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Volume: 120 No.196, October 13, 2023

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UNITED TO BID OBIE FAREWELL

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net WITH reflections about his broadcasting prowess, devotion to constituents and commitment to the Progressive Liberal Party, the nation bade farewell to Obie Wilchcombe yesterday at a state funeral

steeped in tradition, pomp and pageantry.

People laughed, cried and sang hymns at the Christ Church Cathedral more than two weeks after the former West Grand Bahama and Bimini MP unexpectedly died in Grand Bahama.

SEE PAGE FOUR

ROYAL Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) officers march with the Obie Wilchombe’s casket during the state funeral yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Psychiatrist testifies TWO WOMEN ON LEAVE AS POLICE over miscarriage risk INVESTIGATE GB REGISTRAR DEPT

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A PSYCHIATRIST testified yesterday that work stress could have contributed to the miscarriage Alana Major experienced in 2019.

The former senior executive of Family Guardian is suing her former employer, claiming that

when the company failed to approve her request to work remotely, she suffered a painful miscarriage. Her doctor had recommended she work from home because of her high-risk pregnancy.

She miscarried her son, Che Karson Major, on July 31, 2019.

Dr Saphire Longmore

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net TWO women employed by the Parliamentary Registration Department in Grand Bahama were placed on administrative leave yesterday as part of a police investigation, The Tribune understands.

Government officials refused to give details about the probe but insisted the investigation has been ongoing since July 27 and is not directly connected to the upcoming West Grand Bahama and Bimini

SEE PAGE THREE

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

SEE PAGE THREE

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 3

Irregularities alleged, while registrar two woMen on leave as Police investigate reviews complaints over BPSU’s election gb registrar dePt from page one by-election.

Asked if the underlying matter could affect the integrity of an election, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe told The Tribune yesterday: “Everything about anything in the registration department can. The issue simply is how do you address it.”

Asked for details about the probe, he said he must check with the parliamentary commissioner about whether he can discuss it. He said the commissioner is independent of him.

“If he gives me any information, I wouldn’t like to release it without his permission,” he said.

The Tribune was told the matter under investigation relates to activities at the Grand Bahama and New Providence departments.

Arthur Taylor is the acting parliamentary commissioner. He declined to comment yesterday.

Psychiatrist testifies over miscarriage risk

UNOFFICIALLY Kimsley Ferguson won the Bahamas Public Service Union election to be president.

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net THE results of the recent Bahamas Public Services Union’s election have not been certified because the registrar of trade unions is reviewing complaints about irregularities that allegedly happened.

The team incumbent president Kimsley Ferguson, who leads, unofficially won the election, beating groups led

by Alexander Burrows, Jr, and former Labour Director John Pinder.

Van Delaney, the registrar of trade unions, said yesterday he is reviewing the complaints.

The Tribune obtained a letter purportedly signed

by Mr Pinder and Mr Burrows, Jr, which lists their concerns about the election.

The September 28, 2023, letter was sent to Mr Delaney.

Among other things, the

letter said candidates and labour officials received an incomplete register of voters.

The designated officer in Bimini reportedly did not receive a copy of the voter register until 2pm, while the officer in Inagua never received the list.

Agents were allegedly not allowed to witness the counting of ballots before polls opened.

A candidate with a rival team allegedly saw a designated officer receive a

sealed envelope at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium from a candidate from another group.

One polling station at the Department of Environmental Health Services allegedly opened late and closed early.

In Grand Bahama, non-union members were allegedly allowed to vote, and a candidate was observed campaigning less than 50ft from the polling station, according to the letter.

Man killed at job site country’s 77th Murder victiM

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net A MAN was killed at his job site yesterday.

This brings the country’s murder count to 77, according to The Tribune’s records.

Relatives identified the victim as Leslie Knowles, 26.

The incident occurred shortly after 10am on Baldwin Avenue in Chippingham.

Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson told the press the victim, believed to be in his early twenties, sustained multiple gunshot wounds while standing outside his place of employment, Sands Carwash and Auto Detailing.

A single gunman opened fire on him. He died at the scene. Mr Johnson said the gunman was seen running east on Baldwin Street.

He appealed to members of the “close-knit” community to assist police with their investigation.

ALANA Major arriving at court on Tuesday with her husband.

Photo: Moise Amisial from page one

THE JOB site where a man identified by relatives as Leslie Knowles, was shot an killed yesterday.

Photo: Moise Amisial

said Mrs Major experienced stress in various ways while employed at Family Guardian.

She noted the plaintiff’s employer and insurance provider were the same entity, a fact that could have caused Mrs Major to experience distress if she felt the company did not take her doctor’s recommendation seriously.

Dr Longmore said Mrs Major did not get the kind of care she gave to clients, creating conflict in her psyche.

The doctor said psychosocial stress can adversely affect pregnancies and potentially cause stillbirth.

Dr Longmore said she believes the outcome of Mrs Major’s pregnancy would have differed if Family Guardian had agreed to her remote work request.

She said she interviewed Mrs Major and her hus

band after the miscarriage.

She said both showed signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

She said Mrs Major also exhibited symptoms of persistent complex bereavement disorder and a phobia of the work environment. She said acute stress disorder is a precursor to PTSD, and it is highly likely Mrs Major’s stress was diagnosable leading up to the miscarriage.

Dr Longmore disagreed with the suggestion of Robert Adams –– Family Guardian’s lawyer –– that the academic research she referred to in court did not support her opinion that the plaintiff’s work stress resulted in her miscarriage.

When Mrs Major’s lawyer, Sharon Wilson, KC, asked her to estimate how much stress caused the plaintiff’s miscarriage, Dr Longmore said it had a 99.9 per cent chance of contributing.

three iMMigration officers being questioned on fake work PerMits LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net THREE immigration officers are in custody as police investigate a scheme involving fraudulent work permits.

Two civilians are also in custody as part of this probe, according to a police official who spoke to The Tribune anonymously

because they were not authorised to speak to the press.

Two officers were taken into custody on Wednesday, while the third was questioned last week.

The Tribune understands the probe involves a Bahamian male civilian and a foreign woman.

The Tribune’s source said police are in the early stages of the investigation.

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PAGE 4, Friday, October 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

United to bid farewell to Obie from page one Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, former Prime Minister Perry Christie, and Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard painted Mr Wilchcombe as the ultimate statesman and public servant whose appeal transcended party politics.

Mr Christie said Mr Wilchcombe learned to be a statesman from former Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling, his political hero.

He said Mr Wilchcombe’s background in broadcasting, communication skills and ability to mix well among tourism industry elites made him the perfect choice to be minister of tourism during the two terms he was prime minister.

He said the country’s response to Mr Wilchcombe’s death showed how much people appreciated him.

Mr Pintard described Mr Wilchcombe as a talented storyteller who bridged political divides by resisting tribalistic behaviour.

During parliamentary debates, Mr Pintard said, Mr Wilchcombe played the role of peacemaker.

Sometimes, when opposition members argued with

GOVERNOR General Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt sits somberly at the state funeral for Obediah ’Obie’ Wilchcombe yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer

House Speaker Patricia Deveaux, Mr Wilchcombe would intervene and push for a recess.

“He sought to lower the temperature,” Mr Pintard said. “Members of the opposition respected Obediah Wilchcombe, and we will miss him.”

Mr Davis, who met Mr Wilchcombe in the 1970s, said his friend ran for office in 2021 despite earlier health challenges.

“He assured me that he was fit for the job,” Mr Davis said. “He rejected any suggestion that he take on a gentler role. I’m happy that I took him at his word.”

Mr Davis said Mr Wilchcombe was surprised to be appointed minister of Social Services and Urban Renewal but embraced the role with passion and flair. He said he was enthusiastic about getting additional roles recently, including responsibility for broadcasting.

Rev. Harry Bain reflected on Mr Wilchcombe’s legacy.

“His warmth and kindness touched the lives of countless individuals leaving a lasting impression that will forever be cherished,” he said. “As we mourn his sudden passing, let us not forget the lessons he imparted upon us.”

Yesterday’s event was the first state funeral since former Governor General Arthur Dion Hanna died in 2021.

The trappings of a state funeral were on full display.

Mr Wilchcombe’s relatives wore all-black attires with a yellow rose pinned on their collars. Parliamentarians wore all-black outfits with a black band on their arms. Hundreds of law enforcement officers were present, as were leading government officials and clergymen.

Many residents and tourists stopped to view the procession to and from the church.

At the end, Mr Wilchcombe’s coffin was transported from Christ Church Cathedral to the front of Rawson Square, where it was wrapped with a Bahamian flag for a mock burial. The hymn “Amazing Grace” rang somberly through the air.

Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers later performed a 21-gun salute in his honour.

On Saturday, a funeral service for Mr Wilchcombe will be held in Grand Bahama. His body will rest in the West End Public Cemetery.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 5

Bishop Grant considered frontrunner for West GB and Bimini seat for FNM

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net BISHOP Ricardo Grant, the frontrunner to be the Free National Movement’s candidate in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency in the upcoming by-election, believes his work as a religious leader is a solid foundation for launching a political career.

“When it comes to service and servitude, who better to speak to service and servitude like a minister,” he said yesterday.

“That’s what we’ve been bred to do.”

The FNM has not officially selected Bishop Grant as its candidate, and the date of the by-election

is still unknown. However, Bishop Grant is the only person party insiders are discussing for the role.

Pakesia Parker-Edgecombe, the former West Grand Bahama and Bimini MP, told The Tribune earlier this week that she supports Bishop Grant’s bid.

Bishop Grant, 55, was born in Hanna Hill, Eight Mile Rock. He is the pastor of Community Holiness Church in Eight Mile Rock and Universal Household of Faith on Hawksbill Road.

He described himself as a family man and said he had been preaching from an early age.

He said job opportunities are the most important issue for West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituents,

many struggling to obtain upward mobility.

He said moving into politics does not diminish his standing as a religious leader.

“If I do not offer myself for service,” he said, “then like the good book says, your salt will lose its savour.”

Conventional wisdom is that by-elections could favour governing parties because their representatives are better positioned to address the concerns of residents.

“I hear that, and I hear that cry and that plight,” Bishop Grant said. However, he said he believes anyone sent to represent people can be effective, whether they are in government or opposition.

BISHOP RICARDO GRANT, the frontrunner to be the Free National Movement’s candidate in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency in the upcoming by-election.

FORMER Prime Minister Perry Christie, Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and FNM leader Michael Pintard speak at the state funeral for Obediah Wilchcombe.

Photo: Dante Carrer

PAGE 6, Friday, October 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

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Constituents deserve an MP that is not MIA THERE are some telling words from 79-year-old ice cream parlour owner Diana Beneby in today’s Tribune.

The North Andros resident has, like so many of her fellow islanders, been frustrated by the power problems experienced there. This has been a long-standing issue – but a disaster since the fire that destroyed a BPL station in July.

The four most telling words she says are: “Our MP is MIA.” She talks of how “there’s no voice to speak for us”.

That MP is Leonardo Lightbourne, who has not been particularly vocal since taking office. Back in August, however, he did find his voice to speak about the issue – but only to warn residents protesting against the power problems that they should be careful about “making this a political matter”.

At the time, Mr Lightbourne said that BPL was working “assiduously” to resolve the electrical issues. He said: “This matter is being treated with the highest level of urgency and it will continue to be addressed as such. Also, we remain in dialogue with all stakeholders as we try our best to bring resolve to this vexing load shedding in North Andros. Please do not allow individuals with other agendas to make this a political matter because it affects all of us and goes beyond the political boundary lines.”

The warning seems to have come about because a former FNM MP, Carlton Bowleg, a resident of the island attended the demonstration at the time – but political sniping aside, the main points you should note are that the matter that is being treated “with the highest level of urgency” is still not resolved and that however assiduously BPL staff are working, the problem is still there, months later.

Mr Lightbourne has not been heard speaking up to excoriate BPL for leaving his constituents in this situation. He has not described how he is urging the Prime Minister to intervene to help people. In short, as his constituent says, he is MIA on behalf of those who voted him in, it seems.

The reason we highlight this is because, as we all know, a by-election looms in the seat of West End and

Bimini.

Today, the country mourned at the state funeral for Obie Wilchcombe, the MP for that constituency and the Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting.

Tomorrow, more consideration will be given to who will seek to fill his shoes in West End and Bimini.

For constituents, it is an important choice. Not only do they need to decide which party they vote in, but also which individual. They do not want to end up with an MP that is MIA. They want to make sure that the current administration gives due attention to their needs. They want to make sure that they have the ear of government and, as Ms Beneby is looking for, a voice to speak for them.

So it is an important choice to be made – and before long we shall see who is in the race.

Those candidates should have to prove themselves – this should not be a seat that is taken for granted by any political leader.

There are many considerations to bear in mind for voters. The general election is still years away, so who will be the best bet to ensure the years between now and then are not wasted?

Will it be a candidate from the constituency itself? Will it be an outsider, perhaps a big name? We know Shane Gibson has been mentioned as a possibly interested contender – though to some ructions within the PLP hierarchy. Will it be a man or a woman who gets the nomination? For all the lip service about broadening representation of women in Parliament, so far the only female candidate in the race is independent Terneille Burrows. Neither of the major parties seem to be leaning towards a woman for the seat so far.

What matters most – for those who have a vote – is getting the person who can best represent them. So as the race begins, we hope those candidates will use their time and energy to show residents what they can offer.

West End and Bimini need to have strong leadership – and not have constituents feeling like Ms Beneby, in the dark and looking at rising costs and low income.

No constituency deserves an MP who is MIA – when the time comes, make a wise choice.

CYNTHIA ‘Mother’ Pratt as she attended the state funeral for Obediah ‘Obie’ Wilchcombe yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Take your own advice, Mitchell EDITOR, The Tribune.

Now deal with signs and shacks EDITOR, The Tribune.

If I might piggy back on the resounding result of the Atlantis Aerodrome town hall meeting on Tuesday night. I have never heard people speak so passionately against what was being proposed and I actually had the feeling that what they felt about Fort Montagu is that it is a sacred place.

I would like to see if there is any appetite within the Parks and Beaches

Authority for meeting with these same residents of New Providence to discuss the disgrace that has and is taking place at this very same park that we all love and revere so much.

I am speaking about the ongoing proliferation of signage and shanty shacks that have been allowed, or even encouraged to be placed any and everywhere on the periphery of the park. I am told that Parks and Beaches has control over these

things and will even take a fee to allow someone to erect whatever signage or shanty shack they want.

If the Minister would be so kind as to indicate his most convenient time to meet, I will be very happy to arrange a suitable venue and organise the residents.

Please WhatsApp a good time to meet with us 457-3462 Mr Bonaby!

BRUCE G RAINE Nassau, October 12, 2023.

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IN POLITICS and life, self-awareness is often the hardest but most essential virtue. It’s this very virtue that the respected chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Mr Fred Mitchell, recently invoked when commenting on the importance of former public figures recognising when it’s time to move on. It’s both ironic and poignant that Mr Mitchell, having turned 70 and holding the dual roles of chairman of the PLP and Minister of Foreign Affairs, seems not to apply this wisdom to his own situation.

Let’s take a moment to unpack the layered implications of Mr Mitchell’s statements and the broader context in which they are made. He’s right in asserting the importance of self-awareness and timely exits in public life. The ebbs and flows of politics demand that leaders not only guide their parties and nations through various challenges but also recognise when fresh perspectives and energies are needed.

Mr Mitchell’s broad and successful tenure is commendable, but one must critically ask: Is it tenable for one individual to effectively shoulder the responsibilities of two

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net such demanding roles, especially at a juncture when the PLP needs rigorous, undivided attention to strategise for the imminent general elections? A party’s strength lies not just in its legacy but its ability to adapt, evolve, and rejuvenate.

The PLP, with its storied history and contributions to our nation, deserves a full-time chairman who can focus solely on harnessing the energies and aspirations of its members, especially the youth.

Furthermore, the undercurrents of Mr Mitchell’s comments regarding the West Grand Bahama and Bimini byelection, particularly in relation to Shane Gibson, raise questions. While internal party dynamics are complex, it’s essential that senior party figures approach such situations with utmost diplomacy and fairness. Disputes and disagreements are inevitable in politics, but airing them publicly and picking fights not only undermines party unity but also distracts from the larger issues at hand. Mr Mitchell would do well

to remember that it’s the PLP’s collective strength and vision that will resonate with the electorate, not individual skirmishes.

In his discourse, Mr Mitchell referenced the wisdom of Sidney Poitier and John Profumo, both of whom recognised the power of self-reflection and recalibration. Perhaps it’s time for him to deeply introspect and consider if he’s truly serving the best interests of the PLP by holding onto both roles. It might be more beneficial for him to focus on one, allowing fresh leadership to emerge and guide the party into its next chapter.

While Mr. Mitchell’s dedication to the PLP and our nation is unquestionable, it’s crucial for him, and for all of us, to critically analyse the situation.

The PLP’s future vibrancy and relevance hinges on its ability to blend legacy with innovation. This calls for leadership that is attuned to the changing times, receptive to fresh ideas, and, above all, self-aware.

Thank you for the space to share these insights. It is my hope that we can all look to the future of the PLP with both respect for its past and optimism for its potential.

The Gate Keeper October 12, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 7

Priest confident government will amend Cannabis Bill to accommodate Rastafarians

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrrolle@tribunemedia.net

RASTAFARIAN Priest Rithmond McKinney said he is confident the Davis administration will amend its draft cannabis legislation to create a regime more accommodating to the practices of local Rastafarians.

He said Attorney General Ryan Pinder told him a new round of consultations on draft cannabis bills released in August should begin next week.

Priest McKinney, the primary person from the Rastafarian community consulting the government, spoke to reporters after an event at the Superclubs Breezes resort last night. The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources hosted the event –– a discussion about cannabis in the region –– as part of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture.

Several Rastafarians attended the forum and shared their concerns about the draft cannabis bills.

The legislation would let Rastafarian organisations get a religious use licence to distribute cannabis to members as a sacrament.

The substance, however, could only be used on the premises for which the licence or exempt event permit is issued.

People with a religious

use licence could apply for a cultivation licence. They would have to outline the total surface area where the budding or flowering cannabis plants must be contained, an area not exceeding 538 square feet.

They could also secure an exempt event permit to worship or fellowship at a specified public place.

The permit would allow a licensee to transport no more than 14 grams of cannabis to a public place.

Rastafarians said most practitioners are part of the Bobo Ashanti, a mansion that does not use cannabis in tabernacles.

“The government is still finding out exactly how the rasta man uses the cannabis,” Priest McKinney said.

He said he had told government officials it would be unacceptable to limit them to using cannabis only in tabernacles.

“They definitely decide to change that, of course,” he said. “So that’s not a problem right now.”

He said his community wants to be involved in the manufacture and cultivation elements of the cannabis industry.

Under the proposed legislation, only people who have never been convicted of an offence under the Dangerous Drugs Act, the Proceeds of Crime Act, or the Criminal Justice (International Cooperation Act) would be eligible for a licence.

RASTAFARIANS attended a forum on the Cannabis Bill last night.

One Rastafarian last night said this provision would exempt the people who are most experienced with the substance, given that many of them have faced cannabis-related charges before. He said the provision is unfair.

Deon Gibson, a consultant agriculturist in the Department of Agriculture, revealed that the government had allocated land to cultivate cannabis.

He declined to give further details.

Agriculture and Marine Science Minister Jomo Campbell declined to discuss how much land had been allocated for this purpose.

man granted $9,000 Bail aFter allegedly Being Found with $40k worth oF cocaine

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was granted $9,000 bail after allegedly being found with $40,000 worth of cocaine in his Stapledon Gardens home earlier this week.

Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged Calvin

Jean-Baptiste, 31, with possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply.

Baptiste allegedly had more than five pounds of cocaine, which police found in two grey packages in his bedroom closet on October 9. The drugs seized in this raid have an estimated street value of $40,000.

After pleading not guilty, the accused was informed that as a condition of his release, he must sign in at the Grove Police Station every Wednesday and Saturday by 6pm. Baptiste also will be fitted with an electronic monitoring device.

His trial begins on November 1.

two men charged with poSSeSSion oF an unlicenced Firearm granted $7k Bail each

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net TWO men were granted bail after they were accused of having a loaded gun in their jeep outside a lounge on West Bay Street last week.

Magistrate Raquel Whyms charged Durelle

Williams, 37, and Nico Flowers, 42, with possession of an unlicenced firearm and ammunition.

The two men were arrested outside Vapor’s Lounge after police allegedly found a black 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol and eight rounds of 9mm ammunition in their burgundy coloured jeep on October 2.

After both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges, their bail was set at $7,000 each with one or two sureties. Williams is expected to sign in at Carmichael Road Police Station every Friday, while Flowers is expected to sign in at the Fox Hill Police Station.

The trial in this matter begins on November 29.

Sam Bankman-Fried’S lawyer StruggleS in croSSexamination oF the government’S key witneSS NEW YORK Associated Press SAM Bankman-Fried’s lawyer struggled through a meandering cross-examination of the FTX founder’s former girlfriend Thursday, keeping both the judge and the public guessing as to the defense team’s strategy in countering the testimony of the government’s key witness.

Caroline Ellison had testified over the two previous days that Bankman-Fried directed her at several times over the years to pull money from FTX customer accounts to fund investments and trading strategies at Bankman-Fried’s cryptocurrency hedge fund, Alameda Research. Ellison was the CEO of Alameda when it and FTX collapsed in November of last year.

Ellison spent much of her testimony walking the jury through how she repeatedly had to tap into the customer deposits at FTX to solve problems at the hedge fund or at the exchange. FTX deposits would be withdrawn to pay for new investments or political donations, or to hide steep losses on

Alameda’s balance sheet, she testified. All of this was done at the direction of BankmanFried, she said.

Ellison, 28, pleaded guilty to fraud charges in December, when Bankman-Fried was extradited to the United States from the Bahamas.

Bankman-Fried, 31, was the majority owner and CEO of FTX until the crypto exchange filed for bankruptcy on Nov. 11. He has pleaded not guilty to fraud charges.

Bankman-Fried’s lead defense attorney, Mark Cohen was expected to try to shift the blame for the problems at Alameda to Ellison, following up on his opening statement in the trial where he said Bankman-Fried didn’t commit fraud and instead was trying to clean up a mess largely created by his lieutenants.

Cohen, however, seemed to struggle in his questioning of Ellison, failing to knock any holes in her testimony.

He repeatedly changed topics, changed dates of discussion, often seemingly at random.

At one point, Cohen apologized for referencing a wrong document. Another

CAROLINE Ellison former CEO of Alameda Research founded

by Sam Bankman-Fried exits court after testifying on Tuesday in New York.

Photo: E Munoz Alvarez/AP

time he paused because he “lost my place.”

Several times, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan had to ask Cohen where he was going with his questions or what exactly he was talking about.

“Maybe this is a good time for a break,” Cohen said after an hour of his crossexamination of Ellison.

Initially confined to his parents’ Palo Alto, California, home under terms of a $250 million bond, Bankman-Fried has been jailed since August after Judge Kaplan concluded that he had tried to improperly influence potential witnesses, including Ellison.

Photo: Moise Amisial

‘Our MP is MIA’ says North Andros shop owner as BPL woes continue

By LETRE SWEETING Tribune Staff Reporter lsweeting@tribunemedia.net A 79-YEAR-OLD ice cream parlour owner in North Andros says the cost of maintaining a generator to power her appliances when the electricity goes off exceeds what she makes from her business.

Diana Beneby said the power in Mastic Point sometimes goes off for up to 11 hours.

She is the latest resident on the island to complain to the press about something they believe is getting insufficient attention from government officials in New Providence.

“Our MP is MIA,” she said, referring to Leonardo Lightbourne.

“There’s no voice to speak for us. Would somebody do something for North

Andros because the government has money to go here, there and everywhere, and the workers in this BPL station are working with the garbage they are sent.”

The unreliability of electricity in North Andros intensified after a catastrophic fire destroyed a Bahamas Power and Light station there in July.

Ms Beneby said she had spent more than $1,000 on fuel since then to maintain her propane generator.

She said since June, she has not made even $400 in profit from her business.

She said she completed BPL forms for assistance concerning resources damaged by the outages but has got no response.

She said her next step is to petition the public for help.

The power woes on

the island come on top of growing banking woes.

Some North Andros residents travel up to four hours to access an ATM. “I simply don’t know what century it is we’re living in here in North Andros. I know it isn’t the 21st century,” Ms Beneby said.

Loney Storr, who owns a restaurant and a bar, said his power was off for over five hours yesterday.

He said considerable energy and money are spent getting ice, with workers travelling to Central Andros for ice to keep the beers cold. Earlier this summer, they lost beers that went flat.

When the power goes off at his restaurant, the water turns off, too.

“If you don’t have hot water in the restaurant, you can’t wash, you can’t do anything,” he said.

PAGE 8, Friday, October 13, 2023

Edrin Symonette: Keeping traditional farming alive in South Eleuthera EDRIN Symonette has been farming in South Eleuthera for nearly 30 years – nearly half his life. He is gifted with many talents as an artist, entrepreneur, cook, and businessman.

Still, he finds his greatest fulfillment and purpose in farming and being immersed in Eleuthera’s great and wild outdoors.

Edrin belongs to a shrinking pool, but one desperately needed in The Bahamas the traditional farmer.

His focus is primarily free-range farming, where his animals are allowed to roam freely to access water, natural grasses, shrubs and shelter, while Edrin is tasked with ensuring the flock’s safety, health, reproduction and well-being.

His days are joyfully spent outdoors, in his element, where he manages rotating his animals across segmented plots of expansive commonage land that he has spent decades preparing as the ideal grazing fields for his growing collection of cows, sheep and goats, including the South African Dorper and the South African Boer goat.

These are two of the most common goat breeds in South Africa because of their ability to thrive in very arid regions, which has also proven true in the sometimes parched Eleuthera climate.

As part of this year’s Investiture of National Honours, Edrin was selected as an Order of Merit Officer and given accolades for his lifelong service and investment in developing the Bahamas’ agriculture industry, an honour that is well placed.

What is undeniable about Edrin is his humility, deep love and passion for Eleuthera and the local agriculture industry, but at the heart of his mission are people.

As the proprietor of Apple Hole Farm and the Apple Hole Deli and Meat Mart, he prides himself on simply providing his community with the best grass-fed cuts of meats, seasonal citrus produce and savory home-style meals he expertly cooks, using meat harvested from his herds.

It is a Saturday tradition for locals to visit his deli in Rock Sound to enjoy a selection of Bahamian breakfast favorites prepared with Edrin’s

THE TRIBUNE

By Yolanda Pawar of One Eleuthera Foundation

YOLANDA PAWAR special touch, including fresh Mutton and Sheep Tongue Souse, Beef and Mutton Souse, and Stewed Fish and Conch with Johnny Cake followed by a lunch menu of Caribbean Jerk dishes and homemade switcher. From field to fork, it’s all a labour of love and a service he feels privileged to provide.

THE EARLY YEARS Growing up in Rock Sound, Edrin’s initiation into farming came in early childhood. Working alongside his grandfather, Oscar Symonette, he faithfully tended to the family’s crops and livestock, observing traditional, simple farming techniques and practices that still serve him today.

It was his grandfather who taught him the timehonoured skill of plant grafting, a vegetative propagation technique that connects two severed plants that fuse and grow as one plant with one root system.

Grafting is widely used to improve a plant’s resistance to pests and diseases while strengthening its tolerance to adverse conditions. Plant grafting is also where Edrin’s green thumb, resourcefulness, and creativity shine.

“When I started, not having access to funding and finances, I had to learn a lot of the skills to survive in this industry,” he explains. “We had a lot of sour oranges, so I harvested the seeds, planted them, and set up seed beds to produce seedlings that I planted where I wanted in the orchard. I came right behind, and through grafting, I turned the sour oranges into oranges, grapefruits and tangerines.

I had to pay for nothing except the first seeds, and then I was able to reproduce them.” Edrin’s next goal is to expand his orchard to begin growing specialty mangoes. Among the traditional commercial varieties like Valencia and Keitt mangoes, he has his sights set on introducing a cornucopia of exotic new niche mangoes, includSOUTH ELEUTHERA FARMER EDRIN SYMONETTE ing Cotton Candy, Carrie - which has sweet peachy“My ultimate goal is pineapple tones, and the maximising the systems Being free-range livestock, that nature has already to get some of the local no growth hormones or Pina Colada. perfected.

Besides being a schools on my farm to see antibiotics are used in rearWhen asked about his modern-day “Goat Whiswhat I am doing. These ing, which is good for the journey in farming, Edrin perer,” he is a true steward days, there are so many animals, the consumer and quickly admits that as a areas of agriculture that the environment. young man in his early of the land and his animals.

He observes and works Modern farming methods kids can study. We have to twenties, he tried to “run diligently to harness the have undoubtedly made expose them to the older away from his destiny and from the land,” but her call power of nature to main- farmers more productive farming techniques and was too great. After leaving tain and balance itself while and self-dependent, but allow them to build on Eleuthera to complete high supporting the animals sometimes at the risk of this foundation with the within the eco- depleting and overusing latest sustainable farming school in Nassau and pursue system. He natural resources. In speak- techniques and systems,” tertiary studies abroad shares, ing with Edrin about his he explains. in Commercial Art, he Additionally, he plans farming methods, there is returned to Nassau to a palpable sense of interde- to launch into the animal work but did not pendency, reverence, and feed business. The sucfeel fulfilled. Soon cooperation with nature. cess of livestock farming after, he decided For him, it is not about the depends heavily on the to move back to money. This is evident in consistent provision of Eleuthera to help his patient and consistent the highest quality, nutrihis father develop approach to managing each tious animal feed. Over the family’s conresource responsibly and in his career, Edrin has sucstruction business. relation to the seasons, cli- cessfully grown a variety As a hobby, he mate, and the life cycle of of livestock grasses and began keeping a has seen first-hand the his livestock. few goats, and SOUTH African many advantages of good Listening to nature has as he puts Boer (above) been the secret to his lon- animal nutrition. By culit, “I and the South “It’s gevity in the business. tivating his fields to mass African Dorper not just “With my animals, there’s produce hay and silage goat (below). coming out a connection and two-way for feed, he intends to one day and communication. Over the help other small ruminant saying we want years, my goats have taught farmers access locally to feed ourselves. me exactly what they want grown, healthful feed to Over time, we and need to thrive. I pro- increase their herd health must set up sus- vide safety, water, and good and production. tainable systems nutrition, which is paraUÊ 9 > `>Ê *>Ü>ÀÊ ÃÊ that actually mount. They respond by the Chief Communicawork and will flourishing, growing and tions Officer at the One continue to pro- reproducing.”

Eleuthera Foundation. duce and increase Edrin has also invested Established in 2012, the food production heavily in developing and One Eleuthera Foundain this country. We strengthening his goat herd tion (OEF) is a non-profit fell have to look at long-term by crossbreeding pure Boer organisation located in in love systems to reach our food bloodlines with native vari- Rock Sound, Eleuthera. with some security goals. The less eties, resulting in a more For more information, visit goats, and the rest is labour-intensive those sys- resilient and robust breed www.oneeleuthera.org or history.” tems are, the better. It’s the that grows quickly, but email info@oneeleuthera.

HIS PHILOSOPHY & labour that’s killing agricul- maintains the heartiness org. The Centre for TrainNATURE’S PERFECT ture right now.” and flavour the local market ing and Innovation (CTI) ECOSYSTEM In his practice, nothing is is accustomed to. is the first and only postsecondary, non-profit What stands out about wasted, including manure, THE NEXT CHAPTER which is collected and used education and training Edrin’s approach to farming Looking forward, Edrin institution and social enteris his unwavering commit- to fertilise the citrus crops. ment to sustainability and It also naturally works to plans to invest his time prise on Eleuthera. CTI revitalize the fields where and efforts in training operates a student trainthe animals graze. With the next generation of ing campus in Rock Sound, no manufactured chemical young farmers in sustain- Eleuthera, with a 16-room inputs, the soil health and able farming and livestock training hotel, restauintegrity are maintained, rearing.

Undoubtedly, rant and farm. For more and the animals consum- he possesses a wealth of information about CTI’s ing the natural vegetation knowledge that must be programmes, email: info@ remain pure and resilient. passed on. oneeleuthera.org.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 9

When the public speaks up, bad ideas can be grounded A UNIQUE thing happened this week. Amid the horror played out on TV screens of violence rocking the Middle East with innocent men, women and children being captured and slaughtered, entire cities and villages burned and destroyed, amidst the burial of a revered Bahamian Cabinet minister who suffered an untimely and shocking death and amidst the tearful memorial for the head boy at QC who died before he had a chance to live, there was a bright and shining light.

The Bahamian public, usually so docile, stood up, spoke out and won.

Atlantis’s proposal to use Montagu as a landing strip for its seaplanes to take guests on Family Island excursions was shot down before it ever got off the ground.

And well it should have been.

That is not said as an anti-Atlantis sentiment.

I consider both president Audrey Oswell and senior vice president Vaughn Roberts friends, with the latter someone I worked with and respected for years. More importantly, Atlantis has been a friend of and to The Bahamas since the early 1990s when the late Sol Kerzner saw the potential of an aging resort and totally transformed and expanded it to the largest private employer in the country.

With local leadership in most roles, it was Atlantis that came to the rescue in times of need, helped buoy communities with parks and playgrounds and computer equipment and before BahaMar it was Atlantis that welcomed Bahamians who were celebrating reunions and graduations.

That said, when the best of people or institutions has an idea that stinks, it

By Diane Phillips deserves to sink before it ever rises. In this case, the proposal to use Montagu foreshore and Montagu Bay as a hub and landing strip for seaplanes, it was an idea that deserved to be grounded before it ever had lift-off.

No one is criticising Atlantis for the concept of broadening the guest experience. As the property shows its age, forcing it to compete harder for guests, it makes good sense to increase the guest experience with options for excursions to both Spanish Wells and Kamalame Cay. In fact, it makes a lot of very attractive business sense. A partnership with a seaplane company makes it even more attractive. Stay at Atlantis and see more of The Bahamas.

The only problem with the new competitive edge curve was the crazy idea that the seaplanes that would deliver guests to those destinations would land and take off from a bay where every day dozens of people swim, where on holidays those numbers swell to the hundreds, where several days a week kids from all over New Providence put their Optis or Sunfish in the water and learn how to sail – carrying on the tradition of what was recently named the national sport.

How can anyone entertain the idea of operating a plane, seaplane or otherwise, in the midst of a public park and swim area?

Sure, I am

A BIRD IN THE HAND Never has the definition of a bird in the hand been truer. This little wren flew into a window at our home this week. My husband, Larry, rescued him (her?) from the ground where I was sure it was going to perish but in the vein of never agreeing with any opinion of mine, or mostly never agreeing Larry was certain the little bird was just stunned so he held and stroked the wounded or stunned baby until it went from his hand to the table, steadied itself for a moment or two, and flew off. But I was sure I saw it look back as it made its way.

extraordinarily passionate about Montagu, the foreshore that several of us worked tirelessly for one year to save, under then MP for the area Loretta Butler-Turner’s directive, is a precious treasure to be enjoyed by and preserved for the Bahamian public.

We spent endless hours campaigning to revitalise the area, expand its capacity, landscape the southern side, create a quarter mile of parking, build restrooms, provide proper facilities for fishers, including running water.

The revitalisation gave rise to a whole new economy.

No longer were fishermen fighting over tiny territory on a crowded ramp with trucks and trailers hauling boats as they tried to sell their catch from tables covered with flies.

And who covered most of the $1m cost to recover the lost area of Montagu for the pleasure of the public? Atlantis.

Atlantis money funded the restoration and revitalisation of Montagu.

Bless the folks who made it happen, including Ed Fields.

But these words are not penned to record the history of Montagu, nor are they intended to point a finger at the entity that was close to taking away the public park, green space, swimming, sailing and recreational haven its own bountiful and well-intended funding had created.

No, these words are about something even more

THE BAHAMIAN PUBLIC, USUALLY SO DOCILE, STOOD UP, SPOKE OUT AND WON.

significant – the impact of public participation.

On Tuesday evening, nearby residents and those opposed to what would

have become a noisy seaplane hub stood up for their neighbourhood, their rights and they spoke out against it. They stood up for the children and teens who sail in Montagu Bay several times a week. They stood up for the Family Island residents who gather in Nassau for reunions and fundraisers. They stood up and they spoke out for what was right and they pointed out what was wrong. And they won.

Acting Port Controller Berne Wright, an experienced executive who held high-ranking posts in the Royal Bahamas Defense Force, listened to those voices and denied the Atlantis proposal to use Montagu.

There are other active protests – a group of residents in Love Beach who are passionately opposed to developer Jason Kinsale’s proposed Passion Point high-rise for fear it will forever change their quiet, tranquil way of life.

There may be two sides to that story as Kinsale is a successful developer whose projects provide hundreds of jobs and boost the economy, but if nearby residents protest, clamoring that the proposed project is too tall, out of character for their quaint village style, their voices may be heard.

Just as the Organisation for Responsible Government (ORG) says, you cannot complain if you do not participate.

What the lesson of the thwarted seaplane plan taught is this: when the public speaks up, when the reasoning is sound and the rule of law is obeyed, bad ideas can be silenced.

As for that seaplane idea, moving it down the harbour is not a better plan.

Making the ride to Odyssey and a tour of historic Nassau part of the excursion experience may make guests more eager to get out and see what lies beyond the famed resort of Atlantis.

PAGE 10, Friday, October 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Israel says aid will not flow until Hamas releases hostages JERUSALEM Associated Press THE Israeli military pulverized the Gaza Strip with airstrikes, prepared for a possible ground invasion and said Thursday its complete siege — which has left Palestinians desperate for food, fuel and medicine — would remain in place until the Hamas militants that rule the territory freed some 150 hostages taken during a grisly weekend incursion.

A visit by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, along with shipments of US weapons, were a powerful green light to Israel to drive ahead with its retaliation in Gaza after Hamas’ deadly attack on civilians and soldiers, even as international aid groups warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Israel has halted deliveries of basic necessities and electricity to Gaza’s 2.3 million people and prevented entry of supplies from Egypt.

“Not a single electricity switch will be flipped on, not a single faucet will be turned on, and not a single fuel truck will enter until the Israeli hostages are returned home,” Israeli Energy Minister Israel Katz said on social media.

Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, an Israeli military spokesman, told reporters Thursday that forces “are preparing for a ground manoeuvre” should political leaders order one.

A ground offensive in Gaza, where the population is densely packed into a sliver of land only 25 miles long, would likely bring even higher casualties on both

SMOKE rises following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City yesterday. An Israeli ground offensive in Gaza would further escalate the war raging since Hamas launched its unprecedented attack days ago.

Photo: Hatem Moussa/AP sides in brutal house-to- international airports out of from the rubble. house fighting. service.

The home, belonging to Hamas’ assault on SaturThe relentless barrage the al-Shihab family, was day killed more than 1,300 on Gaza — 6,000 munitions packed with relatives who people in Israel, includ- dropped since the conflict had fled bombing in other ing 247 soldiers — a toll began, the military said — areas. Neighbours said a unseen in Israel for decades left Palestinians running second house was hit at the — and the ensuing Israeli through streets with what same time but the toll was bombardment has killed belongings they could carry, not immediately known. more than 1,400 people in looking for a safe place.

The Israeli military did not Gaza, according to authoriA strike Thursday after- immediately respond to a ties on both sides. Israel noon in the Jabaliya refugee request for comment on the says roughly 1,500 Hamas camp collapsed a residential strike. militants were killed inside building on families shelterThe Jabaliya camp has Israel, and that hundreds of ing inside, killing at least seen non-stop bombardment the dead in Gaza are Hamas 45 people, Gaza’s Interior for days, said one neighbour, members.

Ministry said. At least 23 of Khalil Abu Yahia. “We can’t As Israel pounds Gaza the dead were under the age flee because anywhere you from the air, Hamas mili- of 18, including a month- go you are bombed. You tants have fired thousands old child, according to a list need a miracle to survive of rockets into Israel. Amid of the casualties. Ministry here,” Aby Yahia said. concerns that the fighting spokesman Eyad Bozum The number of people could spread in the region, said dozens were wounded who fled their homes Syrian state media reported and the death toll was likely reached 340,000 people by that Israeli airstrikes on to rise as rescue workers Wednesday night — roughly Thursday put two Syrian were still pulling bodies 15% of Gaza’s population.

Most crowded into UN-run schools while others are staying with relatives or even strangers.

Families were cutting down to one meal a day to conserve supplies, said Rami Swailem, a 34-year-old lecturer at al-Azhar University, who has 32 members of his family sheltering in his home. Water stopped coming to the building two days ago, and they were rationing what’s left in the tank on the roof.

Alaa Younis AbuelOmrain has been staying in a UN school after a strike on her home killed eight members of her family -her mother, aunt, a sister, a brother and his wife and their three children. She said food supplies were running out. Most bakeries stopped producing bread for lack of electricity.

“Even if there is food in some areas, we can’t get to it because of strikes,” she said.

On Wednesday, Gaza’s only power station ran out of fuel and shut down, leaving only lights powered by scattered private generators.

Hospitals, overwhelmed by a constant stream of wounded and running out of supplies, have only a few days worth of fuel before their power cuts off, aid officials say.

“Without electricity, hospitals risk turning into morgues,” said Fabrizio Carboni, regional director of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Newborn incubators, kidney dialysis machines, X-rays, and more, are all dependent on power, he said.

Ambulance crews carrying bodies from the rubble of demolished buildings to the morgue at Gaza’s biggest hospital, Shifa, found no space left. Dozens of bodies in body bags were lined up in the hospital parking lot. Fourteen health facilities have been damaged in strikes, health officials said Thursday.

“The situation is very critical,” said Shifa hospital director Mohammad Abu Selmia. “We’ve never seen days in Gaza like what we see now.”

With Israel sealing off the territory, the only way in or out is through the crossing with Egypt at Rafah. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said it has not officially closed Rafah but airstrikes have prevented it from operating. Egypt has been trying to convince Israel and the United States to allow the delivery of aid and fuel through Rafah.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to “crush” Hamas after the militants stormed into the country’s south on Saturday and massacred hundreds of people, including killings of children in their homes and young people at a music festival. Netanyahu said Hamas’ atrocities included beheading soldiers and raping women, descriptions that could not immediately be independently confirmed.

Amid grief and demands for vengeance among the Israeli public, the government is under intense pressure to topple Hamas rather than continuing to try to bottle it up in Gaza.

GOVERNMENT High School Alumni Association Phoenix Award nominees include, top row, from left, Samuel Guy Pinder, Rupert Roberts, Dr Elwood Donaldson, George W Mackey, former Prime Minister Perry Christie, Vernay Albury, Anita Bernard, Arlington Butler, Jeannie Thompson, (second row) Henry Bostwick, Pat Rahming, Iris Knowles, Clement Bowleg, Gerald Cash, Franklyn Butler, Dr David Allen, Orry Hanna Sands, Winston Saunders, (bottom row) Dame Janet Bostwick, Beryhl Higgs, Sir Kendal Isaacs, George Mackey, Dame Joan Sawyer, Paul Adderley, Warren Rolle and Cheryl Albury.

GOVERNMENT HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION THE Government High School Alumni Association is proud to announce the nominees for the 2nd Annual Government High School Alumni Association Phoenix Awards.

Heading the list receiving the Government High School Alumni Association Phoenix Award posthumously are the families of former Governor General and Past President of the Government High School Scholars Association Sir Gerald Cash, Sir Kendal Isaacs, Winston Saunders, Paul Adderley, George Mackey, Arlington Butler, Franklyn Butler, Samuel ‘Guy’ Pinder, Vernelle Albury Armbrister, Warren Rolle, Clement Bowleg and Emma E Cooper.

Receiving the Government High School Alumni Association Phoenix Lifetime Achievement Awards will be Perry Christie former Prime Minister, Rupert Roberts, former head girl Dame Janet Bostwick, former head boy Henry Bostwick, Dame Joan Sawyer, Dame Anita Allen, Justice Cheryl Albury, Jeanne Thompson, Dr Elwood Donaldson, Iris Knowles, Pat Rahming, Orry Hanna Sands, Beryl Higgs, Dr David Allen and Anita Bernard.

The criteria to be nominated for the 2nd Annual Government High School Alumni Phoenix Award: Nominee should be but not limited to

former GHS students who have matriculated at the institution from 1950- 1959 and; Nominee should have distinguished themselves through various areas of contribution such as civic life, public service, community service, religion, sports, should have engaged in impactful community service, performing and visual arts etc.

The Government High School Alumni Association was established in September 2022 to formally replace the Government High School Old Scholars Association which was established in 1941. Members of the Government High School Alumni Association are proud and feel indeed fortunate to have had and have so many past and present wonderful and successful alumni in our midst.

As the Government High School prepares to mark its Centennial Celebration (April 27, 1925-April 27, 2025) during April of 2025, the Alumni Association has planned a number of events climaxing with a Centennial Celebration Gala on Saturday, April 26, 2025 and a Church Service on April 27, 2025.

The 2nd Annual Government High School Alumni Association Phoenix Awards is scheduled to take place on January 27, 2024, at the University of The Bahamas Performing Arts Centre, formally the GHS Auditorium. Tickets are only $50.00 can be purchased from Alumni executives as well as the Phoenix Awards steering committee.

ROTARY CLUB OF NASSAU

SCENES from Rotary Club of Nassau’s Fun, Fit Fellowship Fun Run Walk.

PAGE 16, Friday, October 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Shipyard to go ‘beyond, but it won’t come easy’ FROM PAGE A20 Explaining that it is “too early to tell” how many Bahamian jobs will be created by the dry docks project, or how much of the $600m will be spent in Grand Bahama as contracts are still being negotiated, Mr Skentelbery pledged that both numbers will be “significant” and have a major impact on Grand Bahama’s hoped-for economic revival.

Speaking to the site preparation and infrastructure-related works, which must be completed before the new docks arrive, he said: “The infrastructure works will start at the beginning of November and ramp up early in the New Year.

There’s a significant dredging programme that will be done by an overseas dredging company, because there is no local company capable of doing that size of job, but we’re mindful of employing Bahamians.

“There’s some demolition works for where the old docks were, and dredging work to accommodate the new docks, some strengthening of the existing seawall and extension of the finger

pier to accommodate the new docks.”

Disclosing that “a significant portion” of the total $600m investment will go into the Grand Bahama-based works, Mr Skentelbery said he was optimistic that the “bigger, more capable” dry dock replacements will eventually help the Shipyard to expand its order and business book beyond what it enjoyed pre-2019.

“I think you have to look back to when we had three docks before,” he told Tribune Business. “We’ve got bigger and more capable docks coming. We will have three docks again, but a bigger and far more capable yard, so it will have a significant impact on the Bahamian and Grand Bahama economy.

“We’re expecting the the business to get back to its former level and beyond in the global ship repair market. Once it’s up and running, it will provide more employment for Bahamians, both directly and indirectly...

We have to keep the business alive until they [the new docks] come here.”

Both the two new floating dry docks are already

under construction at CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Company in Qingdao, China, with one expected to arrive in Grand Bahama by January 2026 and the other by the end of that same year.

“We have a business to run up until that time, and have to prepare for the new docks in terms of training and recruitment, plus getting the business back to where it was,” Mr Skentelbery said.

“It’s not going to come easy.

We have to attract business back to the yard.

“Those ships that used to dry dock here have found other homes while we were out of capacity. We have to remain globally competitive. Our business is a global business.” He pointed out that previous clients simply transferred their repair and refit business to rival shipyards in other countries with the Shipyard’s operating capacity much reduced for the past four years.

Carnival and Royal Caribbean each own 40 percent of the Shipyard, with the remaining 20 percent held by Port Group Ltd, the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) affiliate. Mr Skentelbery acknowledged that having

Govt’s ‘reprehensible’ failure led to woman’s ‘near financial ruin’ FROM PAGE A20 Close, located south of Cowpen Road, from Sandra Nairn Johnson and Cleotha Nairn Myers in October 2005. The acquisition price was settled at $36,000, and the transaction closed in January 2006.

The land was zoned as multi-family residential, and Ms Colebrooke submitted her building permit application to the Ministry of Works on August 21, 2007. The plans, though, were not approved and she made “countless inquiries... without success” as to why there was no progress.

Eventually, some ten months later on June 5, 2008, she received a letter from Craig Delancy at

Building Control informing Ms Colebrooke that her newly-acquired property had been earmarked for inclusion in a proposed roadway that would extend Milo Butler Highway and connect both Carmichael Road and Cowpen Road.

The Government then gave formal notice on January 21, 2009, as required by the Acquisition of Land Act, that it intended to compulsorily acquire certain land for the public interest to construct roads.

Khader Alikhan, of the Ministry of Works, subsequently contacted Ms Colebrooke’s then-attorney more than two years later, on May 24, 2011, to confirm that her land was included in the acquisition.

“The plaintiff has not been compensated pursuant to the Acquisition of Land Act or at all,” Justice Lewis-Johnson wrote. “To-date, the roadworks contemplated by the Government have not materialised. The acquired property remains in its original state as purchased by the plaintiff.” There has, though, been talk about reviving the Milo Butler Highway extension under the Davis administration.

Ms Colebrooke alleged that she had planned to build a two-bed multi-family property on the land.

One of the units was to be rented out to tenants for $750 per week, while she lived in the other as her main residence. Lynden

the world’s two largest cruise companies as shareholders will help to rebuild the Shipyard’s business, but added that it cannot rely on this alone.

“We have the capacity to grow the business again, and I have every confidence we will, in time, not only get back to where we were but beyond that,” he told Tribune Business. “This is a significant investment, significant show of trust by the shareholders investing in the future of the Yard.

“I think it does show they have confidence in Grand Bahama Shipyard getting back to where it was before and put the loss of the previous two docks behind us. We continued operating through COVID-19 and kept the business going. I think it shows we’ve got a good thing here and a good recipe for the future.”

The Shipyard said it is also expanding its apprenticeship programme, with a goal to take on 16-20 new apprentices per year. Designed to develop needed technical skills, the four-year apprentice initiative will be further enhanced through partnerships with technical colleges.

Mr Skentelbery explained that this initiative will not only benefit the Shipyard but other industrial concerns and companies, as well as those apprentices involved, by equipping them with the required skills and “globally recognised qualifications”.

An April 2019 accident involving Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas cruise ship destroyed one of the Shipyard’s previous dry docks, while another was damaged several months later through the passage of Hurricane Dorian. The ability of its cruise line shareholders to finance their replacement was both delayed and severely impaired by the COVID-19 pandemic, which shut the cruise industry down worldwide for some 16 months until summer 2021.

These accidents meant the Shipyard lost its status as the world’s busiest cruise ship repair facility, having serviced three-and-a-half times the number of vessels seen by any rival yard. They also left the company functioning at just 25 percent capacity for the past four years until the $600m investment in the two replacement floating dry docks was confirmed.

The Shipyard, in an earlier statement, said the two replacements will be “among the largest floating docks in the Western Hemisphere”. One was described as “a mega dock that will have the largest lifting capacity in the world”, and be capable of servicing all existing and currently planned cruise ships worldwide, as well as multiple other commercial vessel types.

Prime Minister Philip Davis KC described the expansion project as “a new and promising chapter in the story of Grand Bahama”. Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, said: “The timing of the Grand Bahama Shipyard expansion project coincides beautifully with our efforts to revitalise Grand Bahama’s tourism industry.

“This project is just the impetus that Grand Bahama needs to further boost the island’s economic growth.

It is a strong show of confidence that Grand Bahama Shipyard is establishing the world’s largest ship repair facility in The Bahamas.”

Hepburn was contracted to produce the architecture and engineering plans.

After being notified of the Government’s compulsory acquisition of her property, she asked her then attorney “to arrive at a reasonable compensation figure” with the Prime Minister’s Office. A “possible land swap” and “payment of consequential loss” was mulled, but an alternative site at Marshall Road was rejected because the land was “not comparable”, while Ardastra Gardens was only zoned for single family - not multi-family - lots.

Ms Colebrooke switched attorneys in July 2020 to Cedric Parker & Company in a bid to obtain compensation and settle the matter, but no response has been received. In the meantime, she had settled the Scotiabank (Bahamas) mortgage that financed the property’s

original purchase and been forced to pay $800 per month to rent somewhere else because she cannot use the land for her intended purpose.

Wellington Woods, an appraiser, in a report dated November 23, 2021, determined that the property’s market value then was $72,786, while in 2010 it would have been $67,587.

He confirmed the multifamily zoning and that the area was an approved subdivision.

The Government, in its response, provided an appraisal from the late Peter Galanos, which described the areas as “undeveloped/rural farmland” and valued it at $42,000. However, Roshan Noronha, an accountant, calculated that the compensation due to Ms Colebrooke under the Acquisition of Land Act was $134,669 at February 2022.

Justice Lewis-Johnson, rejecting the appraisal by Mr Galanos, ruled: “The evidence reflects that the Ministry of Works refused to issue the building permit in 2007. This prolonged deprivation of right, title, interest and benefit is unacceptable.”

She also questioned why Ms Colebrooke was denied approvals, and “forced to pay rent and satisfy a loan” on the property, when others had built homes and

apartments in the same neighbourhood.

“The Government failed and/or refused to approve her plans thereby preventing her from constructing her planned duplex,” the judge added. “This is unacceptable and what is reprehensible is their failure to provide timely and adequate compensation....

“The prolonged failure to provide compensation has put the plaintiff at a significant disadvantage and this failure is nothing short of disgraceful and unacceptable. What is even more disconcerting is that the plaintiff obtained a mortgage to purchase this property which she repaid/ satisfied and hoped to use the property as an investment. The Government prevented the plaintiff from obtaining a return on her investment.”

This, the judge found, caused “significant hardship and almost financial ruin” for Ms Colebrooke, resulting in the award for loss of revenue and cost of having to pay for alternative housing. The case again highlights just how long many Bahamians have to wait - sometime for decades - to receive their rightful compensation for land taken by the Government to facilitate public infrastructure development and other projects deemed to be in the public interest.

Bahamian in world’s top 15 ‘meetings influencers’ FROM PAGE A19 painstakingly whittled it down to the true standouts.

The 15 leaders profiled here are not only focused on their day-to-day tasks, they’re looking at the bigger picture: The near and long-term betterment of the meetings industry.”

Ms Carey was appointed president of the Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) in February this year, presiding over members in 30 countries covering four continents. Since then, she has advocated for her colleagues in ways that have resulted in a greater level of respect and more income for them.

ADMEI has formed a number of strategic partnerships with organisations such as the International Live Events Association (ILEA) and SITE, a leading organisation in incentive travel,

during Ms Carey’s tenure.

Her company, Island Destination Services, also this year won its seventh World Travel Award, solidifying its position as a leading destination management company in The Bahamas.

“I am profoundly honoured to announce my recognition as one of Northstar Meetings Group’s Influential Event Professionals of 2023,” Carey said, describing it as a “humbling distinction”.

“The energy of our field, the bonds we cultivate, and the extraordinary experiences we create continue to fuel a deep sense of drive and purpose within me.

Equally important is the positive impact our work has on local communities.

As destination management companies, our work empowers local businesses in each destination, ensuring that tourism dollars are within their reach,” she added.

PUBLIC NOTICE INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, SHAVNNA CHRISTINA WARD of Sri. Lanka Crescent Drive, Flamingo Gardens, New Providence, Bahamas intend to change my name to SHAUNNA CHRISTINA WARD. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O.Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 17

HOTELS ‘EVEN STRONGER’ THAN TOUTED 13% BOOKINGS LEAP FROM PAGE A20 to by Mrs Duncombe, and wider peak winter period, he added: “It’s shaping up to be an increase over last year, and it’s showing quite positive signs based on advance bookings.

“We don’t see any headwinds currently. I think 2024 is shaping up to be very strong. We also see more and more groups.

We’re seeing the manifestation of those bookings take place as well in 2024.

It’s very strong.” Mrs Duncombe, meanwhile, emphasised that much of the visitor arrivals growth continues to be driven by the cruise industry.

“Cruise tourism is really big in the destination,” she

said. “Cruise is huge in The Bahamas. Of the 7.2m visitors to our shores in 2019, 5.4m came by cruise. Of the 6.6m you saw up there [for the first eight months of 2023], 5.2m came by cruise, so cruising in The Bahamas is very big.”

The statistics disclosed by the tourism directorgeneral show that The Bahamas received 96.3 percent of the total cruise arrivals it attracted in 2019, the last pre-COVID year, within just eight months.

And those 5.2m cruise passengers also account for 78.8 percent, or more than three-quarters and three out of four visitors to set foot in The Bahamas this year.

Cruise tourism is The Bahamas’ volume business, as compared to the higheryielding and spending stopover visitors. There has been a consistent argument over the years by some observers that by focusing solely on arrivals numbers, which are skewed to lowerspending cruise passengers, The Bahamas is not placing enough emphasis on tourist spending and ensuring the impact from this is maximised to benefit as many Bahamians as possible.

Meanwhile, Mrs Duncombe said The Bahamas will again placed renewed attention on attracting TV and films to come on location to this nation. The Ministry of Tourism’s recent Atlanta mission, where it

staged both the Bahamas Film Awards and Friends of The Bahamas Awards, which honoured producer Will Packer, actor and musician Tyrese Gibson, and former Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed, was designed to place this nation back on the TV/film map.

“Film is big in the destination, and we’re certainly looking to do a lot in that space, and so through this partnership we expect for the islands of The Bahamas to be used in a very significant way,” the tourism director-general added.

Pointing to The Bahamas’ efforts to protect and conserve its environment, especially the marine portion, which attracts so many of its visitors, Mrs

Duncombe added: “From a sustainability perspective, we’re doing so much in that space. The amount of initiatives we have going on in that space is too numerous to mention, but sustainability is front and centre for the islands of The Bahamas....

“Our Bahamas, we are a tourism-driven destination, and what is key for us is to maintain all things Bahamians and also to export it to the world in a very sustainable way. The involvement of our locals as part of this process is up front and centre, and the economic empowerment of our locals is very important to support our tourism sector.”

Noting The Bahamas’ growing interest in

DEMAND WORRIES OVER GOV’T BOND ‘COMPETITIVE BID’ MOVE FROM PAGE A20 “I think that if there was a competitive bidding market for it the Government could end up pricing its debt at a lower cost if there was sufficient demand, and people bid for more than what was available and pushed the cost of the debt down,” the RF Bank & Trust chief told this newspaper.

“My sense is not enough people will be bidding on the debt. It’s unlikely to push the price down below where the Government prices it through the Central Bank. If there’s big enough demand, the Government could see the cost of its [domestic] debt go down as demand pushes the price down.

“But, if people bid for less than what is offered, the Government could end up paying more for its debt if the Central Bank provides it at a discount.”

Mr Anderson added that, should investors offer to acquire BRS bonds and Treasury Bills at a discount to their par value (price), it was likely the Central Bank will still “fill the gap” and ensure there’s no change in price.

“My sense is there’s not sufficient demand in the market to cause a really competitive bid,” he said.

“If there was sufficient demand, it makes sense because there’s enough people bidding and the price will drop but, because there’s insufficient demand, it will not make any change in price because the Central Bank will buy what’s

left and people will pay the same price.”

Noting that the interest coupon attached to government debt issues would rise if there is insufficient demand from Bahamian institutions and broker/ dealers, with such investors only willing to buy-in at a discount such as 95 cents to the dollar, Mr Anderson said in such a scenario the Central Bank will likely step in and ensure both the interest rate and ‘par’ value set by the Government are maintained. That will be little to no change from the present system.

“There’s insufficient demand generally within the market so I don’t see competitive bidding helping the Government on the price or amount issued,” he reiterated to Tribune Business. “Competitive bidding requires more people to be bidding. Auctions don’t work well when there’s insufficient demand.

“Most banks are still buying short-term debt, one-year paper and Treasury Bills, so there’s not a lot of money going into long-term debt. It won’t really change the situation to any great extent. I don’t see it helping the Government much. There’s still generally a negative sentiment across the market around government debt notwithstanding that the Government is doing better with its Budget.”

Interest payments on The Bahamas’ outstanding debts stand at more than $612m, or almost $1 out of every $5 in recurrent spending in the

2023-2024 fiscal year, so the Government’s eagerness to cap or reduce these servicing costs is both clear and understandable.

Larry Gibson, chief operating officer of CG Atlantic Pensions, told Tribune Business yesterday that many institutional investors such as banks, pension funds and insurance companies are close to their prudential and regulatory limits in terms of how much additional government debt they can hold on their balance sheets.

This could further limit demand for BRS bonds and Treasury Bills, and explains why the Government is eager to expand the pool of domestic debt investors to individuals and non-financial companies. However, Mr Gibson praised the Central Bank for driving capital markets modernisation, and argued that the switch to “competitive bidding” will better hold the Government accountable for reckless spending and fiscal policies.

“It also holds the Government’s hands,” he explained of the new mechanism. “If they’re reckless in their spending, reckless in their fiscal management, persons will demand higher interest rates on government paper.

It’s very positive from that standpoint because it makes government more accountable too.

“By being a sovereign credit, you have a special ability in that you can issue bonds but, at the same time, with competitive pricing it’s a check and

balance because if people don’t have confidence in your ability to service and repay, notwithstanding the Government’s ability to impose new taxes, investors will demand higher interest rates. That’s the way it works in all modern economies.

“Competitive bidding is a positive step in the right direction. It brings us more into line with modern capital markets.

There’s transition and education involved that must accompany it. It makes the market more transparent, even the Government more transparent. It should encourage greater longterm confidence and greater participation in the markets. It can work. It’s not going to happen overnight where it’s perfect.”

Besides better pricing and more transparent discovery, Mr Gibson said the reforms should help to create a government debt yield curve that can be used as a benchmark for costing corporate debt issues. “The importance of competitive bidding is you are now moving closer towards a true yield curve where you have the market determine rates and what have you,” he added.

“You now have a yield curve that other financial institutions can use to price debt. If the Government is acting inappropriately, that means the cost of credit goes up for everybody because the benchmark rate goes up. There are still a lot of institutions out

there carrying government debt at par.

“If you have a bond with a 4 percent coupon and 20-year maturity, that is priced at par. If you have a bond at 6 percent and 10-year maturity, that’s also priced at par. Anomalies like that essentially fade away with market-driven rates and that’s another positive in the long-term. There will be price distortions for those not pricing government bonds at market rates as they should have been doing.”

Praising the reforms’ intent, Mr Gibson said: “The Central Bank is doing good things in terms of advancing bond trading and capital markets.. It’s a huge step in the modernisation of our domestic financial sector and also catching up to what you would find in any other modern economy. All things taken into their proper context, this is another positive step in developing our capital markets infrastructure.”

John Rolle, the Central Bank’s governor, could not be reached for comment before press time last night.

However, in a July 2023 interview, he explained the rationale for competitive bidding as moving away from the current structure where all issues are purchased at “par” or 100 percent of face value and at set interest coupons.

“Bahamas Government Registered Stock (BRS) offers are currently issued on a non-competitive basis. What this means is that investors

50% OF BAHAMIANS TO USE SAND DOLLARS BY END-2024 FROM PAGE A20 consumer and 1,600 merchant digital wallets. He affirmed that the Sand Dollar provides a cash alternative to unbanked or under-banked islands and areas in The Bahamas.

“To-date, we have seen a gradual uptick in the adoption of Sand Dollar both from the consumer side - where we have over 150,000 wallets activated and for the merchant side, where we have over 1,600 merchants throughout the archipelago accepting Sand Dollar as a method of payment,” Mr Lashley said.

“It’s key benefit really is for those communities that

are lacking access to banks, the unbanked or the underbanked, providing them with a means other than cash to transact.”

Shaqueno Porter, the Central Bank’s deputy manager for financial market infrastructure, forecast that up to 75 percent of Bahamians will have active Sand Dollar accounts by 2025 with participation from commercial banks.

Given that the commercial banking industry already has an established infrastructure and consumer base, partnering with it could see Sand Dollar adoption “explode”. He said: “I think once we get all the banks

NOTICE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPANIES ACT, 2000

Gorda Cay Ventures Inc. (IN VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, as amended, Gorda Cay Ventures Inc. is in dissolution.

The dissolution of the said Company commenced on October 6, 2023 when the Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered with the Registrar General in Nassau, The Bahamas.

The sole liquidator of the said Company is Kim D Thompson of Equity Trust House, Caves Village, West Bay Street, P O Box N 10697, Nassau, Bahamas.

Kim D Thompson Sole Liquidator

involved, the Government’s involved, I think it would get 60 percent to 75 percent by 2025.

“The commercial banks.. this is a key to any successful CBDC. The commercial banks already have an existing customer base, and integration with the commercial banks can see adoption explode.” Mr Porter added that the Central Bank will engage with commercial banks next year to see how they can integrate Sand Dollar with their systems.

“So, we actually have an engagement strategy in 2024 to engage with the local banks here in The Bahamas,” he added,

“to get them on board and to see how we can integrate the Sand Dollar with their internal systems and try to truncate some of the processes with issuing a CBDC.” “They already have their existing networks and their existing infrastructures, so we are working with them to integrate the Sand Dollar into their internal systems.”

Mr Porter said the Sand Dollar lowers transaction costs for merchants and promotes financial inclusion by providing a digital banking service to underbanked communities.

He added: “The Sand Dollar offers real time

NOTICE

Paladin Trading Ops Ltd. Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas registered in the Register of Companies under the Registration Number 208885 B.

settlement for transactions.

And, because of this, we can reduce the need for intermediaries between the consumer and the merchant which, in turn, lowers the transaction costs for merchants.

public-private partnership (PPP) deals, where private capital and investors partner with the Government on key public infrastructure projects, the tourism director-general said the planned transformation of 14 Family Island international airports is projected to cost at least a collective $250m.

Mrs Duncombe said The Bahamas’ focus on Saudi Arabia and Qatar was designed to get markets, where travellers have relatively high levels of disposable income and purchasing power, to consider this nation as a vacation and travel destination. submit applications to purchase bonds at par value at a set price in the primary market,” Mr Rolle explained. “Under competitive bidding, the investors would have to indicate the price at which they wish to purchase the bonds, given the coupon rates of interest that the Government would set in advance.

“Investors who offer the best or highest price for such bonds on offer would be allowed to purchase the amounts being offered.

Investors who do not offer competitive bids could find themselves excluded from an offering. In instances where there is an over-subscription to a bond offering, the bidders who offer the best price could get fully satisfied, while others could be completely shut out.

“This is different from a non-tender process, where the bonds are allocated on a first come, first served basis or all investors get a reduced, prorated amount.

The competitive bidding will be done through the Bahamas Government Securities Depository (BGSD) system, same as the Treasury Bill auctions, and would be a transparent and objective process,” he added.

“A tender is a more transparent process for the market to price bonds in line with the level of interest expressed by investors.

It should be noted though that each tender process would reserve a fraction of the bonds for non-competitive investors. Rather than submitting a bid, such investors would be consenting in advance to pay the average price obtained from successful competitive bids.”

“In terms of financial inclusion, we expect that in the near future the Sand Dollar will be an ubiquitous form of digital money that does not require traditional banking services. This will help us to reach the underserved communities, where we see unbanked and under-banked individuals, and we can include them in basic financial services.”

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NOTICE KCC FAMILY HOLDINGS LIMITED N O T I C E IS HEREBY GIVEN as follows: (a) KCC FAMILY HOLDINGS LIMITED is in voluntary dissolution under the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000.

(In Voluntary Liquidation)

(b) The dissolution of the said company commenced on the 12th October, 2023 when the Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.

Notice is hereby given that the liquidation and the winding up of the Company is complete and the Company has been struck off the Register of Companies maintained by the Registrar General on the 27th day of July 2023.

(c) The Liquidator of the said company is Bukit Merah Limited, The Bahamas Financial Centre, Shirley & Charlotte Streets, P.O. Box N-3023, Nassau, Bahamas Dated this 13th day of October, A. D. 2023.

Dated this 13th day of October A.D. 2023 DIEGO CAMPO JIMENEZ LIQUIDATOR

________________________________ Bukit Merah Limited Liquidator

PAGE 18, Friday, October 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

MEDICAL MARIJUANA: ‘THIS IS WHAT IT TAKES TO GET IT RIGHT’

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net A CABINET minister last night urged Bahamians to voice their opinions on the draft legislation to legalise and regulate medical marijuana because “that’s what it takes to get it right”.

Jomo Campbell, minister of agriculture, and marine resources, told a Caribbean Week of Agriculture discussion on marijuana that the consultation period remains open. “It’s still ongoing; it’s a very fluid process. You know, the windows and the doors of the input have not been closed. We are still taking suggestions. We are encouraging the public to please feel free to give their comments,” he said.

JOMO CAMPBELL “It doesn’t have to be supportive of the actual legislation. We still want to get all views because that’s what it takes to actually get it right.” The Bahamas hosted the Caribbean Week of Agriculture this week, and Mr Campbell said the number of young persons who attended the conference and shared ideas on

NOTICE IN THE ESTATE of NISHA LASCELLES ARMBRISTER late of #1 Stanford Drive, West Bay Street, Western District, New Providence, one of the Islands of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, deceased.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having any claim or demands against the above named Estate are required to send their names, addresses and articulars o the same duly certified in writing to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of October A.D., 2023, and if required, prove such debts or claims, or in default be excluded from any distribution; after the above date the assets will be distributed having regard only to the proved debts or claims of which the Administrators shall then have had Notice.

And Notice is hereby given that all persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to make full settlement on or before the aforementioned date.

MICHAEL A. DEAN & CO., Attorneys for the Administrators Alvernia Court, 49A Dowdeswell Street P.O. Box N-3114 Nassau, The Bahamas

how to grow domestic food production was “refreshing and encouraging”.

He added: “We know we actually have a long way to go, but what is encouraging is the fact that we can see that we have so many young persons interested in securing our food future.

“The amount of new ideas and innovative technology that can be added to this sector is also really refreshing and encouraging.

And so you know, we have a lot to wrap our minds around, because the main goal is to see how quickly we can accelerate our vision 25 by the year 2025.” That involves slashing food imports by 25 percent Caribbean-wide come that year.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources last night hosted a roundtable discussion on marijuana and its legalisation, with Caribbean specialists discussing the legislation implemented in their countries and taking suggestions from the public.

Deon Gibson, consultant agriculturist in the Department of Agriculture, explained that there are

seven types of licences that will be made available in The Bahamas. Four will be exclusively for Bahamians, and the others allowed to have up to 70 percent foreign partnership.

He explained that elements such as analytical testing, manufacturing and research will be permitted to have foreign ownership due to the high costs and expertise associated with it.

Mr Gibson said: “There are seven different licences cultivation, retail, transport, and religious use. Those are four of the seven. Those are exclusively for Bahamians.

“The other three are analytical testing, manufacturing and research. Those are permitted to have up to 70 percent foreign partnership, so it has to be a minimum of 30 percent Bahamian ownership for analytical testing, manufacturing and research. So that is there because we know that those elements are very, very costly. But the cultivation and retail is exclusively for Bahamians, so that is more Bahamian ownership of the industry. “ Mr Gibson added that Bahamian farmers may

benefit from forming cooperatives to obtain funding for the cultivation of marijuana, and indicated that some people are already pooling resources to enter the potential new industry.

He said: “How do they get funding when the time comes? I think at this point we have to look at groups who are coming together.

I’ve been approached by many different groups of people who are slowly trying to gather their resources.

“It’s not tomorrow that this is happening, so I think persons should come together in groups. We promote co-operatives in agriculture, and maybe look at different groupings of people and the ways to start it.”

Mr Gibson explained that the Rastafarian community could serve as a “blueprint”, since it has experience in marijuana farming and would like to enter the cultivation industry as a unit.

He said: “They spoke about knowing how to do it… So they know what it takes to upgrade and increase capacity for their

WHITE HOUSE POISED TO ANNOUNCE WINNERS OF COMPETITION TO PRODUCE HYDROGEN FUEL

By MARC LEVY Associated Press THE White House is poised to announce the winners of a $7 billion federal competition to produce and deliver hydrogen fuel, with the Philadelphia area and West Virginia among those selected, according to a person familiar with the program.

President Joe Biden is expected to make the official announcement during

an economic-themed visit to Philadelphia on Friday.

There were 23 finalists for the hydrogen fuel program, a key component of the president's clean energy plan.

Among those selected are the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub, based in West Virginia, and the Philadelphia-area Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub, according to the person briefed on the plan.

The person was not authorized to publicly discuss the selection before Biden's appearance and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Pennsylvania, a presidential battleground state of the highest importance

to Biden in next year's election, is in line to benefit from both the West Virginia-based hub and the Philadelphia-area hub, which includes Biden's home state of Delaware.

Biden has made Philadelphia a regular stop for both official and campaign events, and partners in the proposed Philadelphiaarea hub have labor unions that are key endorsers of Biden's. The West Virginia-based hub includes major Pittsburgh-based natural gas companies that are active in the region's prolific Marcellus Shale reservoir, as well as an upstate facility that is working on

purposes. They also want a part of the greater industry; to be cultivators not only for themselves.

“So, I think as a community, they may almost be a bit of a blueprint as to how to come together as a collective to crowd source amongst yourselves. And I think that may be one of the first ways until we get the legislation passed, where the banks can now say, ‘okay, I can have a conversation with you’.”

Mr Gibson added that traditional financiers such as commercial banks will not discuss funding marijuana farming at present because the practice is still illegal until the legislation is passed.

He said: “I don’t think, at this point, in The Bahamas we are able to have that conversation on funding, because nobody’s going to have a conversation about funding something that is not legal. You may be able to have it in closed doors with your banker, but that’s not a public conversation at this point.” producing hydrogen from natural gas.

The infrastructure law signed by Biden in 2021 included billions of dollars for a program to establish six to 10 regional "hydrogen hubs." The aim is to help industry replace fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which produce planetwarming greenhouse gases, with cleaner-burning hydrogen as an energy source for vehicles, manufacturing and generating electricity.

States and businesses have been competing for federal dollars in a new Energy Department program that will create regional networks of hydrogen producers, consumers and infrastructure. The intent is to accelerate the availability and use of the colorless, odorless gas that already powers some vehicles and trains.

NOTICE IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST PRATT late of 111 IIer Avenue in the Town of Essex in the Province of Ontario in the Dominion of Canada, deceased.

NOTICE is hereby given that all persons having any claim or demand against the above Estate are required to send the same duly certified in writing to the Undersigned on or before the 20th day of November, A.D. 2023, after which date the Co-Executors will proceed to distribute the assets having regard only to the claims to which they shall then have had notice.

AND NOTICE is hereby given that all persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to make full settlement on or before the date hereinbefore mentioned.

MERIDIAN LAW CHAMBERS Attorneys for the Co-Executors Chambers, P.O. Box N-168, East Bay Shopping Center, East Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 13, 2023, PAGE 19

ELEUTHERA PROJECT TOUTS $10M PAYROLL BENEFITS AN ELEUTHERA resort development has reiterated it will inject $10m into the island’s economy annually through salary payments alone once it is fully operational.

Cotton Bay Holdings executives touted the benefits the project is forecast to bring at a recent public consultation meeting, held in partnership with the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP), to discuss the 220-acre mixed-use resort and residential development’s projected impacts.

Daniel Zuleta, Cotton Bay Holdings’ project director, described the company’s vision as “to bring back the iconic Cotton Bay Club heritage, elevating it

to an ultra luxury standard”. He said the $200m investment will create 300 direct jobs during the 24-month construction phase, with estimated wages exceeding $8m annually. Once operational, the project anticipates sustaining over 200 full-time jobs with an annual payroll of more than $10m.

The development will feature a 90-room RitzCarlton Reserve, along with 60 Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences, featuring a blend of two to five-bedroom villas. Amenities will include restaurants, a spa, swimming pools and an 18-hole championship golf course.

It will be built-out through a three-phased

approach, with a five-month road construction and development phase, followed by a two-year project construction period. Construction work is scheduled to conclude by January 2026, with the resort’s operational phase then starting.

Attendees were shown a master plan for the resort, providing a detailed layout for the hotel, residences, golf course and other amenities.

Dr Rhianna Neely-Murphy, the Department of Environmental Planning & Protection’s (DEPP) director, chaired the public consultation that was held both virtually and in-person at the Eleuthera Business Hub in Rock Sound. Presentations were made by

Cotton Bay Holdings and Waypoint Consulting, the environmental consultant of record for the project.

Besides Waypoint Consulting, other Bahamian companies hired for the project include Caribbean Civil Group, N&M Architects and Oracle Business Partners. An overview of the upcoming road construction was provided by Natasha Nixon, the procurement and logistics lead for Cotton Bay Holdings.

She reassured that the existing road will not be closed until the completion and handover of the new road, which will retain the name ‘Chris Brown Boulevard’, to the Government.

Ms Nixon added: “We’re widening the road from

20 feet to 40 feet, and meeting state-of-the-art technical standards. This upgraded road will include clear markings, public lighting, a pathway for exercise enthusiasts and enhanced drainage. We’re also improving Cocoplum Drive, relocating it closer to the beach to preserve public beach access.”

Cotton Bay Holdings will also advertise vacancies, and work with the Department of Labour, to hire workers in Nassau and Eleuthera. “In collaboration with Marriott International, our partner, we will provide insights into available positions, career programmes and operational plans, emphasising our dedication to

community growth and development,” added Ms Nixon.

Melissa Alexiou, director for Waypoint Consulting, highlighted the mitigation measures and community engagement strategies incorporated into the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The meeting provided an opportunity for public feedback and questions on the EIA, and detailed the process for submitting further comments and questions to the DEPP and the developer’s environmental consultants.

Bahamian in world’s top 15 ‘meetings influencers’ A BAHAMIAN has been named among the world’s top 15 meetings industry influencers for 2023.

Lonise Carey, managing partner of Island Destination Services, a destination management company, was included on the Northstar Meetings Group and M&C

LONISE CAREY

Industry Influencers list highlights the top professionals in the industry.

She was hailed for her ability to bridge the gap between the creative work of destination management professionals and the compensation they deserve.

“Destination management companies have struggled

for decades to get paid for their ideas,” Ms Carey said.

“We were giving away a lot of the creative work and waiting for compensation that sometimes never came. There is now a clear differentiation between proposals and full-blown work plans. When we recognise industry gaps and

successfully close them, we create a more sustainable industry for destination management companies.”

Northstar and M&C choose the top 15 influencers from “thousands of talented and passionate individuals who contribute to the growth and strength of the meetings industry”.

THE WEATHER REPORT

5-DAY FORECAST

ORLANDO

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 74° F/23° C

TAMPA

TONIGHT

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

UV INDEX TODAY

Humid with a thunderstorm in spots

Mostly cloudy and humid

Humid with some sun

Some rain and a t-storm in the p.m.

Low clouds breaking for some sun

Mostly sunny and pleasant

The higher the AccuWeather UV IndexTM number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection.

High: 92°

Low: 77°

High: 91° Low: 79°

High: 90° Low: 77°

High: 86° Low: 73°

High: 83° Low: 70°

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

104° F

87° F

102°-87° F

100°-82° F

88°-74° F

91°-71° F

E

W

ABACO

S

N

High: 88° F/31° C Low: 82° F/28° C

7-14 knots

S

WEST PALM BEACH High: 91° F/33° C Low: 78° F/26° C

8-16 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE

FREEPORT

High: 91° F/33° C Low: 78° F/26° C

E S

E

W

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 78° F/26° C

MIAMI

High: 94° F/34° C Low: 79° F/26° C

7-14 knots

Ht.(ft.)

Low

Ht.(ft.)

Today

7:37 a.m.

7:51 p.m.

3.1 3.0

1:30 a.m.

1:52 p.m.

0.6 0.7

ALMANAC

Saturday

8:12 a.m.

8:27 p.m.

3.2 2.9

2:03 a.m.

2:31 p.m.

0.5 0.6

Statistics are for Nassau through 2 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 90° F/32° C Low .................................................... 82° F/28° C Normal high ....................................... 85° F/30° C Normal low ........................................ 73° F/23° C Last year’s high .................................. 91° F/33° C Last year’s low ................................... 78° F/25° C Precipitation As of 2 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.00” Year to date ................................................ 45.52” Normal year to date ................................... 31.23”

Sunday

8:48 a.m.

9:02 p.m.

3.3 2.9

2:35 a.m.

3:09 p.m.

0.4 0.5

Monday

9:25 a.m.

9:39 p.m.

3.3 2.8

3:08 a.m.

3:49 p.m.

0.4 0.5

Tuesday

10:03 a.m.

10:18 p.m.

3.3 2.7

3:43 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

0.4 0.6

Wednesday 10:45 a.m.

11:00 p.m.

3.3 2.6

4:21 a.m.

5:15 p.m.

0.5 0.7

Thursday

3.3 2.5

5:04 a.m.

6:05 p.m.

0.6 0.8

KEY WEST

High: 90° F/32° C Low: 82° F/28° C

ELEUTHERA

NASSAU

High: 92° F/33° C Low: 77° F/25° C

11:32 a.m.

11:50 p.m.

SUN AND MOON Sunrise Sunset

7:07 a.m. Moonrise 6:45 p.m. Moonset

6:04 a.m.

6:17 p.m.

New

First

Full

Last

Oct. 14

Oct. 21

Oct. 28

Nov. 5

CAT ISLAND

E

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 79° F/26° C

N

S

E

W

6-12 knots

S

6-12 knots Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2023

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 83° F/28° C

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TIDES FOR NASSAU High

The exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature® is an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body—everything that affects how warm or cold a person feels. Temperatures reflect the high and the low for the day.

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TODAY

High: 88° F/31° C Low: 77° F/25° C

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“Narrowing down the year’s standouts for this annual feature is difficult and subjective,” the group said. “For months prior, the M&C editorial team conducted research and interviews to build a list of contenders, then

ANDROS

SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 90° F/32° C Low: 79° F/26° C

High: 88° F/31° C Low: 81° F/27° C

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High: 92° F/33° C Low: 79° F/26° C

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LONG ISLAND

TRACKING MAP

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 81° F/27° C

7-14 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 89° F/32° C Low: 80° F/27° C

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 88° F/31° C Low: 82° F/28° C

High: 88° F/31° C Low: 81° F/27° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 90° F/32° C Low: 80° F/27° C

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MARINE FORECAST ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday: Today: Saturday:

WINDS SW at 8-16 Knots W at 7-14 Knots SW at 6-12 Knots WSW at 6-12 Knots WSW at 6-12 Knots WSW at 7-14 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots W at 4-8 Knots WSW at 7-14 Knots W at 7-14 Knots WSW at 7-14 Knots W at 8-16 Knots SW at 6-12 Knots WSW at 6-12 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots NNE at 4-8 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots WSW at 4-8 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots WSW at 4-8 Knots WSW at 6-12 Knots W at 6-12 Knots SW at 4-8 Knots S at 3-6 Knots SW at 7-14 Knots W at 7-14 Knots

WAVES 3-5 Feet 3-6 Feet 0-1 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-3 Feet 0-1 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet

VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 82° F 82° F 83° F 83° F 83° F 83° F 84° F 84° F 83° F 83° F 82° F 82° F 83° F 83° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 83° F 83° F 84° F 84° F 83° F 83° F

business@tribunemedia.net

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2023

$6.10

$6.11

$6.12

Hotels ‘even stronger’ than touted 13% bookings leap

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

t *OEVTUSZ CBDL UP QSF $07*% ADFSUBJOMZ JO THE BAHAMAS Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) president yester- t $SVJTF WJTJUPST PG day disclosed some resorts are enjoying “even stronger” BSSJWBMT UISPVHI "VHVTU growth than the near-13 percent jump in advanced bookings through to February t 1MBOT GPS 57 mMN UP CF 2024.

ACJH JO UIF EFTUJOBUJPO Robert Sands told Tribune Business that the hotel sector will return to pre-COVID business levels “certainly in 2024”, and possibly even in this year’s final quarter, with the upcoming winter poised to show improvement over prior comparatives.

He spoke after Latia Duncombe, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-general, told the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), which ends today in Turks & Caicos, that The Bahamas was enjoying “an average growth” of 12.7 percent in advanced bookings for the six-month period between

September 2023 and February 2024 when compared to pre-COVID levels.

“In 2019, we celebrated our banner year as we welcomed 7.2m visitors to our shores,” Mrs Duncombe said. “In 2022, although we saw Omicron at the start, we hit the seven million mark again. Year-to-date, January to August, we welcomed 6.6m visitors to our shores.

“We’re projecting to hit at least eight million this year, and we’re pretty pleased with the results we are seeing. We

are well on the way. We are about 30 percent above 2019, and 54 percent above last year. Our forward bookings remain strong, and as you can see, an average growth of 12.7 percent [compared] to preCOVID levels when you look at September 2023 to February 2024.”

Mr Sands, confirming this is the level of growth being enjoyed by the industry as its post-COVID rebound continues, told this newspaper: “I think you’ll find it may be even stronger for some

GRAND Bahama Shipyard’s top executive is voicing confidence that its $600m dry dock investment will grow its business “beyond” what it enjoyed in early 2019, but warned: “It’s not going to come easy.”

Dave Skentelbery, its chief executive, told Tribune Business the magnitude of the investment by its owners, who include the world’s two largest cruise ship operators, represents “a significant show of trust” that the Shipyard can more than recover lost ground and put the loss of its two previous docks “behind us”.

Despite those losses reducing the Shipyard to just 25 percent functioning capacity by late 2019, he pointed out that the fact the company continued operating through the COVID-19 pandemic and all other hurdles proves “we’ve got a good recipe for the future”.

However, Mr Skentelbery told this newspaper that he and his management team

ROBERT SANDS properties. We continue to see growth year-over-year, month by month, in the tourism sector. We continue to see growth across all sectors.”

Asked whether resorts and stopover numbers have rebounded to pre-COVID levels, the BHTA chief replied: “I think we’re getting there. We’re not quite there yet. We’ll see how this final quarter works out, but certainly by 2024.” Turning to the six-month period referred

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must continue to “keep the business alive” until the two new docks, which are being manufactured in China, arrive at different times in 2019.

And, in the lead-up to their arrival, they have to ensure the company is “globally competitive” such that it can win back ship repair business that went elsewhere when its operational capacity was reduced.

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Govt’s ‘reprehensible’ failure led to woman’s ‘near financial ruin’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net A SUPREME Court judge has slammed the Government’s “reprehensible” failure that drove a Bahamian woman to “almost financial ruin” after it failed to compensate her over acquiring land for a road yet to be built.

Justice Denise LewisJohnson, in a September 27, 2023, verdict blasted that it was “nothing short of disgraceful and unacceptable” that Leclevia Danica Colebrooke has for more than 17 years both been denied use of - and not received a penny for - a property she acquired as both her

primary residence and an income earner.

She found that the Government’s failure to pay compensation not only breached Ms Colebrooke’s rights under the Bahamian constitution’s article 27, which protects citizens from being deprived of their rightful property, and ruled that she is also “entitled” to damages for “loss of revenue and cost of alternative housing” that must be determined by the Supreme Court.

Detailing the background to the dispute, Justice Lewis-Johnson wrote that Ms Colebrooke agreed to purchase her 5,199 square foot property in Nairn

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50% of Bahamians to use Sand Dollars by end-2024

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net CENTRAL Bank executives yesterday forecast that 50 percent of Bahamians will have active Sand Dollar accounts by year-end 2024, with 160,000 already using this nation’s digital currency version.

Brett Lashley, the regulator’s deputy manager for customer experience, told the D3 digital assets conference that more than 35 percent of the Bahamian adult population currently uses the Central Bankbacked digital currency (CBDC).

He said: “We’ve already past 35 percent of the adult population. We have a relatively small population of just about 400,000 people so, you know, having 150,000 to 160,000 wallets already activated shows that we’re well on our way. By next year, I would say that we’ve targeted to get a little close to that 50 percent mark where we can say every other person is using Sand Dollar.”

Mr Lashley explained that the Central Bank has seen a “gradual uptick” in the amount of Sand Dollar customers, and there are now more than 150,000

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Demand worries over Gov’t bond ‘competitive bid’ move t A*OTVGmDJFOU JOUFSFTU UP DVU EPNFTUJD EFCU DPTU t #VU XJMM CFUUFS IPME ASFDLMFTT (PW UT BDDPVOUBCMFù t #FOFmUT AOPU PWFSOJHIU CVU USBOTQBSFODZ HSFBUFS

Shipyard to go ‘beyond, but it won’t come easy’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

$6.17

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net A BAHAMASbased investment banker yesterday said “insufficient demand” means the Government is unlikely to lower its domestic debt costs through the launch of competitive bidding for its MICHAEL securities.

ANDERSON Michael Anderson, RF Bank & Trust’s president, told Tribune Business that the “generally negative market sentiment” prevailing towards government debt will also blunt potential benefits from the planned January 2, 2024, launch of reforms to how Bahamas Registered Stock (BRS) bonds are issued to investors.

The Central Bank, which acts as the Government’s agent in issuing/auctioning both bonds and Treasury Bills, confirmed in newspaper advertisements yesterday that so-called “competitive bidding’s” launch had been pushed back from this month to the New Year.

This reform, if successful, will effectively allow the market to set the price and interest coupon on all future debt issues, as opposed to these being determined by the Government and Central Bank.

Mr Anderson, though, voiced doubts that the switch to free market mechanisms will result in lower costs and interest rates on both BRS and Treasury Bill issuances at a time when the Government is eager to generate any savings possible on an $11.645bn national debt which, at end-June 2023, was equivalent to almost 85 percent of the country’s economic output or gross domestic product (GDP).

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