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FNM DEPUTY CONCERN AT CCA ROLE ON CLAIMS

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest is reiterating his criticism of the inclusion of a representative from China Construction America on the committee that will handle Baha Mar creditor and employee payouts after it was revealed that the group will not deal with payouts to creditors owed money by CCA. SEE PAGE SIX

‘Ball dropped’ over SCOTIABANK CELEBRATES 60 YEARS IN THE BAHAMAS preparing site for rental generators

By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net  BAHAMAS Power and Light has been “temporarily patching� its troubled equipment but until its rental generators are installed there is “no way to tell� when frequent power outages will end, an official said yesterday.

BPL’s Corporate Communications Manager Arnette Ingraham admitted that “someone dropped the ball� when it came to preparing the site for BPL’s rental generators, but said the company is “hoping� to have them installed by the end of “next week�.

And one week after BPL began daily outage rotations throughout New Providence, she said the corpo-

ration is finally in a “safe zone�. “We have an engine at both Blue Hills and Clifton that have had challenges,�

Mrs Ingraham said. “When we have these issues it all seems to happen at one time and the problem is we just don’t have any spare reserve. So if we have a challenge with a machine we cannot take it off line and fix it. “So what we are doing is temporarily patching and fixing the problem just to get the engines up and running to stop the outages.

We have not had maintenance on the machines to the level that we would like and (when) one engine goes off, we get it back on and then two engines go down.

SEE PAGE SIX

DNA: LABOUR LAWS MOVE IS A SHOW FOR NATION’S WORKERS

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net  THE government’s proposed changes to the Employment Act are nothing more than an attempt to “appease� the country’s labourers because of its “dishonesty� in handling the shock mass redundancy action by Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort, DNA Leader Branville McCartney said yesterday.

Mr McCartney told The

Tribune that the Christie administration’s proposal to criminalise mass redundancy without government consultation could negatively affect the business community and ward off potential foreign investors.

He said a “balance� needs to be struck in implementing fair labour laws and creating an environment that is “very conducive� to conducting business in the country.

SEE PAGE SIX

NEW

MICHAEL HALKITIS, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance; Sean Albert, vice-president and district head Caribbean North, Scotiabank, and Anthony Allen, chairman of the Scotiabank board, cutting the cake to mark the bank’s 60 years in The Bahamas. See page 13 for more photographs from the event.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

LIGHTBOURN ‘SHOULD NOT BE DAMES CONFIRMS APPROACH RULED OUT FOR COMMENTS’ BY FNM FOR ELECTION RACE

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette said yesterday that Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn’s controversial remarks about having women’s “tubes tied� should not cause him to be denied a nomination as he has apologised for the comments in a genuine and forthright manner. “I think he’s apologised and that apology came the next day and was very forth-

coming and genuine,� Mr Symonette said. “None of us are perfect. It shouldn’t be a reason why he should not be re-nominated.�

Furthermore, in the wake of Leonard Sands and Howard Johnson’s decisions to drop out of the race after being ratified by the party for Bain and Grants Town and South Beach respectively, Mr Symonette said the FNM should consider that Mr Lightbourn has proven capable of “staying SEE PAGE FIVE

BY KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net  WHILE confirming that he was approached by the Free National Movement over a possible candidacy in the 2017 general election, former Deputy Commissioner of Police Marvin Dames insisted yesterday that he is determined to avoid the antics of people who feel they have an “inalienable� right to political positions.

Mr Dames did not reveal

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POLICE last night issued bulletins for two men they believe can help with the investigation into the attempted murder of a police officer - but later announced that one of the men had been arrested.

Police are still on the search for 22-year-old Tahnarze Ferguson, also known as “Dirty� or “Nas,� who resides on Ross Corner, off East Street. Mr Ferguson is described as having a light brown com-

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the constituency he was being considered for, but it has been speculated that the FNM intends to ratify him for the Mount Moriah seat.

Party insiders yesterday told The Tribune that the former high ranking police officer would be a good pick for the party as the constituency is home to one of the capital’s most challenging crime hot spots for the police – Yellow Elder Gardens.

SEE PAGE FIVE

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plexion, is of medium build and is 5ft 8in to 5ft 10in tall.

The other man police wanted to speak with, Jorel Augustin, was arrested shortly after 9pm last night.

SEE PAGE SEVEN

PAGE 2, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

MAN KILLED AS BUS FALLS ON HIM AS HE CHANGES TYRE

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By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net

A 31-YEAR-OLD man is dead after he was crushed by a bus while changing a tyre on Baillou Hill Road South late Tuesday night.

The freak accident took place shortly after 10pm.

According to police reports, the victim was changing a tyre on a public service bus, when the tyre jack apparently malfunctioned

causing the bus to fall on top of him.

Residents assisted police in lifting the vehicle off the victim and paramedics attempted life saving measures. Unfortunately, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police have not identified the victim, but The Tribune understands he is Sean Saunders, a bus driver on the 16A route.

Investigations continue into the incident.

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JOHN Bostwick pictured at The People’s Movement town meeting on natural resources.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

Bostwick still plans for frontline politics role

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net FORMER Senator John Bostwick II said yesterday he is not done with frontline politics and nation building, contending that he and several other members of the recently formed Gatekeepers organisation are preparing to offer themselves in the upcoming general election.

In an interview with The Tribune to discuss a reported meeting between senior members of Mr Bostwick’s former party, the Free National Movement and other third party officials, the former Bain and Grants Town hopeful claimed several meetings have taken place between these groups in recent months. He said all involved are hoping “to craft the best strategy to rid the country of the PLP”.

On Tuesday, Democratic National Alliance Leader (DNA) Branville McCartney confirmed that opposition factions met last week to discuss how they can all work together to “get rid of” the Progressive Liberal Party.

Mr McCartney told The Tribune the meeting was organised by “private citizens” who believe that an alliance between the opposition parties would be best for the country.

Mr Bostwick, one of the figureheads of the Gatekeepers - The People’s Movement – said while he has met on separate occasions with the FNM, the DNA, United Democratic Party and several other fringe factions, he wasn’t present at the meeting referred to by Mr McCartney.

He said he met with senior brass of the DNA early last week for two to three hours in a “meeting of the minds.”

Mr Bostwick said at the end of that meeting, there were a number of agreements made between himself and DNA officials - agreements he said has come to fruition in the interim.

Asked if those agreements focused on an alliance between the DNA and the Gatekeepers movement, Mr Bostwick would only state that discussion had not ventured

in that direction.

“It was a meeting of the minds last week for myself, Bran (McCartney), Chris (Mortimer) and Andrew (Wilson). There wasn’t any talk of me joining the DNA or any coalition with some other group; it was all policy and discussions about nation building,” he said.

“This is the style of conversations that I have had with several other political organisations. You have to understand, all persons who have political ambition and national platforms are being courted by all political parties, that is the nature of the beast.

“Now while that is promising, that doesn’t guarantee a bid in the next general election. Everyone that joins a party doesn’t become a candidate.”

Mr Bostwick said his affinity and love for service hasn’t diminished in his time away from front-line politics.

“I do intend to offer myself in the upcoming general election. I am not certain of which constituency or which party I would offer myself for, but my affin-

ity and love for a couple of areas have not gone away.

There are communities that I want to see improve, areas I would do all in my power to see those people do better.”

“The southern Bahamas has become an important place to me. Also, I grew up in a part of Marathon that was Holy Cross and has become Sea Breeze; my navel string is buried there.

Then my family home is in St Anne’s. I’m attached to these communities,” he added.

At present, Gatekeepers officials have not classified their group as a political organisation.

However, fellow Gatekeeper, Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) President John Pinder has already announced that he plans to contest the Fox Hill constituency in 2017 general election.

Mr Bostwick ran on the FNM’s ticket in 2012 as the standard-bearer for Bain and Grants Town, but lost.

He was convicted of possession of ammunition last December and was later ordered to pay a $15,000 fine.

SEARCH FOR CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER WHO FELL INTO SEA

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE US Coast Guard is searching for an American woman who fell off a Carnival Ecstasy cruise ship in

waters near Freeport early Wednesday morning.

The US Coast Guard launched a search some 27 miles southwest of Freeport for missing passenger Rina Patel, 32, who was seen falling off the ship around

2.30am from the 11th deck.

According to reports, witnesses reported that the woman was wearing a white dress with pink flowers on it. Ms Patel is from Interlaken, New York. The cruise ship is based in Charleston,

South Carolina.

The search is being coordinated by the Coast Guard in Miami. A MH-65 Dolphin helicopter and an HC 144 Ocean Sentry, and Coast Guard Cutter Gannet were deployed.

INAGUA POLICE SEIZE MAN OVER DANGEROUS DRUGS FIND POLICE in Inagua took an man into custody after seizing a quantity of dangerous drugs on Monday.

According to reports

from police, around 5pm officers in Inagua were on routine patrol in the area of the government dock when they saw a suspicious looking Chevrolet with a

man inside.

The officers conducted a search of the vehicle and found two kilos of cocaine.

The man was taken into

custody and is expected to be formally charged in court in New Providence later this week.

CORRECTION - NAD AND CAR RENTAL LEASES IN A story (Rental cars hit at ‘too high’ fees, Tribune Business, September 1) it was reported that the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) was not prepared to meet the current rental car concessionaires at Lynden Pindling International Airport over proposed lease rate increases. NAD has asked us to make clear that the company was willing to meet and did, in fact, meet with the relevant concessionaires. NAD also

said that the vacant space at the car rental centre, which was reported to have been left because no one wanted it, has deliberately been left unfilled for five years in order to give the four existing companies time to settle in and grow their market share.

The company said it had received many expressions of interest in the unfilled place. NAD has also asked The Tribune to make clear that it was not contacted for comment prior to pub-

lication of the article and we are happy to oblige.

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THE TRIBUNE

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Bahamas Bar slams its doors shut on legal expert ON TUESDAY, The Tribune reported that the Bahamian law firm representing Sarkis Izmirlian, the developer of Baha Mar, had expressed frustration over the Bahamas Bar Association’s rejection of its application to bring in a foreign Queen’s Counsel to join their legal team.

It is true that their application was rejected. However, Tim Prudhoe, a British barrister, is not a Queen’s Counsel. Rather, he is a highly experienced financial litigator, whose practice focuses on offshore jurisdictions and their interaction with financial centres around the world. Mr Prudhoe, a highly respected lawyer in his speciality, represents companies and big net worth individuals based in the US and the Caribbean in all aspects of financial matters.

The Tribune reported that Bahamas Bar Association president Elsworth Johnson told Mr Ferron Bethell of Harry B Sands, Lobosky and Co that the Association had rejected his application for Mr Prudhoe to join his firm’s legal team lfor this particular case because it “was not in the interest of justice”.

In view of the suspicion — and yes, anger with anything to do with our government and the Export-Import Bank of China, and its side-kick CCA Bahamas — the first reaction was: “In the interest of justice for whom— Bahamians or Chinese?”

For once, we can confirm that it was not in the interest of either. It was rather in the interest of a closed-shop fraternity that fiercely guards its gates to keep out all interlopers. The first thing that excluded Mr Prudhoe was that he is not a QC. It is true that we have many outstanding senior lawyers here, but it is a young Bar without the depth of experience required to cover the type of international disputes that could come our way. Our senior lawyers frequently consult with their counterparts abroad, especially in dealing with conflict of laws in international jurisdictions. So when it comes to knowledge, no country can close its doors to the outside world, unless, of course, it so caters to its inferiority complexes - or is it false pride? — that it will forever remain in the world’s backwater.

Also a litigant has the right to the best legal representation available, and if The Bahamas cannot provide it, then for the period required, he should be allowed to bring in an expert from outside to assist in his case.

According to the Bahamas’ Legal Profession Act, Chpt 64 Counsel and attorneys, s. 11 it says: “Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Act, the Bar Council, upon being satisfied that the interests of justice so require, may determine that any person qualified in accordance with the First Schedule shall be specially admitted to practice for the purpose of conducting particular proceedings specified…”

Apparently, Mr Johnson is not “satisfied that the interests of justice” requires the presence of this expert. We are pleased that Mr Bethell has demanded an explanation. It is not as if the request is for Mr Prudhoe to be a permanent member of the Bahamas Bar. It’s a temporary measure for the duration of a special case. Surely other members of the Bar are not going to catch leprosy by his presence. However, they might acquire extra knowledge, which would do them some good in the future.

Earlier this year, the Financial Services Group, a committee of the Bar Association, wrote to the Council, suggesting that a survey be conducted of all members to discover their views on whether the sec-

tor should be opened to “free movement” of specialist lawyers.

“Financial services has long been the second pillar of the Bahamian economy and has provided many opportunities for Bahamian attorneys. However, we have been criticised for the dearth of attorneys who currently practice in the area,” the survey document added. This particular case apparently needs a financial expert, who should not be denied.

There are members of the Bar who have said that the “inability of foreign, specialist financial services attorneys to practice in this nation is costing the Bahamas business, as the legal profession lacks the base of expertise and necessary contacts to attract it.”

We agree. This country cannot continue to cripple itself because it refuses to open its mind and doors to the world of knowledge. It would also be the best antidote to encourage those content in their own mediocrity to wake up and move forward.

We shall watch this case with a great deal of interest.

How to make a corrupt state noble?

This would be quite a feat! There is an interesting back-and-forth debate currently moving on our e-mail between intellectual friends who are concerned about the future of this precious country should the Christie government continue for another five years.

Taking a quote from a 9th century ecumenical patriarch — St Photius I of Constantinople– “Worthy is the prince it is said, who takes a small state and makes it big” –they have added “I, on the other hand, say that worthy is the prince who takes a corrupt state and makes it noble and distinguished”.

With an election only eight months away, the FNM in seemingly hopeless disarray with fringe groups trying to decide which way to jump and what to join, this small group among themselves are trying to find a worthy prince to take this corrupt state and make it “noble and whole again.”

“If PGC (Perry Christie) represents charisma, this has not served us well,” wrote one.

“Unfortunately, it seems charisma and political rallies - aka big Junkanoo beer parties - have more traction in our culture than values, vision, and national goals with long term benefits.

We need a quantum shift in terms of expectations. It all comes back to the issue of Education, and education and education.

“We need a better educated public to foster a better economic, social, political and ecological environment.”

To which another replies: “I agree the answer is education, but I also agree that we need a saviour now.”

A candidate, who has outlined a plan of what he would do if he were prime minister, has been suggested, but sidelined because it is claimed he lacks “the charisma that Bahamians expect from leaders”.

Maybe our readers would like to join the discussion with suggestions on how, or where, to find such a worthy prince?

And it doesn’t have to be any of the present contenders, but any outstanding person in this community who, in your opinion, would have the integrity and ability to take this corrupt state and make it noble and distinguished.

If you are interested, please send your letters to letters@tribunemedia.net.

Calling Mt Moriah EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE proliferation of derelict vehicles, garbage, run down buildings and unkept streets through the inner city is disgusting and downright demoralising.

Your children seeing, living in and passing by these disgusting sights cannot contribute to their self esteem being high.

I am forced to believe that this practice must be planned to kill the spirits of the people over the hill so that they can feel depend-

ent on their MP. We may not know, but these vexing scenarios could be why the attitude and behaviour of our youth are so destructive.

On another note but related, Millennium Gardens residence are proud people. All of us are thriving and hardworking people.

So why has a shack, on the back of the subdivision opposite the Drag Racing Track, been allowed to not only be here, but allowed to expand?

I call in the Member of

Parliament for Mt. Moriah Arnold Forbes to FIX IT. We should not be happy with the beginning of this shanty town, right in our backyard.

These concerns would never be allowed on the Eastern Road, Cable Beach, Westridge, Port New Providence, Old Fort Bay, Paradise Island or Lyford Cay. IVOINE W. INGRAHAM, JP Nassau, September 2, 2016.

PM gets last chance EDITOR, The Tribune.

IF I might use this medium to invite Bro’ Obie Ferguson to take a fully paid (by me) City & Country Tour of New Providence with one of our struggling Tour Companies, he would see first-hand that threats, such as he is making, are no more than a biblical “sounding Brass or clanging cymbal”. Such threats would have a little more weight, in a buoyant economy, which is not to be found anywhere in the Bahamas today, except the web shops. The PLP government has beat you to the punch, ma bey! The country is already “SHUT DOWN”! Yes, Sandals is “SHUT DOWN”, more than likely through labour union stupidity. Baha Mar is “SHUT DOWN”, mainly through government stupidity and meddling in the private sector. I guess the next big target for you would be Atlantis, as they are only struggling with reduced occupancy and falling room rates. So you could “SHUT THAT DOWN” and

agents and brokers who sit, day in and day out, hoping for the phone to ring, or an e-mail to come letters@tribunemedia.net through. Yes, the PLP put those poor folks out government has already of work for a while too. “SHUT DOWN” this Next, the Tour could take once thriving business too. you to the head offices of And don’t forget our manuall of the Mortgage Lend- facturing businesses, also ing institutions, which pe- “SHUT DOWN” through riodically publish a “short government stupidity and book” of distressed prop- carelessness. The Albury erties for sale. Distressed, family’s Champion brand because the homeowner is tomato products, and the now unemployed, or severe- Sawyer’s Bahamian Agrily underemployed, because cultural canned products. the overall economy has Both “SHUT DOWN” “SHUT DOWN” . After because of government that, a drive through down- stupidity and inaction. town might be in order, to Yes, Bro’ Ferguson, you see first-hand, all of the for- gotta get up real early in mer Bay Street businesses, the morning to beat the at “SHUTTING that have long been “SHUT PLP DOWN”. Including those DOWN” anything. And of your close friends on the what they’re talking about south side of Bay Street, doing now, to appease you between Parliament and and your unions, has very Charlotte Streets. Don’t for- likely caused a lot of peoget to go east of East Street ple already to think about DOWN” and see how many of these “SHUTTING former thriving businesses before they are put in jail are also “SHUT DOWN” . just for going bankrupt.

Just for fun, maybe the G RAINE Tour could take you to BRUCE some of the Real Estate Nassau, offices, to speak with the September 7, 2016.

LETTERS

Baha Mar deal EDITOR, The Tribune ONE can’t help but speculate as to what really “the deal” is between Christie and the Chinese. Let’s examine it from the Chinese perspective. They would have been fully aware of a number of facts.

1) They were negotiating with a weak leader. I would say it is safe to say this present PLP government is the most unpopular to date and Christie the weakest of our three PMs. They would have been critically aware of the imminent election and the PLP’s desperate need for “any” good news in a sea of negativity which engulfs the PLP. 2) They know they are negotiating with a corrupt and buyable govt. The PLP have always been seduced by people with real power and money. That fact goes back to the Norman’s Cay/ Pindling and Carlos Lehder era of rampant corruption/ drug running and the ‘Nation for Sale’ scenario.

If anyone has ever seen the video of the PLP MPs

with Nygard in Lyford Cay just after the last election they were fawning all over their benefactor.

So the Chinese knew they were holding all the aces; they have the money and the power to complete Baha Mar. They went into the negotiation with Christie and clearly had the upper hand.

Christie also is no Hubert Ingraham; anyone who has had dealings with Ingraham can testify he is a tough, but fair man to negotiate with, Christie the exact opposite.

Whatever the deal is Christie has kept it very much to himself. I suspect history will prove it will be a lousy deal for the Bahamas and its people. It’s certainly a lousy deal for Mr Izmirlian, who had the PLP on one side and the Chinese on the other. Talk about being between a rock and a hard place. Izmirlian was doomed from day one.

Beware of who you get into bed with I suppose.

What concessions have the Chinese eked out? I bet it will cost real money and real losses in revenue taxes,

write offs and the likes for the Bahamas Treasury.

I bet we will have a lot of Chinese with residency/citizenship of The Bahamas in short order. I bet there will be 4,000 plus Chinese back working at Baha Mar with a few token Bahamians to assist. This when we have record unemployment and the dearth of construction here in the Bahamas. I wonder how a Bahamian mason or carpenter will feel when he can’t find a job.

Go look at 4,000 Chinese doing work they are perfectly capable of doing as well if not better than the Chinese! That itself is a disgrace but complacency is an unfortunate national characteristic.

Let’s see what if any details are divulged, but I feel the only winners will be 10,000 miles away in Beijing and having a good laugh at the cretins in the Bahamas who sold out their birthright so cheaply.

THE REALIST Nassau, September 5, 2016.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 5

Symonette no longer on FNM finance committee

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette yesterday confirmed that he was no longer a part of the Free National Movement’s Finance Committee, which spearheads efforts to secure the necessary funding for the opposition party to pull off a successful election

campaign.

He had been on the committee for the last 40 years.

Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, Mr Symonette seemed indifferent that he no longer sat on the committee and explained that the decision of who should serve on it was the choice of FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

“The leader is in the process of forming a new com-

mittee,” he said. “He has the unfettered ability to make his decision to determine the people he wants to be on the committee.”

This revelation follows a report published in The Tribune last month that key members of the committee, according to sources, indicated that they were no longer willing to assist the party with fundraising.

It was perceived to be a

power play and insiders insisted that it came because some committee members remained dissatisfied with Dr Minnis’ leadership.

“They told Dr Minnis before the convention to step down because to them he doesn’t have the wherewithal,” one FNM insider said last month. “They also said if you come out the convention as the leader we will not support you. So it was

no surprise that there are those of them who said they did not want to carry on.”

However, when he was asked at the time about these reports, Mr Symonette denied that the party’s Finance Committee resigned at their luncheon meeting.

Although he said this was not true, Mr Symonette did suggest that as some members had been on the com-

mittee for so many years, they should give Dr Minnis a chance to select his own committee.

This comes amid reports that the FNM is struggling financially as many of its donors have made a decision not to donate funds.

Insiders have raised concerns that if the party cannot gain sound financial footing, it will lose the 2017 general election.

LIGHTBOURN ‘SHOULD NOT BE RULED OUT FOR COMMENTS’ from page one

the course” and would also have the financial means to wage a campaign and remain an MP. Mr Lightbourn admitted yesterday that he has heard “rumours” that he may not be re-nominated by the Free National Movement to run in the 2012 general election, but told The Tribune he hopes those in and outside of the party will see him as a valuable representative.

He spoke after The Tribune reported earlier this week that some executives in the FNM are considering denying Mr Lightbourn a re-nomination due to the fall out from his comments at the FNM’s convention in July.

Mr Lightbourn said he has heard from sources in the party that some are seeking to have him replaced, but he can’t tell how legitimate the reports are.

“I’ve heard rumours just like you,” he told The Tribune yesterday.

Mr Lightbourn was widely criticised after he said that The Bahamas should consider adopting a practice of sterilising unwed mothers after the birth of their second child.

In July, Mr Lightbourn said it is necessary “for us as a nation to consider adopting the lead of several countries in the world, which results in an unwed mother having her tubes tied after having more than two children which would in the end

RICHARD LIGHTBOURN, MP for Montagu, whose comments about tying the tubes of unwed mothers saw the FNM issue a statement distancing themselves from his comments.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff result in fewer children offend people but sought to alists to Dr Minnis, weary speak to the need for effec- of him because of his past being born.” actions.

He added: “The state tive parenting.

In the past, Mr Light“They could run with any should not have the burden of paying for the upbringing bourn has also been a stri- excuse they want (to oust dent critic of FNM Leader me),” he said. “I don’t know of children.”

While the party dis- Dr Hubert Minnis and what’s happening. But I tanced itself from the re- was a part of the “gang of know there’s a process the marks, leading women six” parliamentarians who party has to go through and members of Parliament signed a scathing letter I have submitted my applifrom the PLP later called detailing Dr Minnis’ sup- cation.” for his resignation over posed failures as leader.

Yesterday, Mr Lightthe comments.

He later apologised for bourn did not dismiss the his statements, however, possibility that those seeksaying he never intended to ing his ouster could be loy-

DAMES CONFIRMS APPROACH

BY FNM FOR ELECTION RACE from page one

However, Mr Dames said while the FNM’s interest in him has stirred much debate, he has yet to accept any position and the party hasn’t made him any assurances.

A possible run by the former police officer has been speculated for weeks, but was the subject of discussion on Tuesday after Mount Moriah Constituency Association executive Collin Ingraham expressed anger over an apparent snub concerning his candidacy for the constituency.

It came to light in a message sent by messenger service WhatsApp in which Mr Ingraham expressed displeasure over reports that despite promises he was slated to be the party’s pick in the next election, Mr Dames had been chosen.

“I have not committed to anything nor has anyone told me that I have been nominated for any position,” Mr Dames said when he was contacted by The Tribune.

He added: “In an answer to your question, yes I have been approached by the FNM and I have been approached by people in other parties as well.

“You know people are driven to politics for any number of reasons (including) their own selfish gain, the power (and) the prestige of it. But I would say this, if or whenever that day comes and I decide to run in front line politics it’s going to be for all the right

reasons. Principle among those reasons would be to give all that I can give to ensure that this country gets on the right track and that’s all I have to say.

“It’s about making the Bahamas a nation for all Bahamians. It’s not about PLPs or FNMs. It’s all about what you bring to the table. Not what colour you wear or who you are associated with. Too often you hear people say ‘the PLP is in power so I am not going to get a job’ (or) ‘the FNM is in power so I am not going to get a job.’ This whole business of jobs being seasonal based on one’s political leanings, it has to be a thing of the past. It’s archaic (and) we have too many people out there suffering. (There are) too many young people out there that can’t find jobs simply because we are not growing the economy enough or the person’s family is an FNM or PLP. “So we need people in the front lines who are fed up, determined and encouraged to change the tide in this country. So I cannot get caught up in the side antics of it and those who feel they have an inalienable right to a position. I can’t get caught up in that and I won’t.”

Mr Ingraham’s message, obtained by The Tribune, said the Mount Moriah Association was prepared to “go to bat to fight” party leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

“He has determined along with his advisors to not ratify me at the behest of the very people I helped him defeat,” the message

read. “When he was at his lowest and no one wanted to touch him, it was (former FNM Chairman Michael) Pintard and I along with a few other soldiers who started this movement. We shielded him and developed a winning campaign.

“Today I have the strongest support of any ratified or nominated candidate on the island of New Providence. I have the support of 90 per cent of the executives and all but four persons in the constituency association.”

He continued: “Yet today they will seek to say that I am not worthy and will seek to push a different candidate on Mount Moriah. I hold no personal issue with him.”

Mr Ingraham sent another message Tuesday evening, this time to clarify his earlier remarks, saying despite reportedly being passed over for the seat, he would continue to support the party and plans to vote FNM in the next election.

Mr Ingraham vied to be the FNM’s standard-bearer in North Eleuthera ahead of the 2012 general election; however he did not receive the nomination.

This comes amid news this week that a faction in Long Island drafted a petition to oust that constituency’s MP Loretta Butler-Turner, reported uncertainty over Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn’s future with the party, and confirmation from FNM member Howard Johnson that he was dropping out of the race for the South Beach constituency.

PAGE 6, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

No end in sight for power cuts from page one That is what has been happening for the past week but we are working on the problem.”

Mrs Ingraham said one major 25 megawatt generator should be back up today, hopefully putting an end, even if just temporarily, to the generation shortage.

She also said the plant for the rental generators is in the process of being built.

“Even though they are rental generators you don’t just get them and plug it in,” she explained. “The infrastructure has to be in place and someone dropped the ball and it started later than we would have like, but we are building the plant for the rentals.

“We are very optimistic that by the end of next week we will be using those rental units. We realise the urgency and we are working around the clock because we

realise the inconvenience.”

BPL also released a statement yesterday afternoon, saying it did not anticipate power outages Wednesday night. In spite of BPL’s assurances, there were reports of intermittent power cuts in New Providence last night.

“Our teams have been able to complete repairs on two units that were out of service,” BPL’s statement said. “As a result, we do not anticipate having any

outage rotations in New Providence this evening (Wednesday). Additionally, BPL plans to complete major repairs on a third unit before next week.

“BPL sincerely apologises for the outages you have experienced and assures each of you that our efforts are concentrated on bringing short and long term reliability solutions in New Providence and Family Islands. Atop our list are plans to have the additional

40 megawatts of rental generation available within a few days.”

On Monday, nearly one month after the first set of rental generators secured for BPL arrived in the country, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard told The Tribune that the site for the engines has not been prepared.

In July, BPL CEO Pamela Hill acknowledged that power cuts this year have

been more frequent than last year, but said BPL should have had the rental generators by the end of the summer to help with reliability.

For the past seven days customers across New Providence have experienced three to four hour power cuts in some instances as BPL continues to struggle with generation issues.

BPL has been updating customers about the power cuts on its Facebook page.

FNM DEPUTY CONCERN AT CCA ROLE ON CLAIMS from page one

In a notice published in the newspapers Tuesday, the Claims Committee, which is headed by former State Minister for Finance James Smith, said calls for Baha Mar creditors to come forward with their claims do not extend to creditors of CCA. Mr Smith told The Tribune on Tuesday that CCA’s creditors will be dealt with by the company under a separate scheme.

Nonetheless, a senior representative of CCA, Tiger Wu, is among the five people who have been appointed to the Claims Committee.

Mr Turnquest said: “If the only people being paid by the Claims Committee are those with contracts with Baha Mar, why is CCA involved in this committee?

Why are they there and adjudicating claims? If creditors were making claims on them I could see them being involved to verify the claims but if the claims process doesn’t involve them then I don’t see why they would be there. More and more this whole thing looks like an irregular, ad-hoc, side arrangement between the government and the bank.”

Mr Turnquest previously said Mr Wu’s inclusion on the committee was “very unfair” to Bahamian creditors, especially the local contractors who were hired as sub-contractors by CCA given that he felt that CCA could use its position on the committee to “beat down” the value of their claims.

Mr Turnquest also questioned the lack of representation of someone from the provisional liquidation and receivership teams on

FNM Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest said he is concerned that CCA has a position on the claims committee over Baha Mar. the committee following Mr Turnquest said this al- be paid. I don’t know how them and they are voluntarTuesday’s confirmation that lows the Claims Commit- you get away with discrimi- ily contributing additional the claims process is tak- tee to discriminate against nating against foreign con- monies. CEXIM could have said ‘I will proceed to finish ing place on an “ex-gratia foreigners when handling tractors.”

Nonetheless, Chamber the project and pick and basis” without the involve- claims.

“When you look at who of Commerce Chairman choose who I work with.’ ment of any of the courtis going to get paid it seems Gowon Bowe said yester- But they’ve taken the route appointed parties.

The lack of involvement discrimination is involved day that as the party provid- that says they will look at of such people is because as it clearly says only Baha- ing funds it wasn’t obligated existing creditors who can the money provided by the mian employees and con- to provide, CEXIM has the complete the work.”

Mr Bowe added that Export Import Bank of tractors who have a direct right to determine how it China (CEXIM) does not relationship with Baha Mar wishes to proceed with the there must be a “settling of voices” over the Baha Mar come from the sale of any of are eligible to be paid,” he payouts.

“CEXIM could have deal and politicians should Baha Mar’s assets, but is in- added. “I don’t know how you do that legally. If I decided to sell the assets respect the fact that the stead a gift from the bank.

Echoing the view of oth- am in a class of creditors, to recover funds,” he said. matter is before the courts.

“This is still a private er stakeholders who have whether foreign or domes- “But now they have a busispoken to The Tribune, tic, I have an equal right to ness proposition in front of venture going through a

troubled time,” he said.

“There has to be a balancing of expectations of what you would like to see if this was a public hearing versus what is done in private transactions when something is before the courts.

“I hear the rhetoric coming from the politicians. But if we look at it as a business transaction, money is being provided by a source that didn’t have to give it and that source will want to have a say in how that money is issued out.”

DNA: LABOUR LAWS MOVE IS A SHOW FOR NATION’S WORKERS from page one

Last week, The Tribune obtained a document written by the Department of

Labour outlining how the government wants to bring “emergency legislation” to Parliament that would make it a criminal offence for employers to fail to

consult or notify the relevant minister or bargaining agent about their intention to make ten or more workers redundant.

The government has also

recommended that employers consult the minister and bargaining agent at least 60 days prior to the redundancy exercise whenever an employer is proposing to

make ten or more employees redundant.

According to the document, the government plans not only to force employers to give it and unions substantial notification of redundancy plans and to consult them, but to also remove the cap in the Employment Act which ensures that there is a 12-year limit on the redundancy pay an employee is entitled to under the law.

It came in the wake of Sandals making over 600 employees at the Cable Beach resort redundant so it could conduct renovations. The government has claimed it was given very little notice of the resort’s plans to make the workers redundant.

In its document, the government’s proposal referred the move by Sandals.

“It’s politics for this government again, for the PLP,” Mr McCartney said.

“Labourers have been crying out for change, they’ve been crying out for the government to look at the Employment Act for years and nothing has happened. We are now just hearing about these proposed amendments in light of the Sandals redundancies.

“The government is really almost trying to make up and to try and show the country that what they’re doing is something for the benefit of labourers. But again it’s not a genuine attempt on behalf of this government. Labour laws ought to have been looked at years ago to ensure fair labour laws, but at the same time balancing the (business) aspect of it.”

Mr McCartney submitted

that the government had to have known of the layoffs beforehand, either because Sandals would have had to get the necessary permission to renovate from the Ministry of Works, or the ministry being the one to say whether or not employees could be on site for the renovations.

He believes the government has been dishonest about what it knew about the planned redundancies.

Still, Mr McCartney said notwithstanding the government’s rationale behind calls for the “emergency legislation” to deal with the matter, the government needs to strike a “balancing act” between enforcing fair labour laws and respecting the autonomy of the business community. “…People would be reluctant - if the government does not find a balance between the two - to go in business initially which will help employment, or if you are in business to remain in business because of the possibility of legislation that is detrimental to your business, or indeed not expand your business.

“But not only local businesses, you know; foreign investors. When foreign investors come over they have to comply with our laws, and they look at that as well. So it could also be a detriment to – if the government doesn’t get it right – foreign investors who are looking at investing in the country.

“And it could certainly be a deterrent to foreign investors if the legislation does not strike a balance between the labour force and the business community.”

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 7

POLICE ISSUE WANTED NOTICE FOR MAN AS PART OF OFFICER SHOOTING PROBE

NAD AWARDS TECHNICIANS THE Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) recently promoted and awarded certificates to nine technicians.

The technicians took part in the company’s maintenance promotion assessment programme - which assesses the skill of the team and provides training.

“Our goal in this initiative, which includes annual, voluntary classroom and field exams, was to develop a progressive process that allows employees to be in command of their careers,” said Kevin McDonald, vice -president, maintenance and engineering at NAD.

from page one

PICTURED sitting are successful participants of the Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd. Maintenance Promotion Assessment Programme who were recently promoted. From left, Harry Gelin; Bradley Johnson; Antoine Brown-McKenzie; Ramon Rolle; Roberto Graham; Jeno Stuart; and Kendrick King. Not pictured are: Shawn Miller and Rashad Strachan.

Standing, NAD’s Maintenance and Engineering management team that created the metrics for evaluation and invested the time to train and assess the successful candidates along with Gary Scavella, director, maintenance and engineering (4th from left); Vernice Walkine, president and CEO (5th from left); Sian Bevans, director, human resources and Kevin McDonald, vice-president, maintenance and engineering (6th from left).

HUMAN TRAFFICKING TRIAL ADJOURNED

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

THE trial of a man and woman facing human trafficking charges has been adjourned to October 31 due to the unavailability of the complainant in the matter.

Clayton Phillips, 40, and Lekiesha Dean-Foulkes, 38, appeared before Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes for the expected start of their trial concerning allegations of trafficking in persons and conspiracy to engage in trafficking in persons.

It is alleged that between a date

unknown and April 27, the accused pair, being concerned with others, conspired to engage in trafficking in persons.

It is then alleged that they, while “concerned with others,” engaged in the trafficking of a 26-year-old woman “for the purpose of exploitation.”

Both have denied the charges and are represented by Krysta Mason-Smith.

When the matter was called, Crown prosecutors Eucal Bonaby and Alicia Delancy alerted the chief magistrate that the complainant was not in the country and they were continuing their ef-

forts to make contact.

The matter was adjourned to the end of next month when the prosecution may proceed with other witnesses in the matter.

Chief Magistrate Forbes said he will ensure that a stenographer is available to record the proceedings given the nature of the case.

In a separate matter before the chief magistrate, 31-year-old Xavient Taylor is also set to return to Magistrate’s Court on October 31 for the start of his trial concerning a viral video where a man is seen brandishing a firearm and making indirect death threats.

His attorney Ms Mason-Smith

and Crown prosecutor Ambrose Armbrister agreed with the chief magistrate that this was also a case that required the presence of a stenographer.

Taylor, of Key West Street, faces a charge of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to put others in danger of his actions in the near two-minute long video.

The video showed a man brandishing what appeared to be a fully loaded gun with an extended magazine and making unspecified death threats, while also boasting of his shooting prowess.

GUN SMUGGLING TRIAL DELAYED TO NOVEMBER

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

THE trial into an alleged gun smuggling operation that was uncovered at Arawak Cay last summer has been further adjourned to November of this year.

Kenyon Reheed Symonette, Philip Farquharson, Terell Cox, Paul Clare and Laris Thompson appeared in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for their case concern-

ing a major weapons seizure on June 16, 2015.

They face 10 counts of importation of a firearm into the country, 10 counts of possession of a firearm and conspiracy to import firearms. They have denied the allegations.

The trial, which was continuously delayed due to non-appearance of witnesses, was to be heard before Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after receiving the matter from his predecessor Joyann

Ferguson-Pratt.

However, the case was transferred yesterday to another court presided over by Magistrate Constance Delancy.

The accused are now scheduled to return to Magistrate’s Court on November 9 for trial.

According to police reports, on Tuesday, June 16, Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) officers conducted a major operation, which resulted in the arrest of two persons and the recovery of eight il-

legal weapons.

Shortly after 5pm on the day in question, DEU officers followed two men from the Arawak Cay Port and made an interdiction a short time later.

During a search of a vehicle, officers discovered two packages consisting of eight illegal weapons. Murrio Ducille, Tecoyo Bridgewater, Larisha Thompson, Kenyon Symonette and Halson Moultrie have been retained to represent them.

Police have advised members of the public not to approach Mr Ferguson if seen, but to instead contact authorities with any relevant information.

On Monday night, a bodyguard attached to Prime Minister Perry Christie was shot several times during what police said was an armed robbery off East Street.

According to police, the bodyguard, who is a sergeant on the Royal Bahamas Police Force, had just pulled into the driveway of a home on Olde Corner when two men with handguns approached and demanded cash.

A struggle followed and the officer, Sgt Brent Dixon, was shot three times - twice in the back and once in the hip.

The officer returned fire and shot one of the suspects, police said.

However, the other suspect fled the area on foot.

The officer and suspect were taken to hospital by ambulance.

Sources said the officer underwent emergency surgery on Tuesday and was listed in serious, but stable condition.

The suspect, who was shot in the leg, is in stable condition and under heavy police guard.

Yesterday, Mr Christie spoke to reporters about Sgt Dixon and said he hopes he has a speedy recovery.

“When I met him, he was able to speak to me about the incident,” Mr Christie told reporters. “He looked good, obviously the first two days or so when you have a traumatic impact on your body it becomes a very important process. So clearly we’re waiting for time to demonstrate that what we see is what is actually happening with him, all positive. “ . . .We are very thankful that by the grace of God he is alive and we hope that (he) really is improving rapidly and that he will have a speedy recovery.”

Anyone with relevant information is asked to call police at 919 or Crime Stoppers at 328-TIPS (8477) in New Providence, or 1-242-300-8476 in the Family Islands.

PAGE 8, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Our freedom of speech is being challenged A Young Man’s View

By ADRIAN GIBSON

O

F LATE, the in Magistrate’s Court. troubling trend As a result of this, she of arresting spent the night at the Baand charging or hamas Department of Corthreatening to charge peo- rections. The following ple for criminal libel has morning, Justice Bernard been an ongoing exercise Turner granted Daxon bail on the part of the Royal Ba- in the sum of $100 and she hamas Police Force and has has been released from Fox set tongues wagging, with Hill. many Bahamians expressIndeed, there are many ing dismay and disdain at who wonder if the amount what appears to be a steady of the bail is somewhat regression towards becom- of reproof of those who ing a totalitarian, fascist, brought the charges and, police state. for that matter, highlights Last week, Maria Daxon the banality of the charges.

- a former police constable, Whilst the matter is now attorney and vocal defender sub judice, given our defor the rights of police of- mocracy and fundamental ficers - stood before Chief freedoms, there is so much Magistrate Andrew Forbes about this that does not sit facing two counts of inten- well with me. tional libel concerning alWhy are Bahamians sudleged statements written denly being arrested for about Commissioner of Po- songs and commentary on lice Ellison Greenslade and talk shows and Facebook?

Assistant Commissioner of If anyone is defamed, are Police Leon Bethell. there not civil remedies for It was alleged libel and slanthat she, be- ‘Why are der? tween August Bahamians What’s more, 26 and August I’ve taken a 30, wrote de- suddenly being look at Ms. famatory state- arrested for songs Daxon’s charge ments about and commentary sheet. Notably, Commissioner although he is on Facebook?’

Greenslade a complainant and ACP in his personal Bethell, which were likely and professional capac“to injure and expose” the ity, Commissioner of Police officers to “general hatred, Ellison Greenslade is not contempt or ridicule.” listed among the witnesses Interestingly, Ms Daxon who will testify at the trial. was unable to obtain bail Surely, Daxon’s attorneys given that recent amend- must summon him to the ments to the Bail Act made stand. the charge of intentional liThe irony in the Daxon bel a non-bailable offence matter is that Commis-

THE CHARGE sheet showing the offences with which Maria Daxon has been charged. sioner Greenslade is playing multiple roles. On one hand, he is the complainant by virtue of his professional capacity as the Commissioner of Police. On another hand, he is the complainant in his personal capacity.

On yet another hand, Commissioner Greenslade is the prosecutor because - at the hearing - a police prosecutor had charge of the matter and, as Greenslade is the head of the police force, he is the prosecutor by virtue of him having delegated his authority to that prosecutor.

Moreover, Mr Greenslade is also an officer of the Court by virtue of his standing as the Provost Marshall.

And so, what a quandary!

Where is the Office of the Attorney General? What about justice, true justice?

In The Bahamas, if a person is convicted of intentional libel they would be

liable to imprisonment for two years. Surely, this law is a legal relic that infringes upon our democratic principles and is subject to abuse.

Intentional libel (also known as criminal libel) is a colonial handout used to silence poor slaves in a bygone era and subsequently used by our colonial masters to suppress dissent.

T

he fact that such laws remain on our books and are now being readily used by the police, and cited by politicians such as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell, are indicative of our slide to becoming a democratic dictatorship.

The police force is supposed to protect all citizens and, unlike what many Bahamians have concluded of late, ought not be at the behest of the political direc-

torate.

We are now seeing Duvalier-era behaviour; we are seeing a local resurgence of the Tonton Macoutes of Haiti and the Mongoose Gang of Grenada.

Is there an attempt afoot to also intimidate attorneys? What about the rule of law? Are artists and rappers and cartoonists and satirists not about to express their views freely?

Even if one wishes to censure on a moral ground, one should use the criminal law to censure people in such a way when the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression/speech.

Of course, our freedom of speech does not mean that one can freely damage or destroy reputations.

Indeed, like all freedoms, free speech must be exercised responsibly.

Like justice, the political directorate - to use the words

of Lord Atkin in Ambard v Attorney-General for Trinidad and Tobago [1936] AC 322 at 335 - “is not a cloistered virtue: she must be allowed to suffer the scrutiny and respectful… comments of ordinary men”.

Politicians and other public officials - like the Commissioner of Police - are not free from criticism, they too can be chastised. Yes, one can vent their moral objection about the criticism or initiate a civil suit if defamed, but one cannot give the law loose interpretations so that they can vent a personal or moral or political issue.

The police have yet to explain why they arrested the suspected rappers? I am advised that no formal complaint was lodged by any of the persons to whom it is alleged that the lyrics in the songs referred.

So, did the police act on

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THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 9

MARIA Daxon with her legal representatives Wilver Deleveaux and Glendon Rolle outside the Central Police Station on Friday and, below, during her first appearance at court. their own accord? Is the criminal law being used to deal with moral outrage?

Years ago, the brother of current National Security Minister Bernard Nottage was charged with criminal libel. The late Glenroy Nottage was charged with having libelled then Inspector

Kendal Lightbourne in Freeport, Grand Bahama. The matter was tried in the Supreme Court. Mr Nottage was exonerated.

This is a Pandora’s Box that’s being opened. I am afraid that our democracy may be at stake. What the recent arrests mean

is that if any politician or high-ranking public official feel that their moral turpitude has been troubled, they can bring the power of the state to bear on everyday citizens. That cannot be!

As citizens, we must not silently settle for that.

‘Of course our freedom of speech does not mean that one can freely damage or destroy reputations.

Like all freedoms, free speech must be exercised responsibly.’

The conflict of police prosecutors in the magistrate court I HAVE a serious problem with the chumminess between police prosecutors and Magistrates.

I’m doubtful that one can be a minister of justice/prosecutor and a police officer, charged with investigating crimes at the same time.

There arises a genuine conflict between these roles. Surely, the conflict is glaring when issues of disclosure arise. This creates a grossly abnormal law-and-order situation.

What’s more, having practised at the Magistrate’s Court, I am not confident that police prosecutors and Magistrates - having been together for so long maintain the so-called “arms-length” relationship. One can easily question the fairness of trials before Magistrates with in-house police prosecutors.

I am surprised that many other attorneys haven’t yet filed suits using the apparent unfairness as a ground for appeal.

I have personally witnessed prosecutors in and out of a Magistrate’s office. I have heard stories of them driving together and staying at the same hotels during Family Island trips, in rooms that are next door to the other.

That’s unacceptable!

Frankly, it appears that police prosecutors have a disproportionate influence on the court.

Surely, there are enough police officers who are trained attorneys who can form an arm of the AttorneyGeneral’s Office, tasked with attending to various matters at the Magistrate Court without being assigned to

one particular Magistrate. We need to move away from police officers - who are not trained attorneys - prosecuting cases.

Furthermore, the AG’s prosecutors should more readily assist police officers in the laying of charges, given that there have been matters where the wrong charge has been laid or where defendants have simply been maliciously “over charged”! In such instances, we see gross miscarriages of justice.

As an attorney, I need to see a greater sense of impartiality and fairness in our Magistrate’s Courts. Justice must not only be done, but it must also be seen to be done.

Comments to ajbahama@hotmail.com

PAGE 10, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

THE CEMETERY at Pinder’s Point before the clean-up.

Businessmen help to clean up cemetery

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Pinder’s Point Public Cemetery was given a much-needed clean up thanks to the financial contributions of two Grand Bahama businessmen with close ties to the community.

The graveyard, which falls under the purview of local government, was inundated with overgrown trees and bushes covering

the graves.

Shuffel Hepburn, of Subway Restaurant, and Berthram Pinder, of Russell’s and Pinder’s Funeral Home, came together and decided to fund the clean up and beautification of the cemetery.

Ann Russell, chairman of the Pinder’s Point Township, explained that lack of local government funding prevents them from cleaning and maintaining the cemetery on a monthly ba-

sis as they would like.

“We are responsible for the upkeep of cemeteries, but due to lack of funding we have to do it every other month. And when it rains, the trees and grass grow fast and overtake the grounds,” she said.

She thanked Mr Pinder and Mr Hepburn for their assistance.

“We are very grateful to them for what they have done and my goal is to work together to keep the cem-

eteries in good condition,” she said.

Mr Hepburn said he decided to do something after going to the cemetery to visit his mother’s grave.

“I would come and visit my mother’s grave and you had to wade through grass and bush, and one day I decided I would approach Mr Pinder and see how we could assist,” he said.

“I got a lot of family buried here; my brother, grandfather, and also my first

cousin. When you come to see your loved ones you want to have a better experience and so now it is a little bit better, but still not where we would like to be with it.”

Mr Pinder, who is a native of Pinder’s Point, said the cemetery has been in the community since its existence. He said the management of Russell’s and Pinder’s Funeral Home was pleased to assist financially with the cleanup and beau-

tification.

He commended Mr Hepburn for pledging his commitment to the continued maintenance of the graveyard.

“The cemetery was in really bad shape, and there is still more work that needs to be done. The residents are very grateful to Mr Hepburn and Subway International for their financial contribution for the beautification of the cemetery,” he said.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 11

MINISTER: TALKS ARE UNDER WAY TO TRAIN MORE NURSES

| “Leader in Personal Banking Services”

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER Commonwealth Bank is the premier Bahamian Bank with branches located in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Abaco. We are committed to delivering superior quality service, to training and developing our employees, to creating value for our shareholders and to promoting economic growth and stability in the community.

ROLE OVERVIEW: MINISTER for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville, speaking yesterday.

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net DISCUSSIONS are underway for the implementation of a trained clinical nursing programme in Freeport to address the shortage of nurses in Grand Bahama.

Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville met with representatives of the Ministry of Health, the Public Hospitals Authority and the College of the Bahamas at the Ministry of Grand Bahama on Wednesday.

“We are working together to find a mechanism for training clinical nurses that will play an intricate role for the launch of National Health Insurance and improve the quality of health care in Grand Bahama,” he said.

Dr Darville said many nurses are being recruited internationally from the English-speaking Caribbean, which is causing a shortage of nurses in the region.

“Today the meeting is to discuss the shortage of manpower resources and the way forward to implement an important programme to fill essential gaps in the clinics and tertiary facilities,” he said.

“Over the years, we know that a lot of our nurses are always picked off internationally,” he said. And what is happening over the years, there has also been a shortage of nurses graduating from the nursing school at the COB and as a result government saw fit to introduce and have the trained clinical nurse programme re-establish throughout the Bahamas to fill the necessary gaps at the PHA, Department of Public Health, and the Ministry of Health.”

Dr Darville said that Macy Evans, acting permanent secretary at the Ministry of Health, and Marcel Johnson, director of nursing at the ministry, are in Grand Bahama taking part in the discussions.

In addition to the meeting, he said, they will have the opportunity to tour the outlying clinics as well.

“We will come up with ideas for the necessary requirements and fill the gaps in the nurses programme to provide better quality service in Grand Bahama and for the launch of NHI,” he said.

Ms Johnson said earlier this year, Cabinet approved the programme for trained clinical nurses certificate in Grand Bahama.

“We are very excited because we are hoping to train 25 students as trained clinical nurses through an 18-month programme we will do in collaboration with the COB in January 2017,” he said.

Ms Johnson said they are providing funding for the programme which is held exclusively at COB. She said interested candidates are required to have five BJC certificates, with a health science subject as well as two others at grades C and above.

The position of Human Resources Officer is an important position within the Bank responsible for providing support to the Compensation & Benefits Unit and by extension the Human Resources Department to enhance the efficient service rendered to all employees and performing all functions in a professional manner.

DUTIES: The Human Resource Officer is responsible for providing support in the human resource functions for the compensation & benefits unit. These duties include, but are not limited to:- processing payroll and payroll related payments, completing reconciliations and preparing reports.

QUALIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Management, Accounting or related field • Obtained or pursuing PHR or PHRi certification • Minimum of 3 years’ supervisory experience KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES: Knowledge: The incumbent must have proficient knowledge in the following areas: • Human resources management • Human resources information systems – ABRA and Crystal Reporting  Accounting • Mentoring and coaching • Understanding of the relevant local legislation and HR policies and procedures Skills: The incumbent must demonstrate the following skills: • Strong supervisory skills • Team building skills • Problem solving skills • Strong customer service skills and the ability to deliver consistent high quality service • Effective verbal, and listening communications skills with demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with Management and colleagues • Effective written communications skills including the ability to prepare reports, policies and procedures • Strong computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and spreadsheets • Effective organizational skills • Effective time management skills • Stress management skills. Not easily overwhelmed. Able to multi-task in a fast paced working environment while maintaining efficiency and accuracy Personal Attributes: The incumbent must maintain confidentiality, use sound judgement and perform independently while performing the duties of the human resource officer. The incumbent must also demonstrate the following personal attributes: • Maintain standards of conduct • Display characteristics of honesty, integrity and sound work ethics • Be respectful • Be flexible REMUNERATION PACKAGE: Commonwealth Bank is a Great place to work! We offer an exciting work environment with the opportunity for growth and development. We also offer a competitive compensation package, reflecting the successful applicant’s experience and qualifications, including a performance based incentive plan, health, vision, dental and life insurances and a pension plan.

Qualified individuals should complete an online application

by September 9, 2016 to:

www.careers.combankltd.com/careers or Submit a resume to: hr@combankltd.com “ Commonwealth Bank sincerely thanks all applicants for their interest in becoming a part of our team, however, only those applications being considered will be contacted.”

FIX MY STREET

PAGE 12, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

An entrepreneurial spirit, original thinking, and a passion to succeed.

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Fidelity Bank invites applications for the position of:

THE JUNCTION of Cowpen Road and Maria Drive.

Photo: Valden Fernander

Network Administrator Job Summary: Responsible for supporting the daily operations of the users, resolving server and computer issues, network installations, troubleshooting and handling user account issues.

Duties and Responsibilities: • Ensure latest service packs, patches and virus updates/definitions are downloaded and being applied as they are made available.

• Manage network firewalls controlling VPN end points for inter branch communications and maintain connectivity for core applications.

• Management and maintenance of PBX communication systems, manage incoming call routing automated attendants, deploy and manage IP/Analog phone devices.

• Create network and exchange profiles for authorized users.

• Troubleshoot technical and operational problems.

• Back up for Manager, IT Infrastructure.

• Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements/Qualifications: • Associates degree in information technology, computer science or equivalent vocational training • Minimum 2 years in a mid-level information technology position • Proven ability to support AS/400 and core banking platform • MCP Qualification • DB Management Skills • Basics of IP Telephony and PBX integration • Strong verbal and written communication • Exemplary interpersonal skills • Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines

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HUMAN RESOURCES Re: Network Administrator, careers@fidelitybahamas.com

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A competitive compensation package will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualification.

BREADFRUIT Street in Pinewood Gardens.

THE New Providence main road and walk to their pothole plague, the scourge respective homes. of motorists throughout the “Furthermore, they do island, continues to anger not even try to patch up any and frustrate residents with of the old or new holes and some “craters” in the road craters they create. Only causing damage to cars. after I spoke with an emThe Tribune has been ployee at Ministry of Works out and about, responding (Road Maintenance/Reto complaints from read- pair) about two weeks ago, ers, and photographing the someone came and patched terrible state of the roads, some of the holes with just some of which have been curry/dirt. We all know that left unfilled after corpora- that is not a good idea as tion works. anytime it rains, that would One resident of Bread- just be washed away. fruit Street, Pinewood Gar“Thus the craters are dens, complained that for reappearing. I would apthe past few months, the preciate if Water and SewWater and Sewerage Cor- erage would do whatever poration has been doing they have to do at one time work in the Pinewood area. and stop continuously ‘reThe ‘craters’ existing be- digging’ the roads and the fore that exercise have been entire street needs to be made worse. “It seemed stripped and repaved now. as if every two weeks they No government agency pays would return and dig up an- for brakes and shocks etc. other portion of the road,” We have to drive on this the resident said. “There street every single day. The were times that residents dust issue on that street is would have to park on the another story due to the

Photo: Valden Fernander continuous Water and Sewerage ‘re-digging’.

Other areas that have attracted complaints are Cowpen Road, by the junction with Maria Drive, where Sisal Road meets Blue Hill Road in Golden Isles and in the Ridgeland area by East-West Highway.

There it is not just potholes but unfinished road repairs.

And not far from The Tribune’s office, a huge hole has been opening up for weeks at the junction of East Bay Street and Deveaux Street which forces drivers to manoeuvre around it.

The Tribune has been drawing attention to areas that are being neglected, or are unsightly, unhealthy and being ignored by the relevant authorities, whether they be potholes in the road, uncollected garbage or abandoned cars.

• Email fixmystreet@tribunemedia.net to let us know your issues.

Teachers & Salaried Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited

OUR NEW OFFICE HOURS

A DEEP pothole at the end of Deveaux Street which catches motorists turning onto and off East Bay Street.

Photo: Valden Fernander

The right Credit Union for you!

To our valued members PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF OUR NEW OFFICE HOURS COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2016 MONDAY—THURSDAY: 9:30 a.m.—4:00 p.m.

FRIDAY 9:30 a.m.— 5:00 p.m.

Sorry for any inconvenience we may have caused!

LARGE potholes at the junction of Sisal Road West and Blue Hill Road South in Golden Gates.

Photo: Valden Fernander

Teachers & Salaried Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited East Street & Independence Drive P. O. Box N-8325 Nassau, The Bahamas Ph. (242) 502-9236 Fax: (242) 356-9691 RIDGELAND near East-West Highway.

Photo: John Arty

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 13

THE BAHAMAS National Children’s Choir is pictured performing at Scotiabank’s 60th anniversary celebration.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

SEAN ALBERT, vice-president and district head Caribbean North, Scotiabank, is pictured speaking at Scotiabank’s celebration of 60 years of operating in The Bahamas.

SCOTIABANK CELEBRATES

60TH ANNIVERSARY SCOTIABANK celebrated its diamond anniversary representing 60 years of operation in the Bahamas yesterday.

Government officials, industry executives, longstanding customers, community leaders and bank personnel gathered at the event, held at the bank’s Rawson Square branch.

“We are proud to have served the Bahamian community for the past 60 years, providing advice and financial solutions to persons and their businesses,” said Sean Albert, Caribbean North vice president

& district head.

Long-standing customers who have spent up to six decades with the bank were recognised at the event.

At noon yesterday, employees released 60 balloons in Rawson Square to signal the start of the 60day, 60th anniversary celebrations which will include a church service; customer appreciation events; health and wellness fair; fun, run, walk; and community project.

The Bahamas National Children’s Choir performed at Wednesday’s launch event.

PAGE 14, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Sun Oil helping returning students SUN Oil Limited, a subsidiary of FOCOL Holdings Limited, continues to demonstrate its commitment to education and youth development in the Bahamas.

The company recently hosted a “back to school” event in Marsh Harbour, Abaco at the Abaco Central High School. The event provided a fun-filled atmosphere for the children, incorporating givea-

ways, food, games and even health screenings as part of the preparation for the new school year.

Children from most of the communities on mainland Abaco attended the event receiving much needed school supplies.

“Over 1,000 kids were here today,” said Sun Oil’s Marketing Manager Rufus Johnson. “They got bags, notebooks - the smiles on

their faces were thank you enough. Sun Oil is very happy to have been apart of something like this. We thank the facilitators here at the school in Abaco and all of the volunteers that came out from the various institutions.”

In expressing the pleasure of the company to be able to give back to Bahamian youth, Mr Johnson said: “Sun Oil and Shell

have been apart of the Abaco community for a very long time. The Abaco community has been very good to us and we’re pleased to be giving back to the community.”

Sun Oil not only gave away school items, but also invested in two vital areas of student preparation for the new school year: grooming and health.

“We have barbers and hair braiders on duty all free of charge for the kids and we invited the health care professionals from the clinic to provide health screenings such as blood pressure and glucose testing,” said Mr Johnson.

Sun Oil has emerged as an integrated energy supplier with unique capacity and capabilities to help businesses succeed.

Sun Oil Limited is the largest wholesaler of petroleum products within the Bahamas with a footprint that spans the chain of islands, including a network of bulk fuel storage terminals located in Abaco, New Providence, Exuma, Eleuthera and San Salvador.

ABOVE and below, children at the event hosted by Sun Oil.

READERS GIVE VIEWS ON ISSUES IN NEWS READERS have been offering their views on this week’s news on tribune242. com.

After DNA Leader Branville McCartney confirmed that he, along with senior members of the FNM and other third party executives, met to discuss how to “get rid of” the Progressive Liberal Party, Emac said: “Boy this one arrogant man. He just doesn’t get it! No man is an island. If he really love the Bahamas and the Bahamian people like he claims, then he would drop all of his ego and do what is in the best interest of the Bahamas. But let me say this: If the PLP wins another election because of the situation similar to last election, when FNMs voted DNA, Bahamians will never ever forgive this man. It is so regrettable that there are no political hopefuls out who are campaigning on the basis of a better Bahamas, rather than just self interests. The Bahamas is in for a bumpy ride!”

John thought Mr McCartney was in a favourable position: “A split and splintered opposition to the PLP cannot win a general election. Not only because the will split up and have to share the opposition votes, but also because voters will get mixed votes and decide to vote PLP. Call it arrogance, but Branville McCartney finds himself in a strange and favorable position. He has proven that his newly formed DNA party has hang time as it has not only survived the five years between elections, but it has also been highly visible and very active. With the FNM seeming to be under attack from all quarters and especially from within, Branville’s party appear like a fresh bright rose in a field of weeds. The DNA has everything to lose if they decide to join up with the FNM and don’t dot all the ‘i’s’ and cross all the ‘t’s’.

Meantime the FNM seem

more ruffled and raggedy as it has ever been since its inception. The party never seemed to get its bearings ever since the day Hubert A. Ingraham resigned as leader, walked out and slammed the door behind him.”

And there was a lively reaction to the news that today’s meeting between the Prime Minister and trade union leaders is said to be “critical” in determining whether the labour movement will make good on threats to “shut the town down”.

GrassRoot said: “So it’s okay for the unions to shut down the country over their grievances, but its not okay for employers to shut down.

Maybe employers don’t have a choice? Maybe they get shut down by this Government’s governing . . . ” Alfalfa thought recently proposed labour legislation should be amended: “I think the legislation they are proposing, that will criminally charge employers who don’t get government approval prior to staff cutbacks or redundancies, needs to be amended to imprison union leaders, who threaten the Government with a ‘country-wide shut down’ if their demands are not met.”

And there was this from Greentea: “Christie – you have ONE choice. Call their bluff. Call it. I am willing to bet that in these perilous times Ferguson and Pinder will be out there by themselves. Wait a minute - they get paid come hell or high water. I hope their union members understand that.”

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

ISLAND LUCK SYSTEM CERTIFIED ISLAND Luck yesterday announced that its gaming system had been tested and fully certified

by Gaming Laboratories International.

Playtech Systems Lim-

ited - which trades as Island Luck - said that the testing was in accordance with the standards in the Bahamas Gaming Act and Regulations 2014, as well as international standards.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, September 8, 2016, PAGE 15

JEROME Forbes during BREEF’s marine conservation teacher training workshop.

TEACHERS LEARN ABOUT CONSERVATION TEACHERS have been taking part in a workshop helping them to learn first hand about conservation.

BREEF’s 18th Marine Conservation Teacher Training Workshop (TTW) was held in July, including conch anatomy demonstrations, rocky shore explorations, snorkeling in a mangrove creek, interactive presentations and a guest

presentation by Bonefish Tarpon Trust, “This has been one of the most productive weeks of my life,” said Latrell Bethel, of LN Coakley High School, Exuma. “As a teacher on a family island, professional development opportunities are not easy to come, and I am so grateful to have had the honor of experiencing this workshop. I was more

than impressed ... I am now looking forward to teaching marine science and sustainability topics like those presented here.”

For more information about BREEF and its workshops - or to learn how to sponsor a teacher for the 2017 workshop, email breef@breef.org, call 3279000 or visit www.breef. org.

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PAGE 16, Thursday, September 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

STACEY Albury with a big ‘bug’ speared by her husband, Nathan, near Green Turtle Cay, Abaco.

A PICTURE of Steve Johnson with an early September Wahoo is hopefully a sign of good things to come according to the Bahamas Sport Fishing Network (BSFN). Already local fishermen are hailing the crawfish season as the best in 20 years.

Keep checking the BSFN expert page for fishing reports throughout The Bahamas: this will be helpful in tracking the “hot spots”

and providing advice on gear and fishing methods being used.

For a sample of the spectacular fishing to be had in The Bahamas, expert advice, tournament dates and results, informative features and photo galleries visit the BSFN page at tribune242. com or www.bsfn.biz. BSFN slideshows can be found on USA Today’s website in the Travel section at experience.usatoday.com.

STEVE Johnson with an early September Wahoo.

CAPTAIN Rudy with nice Grouper duo speared near Nassau.

BSFN expert Chang Chin with a sweet catch near Nassau.

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