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VOLUME:114 No.103, APRIL 20TH, 2017

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OBITS OFFICIA

INSIDE

CLASSIFIED TRADER: CARS, CARS, CARS & TECH

Fitzgerald sought millions from Baha Mar SEE LEAKED EMAILS INSIDE

Minister’s repeated requests for contracts and deals exposed

ther’s medical treatment.

The emails were obtained

by The Tribune following a story in December highlighting the breach of CCA servers by a San Francisco hacker. China Construction eventually paid 24 bitcoins (the equivalent of $24,000) to have access to their servers restored; however, it appears that emails forwarded to, or relating to personnel at CCA were compromised, despite top officials at Baha Mar saying they were not concerned by the hack at the time.

In an email dated May 18, 2013, sent to Mr Izmirlian

by Mr Fitzgerald, with Quentin Porter, Shelly Curtis and Alarice Fill copied, Mr Fitzgerald indicates his readiness to start brokerage and trucking services for the Baha Mar project and remain the brokers of record for the property.

L SOUR CE

FIREFIGHTERS TACKLE MAJOR NEW BLAZE AT LANDFILL

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net FIREFIGHTERS yesterday battled a large blaze at the New Providence Landfill, nearly three weeks after tackling a massive fire at the city dump that burned for nearly a month.

Officer in Charge of Fire Services, Chief Superintendent Walter Evans said the current fire is “not connected” in any way to the previous blaze and at this time officials do not know what caused the fire. However Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett told reporters at the site that he suspected “sabotage” in relation to the fire. He said he “instructed” the team of firefighters to have the blaze extinguished “before nomination day” today and certainly before Baha Mar’s opening on Friday.

The blaze started shortly after 3am Wednesday and Chief Supt Evans said officers expect to battle the fire for at least another day but he said the wind is a “huge” factor.

SEE PAGE SIX

ROBERTS: PEET A ‘POLITICAL ENEMY’ FOR ANDROS BID

A TRIBUNE SPECIAL INVESTIGATION EMAILS leaked from a data breach of China Construction America’s (CCA) servers show that from as early as 2013, Jerome Fitzgerald was seeking to secure millions of dollars in brokerage, trucking, and limousine contracts at Baha Mar while he sat in Cabinet as the Minister of Education, Science and Technology, The Tribune has learned.

The emails contradict the Minister, who this week denied ever using his office to direct contracts to himself or his family from the multi-billion dollar resort.

Mr Fitzgerald - the Progressive Liberal Party MP for Marathon - appears also to be requesting $20,000 a month from Baha Mar’s original developer Sarkis Izmirlian, citing the expenses that were necessary to cover the cost of his fa-

$1

ONE of the leaked emails showing a request from Minister of Education, Science and Technology Jerome Fitzgerald.

Mr Fitzgerald writes, “I am aware that interior materials have began to arrive for the hotel. I would really appreciate it if we could be appointed your official broker for June 1st 2013.”

He then makes a request of Mr Izmirlian for limousine services at Baha Mar, as he touted the level of

clientele with which his limousine company was familiar.

“Also with regard the limousine business we are ready to meet with your people anytime,” he writes.

“As indicated we really only cater to highend customers and are the official

agent for Limolink in The Bahamas. You are encouraged to get a reference from the president of Viacom if you wish. Please feel free to contact me personally or have your agents contact Mr Porter our Managing Director directly.”

SEE PAGES TWO & THREE

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Bradley Roberts lashed out at his former party colleague Vincent Peet last night, accusing the former North Andros and Berry Islands MP of being a “political enemy” who mounted an independent campaign because he was denied a nomination from the governing party.

Speaking to PLP supporters at a rally in North Andros last night, Mr Roberts said “this is war” as he urged the crowd to vote for incumbent Dr Perry Gomez, adding that a vote for Mr Peet is a vote for the Free National Movement.

SEE PAGE SIX

MARSH HARBOUR HEALTH CENTRE OPENS AT LAST

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

RASPBERRY ICED TEA

GOVERNMENT officials commissioned the Marsh Harbour Healthcare Centre in Abaco yesterday, touting it as a longawaited boost to the island and the Christie administration’s National Health Insurance plans.

Like the Child and Adolescent and Robert Smith (CARS) Complex that was commissioned last year, the

Marsh Harbour Healthcare Centre has a tortured history, one of missed deadlines and claims of shoddy workmanship, all without any clear accountability.

The facility’s original contractor went bankrupt.

Construction of the healthcare centre began under the former Ingraham administration.

When the Christie administration came to power, it spent $1m renovating the SEE PAGE SIX

PRIME Minister Perry Christie tours the new health centre in Abaco yesterday.

Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff

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PAGE 2, Thursday, April 20, 2017

MINISTER of Education, Science and Technology Jerome Fitzgerald.

THE TRIBUNE

Fitzgerald sought from page one

Limolink, according to its website, is a high-end ground transportation ser-

vice, that focuses on “maintaining a professional network of chauffeurs and late model luxury vehicles”.

The email exchanges show the Minister becoming in-

creasingly distressed as his hamas Cargo and Logistics requests go unfulfilled, with Limited (“BCL”) where all a plea in January, 2014, ask- ports of entry can be advised ing Mr Izmirlian and Baha that BCL is to collect the Mar’s Senior Vice Presi- paperwork and clear shipdent of Government Af- ments for Baha Mar. It is my fairs, Robert ‘Sandy’ Sands, hope that the relationship to cement will continue a relation- ‘As far as I’m when the hotel ship between opens and we China State concerned, I will again be Construction have no interest the broker and and Bahamas whatsoever in, no trucker for this Cargo and property as Logistics Lim- dealing with Baha we were for so ited (BCL) in Mar, none, zero.’ many years.” which all ports - Jerome Fitzgerald, ‘Cost and of entry would be advised that April 18, 2017 ability’ BCL is to colMr Izmirlian lect the paperwork and clear forwarded the email from shipments for the resort.

Mr Fitzgerald to Mr Sands BCL is owned by the indicating that the procureFitzgerald family. ment department at Baha Mr Fitzgerald writes, Mar should be made aware “Unfortunately despite all of BCL’s capabilities. Howefforts by you and promises ever, he warned that the busito me by Daniel Liu (CCA’s ness would have to be won on vice president) that we “cost and ability”. would receive the brokerage Mr Izmirlian’s stance that and trucking work, we have these contracts should be not apart from a one time awarded on merit could have deal to move 40 containers. contributed to the GovernI do not know why, I am ment removing him as the disappointed but I have ac- developer of Baha Mar. cepted it and moved on.

On Tuesday, Mr Fitzger“I Sarkis know that the inte- ald responded to allegaFrom: Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com> Date: July 7, 2013 at 5:20:52 AM EDT rior Furniture and Fittings tions of abuse of power and To: Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> should begin arriving short- conflict of interest in The Subject: Re: brokerage and trucking ly and I would really wish to Punch, replying to quesJerome now establish a relationship tions as to whether any I am glad your father is doing better. I will follow up on the other matter as you should have between Baha Mar and Ba- members of his family held heard by now. All the best.

From: Sarkis Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com> Date: July 7, 2013 at 5:20:52 AM EDT To: Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> Regards, Subject: Re: brokerage and trucking SDI

LEAKED EMAIL FROM JULY 7, 2013

Jerome

This email contains proprietary information some or all of which may be legally privileged. It is

Ifor am your father is doing better.

I will follow on the other matter as you should have theglad intended recipient only. If an addressing or up transmission error has misdirected this email, heard now. the best. please by notify theAllauthor by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.

Regards,

SDI

On Jul 7, 2013, at 10:50 AM, "Jerome Fitzgerald" <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> This email contains proprietary information some or all of which may be legallywrote: privileged. It is for the intended recipient only. If an addressing or transmission error has misdirected this em Dear Sarkis please notify the author by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you mus not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

I pray you and your family are well. Just a note to say 2 things. Firstly my dad is now back home from hospital in Florida and doing well. He still requires 24 hr care by trained nurses which is costing 15k per month and meds another 5k. Secondly, I really need to know when we can Please consider the for environment before e-mail. expect to begin work the brokerage andprinting truckingthis of the furniture fixture and fittings. Also if the other hotel brands are doing their own hotels then I would like their contact person and number and a recommendation from you.

On Jul all 7, of 2013, at 10:50 AM,to"Jerome <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> I know this should begin happen Fitzgerald" soon and I am a little concerned that we have wrote: not heard anything yet. Sarkis this is one of those matters which will require your personal

Dear Sarkis I will be eternally grateful. intervention.

IJF. pray you and your family are well. Just a note to say 2 things. Firstly my dad is now back hom from hospital in Florida and doing well. He still requires 24 hr care by trained nurses which is costing 15k per month and meds another 5k. Secondly, I really need to know when we can expect to begin work for the brokerage and trucking of the furniture fixture and fittings. Also if t other hotel brands are doing their own hotels then I would like their contact person and numbe and a recommendation from you.

I know all of this should begin to happen soon and I am a little concerned that we have not heard anything yet. Sarkis this is one of those matters which will require your personal intervention. I will be eternally grateful.

JF.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, Thursday, April April 20,20, 2017, 2017, PAGE PAGE 3 3

millions from Baha Mar From: Sarkis Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com> Date: April 14, 2014 at 10:35:43 AM EDT To: Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> Cc: Robert Sands <rdlsands@bahamar.com> Subject: Re: Happy New Year Sandy let’s make sure Ron is aware of BCL capabilities. This business would have to be won on cost and ability but BCL should seriously be considered.

Sarkis D. Izmirlian Chairman & CEO

TWO OF THE LEAKED EMAILS FEATURING FITZGERALD’S REQUESTS contracts at Baha Mar by saying “As far as I’m concerned, I have no interest whatsoever in, no dealing with Baha Mar, none, zero.”

Tribune Business has previously confirmed BCL’s role at the $4.2 billion resort and revealed yesterday that BCL was a creditor when the project filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June, 2015, under Mr Izmirlian.

On July 7, 2013, Mr Fitzgerald emailed Mr Izmirlian to update him on his father’s health and check on brokerage arrangements.

“Firstly my dad is now back home from hospital in Florida and doing well. He still requires 24 hr care by trained nurses which is costing 15k per month and meds another 5k,” he wrote.

“Secondly, I really need to know when we can expect to begin work for the brokerage and trucking of the furniture fixture and fittings. Also if the other hotel brands are doing their own hotels then I would like their contact person and number and a recommendation from you.

“I know all of this should begin to happen soon and I am a little concerned that we have not heard anything yet.

Sarkis this is one of those matters which will require your personal intervention.

I will be eternally grateful.”

Exposed These and other emails raise questions surrounding the Government’s motives in battling Mr Izmirlian and the Christie administration’s strenuous efforts in fighting the developer’s Chapter 11 filing almost two years ago. That filing in the Delaware courts could have exposed the true ownership of businesses and contracts being held by Government ministers and/or their agents with China State Construction, who would have been forced to provide proof of ownership in said companies to receive payment for sums owed at the time of the Chapter 11 filing.

At that time, the Government through Prime Minister Perry Christie, argued its case in blocking the Chapter 11 proceedings on “national sovereignty”, claiming that as the main asset of the resort was based in the Bahamas, the court proceedings should be held here, as opposed to in a United States court. As a result of the Government’s efforts, the case in the United States was eventually thrown out.

Had the Chapter 11 reorganisation been allowed to proceed, Mr Fitzgerald and any other minister with contracts or interests with the Chinese entities would have been forced to declare their interest to be paid what was owed to their companies at the time of filing, thus exposing themselves before the Bahamian people.

According to The Tribune’s records, at the time of Baha Mar’s Chapter 11 filing, BCL was listed as one of CCA’s local creditors, with its headquarters being registered at 138, Wulff Road.

As the lead Government minister on the negotiations for the sale of the Baha Mar resort, Mr Fitzgerald’s past attempts at contracts and payments from Baha Mar now taints his and the Government’s motives in securing a new purchaser for the resort, as Mr Izmirlian’s superior offers to purchase the property continued to go unanswered last year.

In September, 2016, Mr Fitzgerald said that Mr Izmirlian was “all talk” with regards to his open offer to the Export Import Bank of China (EXIM), to pay more

Baha Mar Ltd. From: West BaySarkis Street Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com> Date: April 14, 2014 at 10:35:43 AM EDT Nassau, The Bahamas

To: Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com>

Direct 242.702.2000 Cc: Robert Sands <rdlsands@bahamar.com> bahamar.com Subject: Re: Happy New Year

Sandy let’s make sure Ron is aware of BCL capabilities. This business would have to be won

This email contains proprietary information some or all of which may be legally privileged. It is for the intended on costonly. and Ifability but BCL seriously bemisdirected considered. recipient an addressing or should transmission error has this email, please notify the author by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

BAHA MAR, above, and, left, two of the leaked emails showing requests from Jerome Fitzgerald MP.

Please the environment before printing this e-mail.

Sarkis consider D. Izmirlian Chairman & CEO Baha Mar13, Ltd.2014, at 8:47 AM, Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> wrote: On Apr West Bay Street Gentlemen, Nassau, The Bahamas

Direct 242.702.2000 Just a reminder that further to email below, nothing has materialized! Any assistance/ bahamar.com intervention would be greatly appreciated.

This email contains proprietary information some or all of which may be legally privileged. It is for the intended JF. recipient only. If an addressing or transmission error has misdirected this email, please notify the author by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

On Sun, Jan 5, 2014 at 8:43 PM, Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> wrote: Please consider the environment this family e-mail. health and continued success in 2014. I want Happy New Year!

I wish youbefore both printing and your to also thank you both for the support given to me and my family. Daddy is doing well and has On Aprto13, 2014, at distances 8:47 AM, Jerome begun walk short with his Fitzgerald walker. He<fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> still struggles with his short termwrote: memory and Gentlemen, some days are better than others, but we are eternally grateful that we were able to celebrate New Year with him. the Just a reminder that further to email below, nothing has materialized! Any assistance/

intervention would be greatly appreciated.

Unfortunately despite all efforts by you and promises to me by Daniel Liu that we would receive

the JF. brokerage and trucking work, we have not apart from a one time deal to move 40 containers. I do not know why, I am disappointed but I have accepted it and moved on.

IOn know that the Fittings should begin arriving shortly and I wouldwrote: really Sun, Jan 5,interior 2014 atFurniture 8:43 PM,and Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> wish to New now establish a relationship between BahaMar and Bahamas Cargo and in Logistics Happy Year! I wish you both and your family health and continued success 2014. I want to also thank you both all forports the support to me and my family.isDaddy is doing well and has Limited ("BCL") where of entrygiven can be advised that BCL to collect the paperwork and

begun to walk short distances with his walker. He still struggles with his short term memory and some days are better than others, but we are eternally grateful that we were able to celebrate the New Year with him.

Unfortunately despite all efforts by you and promises to me by Daniel Liu that we would receive the brokerage and trucking work, we have not apart from a one time deal to move 40 containers. I do not know why, I am disappointed but I have accepted it and moved on.

From: <sdi@bahamar.com>

Date: at Furniture 9:24:40 AM I knowMay that18, the2013 interior andEDT Fittings should begin arriving shortly and I would really To: Jerome wish to nowFitzgerald establish a<fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> relationship between BahaMar and Bahamas Cargo and Logistics Limited ("BCL") where all ports of entry can be advised that BCL is to collect the paperwork and Cc: Sarkis Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com>, Quentin Porter <quentinporter4@gmail.com>,

Quentin Porter <qpporter@coralwave.com>, "alarice ifill" <aifill40@gmail.com>, Shelly Curtis <scurtis.sts@coralwave.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Jerome From: <sdi@bahamar.com> Date: Maymeeting 18, 2013 atfor 9:24:40 EDT Pleasure you lunch.AM The interiors FFE have not arrived yet and are months away.

To: Jerome Fitzgerald <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> Right now all packages are under the control of our general contractor but I will reintroduce your Cc: Sarkis Izmirlian <sdi@bahamar.com>, Quentin Porter <quentinporter4@gmail.com>, team to them. Have a good weekend.

Quentin Porter <qpporter@coralwave.com>, "alarice ifill" <aifill40@gmail.com>, Shelly Curtis <scurtis.sts@coralwave.com> Subject: Re: Meeting Regards, SDI Jerome This emailmeeting contains proprietary some all ofnot which mayyet beand legally It is Pleasure you for lunch.information The interiors FFEorhave arrived are privileged. months away. for thenow intended recipientare only.

If an or transmission error has this email, Right all packages under theaddressing control of our general contractor butmisdirected I will reintroduce your please author by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you must team tonotify them.the Have a good weekend. not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.

Regards, SDI

On 18,contains 2013, atproprietary 7:39 AM, "Jerome Fitzgerald" wrote: It is ThisMay email information some or<fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> all of which may be legally privileged. for the intended recipient only. If an addressing or transmission error has misdirected this email, Dear Sarkis please notify the author by replying to this email. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print, or rely on this email.

It was a pleasure to meet with you and thank you for taking time to meet yesterday.

Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.

As indicated we are ready to start brokerage and trucking for the BahaMar project and remain the brokers after opening. I am aware that interior materials have began to arrive for the hotel. I would really appreciate it if we could be appointed your official broker for June 1st. 2013.

On May 18, 2013, at 7:39 AM, "Jerome Fitzgerald" <fitzgerald.jerome@gmail.com> wrote: Also with regard the limousine business we are ready to meet with your people anytime. As Dear Sarkis indicated we really only cater to highend customers and are the official agent for limolink in the Bahamas. You are encouraged to get a reference from the president of Viacom if you wish.

It was a pleasure to meet with you and thank you for taking time to meet yesterday.

Please feel free to contact me personally or have your agents contact Mr. Porter our Managing As indicated we are ready to start brokerage and trucking for the BahaMar project and remain Director directly. the brokers after opening. I am aware that interior materials have began to arrive for the hotel. I would really appreciate if weyou. could be appointed your official broker for June 1st. 2013.

Look forward to hearingitfrom Also with regard the limousine business we are ready to meet with your people anytime. As JF. indicated we really only cater to highend customers and are the official agent for limolink in the than any other for toCheng family, through theofCheng will likely Bahamas.

You purchaser are encouraged get a reference from thetheir president Viacomfamily if you wish.

the property. Mr Izmirlian Chow Tai Fook Enterprises intensify given the exposure also offered to to utilise only business,orthe details whichcontact of Mr. thePorter Government’s lead Please feel free contact me personally have your of agents our Managing Director directly.

Bahamian labour for the have been sealed before the negotiator for the sale. completion of the resort, Supreme Court. As far as the Free National Movement Look forward from you. and commit totoa hearing quick openpublic has been made aware, leader Dr Hubert Minnis has ing schedule to get the resort no Stamp Tax, Value Added been joined by Democratic JF.and running in the shortup Tax, casino license fees, work National Alliance leader est possible time. permit fees or business li- Branville McCartney among Mr Fitzgerald was quoted cense fees will be paid on the a growing list of voices callin The Nassau Guardian in resort, with the bulk of the ing for a commission of inSeptember, 2016, stating, $600m cost to complete the quiry into Baha Mar, and a “the Government of the project again going to CCA reversal of any deal that was Bahamas is not working on and Chinese labour. not in the best interest of the words when it comes to this Beyond Mr Fitzgerald’s Bahamian people. Dr Minmatter. We are working on motives also lies the question nis in recent days has also money, where it is located, of the involvement of the called for the tabling of all where we can specify it and Prime Minister, and what, side agreements made by the where we can see it. Unfortu- if anything, did he know of Government with Chow Tai nately, Mr Izmirlian has nev- Fitzgerald’s private business Fook and the Cheng family. er, ever done that. Never.” interest in the resort and A request for comment when did he know it. from Mr Izmirlian’s GranSecret deal Repeated requests for ite Venture entity was not Given the context of Mr details surrounding the alThursday, 20thresponded April 2017 to before press Fitzgerald’s previous posi- leged sale of the resort to time last night. tion with the developer and the project and his requests for services dating back as far REASONS TO USE as 2013 and Mr Izmirlian’s apparent refusal to award 'CASTROL GTX': contracts to Mr Fitzgerald 1. Double action formula unless they were the lowest cleans old sludge, protects cost provider, his words take against new sludge. on a different picture.

2. Helps extend the life of The Government, at that time, did not advance Mr your engine.

Izmirlian’s offer or promote it 3. Affordably priced.

Dowdeswell Street with the EXIM bank. As a result, a deal was made in secret with the Hong Kong-based

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THE TRIBUNE

The Tribune Limited NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

LEON E. H. DUPUCH,

SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH,

jrolle@tribunemedia.net

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914 Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

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Published daily Monday to Friday

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Behaviour and attitudes at the airport have to improve THE year was 1981. President Ronald Reagan was only six months into his presidency when America’s air traffic controllers called a strike, demanding higher salaries, a shorter work week and better working conditions.

The new president, realising the enormity of their action, informed them that they were violating the law. He told them in no uncertain terms that if they were not back to work within 48 hours, they would have forfeited their jobs and would be fired. Apparently, they didn’t take him seriously. At the end of 48 hours, President Reagan had fired 11,345 traffic controllers. Not only were they out of a job, but they were never able to work again in a control tower.

Last month, two other high ranking US public officials learned the hard way that interfering with public transport - in the skies or on land — is a serious business and could mean jail time. In 2013 to punish Fort Lee’s mayor for refusing to endorse New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s bid for re-election, two of his aides brought traffic to a standstill by ordering the closure of several toll lanes on the busy George Washington Bridge. For several hours it caused a serious and dangerous gridlock. They were found guilty — one was sentenced to 18 months, the second to two years in prison. They are to appeal. It probably also cost Governor Christie his presidential bid for the White House.

Here in The Bahamas there has been unrest for sometime in the Traffic Control Tower of the Lynden Pindling Airport over basically the same issues as the American controllers. But what neither side seemed to grasp is that air transport is an essential service - not only does a strike inconvenience the travelling public and destroy a country’s economy - especially if, like The Bahamas, that economy depends upon tourism – but it endangers people’s lives. Imagine being in an aircraft in a holding pattern above, the aircraft running low on fuel, and the pilot being refused the all-clear to land.

Traffic controllers might believe they deserve better pay, but a passenger’s life is far more important than anyone’s pocket book. However, this does not mean that a government should take advantage of the controllers’ situation. A government representative has a duty to sit around the table with them to try to come to some agreement. If this is not done quickly, a dissatisfied travelling public will cross The Bahamas off as a port of call … and that would be the end of what could have been a wonderful success story for a tiny nation. The airport would close, the economy would be destroyed. This would affect every Bahamian — and the traffic controllers’ only problem would be to find a new, but non-existent job.

In 2001, government and the controllers union (BATCU) were trying to hammer out an agreement. In general, the proposed agreement was accepted and being acted upon when the Minister indicated that the issue of outstanding holiday pay should go to the Attorney General’s office. Union members were angry.

Everything broke down. The controllers engaged in disruptive work-to-rule tactics.

Government quickly put the controllers on administrative leave. The union’s vice president and operations officer and four air traffic controllers were suspended. The union’s secretary-general, and its treasurer, both just back from vacation were also suspended as was the union’s assistant secretary-general, who

had just returned from maternity leave.

Letters threatening termination were sent to seven unionists. Only two traffic controllers were allowed to return to work.

The case went to the Supreme Court, which ruled that Government’s actions were unlawful and the traffic controllers should be allowed to return to work.

Government appealed the ruling to the Court of Appeal, which overturned the decision, concluding that Government’s actions were neither unlawful nor unreasonable.

In the intervening years, there has been unrest at the airport with unionists being told in 2013 that government would not be able to assist any more unions for the time being because of the state of the economy.

The strike over this Easter weekend, which ruined the plans of many vacationers, became a costly operation for both international and local airlines. It also damaged The Bahamas’ reputation as a reliable destination.

“I’m grateful that the entire industry was safe that day,” said Randy Butler, Sky Bahamas’ chief executive officer.

“The air traffic controllers, Government and whoever else is involved needs to sit down and work this thing out.

Continuously doing this kind of thing on the holidays is putting a black eye on the industry. Bahamasair might be able to cope with something like that, but we can’t. I think this again just speaks to the fact that there is no strategic planning, no contingency for these type of things that we know can happen during the holidays.”

Mr Butler spent the disastrous weekend having to refund tickets, cancel flights, but, more importantly, trying to repair the loss of goodwill.

Everyone is talking about the chaos caused over the Easter weekend, but according to a non-Bahamian who has a vested interest in this country, he is surprised that the Minister of Transport and Aviation thinks that the Easter weekend is a recent situation at Lynden Pindling Airport. “I know,” he said, “it has been going on for at least three weeks, if not months or more. I fly into Nassau only if I cannot possibly avoid it. It has continued to be a deterrent for some time.” That is why he was not here for the Easter experience.

“Nassau is the absolute worst airport in the world,” he said. “It seems that the air traffic controllers want it to be known for that. They evidently have some gripe with the government and are kidnapping, holding tourists hostage to get what they want.

“This behaviour speaks loudly of what Bahamians think of their most valuable asset, tourism,” he said.

“Someone needs to check this behaviour before it is widely known and the Washington Post, Times and Trip Adviser takes note of it. These people either have no idea of the damage they are causing or far worse yet - don’t care. Think first of the safety concerns. Then think about how you feel when you are delayed on a plane for two hours for good reason, such as weather. Now put that into perspective when you find out you were intentionally held hostage needlessly.”

It is important that immediate action be taken to reverse the disastrous and indifferent behaviour at what is supposed to be an international airport . This airport is the first entrance to a touristoriented country. It should have the welcome mat out to encourage many repeat visits.

The clue to governance EDITOR, The Tribune YOUR April 3rd edition had a headline on page five - “PM: Minnis has no clue about governance”.

Would it not be a good idea if the PM were to sit down for five minutes and think about his own govern-

ance - just today we read about the Carnival fiasco - the announcement made by him and not one of his cohorts.

Maybe while he is driving around town with sirens blaring, forcing his fellow Bahamians off the road, he might consider rewriting his

own comment substituting PM for Minnis.

Humility is a well respected character trait in both instances.

PATRICK H THOMSON Nassau April 4, 2017

Our future, all things considered EDITOR, The Tribune.

CONSIDERING all that has been said and done under a PLP administration, we are looking at the possible consolidation of an enslaved state.

Over five years, the Government has reigned over worsening economic conditions, and contributed to an unfriendly business environment and growing unemployment.

In response, Government has been hiring Bahamians wholesale, after years of allowing massive foreign employment for eg, construction sites. The rate of Government hiring has increased lately in a somewhat transparent move to improve its chances at the polls. (Transparency at last!)

Here we have it: government economic mismanagement followed by government hiring the unemployed in an attempt to make them “their very own”.

Unfortunately as an economic model this does not have long term viability. Unlike colonial plantation economies, the modern state as the major employer does not produce a profit and cannot provide sustainable employment.

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net Mexico tried this model in the 1980’s. Over 50 per cent of the workforce in 1984 was employed by the Mexican Government or state owned companies. This, together with Mexico’s excessive borrowing, culminated in the financial crash of 1984. The Mexican peso declined from 23 pesos / US$1.00 to 2,000 pesos / US$1. Inflation soared.

The Mexican middle class diminished and poorer classes suffered – and increased.

Greece is a current example of the results of excessive borrowing and economic fall-out. In the past few years, thousands including school teachers, have lost their civil service jobs or had their salaries and benefits reduced. Former civil servants or their widows have had their pensions slashed. And they use the remaining portion of that pension to help their now unemployed adult children.

In Greece, over 1000 schools have closed, forcing students into overcrowded conditions. Hospitals and

clinics are downsized or closed, and over 4,000 doctors have emigrated. But the number of tax offices have increased and taxes have diminished disposable income.

If the Bahamas Government becomes a major employer, it needs sponsors in an attempt to avoid a Mexican or Greek type fall-out. And there is no guarantee that attempt will be successful. Sponsors could be numbers men, foreign fashion designers or friendly foreign countries.

Friendly foreign countries have the deepest pockets. Thus our much vaunted national sovereignty, patriotically saved from the Delaware courts, may be genuflecting to a country that holds a place in Amnesty International’s list of “The 10 worst attacks on human rights in 2016.”

It’s another iteration of the golden rule: He who has the gold, rules.

Bahamians can still alter this course of events simply by voting this government out of power, no matter where we are employed.

The future we save will be our own.

LEANDRA ESFAKIS, Nassau, April 18, 2017.

A DNA vote is a PLP vote EDITOR, The Tribune IT SHOULD be obvious to everyone by now that in this upcoming election, a vote for the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) or for an Independent candidate is essentially a vote for the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP).

Despite an abysmal five years in office, during which our country has sunk to an all-time low and the average Bahamian has been left more broke, hopeless and miserable than ever before, it is clear that the PLP has somehow managed to energise its base. That means that at least 40 per cent of the voting public will be marking their X for a yellow candidate on May 10.

This should come as no

surprise to anyone who has paid attention to our history. In all three elections won by the Free National Movement (FNM), the PLP was able to get their substantial base out to support them.

Nevertheless, the antiPLP vote continues to be the larger vote in this country every time, if it can just manage to remain united.

Who knows, maybe in five or 10 years, the DNA will be strong enough to win the government. I certainly hope so, but even a blind man can see that that day has not arrived as yet.

Likewise, any Independent candidate lucky enough to be elected will only be taking a seat away from the FNM, because all the tradi-

tional PLP constituencies appear to be solidly yellow once again. It’s more likely though, that independents and DNAs won’t win a single seat, but rather will split the anti-PLP vote in traditionally red seats and hand those areas to the PLP on a silver platter.

I have supported the DNA and its leader Branville McCartney since the party’s inception. I plan to do so again in the future.

But in this election, I simply cannot play a part in getting this worthless government re-elected.

That is why I will be voting red come election day!

A DIEHARD SUPPORTER Nassau April 18, 2017

DNA

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, April 20, 2017, PAGE 5

Roberts: Has Minnis got an energy reform plan?

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Bradley Roberts questioned whether Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis has a sustainable energy reform plan for the country, saying with three weeks until the 2017 general election, the FNM is unable to offer viable alternatives to the “firm and solid” foundation already established by the government.

Mr Roberts said while the FNM has adopted the campaign slogan “It’s The People’s Time” the party has only “bitched” and “moaned” about every PLP policy decision designed to bring relief to thousands of Bahamian families.

Discourse on energy reform in the country was reignited last week after the PLP said if it were reelected to government it planned to “make the cost of electricity free to residential customers who limit their monthly use to below specified limits.”

However, on the sidelines of the FNM’s mass rally in North Andros on Tuesday night, Dr Minnis reject this, saying the PLP would promise anything just to win an election. He told The Tribune that this plan would mimic that of the PLP’s mortgage relief programme, which initially failed because it did not affect many distressed homeowners. When it was relaunched later this term, the initiative assisted around 350 people.

“The real question for Dr Minnis regarding the 15 per cent to 20 per cent of BPL customers whose electricity supplies are frequently off is what is the plan of the FNM for these Bahamians?

“Since the FNM has no plan, thousands of Bahamians could expect to remain in darkness if Minnis and

the FNM have their way,” Mr Roberts said in a press statement, which was released on Tuesday.

“The PLP has a plan to bring relief to these Bahamians. Minnis is advised that attacking the policies of the PLP is not a plan to move Bahamians forward together.

“A second question for Minnis is, where is the FNM’s plan to encourage energy conservation? Under the PLP’s energy conservation plan, any BPL customer who can keep their electricity cost to within $50 per month can qualify for government subvention. The Bahamas is a flat country and vulnerable to climate change and global warming so this policy has tremendous social and environmental benefits.

“Further, and for the edification of Dr Minnis, BPL, through its partnerships with other government and regulatory agencies, has completed the framework for the programme that will allow customers with standalone solar and wind generation systems to apply for grid interconnection.”

He added: “This programme will allow BPL’s customers ‘greater autonomy in controlling individual energy costs’ as well as increasing energy availability in the country. The Small Scale Renewable Generation Programme serves as an essential first phase in BPL’s plan to incorporate renewables in its generation mix, and to serve as a key partner in reducing the country’s overall carbon footprint.’”

Mr Roberts said there was no need for Dr Minnis to tell “untruths” for political reasons. He said the PLP promised lower electricity rates and energy reform through alternative energy and were delivering on these campaign promises.

“We promised a Minis-

THE PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman, Bradley Roberts, at the party’s convention. essential for them to resort try for Grand Bahama; we forward together.”

In an interview with this to this because they know promised tax reform, a new university, mortgage relief, newspaper, Dr Minnis cas- the damage that they have food security - BAMSI - tigated the PLP for making done to this country and and we promised to see public its electricity plan in we will search and we will Baha Mar through after its the absence of consultation uncover these damages and unfortunate bankruptcy with Bahamas Power and we will allow the chips to and on each of these prom- Light Company Ltd (BPL). fall where they may.

On the same day the re“They did not even disises and commitments the PLP government made to port was published in The cuss this with BPL, so it the Bahamian people, the Tribune, BPL released a clearly demonstrates that it Christie administration has statement saying the infor- is a promise that they know diligently pursued it with mation contained in the they have no intentions of tangible and qualified suc- story was “unknown” to the bringing forth just like the company. mortgage relief. That was cesses,” he said.

Dr Minnis said: “The just a promise to lure peo“We have made progress and laid a firm and PLP has made many prom- ple in because they knew solid foundation, but our ises and they have demon- people were suffering.”

According to the FNM’s work is not finished. We strated to us that they are know we have not touched a party that would do any- manifesto, which is pubevery Bahamian so we thing and would promise lished on the party’s webask Bahamians to join us anything just to win an elec- site, if the party is elected in moving all Bahamians tion. They know why it is so to office it plans to privatise

BPL to ensure Bahamian ownership through majority shareholding.

The party also plans to provide incentives and tax concessions to local private companies for the production and supply of alternate fuel sources including: waste-to-energy, biodiesel, methane, LNG and wind and solar energy in New Providence as well as the Family Islands.

The FNM’s plan for energy reform also includes pre-paid “smart metering”, the creation of a renewable energy economy and the modernisation of electricity generation to reduce the cost of electricity to consumers.

REGISTRAR GENERAL DENIES TARGETING SAVE THE BAYS

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net THE Registrar General’s Department has denied claims that it has specifically targeted environmental group Save The Bays in its request for detailed operations and financial records, yesterday underscoring that the agency has given similar notices to nearly 100 other registered non-profits.

The department explained that it was exercising the authority of the registrar general to ensure that all non-profit organisations were compliant with 2014 regulations, so that the country could meet its international obligations concerning regulation of the sector.

“No single non-profit has been targeted,” the statement noted.

“This review of all nonprofits on the registry is important to ensure that we are in compliance with our international obligations, preventing the use of nonprofits in the Bahamas as vehicles for international criminal activity, including terrorism, and protecting our financial industry which is vital to our national development.

“The Registrar General’s Department pursuant to these regulations, and more specifically regulations three and 13, has therefore sought to ascertain the status of all existing non-profits on its registry. In doing so the Registrar General’s Department is exercising its supervisory and enforcement authority to monitor and regulate non-profit organisations.”

Save The Bays – Coalition to Protect Clifton Bay – filed an application in the Supreme Court last week to block the request and launch a judicial review into the department’s decision.

The environmental group believes that the notice is an attempt by the government to obtain “by lawful means” information that had previously been restrained by the courts in a bid to discredit the organisation.

The group has launched four sets of judicial review proceedings in relation to alleged unauthorised construction and Crown land reclamation activities of Lyford Cay fashion mogul Peter Nygard at Nygard Cay, and the failure of the government to take appropriate action, including the prime minister, deputy prime minister, the Town Planning Committee, the director of physical planning and others.

In case documents filed on April 13, Save The Bays Director Joseph Darville said the government’s public statements towards the group became acrimonious in the wake of its harassment civil suit against Mr Nygard and lawyer Keod Smith, and further intensified with the tabling of Save The Bays private emails in Parliament.

The disclosures came as part of a fierce political debate over claims included in the alleged murder-for-hire plot outlined in the court documents in March 2016.

At the time, Minister of Education Jerome Fitzgerald accused STB of being a political organisation seeking to “overthrow” the Progressive Liberal Party government under the guise of an environmental group.

During his contribution in the House of Assembly, Mr Fitzgerald read private emails from STB members and others, which he said bolstered his claims.

For his part, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell claimed that some $8.25m has been filtered through various organisations connected with STB - locally

and internationally - from 2013 to 2015.

The following month, Mr Fitzgerald warned members of the environmental group to “batten down” because a “category five” hurricane was on its way, and threatened to table “every single” email and bank statement in his possession if needed to protect his integrity and parliamentary privilege.

Supreme Court Justice Indra Charles ruled in August last year that Mr Fitzgerald infringed on members’ constitutional rights when he tabled the private emails in Parliament, and therefore could not be protected by parliamentary privilege. She also set a permanent ban on further disclosures of confidential information.

Mr Fitzgerald has appealed that ruling.

Records requested by the registrar general include: the organisation’s purpose, objective, and activities; identity of persons who control or direct the activities of the organisation, including senior officers, directors, and trustees; financial records that show and explain the transactions within and outside the Bahamas and that show that the funds of the organisation have been used in a manner consistent with its objective and activities; and the source of the gross annual income of the organisation.

The Coalition to Protect Clifton Bay was registered in 2013 as a non-profit company limited by guarantee, and the organisation is arguing that the 2014 regulations do not retroactively impact preexisting non-profits nor were there any transitional provisions.

It further points out that the only circumstance provided that would empower the registrar general to re-

quest the documents is to assess the extent, if any, to which the registered nonprofit is being used to “assist terror financing”.

Yesterday, the Registrar General Department’s statement read: “The ‘extent, if any, to which the registered non-profit organ-

isation is being used to assist terrorist financing’ can only be deduced by sight of the requested documents and an evaluation thereof.”

PAGE 6, Thursday, April 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

FIREFIGHTERS TACKLE MAJOR NEW BLAZE AT LANDFILL from page one

Chief Supt Evans said that, fortunately, the smoke over the surrounding areas is “minimal” but a team is out in Tall Pines, Jubilee Gardens, Victoria Gardens and Fire trail Road doing assessments.

He also said firefighters had to pull resources from the dump around 7am after two separate fires broke out off Independence Highway and Golden Gates #1.

“We got a call before 3am that a fire had broken out at the dump. When we got there we met a large area on fire at the landfill,” Chief Supt Evans told The Tribune. “This area is not connected to the last fire we had last month, the most recent fire. This is a new area and we have a full team out there to assess the fire. The smoke is not as bad as the first one but there is plenty smoke being emitted from the fire. Wind is playing a factor in this, but the smoke is not sitting in any one area.”

Chief Supt Evans said firefighters were also battling fires at two structures but they have been extinguished.

“While we were at the landfill we got another call around 7am that there was fire in Golden Gates #1,” he said.

“When we arrived we met a concrete structure completely engulfed in flames.

JUST a couple of days before Baha Mar’s opening, another fire early wednesday morning.

The entire house was de- that each new landfill fire their empty rhetoric somestroyed. While fighting that disrupts our quality of life. how contains the physical fire, we got another call of He said a vote for the FNM properties to solve this onanother fire, this time off in the upcoming election is going calamity, but BahaIndependence Highway. It a vote to ensure that some- mians know different. We came in as a building fire one is held accountable for all know that the request for proposals to waste manbut it was a bush fire. Both the fires.

“Not only do these fires agement firms, which they fires are extinguished and we had no reports of any damage property and bring repeatedly talk about, won’t negative effects to our tour- fix today’s landfill blaze. We injuries.”

This latest fire marks the ism product, but they pose know their big landfill plans second massive fire at the serious health risks to Ba- outline modern engineerNew Providence landfill hamian families, which they ing and waste management this year, after a fire broke endure far too frequently,” practices, but these ‘plans’ Mr Collie said in a state- have done nothing to preout on March 5. vent today’s fire.

Free National Movement ment.

“Throughout this recur“On May 10, use your Chairman Sidney Collie yesterday said he hopes ring catastrophe, this un- right and vote for an FNM the situation is resolved duly inept PLP government government that will put “as soon as possible” given tells us not to worry. As if the people before selfish

Photos: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff endeavours. Vote for the March blaze being conFNM because we will hold sidered as the worst to hit our government actors ac- the site. Renew Bahamas countable, and we will not was engaged by the governallow incompetence to ruin ment in 2014 to manage the our beloved country and landfill and help address our endearing families,” Mr the matter.

Collie added.

However, Renew BaOn Wednesday, the gov- hamas pulled out of that ernment launched the re- deal last year claiming low quest for proposals for the profitability. It had previremediation and operation ously been seeking to reof the landfill. negotiate its management Mr Dorsett said the pre- contract and associated liminary cost of remedia- financial terms with the tion at the landfill is about Christie administration, $20m to $30m. having revealed to TribThe city dump has been une Business that it had plagued with recurring been incurring continufires for years, with the ous, heavy losses.

ROBERTS: PEET A ‘POLITICAL ENEMY’ FOR ANDROS BID from page one

THE MARSH Harbour Healthcare Centre, commissioned yesterday.

Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff

MARSH HARBOUR HEALTH CENTRE OPENS AT LAST from page one

facility, Prime Minister Perry Christie said yesterday.

“The floors had to be ripped up and lots of work had to be done,” added Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville, who oversees aspects of NHI’s implementation.

Now, the facility is state of the art. At 33,000 square feet, it will be a place where dental and lab services will be provided.

Abaco currently has about three nurses and one doctor, Dr Darville said. By

December, the island will have 16 nurses, five doctors, a radiologist and two lab technicians.

Charlene Bain, the director of public health, added that the overall health staff on the island will grow from the 20 that it has now to 70

by September.

The facility boasts an administrative wing, pharmacy and a morgue where autopsies will be performed.

Mr Christie noted during his speech that a similar facility is planned for Exuma, to be opened “in the shortest time possible.”

He also revealed that

the Ministry of Finance has dedicated funding for a mini-hospital to be constructed in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera.

Dr Darville said works have been undertaken and are nearing completion at clinics in Mangrove Cay, Andros; Mathew Town, Inagua; Deadman’s Cay, Long Island; Spring Point, Acklins; Fresh Creek, Andros; Landrail Point, Crooked Island, as well as the Eleuthera communities of Hatchet Bay, Lower Bogue and Spanish Wells.

“It is important to understand that the improve-

ments to our clinics will translate into improvements in the patient experience throughout out public health system,” he said.

In April 2012, The National Insurance Board signed a $12m contract with Coastline Construction to create the new community hospital in Marsh Harbour.

At the time, the facility was scheduled for completion within 60 weeks.

Abaco residents have complained that the stalled construction left them to cope with “substandard” medical facilities.

“Our commitment to you North Andros remains unquestioned,” Mr Roberts said. “Each step of the way, your MP Dr Gomez has superintended these developments in your best interest.

“Our foundation is strong and firm and must move forward together because our work is not done, North Andros. We must not turn back the clock on Andros with the FNM who has no track record in North Andros.

“This brings me to the Vincent Peet factor. Let me be perfectly clear and frank. The role of the party is to assemble a group of leaders and a political machinery capable of forming a government through the democratic process.

“That said, I am here as the national chairman with responsibility for the party’s operations to circle the wagon and to aggressively close political ranks.

“Vincent Peet applied for the PLP nomination, but was rejected for the same reason Peet stood down in 2012. So Peet sought the nomination, but was rejected,” Mr Roberts continued.

He said the PLP has “intelligence” that suggests the FNM is counting on Mr Peet to split the PLP’s votes.

“We are reliably informed that FNMs are saying that if Peet can syphon 100 votes from the PLP, then (FNM candidate Carlton) Bowleg can walk into Parliament without breaking (a) sweat.

Well we know the devil was

always a liar.

“Let the word go out far and wide and let it be known in Lowe Sound, Morgan’s Bluff, Nicholl’s Town, Conch Sound, Mastic Point, Stafford and Staniard Creeks that a vote for Vincent Peet is a vote for the FNM. “There can be no backing away from this. This is war fellow PLPs. Vincent Peet your political enemy and cannot support your enemy.

His political plot against the party that gave him political life and a national platform for many years is nothing short of treachery.

He is clearly an interloper with your perennial enemy, the FNM. “With hard work, an abiding faith and God’s help, North Andros will be in the winning column on May 10 and Dr Gomez will be returned to Parliament.

“On Election Day, vote PLP for Dr Perry Gomez.”

Earlier this month, Mr Peet announced his plans to run as an Independent, saying residents have urged him to return to politics.

At the time, he challenged incumbent Dr Gomez, who, he said, was given time to “find his footing,” but area residents feel that they have no representation.

Mr Peet represented the area from 2002-2012, but did not run in the last election after a controversy occurred involving $180,000 in client funds.

In spite of his decision to run against his party, Mr Peet expressed his longstanding loyalty to the PLP earlier this month.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, April 20, 2017, PAGE 7

MARIA Daxon celebrates the dropping of charges against her with Fred Smith QC and Omar Archer on Wednesday.

CRIMINAL LIBEL CASE IS DROPPED AGAINST LAWYER

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

CRIMINAL libel proceedings were discontinued against a lawyer in Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Maria Daxon, a former police constable and vocal defender for the rights of police officers, had launched a challenge to the constitutionality of the offence on the law books.

She appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes last month for the expected start of her summary trial concerning two counts of intentional libel concerning alleged statements written about Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade and Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Leon Bethell.

Fred Smith, QC, who appeared on Daxon’s behalf, said he intended to file a motion in the Supreme Court challenging

the intentional libel charge against his client.

As a result, the matter was adjourned to November 29 pending the outcome of the motion in question.

Yesterday, however, the magistrate and defence counsel were presented with a nolle prosequi (no prosecution order) signed by the attorney general and dated March 27.

The Crown, by law, could bring the case against Daxon at a future date if it wishes.

According to an originating notice of motion filed in Supreme Court on April 11, Mr Smith and Daxon sought relief from the Supreme Court for a number of reasons, namely that the charge against the latter was a breach of her constitutional right to freedom of expression.

The motion also sought an order that Magistrate Forbes dismiss the criminal libel proceedings and re-

lief for “an order of certiorari to quash the criminal libel proceedings as being unconstitutional, void, illegal and of no effect” and a further declaration that Section 315(2) of the Penal Code “provides offence of criminal intentional libel is unconstitutional.”

It was alleged that Daxon, between August 26 and August 30, 2016 wrote defamatory statements about Commissioner Greenslade and Senior ACP Bethell, which were likely “to injure and expose” the officers to “general hatred, contempt or ridicule.”

In her initial arraignment last September, Daxon elected to have the matter heard in Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

She was initially denied bail but a day later her lawyers Glendon Rolle and Wilver Deleveaux successfully applied for $100 bail in the Supreme Court.

TRIAL DATE CHANGE AFTER ACCUSED UNWELL

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A NEW trial date will have to be fixed for a man concerning an incident of sexual assault that occurred in 2013.

Otto Moss, 30, was due to reappear before Senior Justice Stephen Isaacs on Tuesday for the expected start of his attempted rape case.

However, the judge was

presented with a medical slip dated April 13 indicating that Moss was not fit to attend work for seven days.

The judge inquired from attorney Ian Cargill for further details as a jury had been empanelled for the matter.

After a brief recess, Mr Cargill indicated that his client had not only food poisoning but was also dealing with the recent death of his mother.

He said his client would

provide proof of both to the court.

Due to this, the matter was adjourned to Tuesday, April 25 for a fixture hearing.

Moss had pleaded not guilty to the charge of attempted rape when formally arraigned in the Supreme Court on March 21, 2014.

He remains on bail and is represented by Mr Cargill.

Stephanie Pintard and Anya Allen appeared for the prosecution.

WARRANT ISSUED AS MAN FAILS TO APPEAR IN SEX ATTACK CASE

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net A JUDGE issued a warrant of arrest for a man who failed to appear in court for his sexual assault case.

Senior Justice Stephen Isaacs made the order for Garvon Kelly, 32, to be ap-

prehended at the request of prosecutor Stephanie Pintard following Kelly’s failure to appear in the Supreme Court on Tuesday for the status hearing into a trial on two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse.

Kelly, who is on bail, is accused of having sexual

intercourse with a 15-yearold girl on two occasions in January 2012.

A female under the age of 16 cannot give consent to have sexual intercourse.

Kelly was formally arraigned in the Supreme Court in January 2014 where he denied the allegation.

SANPIN MOTORS LIMITED

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PAGE 8, Thursday, April 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

FNM WANTS SMALLER CLASS SIZES AND LONGER SCHOOL HOURS

Jumble Sale Saint Joseph’s Adult Day Care Centre Boyd Road Saturday, April 22nd, 2017 Time: 8:00 am until 3:00p.m.

SUPPORTERS at an FNM crowd in Andros this week.

By KHRISNA VIRGIL promises in its manifesto, Deputy Chief Reporter published on its website, kvirgil@tribunemedia.net where the FNM said it is

in agreement with the ProIF the Free National gressive Liberal Party’s Movement is elected to of- 2016 National Development fice next month, the party Plan Secretariat. plans to implement sweepThe secretariat identiing changes to the country’s fied five key areas of chaleducation system including lenges in the country’s edthe increase of police pres- ucational system. Among ence on school campuses, these is a national skills CCTV and other technol- deficit; substandard nuogy for monitoring and an meracy, literacy and oral increase of teacher com- skills; a lack of inclusivepensation packages. ness in society; lack of inThe FNM also pledged clusiveness in education to increase expenditure on and unemployment. educational infrastructure To implement compreto reduce class sizes and hensive changes, the FNM increase its investment in said its education agenda education to facilitate hu- will be comprised of four man resources and training. fundamental principles.

The party made the The organisation plans to commit to all stakeholders, recognition and encouragement that learning and skills development never stops; understanding that all students have a fundamental right to become economically productive and capable of competing successfully and the creation of stimulating and rewarding learning environments.

The manifesto noted: “The Free National Movement proposes to comprehensively address the identified challenges in the

following manner: end social promotion in the school system; increase investments in education – human resources and training, private sector involvement and technical vocational training; by greater investment in the continuous training, retraining and professional development of teachers and educational professionals; increase expenditure on educational infrastructure to reduce class sizes and provide greater resources for the educational establishment; recruit interested Bahamian candidates for teaching careers through attractive incentives; increase investment in technical and vocational education in high schools; encourage and financially support through tax breaks and subventions, private sector involvement in education subject to rigorous regulatory standards.”

The Education Act also will be amended to mandate pre-school learning for all two and a half year old children.

In response to several instances of school related violence, the FNM added that it will ensure that effective security protocols are established and properly trained security personnel

are in place and managed at all public schools. This will be supported by utilising “metal detectors to screen all personnel and the school parameters; increase police presence during critical hours before and after school at campuses and school routes to prevent and intervene in potential conflicts; enhance the use of CCTV and other technology with real time monitoring of school premises.”

And despite the push back to FNM shadow Education Minister Jeff Lloyd’s plan to introduce a pilot plan for single gender schools, the manifesto said there are plans to launch single gender classes at the junior high school level to assist in closing gaps between the achievements of girls and boys.

Human resources is another area that the FNM plans to reform.

The party said it would establish a National Educational Commission; increase teacher compensation packages and provide teachers and educational professionals with at least 10 years service and who meet prescribed criteria, with a paid sabbatical for professional development and recertification.

CHANGE OF ELECTION OFFICER IN CENTREVILLE AFTER CHIPMAN CALL AFTER making a complaint to Parliamentary Commissioner Sherlyn Hall about the appointment of a “known” Progressive Liberal Party supporter as the returning election officer for Centreville, Free National Movement candidate for the area Reece Chipman said the woman in question has been removed.

On Sunday Mr Chipman, in an interview with The Tribune, expressed his “disappointment” over the appointment of the returning officer, as he said her “advocacy” for the PLP on her Facebook page gives

the impression that “they (the PLP) are attempting to be unfair.”

Yesterday, he contacted The Tribune to say the person in question has been removed from that post, as he pledged to peruse the names of persons listed as presiding officers in Centreville to ensure they are public officers who appear impartial.

“Sherlyn Hall removed her, I wanted to say congratulations on that decision,” Mr Chipman said. “We are being reviewed by Caribbean (election) observers and we want to make sure these

things are done in integrity and independence.

“I am happy that the parliamentary commissioner saw it right to do what he should have done and removed her. We are now looking to see if the presiding officers are public officers.

“The returning officer is the one responsible for the overall Centreville constituency, but the presiding officer presides over each polling division. Everyone votes but we should have a voice of neutrality. Now all the presiding officers will be checked.”

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, April 20, 2017, PAGE 9

Hospital ‘dragging its feet’ as family seeks son’s airlift to US

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net A FOX Hill couple who have been trying desperately for over a year to have their baby son transferred to the United States for special medical care are claiming that the Princess Margaret Hospital has been frustrating the process.

Madeen and Ricardo Bullard’s baby son Joshua has been hospitalised since birth for a year and four months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at PMH, where doctors have been unable to provide the couple with any clear diagnosis or reasons for his declining condition.

They believe that doctors in the US may be able to help treat their son before it is too late and he suffers permanent damage.

A specialist at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital had scheduled an appointment to see Joshua on August 19, 2016, at the medical facility in Florida, but the Bullards said plans fell through after PMH was very unco-operative.

The Bullards visit their son in NICU every day and said there is little to no improvement in his condition.

“He is now off the ventilator but has a breathing tube in his nose to receive oxygen, and he also has a feeding tube in his stomach,” Mrs Bullard, who worked as an office manager before having Joshua but now devotes her time to him, told The Tribune.

The doctors, she said, believe that their baby may have suffered some nerve damage as both of his arms are severely bent or twisted. He has also lost sight in both eyes. “The doctors have still not given us a definitive answer as to what is wrong with our son,” Mrs

Bullard said.

Mrs Bullard said she had a healthy, normal pregnancy up until the day before her son was born, when she was given a blood transfusion on December 2, 2015, at the hospital.

She said the baby moved around and kicked a lot inside her tummy. During her pre-natal visits, the doctors said the baby was fine and that there was nothing out of the ordinary. “Everything was fine until after they gave me a blood transfusion,” she recalled.

Mrs Bullard was told by doctors that her blood count was low and that she needed a blood transfusion.

The first transfusion went well, but during the second transfusion she had a severe reaction after reportedly being given the wrong blood type.

Mrs Bullard had difficulty breathing and lost consciousness. “I was in a lot of pain; I tried to scream out but there was no sound and I started to black out; I remember seeing the nurse give me two needles,” she said.

The following day, doctors took the baby from her.

“When the baby was delivered I heard him cry, but he was very rigid and stiff to the touch,” she recalled.

The Bullards - who also have two daughters, aged five and seven - believe the “bad blood” transfusion also affected their unborn baby, but they said the hospital is denying that.

The Tribune attempted repeatedly to obtain a response from the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) but none has been forthcoming.

“I know what happened to me was negligence on the part of the hospital for giving me the wrong blood, and my baby was fine until that happened,” she

JOSHUA Bullard in the NICU at the Princess Margaret Hospital. did our part and got our baclaimed.

Last October, she said by’s passport and visa ready their son’s condition wors- for the trip,” she said.

Mrs Bullard said the docened after milk went into tors at Joe DiMaggio needthis lungs.

“We received an urgent ed PMH to send them the call from PMH around 4am baby’s medical documents. to come to the hospital, “The specialist had been and when we arrived we waiting for three weeks were told by doctors that … and the day before the our baby had coded (heart transfer the hospital startstopped beating) twice af- ed questioning the doctor about the costs and wanted ter aspirating,” she said.

Mrs Bullard, who is origi- to know how long the baby nally from Grand Bahama, would be there,” she said.

The Bullards said the said they have asked on two occasions to have their son US doctor had been back airlifted to the US for medi- and forth with the hospical treatment. The Bullards tal trying to get their son’s contacted Jackson Memori- medical documents. They al Hospital, but the doctors claimed that the PMH is there were satisfied with just dragging its feet while what PMH was doing. They their son’s health continues also contacted the Joe Di- to decline.

“They say the tests are Maggio Children’s Hospital normal but there is somein Hollywood, Florida.

“We were happy that a thing wrong,” Mrs Bullard specialist there had agreed said. “I have given them to see our baby and had giv- enough time.” She said en the hospital a date. We she had met with Prime

MADEEN and Ricardo Bullard.

Minister Perry Christie, the Health Minister, Dr Perry Gomez, and Herbert Brown, Managing Director of the PHA, in an effort to find a resolution.

“Whatever I have to do to get my son out, I will do,” she added, saying the couple were seeking legal advice.

The couple celebrated their baby’s first birthday last December in hospital

and he is now the oldest child in the NICU. “It has been a year and four months and we just want our son airlifted to the US so doctors there can tell us what is going on with him. And so we are looking for a hospital that will take him. We just want a second opinion and you can’t kill somebody because they want to get a second opinion,” she said.

PAGE 10, Thursday, April 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

Love is all you need Mental health of the nation

By DR MIKE NEVILLE

“And now these three remain: Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of all is love.”

“Love love love - all you need is love” THE Bible has been around longer than The Beatles and the concept of love perhaps even longer, but somehow there is agreement on the importance of love.

I believe that love is the food of mental health, the essential nutrient that helps us grow into decent responsible adults.

I grew up in the Sixties, when we talked of flower power and free love. I am now older and more cynical, but I still remember the student marches in Ireland, against apartheid and the Vietnam War, but that we were too afraid to discuss “The Troubles” as bombs went off around us, killing and maiming innocent people. Perhaps love was in short supply back then too.

The Bahamas is presently in crisis on the love front; a veritable conflict of confusion, where love is often seen as multiple sexual partners or controlling jealousy and even the wondrous concept of ‘Love of God’ seems to be transformed to an expensive hat or excessive tithing.

What on earth could have gone wrong?

Dr John Bowlby’s work on Attachment Theory focused on child development and had concluded that “to grow up mentally healthy, the infant and the young child should experi-

ence a warm, intimate and continuous relationship with his mother (or permanent mother substitute) in which both find satisfaction and enjoyment”. Dr Bowlby also believed that financial, community and family supports were needed to help the mother-child relationship grow.

It is disgraceful that, even today, his hope that society would support parents in need is still largely ignored.

It is also of importance to note that he concluded that maternal separation or some sort of inability to love the child would cause permanent emotional damage.

Professor Michael Rutter did more research on Attachment Theory and whilst he realised that the attachment did not have to be with the child’s mother, the lack of this nurturing and loving bond could result in lifelong personality disorder and difficulties in relationships.

The Bahamas, like many has some of the highest per other countries in this re- capita murder rates in the gion, has very high levels world. of maternal deprivation The core of many recaused by addicligions is the tions, poverty, “Golden Rule” ‘All that separations due treat others as you to immigration matters would wish to be problems and the today is that treated yourself. high incidence of I see this core bechild abuse. This we get what lief sorely tested affects both the we want and in the world at this developing child to hell with time with care and and the adult who nurture frequently was abused and everyone pushed aside by is unable to ad- else.’ greed and personequately love their al gain. All that own child. This early dep- matters is that we get what rivation is certainly part of we want and to hell with the reason that this region everyone else.

This constricts and drains the life out of love; the food of mental health is being sent to the landfill to burn and pollute the land.

Relationship experts often say that instead of waiting for love to come along you must first learn to love yourself; a difficult task without the early nurture of unconditional love. Even the total love of God is, at times, hard to fully comprehend: it is God’s love that creates goodness in us. God who sacrificed his son for us makes the Easter season all the more poignant for so many of us who have lost

loved ones.

I am not sure that I will ever fully understand the selflessness of the sacrifice but I do know that it is love that has kept us nurtured on our journey. There are so many folks from all walks of life that have reached out and helped us in so many different ways. It is this fundamental decency and goodness that gives hope for the future; surely there must be ways we can magnify this caring, compassion and love to transform our society. We have seen and felt this from so many friends and just people we

have met on the way and this has helped us so much.

Pope Francis recently said “Love is more powerful, Love gives life, Love makes hope blossom in the wilderness”.

NEXT WEEK: Hate and its effect in modern society • Dr Mike Neville is a forensic psychiatrist who has practiced for more than 40 years in the Bahamas, working at Sandilands, the prison and in private practice. Comments and responses to mneville@tribunemedia.net

YOUR VIEWS ON FEARS OF FUTURE DEVALUATION IN THE BAHAMAS YESTERDAY’S Tribune Editorial warned that devaluation could lie ahead for The Bahamas if the nation does not change its economic model. Readers on tribune242.com gave their reaction.

Banker agreed: “Devaluation is inevitable, unless the ship of state is turned around.

Avidreader said we have

been “living in a bubble”: “Madam Editor, you are preaching to the converted.

However, the masses do

NOTICE

not understand what a devaluation of the Bahamian Dollar would do to the economy almost overnight.

They think that our dollar is the US dollar or some other international reserve currency. They have no understanding of the real world out there beyond our borders. In this country many (if not most) people have become so spoiled

and insulated from harsh realities that they cannot conceive of a changed situation. They are not aware of the history of many (if not most) of the local currencies in this region. We have been living in a bubble for a few generations, always shielded from unpleasant reality by the propensity of successive governments to borrow and

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JEAN BRENOLD VIXAMAR of #2 Soldier Road, Nassau, 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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that BALAAM BROWN of Low Sound, Andros, Bahamas is applying to the Minister

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JOSEMANE LUBIN of Sunrise Road, P.O.Box SS-6156, 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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that WISLER MAURICE of Flamingo Garden, Nassau, 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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

spend while protecting the general public from those same harsh realities. I regret to say that we could be in for a very unpleasant surprise in the not too distant future. I hope that I will be proven wrong.

OldFort2012 said: “Devaluation could happen, but only if the Government plays fair with debtors. If there is a deficit of US$ currency, it will be because it is needed to repay foreign debt interest and principal due. In that case, the Government will simply default and try to restructure the debt, thereby kicking the can down the road. It will mean no more borrowing, but there again, we are so close to all debt/GDP ratios that we can’t borrow any more anyway. Will everything be hunky-dory? No, of course not. Growth will nosedive, poverty will in-

crease, a lot of people will go hungry. There will be a commercial property collapse and general deflation.

But devaluation will have been avoided for a good while.”

And there was this from Sheeprunner12: “Our currency will not automatically devalue . . . but if the cost of living becomes so unsustainable, revenue streams become too limited and the debt to GDP become so skewed . . . then the rating agencies along with the World Bank/IMF will step in to demand DEVALUATION . . . that will be the most plausible way that it may happen . . . and that is not too far fetched right now (especially if the PLP is re-elected).”

• Don’t miss your chance to join the debate on tribune242.com.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, April 20, 2017, PAGE 11

Cut in US funds for HIV relief to have ‘no impact’

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net THE termination of American HIV/AIDS relief funding for the country this year will have no impact on local efforts to combat the disease, Minister of Health Dr Perry Gomez insisted yesterday.

Following US President Donald Trump’s directive to slash foreign aid this fiscal year, the United States’ President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has reportedly ordered fund terminations across the region - with the Bahamas listed as first in line to see its funding cut entirely in September.

According to Antillean Media Group, PEPFAR directors said the global fund could no longer justify supporting upper middle-income Caribbean countries.

The article, published on April 14, states that the next country to see its funding terminated will be Barbados in 2018, while Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago will face funding reductions over the next two years until their allocation ends in 2019.

Yesterday, Dr Gomez explained that the country has historically been selfreliant in the funding of its programmes for HIV/AIDs relief and prevention.

“The support here over the years,” Dr Gomez said, “in contrast to the rest of the region, we’ve always been kind of out there by ourselves in funding our programme. In fact in the early days in the height of it we got no support. It wasn’t until (former US President) Bill Clinton came here and we got support from the

MINISTER of Health Dr Perry Gomez.

Clinton Foundation indi- National HIV Programme rectly because he negoti- of The Bahamas, he is well ated prices for drugs for us, known for his pioneering that was very helpful, but work. we never got direct funding Asked whether there for that.” would be a direct impact, he The Tribune’s attempts to said: “No, the government speak with representatives has been funding our profrom PEPFAR’s local of- gramme for years. We never fice have been unsuccessful really totally depended on over the past few days. foreign countries to do our Dr Gomez could not con- programme, unlike a lot of firm the value of funding the rest of the region. That’s allocated for the country how we got a head start on yesterday. them because the governFormer director of the ment was prepared to put

the money into drugs, and many of them (other countries) said they couldn’t afford it and got started too late.”

The PEPFAR cuts are part of $18 billion in reductions proposed by the Trump administration for this fiscal year, according to Bloomberg, which noted that AIDS assistance worldwide would face cuts of nearly $300m, and National Institutes of Healthfunded research would be

slashed by $1.23 billion.

“The spending proposal is part of a wider agenda set out by Trump,” Bloomberg reports, “who has outlined a series of reductions in non-military programmes for the next fiscal year.

“It’s up to Congress to set spending levels, and many of the more drastic measures are unlikely to become law. Legislators never approved a full budget for fiscal 2017, so instead the government is operating under

short-term funding legislation that expires April 28.”

Other proposed US health cuts for the current year, according to Bloomberg, include: $40m from staffing funds at the Food and Drug Administration; $50m from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; $350m from research grants at the National Science Foundation; and $372m from the LowIncome Home Energy Assistance Programme.

MINISTRY CONCERNED OVER VIDEO OF SEX ATTACK THE Ministry of Social Services and Community Development has expressed “grave concern” about the recent circulation of videos on social media of a man apparently engaged in sexual intercourse with an unconscious woman.

Earlier this week, police said a man was in custody in connection with this incident.

“The filming and sharing of this horrific act speaks to several problematic issues that The Bahamas continues to grapple with; the seemingly widespread acceptance of violence against women, girls and boys and the often interlinked, inappropriate use of social media,” a statement from the ministry noted.

“Violence against women and girls is the most perva-

sive human rights violation with one in three women, globally, experiencing physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. We all must speak out against violence against women and reverse the perception that such acts are acceptable.

We must focus on appropriate, helpful and useful responses and services for survivors and not on victim blaming. The best way to end violence against women and girls is to prevent it from happening in the first place. This requires determining and addressing violence at its root. Strict and swift justice for perpetrators of such violence is crucial because it ensures justice for victims and demonstrates the government’s and society’s zero tolerance against all such acts.”

The ministry said while its departments are committed to addressing the issue, a collective approach is essential.

“Each individual has a role to play in ending violence against women and speaking out as witnesses or survivors of such violence. Communities, civil society, and even private sector organisations, should work collectively with government agencies to ensure a coordinated response to ending all forms of violence in The Bahamas.

“Additionally, greater responsibility and tact needs to be demonstrated by social media users when posting content and witnessing acts of violence. Social media can be useful, but it must also be conscientious, keeping in mind that every

human being is entitled to dignity, respect and basic rights – including the right to a life free from violence.

We hope that those who captured this on video refrain from such actions in the future.

“Violence against women and girls is rooted in gender-based discrimination, stereotyping and perceptions of women in society.

The Department of Gender and Family Affairs has prioritised its programming to eliminate all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls.

Key among their efforts is the implementation of the National Strategic Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence (GBV). To date, the department has launched the ‘Reclaiming Our Boys’ project, a violence preven-

tion programme for boys and young men; initiated a national GBV awareness raising campaign highlighting an end to sexual harassment; and is currently in the process of reviewing draft gender-based violence legislation.”

The Department of Social Services also provides assistance necessary through its various divisions, including the Domestic Violence and Counselling Unit and Health Social Services at Princess Margaret Hospital and Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre.

These services are: crises intervention and information services for domestic violence victims; counselling to address trauma related to violence and emotional abuse; counselling

to address issues related to personal and relationship challenges; assistance with acquiring domestic violence protection orders; referrals for police intervention, shelter, medical and legal services; referrals for specialised psychological counselling and home visits and follow-up for clients.

For assistance, see numbers below.

• The Domestic Violence & Counselling Unit: 323-3859/ 323-0171 • The Department of Social Services National Hotline: 322-2763 or 422-2763 • Health Social Services at the Princess Margaret Hospital: 356-3350 Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre 364-9670 • The Bahamas Crisis Centre: 328-0922

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that LUCIE JOSEPH of Apt# 23 Center Drive, Carmichael Road, Nassau, 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 twentyeight days from the 20th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that Ellis Pierrelus of Montell Height, Nassau, 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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that EVELYN PASCAL of Miami St.,Nassau, 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 13th day of April, 2017 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

PAGE 12, Thursday, April 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

FEARS THAT LIGHTHOUSE WILL NOT BE FIT FOR 20OTH ANNIVERSARY

By RICARDO WELLS FEARS are mounting that because of the continuing neglect of the iconic and historic Nassau lighthouse, the landmark which gives cruise ship visitors their first impression of the capital will not be in a fit state to see its 200th anniversary this year.

Despite several pleas for extensive refurbishments and maintenance, the ravages of time, weather and - most recently - Hurricane Matthew have left the Hog Island “gateway” lighthouse in sorry decline with its bicentenary approaching on September 1.

With reports noting broken window panes in the gallery, chipped wood and a severe lack of paint, The Tribune contacted all the departments that hold varying levels of responsibility for the site. The upkeep of lighthouses around The Bahamas is managed through a partnership between the Port Department, Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation (AMMC). But due to this complex arrangement between the three government units, maintenance and repairs are often delayed or not carried out at all.

To date, only AMMC officials have offered a re-

sponse, with executives indicating that internal discussions have been planned to determine how best to proceed with respect to the lighthouse’s upkeep and commemoration.

In 2015, The Tribune published an article that highlighted ongoing issues at the historic property. In that article, Michael Pateman, Senior Archaeologist at the AMMC, acknowledged that the condition of the lighthouses across the country had been left in limbo in recent years due to government oversight.

However, he insisted that the government was working to rectify the matter.

At the time, he projected that it would cost millions to properly maintain the various Bahamas lighthouses, adding that the government wanted to do institute a system that ensured upkeep and maintenance, but needed to organise it.

“They are trying to create a national plan which will aim to prioritise the historic lighthouses around the country,” Mr Pateman told The Tribune.

“A sub-committee was established by Transport Minister Glenys Hanna Martin in 2013 or 2014, after the automation of the Inagua lighthouse in 2012.

That committee was crafted to enhance the way historical lighthouses are treated.

A RECENT view from a cruise ship of the Nassau lighthouse, which is showing clear signs of decline and disrepair.

Photo: Ronald G Lightbourn They are working on a plan to refocus these monuments to become revenue generating properties. If that is achieved then the properties themselves could assist with the expenses associated with running them.”

Within weeks of his comments, several initiatives were set in motion to have repairs carried out on the lighthouse. Those actions were welcomed by local historian and author Ronald Lightbourn, who told The Tribune following the 2015 repairs, “Whatever department of government is responsible for the work now done, it is to be thanked and encouraged.”

Responsibility for the light and general upkeep of the site lies with the Defence Force, through the Ministry of National Security. The Port Department, through the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, is responsible for the human resources management with regard to the lighthouse keepers. The AMMC, through the Office of the Prime Minister, is responsible for the overall maintenance of the 12 historic lighthouses in the Bahamas.

But recently, Mr Lightbourn has again reached out to The Tribune, calling for attention to be given to this beloved monument, one of the oldest lighthouses in the western hemisphere.

“Nassau lighthouse, the signpost of the Port of Nassau, continues its sorry decline,” Mr Lightbourn said.

“Three complete banks of window glass are missing. It is difficult to imagine how the gallery survived Hurricane Matthew. Remember this is the first sight which arriving and departing cruise ship passengers have of our historic and beautiful lighthouse, soon to become a dilapidated wreck unless someone comes to its rescue.”

“The Government should be preparing now for the 200th anniversary of its first lighting on the evening of September 1, 1817 (see complete story in Paul Albury’s 1984 Paradise Island Story). Fascinating stories abound about the lighthouse, the most memorable being from an eye witness of the 1866 hurricane, “when the ocean rolled completely over Hog Island into the harbour in surges so enormous that the crests of the waves were level with the gallery of the lighthouse, sixty feet above the sea.” Governor Rawson reported, “The lantern of the lighthouse was broken and most of the lamps and reflectors destroyed or seriously damaged.”

THE GALLERY showing the missing banks of glass panels.

Mr Lightbourn said that Paul Albury had written in 1984, “With no maintenance the lighthouse is fast becoming a sorry sight. It badly needs painting and its windows, frequently unfastened, swing freely with the changing winds. The curi-

ous walk through it at will, as if they were exploring an old castle”.

He added: “The shutters and front door on which Albury commented on have now broken free of the building and been washed out to sea.”

www.ub.edu.bs

“COLOURS!!!...

Above and Beyond 2017” by Je-ROME HARRIS MILLER

on Thursday April 20th, 2017 at the Christ Church Cathedral Church Hall top of the hill, George St. 6:00pm Part proceeds in aid of University of The Bahamas Winston V. Saunders Memorial Scholarship Fund.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, April 20, 2017, PAGE 13

‘PLP disqualified’ from vote over closeness with China’

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net BAHAMAS Constitution Party Leader S Ali McIntosh yesterday suggested that the Christie administration’s perceived alignment with the People’s Republic of China has disqualified the party and its members from contesting seats in the upcoming general election, citing Article 48 (1) b of the Constitution.

In a statement read on the steps of the House of Assembly, Ms McIntosh claimed that by virtue of this clause, the entire Christie administration does not qualify to be nominated or re-elected to the House of Assembly due to its perceived association with the Export Import Bank of China, China Construction America and the new owners of the Baha Mar project.

Article 48 (1) b says no person shall be qualified to be elected as a member of Parliament who is, by virtue of their own act, under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.

Ms McIntosh cited the Supreme Court’s decision

ALI MCINTOSH, leader of the BCP. to seal documents relating people.

“This recommendato Baha Mar’s mobilisation, which officials said was the tion of the sealing of the request of the EXIM Bank, documents by the Supreme to bolster her claim. She Court was requested by said the deal was kept un- the China Import-Export der wraps against the best Bank, the state-run corpointerest of the Bahamian ration of the People’s Re-

public of China,” she said.

“In the second instance, the Bahamas government seemed to have given its allegiance to the PRC by taking a side in favour of the People’s Republic of China, EXIM Bank, against the

original visionnaire and owner of the Baha Mar project, to facilitate its forced winding-up of the project.

“It is now clear, that in addition to the Christie government’s involvement in this debacle with the People’s Republic of China, a sovereign state, against the best interest of the Bahamian state, their moral authority for governance is now in a deficit, and should not be returned to this honourable House.

“In fact, should Perry Christie, and all members of his Cabinet be nominated (today), their nomination should be declared null and void.”

She continued: “Notwithstanding, the lack of proper stewardship over the past 60 months, where tens of millions of dollars have been misappropriated, mismanaged and certainly squandered, leaving the economy in dire straits, and the Consolidated Fund empty; the Bahamian people must demand that Perry Christie and his Cabinet be made to account for these matters before they can be nominated for this House.”

Ms McIntosh encouraged the Bahamian people to look among the many per-

COLOURS COLLECTION TO AID SCHOLARSHIP FUND ARTIST Je’Rome Harris Miller continues his annual fundraising exhibitions for the University of the Bahamas Winston Saunders Memorial Scholarship Fund this week.

“Colours ... Above and Beyond” opens on Thursday night and runs until Sunday evening in the Christ Church Cathedral Hall. Mr Saunders was a Bahamian educator, lawyer,

actor, playwright and cultural director.

“The collection depicts the colours on the horizon, both in the sky and below it,” Mr Miller told The Tribune. The exhibit will feature about 35 to 40 pieces, all specifically done. “I started preparing at the end of last summer when I started doing all my research and I was finished all the work just

before Lent when we had a preview show of the collection,” he said.

Mr Miller’s works can be found in collections around the world, including Europe and the US, and in the private collections of Ian and Eleanor Phillips, Winston and Gail Saunders, Joe and Lynda Gibson, Lady Sharon and Sir Franklyn Wilson, Gary and Cleopatra Christie, Elaine

Pinder, Scott Godet, Ferron and Carolita Bethel, among others. His work has been donated in support of many local charities and fundraisers.

Mr Miller has been putting on the exhibitions for 11 years, his first - ‘Bold’ - was held at the Azure Spa, British Colonial Hilton Hotel, in 2006. He auctions a number of his pieces in the exhibition

to raise funds towards the Winston Saunders Memorial Scholarship. He has been a great supporter of the C R Walker High School musical department, where he is on the school board, and is also on the programme advisory committee at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute.

He said his philosophy is to not make his exhibitions

sons who will make themselves available to serve and elect men and women who are seeking to manage the country’s resources with “transparency, dignity and integrity.”

“In an election, the people have a right to vote for whatever party they desire … however, a vote for a BCP government will articulate and implement God’s plan for the continued safety, economic security and prosperity of all the people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The BCP is hope for Bahamaland.”

The BCP yesterday also announced plans to run 25 candidates in next month’s election. The party ran five candidates in the 2012 general election and collectively received less than 100 votes.

The party, described as a fringe group by political pundits, announced the “indefinite” suspension of its national campaign last August, with Ms McIntosh at the time citing the party’s need to “evaluate” its “viability in the campaign for the governance of the nation” in the lead-up to the general election.

The party returned with a national platform last November.

commercial events, “but an opportunity for patrons to come out and enjoy themselves in an atmosphere conducive to artwork”.

• ‘Colours ... Above and Beyond’ opens on Thursday at the Christ Church Cathedral Church Hall on George Street at 6.30pm.

It will remain open from April 21-23, 2pm-6pm, by appointment only.

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If you have what it takes, we want you!

Fidelity is looking for a passionate, sales-driven, networking professional to fill the role of:

Loans Officer JOB SUMMARY: The ideal Candidate will be a proven sales leader who is target-driven and possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This role is primarily responsible for the sale of Fidelity’s loans products and services, while ensuring the successful relationship management of clients. In addition to a fixed salary, this position also earns substantial performance-based incentives.

Gastrointestinal Services Available At Family Medicine Center

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Perform the sale of loans, credit cards and other credit products.

• Meet with current and prospective clients regarding loan applications and other credit matters – utilizing effective relationship management skills.

• Prepare credit applications (loans, overdrafts, credit cards) and perform credit facility renewals.

• Perform collection of overdue loans/credit card payments.

• Serve as a relief for other Lending roles as required.

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS: • • • • • • • •

High school Diploma.

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the Financial Services Industry.

Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills (verbal and written).

Must be energetic, competitive and goal-oriented.

Strong integrity and work ethics.

Proficient at Microsoft Office Suite programs.

Ability to work in a self-motivated environment with little supervision.

Ability to manage the administration of multiple tasks at one time.

PLEASE SUBMIT BEFORE May 5th 2017 to:

HUMAN RESOURCES Re: Loan Officer

ABSOLUTELY NO PHONE CALLS

careers@fidelitybahamas.com

A competitive compensation package (including base salary and commissions) will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualification.

the centre for digestive health Medical care in the specialty of gastroenterology

702-9310 | 328-5550 |

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GOING LARGE BRINGS BIG PRIZES FOR CARL’S JR CUSTOMERS

PICTURED from left: Kristine Sandiford, winner, Shirlen Godet, brand manager, Carl’s Jr, Payton Rahming, winner, Garnel Johnson, winner and Sasha Pratt, marketing coordinator for Caribbean Bottling Company.

THREE lucky Carl’s Jr customers - Kristine Sandiford, Payton Rahming and Garnel Johnson - are LA-bound after winning

the fast food outlet’s recent contest.

During the Go Large Combo Upgrade promotion, Carl’s Jr teamed up

with Caribbean Bottling Company and Coca Cola for a major giveaway to celebrate the opening of a third franchise location in

Online birth registration launched in Abaco DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Urban Development Philip Davis officially launched the government’s online birth registration initiative in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, on April 13 in the Bahamas Government Complex.

YOUR

Shantera Mackey, the mother of Carmelle Larissa Mackey, was presented with the first printed online birth certificate during a brief ceremony.

Mr Davis, who headed a small delegation including Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Sena-

CHOICE FOR THE FAMILY WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/JOYFM1019

tor Allyson Maynard-Gibson to that island, described the mobile initiative as a “milestone achievement.”

Mrs Maynard-Gibson said the Registrar General’s Department is proud to be able to empower Bahamians in this very “significant” way. “We have been travelling throughout the entire Bahamas not only to make certified copies available - we reinstated this in 2012 - of all documents, but also now to enable persons to get live birth certificates, ultimately death and marriage certificates as well, in real-time,” she said.

“Gone are the days where persons have to travel to New Providence to get from the database or to put into the database something that can happen right here in real-time in their own community,” she added.

Online birth registration has also been launched in Cat Island, Eleuthera, Andros, the Berry Islands and San Salvador and is expected to come on stream in other Family Islands.

Carmichael Rd. The winners, pictured at Carl’s Jr on East West Highway, received their prize packages including

two NBA tickets to see the Los Angeles Lakers take on the New Orleans Pelicans, two airline tickets to LA, hotel vouchers and $500

spending money for the trip. Earlier this year, the quick-service outlet opened a third location on New Providence.

‘The Bahamas’ own street philosopher’

PAGE 16, Thursday, April 20, 2017

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TEAM Reel Deal on the Yellowfin Tuna near Chub Cay.

JUNE RUSSELL, of Blackfly Lodge, Abaco, with a nice Strawberry Grouper.

JACK Miles on the Grouper in Exuma.

LUKE Maillis enjoying a Good Friday catch with Jack Miles.

KEEP checking the Bahamas Sport Fishing Network (BSFN) expert page for fishing reports throughout The Bahamas: this will

be helpful in tracking the “hot spots” and providing advice on gear and fishing methods being used.

For a sample of the spec-

tacular fishing to be had in The Bahamas, expert advice, tournament dates and results, informative features and photo galleries visit the BSFN page at tribune242. com or www.bsfn.biz or on Facebook - Bahamas Sport Fishing Network.

BSFN slideshows can be found on USA Today’s website in the Travel section at experience.usatoday.com.

www.ub.edu.bs

PUBLIC NOTICE University of The Bahamas is seeking qualified Bahamian contractors to submit proposals on the design/build of a multipurpose sports court on the Oakes Field Campus.

Interested contractors may collect RFP packages from the Office of the Vice President of Operations.

Location: Room A85, Oakes Field Campus Pick-up times: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(April 19th – 24th, 2017) Site review/walkthru – April 26th, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre.

PAGE 18, Thursday, April 20, 2017

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