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VOLUME:114 No.143, JUNE, 19th, 2017

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SPORTS: GARDINER IN STOCKHOLM 400M VICTORY

PAGES

Dispute in row on airport rent

Ex-minister says LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD write-off part of FOR CLEOPHAS ADDERLEY ‘complex matter’

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THE $1.2m write-off of a tenant’s $3.3m rent arrears at the Lynden Pindling International Airport was part of a resolution to a complex matter through several administrations caused in part by challenges that arose when airport traffic projections made by the Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd (NAD) did not materialise, former Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna Martin said yesterday.

The Englerston MP explained that the tenant, PatMor Holdings, entered into

leaseholds at a time when NAD faced a serious dilemma with the previous tenant and that this new lease was assumed when the outstanding arrears from the prior tenant for several of the units was already at a significant level.

In addition, Mrs Hanna Martin said challenges emerged when traffic projections made by NAD did not materialise upon which revenue projections were made by the tenant. Finally there were also questions as to whether the tenant in question was paying a higher interest rate than other tenants.

SEE PAGE SIX

THE consultant whose $1m contract with the Ministry of Tourism has come under public scrutiny yesterday responded to assertions that he was being paid an “outrageous” sum for having done little work, as he rejected the suggestion of being involved in anything “crooked or underhanded”.

Ian Poitier, a Bahamian engaged by the previous Christie administration for culture related consultancy services, released an 11-page response to Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar who on Thursday told parliamentarians that he discovered that the consultant was paid over $400,000 a year, “more than the combined salary of over seven Cabinet ministers”.

SEE PAGE THREE

MAN ON BAIL FOR MURDER IS SHOT DEAD

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deput y Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

POLICE are investigating a shooting incident that left a man on bail for murder dead and another in hospital in serious condition.

The deceased was wearing an ankle monitoring bracelet, police said.

Police also reported that a man injured in a shooting last Monday in Abaco died of his injuries on Saturday at Princess Margaret Hospital.

In the latest incidents, shortly after midnight on Sunday morning, a man drove himself to East Street South Police Station and reported that while he was parked in his vehicle in the area of a school on Charles SEE PAGE SIX

THREE CUBANS ESCAPE FROM DETENTION

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THREE Cuban men escaped from the Carmichael Road Detention Centre early Saturday morning, leading Director of Immigration William Pratt to warn the public of fines up to $10,000 and a maximum prison term of five years for anyone found harbouring illegal immigrants.

He told The Tribune yesterday that the Department of Immigration is also investigating whether the three Cubans — Carlos Daniel Abreus, Yoel Valerio Hurtado and Roberto Azcorra Consuegra (pictured) — received inside help to escape the facility.

SEE PAGE 11

CONSULTANT: NOTHING CROOKED OVER $1M TOURISM CONTRACT

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

HOME

CLEOPHAS ADDERLEY, director of the National Youth Choir, pictured on Saturday night receiving his lifetime achievement award at the ICON Awards. For more photographs from the event, see page ten.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

‘POWER TO THE PEOPLE’ THE SOLUTION TO HELPING FAMILY ISLANDS PROSPER

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

THE LEGAL director of an environmental group believes that the Family Islands will only prosper if local government is strengthened giving more power to the people who reside in these communities.

Addressing scores of residents at a recent town hall LIMITED TIME!

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meeting in Bimini, Save The Bays’ Director Fred Smith, QC, responded to concerns that the central government continued to have great control over the economic decisions of the Family Islands at the expense of their natural preservation. His comments came as he spoke of the need to protect Bimini’s natural resources from ex-

ploitation and degradation at the hands of big, foreign direct investments.

“The big challenge that the entire Bahamas and all the Family Islands face is the fact that the government in Nassau runs everything that happens in the Family Islands instead of respecting the locals,” Mr Smith said.

SEE PAGE 11

SANDS CALLED ON TO BACK UP CLAIMS FORMER Minister of Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville has called on Health Minister Dr Duane Sands to substantiate his allegations that the Christie administration awarded $90m worth of healthcare contracts shortly before the general election, calling the claims “untrue.”

Dr Darville, former member of Parliament for Pineridge, also demanded that Dr Sands table all relevant health contracts in the House of Assembly or apologise to the public for allegedly “misleading Parliament”.

SEE PAGE 14

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PAGE 2, Monday, June 19, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

MORE THAN 50 ARRESTS IN FRIDAY NIGHT POLICE OPERATION POLICE arrested more than 50 people during an operation on Friday night.

Among the arrests, one man was picked up for murder, another for operating

BAHAMAS POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY LTD. VACANCY NOTICE

SENIOR ELECTRICAL TECHNICIAN FAMILY ISLAND HEADQUARTERS FAMILY ISLANDS DIVISION A vacancy exists in the Company for a Senior Electrical Technician in the Family Island Headquarters of the Family Islands Division.

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a brothel, 14 Jamaican and Bahamian women were taken into custody for prostitution and 34 people were arrested for firearm and dangerous drugs possession.

Police also reported that they arrested two Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) officers along with two other men following the seizure of a quantity of dangerous drugs in separate incidents over a 24-hour period.

In the first incident, around 7pm on Thursday, officers from the Tourism Policing Unit on patrol in Marlborough Street observed a vehicle driving in

Planning the work of subordinate staff primarily on a day to day. This involves planning work schedules, assigning daily work programs, preparing reports, planning preventative maintenance programs, and coordinating work activities with other departments; Arranging work assignments to maintain workflow; Making budgetary recommendations to supervisor for tools and equipment; Directing subordinate staff in carrying out their duties including assigning duties on a daily basis to maintain workflow and instructing staff of guidelines and procedures to follow (for example, providing details on the safe and accurate way of maintaining, repairing and installing electrical equipment); Assisting with the setting of performance standards (quality and quantity) for work performed by subordinate staff in the department; Reviewing the work of staff daily to assure high quality and acceptable cost; Appraising the performance of subordinate staff in accordance with the Corporation’s

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a reckless manner. The officers signalled to the vehicle to stop and held up the two male occupants, one of whom was a RBDF officer, police said. A quantity of marijuana was found. The RBDF officer and the other man were taken into custody.

In the second incident, around 6pm on Friday, officers from the Tourism Policing Unit on patrol in the same area intercepted a Suzuki vehicle occupied by two men, one of whom was a RBDF officer. The officers searched the vehicle and found a quantity of marijuana. Both men were arrested.

Completion of a Technical School Program with an Ordinary Technician Diploma or Electrical Engineering Certificate, with single or three phase electrical license; A minimum of 5-10 years of experience; Thorough working knowledge of electrical schemata and systems to design and install system modifications, troubleshoot faults, conduct alternator inspections, insulation residence and factory recommended tests, and maintain alternator coolers and related equipment; Proficiency in the use of meggers, voltage and multimeters, industrial and personal computers, and pressure analyzers; Written and verbal communication skills; Stress management skills to work under pressure; The ability to operate both industrial and personal computers to perform system tests and prepare reports; May be required to oversee work teams comprised of employees from various disciplines; Must be physically fit.

Interested persons should apply by completing and returning an Application Form to: Manager – Human Resources Department, Bahamas Power and Light Company Ltd., Blue Hill & Tucker Roads, P. O. Box N-7509, Nassau, Bahamas on or before: June 20, 2017.

Only candidates meeting the criteria will be contacted.

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THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 19, 2017, PAGE 3

FORMER MINISTER PRAISES $1M CULTURE CONSULTANT

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE person paid $1m for culture related consultancy services by the former government is Ian Poitier, a Bahamian engaged in the creative arts, former Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe told The Tribune on Friday.

Mr Poitier was the first Bahamian to graduate from Oxford University with a law degree, Mr Wilchcombe said.

He has co-written and directed musical productions in the United Kingdom, and has directed the Cacique Awards ceremony in The Bahamas for a num-

FORMER Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe. ber of years.

Without revealing his identity, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said in the House of Assembly Thursday night that he had discovered that the consultant was paid over $400,000 a year, “more than the combined salary of over seven Cabinet ministers”.

Mr D’Aguilar said the issue “smells fishy” and that he has ordered that no further payments be made to him.

When contacted Friday, Mr Wilchcombe countered that Mr D’Aguilar should talk quality, not just numbers. He said former Prime Minister Perry Christie personally sought out Mr Poitier and encouraged him to return to The Bahamas from the United Kingdom.

“When you think about The Bahamas, you must know in its efforts to develop itself and create presentations that would be impactful, you need someone of high calibre,” he said.

“The individual who was

recruited from UK, an outstanding Bahamian who was brought home by the former prime minister to serve in cultural development, played a major role in a number of things we did over the past several years, including directing the Cacique awards. What the minister forgot to mention is the same individual had been hired by the previous administration to stage individual events. Our government decided to negotiate with him and see how best to have him involved in the development of our cultural identity and to have him help with events and we were satisfied with the work we did.”

Looking simply at the “numbers” is the wrong approach to take when assessing payment to vendors, Mr Wilchcombe said, adding that Bahamians must also “look at quality”.

Mr Poitier assisted The Bahamas with culture related presentations it made in Cuba, New York and elsewhere, he said, adding that he also assisted in the writing of national policies in various ways, including in relation to the National Development Plan.”

“There are so many areas and things we were seeking to do,” he said. “We need a national show that could be of the level which we see in Las Vegas or New York or

Great Britain that we could present to the world with theatre dancers and artists we could put together with production. In a narrow perspective you could say maybe it was too much but a more broad perspective must be taken when you you taking someone away from what they do in the UK, directing major productions, and bringing him here. We have to appreciate this is a Bahamian with all the qualities who in my opinion was worth it. He worked between the prime minister’s office and the Ministry of Tourism and was involved in all the major culture events in The Bahamas.”

CONSULTANT: NOTHING CROOKED OVER $1M TOURISM CONTRACT from page one

Mr D’Aguilar said the issue “smells fishy,” adding that he has ordered that no further payments be made to him. He did not disclose Mr Poitier’s name when he made the remarks.

Mr Poitier has a law degree from Oxford University. He has co-written and directed musical productions in the United Kingdom, and has directed the Cacique Awards ceremony in the Bahamas for a number of years.

Mr Poitier yesterday clarified that his expertise and credentials were solicited by the previous government as he defended his reputation.

He also claimed that what he was paid as a consultant was lower when compared to other consultants paid to do similar work in The Bahamas, in the Caribbean region and globally.

Mr Poitier said he finds the dilemma to be “truly bizarre” but admitted that his singular mistake “has been in not absolutely insisting that I was provided with a signed contract before starting the work.”

“Although he (Mr D’Aguilar) did not mention me by name, taking together all the details mentioned, I surmised that he was referring to me. Others have clearly concluded the same,” Mr Poitier’s statement noted.

“In his remarks relating to me, the minister made the following allegations: That there was something ‘fishy’ about my consultancy with the government; that executives at the Ministry of Tourism think that whatever work I’ve done doesn’t represent value for money; that the minister couldn’t find any evidence of what I’ve done; that I have been paid outrageous sums of money (and) that the minister could find no evidence of a signed contract, implying that no contract exists.

“Because of the damage that the minister’s remarks have had on my reputation, in this statement I wish urgently to refute each of these allegations in turn.

Taken together, the minister’s statements paint a picture which is inaccurate, incomplete and misleading,” Mr Poitier continued.

He said he was due to meet with Mr D’Aguilar at 4pm on Thursday, only to have the meeting cancelled abruptly.

CORRECTION IN the June 14 edition of The Tribune, it was incorrectly reported that Malik Bowe was crowned Miss Teen Universe/Commonwealth.

It should have been reported that Malique Bowe is Miss Teen Commonwealth of The Bahamas, and she will compete in the Miss Teenager Universe Pageant in Guatemala.

Dominic Russell is the founder, organiser and director of Miss Teen Grand Bahama International and Darrol Stubbs is the assistant director of the pageant.

Mr Russell is also the new franchise holder for the Miss Teen Universe Bahamas Organisation and has given Ms Bowe the title of Miss Teenager Universe Bahamas. The Tribune would also like to clarify that McKell Yallop is Miss Teen Grand Bahama.

The Tribune apologises for any inconvenience caused.

“That said, even though the minister has not extended the courtesy to me of speaking with me or meeting me once since his appointment, I feel constrained from entering into too much detail in public at the moment, as I still have an effective consultancy agreement with the government. And I will continue to offer the minister all the respect and courtesies and discretion due to him, as I did to members of the previous administration.

“At the outset, I should emphasise that I am an independent person, a private citizen. As such, I will continue jealously to guard and defend my reputation, by whatever means necessary. Also, I did not hire me. If the minister’s quarrel is with the previous administration, then it is regrettable that he did not make that clear. I hope that members of the previous government will issue appropriate statements setting out the facts for the minister.”

On the issue of the amount of money he was paid, he noted: “One of the most egregious allegations is that I have been paid outrageous sums of money to do this work. Before I go further, I must emphasise that I have been providing consultancy services to the government of the Bahamas, not working as an employee. As such I am responsible for all the costs arising out of that consultancy.

“These include payments to other people, third-parties, for all the work they do to support me, as well as all other business expenses. The negotiations regarding the work I was to deliver, was predicated on me setting up a separate company to carry out the work. I set up a company for this purpose, at some cost.

I was told in the meantime to invoice the Ministry of Tourism in my own name, and that once the contract was fully executed, the paperwork should be transferred to the company. This I did, and I named the consultancy in memory of my sister, who had recently passed away. As the contract was not executed, I have allowed the company to go dormant.

“I will not engage in a discussion regarding my personal finances.”

Background In his statement, Mr Poitier recalled leaving The Bahamas in 1980 at the age of 15 and “living and working

abroad mostly in London, for 34 years”.

In his formative years, he attended the Lester B Pearson United World College in Canada for his International Baccalaureate before proceeding to Oxford to undertake training in law.

He then went on to train in musical theatre at The Arts Educational Schools in London and after this worked on numerous projects in the United Kingdom.

“At the invitation of the government, I returned home in October 2014 to undertake a three-year consultancy,” he noted.

“Throughout my entire career, never once, not once, has my integrity ever been called into question.

I have worked on projects for the British government, Buckingham Palace, the European Commission and some of the largest corporations in the world eg, the BBC, Coca-Cola, Levi’s, Sky Television, American Express, GlaxoSmithKline etc. I have also worked for some of the smallest startups, and have my own established entrepreneurial ventures. I have sat on the boards of charities, and been engaged in a number of non-governmental organisations. Never once has my character been called into question. I don’t tell lies. I have never defrauded anybody. I treat people with courtesy and respect.

I work hard, and always above and beyond the call of duty. I produce work that

is world-class and of the highest quality. I deliver.

“The suggestion that I would be involved in anything crooked, or underhanded, or not above-board, or in any way dishonest, is profoundly upsetting and offensive. I reject it in the strongest possible terms.

My reputation is spotless, and having been drawn into this kind of scandal, deeply saddens me.”

He further wished to correct the “false impression” left by the minister that he was merely a cultural consultant to the Ministry of Tourism.

“This ignores the substantial body of work that I have delivered over the past two and a half years which does not relate to culture or to tourism, work considered by many to have been of high quality.

“It is extremely disingenuous of the minister to claim that he could find no evidence of what I’ve done.

He could have asked his permanent secretary, who I recently updated several weeks ago with a full list of my accomplishments and achievements. He could even have asked me!”

Among other contributions, Mr Poitier claimed to have led the creation of a National Cultural Development Strategy (incorporated into National Development Plan); led development of new National Centre for Performing Arts; authored a creative industries strategic framework which is in progress; authored a downtown and

cruise ship development strategy and served as an advisor to a Bahamian music song competition.

He also claimed to be a general policy adviser to the prime minister and said he would review and comment on third-party proposals for minister of tourism.

Mr Poitier also said he wrote, produced, choreographed and/or directed national, international events namely the Bahamas independence celebrations; Exuma Heritage Festival; Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival opening ceremonies among several other events.

Mr Poitier said that notwithstanding the last few days: “I don’t regret com-

ing home. It has not always been easy, but it is still home.”

“It will probably be more difficult now to persuade others to follow me, once they hear of my experience.

To be attacked by a minister in Parliament, and then by members of the public, when you have just always tried to do your best...it’s upsetting, an aspect of life in the Bahamas that is not better. Thankfully my work is still highly-valued in the UK and the United States.

If the minister specifically, and the new government generally, wishes me to continue to help, then I remain ready to work on behalf of the country.”

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PAGE 4, Monday, June 19, 2017

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 .

Publisher/Editor 1919-1972 Contributing Editor 1972-1991

EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON,

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

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Who pays the salary of those given jobs to vote?

IN the House of Assembly last week newly elected Long Island MP Adrian Gibson accused the former Christie administration of putting at least 40 persons onto government’s payroll just two weeks before the May 10 election to influence the vote. One of the 40 was hired just the day before the election.

Mr Gibson said that in exchange for a government job they had to be “open PLP supporters”, showing their support in a tangible way. In other words they were to use their loud mouths to spread the PLP gospel, and, like the Pied Piper of fairy-tale days, lead voters to the polls to mark their X for the PLP candidate.

Mr Gibson said that other than a “small handful,” they were all poll workers for PLP candidate Glendon Rolle for polling divisions one through nine.

Mr Gibson went further. He told House members that PLP candidate Rolle and a “contracted Ministry of Finance employee” were the ones “galvanising and leading the charge” in a “government vehicle” to hire the 39 persons. This certainly was a bold breach of civil service rules.

At one time — pre PLP – for a civil servant’s shadow to cross the line at election time was automatic dismissal from the service. However, over the years under the PLP all the rules have been discarded. It seems that anything goes … of course as long as it goes in the direction of the PLP. We are pleased to hear that Prime Minister Minnis is in no mood to accept the continuation of this deterioration in standards and moral principles.

Now that we have a people’s government it is the responsibility of The People to demand higher standards and, as they march into the future, to stamp out the idea that “anything goes.” Whoever the civil servant was who took the government vehicle to campaign in Long Island should be called in and made read the rule book of his employment. Both he and his vehicle were out of order.

Civil servants must learn that although they have the right to vote for the party of their choice, as long as they are civil servants they have to remain neutral in appearance and behaviour, both in and out of office.

A week or two before the election, Mr Gibson told the House, eight persons were hired as security guards at the Stella Maris airport. Mr Gibson supported his allegations by tabling in the House the master payroll for the 39 persons enrolled on the “National Empowerment Placement programme.”

Mr Gibson’s reference to the “National Empowerment Programme” now explains a statement made in April, about a month before the election by former Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell. At the time Mr Mitchell said he was asked by residents in his constituency about the cessation of government job programmes.

He said he told them that anyone on his party’s “empowerment programme” would have nothing to worry about if the PLP were re-elected. With this comment Mr Mitchell has made it crystal clear that the “empowerment programme” was the PLP’s inducement to get votes for the party’s candidates.

‘You’ve been hired by the government, and the only way that that will change is if you elect the FNM to be the government,” said Mr Mitchell. “What you need to do on election day is make sure the PLP is the government and then you don’t have to worry about losing a job.”

Last year, said Mr Mitchell, “the PM announced that 3,500 public servants would go on the permanent and pensionable and that is happening right now as we speak. So the only thing you have to worry about is if the FNM takes over in May. “If you vote PLP you don’t have to worry about whether you’re going to lose your job after election, so don’t come asking us what’s going to happen after Election Day. You have that power in your hands, vote PLP, you don’t have to worry,” said Mr Mitchell.

And so, by whatever name you call it, Mr Mitchell has clearly spelt out the PLP’s inducement programme — a job in return for a vote, thus adding to the already overburdened civil service at the expense of the Bahamian taxpayer.

Now that the election is over, these people will want to know who is going to pay them for whatever work they might have done. Judging from Mr Gibson’s statement that department heads can find no written evidence “of any hiring that was authorised by a permanent secretary or director”, the inference being that there was no lawful hiring of these people under public service rules.

Our only suggestion to these unfortunate Bahamians, who were hoodwinked by their politicians, is to look for payment to whomever hired you and directed you to your job site.

As, apparently, there is no legal contract of employment, these unfortunate Bahamians are not, and have never been legally employed by any government department. They, therefore, are not the responsibility of the FNM government and should not be on the civil service payroll. Even Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin, former minister of aviation and transport, ditched the eight security guards hired to guard Long Island’s Stella Maris airport. According to her they would not have been hired to work as security guards “in the absence of proper training.”

Therefore, whoever has been hired should look for payment to whomever devised the “empowerment programme” — and this does not include shifting the burden to Bahamian taxpayers.

Don’t kill with taxes EDITOR, The Tribune.

IT must indeed be The People’s Time if one looks at Tribune242.com Latest Business Headlines.

• Sebas’s Property Group In ‘Extraordinary Growth’ • No Vat In Govt’s Vacation Rental Deal With Airbnb • Govt Alarmed Over Web Shop Draw, Product Rise Unbelievably sandwiched, in between grotesquely profitable endeavours of a very few individuals in businesses that were unlawful just a few years ago, is the new People’s Time Government Minister of Tourism announcing a deal with Airbnb to tax the few hundred, mostly Bahamian “PEOPLE” who eke out a living by opening up their homes to visitors from the far corners of the earth, enticed here, not by the Government of the Bahamas, which does not

market to these places, and as far as I am aware, none of these Bahamians has asked for, nor been given, any Crown Land, no Duty Free Concessions, not even Real Property Tax Waivers or discounts, yet the PEOPLE’S Government wants to “SHARE” in these Bahamians tiny piece of this miraculous pie that it (the People’s Government) had absolutely no investment in, nor any part in creating, nor even maintaining.

I am so minded of AESOPS fable: A dog seized some meat from the butcher shop and ran away with it until he came to a river. When the dog was crossing the river, he saw the reflection of the meat in the water, and it seemed much larger than the meat he was carrying.

He dropped his own piece of meat in order to try to snatch at the reflection.

When the reflection disap-

peared, the dog went to grab the meat he had dropped but he was not able to find it anywhere, since a passing raven had immediately snatched the meat and gobbled it up. The dog lamented his sorry condition and said, ‘Woe is me! I foolishly abandoned what I had in order to grab at a phantom, and thus I ended up losing both that phantom and what I had to begin with.’

This fable is about greedy people who grasp at more than they need.

So yes, you have the power to tax this little miracle but you will kill it, just as surely as you have burdened the hotels with taxes and fees and God only knows what else. And some other country will benefit through your unbelievable greed, ignorance, and stupidity.

BRUCE G. RAINE Nassau, June 17, 2017.

Exposing the lies of the FNM EDITOR, The Tribune.

ONE by one, the lies, mischaracterisations and false narratives that helped (with dollops of foreign money) the FNM to sweep to power, are being exposed, fizzling or simply benefitting from a new and unprecedented policy of Prime Ministerial aloofness.

Suddenly, the once-sinister veiling of the Baha Mar deal has morphed into a not-so-sinister matter involving private litigants and a court order: in other words, just what the PLP said it was!

As for the PLP’s supposed financial profligacy, we now have an FNM that agrees not only to finance the hangover to the tune of a $400m loan, but insists on additional borrowing of $300m to finance its own programmes!

Meanwhile, as Dr Minnis (in stage-managed style, with no questioning media) threatens to expose and punish MPs (for which, read PLP MPs) for financial nondisclosure, the fact that, as Minister of Health, he earned in excess of his ministerial salary on a lease to that same ministry seems utterly un-noteworthy to anyone except Rodney Moncur.

The lame retort that this interest was “declared” is the equivalent of a schoolteacher with child-molesting proclivities being given the pass because he “declared” them. The answer is not to declare, but to resign.

In fact, he should not have been appointed - presumably there were other ministries that were not his tenants.

Nor, when the FNM threatens corrupt officials with jail, does anyone in the media note that it was just last year proved in a court of law that the Ingraham government in which the current PM served

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net presided over a $600,000 bribe, which resulted in the spending of $80m on defective BEC generators that have resulted in more than a decade of ThirdWorld style blackouts in New Providence. Even that conviction did not lead to jail.

Armed with a political license to distort, the FNM apparently made an effective opposition. But do they have a constructive plan for this country?

After “stop, review and cancel”, what next? It is beginning to feel like Bahamians, who in so many ways inhabit a half-built country, have just elected an amateur demolition crew with no construction experience to finish the job. Meanwhile, Dr. Minnis has hidden himself into the role of a distant figurehead, with little responsibility to either truth or detail.

We now have a Prime Minister who seems to have confused his role with that of a ceremonial head of state, spending his weekdays touring government institutions and hosting schoolchildren’s field trips to his office.

This confusion seems to explain his absurd proposal to attach term limits to an office that, in other Westminster jurisdictions, is recognised as nothing more than a pragmatic reflection of the composition of Parliament, which can be fluid (as recent events in Britain showed) and does not benefit from legislative fixtures.

It may also explain his hasty appointment of a Press Secretary, who quickly announced that he will be subjecting himself to media questions exactly four times annually. While this arrange-

ment may suit Minnis’ apparent weakness on detail, it is a curious development in light of the FNM’s obsessive claims of transparency and being …“da people’s time” government.

In due course, Bahamians will come to see just how badly they were misled by a combination of a corrupted media, foreign financial interests and simple lies.

It is beginning already among more thoughtful observers of events. The aggressive (and quickly vacated) investigation of Dion Smith’s supposed “corruption” at BAIC; the decision to drop the appeal against Save the Bays’ assault on parliamentary privilege; and the daily, empty theatrics of FNM MPs behind a veil of that same privilege, will eventually broaden that realisation even among less thoughtful observers.

Meanwhile, the PLP (the only alternative to this hopeless and dangerous crew) must remain confident and committed in defending its reputation on every single point, so as not to permit a false narrative to become “fact” in the absence of challenge. It must challenge FNM MPs to repeat the lies they tell before cameras in parliament out in the street and face the consequences.

It must also take every opportunity that presents itself (and they will be many) to expose Minnis’ FNM for what it is: a reckless, vindictive and opportunistic outfit that has no real plans for the improvement of The Bahamas, only a lust for power, for which it will sell itself (and the country with it) to the highest bidder.

ANDREW ALLEN Nassau, June 17, 2017.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 19, 2017, PAGE 5

Parliamentarians must file disclosures by June 30

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net THE government has set a June 30 deadline for former and sitting parliamentarians to file disclosures or face prosecution, according to Press Secretary Anthony Newbold.

In a recent interview with The Tribune, the veteran journalist said the government has instructed Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) Chairman

Myles Laroda to send his finalised list of delinquent parliamentarians to the attorney general by Monday, July 3.

Last month, Mr Laroda would not disclose the list of delinquent politicians but noted that they included members of both the former governing party, the Progressive Liberal Party, and the Free National Movement, which served as the Official Opposition until the May 10 general election.

According to The Tribune’s records, the deadline being imposed by the Minnis administration could affect more than 20 present and current members of Parliament.

Present and former parliamentarians and senators, along with senior public officers, are required to submit their disclosures to the PDC by March each year.

The law specifies that persons in breach could face a fine of $10,000, or

two years in prison, or both, or confiscation of land if land is involved.

On Wednesday, Minister of State for Legal Affairs Elsworth Johnson suggested that the government amend the Public Disclosure Act to broaden the scope to include campaign finance reform and to make provision for direct referral to an independent prosecutor.

Mr Johnson, former President of the Bahamas Bar Association, said public

disclosures are necessary to keep parliamentarians and public officials “accountable”.

He went on to commend both Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Attorney General Carl Bethel on their efforts to crack down on delinquent disclosures since coming to office.

During the Christie administration’s tenure, the PDC expressed concern over the widespread failure of officials to comply with legislation.

In 2014, former Prime Minister Perry Christie addressed the matter in the House of Assembly, urging members to prioritise submissions.

At the time of his plea, 11 of 38 MPs could not confirm to The Tribune whether they had filed all of their annual disclosures.

Moreover, at least nine government ministers had not filed their public disclosures for 2014 as mandated by law, according to their own admissions.

MINNIS SAYS REVIEW UNDERWAY OF PUBLIC SERVICE OFFICERS

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THE Minnis administration is in the process of reviewing contracted public service officers with a view to slashing the level of wastage in the public sector, according to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.

Asked whether the government had undertaken a hiring freeze in the aftermath of a sobering view of the economy and of the level of government spending under the former Christie administration disclosed during the House of Assembly’s budget debate, Dr Minnis said hiring will take place “only as necessary.”

Last week, Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest said the economic plan being chartered during the ongoing 2017-2018 budget debate aims to stabilise the country’s finances, as he underscored the continued need to reduce “discretionary spending” and bring the nation’s expenditure under control. “(Hiring is) only as necessary,” Dr Minnis told The Tribune when contacted yesterday.

“(This is) to ensure the proper running of (the) country. There can be no increased expenditure. In fact, we aim to continuously decrease expenditure while improving efficiency and production.

“Contracted officers are being reviewed to remove wastage.”

The Minnis administration has projected borrowing more than $722m to cover inherited outstanding bills along with the costs associated with running the country moving forward, after discovering the Christie administration left “the cupboard bare,” according to Mr Turnquest.

The deputy prime minister has explained that $400m is needed to satisfy expenditure for the past fiscal year, while $322,462,707m will be borrowed for the 2017-2018 fiscal year, amounting to $722,462,707m.

Responding to questions on the viability of the country’s economy moving forward, the East Grand Bahama MP last Wednesday said the government is currently attempting to grow the economy in a way that does not inflict

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has said that the government is reviewing the contracted public service officers in the country as part of an effort to reduce the level of wastage in the public sector.

Dr Minnis said hiring will only take place “as necessary”. any additional long-term “As we go through and “harm.” we understand the numHe told reporters gath- bers and we understand the ered outside the House of theories and the assumpAssembly that the initial tions behind the numbers, review of resources and we may be able to squeeze spending habits has uncov- out some of the excess and ered a non-productive sys- some of that fat,” the ministem of governance. ter of finance said.

Mr Turnquest, a forenMr Turnquest said it resic accountant by profes- mains the government’s sion, said the review also main aim to determine if suggests that the gov- the country has received ernment could “squeeze “value for money” and out some of the excess” that if the government was from the public expendi- “maximising” its tax revture. enues.

MILLER BLAMES POWER OUTAGES ON THE HIRING OF ‘FOREIGNERS’

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) Executive Chairman Leslie Miller has blamed the frequent power outages at Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) on the former administration’s decision to hire “foreigners” to run the power company rather than allow Bahamians to “fix the problems”.

In an interview with The Tribune on Friday, Mr Miller said had former Prime Minister Perry Christie allowed the former BEC board to remain in place and “follow through on our plans” the Bahamian people would not have this problem.

Mr Miller served as executive chairman of BEC, now called BPL, until late 2015. He was removed from his post at the utility provider shortly after the government announced that a transition service agreement had been signed with American company PowerSecure.

The outspoken former MP was later made chairman of the Water and Sewerage Corporation.

On Friday, he expressed anger over the present state of the company as he insisted that many of the ongoing issues faced by BPL were in the process of being resolved under his regime.

“It is just amazing to me. If Mr Christie allowed the former board to stay in place and follow through on our plans, the Bahamian (people) would not have these problems. We had financing through the Danish Import Export Bank and we were getting a loan at a two per cent interest rate that would have sig-

nificantly reduced the fuel costs to Bahamians,” Mr Miller said.

“This would have been settled but they wanted these foreigners and it is a disgrace what has happened. What the hell these new people doing and why haven’t they secured a long term fuel contract? These people getting a minimum of $5m of our hard earned money in these difficult times to do nothing. I see why these people run us.

They had every right not to return us because of the things we did and did not do.”

The former Tall Pines MP said he hopes the Minnis administration will fix the issues at BPL fast or the summer will be “rough” for Bahamians.

“This summer is going to be hard because BPL does not have the capacity. We need an extra 50 megawatts to get through the summer.

Baha Mar is now open and using power and BPL has no reserves,” Mr Miller said.

“Let’s hope the Free National Movement truly does believe in Bahamians. I am looking at them and listening to them. I know Dr Hubert Minnis means well, but he needs to show the people that he cares about them by reducing the cost of electricity and fixing the issues at BPL.” Mr Miller’s comments came one day after New Pro vidence experienced an island wide po wer o utage.

The company blamed the o utage on a “cable failure” and reassured customers that the utility pro vider wo uld find “immediate solutions to this pro blem and long-term strategies to prevent a recurrence.”

Last month, BPL expressed “confidence” in its readiness to take on the peak summer months with

its higher po wer generation capability.

At the time, BPL said while it expected the needed po wer generation this summer to peak at 255 megawatts, its current generation availability is o ver 345mw. This is 90mw higher than the demand expected this summer, BPL said.

In addition, the electricity pro vider said transmission cables between Blue Hills Po wer Station and the Big Pond Sub-Station have been replaced and upgraded to impro ve the capacity and reliability o f the transmission system.

Po inting to the perio d from June thro ugh to September last year, in which BPL experienced challenges due to lo w generation availability and reliability, the company said recently it wanted to ensure the Bahamians wo uld no t suffer from the same issues this summer.

PAGE 6, Monday, June 19, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

Dispute in row on airport rent from page one Following an audit by Kikivarakis & Co where all these matters were considered and recommendations made, former NAD Chairman Anthony McKinney, QC, said in September 2016 principle terms were agreed to resolve the longstanding issue.

These included: the sum of $1.2m from the total assessed rents be written off and the arrears of the rent in the amount of $2.2m be paid off under certain conditions.

PatMor was also to pay $800,000 within 90 days after execution of the deed of settlement, which was to be prepared by NAD’s attorneys and the balance of the arrears and interest was to be repayable on terms to be further discussed and agreed among other things.

The deed of settlement was signed in early March 2017, while the parties agreed to the terms of settlement between later January and early February, Mr McKinney has said.

Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar raised the matter in the House of Assembly last Thursday with accusations that Patricia Mortimer, the owner of PatMor Holdings, was allowed to rack up a rental debt over five years under the Christie administration and was allowed to remain delinquent due to “direct intervention by the political directorate”. He said this tenant had five stores in the airport.

While the minister did not name the tenant in the House of Assembly last week, he claimed that she approached NAD’s board

FORMER Minister of Aviation Glenys Hanna Martin. of directors two months before the general election and was allowed to enter into an agreement to “write off” $1.2m of this debt on the condition that she give up one store and pay her balance.

He suggested that this was done as a personal favour extended to the tenant because she was well-connected politically and questioned why the woman was not evicted from the airport despite “five years” of not paying rent.

The minister explained that this was the reason NAD’s board was dismissed shortly after the Free National Movement won the May 10 general election. However, Mr Mc-

Kinney has denied this, saying the board resigned. He has made letters public to substantiate this claim.

Questions Given the particulars of the resolution to the matter, Mrs Hanna Martin questioned whether the minister had apprised himself of what took place, adding that it was “very unfortunate” that he sought to cast aspersions on the former NAD board, in a place where they could not defend themselves.

“The new minister alleged impropriety on the part of the board which comprises respected Bahamian men and women, from various professional

backgrounds and in respect of which each has distinguished him or herself; that board also includes the CEO of Vantage Group of Companies. It is very regrettable,” the MP said in a statement yesterday.

She also said: “I am concerned whether the new minister apprised himself of these facts before he made such an unfortunate assessment of the board. I am further advised that this board did as the previous board did under an FNM administration, namely to work with the tenant towards a resolution.

“In light of the circumstances surrounding this matter and the minister’s allegation in the Parliament where these persons cannot defend themselves or legally challenge the minister, the minister must now be put to proof.

“The minister further seems to suggest that the tenant’s holding of multiple leases is evidence of some irregular dealings when he ought to know that there are other tenants who also have multiple leases but the minister apparently does not deem this strange.

“It seems that what he believes to be the political stripes of this particular tenant creates a problem in his perception in this regards. This is also very worrisome.

“The new minister should also know that the minister responsible for aviation is responsible for relations with the Airport Authority (AA) board and NAD and has no responsibility for or jurisdiction in the dayto-day activities of those boards.

“Any possible or remote suggestion or hinted im-

plication that the prior minister sought to exercise influence in this decisionmaking is not true,” she said.

Defence Mr McKinney maintained yesterday that during the course of the negotiations with PatMor to resolve the outstanding rent dispute, there was no direction or instruction from the former minister of transportation and aviation or from any other minister or politician directing the board on how to proceed with the settlement discussions.

He also said he “wholly” disagreed with Mr D’Aguilar’s statement in the House of Assembly regarding his characterisation of the board’s conduct with respect to the PatMor matter as well as with respect to the termination of the board’s tenure as directors of AA and NAD. “As chairman of AA and NAD, I—and most, if not all, of the other members— submitted our resignations to both boards on May 16, 2017 or shortly thereafter.

“I most definitely submitted my resignation to both the Hon Frankie Campbell, minister of transport and local government and the Hon Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation on May 16, 2017. I sent it to both ministers as I was uncertain under which ministry the NAD’s portfolio would be managed.”

A letter dated May 16, 2017 and sent to both ministers read: “As you are aware, I was first appointed for one year to act as chairman of the Airport Authority on July 1, 2012.

This appointment, by infer-

ence, meant that I would also act as chair of the Nassau Airport Development Company Limited. As of today those appointments continue.

“Technically, my current term as chairman of the above boards is due to expire on June 30, 2017, however, protocol dictates that I should tender my resignation from both boards at this time as my appointments were made by another minister and executive.”

On May 17, the minister of transport and local government replied: “I hereby acknowledge receipt of your correspondence dated May 16, 2017, regarding the above-captioned subject.

“Please be advised that the contents of this matter has been discussed with the Hon Dionisio D’Aguilar, and we both agreed that you should continue as chairman of the above boards until Cabinet further advises.”

Several days later on June 8, Mr McKinney said he was in communication with the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation who enquired whether members of the boards had tendered resignations. The former chairman said he intimated from this conversation that Cabinet was prepared to proceed with their new appointments, prompting him to write another letter to the tourism minister confirming his resignation.

“For the avoidance of doubt as of today’s date I hereby tender my resignation, with immediate effect, from the boards of both the Airport Authority and the Nassau Airport Development Company Limited,” the letter read.

MAN ON BAIL FOR MURDER IS SHOT DEAD from page one

Saunders Highway with two male passengers, a man in a

Honda vehicle shot him, according to police.

The man was taken to hospital where he is detained in serious condition.

Then shortly after 3am, police while conducting enquiries at the scene of the alleged shooting, discovered the lifeless body of one

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of the male passengers. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Police can confirm that the deceased was on bail for murder and was wearing an electronic monitoring device,” a statement from the Royal Bahamas Police Force noted. Investigations are continuing.

The killing marked the 68th homicide this year, according to The Tribune’s records.

The victim in the Abaco shooting was a 23-year-old man from Murphy Town.

He was shot in an incident on Monday last week.

Last week, Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands said the number one cause of death of the Bahamian male is a bullet and a recent crime study shows that be-

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“From 2012 to now, The Bahamas holds the distinction of having the 11th highest homicide rate in the world. We are one of the most violent countries in the world; we beat, stab, shoot and rape each other at an unacceptable rate.

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Just last year, the health minister said the Emergency Room saw 1,272 assaults, 246 stabbings and 216 gunshot wounds.

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PAGE 8 MONDAY, JUNE 19, 2017

INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

Is it The People’s Time?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THERE are a few things that could be done that would help the situation Here in The Bahamas if it truly is The People’s Time.

1. Follow the results of the democratic referendum on web shops. Make it illegal for a web shop in The Bahamas to accept one dollar starting tomorrow. If the web shop owners persist, throw them in jail. Period.

This will allow hundreds of millions of dollars a year for the real economy, instead of into the pockets of the sleaze balls. Yes, hundreds of millions of dollars. Do not underestimate the damage to the real economy by these web shops. It is not just the loss of hard dollars.

It is the loss of taxes. It is the empowering of the web shop owners, the last people we should be empowering.

They are already unjustly wealthy. It is the damage to our democracy, as this money is funneled into politics.

And, do not underestimate the damage it does to our legitimate banking sector. I am tired of listening to this idea that Bahamians should have a choice in this matter.

We already spoke.

2. Make taking kick backs for contracts by MPs punishable by capital punishment. We are quite willing

LETTERS

EXTRA

to hang someone for taking one life. Why not the killing of an entire country?

3. Present the names of all those who owe Bank of Bahamas for their crony unpaid loans. Take their assets, even if it leaves them penniless, and start getting back some of OUR money.

4. Begin investigations of all the money missing from the various government departments. Let the chips fall where they may. Call in Scotland Yard, or any other competent crime investigators. Prosecute. Jail. And claw back every dollar we can.

5. Allow Sarkis Izmirlian to recoup every dollar he put into Baha Mar. If it means he now takes back over, so be it. Not only will this be economically prudent, it will let the world know that we are reversing course from the prior sleazy Christie government and will now treat foreign investors fairly in the future.

Make the Attorney General accountable to the people, not a political party.

6. Never ever hire people and allow them to do absolutely nothing, as in the

52 week programme. It is terribly wasteful and sends a horrible message to our youth.

7. Eliminate Duty and every Customs officer from the government payroll. In my opinion it is a corrupt system. Everyone knows it.

8. Lower VAT to 5% and institute a seriously progressive increase in property taxes to fill the Duty void. Every truly Christian economist recognises that VAT is an unfair type of taxation that places a disproportionate burden on the working class and poor.

I hate VAT, however, it is here and if we make it a bit less onerous, eliminate duty, cut our borrowing, and reduce our expenditure, it can serve as a tool to help pull us out of debt. We must remember who loves VAT, and why. Businesses don’t pay VAT. Politicians get little resistance to VAT from their educated business sector, who are the ones who effectively run all governments now.

9. Slash every governmental department expenditure by 20% effective immediately. This will more than compensate for the reduction of VAT revenue.

10. Eliminate business license fees.

11. Make the Department

of Inland Revenue accountable to the people and make every one of their employees show a certificate proving they have graduated from high school and can do simple math. Allow the Department of Inland Revenue to be taken to court for inconveniencing a business owner by asking for a letter from another government agency. This is 2017.

Find a competent computer programmer who can make all government agencies computers and information accessible to each other.

Fire the head of the Department of Inland Revenue every month if necessary, until we get an efficient department that treats people with respect, is efficient, and understands that they Work for US. 12. Pass a workable Freedom of Information Act so that every five years we don’t have the complete surprise that we are broke, that our government officials have made improper deals, and that we have been taken to the cleaners by those charged with our welfare.

13. Legislate a binding agreement that eliminates any more borrowing by the government of The Bahamas. The debt load alone is overwhelming us. We must come to understand

the consequences of how much money is being spent on Interest alone. Not even on paying the loan back, just interest alone. Borrowing only serves to allow our politicians to betray us. They are making it easier for themselves to stay in power. They lie to us, saying everything is OK. While dooming each and every Bahamian, most importantly our youth, to the many, many problems associated with being so heavily in debt. We have already reached the threshold whereby we no longer have the opportunity to make sensible democratic decisions. We have already reached the point where too much money is going to pay interest, instead of investing in The Bahamas.

We are already seeing a rise in the cost of living due to the need for the government to raise more and more taxes to pay the interest due on these onerous loans. Just because someone is there to loan us the money doesn’t mean they believe in us. Let’s understand this. The banks, IMF and other institutions lend us money knowing that they will get it back. They will get it back by forcing us to sell our country, cut pensions, cut social services, privatise all of our public

utilities, and on and on, in order to do so. Please look hard at Greece if you don’t have the economics background to understand this concept. It is scripted. It is called a Structural Adjustment Programme.

14. I must re-emphasise.

Borrowing more money for government spending is killing our country.

15. Get the IMF, the World Bank, IDB, World Trade Organisation and every other global financial institution out of The Bahamas. Listening to their advice only serves to enslave a country to the money masters. Read your history.

Politicians are not smart enough to understand these people’s mode of operating and their true intentions.

People of The Bahamas--These things are easier to do now, than to commit to the inevitable suffering by the whole country which will undoubtedly occur on our present path, FNM or PLP, it doesn’t matter. The writing is on the wall. Either we tighten our belts, and make some sensible decisions, or we kiss this country goodbye. Is it really The People’s Time?

PORCUPINE A Family Island of The Bahamas June 8, 2017.

A year after Brexit vote, more people view EU favorably

By DAVID MCHUGH, Associated Press FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — A wide-ranging survey shows that public approval of the European Union has rebounded strongly compared with a year ago but that many people nonetheless think their own national governments — and not the EU — should have the say over trade and immigration.

The poll results from the US-based Pew Research Center show that majorities in nine of 10 EU member countries surveyed now hold a favorable view of the 28-country economic and political bloc.

The research center says the upswing is the latest shift in an up-and-down cycle over the past decade.

The more favorable view comes as Europe enjoys a broadening economic recovery and falling unemployment.

Results show 74 percent approval in Poland, 68 percent in Germany, 67 percent in Hungary, and 65 percent in Sweden. There were sharp swings from last year, with approval of the EU up 18 percentage points in Germany, 15 points in Spain, 13 points in the Netherlands, and 10 points in the UK. The overall median breakdown across the countries was 63 percent favorable, 34 percent unfavorable. Last year, the median figures were 51 percent favorable, 47 percent unfavorable.

The only dissenter was Greece, which has been subjected to severe budget austerity measures imposed by fellow EU states, at 33 percent favorable. Yet even there, when asked if they wanted to leave the European Union, 54 percent said they would rather stay, to 35 percent who favored leaving.

Italy was the other country surveyed where leaving the EU was supported by a substantial minority of 35 percent. Italy has shown weak economic growth since joining the euro cur-

AN ELDERLY man rests at a bus stop as pensioners protest outside the Greek Parliament, in central Athens, on Thursday, June 15, 2017. Greece is hoping to secure more bailout funds to meet a summer debt repayment hump as well as a debt relief deal at a meeting of finance ministers from the 19-country eurozone.

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rency in 1999 and remains burdened with high government debt, excessive bureaucracy and red tape, and poor prospects of permanent jobs for young people leaving school.

In the UK, where a year ago voters chose narrowly to leave the EU, 54 percent had a positive view of the EU compared with 40 percent who had a negative view.

Asked if leaving was a good or a bad thing for the UK, people in Britain were broadly divided. Slightly more — 48 percent — said leaving was a bad thing, while 44 percent said leaving was a good thing.

In the June 2016 referendum, 52 percent of voters supported leaving the EU to 48 percent for remaining.

On Monday, the country will officially start talks to leave the bloc.

The EU is an economic and political union that is now the world’s largest single market, where products can move freely across borders without tariffs.

People can travel from one country to another without border controls and it has become easier for people to live, work, study or retire in another member country.

The Pew Research Center compiled responses from 9,935 people in France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom from March 2 to April 17, 2017. Margins of error ranged from 3.7 percent plus or minus to 5.2 percent plus or minus. The questions were asked face to face in several countries and by calling mobile and landline numbers in others.

The results pre-date last week’s parliamentary election in Britain, which resulted in a setback for pro-Brexit Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservatives. They lost their majority and must form a coalition with the small Democratic Unionist Party based in Northern Ireland.

The numbers indicated many people wanted national governments, not the EU, to determine immigration and trade policy. Yet 66 percent wanted their own governments to decide who could come in from other EU countries, while 27 favored the EU making decisions. In 2015, 1.4 million people migrated from one EU state to another.

MONDAY, MAY 22, 2017 PAGE 10,insight@tribunemedia.net Monday, January 23, 2017 EMAIL:

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INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net TRIBUNE MONDAY, JUNE THE 19, 2017 PAGE 9

GAIN AN EDGE A NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

GAIN AN EDG

Historic moment

A prescription Why diversified for a brighterisfuture education key to social equity R

A NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON HIGHER EDUCATI

sday “THE past two years nd Health ce on taking have flown by. Even now mind and body that I’m about to graduate, making waves the fact that I’ve been able to attend university at all as Box sporting seems surreal,” says Stephnigo “Naugh- anie Stubbs, who will soon have her Associate’s Deaya OCHELLE Failure to have both gree in Medical Laboratory Smith had Technology from Keiser TVET and traditional nesday prayed long and University in Florida. ch - a weeklyhard about what academics available in of 39 Ly’s she newwanted in the to doStephanie with heris one allwho school ford Cay Scholars will programmes nology life.

Stephanie’s ultimate goal graduate this year join believed Smith’s is aand disservice to in her potential She forthwas in the 11th grade enough to invest in her. It is to return to The Bahamas the thousands of Scholars Calland column a decision regarding the our children and who been able to com- was the boost she needed to and partner with an estabtrajectory of her lifehave needed believe in herself and pur- lished laboratory company country, says Remiska plete theirin-college educarsday to be made. She would sue her own to expand its business to intion either locally or interand Religion, Wildgoose, English dreams. form her mother tonight. is convinced clude more diverse medical nationallyapover instructor the past 45 at Stephanie ew As she reluctantly BTVI that college has unlocked a technology services. Her through ook’, a weekly proached Mrs years Smith, she the generos- whole new world for her and hope is that her training ity of donors to the Lyford ng could in The BaTVET is a first option for out.a path sense the exhaustion. school does not setwork her on towards will help the country closer Cay Foundations. some is an important step as a society, Mrs Smith worked hard - Unfortunately, success.

She has used every provide a wider array of towards progression. The we road place to whitemoment collar jobs both parents did,Although for they the of her Associate’s medical laboratory services graduation has not an day that is talented with on abeen pedestal.

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View Naughtributing to the society as a system sis rivals most, testing,” All- that money we plunkthrough she chance to really look toward so many aspiring take on tothe whole. Thus, failure to have shows that 45 said. per cent of ing out put youLike in private Stephanie knows that the future and seek out opstudents, Stephanie’s first Bahamas both TVET and traditional a technical school and you say you wan’ students choose there are many portunities where I couldn’t the road to although e Finish Line,Girlmajor academics available in all as opposed to the trado what?! you hurdle better ontrack physicians in see them before,” said Stepha college education wasacademics*. fi- well-trained e local sports school programmes is truly ditional What get out my face and pray Bahamas, there is a anie. “This opportunity was nancial.

“I can still remem-whoThe nt about Stubbswhat to do a disservice to our children if Joshua, can need take for a equally with your great well- the just the first rung on a very ber the momentcar thatapart I foundand put it back and ultimately our country. life!” trained healthcare technoltall ladder. I plan to continue outretreated, I was awarded a scholurdayRochelle At this pivotal moment, together, or Gabrielle, who ogy professionals. to climb and I’m going to confrom The une’s Top 5: arship there is no simple answer can Foundapaint nails like artwork heartbroken, despondAfter graduation, Stephtinue my education by any tions,” she to reflected. was had the op- to solve our social and deoent, review of determined ecoon a “I canvass, but was anie plans to pursue a means possible.” stunned!

Just moments beopmake storiesherby mother nomic ills.

Nevertheless, on to be proud. portunity early Bachelor’s degree in bio• “Gain An Edge” is a foreand I learned gilShe on prayed www. long of our answers lies in seenI’dasbeen a success for sciences who one hard that logical or clinical weekly collaboration of a scholarship, I was omand decided to awarded placing diversified educathey are, as opposed to the pursue medbiology. She will also do the Lyford Cay Foundacalling the that inicine.

The Trib- contemplating expectations tion at the forefront. All society study to become a tions, Bahamas Technical college to tell them thatonto I further usiness, especially deprojects them? specialist For countries, As sports, Bahamians, we know certified in hema- and Vocational Institute wouldn’t because d this Classifieds veloping countries, need students like tology these, techstory all too well. be Wecoming and microbiology. and University of The Bacouldn’t best to I justthe balanced development nical it.” vocational education giveguide our children best afford This combination of train- hamas aimed at promotFor Stephanie, being e, education real estate, through all of the educa(TVET) is because we have and training ing will allow her the versa- ing a national dialogue on scholarship andhopes more.that theyawarded tional sectors in order to choice. tility to pursue career will becomea first fields higher education. To share REMISKA WILDGOOSE meant that there were peoingdoctors news and make significant progress While therethatare still and lawyers. Carrange from pathology your thoughts, email gain- STEPHANIE STUBBS, Keiser University Graduate and Lyford Cay ple out there, along with her your mobilein terms of national devel- and look to 2027, when our well-diversified educational duce instantaneous results, be made penters and massage ther- changes neededtotopublic and allied health. anedge@tribunemedia.net. scholar. own supportive family, who ne242.com (Bennell,1996). educational system pro- system is one small but sig- it is an alternative that will our educational system, opment apists should of only the in A TOTAL 790bestuGN-1908 We must see beyond 2017 duces more than enough nificant step towards long- make a tremendous alternative differdents markedwhen the medical end of embracing the fact that qualified, visionary citizens term economic prosperity ence. one chapter of their educawho could build a world in our nation.

For many students at the tion at the inaugural ComWhile further investment Bahamas Technical and class resort that would rival mencement Class of the most. Implementing TVET into developing our educa- Vocational Institute, TVET University of The Bahamas. programmes and having a tional system may not pro- is their only choice because Excited members of the it is what they love. As leaduniversity community, famers, teachers, and parents, ily, friends and supporters it is incumbent that we conflooded the Thomas A Robtinue to embrace TVET as inson Stadium on Thursday, an alternative at all levels so May 25, to witness the hisMinistry Of National Security all individuals can become toric commencement and valuable contributing memcheer for the graduates.

Office Of The bers of society.

Delivering the comlike that of RoParliamentary Stories Department mencement address was chelle, whose name has alumnus and cyber security been changed for the pruexpert Dr Herbert Hugh true catalysts for change. pose of this article, are “Gain An Edge” is a Thompson, chief technolmuch too common. Like ogy officer at Symantec Inc, weekly collaboration of so many others, medical the world’s largest secu- the Lyford Cay Foundaschool did not work out. In rity software company. He tions, Bahamas Technical the end, she still pursued noted that there is nothing and Vocational Institute what she loved - beauty a graduate of UB cannot and University of The Batrades. achieve on the internation- hamas aimed at promotal stage. UB President Dr ing a national dialogue on Sources Rodney D Smith affirmed higher education. To share *Mark Phillips (2012). that University of The Ba- your thoughts, email gainWhy should we care about hamas graduates are the anedge@tribunemedia.net.

DR Herbert Hugh Thompson addressing graduates.

Vocational Education? **Bennell, P (1996).

General versus vocational secondary education in developing country: A review of rates of return evidence.

The Journal of Development Studies.

“Gain An Edge” is a weekly collaboration of the Lyford Cay Foundations, Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute and University of The Bahamas aimed at promoting a national dialogue on higher education. To share TECHNICAL vocational education and training is important to your thoughts, email gainanedge@tribunemedia.net. help students, says Remiska Wildgoose.

A Lyford Cay Foundations scholar aims to serve through medical technology

STUDENT Government Association Senators Traven L Cargill and Jasper Williams-Ward were honoured with the President’s Award presented to the Bachelor degree graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 who have made significant contributions to the university.

AVRIEL R. M. Cartwright received the Governor General’s Award, for earning the highest cumulative GPA over 3.70 and demonstrating consistent excellent performance throughout her academic studies. Avriel has earned the dual degrees: B.Sc. Math and B.Ed. Math.

PAGE 10, Monday, June 19, 2017

THE ICON AWARDS SCENES from Saturday night’s Icon Awards ceremony - for more from the event, see the Weekend section on Friday.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

THE TRIBUNE

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 19, 2017, PAGE 11

THREE CUBANS ESCAPE FROM DETENTION from page one

According to Mr Pratt, the three men broke out from the holding facility between 3am and 4am, leading the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and immigration officers to carry out a search of the immediate area for the men.

However, this manhunt by officials was unsuccessful, Mr Pratt said.

“When it happened, we immediately dispatched teams from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, defence force and immigration in the immediate area and they had no success in discovering them,” Mr Pratt said.

“We also have identified the three males that escaped and sent photographs to the relevant agencies because we want the public to assist us as well.

“We also want the public

to know that harbouring an illegal immigrant is a crime and if they are found guilty of harbouring illegal immigrants - those persons who escaped - they can pay fines up to $10,000 and five years imprisonment. So I hope the public would not harbour them and call us so that we can recapture them.”

While he was unable to say how long the men had been at the detention facility, he said the department

had already submitted information to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their repatriation to Cuba.

In April 2016, five Cubans escaped from the Carmichael Road Detention Centre, but were recaptured two days later by armed forces.

Authorities found four of them hiding in the ceiling of an abandoned building in western New Providence while a fifth man was taken into custody when he was

found wandering in the vicinity of the Detention Centre. He led officials to a dilapidated villa in western New Providence where the four other Cubans had been hiding.

Earlier this year, statistics from the Department of Immigration indicated the repatriations of Cubans had skyrocketed in 2016, which showed that total repatriations increased by some 80 per cent over 2015.

At the time, then For-

eign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said the department believed that the more than 700 per cent rise in repatriations of Cuban nationals in 2016 was driven by anticipation that the United States’ “wet foot/ dry foot” policy was coming to an end.

The Department of Immigration repatriated 1,287 Cubans in 2016, a stark increase over the 153 persons repatriated in 2015.

‘Power to the people’ the solution to helping Family Islands prosper from page one “Bimini belongs to the Biminites just like Guana Cay belonged to the people from Guana Cay. Just like Freeport and Grand Bahama belong to the people from Grand Bahama. The country is called the Commonwealth of the Bahama Islands. It is not called just the Commonwealth of Nassau. And the challenge that Bimini faces and the challenge that every Family Island and so many of the beautiful settlements we have and the environments that we have throughout the Family Islands face is the fact that the government in Nassau treats all the Family Islands and all the settlements and all the people who live in the settlements with no respect.

“And that’s why I’m so glad Mr (Mike) Roberts said what he had to say tonight because he’s right. It’s time for people in the Family Islands to rise up and make sure that the politicians listen to them,” Mr Smith said to an applause from the residents.

Mr Smith said he was not using the forum to promote partisan politics while saying “but it really is the people’s time,” referring to the Free National Movement’s election slogan.

“And the people of The Bahamas now need to make sure this government remembers from Mayaguana all the way up to the Abacos. It is the people’s time to make sure that the government in Nassau and your district councils listen to the people.”

At Thursday’s town hall, Mr Smith told the Bimini residents that his group was not there to tell the people “what should or shouldn’t be done” but wished to stressed that the same issues are faced by all the Family Islands.

“Foreigners, God bless them I want them to keep coming ‘cause they’re going to give us jobs and help us grow and develop, but foreigners come with little brochures and they go and sit in the Office of the Prime Minister and they took up secret deals like the Chinese did in Baha Mar, like they did in North Bimini, like Baker’s Bay and Discovery Bay and Guana Cay. “The problem is our government. It’s not the foreigners, who sit and cook up corrupt deals. Why is it after all these years, year after year, government after government, the people of Bimini, the scientists, everybody knows you’ve got to preserve the environment for Bimini. That’s why people come here. They come to fish, they come to snorkel, they come to scuba dive. I was here last month swimming with the hammerheads. A fabulous experience,” Mr Smith said.

“So I’m so glad Mike Roberts said what he had to say because that’s the point. The people in Nassau who represent you and your district councillors need to listen to you and that’s the big problem.”

“The Bahama Islands used to be a colony of Great Britain. When we got independence in 1973 we simply became a colony of Nassau and that is what has happened. The politicians in Nassau simply use the resources in our Family Islands to make very, very lucrative corrupt deals for themselves,” he claimed.

“And you the people of Bimini have a responsibility

THE SAVE The Bays meeting in Bimini. for your own island.”

Mr Smith said he was glad to be present for the meeting “to experience the power of the people.”

“I can feel the frustration, I can feel the anger, I can feel the despair, the discouragement and the great hope because we have it. We have 400,000 people who live in The Bahamas.

We have five million plus guests a year. Every person in The Bahamas should be rich. We should never be poor people. Why is it that the wealth in The Bahamas has become so concentrated in a small group of white Bahamians and a small group of black Bahamians in Nassau? It’s not fair.”

Speaking of the Bimini Bay resort, Mr Smith said “it is a disgrace to drive through Bimini see the condition of it and when you go through those gates, you walk into Disney World”.

“You got sidewalks everywhere, You have flowers everywhere. You have lamp poles everywhere and all the Bahamians can do is go pick up the towels on

the beach, drive a few golf carts for them, cut up some conch, it’s not fair.

“And so my message to you tonight and the message that Joe Darville and many others from the Grand Bahama Human Rights Association have been promoting for 40 years, is that we need true local government in The Bahamas so that you in Bimini, if you want a casino, you get the casino taxes so you can have a nice hospital or medical centre or school. Or a nice pier.

“You in Bimini through your district council and local government can decide whether they should dredge or not. The prime minister was at the Crown lands office a couple days ago talking about Crown land. But it’s time that the Family Islanders through their local government own their own Crown land.”

Mr Smith said the residents on these various islands should not have to consult with central government officials in the capital on whether they can get a public park.

“You can’t blame the foreign developers when they come and your own politicians that represent you let them abuse you. We should welcome the foreign developers. Save The Bays is not against the government. We never have been. We just want regulated development and local government to say what’s going to happen in your local community.”

“We want local governments to be able to tax, to be able to pass by-laws, to be able to enforce that and to be able to own your own land in your own home. It’s your home.”

Local government started in June 1996 and the Local Government Act provides for elections to take place once every three years.

Last month, the new government’s policies were outlined by Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling in the Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament.

“My government is committed to the exploration and development of the untapped resources of the

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Family Islands,” the speech noted. “Consequently, my government will promote diversification in tourism and banking and promote more Bahamian ownership of these industries.”

“My government will, where practicable, ensure the purchase of locally manufactured goods and services and other supplies. My government will renew the Family Island Incentives Act to promote growth in agri-

culture and manufacturing and support diversification in growth of agricultural produce among Family Islands and encourage and enhance inter island trade. My government will provide for a portion of the revenue collected by the district councils to be used to address local needs. My government will establish a committee to look into the implementation of local government in New Providence.”

PAGE 12, Monday, June 19, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

Minnis reassures homeowners on assistance with hurricane repairs

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

WHILE in Grand Bahama on the weekend, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis met homeowners who had received no government assistance with hurricane repairs to assure them that help was on the way.

Dr Minnis felt that repairs were being handled unfairly under the former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) administration, which left many out of the process.

“It was politically motivated, and we believe in transparency and honesty, and we visited a few homes and will do all we can to repair those homes and get them ready for the new hurricane season,” he said.

“Our administration (here in Grand Bahama) met hundreds of persons who received no help or incomplete assistance, and they are working to help

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis those left out of the process.

“We are working diligently to bring relief to as many as possible. As the debate continues, you will see how irresponsible the previous government was in that some of the issues could have been addressed,” Dr Minnis said, referring to their neglect of hurricane relief assistance to some individuals on Grand Bahama.

According to Dr Minnis, the Free National Movement (FNM) government is working tirelessly to ensure

the recovery and revitalisation of Grand Bahama.

Pledging his administration’s commitment to reduce the high unemployment on Grand Bahama, he indicated that talks are continuing with the parties interested in the Lucayan strip redevelopment.

Dr Minnis is hopeful that the talks will lead to the redevelopment and reopening of the strip in the shortest possible period.

“We also intend on boosting farming and the use of native fruits in Grand Bahama,” the Killarney MP said. “My administration must implement a plan on Grand Bahama to achieve the long sought-after goal of creating linkages between agriculture and tourism to affect a significant reduction in the food import bill for hotels and restaurants, and provide additional employment.

“Grand Bahama has been suffering for a very long time, and the FNM

and I had made a commitment that we will turn Grand Bahama around, to see Grand Bahama as it was when even I as a little boy worked here,” he said.

Dr Minnis said that he went to Grand Bahama every summer and worked at the Princess Towers, installing carpets and drapery.

“I did that as a little boy, that was about 1969 when I was 13 years old and getting paid $105 per week.”

“Imagine if we turn Grand Bahama around, $105 per week in 1969, you know what that is worth today? And that is what you will see happen here, and that is what will happen here.”

When asked by The Tribune about his government’s plans for the International Bazaar and the Royal Oasis properties which had been closed due to hurricane damage since 2004, he said they are looking at that area too and are in ongoing dis-

cussions.

“We hope to have a resolution so people can get back to work as soon as possible,” he added.

On the issue of the cost of power, Dr Minnis said that electricity is a matter, not just of concern in Grand Bahama. He said officials are looking to address it through the implementation of a national solarisation programme.

“Grand Bahama is not excluded. We are blessed with national resources of the sun, and we must utilise it,” he said.

The prime minister said that Minister of Works Desmond Bannister would address capital works projects. These include the water projects in East and West Grand Bahama, the Fishing Hole Road project, renovations to the West End Clinic, construction of the new administrative complex in Eight Mile Rock and new school in Holmes

Rock, and major renovations and upgrade of the Rand Memorial Hospital on Grand Bahama.

Dr Minnis also met with staff at the Office of the Prime Minister in Grand Bahama. He said that the FNM is not about victimisation.

“We have been accused (of) one or two matters of victimisation - that is not our forte. All I ask is for individuals to be professional. I don’t need to know how you voted; I don’t want to know how you voted, that is your business, that’s democracy. But if you work in here then don’t bring your politics here, just work. If you bring your politics here then I will fire you,” he said.

Since the election, Dr Minnis said Bahamians feel hopeful again.

“The country doesn’t feel stressed anymore; it is as if a cloud of calmness and hope came across the country,” he said.

GRAND BAHAMA ‘A TOP PRIORITY FOR THE GOVERNMENT’

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis reassured residents at a victory celebration over the weekend that Grand Bahama is a top priority for his government and revealed some of the initiatives planned for the island.

He said that the hard work of governing has started and that change will come, but it would not be easy or an overnight fix.

Reviving the Grand Bahama economy, he said,

is critical to achieving the country’s national development goals.

“The FNM administration will, along with other initiatives, roll out a workable plan for tourism in collaboration with key stakeholders,” he said.

The island’s tourism sector suffered a major blow following Hurricane Matthew in October 2016, which forced the closure of three major hotels that were significantly damaged.

The island’s hotel inventory was reduced by 40 per cent with the loss of 1,027 guest rooms on the Lucaya

strip. The 482-room Memories Grand Bahama Beach Resort and the 545-room Breaker’s Cay section of the Grand Lucayan Resort have not re-opened since last October.

Dr Minnis said his administration would rebuild brand identity for Grand Bahama, making it a renowned duty-free shopping centre for residents and millions of visitors who come from Florida and around the world.

“Work has already begun to develop new products and market the strengths of each of these three des-

tinations within Grand Bahama,” he said.

Dr Minnis also said the Freeport/Lucaya area will be positioned as a maritime, sports and wellness destination; East Grand Bahama as an eco-tourism mecca and West Grand Bahama as a vibrant cultural village.

Over the long-term, he stated that the government would work towards introducing legislation to make Grand Bahama attractive for international filmmakers to produce cinematic productions at a fraction of the cost, making the island a leading film location.

Dr Minnis also stated that there are new hospitality products which Grand Bahama can benefit from such as vacation rental homes, which are today operating outside of the normal regulations in the country.

“Such products will have to be registered with the Ministry of Tourism, and an appropriate taxation will be applied,” he said.

The prime minister expressed confidence that his team on Grand Bahama will work to bring meaningful change to the quality of life for Grand Bahamians.

“You have an incredible team who have already hit the ground running. Give them the opportunity to work and serve. I do not believe they will let you down,” he said on Saturday evening.

He also stressed that there is no room for petty politics. “Let us… make a new start in Grand Bahama. We must not only talk about the people, but we must ensure that it is really the people’s time.”

On May 10, the Free National Movement won all five House of Assembly seats for Grand Bahama.

GRAND BAHAMIANS THANKED FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE FNM

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis thanked Grand Bahamians for their overwhelming support on May 10 by delivering all five seats to the Free National Movement.

“Because of you, we ushered in a new era for the Bahamas and a new era for Grand Bahama. Grand Bahama our victory belongs to you,” he said at a victory celebration held at FNM Headquarters on West Atlantic Drive in Grand Bahama on Saturday evening.

It was Dr Minnis’ first visit to Grand Bahama since being sworn in as the country’s fourth prime minister.

Dr Minnis said that the people of Grand Bahama spoke loud and clear on May 10. “I am reminded of the biblical story when Jesus healed the ten lepers, and only one returned to say thank you.

Grand Bahama I come here to say to you thank you for your unwavering support, for standing with me in good times and in bad times. And thank you for believing in this Bain Town boy,” he told the crowd.

“I remain humbled by your overwhelming support and confidence. I am honoured to serve as your prime minister.”

“I came to Grand Baha-

ma, and I asked you for five seats, and you delivered all five for me. Would you believe there was no pain and I did not have to perform a caesarean section, you came on your own, unobstructed.”

He added: “In Marco City, you safely delivered one of the hardest working men on our team, thank you Marco City for giving us Michael Pintard. Pineridge you safely delivered the man with a heart, thank you Pineridge for giving us, Fredrick McAlpine. In Central Grand Bahama, you safely delivered a determined young, energetic young man, thank you for giving us, Iram Lewis. In West Grand Bahama and Bimini, you made history, you rewrote the history books, and you safely delivered a talented professional Bahamian woman. Thank for delivering Pakesia Parker Edgecombe.

And now, for the first time in the history of Grand Bahama, you have a deputy prime minister and minister of finance. Thank you, East Grand Bahama for safely delivering Peter Turnquest.”

Prime Minister Minnis thanked the campaign workers for their hard work and sacrifice, and those who made a contribution to the campaign.

“I want to thank that young man before I won the election in Wendy’s who offered one dollar; he was ten

years old, and he offered a dollar and said use this to defeat the PLP. He knows who he is.

“And thank you to those thousands who did not wear a red t-shirt or did not attend our rallies, but came out in large numbers and gave us their vote.”

Also delivering brief remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest said many did not believe when FNM members campaigned and said that they would deliver all five seats in Grand Bahama.

“They said we might get three or four but not five, and well, you showed them, you gave us five. And we came to say thank you so much for helping us to rescue this country,” he said.

Mr Turnquest added that the work ahead is not easy and there will be no overnight success.

“You now heard… how bad things really are, and if we did not do what we did on May 10 how much worse it was going to be. And so, all of us together owe ourselves a loud round of applause.

“I want you to know we don’t take it lightly, we know the responsibility we have to each and every one you here and throughout this country. We will work very hard very diligently but most of all very honestly on your behalf,” he said.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 19, 2017, PAGE 13

Bishop is willing to ‘escort’ wanted suspects to police

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net A PROMINENT pastor has endorsed the recent call by senior police officers for wanted criminals to turn themselves into police custody, charging that he would be willing to personally “escort” those persons to police before things get “bloody” between both sides.

Bishop Simeon Hall, pastor emeritus of New Covenant Baptist Church, called on the country’s criminal element, particularly those wanted for serious crimes such as murder, to turn themselves into police “before the police get them and have to take them in (or) before the mortician got to take them in.”

Bishop Hall also said he is “watching” to see if the Free National Movement (FNM) administration will implement policies that will “send a strong message” to criminals, as he said the change in government “hasn’t bothered the criminal element in the country

one bit.”

A little more than a week ago, senior police warned criminals that there is a “short time” to turn themselves into police custody, as they pledged to immediately take a “zero tolerance approach” towards crime and its perpetrators.

At the time, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police said the RBPF would be “turning up the heat on criminals on the road,” so much so that they have a “small window to operate” in whatever “comfort zone” they are in to evade police capture.

“I would want to join the police in making that call to these young men, they are our sons, and I would make the plea to tell them to turn themselves in,” Bishop Hall told The Tribune on Friday.

“And I would be willing to escort them and I’m sure there are pastors who would be willing to be the mediators for them if they want to turn themselves, before the police get them and have to take them in (or) before the

A DONOR giving blood during the first drive on April 1 at the JEMS Plaza on Pitt Road.

APPEAL FOR BLOOD DONATIONS A MEDICAL student is urging residents to support a blood drive scheduled to be held next month.

Tai Dorsett, of the University of West Indies St Augustine Campus in Trinidad, told The Tribune Friday that her recently founded Bloodline organisation held its first blood drive on April 1 at the JEMS Plaza on Pitt Road.

A second blood drive is being scheduled for July 15.

“There was an awesome turn out for such a small scale event and we’re hoping for larger numbers this time around,” Ms Dorsett said.

“The Bloodline organisation is newly formed just this year of 2017 and having been encouraged by a lecturer, Dr Kenneth Charles at the University of the West Indies St Augustine’s Campus, I wanted to change the social views by encouraging and educating Bahamians on the dire need to donate blood.

“I recently completed my pre-clinical part of medical school and I’m not home for the clinical part, so it was prime time to start making a difference.”

Last week during his contribution to the budget debate, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands stressed that The Bahamas was recently ranked 11th in the world for its homicide rate, triple the rate considered by the World Health Organisation as an epidemic.

Addressing parliamentarians, Dr Sands said the number one cause of death of the Bahamian male is a bullet and a recent crime study shows that between 2012 and 2015, 78 per cent of murder victims in the country died as a result of gunshot wounds.

Dr Sands said between 2012 and 2016, the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) managed 8,000 assault cases, 1,229 stabbing cases, and 1,078 gunshot wounds.

Just last year, the health minister said the Emergency Room saw 1,272 assaults, 246 stabbings and 216 gunshot wounds.

“We are in the world leaders in ways that are destructive to our social and economic well-being. We are one of the leaders in trauma due to gunshots and stabbing. The probability of dying from these types of injuries far exceeds the risk of death from cancer

of HIV/Aids in The Bahamas,” Dr Sands said.

Ms Dorsett, on Friday, noted that the WHO recommends that every country have 100 per cent non-remunerated blood donations, “meaning citizens should voluntarily donate blood without expecting anything in return, or without the urgency of having to donate blood to save a family member”.

“Annually, the blood banks are required to provide an average of 10,000 pints of blood a year to support the country’s needs however they are only receiving an average of 4,000 pints of voluntarily donated blood. This is a 40 per cent donation which is grossly inadequate to support the needs of the country, therefore the blood banks are always in short supply.

“Caribbean countries such as Cuba, Nicaragua, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands have already reached the 100 per cent volunteer donation mark (while) The Bahamas is lagging behind,” Ms Dorsett said.

The medical student noted that a wide variety of conditions including cancer, blood disorders, emergency and routine surgeries as well as renal disease “require blood transfusions and as of right now the blood banks cannot efficiently supply the demand.”

“Healthy persons can donate blood once every eight weeks or six times per annum. The process is relatively painless and can take as little at ten minutes,” she added.

The criteria for donating blood, according to the Red Cross include: the donor must be over 18; have no new piercing or tattoos within 12 months; be in good health and over 110lbs; have no chronic diseases/infections such as HIV, hepatitis, influenza and must not be taking antibiotics. Diabetic and hypertensive individuals interested in donating blood must have their conditions under constant control and an individual must wait four weeks after immunisation to donate blood.

“Although we are a new organisation we intend to hit the ground running and we wish to say a special thanks to JEMS Real Estate, Poinciana Medical Centre, Candace Lockhart and Ariel Weech,” Ms Dorsett said.

mortician got to take them in.

“I think there were eight of them (wanted by police) and I only heard of one that turned himself in, and so before it gets bloody we ask them to turn themselves in.”

Bishop Hall, who has been vocal about the country’s crime woes, particularly under the former Christie administration, further charged that notwithstanding the RBPF’s stern warnings, the Minnis administration must implement policies that would act as a strong deterrent to criminal activity.

“In a nutshell I’m waiting to see very hopefully and optimistically that they will implement some things that will send a strong message to the criminal element,” he said. “You notice that in the last month we’ve had several murders and so the criminal element isn’t afraid in the new change in government, as overwhelming as it has been.

“It hasn’t bothered the criminal element in the

country one bit. And so we have to wait and see if they will implement something that will send a strong message to them.”

He added: “I remember no less a person than the prime minister…he called for the death penalty on several occasions. I haven’t heard anything relative to that. All I’m saying, the one thing I’d like to say is I shall be watching, very hopeful that they would send a strong message to the criminal element in the country.

“And that has not been forthcoming by the old administration, and I think it’s too early to say what this administration will do. But Brother (Marvin) Dames, the minister of national security, he was a former policeman, so he now has a chance to implement some of the things he articulated before the election.”

Meanwhile, retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Thompson told The Tribune that he is “optimistic” in the Minnis administration’s ability to tackle the country’s crime

woes, adding that he thinks that Minister of National Security Marvin Dames is “very capable” of tackling crime and is “on track” towards doing so.

However, he called on the new regime to focus on tackling the “minor crimes” with the same aggression as they pledged to tackle serious crimes with.

“Police morale is up and I expect it will go up even more now, that they have gotten their overtime pay and some of these things have been settled,” Mr Thompson said. “And they are doing good work. All I’m hoping for, and I am seeing something started with that, is that they would tackle the minor crime as well as they’ve been doing the major crimes. I’ve been pushing for this all the time.

Tackle the minor crime.

“Get behind these people who have these strip joints, the people who are running the red lights, the motorcyclist who is riding without helmets and without (licence) plates and bikes that (aren’t) licenced,

the people who are selling food without health certificates. Close down the shantytowns. That is something that I don’t think any politician should be involved in that. They are breaking the law. “ Mr Thompson added: “(Mr Dames) is very qualified…He has the qualifications. He has good ideas, and I feel that he’s going to do well. He must get the law enforcement agencies, that’s the prison, immigration, the police, customs, and the defence force.

There must be collaboration, The intelligence, the efforts that will be made to do things quickly as possible.

“Right now I see the police when they respond quickly, they’re catching people on the scene. And that’s what we were fighting for for years. If we had the technology and could respond within three minutes or five minutes to the scene of a crime you’re likely to get results right there. And I notice that they’re getting some results with that.”

PAGE 14, Monday, June 19, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

SCUFFLE AT PORT OF ENTRY RAISES SECURITY CONCERN

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A VIDEO circulated on social media of two men involved in a daylight argument at Prince George Wharf has raised concern about police presence in downtown Nassau and whether greater scrutiny should be placed on permits granted to individuals who are allowed to sell their

wares in that area.

Two clips, 22 seconds and 56 seconds in length respectively, were shared on Facebook in which two males appeared to be in an argument in which one threw a conch shell at the other that led to a scuffle that required bystanders to pull them apart as locals and tourists looked on.

Attempts to contact officials at the Central Police Station for information

concerning the incident and possible arrests were unsuccessful up to press time yesterday.

The videos attracted criticism from social media users. One wrote: “Unbelievable, wow...where all the police what suppose to be downtown?”

“Disgraceful! The tourists right there watching,” another said.

“Take away their permits to sell goods on (the)

waterfront, tourist attraction areas, since they don’t know how to conduct themselves,” another social media user suggested.

“What kind of tourist product are we selling? No excuse. Get they behind from around there,” another concerned citizen said.

“They don’t know how to conduct themselves. Calling on whomever is responsible!”

Earlier this month, Tour-

ism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar told Tribune Business that the Bahamas needs to improve the experience for cruise ship passengers disembarking at Prince George’s Wharf which was one of several priorities for his ministry.

Two months ago, in April, a minibus driver was shot in the downtown area of Nassau after being chased by his killers.

Hans Neely, a transpor-

tation supervisor at Stuart Cove’s, was driving a bus while being chased.

When he reached the downtown area around 7am, the suspects pulled in front of him and fired shots at him, police said.

The shooting occurred at East Street north, near Prince George Wharf, an area that is usually populated by tourists, cruise ship passengers and downtown shoppers.

THE GREEN Lighting solar car created by students from St John’s College, above and below.

Students in solar car challenge

THE St John’s College Green Lightning solar car team members recently took their vehicle on its final and longest test run before it heads to the Texas Motor Speedway.

The solar car competition will be held in Texas on July 15. The car is being shipped out this week ahead of the team of 20, which includes St John’s College 10th, 11th and 12th graders led by Father Turnquest.

The car was taken on a test run on Saturday from the school to the airport and back, and performed well on the run.

All parts withstood the test, and only slight adjust-

ments need to be made to the tyres. This way, it will be ready for eight hours of competition in Texas next month.

The students make up the only team representing the Caribbean region in this solar car event.

They will be facing tough competition from teams which have the support of major sponsoring companies in the United States, which are technology driven.

For more information, visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/SJCSolarCar/ or their website: http://sjcbahamas. org/news/solar-car.html.

SANDS CALLED ON TO BACK UP CLAIMS from page one

“During his budget debate, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands indicated that the former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) administration awarded $90m worth of healthcare contracts weeks before the general election and made specific reference to the awarding of a $500,000 monthly maintenance contract for the mini hospital in Abaco while the facility was closed, and a $424,000 monthly maintenance contract for the mini hospital in Exuma, by way of the Department of Public Health,” Dr Darville’s statement noted. “These statements are absolutely untrue.

“Firstly, I remind Dr Sands that the general election is over, that the honourable House of Assembly is not a rally stage, and all statements made therein, must be substantiated with facts. I also

wish to bring to his attention that tender documents are neither signed contracts, nor proof of payment.

“Dr Sands should immediately move, therefore, to lay on the table of the honourable House, a copy of the said signed contracts to prove his claims, which is the ‘transparent’ and ‘accountable’ course of action; or he should apologise for misleading Parliament, and the Bahamian people. This is not a political game we are playing; and people’s reputations and livelihoods are at stake.”

Dr Darville noted that while more than 200,000 Bahamians are without health insurance, the Free National Movement “in its short sightedness” has watered down the National Health Insurance (NHI) programme “through significant funding cuts, while giving breaks to wealthy merchants through their tax policy.”

He added: “The PLP rejects Dr Sands’ comment that the government did not receive value for money; as empirical data from our global healthcare consultants and a land mark study verified that NHI would prove to have a positive impact on the country’s GDP in both the short and long-term. Subsequently, we challenge Dr Sands to provide his empirical data to support his opposing claim.

“Furthermore, it is a matter of public record that many clinics, as well as the three public hospitals have been in need of repairs for many years. Therefore, putting the right infrastructure in place was part of the government’s plan to stimulate the economy of the Family Islands, bring islanders back home, and attract direct foreign investments to the southern Bahamas. For those reasons, it was very imprudent of the

health minister to place a dollar value on the health of residents in these islands, when he stated that $14m was too much to spend on the upgrades and construction of the much-needed healthcare facilities in Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador.”

Dr Darville said the PLP will not apologise for launching NHI, which included the upgrading of several medical facilities.

“Nonetheless, to effectively implement our transformative healthcare agenda, infrastructural improvements were necessary on every island, and contracts had to be issued in order to get the job done. To date, just over 22,000 residents throughout the country have registered for NHI. The process was transparent, and we are proud of this achievement on behalf of the Bahamian people.

“It is abundantly clear that the FNM came to office

with a huge mandate, but no plan, which is regrettable, and a disservice to the Bahamian people. The FNM promised the Bahamian people catastrophic health care, but put $15m less than what the PLP was proposing for our selective catastrophic programme, which was scheduled to be launched after the general election,” Dr Darville added.

Last Wednesday, Dr Sands told the House of Assembly that the former Christie administration left millions in unpaid bills for medical equipment, rent, drugs and salaries at the Ministry of Health and the Public Hospitals Authority.

Dr Sands said rather than pay “mothers, fathers and grandmothers” the money they are owed, the PLP government, found the money to award “$90m dollars” of lucrative contracts to people who might be considered “the party faithful.”

“So even though the

treasury could not pay millions and millions of obligations affecting thousands of ordinary Bahamians – many of whom were suffering extreme financial hardship because of the government’s delayed payments, they were authorised, they were directed, Mr Speaker, to make what some would call a political down payment. In addition, Mr Speaker, the side opposite entered into $9,756,006.64 worth of security contracts, janitorial contracts, generator purchases and other miscellaneous items weeks before the general election,” Dr Sands said.

“We have contracts here, monthly cleaning services for the Exuma mini-hospital—$424,638.84.

Monthly cleaning Abaco clinic—the Abaco clinic has not been opened, Mr Speaker—$500,000.

Monthly landscaping services $26,000,” he also revealed.