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VOLUME:115 No.129, MAY 29TH, 2018

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WOMAN: MEET THE NEW MISS WORLD BAHAMAS

Belt beating girl taken into care Teen victim of barbaric assault taken off family

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net A GIRL severely beaten by her guardians in videos that recently went viral has been taken into the custody of the state, The Tribune understands.

An official at the Ministry of Social Services said she is most likely residing in a children’s home. The footage of her beating earlier this month sparked a divisive debate about corporal punishment in the country.

Police Chief Superintendent Solomon Cash said yesterday authorities are still investigating her

case and have not yet determined if anyone will be charged with a crime.

A one-minute, 30-second video first posted to Facebook showed the young girl being punched in her head by a woman, beaten with a belt and struck with a stick for “coming home late”.

Another video of the girl being beaten - not previously reported in the media - was also posted to Facebook. That time, she was beaten repeatedly and savagely with a belt by a man. At one point she cried that she would “fall out”.

SEE PAGE THREE

SENATOR Ranard Henfield indicated in a now-deleted tweet over the weekend he will vote against the Interception of Communication Bill in the Senate, calling the issue “a matter of conscience”.

If he follows through, it would be a rare public break with the Minnis

A 15-YEAR-OLD boy is expected to be charged in Magistrate’s Court today in connection with three recent sexual assault incidents of young girls that sparked concern around the country, Police Chief Superintendent Solomon Cash said yesterday.

The young man was taken into custody last Friday.

The most recent reported sexual assault of a young girl occurred on Baillou Hill Road on Thursday near the Big Pond Park.

The first incident, involving an eight-year-old girl, happened on Bahama Avenue off Baillou Hill Road on April 28.

The second incident, involving a 12-year-old girl, happened on May 14 on Darling Street off Wulff Road near the Stephen Dillet Primary School.

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

A JURY in the Coroner’s Court ruled last week Wednesday that the death of 25-year-old Christopher Turnquest in a 2016 boating incident involving the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) was “accidental,” not the result of negligence by defence force officers.

Mr Turnquest’s mother, Dale Turnquest, said yesterday the family will appeal the ruling.

“I feel like I failed my son,” she said in a statement to The Tribune.

Mr Turnquest was in a 13-foot skiff east off Potter’s Cay Dock around 8pm on October 2, 2016 when his vessel was struck by an

administration for Mr Henfield who railed against the bill when the Christie administration introduced it in the lead-up to the 2017 general election.

The bill passed the House of Assembly last week.

A post on Mr Henfield’s Twitter page said: “It should be clear where one stands today on an issue that one vehemently fought SEE PAGE NINE

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

FAMILY’S FURY OVER BOAT DEATH VERDICT

HENFIELD’S ‘NO’ ON SPY BILL VOTE

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

SEX ATTACKS SUSPECT: BOY, 15, TO BE CHARGED

AN IMAGE taken from a video circulating on social media showing the girl being beaten.

SEE PAGE SIX

CHIPMAN DEMANDS PROBE INTO POLICE SHOOTING

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net IN the wake of another police-involved shooting in his community, Centreville MP Reece Chipman is calling for the creation of statutory framework to investigate and examine police shootings.

The recommendation was made on the front porch of Beverly Lee’s home. Her son, 20-yearold Deangelo Evans, was

REECE Chipman MP at the home of Deangelo Evans.

Photo: Terrel W Carey/ Tribune Staff purportedly shot 18 times by police on Sandy Lane, off McCullough Corner

Sunday morning.

Outlining the proposal, Mr Chipman insisted the rise in police-involved shooting deaths across the country mandated the establishment of a staterun organisation focused on evaluating the circumstances of serious crimes involving police.

He said the organisation would outline the specifics of each case and submit a report on its findings.

SEE PAGE FIVE

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

FELICITY INGRAHAM: FACE-TO-FACE WITH THE BIRDMAN OF THE BAHAMAS

SEE PAGE EIGHT

PAGE 2, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

STOPPING MIGRANTS ‘NOT AS EASY AS IT LOOKS’

CAPTAIN Adrian Chiswell during a tour of recent illegal migrant landing sites yesterday.

By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) is working on implementing a drone programme to improve its capabilities and combat the threat of illegal migrants, Acting Officer-InCharge of Coral Harbour Captain Adrian Chriswell said yesterday.

Speaking to reporters during a tour of the waters surrounding the Coral Harbour Base, Captain Chriswell addressed the group of illegal migrants who landed on New Providence over the weekend, the difficulties the RBDF faces in preventing them from making landfall, and dispelled the notion that these migrants represent a security threat to the base.

According to an RBDF statement, shortly after midnight on Sunday, a 35ft Haitian sloop made landfall off Venice Bay, south New Providence.

As a result of a combined effort between police, immigration and RBDF officials, 26 migrants were captured, who were turned over to immigration officials for further processing.

This is the third time since last November a sloop has landed in New Providence in the vicinity of the Coral Harbour base.

In December, a Haitian sloop made landfall three miles west of the base.

More than 50 people were apprehended then.

In November, another sloop landed illegally on Adelaide Beach.

When asked if there have been more illegal landings this year, or if numbers have been consistent with previous years, Captain Chriswell said “fairly consistent”.

“They come in waves,” he said. “It depends on the weather, the conditions in Haiti at the time

- the political scene, the economic scene.

“So depending on the weather, if it’s looking good for the wind to bring them in, which happens a lot with these storms, they can follow the storm because it brings them up the northwest.

“You might get a wave of three, four come out at one time. Then you may go several months before the second wave comes up.”

He added because of this, it is difficult to predict how migrants are going to travel unless the RBDF receives intelligence information from Haiti itself.

Captain Chriswell told reporters the RBDF is unaware of the number of illegal migrants who were able to avoid apprehension during this recent landfall.

However, he said a typical sloop can carry anywhere from 30 to 80 people.

With 26 apprehended on New Providence on Sunday, the captain estimated “similar numbers” were also captured on Eleuthera over the weekend, when another sloop landed at Savannah Sound.

This would bring the total from this weekend up to about 60.

The captain said capturing migrants is challenging because they frequently change their patterns.

On yesterday’s tour of the waters surrounding the base, he let reporters see first-hand how difficult it is spot other vessels even in broad daylight — let alone in less favourable conditions, such as rain or at night.

He said acquainting the press is important, so the public can be acquainted with the fact that it’s “not as easy as it looks”.

He added that Venice Bay is three miles from the base, which is also challenging to see.

However, the captain

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

THE ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force taking the media out to sea yesterday. admitted this area is pre- drone programme,” he said.

“You can start with a ferred by migrants.

“The good thing about $5,000 drone and then a “Right now they’ve the drone is one operator $50,000. Than you can found out that Venice Bay can sit back in Coral Har- easily go up and spend anyis underpopulated,” he said. bour or any facility and where from $1-3m.”

“Very few houses, limited send the drone up.

However, the drone street lighting and actually “And you don’t have to programme still has its limited traffic because it’s a worry about the personnel difficulties. private area. So, they know and having all of the fuel “There are several comthere’s not going to be a lot and provisions on board. panies who are offering of traffic and people just “The aircraft as well, with [drones] for maritime. casually driving around.” the pilots on board, they do That’s one of the biggest He also revealed the a good job. But again, that’s problems — most of the RBDF is putting a new wear and tear on the air- drones can’t get wet. They radar system in place in craft. They cost a lot more don’t land in the water. If Matthew Town, Inagua. than a drone would. And you drop one in the water, “We’re still improving then you have to train the that one’s a right-off. You the facilities in Matthew crew and then you have to need to shop around and be Town. We anticipate having overhaul the equipment. sure that water drone you that radar and the track“It’s not a cheap exercise find is going to work for the ing system in place in a few of trying to keep the coun- maritime environment to short months, maybe three try secure. And like I say be able to go out. months. That will be the it’s not just on the migrants, “And launching a drone first layer.” it’s all the other external from a moving platform He added the force is threats.” is difficult. And it’s even also putting equipment Captain Chriswell said more difficult retrieving a and a full facility in Ragged the RBDF is working with drone. Because if you have Island and will also improve various drone models, any electronic failure on the the facilities in New starting with “simple off- drone, the drone defaults to Providence. the-shelf” brands before it’s last position — where it It is also working on a working toward military took off from. And [now] drone programme. grade. you’re five miles away from “The next project that Those, however, get that point. we’re working on is the increasingly pricier.

“So it’s not just as easy

as going in the store and buying [it] off-the-shelf, and maritime and military grade all at the same time.

But they’re working on it.”

Captain Chriswell also said illegal landings do not represent a significant threat to the base or national security, as most of the migrants are not in the physical condition to pose a threat. However, he did acknowledge that they make a “societal impact”.

He added the public should not be “alarmed” by the landings, but should participate in helping authorities by informing them if they see anything suspicious.

The captain added that “reduced landings” should happen, while admitting that he can’t be sure if it will get down to “zero”.

However, with hurricane season approaching, he said the RBDF also needs to concentrate on supporting the local population.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, May 29, 2018, PAGE 3

Belt beating girl taken into care from page one A woman then replied: “You ga fall out? You ga fall out? You wasn’t falling out when you was taking d***. You wasn’t falling out when you was by man…”

The man beating her then appears to pull her to the ground, lashing her multiple times with a belt.

A woman’s voice can also be heard in the background

screaming, “Kill her, kill her.”

The Department of Social Services has not said whether it will recommend that charges be pressed in the case. Police officials say they anticipate a recommendation from such officials about what should happen in the matter.

In wake of the incident, human rights group Rights Bahamas has urged

law enforcement officials to establish stricter policies to protect children from abuse.

In a recent press statement, the group questioned whether officials are “doing everything in their power” to ensure the wellbeing of minors. It accused National Security Minister Marvin Dames of “refusing to recognise a clear case of child abuse”.

Stephanie St Fleur,

president of the group, said in a statement on Friday: “It is heartbreaking to not only see a child treated this way on video, but also to hear that officials refused to call it what it is.”

“If we cannot label a child receiving 40 blows to different parts of her body by a grown adult (as) abuse, then how can we raise awareness about such terrible practices? How can we teach our children

right from wrong?” she said.

Ms St Fleur also discussed the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s (RBPF) apparent delay in reporting recent incidents of sexual assaults involving young girls.

“It is also baffling that the police failed to inform the public about a possible child predator on the streets,” she said. “Our children are among the most vulnerable members of society and we

expect law enforcement to go above and beyond, both to warn society of potential threats against minors, and to recognise and thoroughly investigate all cases in which they are abused.”

Various other advocacy groups have also reacted to the assaults, renewing calls for the implementation of a sexual offenders registry and for judicial reform to address abuse of minors.

WITNESS SAYS CLERK IN FRAUD CASE ADMITTED ‘MANIPULATION’

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

he found the full VMMS file on his desk.

He said he subsequently reached out to Johnson, A GOVERNMENT who told him that he put employee yesterday testi- the file on his desk. fied how former Ministry Ultimately, Mr Ellis said of Finance accounts clerk as a result of his reconJames Anwar Johnson ciliation, VMMS Business admitted to “manipulating” Service was paid in excess invoices which ultimately of $800,000. Some $400,000 resulted in a local business plus of that sum reflected receiving over $400,000 in payments authorized by unauthorised payments.

Mr Cox, while the other Duane Ellis, a former $400,000 plus reflected payfinance officer at the Minis- ments that were not duly ter of Finance, said Johnson approved. admitted to altering the Mr Ellis said the matter payment records of VMMS was ultimately taken up Business Service, which he with the financial secresuggested resulted in that tary Simon Wilson, whom business receiving $400,000 he said Johnson confessed more than the $400,000 plus in front of. Based on those it was actually due to be paid. developments, Johnson was Johnson’s confession, Mr promptly terminated.

Ellis maintained, was made According to Mr Ellis, in front of himself as well the VMMS file that was as the financial secretary, placed on his desk conSimon Wilson, sometime in tained nine invoices.

April of last year, ultimately Another two invoices were leading to Johnson’s termi- discovered after Johnson nation from the ministry. was fired from the Ministry However, that part of of Finance.

Mr Ellis’ testimony was in The matter continues on dispute during yesterday’s Wednesday. proceedings, as Magistrate Johnson is standing Ambrose Armbrister was trial over allegations he not satisfied that a connec- defrauded the ministry of tion had been established over half a million dollars between the invoices the within a five-month period.

Crown alleges Johnson The St Andrew’s Beach manipulated, and those Estates resident stood he allegedly confessed to before Chief Magistrate manipulating.

Joyann Ferguson-Pratt in According to Mr Ellis, on August of last year facing April 12, 2017, he received 11 counts of falsification a phone call from Grant of accounts for his alleged Thorton concerning a actions between December number of payments. As 2016 and April 2017. a result of his subsequent It is alleged that Johnson, investigations into the being an accounts clerk at matter, he told James, his the Ministry of Finance, did subordinate at the time, to falsify the payment records pull VMMS’ file for him. of VMMS Business Service However, he said James from December 15, 2016 to told him he could not locate April 5, 2017, purporting the file at that time. to show that VMMS BusiMr Ellis said he then ness Service was entitled to decided to ask another receive payments totaling employee, Cypreana $530,377.67.

Hanna, to locate VMMS’ Johnson was also charged file, but was not successful with ten counts of stealing in finding it on that date. by reason of employment.

On April 13, Mr Ellis He is accused of being said he called Hiram Cox, concerned with others an official at the Depart- and stealing a total of ment of Inland Revenue $445,996.42 in cash from responsible for authorizing the ministry between payments for contracting December 21, 2016, and companies, to send him March 31, 2017, which he a spreadsheet concern- had access to by virtue of ing VMMS’ authorized his employment. payments.

Johnson also faced one After he would have count of attempted stealing gone into the system and by reason of employment saw certain payments that for allegedly attempting to aroused his suspicions, Mr steal $41,115 from the minEllis said he printed the istry on April 5, 2017. spreadsheet and conducted Johnson pleaded not a reconciliation of the data guilty to all of the charges. he was presented with.

Later that month, he was Mr Ellis said he also granted $30,000 bail with called Johnson again that two sureties by Supreme day concerning the wherea- Court Justice Gregory bouts of the VMMS file, but Hilton. As part of his bail got the same answer that conditions, Johnson must he (Johnson) did not know report to the Elizabeth where it was.

Estates Police Station every Before he left on that day Monday and Friday. however, Mr Ellis said he Terry Archer and Destold Johnson that he could tiny McKinney represent not hold out on not having the Crown in the matter. the file. The next morning, Bjorn Ferguson represents 29th May 2018 on April 14, MrTuesday, Ellis said the accused.

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LEANDER Bell outside court yesterday.

SUSPECT ACCUSED OF GROVE MURDER

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

A 23-YEAR-OLD man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations he murdered another man in the Grove area earlier this month.

Leander Bell, of Rosebud Road, stood before Deputy

Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain charged with one count of murder stemming from the May 14 incident.

It is alleged that on the day in question, he murdered Jason Edgecombe.

According to reports, shortly after 10pm, a group of men were standing in front of a barber shop on Fourth Street off Robinson

Road, when a white Nissan March pulled up.

One of the occupants fired a number of shots into the group, hitting one of them. Paramedics were called to the scene, but were unable to revive the injured man. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Bell was not required

to enter a plea to the charge and the mater was adjourned to August 21 for service of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

Bail was denied and he was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services in the interim. He has the right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.

PAGE 4, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

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Fiscal Responsiblity Act lacks teeth LIKE democratic elections and freedom of information, fiscal responsibility is central to good governance and to any nation’s sustainability. Not only does fiscal responsibility reflect a commitment by a government to do what it asks its citizens to do – budget wisely and be prepared to be held accountable if it does not, it positions that government to maintain or move toward macro-economic stability.

Absent such legislation, it is up to governments to spend as they wish, whether capriciously or with deliberation. Without such legislation, it is up to citizens to hold governments accountable for what they believe government should have done with the people’s money by re-electing or rejecting them at the next opportunity. That is precisely what the Bahamian public did. Without formal parameters for spending and without any signs of economic growth that would in part or spirit justify extraordinary spending and borrowing leaving the country with a 57 percent debt to GDP ratio, the former administration was deemed reckless with the public purse and resoundingly tossed out of office, retaining only four of 39 seats in the House of Assembly as of the May 10, 2017, election.

The former government did not violate the law in its spending, it violated the people’s trust and expectations.

So the introduction after all these years of a Fiscal Responsibility Bill is a welcome move and the Minnis administration and, in particular, the Ministry of Finance and Office of the Attorney General, are to be commended for the work that went into it. However, the Fiscal Responsibility Bill 2018 as it stands now lacks three critical components.

Firstly, it does not give specific clear deadlines that spell out when the budget would have to meet a specified goal in debt to GDP ratio while giving the Minister sweeping powers as seen as “necessary and expedient” to carry out the intent of the law.

Secondly, it does not specify how the Act is to be enforced or what penalties would apply to failure to meet obligations.

Thirdly, while creating a Fiscal Council, it does not include terms of reference indicating whether the Council would have a strong role and be an integral part of compliance.

In some ways, the very thorough bill - which we reiterate reflects a tremendous amount of work on the part of the Attorney-General’s office and staff in much of its writing - could result in a

valiant attempt that nets little more than putting the wolf in charge of guarding the chicken coop.

The Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG) has posted a thorough review of the Bill on its website and we encourage those who appreciate the seriousness of fiscal responsibility to take a good look at it.

ORG’s report follows consultation with nearly two dozen civil society groups. It compares the pending legislation with similar acts in other countries and to international standards. “The Bahamas Bill is reflective of many recognised pieces of legislation, including New Zealand and Australia which are considered (international) standards in the space,” ORG’s report says. It goes on to note that several countries - Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, India and Peru among them - grappled with some of the same issues that the current Bill falls short on, including specified penalties and the independence of the oversight board, in The Bahamas’ case, the Fiscal Council, but resolved those issues.

ORG’s greatest concern is the lack of specified or codified penalties coupled with sweeping Ministerial powers.

“Throughout the Bill, there is a noticeable lack of reference to penalties or incentives to encourage compliance and rectify behaviour in the implementation of fiscal responsibility and discipline processes. Where there is mention of penalties, said penalties are not defined or codified and are left to Ministerial discretion, allowing room for uneven or unfair application or the perception thereof,” the report states.

We would hope a government swept into power on the basis of promises of transparency, openness, commitment to public consultation and fiscal responsibility would realize what the combination of sweeping Ministerial powers and lack of specific penalties for misconduct would look like to the electorate who hoped for better than before.

This was supposed to be the People’s Time. That means government is held to the same standards which it expects of its responsible citizenry, to watch its pocketbook and pay the price if it does not. This is not government’s money. It is the People’s Money.

And while fiscal responsibility legislation may not be sexy or glamorous, it is a crucial ingredient in a recipe for a new governance culture. Weak fiscal responsibility legislation is like trying to bake a cake without turning on the oven. Flat, cold and the promise of something good that never materialised.

Muddying the LNG waters EDITOR, The Tribune.

I READ in your columns recently that the new LNG facility at Clifton Pier will be a “tri-fuel” facility. Apparently this means that Liquefied Natural Gas will be added to the already existing heavy polluting fuels that are used to power the BPL plant and other facilities located at the pier. So then, I have to ask, where on earth is the progress?

I was under the impression that the point of making this switch to LNG was to use a cleaner fuel and thereby reduce the terrible pollution that has gone unchecked in the area for decades. At times it is so bad that the entire surface of the water is covered in an awful smelling, brown sludge. I wonder if we have any idea at all what we have done to the environment,

the fisheries, etc. in that area.

The other aim was to use a fuel that is cheaper, thereby reducing the incredibly high electricity bill that we all pay in return for chronically terrible service and wholesale incompetence on the part of BPL. But now it turns out that all we are doing is only ‘adding’ LNG, which is itself a fossil fuel and not renewable, to the toxic mix of dangerous fuels that we have already relied on for far too long and which we have allowed to leak into the ground and the water for decades in such a shamefully irresponsible manner. LNG works very well in tandem with solar power and with wind, maybe even hydro power from the sea. Why did the government demand such an operation when it called

for proposals to upgrade BPL? To me, this seems like just more of the same, plus LNG on top. Meanwhile, the average Bahamian is still paying through the nose for electricity and suffering power cuts on a regular basis. And Lord only knows how many more years Clifton will continue to be polluted as a result.

You have to wonder, how did the government ever come to make this deal in the first place?

Will they ever release the agreement so we can see what is planned and how much we will have to pay for electricity? Apparently, the more things change, the more they stay the same.

ANITA JOHNSON Nassau, May 15, 2018.

The return of Christie?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

NATIONAL Review wrote that former Prime Minister Perry Christie is feeling vindicated after the official opening of Rosewood at Baha Mar on May 22. Rosewood has in its employment 450 persons. The entire Baha Mar Resort has over 4,000 employees, and is expected to hire an additional 1,000.

Hindsight being 20/20, the former Christie administration now appears to have made the right decision in the protracted legal wrangling between former Baha Mar developer Sarkis Izmirlian and the Chinese principals of CTF BM Holdings Limited.

With the IMF’s encouraging assessment of the Bahamian economy, due to the enormous economic influence Baha Mar is expected to have, Christie and other Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters are probably having an “I told you so” moment.

Christie’s presence at the ribbon cutting ceremony at Rosewood may have conjured up nostalgic memories of him being PLP leader to supporters of the party, especially the stalwart councillors who

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net had supported him unwaveringly for 20 years. Philip “Brave” Davis’ performance as PLP leader, since being elected last October, has been indifferent.

Last August, The Tribune published an article in which several PLP stalwart councillors described Davis’ leadership as “uninspiring.”

These card-carrying PLPs were backing Englerston MP Glenys Hanna-Martin in the PLP leadership race at convention.

According to The Tribune, these particular PLPs were supporters of Christie. I have seen nothing since then that would suggest that their view of Davis has changed.

Granted, Davis did win the PLP leadership election by a landslide. He couldn’t have done so without the support of Christie backers. But to many PLP stalwart councillors, Davis was the only feasible choice. The Christie Cabinet was nearly wiped out in the election. There weren’t that many options.

So far, the PLP under Davis has failed to gain

traction with its own people.

Despite the much-heralded Maureen Webber report blaming, among other things, apathy towards Christie among thousands of voters, I believe stalwart councillors of the party wouldn’t hesitate to re-elect the 74-year-old Christie.

These PLPs are that loyal to him.

The prospects of Christie reentering frontline politics seems highly unlikely. But it is not out of the realm of possibility. Malaysia’s current prime minister, Dr Mahathir Bin Mohammad, is 93. Christie would be about 78 in 2022. Stranger things have happened.

Bahamians have short memory. The Christie camp would undoubtedly be banking on this.

If Davis and Deputy Leader Chester Cooper fail to invigorate the PLP within the next three years, don’t be surprised if we witness the reemergence of Christie in 2021 or early 2022. It would be the stalwart councillors who would be the driving force behind the political resurrection of Christie.

KEVIN EVANS Freeport, GB May 24, 2018.

Understand it’s public service EDITOR, The Tribune.

I READ where a senior public servant recently hung up on a journalist who was asking a question on behalf of the public, after demanding to know how the reporter got his “private cell”.

If true, it is just further proof that we in The Bahamas need to step into the 21st century and recognise that the people are sovereign and that journalists are their defenders of their right to know. Specifically, senior public servants need

to shed their colonial arrogance, learn their place as employees of the people and stop acting like they are privileged members of society.

First of all, I seriously hope that the cell in question was not government issued. If it was, any member of the public, which pays for that phone, has a right to call it whenever they wish.

It should be impossible to disturb the public servant’s private time, because he should not be using his publicly-funded phone outside of office hours in the first

place. Or his car for that matter, but we see this going on every day.

Even if it was actually the director’s private phone, he remains a servant of the public, which also pays his salary, and as such is obliged to answer questions that are in the public interest. If he finds this too onerous, he should simply tender his resignation and be replaced by a more forward thinking, progressive official.

RICK JOHNSON Nassau, May 25, 2018.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, May 29, 2018, PAGE 5

Chipman demands probe into police shooting from page one “I am looking for a report where we can see justice in action,” he told reporters.

Police shot and killed 11 people last year.

Eight people have been fatally shot by officers so far this year.

According to reports issued by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Sunday, officers were responding to an armed robbery near East Street and Bethel Ground Corner when they travelled to McCullough Corner, and met Evans and another man sometime around 9.15am.

Police said the pair matched the description of suspects involved in that earlier robbery.

Those reports further indicated that one of the men produced a firearm. It is unclear whether Evans or the man he was standing with brandished the weapon.

The officers were reportedly in fear for their lives when they opened fire.

Evans was taken to Princess Margret Hospital where he later died.

Relatives maintained yesterday that he was not armed.

They also insist that he was searched by police on Sandy Lane, and shot during that process.

To that end, Mr Chipman said yesterday: “I am calling for a full report on the investigation into the shooting death of Deangelo Evans in the Masons Addition area.

“We have had quite a number of police shootings this year and it is time to put this in perspective.”

He continued: “All indications in Masons Addition show that it is just not enough to visit a family, and I am very happy to visit (and) go to a funeral, and have speeches or presentations. But we have to demand that our community remains safe and is protected by the full arms of justice.”

Mr Chipman said incidents like the Sunday shooting have pushed community-police relations back to less amicable times.

Referring to Mr Evans’ death, he said it requires both police and politicians to “live up” to their responsibilities and mandates of accountability and transparency.

“So as a member of parliament for this area I want to represent what is fair and what is just,” he said.

Likening his proposal to the United States’ Department of Justice, Mr Chipman said: “There are many cases in the United States where young men have been shot by officers and there is a Department of Justice that produces a full report, because what this does is it allows a community to heal.

“We are not saying one person is right. We are not pointing fingers.

CHIPPINGHAM MP Reece Chipman at the home of Deangelo Evans, who died on Sunday after being shot by police.

Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff “You know we have they can see what hap- the agency to collect nation- for a judicial inquest.

“We are saying that we wide data on interactions would like a full investiga- the body-cams that were, pened,” Mr Chipman said.

As of last year, there Commissioner The United States’ between law enforcement were some 28 police-related tion and a report so that our (Police community can heal and Anthony) Ferguson would Department, according to and civilians, including deaths that required an have indicated that we its official website, oper- police shootings and in-cus- inquest, most of which were heal properly.

“Also, it will help the had body-cams in Novem- ates across four mandates, tody deaths. “just there”, languishing Current legisla- in the system, according officers of officer involved ber. I am not sure if they namely to ensure fair and mandates all to Attorney General Carl in terms of bridging this gap were tested or if they are impartial administration of tion justice for all Americans. police-involved shootings Bethel. between the community in use.

“But, we want to know In October of 2016, are investigated by Her and the police relationWhen interviewed by The if body-cams were being following several police Majesty’s Coroner. ships,” he added.

Tribune on the problem late Following that process, last year, Mr Bethel could “So we want this report worn so that we could know involved shootings, US so that we are able to know, whether or not this family, Attorney General Loretta the matter would be trans- not say how far back the who is grieving at this time, Lynch announced plans for ferred to Coroner’s Court outstanding matters went. well, was the police called?

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

PAGE 6, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

Family’s fury over boat death verdict from page one RBDF patrol vessel.

He died from blunt force trauma to his body. A cousin of his, Keno Turnquest, was on the vessel as well but jumped off before the collision, ultimately surviving the crash.

The Turnquests were represented by attorney Murrio Ducille during the inquest.

“I feel like I’ve lost my son, my Christopher, all over again,” Mrs Turnquest said yesterday. “I feel angry. The legal system has failed me and the defence force has gotten away with another ‘accidental’ murder.”

She claimed the investigation process “was botched from the beginning,” arguing the Central Detective Unit (CDU) of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) “did not do a proper investigation.”

“The only evidence they were able to present in court was taking pictures,” she claimed. “Any five-year old with a cell phone could have taken pictures. This incident happened in busy Nassau Harbour but the police did not come up with even one witness who had seen or heard it happen.

They were given leads by family and friends, none of which they ever followed up.”

“Justice has not been served,” she insisted. “My son died at the hands of the government agency who is supposed to make the waterways safe. Instead of justice, he has been blamed for his own death, much like you blame a woman

THE FAMILY of Christopher Turnquest, above, pictured at a previous hearing delay and, right, Mr Turnquest, who died in 2016. who wears a mini skirt for her rape. Both officers on the boat that night admit that they never even saw his small boat. One of these officers was the look-out.

Why wasn’t he looking-out?

They claim that weather conditions were bad and visibility poor.”

The Turnquests believe defence force officers were speeding in the harbour.

“I feel like the verdict was decided before the trial ever began,” Mrs Turnquest said, questioning the jury selection process. “My family and I were mocked and each day in court there were jokes and laughter at our expense.”

“Even though it was purported that the jury made the final decision, in the end, they were told what

decision to make,” she claimed. “The judge gave them the impression that whatever the RBDF officers said was gospel. It was implied that because they all had the same story they were telling the truth. It was also implied that they were experts on maritime physics yet court records show that none of them claimed to know how to translate land speed into nautical miles.

On the other hand, (the coroner) basically told them that the witnesses for Christopher were either biased or lying.”

Romona FarquharsonSeymour represented the RBDF officers in the matter.

Last night she said after Mr Ducille invited jurors to conclude that manslaughter by negligence occurred, they rejected that with good reason.

“What could not be denied was the dinghy that the Turnquests were on, Christopher and his cousin Keno, it had no lights,” she said. “In fact it was not even rigged for lights. It occurred the 2nd of October 2016, Hurricane Matthew was on its way, there was also another depression. They were out in the harbour, no lights, it was dark, cloudy, it was rough around 8pm to 11pm at night and they were frankly not seen.”

Mrs Farquharson-Seymour said Keno Turnquest gave inconsistent testimony during the police investigation of the incident. She said he first told investigators he saw a red light on the RBDF vessel, which would indicate all other vessels were required to stop and allow the defence force vessel to pass; later, she said, he told investigators he saw a green light.

“Under cross examination he had to accept that the first statement he gave he said red, that red and

green are very distinct colours and not ones you would mix up and so I put the suggestion to him that it was only after through talking to other people and finding out that ‘listen if you saw a red light you were supposed to do certain things’ that then his statements change,” she said.

“The jury was privy to all of this and he accepted he gave the two different statements to the police.”

Mrs Farquharshon-Seymour said she does not know if the Turnquests can successfully appeal the ruling.

“As I summed up to the jury, often times when these tragedies occur, people want to blame someone. It’s just really unfortunate that the Turnquests from the facts it can be gleaned or said that they were the authors of their own demise and that’s the sad thing about it. Really they should not have been out there. I fear that where ever they go the evidence won’t change. The officers had no axe to grind.

No one knew the family and these are hard-working men. In fact, they were in a rescue boat. They had just done a rescue mission.”

READERS REACT TO NEW TAX ALERT AFTER Opposition Leader Philip Davis predicted an increase in VAT, Customs duties and the introduction of new taxes in the upcoming budget, readers gave their reaction on tribune242.com.

John said: “Let’s just hope this is political hogwash and no new taxes will be saddled on the backs of Bahamians. Many who are currently drowning in debt cannot take it.

The expected increase in government revenue may actually be a decline.”

Well_mudda_take_ sic raised the issue of raises for parliamentarians: “Davis conveniently neglects to mention that

Minnis and Turnquest will also be budgeting for a huge increase in the salaries and benefits of parliamentarians, if not in the upcoming 2018/19 budget then in the very next set of budget adjustments that follow. Minnis and his Cabinet ministers have all too quickly become an ‘all for us’ bunch of politicians on par with the last Christieled government.”

That prompted this

response from DDK: “If the FNM gives Parliamentarians a raise and hikes taxes they can DEFINITELY kiss a second term goodbye. Parliamentarians should show solidarity with the voters by taking salary and benefit CUTS, at least until such time as there is a marked improvement in the Bahamian economy for all those who are prepared to work for a living. Pensions for MPs and PMs should be entirely eliminated. Pensions for ANY civil servants should be on a contribution basis.”

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

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, May 29, 2018, PAGE 7

‘Blacklist over - but we must be wary of more EU pressure’

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net SENATOR Dion Foulkes yesterday forecast the country would soon face more pressures from the European Union and should be ready to act quickly to avoid further reputational damage.

On Friday, Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest announced the Bahamas had been removed from the European Union’s “blacklist” of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes based on “excellent coordination” with a technical working group, assembled by the government to address the scenario.

The country was moved to Annex 2, commonly referred to as the grey list, and has until the end of 2018 to fulfil its commitments.

In December 2017, the country agreed to join the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) initiative but was blacklisted in March 2018.

According to Mr Foulkes, who is also Labour Minister, the Europeans are using their collective economic and financial strength to compel compliance with their initiatives.

These are designed to recover any taxes which might be lost to their ministries of finance, due to the operations of tax havens and offshore financial services centres, he said.

“Many Bahamians justifiably ask why do we accept such unrestrained exercise of extraterritorial power by the EU; why do we comply? The short answer is that ‘we must comply’,” Mr Foulkes said in the Senate yesterday. Senators are now on the second reading and committal of the Multi-National Entities

SENATOR DION FOULKES, Minister of Labour.

Financial Reporting Bill 2018.

“Just as when the USA implemented the Foreign Accounts Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) in 2014, the whole world was forced to implement the automatic exchange of tax information on all US citizens who held bank accounts either in their own names or in a company registered in a foreign country. The untrammelled power and financial strength of the USA was enough to compel all to comply.

“The PLP, who were in government at that time, duly complied along with the rest of the world.

Because failure to comply would have resulted in the

imposition of harsh ‘counter-measures’ by the US, and the loss of the ability to utilise international wire transferring mechanisms such as the SWIFT system which is controlled by the US. “For any country, the loss of such privileges and the imposition of economic sanctions would have had a disastrous impact, much more so on a small and open economy such as The Bahamas, where more than 90 percent of our tourists come from the USA. “The Europeans have similar powers as the USA in the financial services arena. Hence, a blacklisting could easily have resulted in the loss of correspondent

Photo: Lionel Smith banking relations, where banks abroad - and particularly in Europe - could easily have decided to take “de-risking measures” by shutting off commercial relations with banks and financial institutions located in The Bahamas, on the basis that The Bahamas is a ‘risky jurisdiction’.”

He continued: “If correspondent banks in Europe were to stop taking deposits of money or payments made from The Bahamas, the effect would be exactly the same as if we were cut off from the SWIFT system by the USA; namely, that money could not go out of or come into The Bahamas by a wire transfer.

“Business would come

to a screeching halt and the economic damage would be devastating and longlasting. These are the harsh realities of today’s world. It is all about tax collection.

Period.”

Regarding the MultiNational Entities Financial Reporting Bill 2018, Mr Foulkes said the legislation imposes what is called “Country by Country” reporting requirements on entities registered or incorporated in The Bahamas that are “constituent entities” in a Multi-National Entities (MNE) international business structure. If the head office of the MNE or parent is a company in The Bahamas then it must report.

He told the Senate this Bill enjoys wide support from the financial services sector because it is designed to have a very limited impact, meaning it applies only to MNE entities in The Bahamas which are a part of the Companies Structure of a Multinational Corporation such as IBM, EXXON, Google and others, which earns an Annual Gross Turnover in excess of $850 million.

So a Bahamian company or Parent Company which is a part of a MNE or transnational Company which earns gross turnover of less than $850m each year would be entirely unaffected by this law, Mr Foulkes said.

PAGE 8, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

The Birdman of The Bahamas Face to Face

By FELICITY INGRAHAM

M

ETELLUS Chipman is no stranger to the world of culture and entertainment in The Bahamas. He is a young, talented entrepreneur who has made a name for himself with his flair for our culture. He stands on the great shoulders of his mother and grandparents, whose contribution to culture in this country is immeasurable. He is known as a fun-loving, outgoing individual who is always ready to entertain guests at his Arawak Cay stall. But Metellus says many people don’t know the real him – a family man who spends most of his spare time in his backyard tending to his fruit trees, vegetable and flowering plants and breeding his beloved birds – pigeons.

I had the same reaction many have when they first hear about his hobby: “Pigeons?”

Yes, pigeons. Healthy, beautiful pigeons from around the world are at home in Metellus’ backyard.

He taught me to appreciate these birds in a whole new way. As president of a group of 30 pigeon breeders called the “The Pigeon Nation”, he’s on a mission to get kids in the inner city off the streets and into a hobby that could steer them in the right path towards future success.

He knows that one by one, if we continue to invest in programmes like these, we can offer young people viable solutions to today’s vexing social ills and create a more prosperous nation in the future.

Pigeon breeding is very much a part of Bahamian culture, he contends: “Every Bahamain person knows someone that keeps pigeons.

It’s a part of our culture. I grew up doing it, my father and uncles grew up doing it, and they are in their 60s and 70s… so how many generations of Bahamians have been raising pigeons?

If you have a company bringing 40ft containers of pigeon feed into this country, it indicates that a large population of pigeons are here.”

“If you put your time into it, you will get something back.

I come home in the evening, I sit down in my bird cage and relax.

I have learned to live healthier from taking care of them.

I have to give my birds organic apple cider vinegar and cod liver oil constantly to keep them healthy. They can get the cold, just like us.

I have to give them organic, non-gmo grains and so I learned to eat that way too.”

I sat face to face in the bird cage with Metellus as he proudly showed off about 100 pigeons including the Indian Fantail, German and English Trumpeters, Hungarians, the local rock dove, and a unique home-bred species his group calls the “Bahamian Kingbop”. They have a range of beautiful colours and some with interesting attributes like hooded eyes and feathered feet. For those concerned about the noise, these birds actually make a lovely cooing sound that sounded calming as we sat for the interview.

Metellus recalled a childhood memory that stuck with him. As a young boy, he was skating home with a pigeon in hand. He fell, but kept his hand up and kept the bird safe. He realised that having

METELLUS CHIPMAN, pictured with Mike Tyson, left, with members of the Pigeon Nation, above, and with one of his birds, top right. He is pictured below during his Mr Bahamas and Mr Caribbean days. president of the group, it home for his birds. Then, TG Glover Primary School starts with me. It’s time for he will seek to establish an before moving on to Miami all of us to grow.” after school programme Jackson Senior High and “My wife says, either you and provide transport for then Youngstown Uniare to work or in your bird inner city children to come versity in Ohio, where he cage, but at least she knows out to the farm and care played football and earned where I am. It’s a business for the birds. Kids just love a bachelor’s degree in fine and a mental release. I can the birds, he says, adding art. He loves to paint and is come on the back here and that an 11-year-old won a also a well-known dancer, sit; I am off the streets not recent local competition. but rarely has the time bothering anyone, and I There are other bird clubs for those in this season some- can get my kids involved in in the country, and they of his life. He is also a something positive. It also interact with them as well trained masseuse, but is thing to care for helps my family financially. and purchase other breeds mostly spending time at his makes kids more conscien- The other day I sold a pair they don’t have. Bird keep- Arawak Cay stall where he tious, responsible and careful of fan feathers for $200. So ing, he said, is yet another sells sky juice and coconut in their own lives. He now ten pairs of quality birds can extension of Bahamian water fresh from the nut.

He won the Mr Carwants to pass on his love for help pay your bills. Every- culture.

It’s in his DNA to be an ibbean competition in the birds to yet another gen- one has a hobby. This is our eration, with a focus on the hobby. You should spend ambassador for culture. His Jamaica representing his grandfather, the legendary country, beating out neighinner city youths that often time with what you love.”

The Pigeon Nation is John “Chippie” Chipman bouring countries for the have too much idle time is nearing 90 years old and top prize. He also won during after school hours. gaining new members by is still going strong, the Mr World Bahamas If they can get into a hobby freely giving a pair of birds to young still working as competition in 2007 and that could generate income, people whose a performer. represented The Bahamas more young people susceptiparents His style in China, where he won ble to the street life would be permit them of drum the talent competition. His interested in being involved to start beating dance was an ode to “The in something positive. Metel- taking care is known Obeah Man” the late Tony lus says even criminals have of them. to evoke McKay, a performance a love for animals and can be Members emothat stole the hearts of the better rehabilitated this way. make a tion and judges.

“I used to be in the club, home visit represent Pondering on great culpartying and having fun, and help a stirring tural giants like McKay and but then I met my wife and with guidance display of his grandfather, he mused: I settled down,” he shares. on building the African and “There are so many cultural “I am a simple person. cage and caring for Lucayan heritage. leaders out there. The same I love nature, love to help the birds, including advisChippie has performed way how we have big bulpeople, and I stay humble. I ing visits to a veterinarian. around the world repre- letin boards with our track am 6ft 2in and 250 pounds. The success of their club senting the country, and stars on them, we should I could be aggressive, but ensures that more varieties is patriarch to a large have our cultural giants on that’s not the right way of pigeons are available on family which has con- billboards. Kids today want to go about life. I have the island. Bahamians can tributed much in various to be the next reggae or to set an example and as be found taking their birds sectors of society, including pop star because that’s all to the US and as far away Mp Reece Chipman and they are hearing or seeing. as Germany for competi- former MP Hubert Chip- But with Bahamian culture, tions. The goal is to attract man. His grandmother, they can make a living. We international judges to the late Rebecca “Becky” need to make it lucrative. come to The Bahamas for Chipman was adored as When they see they can a competition. The club the queen of fire dance make a living from it, they held its third successful and Goombay in her day. will get interested in it.” local showing and judging His mother, Mitzie Chip“God gave me the idea on Arawak Cay on Sunday. man, followed in her to start this group and I see The club includes breeders mother’s footsteps as an it changing lives. Someone in Eleuthera and Ragged extraordinary entertainer, who was on drugs; someone Island, where some bakers having performed with her who lost his wife; someone on the island prefer pigeon mother from as far back as in a wheelchair, all rehaeggs to make their cakes a 1969 during the Goombay bilitating themselves while little fluffier.

Summer, a Bahamian fes- doing something they love.

Metellus was awarded tival of highlighting local He gave me the vision and crown land and is utilising it culture, food and music.

I am fulfilling it and I see it to create a farm and a new Metellus first attended changing lives.”

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, May 29, 2018, PAGE 9

Ziggy played with cars

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net AN eastern New Providence resident is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Ziggy the cat, whose curious penchant for indiscriminately “inspecting” other people’s vehicles may have finally caught up with him.

Leandra Esfakis, of the Winton area, is offering a reward for Ziggy, who went missing sometime during Whit Monday, following some five years of letting himself into other people’s vehicles in his neighbourhood.

According to Ms Esfakis, Ziggy is the official “Other’s People’s Vehicle (OPV)” inspector of his area. His

jurisdiction is her entire driveway and the whole road where both he and Ms Esfakis live.

Ziggy, true to his calling, makes it a habit to get into any vehicle that has a door or a window open, occupied or not. Or sometimes, Ziggy decides to just sit on top of the vehicle — any vehicle — until it drives off.

To date, Ziggy has “inspected” trucks cabs, taxis, public utility vehicles, plumber vans, electrician vans, Hondas, Kias, Nissans and even a Porsche.

On one on two occasions, drivers have discovered him after they would have left the area and brought him back to his owner.

And notwithstanding his

escapades, Ziggy has managed to faithfully attend breakfast and supper times for the last five years and has not strayed.

Last Monday, however, he disappeared.

Ms Esfakis now fears Ziggy may have gotten into a car, been found and then left somewhere and now can’t find his way back home.

Ms Esfakis said she has combed all of the bushes in the nearby area with her dogs, but said they didn’t find Ziggy or any signs that he might have been in an accident.

“I hope he turns up or he’s in good hands,” she said.

Anyone with information on Ziggy can contact Ms Esfakis at 422-3248.

ZIGGY the cat who is missing from the Winton area.

HENFIELD’S ‘NO’ ON SPY BILL VOTE from page one

yesterday. For the record, I have no intention to abstain or vote in favor of this Bill. ‘Those who are opposed, will say nay’… ”NAY.” A matter of conscience.”

He appeared to address the matter on Facebook as well, writing the hashtag “#VotingNoToTheBill”.

The Facebook post said: “Genuine concern pushes you into activism. Activism pushes you into nationalism. Nationalism forces you into politics. Politics makes you anxious for your imminent return to private life.”

Mr Henfield did not respond to The Tribune’s

RANARD Henfield pictured during the Black Friday march in 2016. request for comment before press time yesterday.

As one of the bill’s loudest critics last year, he warned it could have dire consequences for privacy rights in the country.

In a Facebook post on February 20, 2017, he said:

“…You wouldn’t even know that they are reading the emails between you and your spouse, your business partners, your clients, your bank, your doctor or viewing your family pictures. How do we know our personal

information won’t be leaked to embarrass people, put them at risk or to victimise them?”

“If you refuse to give up your password, unlock your phone or computer you will be arrested. We see now where the PLP wants to take this country! Will the FNM, DNA or UPM repeal this Bill if elected?

Ask your candidates publicly so we know who not to replace these animal farm characters with!”

After the Christie administration shelved the bill, he said in another Facebook post last year: “While this may seem like a victory for all of us that spoke up, stood up and are prepared to march, let us not for a moment think the

government will not try and bring this bill up again before elections or after elections if they win. Stay ready to apply even more pressure if they refuse to take our suggests and amendments over the next few years.”

After the Free National Movement’s general election victory last year, he indicated on Facebook that the Minnis administration’s failure to “scrap the spy bill” would be among a number of actions that would prompt another protest from his group.

Because the We March movement was painted as apolitical, critics have been quick to highlight when Mr Henfield has been soft on the Minnis administration after hammering its

predecessor.

In a press statement last week, Rights Bahamas President Stephanie St. Fleur called on “MPs Adrian Gibson, Elsworth Johnson and Romauld Ferreira, who all worked with Rights Bahamas in the past, as well as Senator Ranard Henfield of We March… (to) support us in protecting our citizens’ privacy - which they so strongly opposed back when it was a PLP initiative.”

Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis also opposed the Interception of Communication bill last year. However, since his administration’s push to pass the bill, he has not publicly revisited his prior criticism.

PAGE 10, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

Environmentalists say no to Oban plan for oil refinery

By FARRAH JOHNSON

A HOST of environmental groups have formed an alliance to appeal to the government to reject moves for offshore drilling and to abandon the planned Oban oil refinery in Grand Bahama.

Non-profit organisation Save the Bays (STB), along with the newly formed Environmental Alliance (EA) are pleading with the government to consider the impact oil drilling would have on the marine ecosystem.

Environmental Alliance makes representation for environmental advocacy groups including Bahamas 350 Climate Action, Bahamas Plastics Movement, reEarth, Raising Awareness Bahamas Landfill (RABL), Rise Bahamas, and the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF).

Save the Bays chairman Joseph Darville said the government runs the risk of becoming “an enemy of the environment”, if they carry on with their current habits regarding fossil fuels.

He questioned whether the FNM administration has lived up to its pre-election promises in a press statement, in which he criticized several upcoming projects he predicts will prolong the country’s dependence on petroleum products.

“The Oban oil refinery in Grand Bahama, an LNG plant at Clifton – instead of moving us away from dangerous, polluting petroleum products, this government seems to be entrenching The Bahamas in a longterm reliance on the curse

THE PRESS event for the signing of the Oban deal - although the government later said this was a ceremonial event, not the actual signing. of fossil fuels. This is the understand and accept the plant deal asserting the waste, the contamination set out in our laws, failure opposite of what Dr Minnis need for new projects,” he area needs “remedia- of groundwater and the to commission an EIA prior and his colleagues said on said, “in particular those tion” rather than “further water lens, the impact to to signing of the agreement, the campaign trail,” he that will create employment development”. seabed, corals, mangroves provision to allow project said. opportunities, but develThe Environmental and fisheries, noise from to proceed notwithstanding “I sincerely hope that opment must be pursued Alliance echoed these operating machinery, the EIA, policy implications, as this new proposal for both responsibly and pro- sentiments in their open potential impacts to bio- The Bahamas has several offshore drilling in our gressively, with an eye to letter to Prime Minister Dr diversity and ecosystem national policies and interprecious waters is outright creating the kind of society Hubert Minnis. The group services, and the impacts national agreements it has rejected. If not, this FNM future generations of Baha- called on the FNM admin- on The Bahamas’ ability to signed on to, and finally, government, despite all of mians would be proud to istration to address pressing mitigate and adapt to cli- the impacts to existing its promises, could end up live in.” environmental, social, and mate change.” multilateral environmental going down in history as yet Mr Darville insisted the transparency issues that The letter is also appeal- agreements.” another administration that government should decline have produced environ- ing for the government to EA questioned how the turned out to be an enemy the Oban deal, due to the mental concerns. speak to “working condi- proposed Oban project will of the environment,” Mr major risk it poses on the Explaining their mission tions of employees at plant, fall in line with environmenDarville continued. marine ecosystem of East is to ensure the government the access to management tal safety, and insisted that While the STB chairman Grand Bahama. “rejects and discontin- jobs of the Bahamian work the government reveal the commended the FNM for He added the govern- ues” projects that have the force, a long term economic “social benefits for those announcing a ban on single- ment should not grant any potential to harm the Baha- viability of the project, immediately impacted, the use plastics, Mr Darville licences for offshore oil mian ecosystem, the group minimal penalties for envi- economic viability, the full said there is still grave con- drilling, because it could be described themselves as ronmental damage, and operational compliance cern for the government’s the “death knell” for the advocates of “compre- the expense and delay of with Bahamian legislation, inability to present a “cred- marine environment. hensive environmental recourse to civil proceed- government adherence to ible plan for transitioning to The chairman also protection legislation.” ings for redress.” any ensuing court orders, as renewables”. called for the reversal of In this light, EA are callIn terms of transparency, well as the alignment with “Environmentalists the Clifton LNG power ing on the government to the EA is requesting that the National Development address: “Air emissions, the FNM address: “The Plan which seeks to take the handling and process failure to hold prior con- our nation to an environof wastewater, the handling sultation with stakeholders, mentally and economically of hazardous materials and failure to follow the process sustainable future”.

www.ub.edu.bs

CAREER OPPORTUNITY SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Suitably qualified candidates are invited to submit applications for the following position available at University of The Bahamas:General Counsel, who will serve as the chief legal officer of the University of The Bahamas’ system, and provide legal guidance and counsel in executive and policy decision-making to the Board of Trustees and senior leadership. Among the duties and responsibilities are: • Managing the University’s legal representation in all litigation and administrative proceedings; • Providing counsel and advice concerning compliance with laws of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas and all UB Act statutes and regulations affecting tertiary education, including preventative legal services and legal representation in monitoring and resolving disputes that may lead to litigation; • Subject to direction of the Board of Trustees and President, resolving all legal claims and initiating and appealing all lawsuits and administrative proceedings; • Managing outside counsel budgets, issuing contracts for legal services and retaining outside counsel on behalf of all University units; • Providing administrative leadership to the Board of Trustees in litigation reviews; • Serving as attorney to the Board of Trustees in legal matters and communicating legal issues and concerns to the attention of the Trustees, President, and senior leaders; • Reviewing all Board resolutions and policies for form and legality.

Among the essential qualifications are at least 10 years of experience as a practicing attorney in a sophisticated environment such as a large law firm, government agency, university, non-profit organization or corporation and a J.D. LLB and /or LLM degree from an accredited law school. Proven success in providing legal guidance in the context of complex organizations and a deeply held commitment to, and belief in, the value of collaborative decision-making are also essential.

A detailed position announcement is available online at: http://www.ub.edu.bs/about-us/career-opportunities/ .

Applicants should electronically submit via hrapply@ub.edu.bs, to the attention of the Vice President, Human Resources the following documents

by Thursday, 31st May, 2018: • A completed University of The Bahamas Application for Employment (available at (www.ub.edu.bs/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Applicationfor-Employment-Staff.pdf); • A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments relevant to the position; • Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume; and • The names and contact information of three professional references

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, May 29, 2018, PAGE 11

SOME of the recently detained migrants being loaded onto a bus after being captured.

Migrants told ‘we cannot support you’

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net THE Chief Magistrate yesterday scolded the 25 Haitian nationals caught trying enter the country illegally over the weekend, telling them: “We cannot support you.”

Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt told the 25 people — 15 women (one pregnant) and ten men, that they should take “this business of coming to The Bahamas illegally seriously” and “do not come”.

The chief magistrate further stated it was “not wise” to have taken a “risk” on their lives in making the voyage from Haiti to New Providence, noting that anything could have happened to the group while at sea.

And now having been caught, the chief magistrate said they were potentially facing imprisonment for two years, in a country unknown to them and away from their families.

“Haiti is familiar to you,” Chief Magistrate FergusonPratt said. “The Bahamas is not familiar.

“We cannot support you.”

The 25 Haitian nationals, with birthdates ranging from 1961 to 1998, were each arraigned on a single count off illegal landing, contrary to section 19(1) and punishable under section 19(2) of the Immigration Act. It was alleged that on May 27, they were found in Venice Bay, New Providence, having landed from a place outside The

Bahamas without leave of an immigration officer.

According to a Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) statement, shortly after midnight on Sunday, a 35-foot Haitian sloop made landfall off Venice Bay, south New Providence.

As a result of a combined effort between police, immigration and RBDF officials, 26 migrants were captured, who were turned over to Immigration officials for further processing.

All 25 Haitian nationals pleaded guilty to the charge, which was read to to them with the assistance of an interpreter.

After having done so, the chief magistrate asked Chief Immigration Officer Sloane Smith and fellow immigration officer Ursula Oliver what the maximum

penalty was for such a charge, and Ms Oliver responded by saying a $300 fine of two years in prison.

Chief Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt then asked the group to give her their recommendations on what their punishments should be.

One responded by saying that he/she doesn’t have any money. Another responded by saying they don’t have anything.

When questioned by the chief magistrate if they paid someone to make the voyage from Haiti to The Bahamas, most responded by saying they didn’t pay to come. One of them said the boat was transferring him to a Family Island from Haiti.

One of the women, Camilise Luna, indicated

that she wasn’t feeling well, and that her legs were hurting. One of the men, Marc Vidanet, said his legs were hurting.

Luna, as well as some of the others, claimed they told the local doctor of their respective ailments but were not given anything.

However, they said they were given something to eat while in custody.

Nonetheless, Chief Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt said The Bahamas is not in a position to accept illegal immigrants from any country, and recommended that they all be returned to their country “as soon as is reasonably practicable”.

She also gave them a conditional discharge pursuant to Section 209 of the Penal Code on the condition that they do not return to the

country illegally.

In response to the chief magistrate’s decision, the group collectively said “Merci”, or thank you.

Chief Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt also ordered that The names of the other Haitian nationals are as followed: Sandelar Barbella Pierre; Rosemarie Camelius; Galcy Jean; Teasha Joseph; Francois Rpudine; Rosemline Alphonce; Camilise Luna; Darlene Bellot; Sheila Antwan; Emmanuel Vincent; Daniel Louis; Fedner Camilis; Maxime Marckensy; Semelus Jordony; Destinae Wochnel; Mauricette Rodrigue; John Elizard; Safaite Joseph; Kenneth Dicenor; Mareis Mackenson; Marc Vidanet; Edrice Feheloh; Alin Alde; Evelyse Joseph; and Anel Francois.

PAGE 12, Tuesday, May 29, 2018

FORMER US PRESIDENT IN HOSPITAL

BIDDEFORD, Maine (AP) — Former President George HW Bush was hospitalised on Sunday in Maine after he experienced low blood pressure and fatigue, a spokesman said.

Just after 2pm, Jim McGrath, a spokesman for the 93-year-old Bush, said he was awake, alert and not in any discomfort. He said Bush would spend at least a few days in the hospital for observation.

Bush was taken to Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford. A spokeswoman said on Sunday all information would be released by the Bush family.

Bush arrived in Maine for the summer on May 20. Coming about a month after the death of his wife, Barbara, of 73 years, the family said the 41st president was eager to return to the family compound on Walker’s Point. He has visited every summer since childhood, the only exception being the years of his World War II service.

On Saturday, Bush attended a pancake breakfast at an American Legion post in Kennebunkport.

He had been scheduled to attend a Memorial Day parade in the town yesterday.

Bush, who has a form of Parkinson’s disease and a history of pneumonia and other infections, was hospitalised in Houston on April 22, the day after his wife’s funeral, for an infection. He remained hospitalised for 13 days.

CHINA APPROVES TRADEMARKS FOR IVANKA TRUMP SHANGHAI (AP) — Ivanka Trump’s brand continues to win foreign trademarks in China and the Philippines, adding to questions about conflicts of interest at the White House.

On Sunday, China granted the first daughter’s company final approval for its 13th trademark in the last three months, trademark office records show.

Over the same period, the Chinese government has granted Ivanka Trump’s company provisional approval for another eight trademarks, which can be finalised if no objections are raised during a three-month comment period.

Taken together, the trademarks could allow her brand to market a lifetime’s worth of products in China, from baby blankets to coffins, and a host of things in between, including perfume, make-up, bowls, mirrors, furniture, books, coffee, chocolate and honey. Ivanka Trump stepped back from management of her brand and placed its assets in a familyrun trust, but she continues to profit from the business.

Chinese officials have emphasised that all trademark applications are in accordance with the law.

TEACHER CHARGED AT SCHOOL SHOOTER NOBLESVILLE, Indianapolis (AP) — A suburban Indianapolis teacher who was shot while tackling and disarming a student inside his classroom said yesterday that his swift decisions “were the only acceptable actions” to save his seventh-grade students.

Jason Seaman, speaking publicly for the first time since the shooting on Friday, thanked the Noblesville community for its support and stressed that he wanted the focus to be on the other person shot during the incident: 13-year-old student Ella Whistler, who was seriously wounded.

“Her courage and strength at such a young age is nothing short of remarkable,” Seaman said.

Seaman is credited with stopping an armed student who entered his classroom at Noblesville West Middle School. Witnesses said the 29-year-old former college football player ran toward bullets as he tackled the student. Seaman was shot three times, according to his brother.

THE TRIBUNE

THE LAST STRAW FOR EU ON PLASTIC POLLUTION BRUSSELS Associated Press

THE European Union has proposed banning plastic products like cotton buds, straws, stirs and balloon sticks when alternatives are easily available in an attempt to reduce litter spoiling beaches and ocean beds.

The European Commission said its proposal would seek to cut marine litter in half for the ten most prominent items and avoid environmental damage estimated at over

$250bn over the next dozen years.

EU Vice President Frans Timmermans said that utensils would not be banned completely, but steps would be taken to have them made out of sustainable materials when possible.

“You can still organise a picnic, drink a cocktail and clean your ears just like before,” Timmermans said.

He also made new proposals to ensure that it is the polluter that pays.

The proposal will be assessed by the EU parliament and member

states but Timmermans hopes to see results before May 2019.

And unlike so many EU proposals that are immediately criticised by consumer and environmental groups as too little too late, the reaction was largely positive on Monday.

“The only way to stop plastics pouring into our oceans is to turn off the flow at its source: production,” said Lasse Gustavsson, the European executive director of the environmental group Oceana, as he lauded the initiative.

European Green Party lawmaker Monica Frassoni also welcomed the initiative and added that “the scale of the problem means that we cannot rely on individual European countries to take action and must instead find a Europe-wide response.”

The European Parliament has said that plastics production is now 20 times higher than in 1960s.

The EU has also been spurred into action by China’s decision to no longer import part of the bloc’s waste.

FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron, left, meets Mamoudou Gassama, 22, from Mali, at the presidential Elysee Palace in Paris, yesterday.

Photo: Thibault Camus/AP

‘Spider-Man’ migrant hailed for saving toddler PARIS Associated Press PRESIDENT Emmanuel Macron on Monday lauded as a hero a migrant from Mali who scaled an apartment building to save a child dangling from a balcony, and rewarded the young man’s bravery with an offer of French citizenship and a job as a firefighter.

“Bravo,” Macron said to 22-year-old Mamoudou Gassama during a meeting in a gilded room of the presidential Elysee Palace where Gassama also received a gold medal from the French state for “courage and devotion”.

Gassama climbed five stories up the apartment building, moving from balcony to balcony, and whisked a four-year-old boy to safety on Saturday night as a crowd below screamed.

His actions went viral on social media, where he was dubbed “Spider-Man”.

Gassama said he has authorisation to stay legally in Italy, which is where he landed in Europe in 2014 after a more than a year in Libya and a trip across the Mediterranean Sea. He came to France in September to join his older brother, who has lived in France for decades.

Dressed in tattered blue

jeans and white shirt, the young man recounted for the president what took place after he and some friends saw a young child hanging from a fifth-floor balcony.

“I ran. I crossed the street to save him,” Gassama told Macron. He said he didn’t think twice. “When I started to climb, it gave me courage to keep climbing.”

God “helped me,” too, he said. “Thank God I saved him.”

Gassama said he trembled with fear only after he had reached the boy, gotten him safely back over the balcony railing and taken him inside the apartment.

The father of the child was detained overnight for alleged parental neglect, and is to appear in court in September. He left the child alone while he shopped, then lingered to play Pokemon Go, prosecutor Francois Molins told BFMTV. The whereabouts of the child’s mother were unclear.

“You saved a child. Without you, no one knows what would have become of him,” the president said.

“You need courage and the capability to do that.”

Macron offered to begin the naturalisation process to make Gassama a French citizen and said, “Because this is an exceptional act ... we are obviously, today,

IN this Saturday, May 26, 2018 grab taken from video, Mamoudou Gassama, left, scales an apartment building to save a young child, circled, dangling from a balcony, in Paris.

The special treatment going to regularise all your The French president for Gassama comes as said Gassama’s actions papers.”

Macron is behind a bill authorities prepare to made him deserving of spesome 2,400 cial treatment. Working as a toughening French immi- evacuate from make- firefighter corresponds with gration law, and he stressed migrants there is no contradiction shift encampments in the his skills, said Macron, who between rewarding Gas- French capital. The forced opened the door for him to sama for his act of bravery closure of the encamp- do just that. and working to prevent ments is the subject of a “You have become an migrants from entering heated debate between the example because millions France illegally by stopping Paris mayor, who wants to have seen you” on social the stream of arrivals at its ensure the uprooted will media, the president said. be sheltered, and Interior source.

Another Malien, Lassana “An exceptional act does Minister Gerard Collomb, Bathily, was given French not make policy,” he told who was present Monday citizenship in January reporters later, vowing to at the Elysee.

2015, shortly after he saved Gassama told Macron he lives by hiding people in a maintain a policy that is “exigent, respectful of our was arrested and beaten freezer and alerting police principles” on asylum and during his long rough stay during a terror attack on a “rigorous” regarding the in Libya, “but I wasn’t Jewish grocery where he discouraged.” migratory flux. worked.

STARBUCKS INCIDENT PUTS RACISM IN SPOTLIGHT

By TERRY TANG Associated Press STARBUCKS, trying to put to rest an outcry over the arrest of two black men at one of its stores, is closing more than 8,000 stores for an afternoon of anti-bias training, a strategy some believe can keep racism at bay.

After the arrests in Philadelphia last month, the coffee chain’s leaders apologised and met with the two men, but also reached out to activists and experts in bias training to put together a curriculum for its 175,000 workers.

That has put a spotlight on the little-known world of “unconscious bias training”, which is used by many corporations, police departments and other organisations to help address racism in the workplace. The training is typically designed to get people to open up about implicit biases and stereotypes in encountering people of colour, gender or

other identities.

The Perception Institute, a consortium of researchers consulting with Starbucks, defines implicit bias as attitudes — positive or negative — or stereotypes someone has toward a person or group without being conscious of it. A common example, according to some of its studies, is a tendency for white people to unknowingly associate black people with criminal behaviour.

Many retailers including Walmart and Target said they already offer some racial bias training. Target says it plans to expand that training. Nordstrom has said it plans to enhance its training after issuing an apology to three black teenagers in Missouri who employees falsely accused of shoplifting.

Anti-bias sessions can incorporate personal reflections, explorations of feelings and mental exercises. But one expert says training of this kind can have the opposite effect if

people feel judged.

According to a video previewing the Starbucks training, there will be recorded remarks from Starbucks executives and rapper/activist Common.

From there, employees will “move into a real and honest exploration of bias” where, in small groups, they can share how the issue comes up in their daily work life.

Starbucks has described it as a “collaborative and engaging experience for store partners to learn together”.

Developed with feedback from the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, the Perception Institute and other social advocacy groups, Tuesday’s four-hour session will give workers a primer on the history of civil rights from the 1960s to present day.

Workers will also view a short documentary film.

Alexis McGill Johnson, Perception’s co-founder and executive director, says anti-bias training is about

awareness.

“The work that we want to do is not say you’re a bad person because you have a stereotype about a group, but say this is why your brain may have these stereotypes,” she said.

Johnson declined to elaborate on the details of the Starbucks training. But she said Perception’s workshops typically include mental exercises to show participants how bias creeps into situations. A session can include personal reflections, she said, such as, “‘I was socialised to think about a group this way.’”

Johnson said the real work is for employees to apply what they learn in their everyday lives. She likened it to exercising a muscle. Some ways to practice counter-stereotyping, she said, are to look for something unique about a person that is beyond their social identity.

“It could be having a question that elicits something more interesting than, say, the weather

or the traffic,” Johnson said, stressing the need to “go well beyond the superficial”.

In the Philadelphia incident, Rashon Nelson and Donte Robinson were asked to leave after one was denied access to the bathroom. They were arrested by police minutes after they sat down to await a business meeting. The incident was recorded by cellphones and went viral.

Nelson and Robinson settled with Starbucks this month for an undisclosed sum and an offer of a free education. They also reached a deal with the city of Philadelphia for a symbolic $1 each and a promise from officials to establish a $200,000 program for young entrepreneurs.

Starbucks has since announced anyone can use its restrooms even if they are not buying anything.

Starbucks said the arrests never should have occurred and announced the mass closures of its stores for the afternoon of training.