07252018 NEWS

WEDNESDAY i’m lovin’ it!

HIGH 89ºF LOW 77ºF

The Tribune Established 1903

24/7 BREAKING NEWS ON TRIBUNE242.COM

Biggest And Best!

VOLUME:115 No.168, JULY 25, 2018

THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1

ALICIA WALLACE: SUPERMARKET MADE A MISTAKE - BUT CAN FIX IT

Munroe fights to stop Gibson trial Lawyer alleges: • Witnesses coached • Documents withheld • Prosecution abused legal process

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net LAWYERS for Shane Gibson yesterday filed a notice of motion alleging, among other things, witness coaching and overarching collusion between various police and prosecution units.

The three-page motion, filed in the Supreme Court yesterday afternoon, declared that impermissible witness training and coaching has taken place among the Anti-Corruption and Central Detective Units of the Royal Bahamas Police Force; the

LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes yesterday said he was confident negotiations between the government and Oban Energies over a revised deal will be conducted in good faith.

Mr Foulkes said Oban’s principals have indicated an openness to discuss

amendments to the controversial Heads of Agreement for a proposed $5.5bn oil refinery and storage facility in East Grand Bahama.

“The technical committee had a series of meetings in New Providence and Grand Bahama and is due to present their report by end of the month, so by August 1,” he said.

SEE PAGE SIX

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

AS HE remembered Phenton Neymour as an “excellent addition” to his Cabinet, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said he was saddened to learn of the former Member of Parliament’s death on Monday night.

In a statement yesterday, Mr Ingraham said for the past four years Neymour, 53, fought valiantly against a number of illnesses, which ultimately ended his life.

His courage against terrible odds has been inspiring to all who knew him, Mr Ingraham said.

SEE PAGE EIGHT

‘WHO HOLDS THE FUTURE - LONDON OR OURSELVES?’

Director of Public Prosecution Garvin Gaskin and his office; the attorney for Jonathan Ash, Alecia Bowe and interviewing officer Assistant Superintendent of Police Deborah Thompson.

The motion also declared that in these circumstances, Gibson would be unable to receive a fair trial as guaranteed by Article 20(1) of the Constitution, and that he has been denied his right to adequate facilities for the preparation of his trial defence guaranteed

by Article 20(2) (c) of the Constitution.

SEE PAGE FIVE

GOLD

FOULKES HOPEFUL FOR ‘IMPROVED’ OBAN 2

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

INGRAHAM TRIBUTE TO ‘EXCELLENT’ NEYMOUR

FOR JOANNA’S

BIRTHDAY

JOANNA EVANS, centre, shows off her gold medal after winning the women’s 800m freestyle last night at the 23rd Central American and Caribbean Games in Colombia ahead of her birthday today, fending off the challenge of Allyson Macias Alba, of Mexico, who finished second, and Costa Rica’s Helena Moreno Hernandez, who finished third. See Sports for the full story.

‘HANDBAG HOLD-UP’ NETTED $1M HAUL

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net IMAGES posted on social media of two men alongside two suspects dressed as women are false, according to a senior police official who confirmed there had been no arrest in connection with the John Bull store heist in Grand Bahama, where nearly $1m in merchandise was stolen.

A ROBBER flees the scene.

Assistant Superintendent Terecita Pinder told The Tribune the stolen items valued more than $900,000.

She added there is no truth

to the images circulating on WhatsApp. “No one has been taken into custody in connection with that incident,” ASP Pinder said.

On Monday, two men dressed as women entered the John Bull Store in Port Lucaya sometime around 10am and smashed open a glass display case and stole several luxury brand watches.

SEE PAGE THREE

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIANS will have to decide whether they want a group of judges in London to determine their future or if they want to have control over it themselves, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday as public debate on capital punishment has reignited.

Mr Bethel said yesterday the government believes there must be some intervention when it comes to hanging, whether it be by statute law or by constitutional amendment, despite the Privy Council’s “worst of the worst” standard.

SEE PAGE SEVEN

‘DEMONS’ MOTHER JUDGED FIT TO PLEA

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net A 40-YEAR-OLD woman accused of killing her one-year-old daughter by setting her on fire last year was yesterday deemed “fit to plea,” following an extensive psychiatric evaluation.

Dr Kirk Christie, a psychiatrist, taking the witness stand before Justice Bernard Turner, yesterday testified that Philippa Marshall is capable of entering a plea, if required, in court proceedings.

SEE PAGE THREE

PAGE 2, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

Garvey: Our son’s death has left a void

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net ACTIVIST Troy Garvey, his wife, Charlene, and their children are devastated over the tragic loss of their son and sibling Trey Garvey, who was the victim of a hit-and-run accident last week in Grand Bahama.

Trey, 19, was a well-mannered and talented young man who had dreams of pursuing a singing career according to his father.

Relatives said he was the life and soul of their household, with a gift to sing and make people laugh. They said his death has left a void in the family.

“It hurts,” said a tearful Mr Garvey of his son’s death. “I asked God why … what it is you want for me to do because I know his death is not in vain.”

Mr Garvey said Trey was the last of three siblings – Tranika and TJ. “He (Trey) is up there

in God’s heavenly choir, praising and singing and watching over us. And my six-year-old grandson told me, ‘Don’t cry because Trey with the angels.’”

Because Trey was not employed on his job long enough to qualify for any death benefits from the National Insurance Board, the family is seeking to raise $10,000 for his funeral expenses.

Mr Garvey, a well-known community activist who has been fighting for the rights of citizens for many years in Grand Bahama, said it is difficult, but he is trying to be strong for his family.

“That was my baby, and it is not easy for my wife, daughter, and son, and even our extended family,” he said. “Trey was a very loveable and respectful individual. No matter how I talk to him and how much I debate with him, he always said, ‘Yes, sir.’”

According to Mr Garvey, a singer who recently held a song release event in

TROY Garvey pictured earlier this year.

TREY GARVEY Grand Bahama was very impressed with Trey and his singing abilities.

“He had the opportunity to sing with her, and she fell in love with him; she said he had a character out of this world and she was willing to come back and help him get a record deal; he had a bright future ahead,” said Mr Garvey.

“Words can’t explain how hurtful this is for us; I continue to pray to God for strength and understanding.

And I ask God why; I ask Him to show me why; show me what You are doing.

Tell me what You want me to do. I know it is probably a new fight I will take on concerning the law on these type of accidents; texting and driving, drinking and driving and leaving the scene of an accident.”

Mr Garvey believes that had the driver remained on the scene and called for help, his son may have still been alive. He also claimed that the driver involved did not have a driver’s licence.

The family wants answers about the incident, and are asking persons who may have seen anything or know anything to contact them.

“We want justice and truth for what happened to Trey, and we have been getting some good leads,” Mr Garvey said. “I know my son up there saying, ‘See my daddy gone look out for me he ain’t going let this die.’

We have spoken to a lot of people who have brought some clarity to this case.

“I also want to commend the police and Superintendent Jeremy Henfield who is doing a remarkable job.”

His daughter Tranika Garvey, who lives in Nassau, said that there is an “emptiness” without her

brother at home.

“Without him, it feels empty now because he always made his presence known. We would say he is the baby, but he acted as if he was the oldest of us. He had a very mature mindset for his age; he spoke positivity, and he was a deep thinker,” she said. “You could be upset with him, and he will crack some joke and make you laugh.”

She recalled moments on her visit home of how the three siblings would all gather in the kitchen making jokes, laughing and catching up with each other.

“It hurts to know that it (the accident) happened when TJ and I were not here,” said Ms Garvey. “I am still questioning it, and I have not accepted the fact that he is not here. It should not have happened to him.

He is only 19.”

Mrs Garvey said Trey was a very active child, even as a toddler.

“He was my American Express; I took him everywhere I went,” his mother said, explaining that he got lost at age four in the mall during a trip to the US and she never again let him out her sight after that.

She is appealing to the person who might have picked up Trey from Eight Mile Rock and dropped him off to a certain point

to contact them so they can get some clarity of his last moments alive before the accident.

“He was my baby. I just miss him, and we know he is safe with God looking down on us. But we will now have to get over the pain of our loss,” she said.

Mr Garvey said that his son’s body has not yet been released and a tentative funeral date has been set for Saturday, August 4.

He said the funeral would be reflective of his son.

“There will be no coat suits; we are wearing our jeans, t-shirt, and tennis because Trey was a simple person,” his father said.

He said that it is going to be a musical celebration, and noted that music director Kevin Tomlinson would be bringing all the choirs for the years Trey had been in the Grand Bahama Youth Choir to perform a tribute.

The Garveys said they are very thankful for the outpouring of sympathy and support they have received from family, friends, and persons in the community.

“We would like to thank everyone who has come by to offer their condolences and support because it makes the burden lighter,” Mr Garvey said.

Persons wishing to assist the family by making a monetary contribution can call Mr Garvey at 646-2972.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, July 25, 2018, PAGE 3

‘Demons’ mother judged fit to plea from page one He informed the court Marshall is presently on a combination of prescribed oral medication and a monthly injection, in addition to attending regular psychiatric sessions.

Dr Christie last week testified that Marshall told psychiatric specialists she was coaxed into harming her daughter by “demonic voices” which had been “commanding” her to kill

herself and do other “bad things”.

Additionally, Dr Christie said Marshall also reported being tormented on a daily basis by those demons for the past three years, which she claimed included her being instructed to overdose on tablets and harm herself.

He said Marshall has since reported while she still hears the demonic voices in her head, they now tell her to do “good things” as opposed to commanding her to commit

suicide or other negative acts.

Dr Christie indicated in cross-examination that Marshall would have been mentally fit to stand trial on June 12, when she was last seen by Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre officials.

That indication led the court to request a more current assessment - which took place last Friday.

Referring specifically to that evaluation, Dr Christie yesterday said Marshall acknowledged she hasn’t

had any hallucinations as of late, and that she remains in “good spirits”.

Dr Christie also said Marshall maintained “good eye contact” during the evaluation.

A copy of Dr Christie’s evaluation was submitted to the court as evidence.

Marshall, who is schizophrenic, was charged in April with a single count of manslaughter for allegedly causing the death of Philicia Marshall by means of unlawful harm stemming from the December 2017

incident.

The child died in February this year having been cared for at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Justice Turner in May ordered that a jury determine whether the Kemp Road resident is mentally fit to stand trial.

Prior to her initial arraignment before Magistrate Samuel McKinney, Marshall had spent several weeks at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre due to mental health issues.

She is now listed as an

FROM left, Rudolf Bain, Tyrell Higgs and Taniko Turner pictured outside court yesterday.

THREE FACE COURT ACCUSED OF ARMED ROBBERY

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net THREE men were arraigned on armed robbery charges yesterday.

Tyrell Higgs, 25, Taniko Turner, 36, and Randolf Bain, 35, are accused of robbing Javon Butler of a grey and blue Samsung

cellphone worth $180 on July 19 while armed with a handgun.

The three were also charged with breaking and entering the Learning Resource Centre with intent to steal.

Bain was separately charged with attempted armed robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm

and receiving.

It is alleged that he had a pistol, ammunition and received a grey and blue Samsung phone on July 19.

The men will return to court on November 1 to be served with a voluntary bill of indictment. They were not required to enter a plea.

outpatient there.

Marshall was granted $15,000 bail with two sureties by Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs in April.

As part of her bail conditions, Marshall must live with her sister-in-law.

She is also to have supervised visits with two other children.

Marshall is represented

by Bjorn Ferguson.

The matter will continue this morning, when both the prosecution and defence are expected to address the jury.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

‘HANDBAG HOLD-UP’ NETTED $1M HAUL from page one

The store is known to carry the Rolex brand.

After robbing the store, the wig wearing suspects escaped in a dark-coloured vehicle that was later recovered. The vehicle had been reported stolen earlier that morning.

A similar robbery occurred in Nassau

two months ago when men dressed in women’s clothing robbed the Quantum Duty-Free establishment on Bay Street, shortly before 9am.

It is not known whether the two incidents are related.

Grand Bahama police are appealing to anyone with information that can assist them with their investigation to contact police at 350-3107 through 12, 911, or 919 or the nearest police station.

NO EXTRA TIME TO APPEAL FOR CONVICTED MURDERER A CONVICTED murderer has been denied permission to allow extra time to have his appeal heard against his life sentence.

Angelo Rahming was found guilty of the 2006 murder of Anthony Seymour - known as Troy - after a jury heard how he had shot and stabbed his victim during a robbery.

Seymour, a local pastor and employee of Kentucky Fried Chicken, had been collecting monies from the fast food outlet’s stores in Grand Bahama when Rahming flagged down his truck and jumped inside.

A ruling from Bahamas Court of Appeal recounts what happened next.

“Once in the vehicle (Rahming) produced a firearm and began firing at Troy; he was struck in his face. Nevertheless, he was able to pull the truck to the side of the road, get out and flee. “(Rahming) pursued Troy and continued firing shots at him. Troy sought refuge in a house but (Rahming) followed him inside.

Once inside (Rahming) stabbed Troy 30 times; he died as a result of... severe blood loss. “(Rahming) then exited the house leaving a fatally injured Troy and returned to the vehicle where he retrieved the cash that Troy was transporting on behalf of KFC. He was picked up by one Cruz Kemp who drove him from the scene.

(Rahming) went to a hotel

room where he counted the monies and then telephoned Cruz and told him how much he had taken. “(Rahming) subsequently travelled to New Providence under an assumed name and it was there that he was eventually arrested.

During his arrest he gave an oral confession to police officer Kendal Strachan.”

Rahming spent six years on remand before coming to trial in November 2013 at which he had dismissed his own defence counsel and insisted on presenting his own case.

He had sought now to be allowed permission to appeal his conviction for murder and robbery, first requesting permission from the court to exercise its right to hear his appeal even though he had missed the deadline to lodge his case.

The convict had notified the Court of Appeal of the grounds for which he believed the conviction should be overturned, which included: the trial judge should not have allowed him to represent himself as it was a capital case; the judge failed to properly direct the jury on the credibility of a witness who gave evidence inconsistent with a previous statement; the sentence of life in prison was unduly harsh and severe and the conviction is unsafe and unsatisfactory.

The Appeal Court, however, ruled the conviction and sentence were fair and

no extension of time would be allowed to go ahead with a full appeal, especially as they considered the evidence against Rahming offered him little chance of overturning the verdict.

The court’s judgment read: “Relative to the extension of time application, the intended appellant is 42 days out of time and cites the lag in time before receiving the appeal forms as the reason for his delay.

In any event, the real concern for the court in this case was (Rahming’s) prospects of success.

“From the reading of the transcripts, it is plain the appellant was severely handicapped in representing himself. Consequently, the court cannot say the appellant suffered no undue prejudice due to the judge’s decision to continue with the trial notwithstanding that (he) was unrepresented. However, the significant issue for an appellate court is whether there was a miscarriage of justice arising from an appellant’s lack of legal representation.

Based on the evidence there was devastating identification evidence against the appellant; the fingerprints recovered from the deposit bag and three witnesses gave evidence identifying (Rahming) as the assailant.”

Among the witnesses at Rahming’s trial was Sherona Bain.

The Court of Appeal noted: “She was at her

grandmother’s house when she saw Troy being pursued by (Rahming) and Troy ran into the house. He leaned on her grandmother and said, ‘Someone trying to kill me, could y’all please help me.’ She heard a gunshot come through the wall of the house which caused her to run out of the house and go by her Aunt Otterin’s house and told Otterin what had happened. Her aunt went up to the house while she remained for a few seconds before herself going back to the house. She said (Rahming) was coming outside the front door but before he got outside, she got a good look at his face.

He then took his shirt from the back and pulled it over his head and he ran the way he came.

“She stated that it was a nice and sunny day. There were no clouds. The house had windows. It was bright in the house. She was able to see (Rahming). She identified (Rahming) in court.

She also knew him by the name ‘Bookie’. She also testified that she know Troy Seymour.

“Under cross-examination by (Rahming), she testified that she knew him from school; they went to school together on Hanna Hill. She further testified that she did not tell the police that it was (Rahming) who had committed the offence because she was afraid of (him).

“Otterin Jones: She testified that on November 13, 2006 Sherona Bain ran

to her residence screaming and telling her certain things. She left her home and ran to the house (which was in the same vicinity) where the incident happened. Once there she entered the kitchen area and she saw (Rahming) kneeling over Troy who was on his back, stabbing Troy with a knife. She saw his face for about ten seconds from about one to two feet away with bright lighting conditions. She said as he walked out of the door he took his shirt and put it over his head.

“Jermaine Wilson: He gave evidence that he was driving on Frobisher Drive when (Rahming) flagged him down. He took (Rahming) to Victoria Inn and rented room 111 for the appellant. As they got in the room he saw (the convict) take out money from his Jabo pants that he was wearing at the time. They had small white plastics and elastic bands on them and white paper attached. He saw (Rahming) taking the rubber band and staples out

of the money which he later threw in a garbage can. He took (Rahming) to buy new clothes by a shop called ‘The Haitian Man’.

“In addition to the above evidence there was the fingerprint evidence adduced through retired superintendent of police, Welbourne Bootle, which suggested (Rahming) had come into contact with the purple Bank of The Bahamas International deposit bag... found on the passenger side of the truck Troy had been driving at the material time.

“The Crown had presented a compelling case against (Rahming) which, in our view, no level of advocacy on his behalf would have been able to resist successfully.

“In the premises, we are not satisfied that (Rahming) has a good prospect of success as we have no lurking doubts as to the safety of (Rahming’s) conviction. We are satisfied that his trial was not perfect but it was fair and that (Rahming) was rightly convicted and sentenced...

PAGE 4, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

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-

Published daily Monday to Friday

Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207 TELEPHONES

News & General Information Advertising Manager Circulation Department Nassau fax Freeport, Grand Bahama Freeport fax

(242) 322-1986 (242) 502-2394 (242) 502-2386 (242) 328-2398 (242)-352-6608 (242) 352-9348

WEBSITE, TWITTER & FACEBOOK www.tribune242.com

@tribune242

tribune news network

A property tax which rewards neglect VISITORS to Nassau ride through the historic city wide-eyed, awed by the lines and bones of its architectural heritage and appalled at the number of buildings with holes in the roof or no roof at all, decorated with unsightly graffiti and begging for attention. Years ago, there was a list of such buildings. Dubbed the Dirty Dozen, it shone a light on the buildings that brought nearby property values down and for which Bahamians who took pride in their capital found themselves constantly apologizing and trying to explain why they were left to stand in the heart of a thriving metropolitan and financial services mecca.

The reason dilapidated buildings remain in our midst is unacceptable – tax policy favours the unkempt and inadvertently leads to the proliferation of eyesores. Why? Because the worse condition the building is, short of structurally unsound, the lower its value. The lower the value, the less Real Property Tax its owner or owners will have to pay.

That is a serious flaw in an antiquated property tax policy.

It is, in fact, the exact opposite of what a progressive property tax should be, which would be to incentivize property owners to maintain their buildings and contribute to the overall appearance and health of attractive communities.

Property tax is not intended to punish but it most definitely must not be used to reward bad behaviour. It is intended to help raise revenue to provide for the services communities which are taxed need.

In many countries how the tax revenue is allocated is broken down with specifics so the property owner knows what percentage goes to a fire department for fire and emergency services, how much to the library, the school district. Assessments are based on an average of recent sales of comparable properties in the immediate area or, if in a condominium complex, in that very complex if there is enough activity to warrant any change in assessment from the previous year.

In The Bahamas, neither Bahamians nor expat second home owners have any idea how an assessment is reached nor how our tax dollars are spent on our communities. Taxes collected by the Department of Inland Revenue go into the all-encompassing, ad infinitum Consolidated Fund where one thing we do know for certain is that much of it will go to service the national debt. Not pay down the debt, but service it, much of which was incurred also without our

knowledge, consent or silent assent. The people we elected to represent us spent it and we pay for it. And those who fail to maintain their properties pay less per square foot than those of us who do.

Then there is the further irony of those who pay among the highest rates of real property tax and require the least services from government because they are also paying homeowner fees to an association that looks after the roads, verges, street lighting and private security. If they have school age children, their children are most likely to attend private school.

The time has come to turn the page on Real Property tax, to assess fairly without prejudice against perceived wealth in the Family Islands where individuals and families have expressed every emotion from display to shock at their property tax bills, in some cases valuing land at four times what they just paid for it. The loudest complaints have come from Exuma where real estate brokers have been helping to fight the battle for their clients.

High national debt and desperation for a money grab does not justify penalising those who care for their property.

A valuation system must be an open and transparent process enabling those who are being taxed to understand how their property was assessed and providing detailed information about how their tax money is being spent.

In addition, all Real Property Tax bills should be e-mailed unless the property owner otherwise specifies and payment online via credit or debit card should be made as easy as possible. There should be no need to go to the Department of Inland Revenue to request a property tax bill nor to make a payment unless a discussion is required that cannot be conducted via an online chat. Every prime space in a parking lot that was inadequate to begin with is reserved for a staff member and taxpayers fight for the few remaining spots or wait for a car to pull off from a side road makeshift parking spot or an empty lot across the street.

Surely, in 2018 with a government that promised freedom of information, accountability and transparency the time has come to take a far closer look at the Department of Inland Revenue, the assessment process and taxation that incentivises eyesores and fails to reward historic preservation or the upgrade of clean, well-kept, freshly painted and cared for homes, yards and commercial property.

Postal service collapse EDITOR, The Tribune.

WHILE I know there is a general collapse of the postal service throughout the country, my comments are more specifically related to the Cable Beach Post Office where I have a post box. The Post Office has been closed for quite some time and a sign on the door says they are closed for maintenance “until further notice”.

Who knows when that will end? I have not found any incoming mail in my box there for over a month. Even the openings in the mail drop off boxes have been taped up so that we cannot drop off any mail there. How

can businesses operate without mail service, especially for those of us who depend on overseas mail?

Does anyone in the Bahamas Postal Service know about customer service? If you have to shut the Post Office down, then you should find an alternative way to accept mail, if necessary by installing a temporary box. Why is it not possible for one or two staff members to go in daily at least to collect mail from the drop off box and stuff the individual boxes with inbound mail? Or is it that there is no inbound mail, because the whole system is not working? What are mailbox renters paying

mailbox rental fees for?

Why are taxpayers paying salaries to Post Office workers?

The way the postal service is operating, or rather not operating, is perhaps in violation of obligations under the Universal Postal Union. While there are persons monitoring the progress of the country in improving “ease of doing business”, is anyone monitoring the significant backward steps being taken with basic services such as this? Can we get mail please?

of Valsartan) which was addressed to all the physicians in this region. (Novartis Central America & Caribbean) The letter stated that “We want to emphasise that the active ingredient detected with the impurity is not used in the manufacturing process of Diovan®, CoDiovan®, Exforge®, Exforge HCT® and

Vymada®, so we can confirm that noneof these batches have been imported and/or distributed in the countries of this region.”

Hopefully, the letter will help to clarify some concerns regarding the unaffected brands.

RJ Nassau, July 19, 2018.

Valsartan recall clarification EDITOR, The Tribune.

THERE seems to be a bit of confusion in the general populace and on social media regarding the recent recall of Valsartan, a drug used to treat high blood pressure. The recall did NOT affect ALL brands.

Please see attached, a letter from Novartis (the original manufacturer

BARBARA WILSON Nassau, July 22, 2018.

Epilogue to ganja EDITOR, The Tribune.

IN Jamaica, grass is heralded as the weed of knowledge. If you want to become wise, light up a spliff. Each household can grow as much as five plants.

Small amounts of marijuana for personal use has been decriminalised. It is also legal for religious purposes. Rastafarians can use marijuana openly as a part of their ceremony. Jamaicans are excited about the possibilities of the country becoming a grass tourism destination.

Recently, in Montego Bay, tourists were told not to leave their rooms after a state of emergency was declared due to the increase in violence. For several years, Jamaica has recorded more than 100 murders a month. The following is an excerpt taken from trip savvy. “As most places, murder in the Caribbean are often linked to the drug trade and largely confined to known trouble spots typically poor communities.

“Tourists are rarely victims of homicide, which is why such killings spark

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net headlines when they occur.”

Jamaica is known for its involvement in the drug trade. Hard on the heels of Honduras and El Salvador, Jamaica is rated high on the list in murder per capita.

According to worldatlas. com, some of the most dangerous cities in Jamaica are Montego Bay, Kingston and Spanish Town. Jamaica is also rated high in firearm deaths internationally.

In America, nine states have allowed the use of recreational marijuana and thirty states give it the OK for medicinal purposes.

Grass is now big business in the United States. It is speculated that America is the number one user of marijuana in the world. Of all Americans, two in five twelve and older have used it.

Five years ago, the office of the National Drug Control Policy opposed the legalisation of marijuana and other drugs mainly because legalisation would

increase the availability and use of illicit drugs pose significant health and safety risks.

Several inner cities in states throughout America are burdened down with drug affiliated crimes.

But does all of the above make America unwilling to move ahead in its quest to legalise. In America, the almighty dollar is king and it is willing to sacrifice its people at all cost.

Someone said that when America sneezes The Bahamas catches the cold.

So now that America has decided to lessen their outlook on weed The Bahamas is debating following suit.

The fragrance of the almighty dollar has permeated our nostrils and whetted our appetite. what are we going to do, will we make the same sacrifices as our neighbour to the north or will we stand up for our children? While we ponder on this take a walk down memory lane and relive the nightmare of the eighties of which I am a survivor.

T P Nassau, July 15, 2018.

Why drop the World Relays?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

OF all the inexplicably dumb decisions made by the Minnis government the one to cancel the World relays has to rank among the top five.

Has the government calculated the value this singular event brings to this country? Media attention alone ranks in the millions.

The Bahamas has been given the event year after year because it has been so successful even introducing innovations which have

been copied in other international events, including the Olympics.

In addition to athletes from all over the world who stay in the country for at least two weeks, the event attracts family, friends and lovers of athletics who need transportation, accommodation, food, and entertainment, all of which translates into money in the economy. Additionally, young people are exposed to international experts who can teach them skills, or hone skills already

learned in so many areas including sports journalism.

Is it any wonder that countries such as Jamaica are busily vying for the chance to host the event. Indeed, aren’t these games one of the reasons we have such a wonderful sports complex?

Bad move, Bahamas Government and don’t hold your breath hoping that they will return or that you will attract any others.

JEANNE THOMPSON Nassau, July 23, 2018.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, July 25, 2018, PAGE 5

Munroe fights to stop Gibson trial from page one

Additionally, the motion requested damages for the breach of the applicant’s constitutional rights, orders quashing the voluntary bill of indictment filed in the matter and a stay of the same, in reliance on the Constitution and in reliance on the common law, power to stay proceedings where there has been an abuse of process or an abuse of power by the prosecution.

Lastly, the motion requested costs for the filing.

The document was submitted shortly after Gibson’s legal team was implored to file it by Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs, following a dispute between the lawyers for the accused and the prosecution over the need to turn over various documents in the lead up to trial.

Wayne Munroe, QC, one of the lawyers on Gibson’s team, yesterday told The Tribune that all documents

being requested by his side fall into the category of “serviceable and important” documents.

Gibson’s team has requested the case diary, which documents the circumstances by which two of the prosecution’s lead witnesses were contacted and interviewed; the immunity agreements given to those two witnesses, in full; and various documents from the National Recovery and Reconstruction Unit, where many of the allegations being made against Gibson was said to have originated.

In court, Mr Munroe told Justice Isaacs that he, on several occasions, made formal requests to the prosecution to have the various documents compiled and turned over.

Despite the requests, however, Mr Munroe said there have been no serious attempts to hand the files over to his side. He furthered that the assertion of the prosecution has always been that there is no need to turn over the documents.

A point the prosecution team agreed to in court yesterday.

On August 3, Mr Gibson was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court on 36 bribery and extortion related charges: one count of misconduct in public office, 16 counts of bribery, two counts of conspiracy to commit bribery, two counts of conspiracy to commit extortion and 15 counts of extortion – all of these concerned with Jonathan Ash. The number of bribery and extortion related charges were later decreased to 31, though the amount he is alleged to have solicited from Mr Ash remained the same.

Then just recently, the Crown announced its decision to drop all the extortion charges against the former Golden Gates MP, with the DPP stating at the time that the decision was for the Crown to devote a “singular and simplified focus” on Gibson’s bribery charges.

The matter is adjourned to September 17.

SHANE Gibson outside court previously.

Photo: Terrel W Carey/Tribune Staff

SEARS REINFORCES NEED FOR INDEPENDENT DPP

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel yesterday defended the independence of the Department of Public Prosecutions as he sought to clarify his referral of a matter to the director of public prosecutions.

Mr Bethel told The Tribune on Sunday he had asked the DPP to look into viral allegations concerning a political “war room” and its purported campaign of dirty tricks against Free National Movement candidates in the run up to the 2017 general election, which surfaced on social media last week.

His comments drew the ire of the Progressive Liberal Party, whose Chairman Fred Mitchell condemned the move as “shameful and nakedly political”.

Mr Bethel later clarified that he simply forwarded a video he had received on WhatsApp, insisting there had been no verbal or written request.

However, former Attorney General Alfred Sears yesterday contended last year’s constitutional amendment was passed to avoid any informal contact with the public prosecutor.

“I received a WhatsApp and I passed it on without any comment,” Mr Bethel told media outside Cabinet yesterday.

“I get complaints of

illegality to my office every day. Yesterday,” he continued, “I got a complaint from a foreign person in a high position in another country who said their neighbour is trying to steal their land, and they’re complaining of acts of fraud committed by their neighbour. What do I, as the AG, do with that?

Simple, I write on it ‘DPP kindly review, AG, date,’ and it’s sent to the DPP. “That is no more than I move it off my desk and put it in the hands of someone whose basic responsibility is to deal with issues of criminal law. Mine is to deal generally with the overall situation.

“For a civil matter, I do the same thing with the director of legal affairs because I do not advise myself. I note ‘DLA kindly review,’ that is all that happened.”

Mr Bethel added: “I don’t tell people how to do their jobs, but I do ask them to do it if it comes to me. I just pass on information as I get it.”

The social media claims, which have been strongly denied by PLP officials, allege people were paid by PLP supporters to gather and disseminate false information on FNM party candidates, including new ministers Marvin Dames, Dionisio D’Aguilar and Jeff Lloyd.

Among those claims, were also scurrilous

allegations of “hits” being sanctioned and sex trafficking.

On Sunday, Mr Bethel told The Tribune he referred the matter to the Director of Public Prosecutions Garvin Gaskins because it raised serious issues.

However, those comments have raised concerns over the legislative independence of the DPP as the Constitution (Amendment) Act 2017 mandates all instructions be gazetted.

The amendment came in response to criticism that the government’s bill gives the attorney general power to direct the DPP based on three broad and vaguely defined categories: public policy, national security and international obligations of The Bahamas.

The requirement for directions to be gazetted was described as a feature that would discourage an administration from intervening in the DPP’s work for the wrong reasons.

Yesterday, Mr Sears said he could not speculate over the difference between a formal directive and an informal referral because the current landscape did not exist during his tenure.

However, he noted the scenario described by Mr Bethel concerning his referral of claims made to his office by a foreign national would fall into the category of “international obligations of The Bahamas” due

$14M BUDGETED TO PREPARE SCHOOLS FOR NEXT TERM

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net THE government will spend about $14m this summer to prepare schools for the coming term, Press Secretary Anthony Newbold said yesterday.

This includes $7.2m in school repair contracts, $4.5m in building work contracts, $1.2m in electrical work contracts, $744k in air-conditioning contracts and $699,000 in plumbing work contracts.

It’s unclear, however, when the Minnis administration will make good on its promise to launch a pilot programme featuring single gender classes and schools. Education Minister Jeff Lloyd told The Tribune in February last year the

government planned to “immediately” implement a programme separating boys and girls. Believing “boys and girls learn differently,” he said studies show that young adults thrive better in single gender classes. The promise was also featured in the FNM’s 2017 manifesto.

Asked about the matter yesterday, Mr Newbold said it is “still being discussed”.

He said the matter is not on the “front burner right now”.

“The minister of education himself believes that is the way to go but I think more technology is the focus but there is no timeline yet on the singlesex classes programme,” he said, adding that nailing down the logistics of the programme has

been a challenge for the administration.

Meanwhile, parliamentarians are today expected to debate the Economic Empowerment Zone Bill.

Mr Newbold said they will seek to pass the bill today as well. Afterwards, they will take their summer recess until the end of September or early October. The Economic Empowerment Zone Bill will offer conditional tax concessions to qualified residents and businesses within the economic zone.

Some bills not debated yet include the Fiscal Responsibility Bill, the Integrity Commission Bill and the bill establishing an Office of the Ombudsman. Mr Newbold suggested these bills will be on top of the government’s agenda after its recess.

to various international treaties.

Mr Sears added that if a matter did not fall into one of the three categories set out by the law, then the appropriate action would be to refer it to the police.

“I’m not getting involved in the semantics of it,” he said.

“A direction from the AG to the DPP is only valid and proper in three areas and whenever it is done it must be in writing, signed and gazetted. Now the question is: is what he directed on was it within this category, and we don’t have to debate.”

“These rules are intended to protect and ensure independence,” Mr Sears said, “because independence is essential for public confidence that prosecutorial

powers of the state is never used for partisan political purposes or any improper purpose. That’s why these mechanisms of transparency have been instituted and placed in the legislation.”

“For example,” Mr Sears said, “it would be most improper for me, if I know there is an adversarial interest for me, to communicate with the judge in the absence of someone else.

And that is why the Parliament closed the DPP with the safeguards that when a direction is given, whatever form it takes from the AG, that that direction should be framed within one of three categories, and it must be in writing, and must be signed and gazetted.

“That is part of the safeguard, to ensure the independence of the DPP

so the prosecutorial power of the state is not in the hands of someone who sits in the Cabinet.

“We live in a democratic country in which we are all under the law,” Mr Sears added.

Outside Cabinet yesterday, Mr Bethel said the DPP post has long maintained its independence even before it was fortified by the constitutional amendment.

“I have always treated it as such prior to the passage of the Constitutional Amendment Bill and also when I was first attorney general way back then,” Mr Bethel said. “I have always treated the office as an independent office and nobody gave directions without legal merit on any matter. The fact is I only ask them to do their jobs.”

PAGE 6, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

THE PREVIOUS ceremony to mark the signing of Heads of Agreement with Oban Energies.

Foulkes hopeful for ‘improved’ Oban 2 from page one

Full Military Funeral Service for Retired Police Constable #816 JOSEPH GIBSON, 69 of #27A Key West Street, will be held on Friday, July 27th, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Boyd Road. Officiating will be Msgr. Alfred C. Culmer, assisted

by Rev Fr Junior Calixte. Interment will follow in the Catholic Cemetery, Tyler Street.

His memory will be forever cherished by his wife: Viola Gibson of 44 years; Children and their spouses: Josephine (George) Turner, Joanna (Alexander) Bain, Obafemi Gibson, Omar Gibson, Jessica Gibson, Quinnctin (Lendora) Saunders; Grandchildren: Akio and Montell Musgrove, George & Geno, Georgia, Geovanni and Geray Turner, Zachary Wemyss, Alexio and Alexia Bain, Dillon Gibson, Tamara, Ciara and Analise Gibson, Shazell, Jestin, Angela and Angelo King Bodie, Quinctin Jr., Quinesha, Quinnique, Quinnay and Quintano Saunders; Brother: Patrick Gibson; Brothers-in-law: Nick Thompson, Lester Strachan, Richard Hall, Isaac Cates of Montreal Canada, John and Dennis Cates; Sisters: Rosemary Thompson and Theresa Capron of Freeport, Grand Bahama; Sisters-in-Law: Irma Adderley, Remelda Strachan, Christine Hall, Sonia Cates, Sheryl Cates, Sarah Cates, Elvie Cates of Montreal, Canada, Paula Gibson and Thelma Gibson of Freeport Grand Bahama; Aunts: Frances Ramsey and Lillis Ramsey; Uncles: Alpheus and Philip Ramsey; Nieces: Rachelle Strachan, Susan Rolle, Cindy Williams, Danielle Cates, Daniska Ferguson, Angel Cates, Crystal Taylor, Jeffara and Cornellus Gibson, Laverne Brassen, Dereka Gibson, Albernique Blair, Monique Capron; Nephews: Ruel, Steven and Andrew Strachan, Pastor Tamico Collie, Renauld Williams, Anthony Hall, Raymond Hall, Dede, Timmy and Denson Cates, John Cates Jr., Mark and Kevin Davis, Terrance and Ricardo Capron, Delano Saunders, Jermaine Gibson; Cousins: Anastacia Isaacs, Andrea Ramsey, Anthony Adrian and Alpheus Jr. Ramsey, Spence and Patrice Ramsey and Philip Ramsay Jr.; Host of other Relatives and Friends including: H.L. Rolle and family, Cheryl Turnquest and family, Burdie Davis and family, Gloria Burrows and family, Arthur Seymour and family, Wendell Mortimer and Ruth Mortimer and the Mortimer Family, Mrs. Sonja Knowles and the St. Augustine’s College Family, Yvonne Watson and St. Thomas More Sick and Bereavement Committee, The St. Thomas More Choir, Father Junior Calixte and the St. Thomas More Church Family, St. Thomas More Men’s Club, Dr. Earl Thompson, Dr. Giselle Outten, Ms. Marici Thompson and family, Mrs. Donna Saunders and family, Mrs. Carol Edwards and family, Retired Sargeant #822 Joseph Wilmore ‘Bumpy’ Saunders, Mr. Joel Hinsey, Mr. Bridgewater and the members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Sharmark Bodie, S. ‘Spurler’ Brown and family, #812 Errol Newton, The Burrows Family, Bethany Assembly church family. Willie Mae Pratt Centre for Girls family, The Rolle Avenue and Key West Street family.

Viewing will be held in the Chapel at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Ltd., Robinson and Soldier Roads on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 8:30 a.m. until service time.

“The process after that would be a Cabinet consultation and then we will have a meeting with the principals of Oban to have talks with the view to revising the agreement.

“They (Oban) have indicated that they are open to have a discussion. I do not want to go any further than that until we actually meet but I’m very optimistic that we will come up with a much improved document.”

The Tribune asked if the government was confident about pending negotiations, and whether Oban Energies had any incentive or compulsion to revisit the deal.

Mr Foulkes said: “The full committee had two

meetings in Grand Bahama and we had about two meetings in New Providence with the principals of Oban, and they have agreed in principle with respect to making revisions to the agreement.”

Chief among those amendments is the review and adjustment of environmental clauses, economic terms and several “restrictive” legal conditions now in the Heads of Agreement (HOA), he said.

“Environmental concerns are number one, we want to strengthen all of the clauses that deal with the environment with the view to strengthen the environmental protection.

“Economic benefits, not just for East Grand Bahama but for all of Grand Bahama and the whole Bahamas.

We want to strengthen the economic benefits, this is a $5.5bn project.

“Then we are looking at the provisions dealing with legal requirements and legal framework around which the entire HOA was formed.

“This is a comprehensive study and investigation we are doing, we are taking our time to do it because we want to get it right.”

Mr Foulkes said once a revised agreement is finalised and signed, it will likely be tabled in Parliament.

“The main thing is we are doing this very deliberately,” he said, “and we are making sure that we cover all of the bases.”

The deal has received intense push-back from civic groups, including several of the country’s foremost environmental organisations, since it was first unveiled nearly five months ago.

The fallout prompted an admission from Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis that there were gross missteps in government process.

Oban Energies has reportedly spent $10m on the project so far, according to its president, Satpal Dhunna, who said a significant amount of those funds were used to nail down the best location.

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, July 25, 2018, PAGE 7

Bethel doubts success of shanty town lawsuits

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

AN impending class action suit by attorney Fred Smith, QC, to block shanty town evictions could face serious challenges, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday, as he suggested the government was more concerned about curing the country of these substandard living conditions.

Earlier this month, Mr Smith – Rights Bahamas’ (RB) legal director – said there were around 50 families who had come together to launch legal action in a bid to block the evictions.

Since then, The Tribune has been told this number has grown.

However, considering the country’s laws concerning class action suits, Mr Bethel said it will not be easy for RB to reach a favourable conclusion.

This comes after Haitian Embassy First Assistant Secretary Karl Henri Chatelier, in an interview with ZNS Morning Edition, suggested shanty town residents could either renovate to bring their residences up to building code requirements or lease the land as alternatives to eviction.

Mr Chatelier told ZNS he has been working with local clergy and the Haitian community to help develop alternatives to residents being evicted from shanty towns, while bettering the conditions of those areas.

He also said the government’s August 10 eviction deadline did not give residents enough time.

“The courts are there and if anybody has a right to take an issue to court they are welcome to do so,” Mr Bethel said outside Cabinet yesterday.

SHANTY town notices being handed out recently.

“But that won’t cure the “When I last weighed in on this matter there was the issue of not having built suggestion that there was in accordance with code. some possibility that there That won’t cure the issue of was some class action law having an unsafe structure. suit and I just made the point That in and of itself won’t that our law on class action cure the issue of the oversuits is very strenuous and all atmosphere, the overall it’s very detailed. You have conditions in shanty towns to have exactly the same and that would be something that would be peculiar interests in everybody.”

He continued: “Now to the individual not to the someone who claims that shanty town.

“We’re not going to try they have been squatting on someone else’s land for a and adjudicate individual period of time, if they meet people’s rights, that’s their the criteria and of course right to do for themselves. are able to go to court and Our job is to clean up the have whatever right to con- environment to ensure that tinued occupancy that they wherever there is building, wish to assert, defended or just like with every other person in this country, is upheld by the court.

‘WHO HOLDS THE FUTURE - LONDON OR OURSELVES? from page one

A constitutional amendment would mean a referendum would have to take place before any changes are made.

This is not the only possible change up for consideration.

Presently, drafting personnel are also looking at fixed election dates, Mr Bethel told reporters.

He said: “We have been looking at several drafts on terms like the fixed election date, which was a promise and a lot of thought has been going into this question of capital punishment. You know a standard has been set by the Privy Council of the ‘worst of the worst’.

“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. There is always something worse than the worst so it’s a standard that could might never be met.

“We feel that there has to be some intervention whether by statute law or by constitutional amendment to settle this issue and so that is what we are going to look at. And so, if it’s a constitutional matter, it’ll go to the people. If it’s merely a statutory matter it’ll go to Parliament.”

Asked to say how realistic it was for this to be done within this term, Mr Bethel said: “It depends on who the Bahamian people want to determine their future on an issue like this. Do they want some judges in London to do it or do they want to have a say on it?

“I think at the end of the day that’s going to be the question.

“We as a people will have to decide where we want to go on this issue that would be in my view the preferable way to go - let the Bahamian people decide rather than a few unelected judges in the United Kingdom.”

ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he has no issue “hanging” any person convicted of murder and “moving on”.

The comment came as he insisted his long-held views on capital punishment have not wavered since being elected to office in May 2017.

Addressing reporters as he left Calvary Deliverance Church following a service, Dr Minnis made it clear if it was up to him, people convicted of murder would be hanged without any remorse on his part.

He was responding to questions over the potential for amendments to the Juries Act as referred to by Press Secretary Anthony Newbold last week.

According to Mr Newbold, the House of Assembly is expected to soon debate amendments to the Juries Act, clearing up some provisions to the death penalty for murder.

In response Sunday, Dr

Minnis said: “Let’s get it clear, I am a strong advocate of hanging. That has not changed. That will not change. However, I am bounded by the laws. But I am a strong advocate for hanging.”

When asked if there were plans being considered by his administration to take the capital punishment debate to referendum this term, Dr Minnis said the issue remains a matter that has to be discussed by his Cabinet before any further moves.

Nonetheless he said: “What everybody knows, the world knows, The Bahamas knows that I believe in hanging. I have no reservations about hanging you and moving on.”

Although the law allows for capital punishment, the death penalty has not been carried out since January 2000. That year, David Mitchell was executed for stabbing two German tourists to death.

building according to code with appropriate permissions from appropriate technical officers in the Ministry of Public Works and in conformity with the building code, that conditions in every community are to the best of our able ability to ensure it is sanitary and that proper standards are maintained.

That’s what we are doing.”

The August 10 deadline is just over two weeks away and in a shanty town off Carmichael Road, many residents expressed concerns about this timeline.

The Tribune canvassed the area on Monday.

A woman who gave her

name as Rose, who lives with her mother, three children, and a disabled brother, said the deadline is too short.

“They came here and told us… after 28 days we have to move,” she said. “That is too short. A lot of people around here, they have like more than two or three kids, and some of them they don’t work and people don’t want people with children in (their) apartment.

“I feel as if 28 days is too short.”

When asked how long she would recommend the deadline be extended for, Rose suggested three months.

I could understand if they gave the people them three months… Those who ain’t working, they could find (something) to do, save up money.

“Because when you look at renting an apartment, you have to pay first, last and security. “And that’s like over $1,000, like $1,500 dollars. You should at least give the people an opportunity to try find that money, and in 28 days it’s too quick to find that money.”

Rose also expressed concerns about the levels of crime in the communities where the government is suggesting shanty town residents relocate.

PAGE 8, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

Ingraham tribute to ‘excellent’ Neymour from page one The former prime minister joined two Cabinet ministers yesterday – Health Minister Dr Duane Sands and Attorney General Carl Bethel – in remembering Neymour, who was praised for being a “phenomenal” and “passionate” political figure.

He died following a battle with stage three-colon rectal cancer beginning in 2014, which caused other health challenges. However, the cause of his death has not been revealed.

Mr Ingraham said: “I was very pleased to welcome Phenton, along with his fellow traveller, Charles Maynard, into the FNM tent following the dissolution of the CDR (Coalition for Democratic Reform) ahead of the 2007 general election. Phenton proved to be an excellent addition to my Cabinet in which he served, first as minister of state in the Ministry of Public Works, and later as minister of state for the environment.

“Phenton was an enthusiastic, dedicated nationalist who believed in young people and used his time in frontline politics to support and promote policies he believed would augur to the benefit of our people.

“He loved his country and was dedicated to his former constituents in South Beach and very especially to the people of Exuma, the land of his heritage.

“Phenton was an engineer by training, importantly, he was an avowed environmentalist and was

PHENTON Neymour pictured after voting in last year’s election. committed to ensuring that family. May he rest in the footprint of develop- peace.” ment, so essential for the Former Minister of Enviprogress of our people, was ronment Earl Deveaux, environmentally conscious who worked closely with and responsible.

Mr Neymour during the last “He will be warmly Ingraham administration, remembered by myself, remembered his colleague his former constituents, as one fully committed to by his many friends in the his work who did not shirk Free National Movement from tough situations. and by Bahamians from all “I especially appreciated walks of life,” Mr Ingraham his insight into the envicontinued. ronmental issues related “My wife Delores joins to power generation, sewme in extending sincere erage, and solid waste condolences to Phenton’s management,” Mr Deveaux wife, Cutelle, his four chil- said in a statement. dren, his mother, Ena, “He was clinical and siblings and extended objective in his analysis and

always sought to determine a fact-based process of measuring results or making decisions. He felt strongly about our nation’s waste disposal system and worked hard to address the issues when he had the opportunity. Our country benefits today from his stewardship on the widespread use of energy efficient lighting, the existence of a robust energy policy which he led and the continued implementation of the water mains replacement in New Providence through the multi-year project currently being executed by (Water

and Sewerage). There is much more but among the high points of political stewardship, I rank these as his most enduring contributions to our nation’s well-being. “...Phenton fought a tough battle with a debilitating illness. He fought as I found he always did, with courage, thoroughness and the support of his close friends and family.

He has lost that fight. But all who knew him bear witness to his courageous fight.

I hope he will be remembered for standing up when it counted, joining the fight of life and seeking to make a difference for his country and his people,” Mr Deveaux said.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, Dr Sands said the country is a “little worse off” because of the former South Beach MP’s death while Mr Bethel went on to describe Neymour as a “fallen soldier” who was committed to the Free National Movement.

“Phenton was a phenomenal and towering figure in politics and a good man and a good friend,” Dr Sands said outside of Cabinet.

“I would have had an opportunity to speak to him a number of times over the past few weeks and to see his strength even against incredible odds was refreshing. I benefitted a lot from his advice and his friendship and I think the country is a little worse off now with his loss.

“I think we should all appreciate the contributions that he’s made, the passion that he brought to the fight and to offer condolences to his family,

to his wife, to his children and to all of his loved ones.”

A statement from the Cabinet Office expressed condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.

Earlier this month, Neymour spoke out about his health, announcing his support for medical marijuana, saying that the treatment had helped save his life while fighting cancer.

He also told The Nassau Guardian: “You got to enjoy now. You don’t know what tomorrow brings; that’s why I have enjoyed the time with my wife, I count each day as my last day, that’s how I live now.”

Neymour was sworn in as minister of state for public utilities in May 2007.

After a Cabinet shuffle, he served as minister of state in the Ministry of Environment from 2008 until 2012. He had over 15 years flying experience with both American and British pilot licences and rating.

A former officer of the Coalition for Democratic Reform, Neymour was also involved in the trade union movement serving as president of the Water and Sewerage Corporate Management Union and as the assistant secretary general of the Trade Union Congress.

He had expressed disappointment before last year’s election that he had not been chosen as the FNM’s candidate for Exuma. During the last PLP administration, he was a regular critic of Leslie Miller’s tenure as chairman of what is now Bahamas Power and Light.

PAGE 10, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

Super Value made a mistake but they can still put it right LAST week, Super Value president Rupert Roberts said the company will no longer provide enhanced maternity costs.

The company practices a form of self-insurance, setting money aside to cover medical costs rather than engaging an insurance company which could cost more money. It has decided to discontinue maternity payments it makes which are on top of the statutory requirement in order to have more money available for catastrophic illness and life-saving treatment.

Roberts claimed this decision came as a result of the increase in pregnancies over the past 24 months.

He added that covering the expenses is “no problem”, but the company wants to keep its reserve big. He then said he hoped this change in policy would impact employees’ sexual behaviour, noting that some had been caught having sex at work. He suggested that young women — whom he referred to as “girls” — specifically want to work at Super Value to benefit from

By Alicia Wallace

the maternity coverage.

This is a preposterous assertion as maternity coverage does not come close to the cost of having a child, but if it is a strategy for reducing the initial cost, some might call it family planning.

RUPERT ROBERTS

The public debate sparked by Roberts’ comments zeroed in on a number of concerns, but there are others that did not get the same attention. His comments leave quite a bit to be unpacked.

Compensation is not a gift Far too much of the conversation about Super Value discontinuing coverage of maternity expenses frames it as a gift or a kindness. Health care is essential and, aside from public health services, insurance is the only way it is possible for many people. Health insurance is also expensive, especially for women. When asked why health insurance for women costs more, insurance agents say it is

because women give birth.

It is assumed women will, at some point, become pregnant and give birth.

Not only is that assumption made, but it is built into health insurance plans to ensure those expenses can be covered, at least in part. This is considered essential, from prenatal to postnatal.

Most of us do not work for fun. Some of us are fortunate and innovate enough to enjoy what we do for a living, but compensation is a part of the deal. Employers offer compensation packages. These packages can include money, vacation time, flexible schedule, incentives, a company vehicle, and yes, you have probably guessed it — health insurance.

Employers are not always able to offer a salary that adequately compensates for employee output, so there are other components in the package. In some cases, employees can even take study leave, bring their children to work, or access special offers and discounts.

Most employers, however,

GN 2054

include health insurance in health care. It means they their compensation pack- want to have sex. All Robages. Sometimes employees erts needs to concern contribute to the group himself with is ensuring plan, and sometimes the sexual activity does not employer covers the cost. happen at work.

This is not extraordinary,

and it is not an act of benevCreating an unsafe work olence. It is earned. environment Super Value has not It is clear from the conbeen doing its employees a versations about these favour; health coverage is a comments that Roberts part of the package because has created an unsafe envithe salaries alone are not ronment for the women sufficient compensation. working at Super Value. In

particular, cashiers are very Right to have sex as adults visible as they are on the It has been said that sex frontline and have the most is a national pastime, right interaction with customup there with drinking alco- ers. Men have shared their hol. This is not exclusive plans to go and “get a Super to Bahamians. It is not a Value woman”. special fact about young In a misogynistic socipeople. It is not limited to ety where sexual education a particuis lacking, lar gender. rape culture People have It is understandable is seen as sex because for an employer normal and it feels good. to be upset about sexual harConsenting assment is adults have employees having a common the right to sex on company occurrence, enjoy sexual property. It is, it is irreactivity.

At sponsible times, people however, ridiculous to publicly choose to for an employer share a narhave sex in to bring that issue rative about inapproprithe women ate places for to the public. working in a range of the stores. At reasons, from not having the very least, Super Value access to a private space to needs to make a public looking for an extra thrill. It apology to its employees — happens. specifically the women — as It is understandable for well as reverse its change to an employer to be upset the compensation package about employees having sex and increase security at its on company property. It is, stores for the protection of however, ridiculous for an the women it has made paremployer to bring that issue ticularly vulnerable. to the public. If it is true

that employees are having Sexual education sex — and we must keep in opportunity mind we only have Roberts’ It is no secret sexual word for this — there are education is either nonbetter, more effective ways existent or woefully to deal with it. There should lacking in most schools. be a conversation with the This has always been the staff which may be accom- case, so there are thoupanied by new policies sands of adults who do not and consequences. These have critical information. policies and consequences, Now is a good time to do however, do not need to some research, visit a medinclude public lambasting ical professional, or get and shaming or the loss of other resources to learn compensation owed to all about sexual and reproemployees. ductive health and rights.

Again, it is important to It is an excellent time for note we do not know what Super Value to bring in proRoberts said is true. If it fessionals to talk to staff, is, he has a strange way of conduct HIV testing, give dealing with the issue. I information on STD testing find it difficult to believe and offer male and female the behaviour would be condoms. repeated to the extent he With its large reserve suggested if it had been and the amount of money appropriately addressed it stands to save since it internally. Even if employ- has cut maternity coverage, ees have been behaving the company can certainly this way, it is unacceptable afford to pay non-profit to punish them or try to organisations for a few change their behaviour by hours of work. Make it a altering their compensa- community event. Invite tion packages and publicly the general public to visit sharing the details of the booths, get free condoms, situation. It is also pater- learn the correct way to nalistic of him to suggest store, open and put on conthe loss of maternity cover- doms and engage with sex age might stop them from educators. having sex.

The company made a People have sex. It does big mistake, but should not not mean they want to have ignore the opportunity that children, or want to ben- now exists. There is a lesson efit from “free” maternity for everyone to learn.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, July 25, 2018, PAGE 11

POLICE SHOT INNOCENT BYSTANDER LOS ANGELES Associated Press

A GREEK national flag flutters over the charred remains of a burned-out car and house in Mati east of Athens, yesterday. Twin wildfires raging through popular seaside areas near the Greek capital have torched homes, cars and forests.

Photo: Thanassis Stavrakis/AP

Beachgoers trapped by fire bring Greek deaths to 74 RAFINA, Greece Associated Press THE death toll from Greece’s deadliest wildfires in decades climbed to 74 yesterday as rescue crews searched on land and sea for those who sought to escape the blazes that engulfed popular summer resort spots near Athens.

The number of victims appeared set to go even higher, with crews checking charred homes and vehicles and the coast guard scouring beaches and deeper waters. There was no definitive count of the missing.

Fueled by 80kph (50mph) winds that frequently changed direction, the fires — one to the west of Athens near the town of Kineta and another to the northeast near the port of Rafina — spread at speeds that surprised many, trapping hundreds on beaches and cutting off escape routes.

All the casualties appeared to be from the fire near Rafina, a popular seaside area that is a mix of permanent residences and vacation homes. The blaze broke out on Monday afternoon during a hot, dry spell but the cause was not

immediately clear. Aerial photos showed charred swathes of forest and homes.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras declared three days of national mourning. Apart from the dead, which included children, hospitals treated 187 people, most for burns, with ten listed in serious condition.

Although it had abated by Tuesday afternoon, the blaze was far from extinguished and more than 230 firefighters were still trying to put it out, helped by volunteers and water-dropping aircraft. Another five fires continued to burn, with flare-ups reported in the blaze near Kineta. Authorities ordered the evacuation of some communities as a preventive measure.

Authorities urged the public to contact them about the missing.

Many took to social media, posting photos and what was believed to be their last location before the fires hit.

Twenty-six of the dead were found after dawn yesterday, huddled in a compound near the sea in the community of Mati, the worsthit area near Rafina, about 50km (30 miles) west of Athens.

Red Cross rescuers said they

HUNDREDS MISSING AFTER DAM COLLAPSE BANGKOK Associated Press

MASSIVE flooding from a South Korean-constructed hydroelectric dam in Laos left several people dead and hundreds missing, state media said Tuesday.

Rescue efforts were underway as top government officials rushed to the site and public appeals were launched for aid.

The official Lao news agency KPL said part of the Xepian-Xe Nam Noy hydropower dam in southeastern Attapeu province collapsed Monday evening, releasing large amounts of water that swept away houses, flooded villages and made more than 6,600 people homeless.

The website of the state-run Vientiane Times newspaper said two people were confirmed dead as of Tuesday afternoon and the government had declared the area an emergency disaster zone. It said continued rain and strong winds predicted for the next few days could make the situation worse.

KPL said the disaster “left hundreds of people missing”, without providing details.

Many areas of Laos have recently been hit by floods from heavy seasonal rains.

The dam was built by a joint venture led by two South Korean companies with Thai and Lao partners, and was still under construction.

SK Engineering & Construction, one of the two South Korean partners, said in a statement that “part of the upper area” of one of five auxiliary dams at the project “got swept away” Sunday night after several days of heavy rain. It said the auxiliary dam consisted mainly of earth and rock.

SK E&C said repair work was hampered by heavy rain, and damage to the dam worsened on Monday, causing water to overflow and flood seven out of 12 villages in the area. The company said it joined rescue efforts and was trying to contain further damage.

Photos and videos posted on social media showed people sitting on rooftops to escape the surging water, while others were carried to safety or rescued by boat.

State media said helicopters were also being used to rescue people.

Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith suspended his government’s planned Cabinet meeting and traveled with fellow ministers and other senior officials to Sanamxay district to monitor rescue and relief efforts.

Provincial authorities issued a call for emergency aid — clothing, food, drinking water, medicine, cash and other items — from the “party, government organisations, business community, officials, police and military forces and people of all strata”.

appeared to be families or groups of friends because they were found hugging in groups of threes and fours.

Hundreds of homes and cars were believed to have been burned.

Many vehicles were found with the keys still in the ignition and doors open, a sign of the urgency with which their occupants sought to flee the flames. Narrow roads quickly became jammed, forcing many to try to escape on foot. The ferocity of the fire melted cars’ metal hub caps.

Many ran to beaches, but even there the fire got so close and the smoke was so thick that dozens swam out to sea despite the rough weather.

Coast guard and private boats picked up more than 700 survivors from beaches and the sea — but also recovered six bodies.

“It happened very fast. The fire was in the distance, then sparks from the fire reached us. Then the fire was all around us,” said Nikos Stavrinidis, who had gone with his wife to fix up his summer home for a visit by his daughter.

Stavrinidis, his wife and four friends swam out to sea to escape

the smoke, but they quickly became disoriented, losing sight of shore and being swept out farther by the wind and currents. Two of his group didn’t survive.

“It is terrible to see the person next to you drowning and not being able to help him,” Stavrinidis said, his voice breaking. The rest of the survivors were picked up by a fishing boat with an Egyptian crew who jumped into the water to rescue them.

Rafina’s dock became a makeshift hospital overnight as paramedics examined survivors, some wearing only their bathing suits, after being dropped off by rescue boats.

Rafina Mayor Evangelos Bournous said his home had burned down and his family escaped by going into the sea.

The speed of the fires caught many by surprise.

“Everything happened in seconds,” said Andreaas Passios, who lives next to the compound in Mati where the 26 bodies were found. “I grabbed a beach towel. It saved my life. I soaked it, grabbed my wife and we ran to the sea.”

Passios said he and his wife stayed by the sea for two hours.

A SUPERMARKET worker was killed by a bullet fired by Los Angeles police — not the gunman they were trying to stop — the city’s police chief acknowledged yesterday, defending the decision to use deadly force as an attempt to stop what officers feared could become a mass shooting.

The suspect, Gene Evin Atkins, 28, already had shot his grandmother, kidnapped his girlfriend and shot at officers on Saturday afternoon as they chased his car and then as he ran into the Trader Joe’s in the city’s congested Silver Lake neighborhood, according to police.

After exchanging gunfire with police, Atkins ran into the store and took about 40 people hostage, police said.

Two officers fired back at Atkins just as the store’s assistant manager, Melyda Corado, 27, was walking out the door. One of the rounds went through her arm and into her body and she died at the scene, Moore said.

No other bystanders were shot.

‘CLASSIFY COSBY AS PREDATOR’ By the Associated Press A PENNSYLVANIA board recommended that Bill Cosby be classified as a sexually violent predator, which would require the former TV star to attend sex offender counseling — in prison and out — and police to post warning flyers throughout his neighborhood whenever he is freed.

It is now up to a judge to decide whether to accept the finding by the Pennsylvania Sexual Offenders Assessment Board.

The district attorney’s office that prosecuted Cosby asked a judge on Tuesday to schedule a hearing in the matter. No date was immediately set.

“We will see them in court,” responded Andrew Wyatt, Cosby’s spokesman.

The 81-year-old Cosby was convicted on April 26 of aggravated indecent assault and faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced September 24. He has denied any wrongdoing, and his representatives said he will appeal.

PAGE 12, Wednesday, July 25, 2018

THE TRIBUNE

‘I didn’t know Royal Wedding sermon would cause a fuss’

By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net AMERICAN Bishop Michael Curry, the presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church who delivered the sermon at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May, admitted that he did not initially realise how effective his sermon was, and is often asked, especially by incredulous young people, whether he truly believes these words.

Bishop Curry spoke at Christ Church Cathedral on Monday night, launching the 50th anniversary meeting and conference of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE).

The event runs until July 27 at the Melia Resort in Nassau.

During his sermon on Monday night, Bishop Curry’s words echoed the theme of his royal wedding sermon, focusing on the power love has to change the world.

Bishop Curry also called for more love to lead the way, particularly pointing to the US government and criticising the Trump administration’s policy of separating immigrant families in detention centres.

Regarding the royal wedding, Bishop Curry said, “I didn’t know that anybody had paid attention to anything except the wedding gown and the bride. I didn’t know.

“And then I got to Heathrow Airport the next morning and people were taking pictures, and I said, ‘why are these people taking pictures of me?’ And all of a sudden, my whole staff, they were inundated with press requests and the media and when I got back to New York, one of the first interviews that I did was with Harvey Levin at TMZ.” Bishop Curry said the interviewer asked a question that has “perplexed him” since it was put to him.

“He said to me in that interview, ‘we really want to believe you. The young people who watch TMZ and listen to TMZ, we want to believe that love can change us and change this world. But it’s hard to believe that. Do you really mean what you say? Is love really the way?’ “…I’ve been with several groups of young people since then,” Bishop Curry continued. “And do you know that question has come up repeatedly? They want to know can love change this world that is bent on self-destruction?

“They want to know, young people in the United States, is love the way when lying and duplicity seem to be the order of the day from the highest precinct of power?

“What would the Episcopal church look like if love was the way? What would the White House –,”

he began, before he was interrupted by a raucous response from the audience.

“We’d have a different America, probably a different occupant. But love would make the difference.”

Bishop Curry also described a recent visit to a detention centre in the United States.

“At our general convention, we gathered on Sunday morning, probably 1,000 people. Episcopalians got on buses, and rode from the city of Boston to a woman’s detention centre.

The Hutto detention centre. We had a prayer vigil, to make a public witness, because we follow Jesus Christ. He has taught us that we should love the Lord our God and love our neighbour as ourselves.

“So, we went to Hutto detention centre, with barbed wire on the outside.

Grey granite buildings, with small windows, where women, who had been separated from their children, in America — separated from their children— were housed and confined.

“And we had a service, and bore witness. And we reminded America, we had a revolution once. We celebrated on July 4, 1776, that on that day there was issued a Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, who did not always live up to the words that he wrote. Sally Hemmings knew that. “…. But whether he lived

BISHOP Michael Curry speaking in Christ Church Cathderal. up to it or not, the words are true. ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men, that all people are created equal. And that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. That among these rights are the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“That all people are endowed not by a parliament, not by a congress, not by a plebiscite, not by a pope, not by a priest, a potentate, a prime minister, or a president. All people are endowed by their creator, by the Lord God

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

Almighty, with certain inalienable rights.

“All people. And that’s not just American people.

That’s all people. All people are children of God…. loved equally by God and meant to be treated equally in the eyes of man. All people. Not just some of us, but all of us. And we stood there and bore witness.

“And some in the group stood up and they went up as close as the police would let them to the detention centre. And they had signs that said, ‘God loves you’, ‘we’re here for you’. And they shouted to the women,

‘God loves you. God loves you.’

“Most of the women inside spoke only Spanish. But the Holy Spirit did some translating. (Because) they understood what we were saying. And inside, the women had towels.

And they were waving their towels in the window, and they were shouting, ‘we love you! We love you!’

“Now that day, we did not break down the walls. But let me tell you something — it took seven times going around the city of Jericho until those walls came tumbling down.”