes that have sparked maritime industry anxiety and protests.

He promised that the current boat registration fee schedule will be reviewed, and industry consultation undertaken, and hinted that the changes could be unveiled with the mid-year Budget that is due to be

* But confusion over whether it applies to all vessels * Four-digit rises ‘taxing fishermen out of business’ * Increases likely adjusted with mid-year Budget

ACTING Prime Minister Chester Cooper. presented by the last week in February. Revenue enhancements will likely occur elsewhere so that the Government makes up any shortfalls caused by lowering boat registration fees.

However, Bahamian excursion operators yesterday revealed that critical agencies do not appear to be on the same page as Mr Cooper. They said that while the deputy prime minister’s comments seemed to imply that fees will be slashed for all vessel types, the Port Department had informed them the reduced fees will only apply to private and recreational vessels - not commercial craft.

Adoni Lisgaris, the Bahamas Excursion SEE PAGE 18