for housing shortage
By NEIL HARTNELL
Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
A BAHAMIAN developer yesterday warned “there’s no silver bullet that cures all” housing shortage ills while asserting that persons would be “shocked” by how much land prices have increased since 2000.
Franon Wilson, Arawak Homes president, told Tribune Business he and his executives had found “a huge gap” when they recently obtained back issues of this newspaper and the Nassau Guardian to compare 2024’s vacant New Providence land prices with those from as far back as 2010 and the turn of the century.
While the exercise did not involve like-for-like comparisons of the same property, it did show that the price for a 10,000 square foot parcel in Sea Breeze Estates had jumped from $115,000 in 2010 to $150,000 in 2024. While these are different vacant lots, the $35,000 increase
• Bahamians be ‘shocked’ by land price appreciation
• Arawak Homes chief, realtor urge zoning relaxation
• Sound warning over any Gov’t rental price controls
represents a 30.4 percent increase in 14 years. And the cost of a near10,000 square foot lot “off Carmichael Road” had near-tripled during the first 24 years of the 21st century. While one such property was advertised in the newspapers for $50,000 in 2000, another - slightly smaller at 9,600 square feet but in the same location - was listed in the newspapers for $147,000 last year.
“When you look at it, it helps to show what is happening,” Mr Wilson told this newspaper of the raw data assembled by Arawak Homes.
“I can tell you it’s significant,”
he added of the vacant land price appreciation over the past two-and-a-half decades.
“If you did that exercise you would be shocked.
“When you look at how much property has increased in value from 2010 to 2020, if you continued that exercise today, I think there would be an even higher jump, especially in western New Providence; especially there. So it really highlights that when we speak about the challenges of home ownership, a lot of factors have to be considered.
Hose fault was 30,000 gallon Exuma oil spill?
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor
nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
A BAHAMIAN shipping company embroiled in a 30,000-gallon Exuma oil spill has launched a Supreme Court action against the US supplier and Indian manufacturer of “alleged defective hoses” that caused the pollution.
The move by D&T Shipping, whose MT Arabian
vessel was transporting fuel supplied by BISX-listed FOCOL Holdings to Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) generation facilities on that island when the spill occurred, was revealed in a November 5, 2025, ruling by Sir Ian Winder.
The Chief Justice found that the Gladstone Road-headquartered shipping firm’s service of the Supreme Court legal proceedings on Louisiana-based Hose Source
Regulator detects 142 breaches by licensees
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business
Reporter jsimmonsl@tribunemedia.net
THE Securities Commission has detected 142 breaches committed by its capital markets, investment fund and corporate services provider licensees as a result of on-site inspections conducted in 2025, it was revealed yesterday.
Megan Knowles, a senior manager at the Securities Commission, said the regulator has completed 87 on-site inspections for the year-to-date and issued 79 official reports in addition
to recording the supervisory breaches.
Speaking at the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) Accountant’s Week, Ms Knowles said the top deficiencies noted during the conduct of on-site examinations include a number of issues related to International Obligations (Economic and Ancillary Measures) Act filings and failings with the administrative filing of the Anti-Terrorism Act statement. She also identified other issues including gaps in
Bahamas misses ‘passing grade’ over 35% project success rates
By ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business
THE Bahamas’ is failing to obtain “a passing grade” by bringing just 35 percent of proposed public-private partnership (PPP) projects through to fruition, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) executive warned yesterday. Christopher Sinckler, strategic advisor to the IDB’s Caribbean country department, told the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) accountants’ week conference that the region and The Bahamas are receiving
a “failing grade” over their success in taking projects from the concept stage to the point where they are investable and bankable.
“Our rate of penetration is 21 percent and that would be considered a failing grade,” Mr Sinckler said. “In fact, if we look at the statistics per country in the PPP space... On public private partnerships alone, the Caribbean, with the exception of Jamaica, which is at a 53.5 percent success rate of penetration, all of our Caribbean countries that are covered by the IDB have fallen significantly behind.
LLC on January 9, 2024, was defective because key legal documents were missing. However, he extended “the validity” of D&T Shipping’s claim until year-end to give it 56 days - or eight weeks - to properly serve Hose Source with its action and accompanying paperwork.
Noting that the Indian manufacturer, Polyhose India (Rubber) Ltd, has not participated in the action thus far, Sir Ian wrote of
D&T Shipping’s claim: “The claimant alleges that it has sustained injury and damage as a result of alleged defective hoses sold by Hose and manufactured by Polyhose.
“Hose says that on or about May 2, 2022, a firsttime customer, Ronnie Ledet (Ledet), a resident of Houma, Louisiana, entered the Hose storefront located in Gray, Louisiana, and ordered five
‘Don’t push agenda’: Electric vehicle 50% target ‘not feasible’
• Auto dealers urge: ‘Let market set pace’
• Gov’ts earlier market share goals missed
• ‘Smokescreen’ fear amid battery concern
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMIAN auto dealers yesterday warned the Government against “pushing an agenda” that disrupts the industry as they argued that achieving 50 percent electric vehicle by 2025 “just isn’t feasible for us as a country”.
Ben Albury, the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s (BMDA) president, predicted to Tribune Business that new electric vehicle sales will “settle a lot different from what they are aiming for” after the Government pledged to the world in its latest commitments to the climate change fight that they will seize half the market.
Combined with hybrid vehicles, which the Government promised will account for 30 percent of all new auto sales in ten years’ time, they and electric vehicles are to account for 80 percent market share or four out of every five deals, but the BMDA chief pointed out that none of the previous forecasts on their uptake “have aligned with reality”.
He was backed by his namesake, Fred Albury, the Auto Mall principal, who told this newspaper that the Government must “allow the market to set the pace” on electric vehicle sales and not interfere with the industry’s workings as this would undermine employment and individual dealerships. He argued that the amount of carbon emissions created to extract lithium and other minerals used in electric vehicle batteries is “excessive”, and suggested the promotion
BEN ALBURY
CLIMATE - See Page B6
FRANON WILSON
MATT SWEETING
ESPORTS GROWTH LAYS PATH FOR DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURS
In recent years, the global gaming industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, expanding beyond leisure and entertainment into a space that is influencing education, innovation and business strategy. The convergence of esports and virtual reality, often called VR, sits at the heart of this evolution and offers valuable lessons for how nations such as The Bahamas can prepare for a digitally-driven future.
What was once viewed as a casual pastime has matured into a thriving global business. Esports, which refers to organised competitive video gaming, has become a multi-billion dollar sector with professional teams, sponsorship agreements, media rights and international tournaments that now attract audiences comparable to major sporting events.
Yet beyond the excitement and spectacle, the esports ecosystem reflects a modern business model in action. Players operate as personal brands. Teams function like start-ups with management structures, marketing departments and revenue strategies. Streaming platforms generate advertising income and
engage audiences through digital storytelling.
This blend of technology, creativity and entrepreneurship mirrors the new realities of global commerce. For Bahamian entrepreneurs, particularly those in creative and digital industries, esports serves as a reminder that opportunity can come not only from traditional markets but also from emerging digital spaces where innovation thrives.
Virtual reality has also moved far beyond novelty. Around the world, companies are using VR to improve workforce training, collaboration and customer engagement. In tourism, hotels and travel brands now offer immersive previews of destinations, allowing potential visitors to experience locations before making a booking.
This technology presents a clear opportunity
for The Bahamas. Imagine showcasing the tranquility of Abaco’s cays or the vibrancy of downtown Nassau through interactive virtual tours that reach potential visitors across continents before they even arrive.
Beyond tourism, VR can strengthen workforce development. By simulating real world situations, employers can provide cost-effective training that mirrors real conditions. This approach can enhance the skills of Bahamian workers while reducing the logistical challenges and expenses associated with traditional hands-on instruction.
As gaming and VR continue to converge, The Bahamas stands at an important crossroads. The country’s young population, expanding digital infrastructure and growing technology culture, make it
BAHAMAS PARTNERING WITH AI FIRM TO CRAFT TOURIST VACATIONS R OYE II
THE Bahamas has partnered with an artificial intelligence (AI) powered platform in a bid to develop customised vacation itineraries for its thousands of visitors.
The Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, in a statement, said the tie-up with Mindtrip will enable would-be tourists to explore The Bahamas’ lesser-known Family Islands or enjoy activities such as food festivals, scuba diving and ecotourism.
It added that Mindtrip for business will help visitors plan, design and experience itineraries that exceed expectations. “The Bahamas is the perfect partner for Mindtrip for Business because the destination offers something for every traveller,” said Andy Moss, Mindtrip’s co-founder and chief executive.
“Whether it’s family fun, romance, eco-tourism or outdoor adventure, Mindtrip makes discovering and experiencing the islands effortless. It’s travel planning reimagined for today’s modern explorer.” When planning a trip on https://www.bahamas.
com, visitors will interact with Mindtrip’s AI, which answers questions, suggests experiences and instantly generates custom itineraries complete with photos and interactive maps for each point of interest based on personalised preferences.
well-suited to engage with these emerging industries. Educational institutions can introduce programmes in game design, digital animation and immersive technology. Local marketing agencies can create virtual brand experiences for clients. Entrepreneurs can explore opportunities in digital tourism, esports management and content creation. Each of these initiatives contributes to a broader vision of economic diversification, and positions Bahamian talent as active participants in the digital economy rather than mere consumers of it.
Both gaming and business rely on the same core principles: Strategy, teamwork, adaptability and continuous learning. These qualities are essential for The Bahamas as it embraces the realities of the modern economy and prepares for the future of work.
The Ministry said Mindtrip will instantly process questions such as the best time to visit The Bahamas, which resorts are best for families, or where to find top-rated restaurants and local cuisine. It will also give localised tips, eliminating guesswork and saving time.
“In our ongoing commitment to enhance the visitor experience, we are leveraging innovative technology to revolutionise how travellers are planning their getaway to The Bahamas,” said Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation.
“This partnership with Mindtrip is an exciting and important step forward in making trip planning more personalised, ensuring every visitor to our world class destination can
immerse themselves in our culture, adventures and natural beauty even before they arrive.”
The Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation said Mindtrip will also deliver up-to-date weather conditions for the region, including real time updates on tropical storms, hurricanes and other events that may impact travel.
It added that Mindtrip will also also guide international visitors to the best airports for their needs, showing which countries offer regular service, such as Panama and London, along with seasonal routes from Europe and options for private charters.
“Our goal is to ensure that the islands of The Bahamas remain a first choice for travellers worldwide,” said Latia Duncombe, the Ministry of
The convergence of gaming and business is about much more than entertainment. It represents innovation, creativity and forward thinking. For a nation built on resilience and enterprise, The Bahamas has every reason to take these lessons seriously. If we approach the opportunity wisely, the next great Bahamian success story may begin not in a boardroom or resort, but in the digital arena.
• NB: About Keith Keith Roye II is a highly analytic and solutions-driven professional with extensive experience in software development. He holds a BSc in computer science and his career includes leading and delivering global software projects in various industries in The Bahamas and the US.
Tourism, Investments and Aviation’s director-general.
“Through this partnership with Mindtrip, we are showcasing the vibrant culture and rich diversity of our 16 unique islands, while connecting travellers to experiences that matter most to them and offering a truly immersive view of The Bahamas.”
Besides partnering with The Bahamas, Mindtrip for Business works with destinations ranging from national tourism boards such as Brand USA and Visit Costa Rica to US territories such as Discover Puerto Rico. It also assists state organisations such as Visit California and Travel Nevada, regional destination marketing organisations such as The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau and See Monterey, and cities incuding Visit Myrtle Beach, Visit Buena Park, New Orleans & Company and Visit Truckee-Tahoe.
KEITH
CHESTER COOPER
REDUNDANCY BOND ON HOLD - FOR NOW
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
PLANS to mandate that Bahamian employers must finance redundancy insurance as part of proposed reforms to employment legislation have been put on hold for now, it was confirmed yesterday.
Keenan Johnson, legal consultant to the Ministry of Labour and the Public Service, said the proposalwhich would have required employers to set aside funds to cover potential future redundancy payments to staff - raised significant
private sector concerns especially for small to medium-sized businesses.
Speaking at the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) Accountant’s Week, Mr Johnson said imposing such a requirement would be similar to forcing businesses to take out an insurance policy and create an additional financial burden at a time when many are already grappling with high and increasing operating costs.
He added that the Government is seeking to achieve a balanced approach that protects employees without harming
smaller businesses, and the redundancy bond will not be included in the new employment legislation, though it remains under consideration for future review.
“As you can appreciate, there were many concerns with this, particularly for small to medium-sized businesses. Essentially, this would be like imposing an insurance requirement on them. We need to find a way to balance the approach so it doesn’t have a detrimental impact on smaller employers who are already paying their bills and doing what they are supposed to do,” said Mr Johnson.
“We don’t want to create a situation where they are effectively taxed because of what other companies did or may do. This is still under consideration and will not form part of the new employment legislation.”
Mr Johnson said the redundancy bond concept was inspired by past corporate failures, including the CLICO and City Markets collapses, where employees were left without redundancy pay after companies failed. The idea was to require employers to set aside a small monthly fund, essentially an insurance reserve, to ensure employees could receive their
redundancy payments even if the company became insolvent.
“Anyone remember the CLICO issue and City Markets? This concept was born out of that situation; the idea that a company may go bankrupt and, once it ceases to exist, its employees are made redundant. But in some cases, even though employees are being made redundant, the employer simply does not have the funds to pay their redundancy,” said Mr Johnson.
“The concept of a redundancy bond is almost like insurance, requiring the employer to pay a certain amount each month so that,
in the event of liquidation or redundancy without funding, there is a reserve to make those employees whole.”
Mr Johnson said another recommendation discussed during the consultationpaid mental health days - was also rejected for now. However, unpaid mental health days are being considered. He said the focus is to first recognise the concept and importance of mental health, while ensuring a balance of the interests of both employees and employers.
water supply
Gov’t invests $22.7m to aid South Andros
By FAY SIMMONS
Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE Government yesterday committed $22.7m to replace outdated pipelines and expand water distribution across Mangrove Cay, with new mains and service connections planned for more than 350 homes and businesses.
Leon Lundy, minister with responsibility for the Water & Sewerage Corporation, and also MP for Mangrove Cay, Central & South Andros, said families in the area have lived for years with low water pressure and, at times, no water at all. The project is designed to renew the island’s water system, strengthening reliability and distribution.
Mr Lundy said the project is split into two main parts, where Bakerwick Construction will handle
the waterworks portion worth $5.5m, and Ambi’s Patching and Maintenance will manage the roadworks portion worth $17.2m.
“This is a 22.7m investment by the Government of The Bahamas, made possible through a public-private partnership led by the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs. Bakerwick Construction Company will undertake the waterworks component valued at $5.5m, while Ambi’s Patching and Maintenance will execute the roadworks valued at $17.2m,” said Mr Lundy. “Together, these projects form a single mission: To give Mangrove Cay the infrastructure that matches its spirit and potential.” He added that the project will involve installing over 46,000 feet of four-inch water mains and 13,600 feet of two-inch mains. This upgrade will provide 350 homes and businesses with new service connections,
benefiting more than 1,000 residents.
“This project represents a complete renewal of our island’s water system, replacing outdated galvanised and PVC pipelines with a new, modern network built to serve our people for generations to come,” said Mr Lundy.
“The works will include the installation of more than 46,000 feet of four-inch mains and 13,600 feet of two-inch mains. Three hundred and fifty homes and businesses will receive new service lateral connections,
benefiting more than 1,000 residents. The system will extend from Moxey Town to Lisbon Creek in Mangrove Cay, strengthening water reliability and distribution across the island.”
Mr Lundy added that that earlier in the year, a $1.04m contract was signed to install transmission mains linking the reverse osmosis plant in Kemp’s Bay with the wellfield at The Bluff in South Andros,
and the project builds on that progress.
“It is not just an upgrade of pipes; it is an investment in public health, community resilience and national development. When complete, this island will finally have what it has long deserved; strong pressure, clean water and consistent service from end to end,” said Mr Lundy.
“Earlier this year, we signed a $1.04m
contract for the installation of transmission mains linking the Corporation’s reverse osmosis plant in Kemp’s Bay with the wellfield at The Bluff, South Andros. Today’s signing builds upon that momentum, extending the reach of safe, reliable water throughout Andros and ensuring that every community on this island stands on the same foundation of modern, resilient infrastructure.”
SIMPLIFIED OFFERS FREE AI COURSE FOR CLIENTS
THE Simplified Group of Companies yesterday pledged it will provide free artificial intelligence (AI) education and certification to all customers who engage with it.
The course, called Unlock the Power of AI, will be offered on a complimentary by Simplified Tech, the group’s AI adoption, implementation and robotics company, via its online learning platform.
“We believe that understanding AI is no longer optional; it’s essential,” said Robert Pantry, the Simplified Group of Companies’ founder and chief executive.
“By empowering our clients with this knowledge, we’re helping them unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation and efficiency, and to give them
a competitive advantage on the global AI stage.”
The offer extends to all new and existing customers who engage in new business with any of the four Simplified Group companies. Those companies include Affinity Insurance, Simplified Lending, Auto Simplified and Simplified Tech.
“This groundbreaking initiative reflects the group’s core purpose - to bridge the gap between people’s goals and happiness,” added Mr Pantry. “It reinforces the vision to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem that empowers individuals and businesses to excel through simple, innovative and transformative solutions.”
Simplified said that, beginning on November 17, all new clients or existing clients signing up for
qualifying products or services under any of its four companies will receive complimentary enrollment in the ‘Unlock the Power of AI’ course if they desire.
“By offering complimentary AI education, the group is empowering
clients to better understand and benefit from emerging technologies shaping the global economy,” Mr Pantry said. “It positions them to acquire skills and knowledge that's readily shaping every aspect of human life. It also provides
SIMPLIFIED Group of Companies founder & CEO Robert Pantry pictured at 2025 press conference introducing Evie, the first humanoid financial services associate, announces a landmark initiative – customers will receive artificial intelligence training and certification free of charge starting November 17 through Simplified Tech.
our clients with the knowledge necessary to help their children and loved ones learn and adopt AI.”
The course, according to Kinara Lloyd, Simplified Tech’s business lead, is designed to be an easy-to-use and understand introduction to AI. It covers concepts including how AI works; every day AI applications and common misconceptions; AI tools such as ChatGPT & MS Copilot; effective prompting; and overcoming challenges.
It also includes a parents' tool-kit to teach AI and
CHAMBER PRESIDENT TO LEAD-OFF LONG ISLAND BUSINESS OUTLOOK
THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive will deliver the keynote address at the 11th annual Long Island Business Outlook conference that will be held next Thursday at the Clarence Town Community Centre. Conference organisers, The Counsellors, said the November 20 event will be held under the theme ‘Prioritising inclusive sustainable growth’. It will focus on strategies to strengthen Long Island’s economy, support sustainable development and preserve the island’s traditions.
Besides the lead address by Dr Leo Rolle, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce & Employers Confederation (BCCEC) chief, infrastructure
discussions will feature a panel consisting of Toni Seymour, Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chief executive; Fané Austin, engineer and project manager at the Water & Sewerage Corporation; and a representative from Renugen Pro (solar), focusing on how utilities and renewable energy initiatives can drive productivity and support local business growth. Dr Kenneth Romer, director of aviation and deputy director-general of tourism, will present on airport development, while a panel moderated by Kerry Fountain, executive director of the Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board, will examine airline operations and tourism access.
Panellists include Dr Romer; Tracy Cooper, managing director of Bahamasair; Bethsheba Gibbs, accounts manager/director at Southern Airways, and Sarah Swainson, business development director, Makers Air. They will discuss strategies to improve connectivity, attract visitors and boost commerce on the island.
Entrepreneurship will be highlighted by a panel including Margaret Fox of Sheep Runner Ferry; Mario Cartwright, distributor for SunOil (Shell); and Peter Fox, owner of PFC, who will share how local business leaders are seizing opportunities to grow their ventures.
Dwight Burrows, treasurer of the Long Islanders
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Requirements:
• Good work ethic
• Excellent Communication and Problem Solving Skills
• Ability to work independently • Ability to lift a minimum of 30 pounds
Interested persons should email their resume to cieloconsultants242@gmail.com on or before Friday, November 21 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
A well-established, independent early years school in Nassau is seeking a part-time qualified Pre-Kindergarten Teacher to join our Early Learning team.
We are looking for a warm, nurturing, and enthusiastic educator who has a genuine love for working with very young children (ages 18 months – 3 years) and a strong understanding of early childhood development. The ideal candidate will demonstrate creativity, patience, and professionalism in supporting each child’s social, emotional, and academic growth.
Key Responsibilities:
• Plan and deliver engaging, play-based learning experiences tailored to toddlers and early learners
• Support children’s emerging language, motor, and self-help skills through handson, age-appropriate activities
• Foster a safe, caring, and stimulating classroom environment where every child feels valued and supported
• Communicate effectively and compassionately with parents regarding student progress and daily routines
• Maintain consistent classroom structure and positive behavior management
• Work collaboratively with Assistant Teachers and the wider Early Years team to ensure smooth daily operations
• Participate in school events and contribute to a positive, caring school culture
• Adhere to all safeguarding policies and uphold the highest standards of professionalism
Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Education (Early Childhood or Primary preferred)
• Previous classroom experience with toddlers or preschool-aged children
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• A nurturing, patient, and team-oriented approach
If you are passionate about helping young children learn, grow, and thrive in a caring and creative environment, we would love to hear from you. We are seeking someone who is available to start as soon as possible.
Please forward your résumé and a brief introduction letter to hrbahamas2014@gmail.com.
Association, said, “I’m excited to participate in the 11th annual Long Island Business Outlook. This forum is an important setting that connects ideas with action. It brings together community leaders, entrepreneurs and national partners to focus on how we can build and strengthen our island’s economy while preserving the traditions that define Long Islanders.
“This kind of collaboration helps ensure that Long Island’s growth is inclusive, sustainable and anchored on the pride and resilience of our people.”
Mr Burrows will also discuss the economic benefits of regattas and festivals, emphasising how community events stimulate local spending and tourism.
Deon Gibson, the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute general manager, will
explore opportunities and challenges in agriculture, while Stephanie Cartwright, assistant fisheries superintendent III at the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources, will discuss fisheries as a critical driver of Long Island’s economy, highlighting sustainable practices and industry trends.
Ramona Ritchie-Taylor, operator of RRT Consultant Services, and SunQuest Services & Event Rentals, a moderator for the event, said: “I am very excited about this year's outlook because we will be hearing from a great cross-section of local entrepreneurs who are having a direct impact on the island's economy. The movers and shakers on Long Island are leading the way in keeping the island going.”
Fellow moderator, Tuesday White, owner of TWP
real-world personal/workplace applications for AI. Those taking the course can do so at their own pace, and will receive a certificate of participation once finished.
“This course demystifies AI and shows how it can be used as a beneficial tool in one's work and everyday life, as well as with problem solving or decision-making. It’s designed to create confident, AI tech-ready clients regardless of their technical background,” said Lloyd, who added that familiarity will help improve The Bahamas’ digital readiness.
Publications, added: “It’s always a privilege to be part of something that inspires encouragement, enlightenment and empowerment across our communities. The Long Island Business Outlook isn’t just about business; it’s about connection, collaboration and creating the kind of awareness that drives good business and sustainable growth. I’m proud to lend my voice to a forum that continues to move our island forward.”
Photo:Cay Focus/DPA
Jamaicans driving cyber scams in The Bahamas
By ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter anixon@tribunemedia.net
CYBER-related frauds and scams such as ‘smishing’ are ever-increasing and “largely being perpetrated out of Jamaica”, senior Bahamian bank executives warned yesterday.
Denise Turnquest, Commonwealth Bank’s president, told the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) accountants’ week conference that once personal information is provided to a fraudster they can swiftly withdraw funds from the victim’s account.
Warning that providing personal banking information to fraudsters relieves banks of any responsibility, she added: “And so, you know, it's really important for you to understand, I think if you get nothing out of what we say today, no bank will ever call you to ask you for your password.
“And the challenge with this scheme is that whether inadvertently or not, you have provided the fraudster with everything that they need to move money from your account. You've given them your user name, your login password, and then you've given them the onetime password to authorise the transfer out of your account. And so at the end of the day, the banks have no responsibility, because you have provided the fraudster with everything that they need.”
Ms Turnquest said smish-
ing is a lucrative business but IT teams are working to stop and prevent the attacks. She added that most incidents are
perpetrated from Jamaica but there have been arrests in The Bahamas.
“We've determined that this is largely being perpetrated out of Jamaica, and there have been some arrests, and I want to make that one very clear. So persons have been arrested locally with significant amounts of cash,” the Commonwealth Bank chief said.
Roger Archer, Scotiabank’s vice-president and district head for the northern Caribbean, said financial services has been in transition for years as it pertains to digital payments and he does not see any turning back.
“It has made access the banking a lot easier,” Mr Archer said. “When you think about the ability to make payments in other countries, there was a time you needed to physically visit the branch to do that. You don't need to do that anybmore. You can make transactions digitally. So the convenience for our clients is something that I think everyone likes.”
Mr Archer said Scotiabank has invested in tools that will ensure the safety of clients and staff. “What we've started to do is to invest more in tools that help clients to manage that risk, and help us also identify the risk as early as possible,” he said, “whether it is in behavioural attributes.
“So you know, we are able to tell now who the person is conducting the transaction. Let's say that person is left handed, but the person doing the transaction is right-handed. Those are things that we're actually able to tell at the point in the
transaction, because of some of the investments that we've made.
“We've also started to invest in educating clients. So internally, we have what we call a phishing campaign… It is not only to our clients, but it's also to our staff. And it's also ensuring that we keep our institutions safe,” Mr Archer added.
“So we've entered into this framework where we send phishing to our team members on a periodic basis so that they're educated on what not to click. That has helped team members to become a lot more aware. They're able to communicate with clients on the importance of not clicking on links.
“But in addition to that, what we've started to look at is how can we educate our clients and also doing similar programmes with our clients. So we can send phishing e-mails to those clients. We can have something pop up to say: This is just a test. You could have been defrauded, Ensure that you're not clicking on these things going forward. Those are some of the programmes that we have put in place.”
Derek Rolle, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, said the regulator encourages financial literacy through a number of programmes. He spoke to the Get Money Smart campaign, which aims to educate the public about financial terms and products. It has also partnered with commercial banks for the Live Digital Campaign, which helps “the public to understand what options exist in the market for them to live their lives in a more digital way”.
Bahamian shipper gets second service chance
POLLUTION - from page B1
red fuel-discharged hose assemblies with stainless steel fittings.
“On May 27, 2022, Ledet collected the hose assemblies from the Hose storefront. On or about July 19, 2022, while in the vicinity of Exuma, a vessel owned by the claimant was transporting fuel when a fuel spill occurred.”
Sir Ian’s judgment made no mention of the details surrounding the spill, or the other parties involvednamely FOCOL Holdings (shell) and BPL. However, his ruling reveals that the hose assemblies blamed for causing the spill were acquired on D&T Shipping’s behalf less than two months before the incident occurred.
Tribune Business reporting from that time confirms that the July 19, 2022, date mentioned by Sir Ian aligns with when the Exuma oil spill occurred. The incident generated numerous questions, not least whether the
parties involved had the necessary insurance, who would pay for the clean-up costs and whether the Government would seek to levy fines and sanctions as provided for under then newly-passed environmental legislation.
Sir Franklyn Wilson, FOCOL Holdings’ chairman, told this newspaper on July 20, 2022, that the spill was caused by “a ruptured hose” that was transferring diesel fuel from the MT Arabian to BPL’s storage facility on the island.
Revealing that FOCOL’s Sun Oil subsidiary had contracted with the Arabian’s owner for the fuel delivery, he added that it was “investigating” whether that company, D&T Shipping, had the necessary insurance in place to cover the costs associated with oil spill containment and remediation.
Sir Franklyn disclosed that Sun Oil, which is contracted to ship fuel supplies to BPL’s Family Island operations, was forced to outsource the Exuma delivery to D&T
Dealers assert electric not suitable for Family Islands
of such autos as environmentally-friendly is acting as a “smokescreen” for this.
“I think these sorts of goals have been set before,”
Ben Albury said of the Government’s latest ambitions to curb greenhouse gas and carbon emissions from The Bahamas. “At the end of the day, the way the market is
going to settle, there’s going to be room for gasoline vehicles, there’s going to be room for electric vehicles, there’s going to be room for hybrids, and there’s going to be room for diesel.
“Unless there’s going to be some immediate infrastructure changes here that are implemented in a short period of time, that ‘10 years from now’ goal, I don’t think that is sustainable. It’s good
Shipping due to the loss of its gas tanker, the M/T Tropic Breeze, when it sank on Christmas Eve 2021 after being struck by a 207-foot super yacht.
Dexter Adderley, FOCOL’s president and chief executive, in confirming to the company’s directors that 30,000 gallons of diesel fuel had been lost into the sea, said in a briefing note: “The spill resulted from a ruptured hose during the discharge from the vessel, MT Arabian. The MT Arabian is a third party vessel owned by a company, D&T Shipping.”
Sir Franklyn added that FOCOL/Sun Oil, in common with the Government, would also be requesting an incident report from D&T Shipping to determine how the “hose rupture” leading to the oil spill occurred and what lessons can be learned to prevent a repeat.
Pointing out that such spills are “very, very rare”, he revealed: “We have asked the ship owner to provide us with a full and comprehensive report as to what happened. The Government has asked for the same, and we’ll have a chance to get into the details.
that they have these targets, but they are seldom reached, and it’s extremely ambitious to achieve that.”
The Bahamas Bus and Truck general manager said his “infrastructure” comments did not relate solely to the need for electric vehicle charging stations, and the present condition of the Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) grid and whether it can accommodate the extra demand, but also whether electric vehicles are both feasible and suitable for the Family Islands.
“Can you imagine having electric vehicles in Cat
“That’s the next step in the process. Right now it’s about remediation, getting problems solved, and the ship owner providing a report to the Government. We’ll then take whatever steps are necessary to ensure this doesn’t happen again.”
Asked whether the necessary oil spill response equipment is present in The Bahamas, Sir Franklyn replied: “Let me put it this way. We believe we have sufficient to do so, but to the extent there’s any shortfall we have relationships that will allow us to get additional resources on very short notice.
“We are taking responsibility in that we are the people BPL contracted with. We are pleased that the company we sub-contracted to because of the December incident are shoulder to shoulder with us in seeking the best possible outcome.”
Explaining what he meant by “December incident”, Sir Franklyn told this newspaper: “The use of a third-party vessel became necessary on a short-term basis because of the incident with the tanker that sank in December 2021. A yacht ran into one of our tankers and it sank. It is because of
Island, electric vehicles in Inagua, some of these places?” he asked. “I just don’t think it’s feasible for us as a country to think we will be able to go to that degree in that length of time. It’s good to have ambition, good to have some sort of target, but I don’t think it is going to settle where their targets are.
“We have people who want electric vehicles, people who want hybrids, people who want diesel. We have other alternative energy sources and are looking at hydrogen. I don’t think there’s a cookie cutter solution. If you look at electric vehicle sales from where they were ten years ago to where they are now, none of the predictions have aligned with reality.
“Electric vehicle sales in the US and worldwide, it’s kind of soft. It’s not in the realm of what they originally projected some time ago,” Ben Albury added. “I think projections are there to set some sort of target, some sort of goal posts but, at the end of the day, they are going to settle a lot differently from what they are aiming for.
“These technologies are getting better and better, but they are not accelerating at a rate to sustain that type of growth; not at this stage.” The Government is aiming for electric vehicles to account for 30 percent of new auto sales by 2030, but even that target is likely to be missed with Pia Farmer, Easy Car Sales’ principal, admitting these models only currently have 12-15 percent of the Bahamian market.
Fred Albury, meanwhile, echoed the BMDA
that we have had to make interim arrangements to meet these needs.” This involved the loss of the M/T Tropic Breeze, when it sank on Christmas Eve 2021 after being struck by a 207-foot super yacht, the M/Y Utopia IV, around 15 miles north northwest of New Providence.
“We are very concerned, very, very concerned. Environmental protection in the world of business today, responsible companies operate under the ESG mantra of environment, social and governance. The first one is environment. Given what FOCOL and Sun Oil see ourselves as being, we take this very seriously. Very, very seriously, being responsible and committed to the environment,” Sir Franklyn said in July 2022. Sir Ian, in his ruling, noted that Hose Source has no presence, assets or operations in The Bahamas. After it was served by D&T Shipping on January 9, 2024, it responded by seeking a declaration that the Supreme Court had “no jurisdiction” to try the claim and sought to have the matter stayed or dismissed, with service set aside.
president’s concerns about lack of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and their adaptability to Family Island conditions, arguing that the “environment is not conducive on some of these islands”. He told Tribune Business: “The technology is changing so quickly, and 2035 is ten years away, and so much can happen between now and then… My biggest concern is disposing of these electric vehicle batteries. I know Toyota is working on its solid stable battery that will have faster charging and longer range.
“I say this. A fully electric vehicle is a smokescreen if you’re targeting carbon neutrality, because the carbon footprint to extract the minerals from the ground to make these batteries is excessive. Toyota has done a study, and the amount of lithium that goes into one battery makes 18 plugins for hybrids or 32-38 plug-in batteries” for regular vehicles.
“I think they [the Government] should allow the market to set the pace and not push an agenda because you are going to impact employment at car dealerships,” Fred Albury warned, adding that the Government needed to develop a regulatory regime to deal with the potential environmental harm caused by the disposal of electric vehicle batteries.
Noting that auto manufacturers are developing hydrogen-powered vehicles and hydrogen hybrids, he added: “There’s a lot of pros and negatives to the scenario out there. I’m keeping an open mind. The auto industry is changing a lot.
It based this on D&T Shipping’s failure to serve the G7 form that gives “jurisdictional notice”, plus the acknowledgement of service and defence forms, arguing that this made the process “fundamentally defective”. Sir Ian wrote of Hose Source’s position: “It says that in such circumstances, the claim fForm and its accompanying documents cannot be deemed to have been properly served, as the mandatory requirements for valid service have not been met. Finally, the defendant says that the court lacks jurisdiction to hear the action.”
The Chief Justice, while backing Hose Source’s arguments and setting aside the original service, gave D&T Shipping a second chance. “I will, under the circumstances, extend the validity of the standard claim form to December 31, 2025,” he ruled.
“This not only provides an appropriate window for the proper service of the claim form and the necessary accompanying documents, but fulfils the overriding objective of saving expenses and ensuring that cases are dealt with expeditiously and fairly.”
The Chinese have come in fast and furious. Can they keep their prices up?
“They are trying to buy their way into the market, and early prices will escalate as well. We have some good brands, and we’ve been here for a long time. I don’t want to go anywhere. I’ll be right here taking care of my customers.”
The Bahamas, in its just-released third nationally determined contribution (NDC) setting out this country’s commitments to fighting global climate change, said: “The Bahamas continues to advance its transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient future through strengthened national policies, institutional reform and renewed ambition.
“Considerable progress has been made toward achieving its overarching 2030 reduction goals and contributing to the global carbon neutrality objective by 2050. Building on the progress communicated in its second NDC, The Bahamas’ third NDC demonstrates enhanced ambition through these new targets for 2035.”
These goals are described as “having at least 45 percent of renewables in the national energy mix by 2035, building on the previous 30 percent by 2030 target outlined in the [second] updated NDC”.
They also involve “reducing national greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent relative to 2010 greenhouse gas emissions, revised from the business-as-usual (BaU) and 2010 levels referenced in the previous NDC”.
Insurance Commission: Bahamas one of eight leaders on standard
SUPERVISE - from page B1
training, weaknesses in the risk assessment framework and risk rating processes, as well as breaches in customer verification and ongoing monitoring.
“An overview of our on-site inspection and examinations work for the year to-date: We have completed 87 examinations, issued a total of 79 reports and recorded 142 breaches,” said Ms Knowles.
“The top on-site deficiencies noted during the conduct of on-site examinations are as follows. We
have seen a a number of issues in relation to the IOEAMA filings. We have also identified deficiencies with the administrative filing of the Anti-Terrorism Act statement, where firms are required to confirm that they do not hold any terrorist property.
“Additionally, we have observed deficiencies in training, weaknesses in the risk assessment framework and risk rating processes, as well as breaches in customer verification and ongoing monitoring. For 2026, the examination priorities will focus on money lending
IDB executive urges better preparation for PPP deals
“And for The Bahamas, the rate is 35 percent, which is not bad. But it’s still not a passing grade. If you look at Barbados... it is 6.8 percent. Trinidad and Tobago is only 14 percent. So at that rate, we will not be able to get even anywhere close to where we need to get, particularly when we think about growing in private sector support.”
Mr Sinckler said the IDB has created the project preparation co-ordination mechanism (PPCM) to help countries and stakeholders in both the private and public sectors better prepare, and structure projects so they can build a pipeline of bankable, investable developments to help grow the Caribbean.
“It is, however, a mechanism to co-ordinate and augment IDB resources internally, and to match those through an IDB approach - that is bringing all of our core key technical experts, co-ordinating them through a technical advisory committee, and putting those talents at the service of our countries,
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of private sector, of stakeholders, wherever they may be found, national and regional,” Mr Sinckler said. “And then to build a relationship with external providers of the highest possible quality. And that is important. And why it is important? It’s important to you as an association, because in addition to utilising internal IDB expertise, the PPCM has been designed to tap into external expertise.
“That is the lawyers, the accountants, the engineers, the architects, the environmental specialists, wherever they are to be found in the Caribbean or in the wide world. But, of course, as a Caribbean institution, we want to ensure that we tap first into the talents that we have.”
The Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica, Suriname, and Guyana will require a combined minimum of $21.5bn between now and 2030 to meet the infrastructure component of the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs), according to Mr Sinckler.
activity, KYC (know your customer) identification and CRS (common reporting standard).”
Le’Annka Rigby, assistant manager for the actuarial and financial analytics unit at the Insurance Commission of the Bahamas, said 90 percent of its licensees are now compliant with international financial reporting standard (IFRS) 17, which makes The Bahamas one of only eight jurisdictions leading in this area.
At the same time, she acknowledged a problem with timeliness, highlighting that external auditors
“So if only in infrastructure - that is the roads and bridges and, of course, water sanitation and so forth and so on,” Mr Sinckler said. “If only in that space we require $21.5bn between now and 2030, I don’t have to tell you what the prohibitive cost would be to include social infrastructure, to go into digitisation, digitising our economies, to go into health and education and social welfare, provisioning and so forth and so on. It is a massive total. And so far, our countries, in their pledges, have pledged through to the SDGs $52bn. But that is not even near what is required. That is only for climate mitigation.”
He said investors see Caribbean countries have structural limitations and the project preparation is not adequate.
“And therefore what we require from you are projects that are properly structured, that are well prepared, that are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible, that are inclusive, that point to resilience and, of course, are fiscally responsive and responsible and bankable,” Mr Sinckler said.
“That is what the investors are saying; that we are
sometimes take too long to submit reports to the Commission - a practice that can put auditors and licensees at risk of sanctions or fines.
“We have been greatly pleased with what has been submitted by the accountants in this country, as external auditors to the Commission on behalf of our licensees. Roughly about 90 percent, a little more than 90 percent, of our licensees are now compliant with IFRS 17, and we are leading in the jurisdiction being one of only eight,” said Ms Rigby.
“The timeliness definitely can be improved. It remains a pain point, specifically for the external auditors of our licensees, who perhaps feel as though the accountants
falling short in the adequacy of preparation. And that is why we need you to look more closely at how you prepare projects.”
Five core pillars have been identified: Climate change and resilience building, disaster risk management, private sector growth and development of the economy, national security and citizen security, food security and nutrition security.
Mr Sinckler added: “The project should have a regional focus or impact. Or
are taking too long to submit to the regulatory agency, thereby putting them in a position of potential sanctions and fines.” Ms Rigby said the Insurance Commission will enforce stricter submission deadlines in 2026. In the past, multiple extensions were granted to both licensees and auditors for various reasons, but going forward, these leniencies will no longer be offered.
“The timelines in 2026 for the 2025 financial statements will not be as lenient. We would have offered multiple extensions, both to the licensees and the auditors, for various reasons. However, that will not be the case in 2026,” said Ms Rigby.
if it is a national project, it has to fit within the national priorities as expressed by the Government in the country, in this case, The Bahamas, in terms of the national development priorities. And then it should have or be able to be replicated elsewhere.
“Because one of the things we don’t want to do is to keep knowledge only in one country in the Caribbean. We want to ensure that if you have something that you’ve done well, and you’re prepared to share
She added that the Insurance Commission is considering adding a line in the audited financial statements to make it easier to reconcile premium taxes.
“We are discussing a plausible reason for adding a line in the audited financial statements to assist us with the premium tax reconciliation. As you know, our licensees report to us quarterly and then follow up with the audited financial statements. In the audited financial statements, they do not explicitly state the premiums collected, which would allow us to reconcile the premium taxes that are either owed to the Commission or recorded as a credit on our books,” said Ms Rigby.
that intellectual property, you’re prepared to share those ideas that you should be able to do so, and we can do exchanges between the countries, so people to come and see what was done, how you’ve done it and so forth. As we said, it must respond to an area that is determined by the country or the region to be of importance, and that can be in any any area. And, of course, that the project fitted IDB eligibility.”
MENTAL HEALTH DAYS OFF WILL BE UNPAID
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business
THE days-off for mental health that will be provided to Bahamian workers via the upcoming Employment Act reforms will be unpaid, it was disclosed yesterday. Keenan Johnson, legal consultant for the Ministry of Labour and the Public Service, the changes aim to support employees who may need a break for emotional or mental well-being.
‘Don’t stifle
Speaking at the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) Accountant’s Week conference, he explained that while employees currently have sick days or personal days, the new provision recognises the need for leave when someone is not physically ill but is feeling mentally or emotionally drained.
Mr Johnson clarified that the recommended mental health days would be unpaid, balancing the interests of employers and employees.
development’ by imposing rent controls
VALUE - from page B1
“One of the factors is what someone has to pay for a piece of property. That went up to 2020 and 2024, and I’m sure that if you did this for 2025 those figures would be significantly more. A lot has changed since COVID. Someone looking to buy and develop a property, they have to pay so much more but the reality is salaries have not kept pace with how much properties have appreciated in value. That is one of the challenges we have.”
Mr Wilson added that, while “people throw that word out” when describing The Bahamas’ affordable housing shortage as a “crisis”, there “is definitely something going on” and “an issue for sure”.
Keith Bell, minister of housing and urban renewal, last year said there was a 12,000-unit affordable housing shortage, and the Government has recently signalled it is looking at further reforms to address complaints by tenants that landlords are imposing massive rent increases without warning.
However, both Mr Wilson and Matt Sweeting, managing broker at REMAX Bahamas, cautioned that implementing stricter rent control or price-cap measures threaten to “stifle development” by preventing landlords from earning the necessary investment returns required to make their financial models viable.
Overly-aggressive regulation, they signalled, could drive landlords into a loss-making position and out of the market as they, too, have their own costs to cover. Such a scenario would threaten to further reduce the availability of affordable rental accommodation - exacerbating a housing and achieving the very opposite of the Government’s policy intent at a time when many landlords are shifting from long-term to shorter Airbnb-type vacation rentals that are perceived as higher-yielding and more lucrative.
Both Mr Wilson and Mr Sweeting argued that, instead, the Government should examine relaxing zoning regulations and other restrictive covenants
“We have sick days. Some of us have personal days. But it is important that the law recognises that while I may not have anything physically going on with me, I may just be burnt out,” said Mr Johnson.
“Now, I will say that the recommendation being put forth for mental health days is unpaid. Right now, we have to balance the interests of the employer and employee, and we know fully well that if it was paid you all could take it whether you need it or not.
in single-family residential areas to allow landlords to construct an efficiency apartment or additional unit to their properties.
This, they added, would represent low-hanging fruit that increases the affordable housing supply without needing to develop additional land. Property owners could also generate extra income, but Mr Wilson said such initiatives would have to be co-ordinated with Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) and Water & Sewerage Corporation given that the utilities’ infrastructure may have been designed to only accommodate a certain number of connections in a particular area.
“There’s no silver bullet that will cure all,” Mr Wilson told Tribune Business of the affordable housing woes, “but one possibility to address home ownership is create more inventory by allowing people in single family-zoned communities to add an efficiency on to their homes. We can get more inventory on the market without developing more property to do so.”
He was backed by Mr Sweeting, who told this newspaper he often felt “almost like a food server that doesn’t have enough food to serve the public” because of a lack of
“But the idea with mental health is that you take it when you absolutely need it, and you're only going to take it when it's unpaid if you absolutely need it.”
Mr. Johnson distinguished between mental health and mental illness, noting that the latter is a formally diagnosed condition which would fall under regular sick leave. Mental health, by contrast, refers to situations where employees are not physically ill but are unable to function effectively at work due to stress or emotional strain.
sufficient available inventory to show how clients.
“What the powers that be may consider is some kind of allowance for people to build an additional unit on to their existing property, provided they meet some setbacks and so forth,” Mr Sweeting explained. “While we don’t have much land left on New Providence, it would address the housing concerns. It would give owners a source of rental income and address the housing shortage.”
As for any possible government move to impose tighter rent control and other price cap-type measures, Mr Sweeting acknowledged that “it’s a very challenging balance to meet” given the competing interests of landlords and tenants.
“These are property owners’ financial investments that have been made in construction, electricity and maintenance, and they are increasing their [rent] prices because of the high cost of living,” the REMAX Bahamas chief said. “It’s a difficult balance to meet. This relaxation of zoning is a way for the Government to alleviate this housing concern.
“It will grow the rental market, and create work for people right away. People ask why an Elizabeth Estate efficiency is being marketed for $1,000 per month. It’s because there’s not enough inventory. If there’s a lot more inventory, then the correction the public desperately wants and the Government is working to obtain, will be achieved.”
“One of the examples that I always use is if you had a situation at home where your house burned down and you have to go to work the next day… what type of mental space would you be in to go to work the next day? It’s not an illness. But it’s certainly an appreciation that you’re not in the right mental space to actually produce at work. And so that’s what this is meant to capture,” said Mr Johnson. He added that the legislation sets a baseline
Mr Wilson, too, signalled that the Government needs to be cautious about imposing price control-type restrictions in the housing and rental markets because interfering with market forces will likely provoke unintended consequences such as landlords withdrawing from the market.
“I think that this issue is truly multi-faceted, and I’m not quite sure one thing, while it may be necessary, will solve it,” he added. “If we say a key part is rent control, we don’t want to stifle development. We want people to develop duplexes, triplexes, efficiencies added on to their homes, whatever it may be.
“We want to see them getting their desired rate of return so more persons do it and help to address this. There’s definitely a role for the Government to try and help, but I’m not sure one single thing can be done to solve such a significant problem. We need to look at various different things,” he added.
“Rent control may be one for a particular market or price range, but if it’s taken there has to be a conversation given that people have to pay real property tax, insurance etc so that people can make it.” Mr Wilson, acknowledging the need for more supply, said Bahamians will also have to become accustomed to building and living in condo and apartment-style developments especially given the finite availability of land on New Providence. He also expressed scepticism that the 25,000
FAA SAYS FLIGHT CUTS WILL STAY AT 6% BECAUSE MORE AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS ARE COMING TO WORK
By RIO YAMAT AP Airlines and Travel Writer
FLIGHT reductions at 40 major U.S. airports will remain at 6% instead of rising to 10% by the end of the week because more air traffic controllers are coming to work, officials said Wednesday. The announcement was made shortly before the U.S. House passed a bill to end the longest government shutdown in history, sending the measure to President Donald Trump for his signature. The flight cuts were implemented last week as more air traffic controllers were calling out of work,
citing stress and the need to take on second jobs — leaving more control towers and facilities short-staffed.
The Department of Transportation said the decision was made on recommendations from the Federal Aviation Administration's safety team, after a "rapid decline" in controller callouts. The 6% limit will stay in place while officials assess whether the air traffic system can safely return to normal operations, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said, although he did not provide a timeline Wednesday.
"If the FAA safety team determines the trend lines
entitlement, but employers are free to expand on it.
“Even, for example, we say we’ll give you three unpaid mental health work days, but if your employer wishes to give you three paid mental health work days, there’s nothing that stops them from doing that. There’s nothing that stops them from building on what’s already there,” said Mr Johnson.
“It’s important for you to know what’s already there and start to align your policies at work with what’s coming.”
“vacant” residential units identified in the Bahamas National Statistical Institute’s (BNSI) recently-published housing census are all available and not in use.
While market forces of supply and demand have driven Bahamian real estate prices higher, financial factors are also an impediment to Bahamian home ownership dreams. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier this year said property prices and rental rates outpaced growth in Bahamian wages seven-fold during the decade to 2022 to deepen the housing affordability crisis.
The Washington D.C. based Fund, in a paper accompanying its full Article IV report on this nation’s economy, said the “most vulnerable” persons in Bahamian society will have suffered most from real estate-related costs outstripping earnings and incomes. While property and rental prices were said to have increased by 14 percent between 2012 and 2022, in contrast per capita wages in this country rose by just 2 percent.
The challenges many Bahamians have in obtaining mortgage financing, with banks only willing to lend to the most qualified buyers, have also contributed to the housing shortage. Too many persons are living pay cheque to pay cheque, snd enjoy little to no savings, meaning they cannot qualify for financing let alone cover closing costs.
are moving in the right direction, we'll put forward a path to resume normal operations," Duffy said in a statement. Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said Wednesday that safety remains their top priority and that all decisions will be guided by data. Since the restrictions took effect last Friday, more than 10,100 flights have been canceled, according to the flight tracking site FlightAware. The agency originally planned to ramp up flight cuts from 4% to 10% at the 40 airports. The FAA said that worrisome safety data showed flight reductions were needed to ease pressure on the aviation system and help manage worsening staffing shortages at its air traffic control facilities as flight disruptions began to pile up.
MSNBC's name is being replaced, but its leaders insist that its mission will remain the same
By DAVID BAUDER AP Media Writer
ASKED what view-
ers should expect when television's MSNBC makes its corporate divorce from NBC News final this weekend, network president Rebecca Kutler points to a poster on the wall of a conference room at its new offices off Times Square. Its message reads: "Same Mission. New Name." "To me, that encapsulates exactly what we need to be saying," Kutler said. "Our
job in the next few weeks is to flood the zone ... and make sure they know the thing that they love will be the exact same thing on Nov. 15."
Saturday is when MSNBC officially becomes MS NOW, standing for My Source for News, Opinion and the World. That's the most visible manifestation of parent company Comcast's decision to spin off most of its cable networks into a new company known as Versant. It's tough enough when one partner tells another that
they're leaving for someone new. In this case, they're just leaving the partner behind; a cable television network is considered such a diminishing asset in today's media world that giant companies would rather be free of them. "A lot of us really didn't know what it meant," said prime-time host Jen Psaki, "and it didn't feel great initially." Left on its own, MS NOW is embracing the ethos of a startup, suggesting it will be better positioned to experiment without
ties to the more corporate NBC News. "Morning Joe" is starting its own newsletter. Podcast ideas are encouraged. The network is expanding live events, letting its television stars interact with the audience; Rachel Maddow has one in Chicago later this month. "I didn't see this as a divorce," said nighttime host Michael Steele. "I see this as the kid growing up and leaving home. We all know what that's like." As Kutler says, the network's focus on news and commentary with
a liberal perspective remains intact. So does its lineup of stars — Maddow, Nicolle Wallace, Ari Melber and the like. MS NOW has built its own reporting and support staff, and is moving into a new headquarters west of Broadway in Manhattan that is, not incidentally, the former longtime headquarters of The New York Times.
The new office, tricked out with the latest electronics, ends one geographical oddity: No longer are the political polar opposites MSNBC and Fox News
The MS NOW news staff has about three dozen reporters, among them Washington Post alums Jackie Alemany and Carol Leonnig. It has signed partnerships with Sky News for international reporting and AccuWeather for forecasting.
"Being divorced from NBC News gives it the opportunity to make deals on its own to supplement its cable existence," said longtime broadcast and cable news executive Kate O'Brian, who spent several years at ABC. They have a strong identity and a built-in audience of people who oppose President Donald Trump, she said.
California revokes 17,000 driver's licenses. But the state disputes it is over immigration concerns
By JOSH FUNK
AP Transportation Writer
CALIFORNIA plans to revoke 17,000 commercial driver's licenses given to immigrants after the Trump administration raised concerns about people in the country illegally receiving licenses to drive a semitruck or a bus. But Gov. Gavin Newsom said that isn't the reason.
Newsom said the revocations are for violations of state law, but he didn't provide specifics.
The Democratic governor's office said the unspecified violations were of state laws that were in place before the Republican Trump Administration recently tightened rules following a nationwide commercial driver's license audit launched after a driver in the country illegally made a U-turn and caused a crash in Florida that killed three people.
Fatal truck crashes in Texas and Alabama earlier this year also highlight questions about these licenses. A fiery California crash involving an illegal immigrant truck driver last month that killed three more people only added to the concerns.
California state transportation officials didn't immediately respond to questions seeking more details about why these licenses are being revoked.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said
Wednesday that California's action to revoke these licenses is an admission that the state had acted improperly even though the state had previously defended its licensing standards. Duffy previously imposed new restrictions on which immigrants can qualify for one of these commercial driver's licenses. He said earlier this fall that California and five other states had improperly issued commercial driver's licenses to noncitizens, but California is the only state Duffy took action against. He revoked
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that QUINTASHIA CHARITY PHILIPPE of #1 Reeves Street, Fox Hill, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November, 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that JASON JEAN of Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/ Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
“After weeks of claiming they did nothing wrong, Gavin Newsom and California have been caught red-handed. Now that we’ve exposed their lies, 17,000 illegally issued trucking licenses are being revoked.”
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy
$40 million in federal funding because he said California isn't enforcing English language requirements for truckers, and he has promised to take away another $160 million from
the state over these improperly issued licenses.
"After weeks of claiming they did nothing wrong, Gavin Newsom and California have been caught red-handed. Now that we've exposed their
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that BILLY DUBREUS of Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/ Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that SHAMA KIDD of P.O. Box S.B.52817 Tina Close Off Hamster Road, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/ Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
for a
lies, 17,000 illegally issued trucking licenses are being revoked," Duffy said. "This is just the tip of iceberg. My team will continue to force California to prove they have removed every illegal immigrant from behind the wheel of semitrucks and school buses."
Newsom's office said that every one of the drivers whose licenses are being revoked had valid work authorizations from the federal government.
"Once again, the Sean 'Road Rules' Duffy fails to share the truth — spreading easily disproven falsehoods in a sad and desperate attempt to please his dear leader," Newsom's spokesman Brandon Richards said.
The new rules for commercial driver's licenses that Duffy announced in September make getting commercial driver's licenses extremely hard for immigrants because only three specific classes of visa holders will be eligible. States will also have to verify an applicant's immigration status in a federal database. These licenses will be valid for up to one year unless the applicant's visa expires sooner than that.
Newsom's office said those new requirements were not in place at the time these 17,000 licenses were issued. But these drivers were given notices that their licenses will expire in 60 days.
Duffy said in September that investigators found that one quarter of the 145 licenses they reviewed in California shouldn't have been issued. He cited four California licenses that remained valid after the driver's work permit expired — sometimes years after.
Newsom's office said the state followed guidance it received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about issuing these licenses to noncitizens.
Under the new rules, only 10,000 of the 200,000 noncitizens who have commercial licenses would qualify for them, which would only be available to drivers who have an H-2a, H-2b or E-2 visa. H-2a is for temporary agricultural workers while H-2B is for temporary nonagricultural workers, and E-2 is for people who make substantial investments in a U.S. business. But the rules won't be enforced retroactively, so those 190,000 drivers will be allowed to keep their commercial licenses at least until they come up for renewal.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that MIGUEL CYRIL of Jubilee Gardens, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/ Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
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NOTICE is hereby given that MICHELLE JEAN-LOUIS of Andros Avenue, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/ Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 13th day of November 2025 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
CALIFORNIA Gov. Gavin Newsom, right, greets people as he arrives
news conference at the COP30 U.N. Climate Summit, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, in Belem, Brazil.
Photo:Fernando Llano/AP
SMALL GROCERS AND CONVENIENCE STORES FEEL AN IMPACT AS CUSTOMERS GO WITHOUT SNAP BENEFITS
By DEE-ANN DURBIN AP Business Writer
A LITTLE more than a year ago, Ryan Sprankle welcomed President Donald Trump to one of the three grocery stores his family owns near Pittsburgh. Trump was on the campaign trail; they talked about high grocery prices, and the Republican nominee picked up a bag of popcorn.
But these days, Sprankle would have a different message if Trump or any lawmakers visited his store. He wants them to know that delayed SNAP benefits during the government shutdown hurt his customers and his small, independent chain.
"You can't take away from the most needy people in the country. It's inhumane," Sprankle said. "It's a lack of empathy and it's on all their hands."
The Trump administration froze funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program at the end of October, impacting
food access for some 42 million Americans. On Monday, the U.S. Senate passed legislation that would reopen the federal government and replenish SNAP funds. The U.S. House is scheduled to vote on that bill Wednesday
NOTICE
Netzach Ltd.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
Registration number 212534 B (In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the above-named Company is in dissolution, commencing on the 11th day of November A.D. 2025.
Articles of Dissolution have been duly registered by the Registrar. The Liquidator is Mrs. Ylan Adler, whose address is Rua Rodolfo Albino 4, 701, Leblon, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 22450-010, Brazil. Any Persons having a Claim against the above-named Company are required on or before the 11th day of December A.D. 2025 to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator of the Company, or in default thereof they may be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such claim is proved.
Dated this 11th day of November A.D. 2025.
YLAN ADLER LIQUIDATOR
evening. But it's unclear when SNAP payments might resume if the government reopens. In 2024, SNAP recipients redeemed a little more than $96 billion in benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture,
which administers the program. The majority – 74% -- was spent at superstores and supermarkets, a category that includes big chains like Walmart and Kroger but also some independent stores like Sprankle's.
Legal Notice
International Business Companies Act (No. 45 of 2000)
TMR INVESTMENT LTD. (the “Company”) In Voluntary Liquidation
Notice is hereby given that, in accordance with Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, (No.45 of 2000), TMR INVESTMENT LTD. (the “Company”) is in Dissolution. The date of commencement of the Dissolution is the 11th November, 2025 Gustavo Dos Santos Vaz is the Liquidator and can be contacted at Avenida Bem-TeVi, 206, São Paulo – SP, 04524-030, Brazil. All persons having claims against the above-named Company are required to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator before the 11th December, 2025
Gustavo Dos Santos Vaz Liquidator
A CUSTOMER shops at Sprankle’s Neighborhood Market, Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, in Kittanning, Pa.
Around 14% was spent at smaller grocery and convenience stores, businesses often tucked into neighborhoods and more easily accessible to SNAP beneficiaries.
A stalled economic engine
Etharin Cousin, a former director of the United Nations World Food Program and founder of the nonprofit Food Systems for the Future, said the cutoff of SNAP benefits had immediate impacts on grocers and convenience stores of all sizes, most of which operate on slim profit margins of 1% to 2%.
"SNAP isn't just a social safety net for families. It's also a local economic engine," Cousin said. "SNAP benefits flow directly into neighborhoods, stores, regional distributors and community jobs."
Walmart declined to comment on the impact of the SNAP funding lapse but noted that it has been lowering prices and donating to local food banks. Kroger also declined to comment.
Shoppers not receiving their food benefits affects all retailers but becomes "a big problem more quickly" at small chains, Sprankle said. His Kittanning, Pennsylvania, store gets 25% of its revenue from SNAP, but customers who don't get government assistance also are worried about the shutdown, according to Sprankle. They're spending less, trading down to cheaper goods or heading to food banks, he said.
Sprankle said lower sales cut into the overtime he can offer to the chain's 140 employees. Many are worried about losing their jobs, he said.
"They have families to feed, they have kids to buy gifts for," he said. "If I have to sell my truck, we're going to give Christmas bonuses."
Liz Abunaw, the owner and operator of Forty Acres Fresh Market in Chicago, recently saw a customer putting back a full cart of groceries because she couldn't afford them without SNAP.
Abunaw opened the supermarket in September after years spent selling produce at pop-up markets and in delivery boxes. Only about 12% of Abunaw's revenue comes from SNAP benefits right now, she said. But without it -- or if SNAP recipients spend less money in her store -- it will slow Forty Acres' growth
and make it harder to pay the workers, suppliers and farmers who depend on her, she said.
"SNAP is currency. I get money I then use in this economy. It's not a food box," Abunaw said. "The economic impact of SNAP is larger than the dollars spent."
From neighborhood shops to food pantries
The suspended food aid also had an immediate impact on Kanbe's Markets, a nonprofit that stocks produce in coolers at 110 convenience stores around Kansas City, Missouri. Kanbe's distributes a mixture of donated food and food purchased from wholesalers to keep prices low, founder and CEO Maxfield Kaniger said.
Kanbe's also distributes free food to 50 food pantries and soup kitchens around the city.
Kaniger said some of the convenience stores he works with saw their sales drop 10% in the days after Nov. 1, when SNAP benefits weren't paid. At the same time, the food pantries he supplies asked for double or triple their usual orders. Because it's giving away more food than usual, Kanbe's has to spend more buying produce for the coolers it stocks. It's frustrating for Kaniger, who must make decisions quickly before food spoils.
"It should be enough that people are going without food. Period, end of sentence. People going without food is wrong," he said.
Babir Sultan sells berries, lemons, potatoes, bananas and other produce from Kanbe's at his four FavTrip convenience stores in the Kansas City area. His stores are in food deserts, far from other groceries or big retailers, he said, so it's important to him to stock fresh produce for those neighborhoods.
Sultan said foot traffic at his stores fell 8% to 10% in early November after SNAP funding ceased. He decided to offer $10 of free produce to SNAP beneficiaries but said he's also happy to help out other customers who might be struggling right now.
"If you're in need, just ask, we'll take care of you," Sultan said. "Everybody is affected whenever the customer is feeling the pinch."
Photo:Jessie Wardarski/AP