MONDAY TUESDAY i’m lovin’ it!
HIGH 84ºF LOW 71ºF
The Tribune Established 1903
24/7 BREAKING NEWS ON TRIBUNE242.COM
Biggest And Best!
VOLUME:116 No.74, APRIL 9TH, 2019
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1
WOMAN: MELANIA A TRUE INSPIRATION AT JUST 11
Runway blunder Pilot took off heading for passenger jet By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net A NEAR mid-air collision between two planes at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in September resulted in the suspension of a pilot and an air traffic controller, a new report by the Air Accident Investigation Department details. Two planes simultaneously departed the same runway around 7am on September 22, 2018. It is not clear how close the planes came to contact, but investigators said the seriousness of two planes heading towards one another from opposite ends of the same runway “cannot be understated”. One of the planes, a
Piper Aztec, C6-JEF, was operated and owned by a 53-year-old private operator. It was headed to the Berry Islands with just the pilot onboard. The other aircraft, a Western Air turbo-prob aircraft, C6-KID, was headed to Grand Bahama with 25 passengers. The chief cause of the near collision was the C6-JEF pilot’s defiance of an air traffic control order –– the pilot departed from the wrong runway and later told investigators he forgot to follow the correct instructions despite previously acknowledging them. The crew of the plane carrying 25 people did not realise another aircraft had taken off towards
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday said he is referring the matter concerning the Auditor General’s report into the National Sports Authority to the commissioner of police for “proper investigation”. “I would have spoken to the commissioner of police, I would have spoken to (the) attorney general and I would have spoken to the auditor general,” Dr Minnis
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation has agreed to let police investigate whether illegal listening devices have been used to spy on WSC employees, Labour Director John Pinder said yesterday. Attempting to stem industrial unrest at the corporation, Mr Pinder met officials of the Water & Sewerage Management Union (WSMU) and the Bahamas Utility Service and Allied Workers Union (BUSAWU) yesterday to discuss this and other issues that have frayed relations between workers and WSC executive chairman Adrian Gibson. The WSMU insists their offices have been bugged. Without providing details, the union claims some workers have been followed home. SEE PAGE FIVE
ONE of the planes was a Piper Aztec, C6-JEF, above, while the other aircraft was a Western Air turboprob aircraft, C6-KID, below, which was heading to Grand Bahama with 25 passengers on board.
SEE PAGE THREE
PM CONFIRMS SPORTS AUDIT GOES TO POLICE By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
‘WE’LL HELP COPS PROBE BUGGING ALLEGATION’
TWO YEARS FOR PART IN ATTACK ON BREANNA
By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net
said while on the sidelines of a loan signing ceremony. “And I informed the commissioner of police that I’m sending (a) report to him so that they can do a proper investigation and deal with the matter appropriately.” These comments came one day after Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest said the government is now considering whether to launch a forensic audit into the NSA for a legal basis to recover funds.
DAVANYA Lawes, one of five women and a minor charged in connection with teenage mother Breanna Mackey’s murder last year, has been sentenced to two years in prison as part of a plea deal. Lawes, who was previously charged with murder, received the sentence after pleading guilty to causing grievous harm to Mackey during the fatal January 25 incident. The time Lawes has already spent on remand, a
SEE PAGE SEVEN
SEE PAGE SEVEN
DAMES’ DELIGHT AT SUSPECTS ARREST By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
“IT’S a job well done,” National Security Minister Marvin Dames said of the police force’s arrest of two women in relation to a spate of child abduction incidents that tormented New Providence for weeks. Mr Dames made these comments on the sidelines of a loan signing ceremony yesterday, where he congratulated the police and
MINISTER MARVIN DAMES public for a job well done. He also praised the young children who assisted the
police in the investigation by providing details for a composite sketch. New Providence residents were terrorised by the string of abductions primarily targeting young boys that began February 16. The Royal Bahamas Police Force announced on Sunday that one suspect was arrested on Saturday night in the eastern district of New Providence. She is a 29-year-old woman who
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
SEE PAGE FIVE
FACE-TO-FACE KEVIN BARES HIS SOUL SO WE ALL CAN SEE SEE PAGE EIGHT
PAGE 2, Tuesday, April 9, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
‘SMITH’S POINT CAN BE AN ICONIC TOURIST DESTINATION’ By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
DEPUTY Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest said the government would offer what assistance it could to small business owners adversely affected by a road closure during construction on a seawall at Smith’s Point in Grand Bahama. Smith’s Point is known for its weekly Fish Fry where residents operate familyowned restaurants and bars. Many of the businesses were affected due to the closure of the road along the shoreline to accommodate the project, which
began in June 2016. Mr Turnquest admitted that the road closure caused significant challenges and hardship for the businesses in the area. “I acknowledge the hardship that the closure of this road caused... as they lament with me during this long period, they also understand that there was very limited assistance that government could have granted to them,” he said. Mr Turnquest, MP for East Grand Bahama who agitated for the seawall construction, said the site could be a “truly iconic tourism destination” that could reap significant economic benefits for the area’s residents.
He also said residents missed an opportunity when they did not embrace his vision for an expanded boardwalk. “I continue to lament Smith’s Point that you did not catch my vision for the expansion of this boardwalk,” he said during the opening of the $4.8m seawall and road repaving project by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. In the meantime, Mr Turnquest hopes that residents will soon see and support the reason behind his vision for the area. “I am hopeful that, as we go on, and this wall becomes open and businesses begin
to regain its footing, they (the residents) will embrace the rest of the community to take advantage of the economic opportunities that this beautiful seawall presents for this community,” he said. “There is enough business for all residents of Smith’s Point to be 100 percent employed in their community. Having respect to the residential component of the community, I will continue to work with you as we try to build on this vision together because in as much as we listened to you in your objection, maybe that is not the right word, but the delay in bringing (this) to fruition
. . .I am hopeful that one residents and community.” While residents of day you will see this street as a beautiful bustling mar- Smith’s Point are not in ketplace for artisans, crafts favour of the vision, Mr people, and for purveyors Turnquest said: “And so I of Bahamian crafts and leave it there as I will get talent, in addition to the some arrows and darts later food and beverage oppor- on. But nonetheless you tunity that exists with the elected me to speak the current businesses on the truth and to represent you, and that I will do without north side (of the street).” The MP stressed it is fear or favour. “And so again, I call for about economic empowerment of Bahamians. community; I call for full par“Infrastructure like this is ticipation by all stakeholders not just about the coastal in Smith’s Point to ensure all events, and that is very families and residents in this significant and important. area get an opportunity to be But we build these infra- empowered and have a piece structure in order to be of the pie here as a result combined with some form of this work that has been of economic payback to the done,” he said.
REPLICA LUCAYAN SETTLEMENT TO BE BUILT AT HERITAGE PARK BY RIEL MAJOR
WORK has already begun on a replica Lucayan settlement at Clifton Heritage Park.
OFFICIALS of the Clifton Heritage Authority announced yesterday the commissioning of a replica Lucayan settlement at Clifton Heritage Park. Shonel Ferguson, Fox Hill MP, said the team has wonderful plans on the way for the park. She said: “Clifton is one of those special places in New Providence. It’s one of those places where we had three separate ethnic groups live. The Lucayans were the first to arrive; in addition to the Lucayans who lived here at Clifton we also had the enslaved Africans and the Loyalists. “Unfortunately, there is nothing left from the Lucayans besides what archaeologists and historians can tell us. So we are excited, I’m excited and we can’t wait and so we have started the move and we have Dr Keegan to tell us that we are on the right track and to authenticate what we have done.” She added: “(When complete) you can expect to see their everyday life what they ate, how they planted things, how they cooked. It will be an experimental tour you become involved.” The settlement’s official groundbreaking is set for April 26. “Today is the commissioning of the work and to make sure we are doing it as the Lucayans did. We are excited, I’m excited and we can’t wait and so we have started the move and we have Dr Keegan to tell us that we are on the right track and to authenticate what we have done. “The first hut built is the
chief’s hut and then about four other huts will show where the other Lucayans lived other than the chief. We expect to have plenty other things but we aren’t going to tell you yet,” said Ms Ferguson, pictured below. Dr Willian Keegan, of the University of Florida, said he’s joyful about the completion of the first Lucayan hut and he believes the Lucayans would be proud. Dr Keegan said: “The construction is perfect and I know from our discussions the rest will also be particular to the Lucayans in a special way. The work we are doing today is showing Bahamians from the very beginning were unique people, a unique society — unlike the Arawaks and Tainos who lived in Cuba and Jamaica. The Lucayans lived in very small communities like people do on the Family Islands today.” Ms Ferguson said she is hopeful that in eight to 12 months their authority will have something to show. She said: “We have quite a way to go…we have statues to build, ovens and we will be just moving. But people can come and experience it as it is happening we don’t want them to wait for the finished product, we want them to keep coming. “Any tourist or Bahamian that wants to say that they helped build a Lucayan hut please come and be a part of the experience. We keep a record so your grandchildren and great grandchildren years from now will know that you contributed to helping the Lucayan village come to reality at Clifton.”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, PAGE 3
Runway blunder from page one
them until it had passed directly overhead. Even though the pilot of the C6-JEF failed to obey air traffic control orders, it is “still incumbent on all pilots entering an active runway to be cognisant and vigilant of traffic that may be crossing a runway, exiting a runway or in this case departing from a runway,” investigators emphasised. The AAID said: “The poor decision making exercised by the pilot of aircraft C6-JEF in not following directions by ATC, despite advising he understood the instructions given, has been determined as the probable cause of the near mid-air collision; also contributing to this near mid-air collision was the actions of the air traffic controller by losing visual on the aircraft he issued instructions to, and the failure on the part of the crew of C6-KID for not observing that another aircraft was on the same runway at the same time before commencing their take-off roll; the AAID believes this loss of visual contact on the aircraft by the controller may have been as a result of distraction due to the ongoing shift change at the time, and the fact that the controller was manning two separate radio frequencies during a time of high traffic volume while using
THE TWO planes involved were a Piper Aztec, C6-JEF, above, and, top, a Western Air turbo-prob aircraft, C6-KID.
a system that required additional training and frequent data input so that all systems can function properly with adequate current information. “The AAID also believes the failure to notice the aircraft by the crew of C6-KID may be the result of distractions or preoccupation with completing final checks while on the runway, before takeoff; pilot training, qualification and air traffic controller training, licensing and record keeping practices have been investigated and while not directly contributing to the
TWO SHOOTING INCIDENTS PUT 7 IN HOSPITAL POLICE are investigating two separate shooting incidents that occurred on New Providence yesterday leaving seven people in hospital. In the first incident, shortly after midnight, a group of people were standing outside a night club on Kemp Road when the occupants of a pink Nissan March opened fire on them. Six people were injured and taken to hospital where they are listed in stable condition. In the second incident, shortly before 1am, a man
was sitting in his vehicle in the parking lot of a nightclub on Tonique Williams Darling Highway, when he was approached by a man armed with a firearm who shot him. The victim drove himself to hospital where he is listed in stable condition. Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information that can assist with these investigations to contact the Central Detective Unit at 502-9991/2, Crime stoppers at 328-TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station.
incident, were noteworthy and required action.” The AAID found that the air traffic controller had an expired medical certificate and no ATC licence. It found that the Bahamas Air Navigation Services Division (BANSD) lacked a documented process to track the medical status of air traffic controllers, that no ATC personnel had required ATC licences and that several ATC personnel were operating without the required current medical certificates. On October 8, 2018, the BANSD formed a
three-member internal review board to review the incident. The board concluded the primary reason for the incident was the wrong action taken by the pilot of CJ-JEF, but it also concluded that the controller contributed to the incident. The board drafted 14 recommendations to address “systemic internal deficiencies” within the air traffic system, but those sensitive recommendations were not included in the AAID report. The AAID asked the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority to re-examine
the C6-JEF pilot “for his competence to hold a Bahamas issued pilot licence.” It also recommended that the pilot be re-assessed for medical fitness. The pilot was re-examined and while the results of his pilot test were satisfactory, his licence was suspended pending a medical assessment. There were issues concerning his medical capacity. The AAID also recommended that controllers face more frequent and structured refresher classes, noting the controller involved in the
incident underwent no refresher course since 2007. The controller was subsequently removed from active duty and underwent re-qualification training. He was then subjected to a period of supervised oversight. The AAID recommended that BANSD address its manpower shortage issues. By the time the investigation report was finalised, the BANSD had still not ensured ATC personnel had required licences, nor was any process of record keeping or tracking provided to address identified shortcomings, the AAID said.
PAGE 4, Tuesday, April 9, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
The Tribune Limited NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH,
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH,
jamaaltheartist@gmail.com
Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972 Contributing Editor 1972-1991
EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON,
C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B. Publisher/Editor 1972-
Published daily Monday to Friday
Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207 TELEPHONES
News & General Information Advertising Manager Circulation Department Nassau fax Freeport, Grand Bahama Freeport fax
(242) 322-1986 (242) 502-2394 (242) 502-2386 (242) 328-2398 (242)-352-6608 (242) 352-9348
WEBSITE, TWITTER & FACEBOOK www.tribune242.com
@tribune242
tribune news network
Lessons must be learned from this near collision THINGS could have been so much worse. Our report today on a near collision between two planes at Lynden Pindling International Airport in September makes for sobering reading. Two planes at opposite ends of the same runway started heading towards each other – and the pilot of one only knew about the other when it flew directly over his plane. With 25 people on one plane, and one on the other, it is horrific to think of what might have been. The report conducted by the Air Accident Investigation Department seems thorough and gives us many answers – but also raises some questions. The largest share of the blame falls on the shoulders of the pilot of the smaller plane. Having been given – and acknowledged - instructions by the air traffic control crew, he then defied those instructions by taking off on the wrong runway. When asked why, he said he “forgot” to follow the right instructions. As a result, he has had his licence reexamined, and it is presently suspended pending a medical assessment. Beyond the pilot’s fault, however, there are lessons we can learn over the system at air traffic control. The air traffic controller at the time was monitoring two separate radio frequencies and using a system that demanded extra training – all during a shift change. Beyond that, the controller’s paperwork was not in order – his medical certificate was expired and he had no air traffic control licence. He wasn’t alone in this – none of the air traffic controller staff had the required licence and with no system to monitor the medical status of controllers, several were operating without current certificates. Investigators wanted these issues fixed – quite rightly – and also want more frequent refresher training for controllers. The controller in the incident hadn’t had a refresher course since 2007. Eleven years without more training in a job as
crucial to public safety as an air traffic controller. Add to that a shortage of manpower and it’s perhaps no surprise that such a near collision took place. Indeed, it’s a minor miracle that it didn’t happen sooner – and that we aren’t talking about a greater disaster. We welcome the investigators’ report and its recommendations. Controllers have to be better managed in order to do their job, and for employers to be sure controllers are up to carrying out that job. They should be better trained, better monitored and better staffed. So now comes the next part of the task – will those in charge follow through on these recommendations? We have long heard about staff shortages among air traffic controllers – along with many other matters that have hindered travel with delays and diversions over the years. This report should be a wake-up call about the potentially deadly consequences of trying to run an air traffic control system with too few people and a weak management structure. It is time – beyond time – for the Ministry of Transport and Aviation to lead the way in calling for reform of this sector to tackle its failings. The cost in human lives would have been a tragedy – and beyond even that the damage it would have done to the reputation of The Bahamas, dependent as we are on tourism as our major industry, would have been catastrophic to our economy. It brings back thoughts of a horrific crash in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, in 1977, when two 747 passenger jets crashed on the runway killing 583 people, making it the deadliest accident in aviation history. That crash had a lasting affect on the industry, bringing changes to radio communications, crew training and more. Lessons were learned, in the most tragic of circumstances. It’s time for us to learn lessons of our own. Recommendations are one thing – without action to remedy these problems, we can only hope to avoid further near collisions. Or worse.
We must resurrect ourselves from this quagmire of mediocracy EDITOR, The Tribune I READ with a mixture of nostalgia, disappointment and actual hope that very significant reflection by Diane Phillis in Thursday, April 4 Tribune, entitled: STOP SELLING OURSELVES SO CHEAPLY. She spoke eloquently about the continuous degradation of Downtown Bay Street. Coming from Long Island as a boy of 14, I have seen over these 63 years as she so pointedly expressed, the rise and fall of the majesty of Bay Street. Arriving in Nassau at the tender age, when segregation was still alive and practised, especially on Bay Street, I was not able to venture into some of the highfalutin establishments, including the Savoy Cinema. Actually, coming from a mixed union, my mother a white woman and father a black man, I was
just a bit too dark brown chocolate colour to enter that cinema; my accommodation was at the over the hill cinema, where my white mother could accompany me. All that aside, as I grew older and segregation became a thing of the past, I was able to enjoy all the marvelous amenities of Downtown. I had places of splendor, magnificent night clubs, exquisite places to dine and dance until the wee hours of the morning. Bay Street was safe any hour of the day or night; well, so was the entire island of Nassau back then. Yes, we have indeed become a nation selling ourselves even below the level of cheapness. We seem to lack any sense of deserving power, and thus falling into the clutches of any demeaning element which rewards us with the cheapest trinkets in
exchanges for the wealth, dignity and golden heritage of our people. We continue to sell ourselves cheaply and that self-imposed debasing characteristic fosters and prospers the mediocracy at almost every echelon in this Nation. And now our once worldfamous Bay Street is fast becoming the epitome of our demise. Let’s then take a good and serious look at the timely piece by Diane Phillips, and see whether with a bit of brain and wisdom we could resurrect ourselves from this quagmire of mediocracy. The dignity of this so very special place in God’s earthly kingdom needs a little bit more of Solomon’s wise stewardship. JOSEPH DARVILLE, Freeport Grand Bahama April 5, 2019
Roll back on university fee increases EDITOR, The Tribune
AS always, I thank The Lord Jesus Christ and my biological parents, the late Reverend Doctor Ortland H. Bodie Sr. and my late mother, Annie Hepburn, for allowing and affording me the stellar opportunity for a good education from primary school (Our Lady’s Primary) straight up to university level (University of London). Later, I was articled in the law chambers of the Hon. J. Henry Bostwick, now a Queen’s Counsel and admitted to The Bahamas Bar. Of course, years later, due to an act of malfeasance and commingling of client’s funds, a no no for lawyers, ethically speaking, I was disbarred. The early years of the same were not easy. Everyone whom I once counted as “friends” and even “family” abandoned me. Mind you, when I was large and in charge of the then Criminal Defense Bar, everyone; his/her brother and sister used to hang around and suck on the big slackness and largess then freely available. They rapidly left when these things dried up. Despite this apparent set back, decades ago, the benefits of a good and marketable education have stood me well over this period right up to now. The disbarment was devastating and financially I was literally wiped out. The societal and peer ostracization was almost too much to deal with. When I finally came to grips with the realities of disbarment I had two stark choices: continue to wallow in a pity party or to get up off my knees; dust myself off and reinvent myself. Thanks be to The Lord Jesus Christ that I chose the latter. AFTER Super Value owner Rupert Roberts said he is opposed to joining the WTO and will never change his mind – even if studies determine “it’s the greatest thing for The Bahamas”, readers reacted on tribune242.com. Realitycheck242 had this to say: “Mr Roberts can see that his Super Value
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net It was precisely because of my extensive educational achievements and experiences at the Bar that I was able to move, almost seamlessly, into the talk show circuit and emerge as a much sought after Business and Management consultant. Today, without bragging, my ordinary income exceeds that of many current lawyers at the Bar. I am able to hold my own and continue to be a progressive member of The Bahamian society. This is what a good education is able to bring about for individuals. The FNM were all over the place during the years leading up to the general elections of May, 2017 talking about ‘free education’ for all qualified Bahamians from primary school straight up to college/university levels. This rang out with the unwashed masses and we bought the rhetoric, hook; line and sinker. While most of our high schools were basically “free” for a long time, no one expected that tuition levels at The University of The Bahamas would dramatically increase in the fall of 2019. Too many of our students, especially the males, are dropping out of high schools like flies. They leave with little, if any, marketable educational or vocational skills. Many of the females get impregnated for bums, for want of a better tern, and then quickly become saddled down with a whole heap of “unwanted” children. Many of the males who drop out
chain will go the way of City Markets as soon as the Bahamas joins the WTO. Market forces will prevail with the likes of US giants Publix and Kroger waiting
end up in crime and jail. Many of the females are obliged to turn to prostitution....which by the way, should become legal. The results of this? A dumb down society with little appreciation for educational and vocational skills. Those who fail to obtain a good education, unless God help them, become statistics within our society; victims of homicides or suicides; single parented mothers, in most cases, and residents at The Bahamas Correctional Centre. It is commonly accepted that educationally challenged individuals tend to resort to crime to eke out an income. National productivity is negatively impacted and personal responsibilities are transferred to the state at tax payers’ expense. I, hereby, invite the Most Hon. Prime Minister to roll these proposed fee increases back. The Minister of Education, a political lightweight and knuckle head, used to lead Y.E.A.S.T some years ago. He used to gently cuss out past administrations for cutting funding to that organisation. He, before his unexpected elevation to parliament and the gussiemae cabinet, used to opine that it would be better for the state to spend monies to “educate” students as opposed to spending an average of B$18,000 per year to house an inmate at Fox Hill. This still applies. To God then, in all things, be the glory. ORTLAND H. BODIE, Jr. Nassau April 7, 2019 in the wings.” DDK said: “WTO = VERY BAD IDEA. Bahamas is like a minnow waiting to be gobbled up by the sharks of the world.” BahamaPundit posted: “How will the removed duty be replaced? Either VAT will rise to 25% or income tax (more likely) will be implemented.”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, PAGE 5
WSC WILL HELP POLICE PROBE BUGGING ALLEGATIONS from page one
Mr Pinder said: “The corporation has agreed for the police to come and do their investigation to see if there are any hidden devices. We only recommended that the union be made aware of it so they can see the police in action really doing what they requested. They gave us no reason as to why they came up with such allegation. They never gave any reason as to why they claim to be followed. I told them that is something they should take to the police. That’s a serious indictment.” According to Mr Pinder, the WSMU believes illegal surveillance devices have been installed within the corporation’s permanent infrastructure, a claim the
labour director said is almost “impossible to be true.” Nonetheless, Mr Pinder admitted it is concerning that relationships at the corporation have frayed to the point that some of WSC’s most educated staff are paranoid about being followed home and spied upon. “I can only say I think there is a serious need for a better relationship between the union president and the management of the Water and Sewerage,” he said. “There is a need for more respect for each side and I believe some of these things would go away. The respect isn’t there. I said in the meeting they have to understand it isn’t business as usual. “Apparently, what one administration allowed them to get away with, this administration said they wouldn’t allow them to
abuse any property or essence of the corporation.” Last week, BUSAWU members demonstrated outside the corporation’s headquarters, protesting the suspension of two people suspected of running car businesses from the corporation’s premises. One of the workers was suspended with pay while his matter is investigated. WSC officials requested information from him, prolonging their investigation for at least five further days. Officials suspect the man has been running a car rental operation on WSC premises. “He had two or three cars on the grounds,” Mr Pinder said. “Apparently one was there for a very long time, almost a year or something. He said a rental car had broken down, then a person brought him another rental car. They want proof of what he’s
saying and they gave him until Wednesday to bring that information. Their concern is why you have two rental cars when you have your own private car you bringing to work?” Another man who was suspended for five days saw that suspension reduced to two days. The man claimed he left a car on WSC grounds after having a problem with the battery. “There is evidence to suggest otherwise,” Mr Pinder said. “He drove to work that day in his private car. He took another car off the dock when the car came in. He parked it on the premises and went to finish his work. When he came back he said he left it there until Monday because the car battery was dead. They suspect that he is a person who imports vehicles for
sale or for people and is using the premises to store them. They have footage that suggest this has been going on at the corporation. In the past, the corporation didn’t have any issue with persons doing this kind of thing and now that they’ve decided to tighten up. The union is of the view that there is no policy as to how many vehicles one can bring and abuse of the corporation’s property had to do with equipment and not the physical premises.” Mr Pinder said workers who protested last week will receive a two-day pay cut. As Mr Pinder finished his meeting with union officials, WSC executive chairman Mr Gibson announced a sweeping plan to digitise WSC services beginning this month.
A job well done The Tribune A1MAIN
MONDAY i’m lovin’ it!
HIGH 83ºF LOW 72ºF
Established 1903
24/7 BREAKING NEWS ON TRIBUNE242.COM
Biggest And Best!
VOLUME:116 No.73, APRIL 8TH, 2019
from page one
police suspect is allegedly responsible for four of the abductions. The second suspect is 35-years-old and is believed to have been an accomplice in one of the abductions. She was arrested in Eleuthera. When asked for a response to these arrests, Mr Dames told reporters: “It’s a job well done. I have the utmost confidence in the commissioner of police and his team and if you can recall, outside of Parliament last week I said the police were closing in on this matter. “This is a clear example of where we’re trying to take the (RBPF) and all of our law enforcement agencies, that we have the confidence in the men and women in these agencies to do their jobs and to do it well. And you’re seeing that. “And kudos goes out to the members of the (RBPF) as well as all of those persons who would have assisted some way, including the community, in bringing this matter to a head. “I mean when you look at these young kids who were able to sit with the police and give the police a good visual of who this individual is and the police were able to capture that in composite, it’s amazing. And it speaks to the resilience of these young children and I’m so proud of them that they were able to do that. “But yes, we’re grateful... let’s just see where the investigation goes.” On Sunday, police noted
16
TH
SPORTS: HIELD MATCHES NBA THREE-POINT RECORD PAGES SAN NEE TO HO
Child abductions: Two women held
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames and, inset top right, how The Tribune reported the arrests yesterday.
By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
TWO women are in police custody in relation to four incidents of child abduction, Chief Superintendent Solomon Cash said yesterday. The main suspect - a 29-year-old woman who police suspect is allegedly responsible for four of the abductions - was arrested late on Saturday at an address in eastern New Providence. The second suspect, a 35-year-old woman, is believed to have been an accomplice in one of the abductions. She was arrested in Eleuthera. CSP Cash told The Tribune the women are Bahamian nationals “as far as (police) know”. He
added police are not currently looking for any other suspects in relation to these matters. These arrests came in the wake of an alleged abduction attempt of an 11-year-old boy last Tuesday. The boy’s mother, who spoke to The Tribune on the condition of anonymity, said her son was making his way home from school when he was approached by a woman in a silver coloured car parked at a Shell gas station. The woman beckoned to the child, and reportedly asked him if he wanted a pair of sunglasses. Fortunately, her son was able to escape the woman’s clutches. CSP Cash did not confirm that particular matter to
By NE Tribun nhartn
THE turn to ships ( its “$5 healthc needs i way” t Dr ter of unfund build totalle the ne Act to ernme meant money He neede balanc by rep tion o that B spend Florid
boys were walking on Kool Acres Road in eastern NewSUP Providence when “theyBOS were picked up by a femaleAMEN SPORTS AUDITwho - NOW was the lone occupant” RECOVER THE of MONEY a dark coloured vehicle, police said. The two eight-year-olds THE EYES were initially dropped off HAVEinITthe by a Haitian village vicinity of Seabreeze and POLICE HANDED WATER ‘SABOTAGE’ FILM Joe Farrington Road. The ten-year-old was dropped off later by the cityIN dump. The day before, March 6, eight-year-old Tyvon Deveaux was abducted by a lone female driver in a silver-coloured Japanesemodel vehicle. He was later dropped off by the entrance to the dump on Tonique Williams Darling Highway. On February 16, threeyear-old Shavar Bain was abducted from outside his home and then left frightened and alone outside a Fox Hill washhouse several hours later, sparking a manhunt for two women believed to be the abductors. On March 3, an eightyear-old girl was abducted from her home by an alleged male perpetrator. She was discovered walking a 10-year-old boy as well, in the area of Woodlawn but the second child walked Gardens a short time after the abduction by a passeraway. On March 7, shortly by and taken to the Wulff before 4pm, three boys Road Police Station. Police are still investigatwere taken: two eight-yearing that matter. olds and a ten-year-old. The
FULL S
SEE PAGE THREE
By NE Tribun nhartn
By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
THE government will now consider whether to launch a forensic audit into the National Sports Authority for legal basis to recover funds, Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest said yesterday. His comments come as former Sports Minister Dr Danny Johnson defended the ministry’s accomplishments in a letter to the editor, stating he took “full and unmitigated” responsibility for the conduct of affairs, administration and
protocols of the Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture during his tenure. Dr Johnson underscored his pride in his ministry’s creation and development of a “Sports in Paradise” brand that staged over 17 international events locally, and made reference to a “petty, jaundiced, unprincipled, evil and destructive agenda”. “We are proud of the long walk we took to the further development of this economic tier in sports and entertainment,” Dr Johnson wrote. SEE PAGE EIGHT
FOUR-year-old Khamyah Poitier enjoys all the fun of the Red Cross fair at Clifford Park yesterday. More pictures - Page 2 Photo: Terrel W Carey Sr/Tribune Staff
By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
THE Water and Sewerage Corporation has handed video footage to police relating to the spate of water supply shut offs in New Providence last week along with a list of all staff who were in possession of valve keys. Yesterday, a reliable source confirmed to The Tribune the footage depicts both vehicles and certain
DWAYNE WOODS
suspected WSC personnel who “might be known to the public” engaging in
“questionable activity”. The recordings are WSC video footage as well as CCTV footage from buildings in areas that were impacted. The footage shows a truck “known to the corporation”, as well as other vehicles, the source said. In a statement released on Friday, WSC also said it would be “giving the police a list of all persons who were in possession of
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
DAMES DELIGHTED BY THE POLICE WORK WHICH HAS LED TO TWO ARRESTS REGARDING CHILD ABDUCTION they suspect the individuals in custody can help their investigations into all but two of the abductions — one of which was a domestic matter and has since been closed. The other, involving
a young girl in Culmersville, is still under investigation. Mr Dames declined to comment on that matter. According to police, on March 29, shortly after 9pm, eight-year-old Sachin
Henry was lured from his home on Fox Hill Road south into a silver-coloured car and later dropped off near the New Providence Landfill. Officers noted the woman also tried to lure
SEE PAGE FIVE
SUP says h ing the change studie the gr Baham Rup World memb the B especi physic that it for all local sumer govern big pu mian forwar access FULL S
FRED HAV WITH
PAGE 6, Tuesday, April 9, 2019 By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday restated his administration’s commitment to “correct” issues regarding gender inequality in the transference of citizenship, as promised in 2017. He did not directly address observations the current draft Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Bill, 2018 does not close gaps between men and women on nationality matters, but instead offered that public consultation on the bill was essential. “I think in a modern and transparent society it’s essential that the citizens have their input because at the end of it, you’ll have less friction in passing such a legislation,” he told reporters on the sidelines of an IDB loan signing. “We’re looking at all the entities,” he said when asked about gender equality, “but we know what had happened in the referendum. I think we need to correct those issues and those are matters we have said, we will look at, we will correct, and we made the commitment we will do it.” Last week, Progressive Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell said the Minnis administration’s proposed Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Bill does not change how Bahamian men and women transfer citizenship to their children.
THE TRIBUNE
PM commits to correct gender inequality issues The Minnis administration in 2017 promised to amend the Bahamas Nationality Act to redress the constitution’s citizenship inequities –– giving Bahamian women the right to automatically transfer citizenship to their children regardless of where their child is born. Last week Mr Mitchell, former minister of immigration, said nothing in the draft bill appears to change the status quo on how citizenship is granted. Meanwhile, Rights Bahamas president Stephanie St Fleur yesterday suggested citizenship applicants should be compensated by the Department of Immigration for missing documents or lost files as she amps up efforts to organise and educate “citizens-in-waiting”. She reserved full comment on the draft bill as she was part of a stakeholder group reviewing the document, however, she underscored a staggering lack of accountability on the part of officials. The immigration backlog drive was a personal initiative the activist started in
2014, when undocumented migrant children were unable to access public schools due to the advent of the belonger’s permit policy. At the time, she issued a call for parents to contact her for assistance in writing followup letters to the Department of Immigration for applicants who had seemingly fallen through the cracks. “I have some people who have applied from 2005,” she said, “probably even earlier than that, who haven’t received any word or information from the Immigration Department. We’re really thoroughly looking at the new bill, and my concern is they want to propose it but what about people who applied? “Because there was a list that came out that people needed to come in whose documents were lost or files not completed, but when I applied at (Department of) Immigration when I was 18 for citizenship, they gave me a receipt. “That receipt confirmed that everything they asked of me I presented to them,
so those people holding those receipts means that immigration has their file and everything needed is there. “So what is the compensation to people for their negligence? To get a birth certificate alone is expensive and then you have some people, their parents died. So it’s hard and they cant travel to Haiti to get the documents they need, so why are they making them responsible for their negligence?” Ms St Fleur said her team is now focused on providing education and support to children aged 16 to 19, who have a right to apply for citizenship. “We want them to start early,” she continued, “certain documents we know they cant get. We’re targeting the children because they need to educate their parents. Sometimes a lot of people go to the department and because of the language barrier there are so many errors. We’re doing a drive not just for them to apply early but for certain documents that don’t expire they can start working on it now.”
licence, et cetera.” He noted this will be used instead of persons having to produce documents such as birth or PRIME Minister Dr marriage certificates. Hubert Minnis said yesHe added once the terday his government is pilot programme is fully currently designing a pilot implemented, Bahamians programme to digitally con- should be able to “fully and nect government agencies securely” apply online for such as the Passport Office these services. and Road Traffic Depart“Yes, that means no more ment - a process that would Passport Office lines for allow Bahamians to fully renewals,” Dr Minnis said, apply online for these ser- to applause. vices without physically Dr Minnis made these providing documents. remarks yesterday while Dr Minnis also said citi- speaking at the signing zens will be able to carry ceremony for two Interone card which will likely American Development be a “modified version” Bank (IDB) loans — the of the National Insurance “Government Digital TransBoard card, which will be formation to Strengthen “an electronic identifica- Competitiveness” and “The tion with a digital signature, Contingent Loan for Natuinstead of passport, drivers’ ral Disasters”.
When asked if there is a timeline for when this digital revolution will occur, Dr Minnis told reporters: “No, we would work as aggressively as possible, because it’s demoralising when one sees the amount of individuals who are waiting in long lines to obtain their passports. So that must be placed as a priority. “It’s the government’s responsibility is to improve the quality of life for its citizens. So that will be a priority. “I couldn’t give you a specific time. But what I can say, it will be done as fast and quickly as possible.” During his remarks, Dr Minnis also described a second pilot project for e-Cabinet that will increase government efficiency.
He added the government will be employing a “once only” policy that means when one government agency owns or has information, every other agency will be prohibited from requesting that document. “The loans are designed to modernise and digitise public services and government, and provide contingency funds in the aftermath of natural disasters,” Dr Minnis said. “Government services will be made easily available online to the residents of all of our major islands,” he continued, especially noting Grand Bahama must be prepared for the “dynamic, new economy” developing there. Speaking about the $30m
PUBLIC consultation on the bill was essential, says Dr Minnis
DIGITAL PILOT PROGRAMME TO CONNECT AGENCIES By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
first loan, Dr Minnis said: “Every ministry and department… must identify where there is inefficiency in its government bureaucracy and significantly improve processes to deliver services with much greater efficiency. “This programme will foster competitiveness in the Bahamas by reducing the time and cost of conducting business with government. “Government procedures will be streamlined and placed online. There will be greater use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by the public service sector and by the public. There will be increased transparency of government activities as well as the strengthening of auditing and control mechanisms.” Noting government agencies still do not digitally talk to each other, Dr Minnis said: “We will employ a ‘once only’ policy so that when one government agency owns or has a document or a bit of data every other agency will be prohibited from requesting the very same document again and again and again. This is ridiculous and unfair. The new system will be designed for interoperability in which requisite data will be verified by the system. “No longer will the Passport Office or the Ministry of the Public Service ask you for your birth certificate or marriage certificate. Citizens and residents will only need to carry one card which will likely be a modified version of the NIB card. This will be an electronic identification with a digital signature, instead of passport, drivers’ licence, etc. “Online services will be accessed through a single window facility at international standards for infrastructure and applications, as well as with security and service delivery at the forefront.” He also assured the public that cyber security also will be upgraded. “All government agencies, utilities, quasigovernment agencies and even banks on the platform, will be required to adhere to the standards that will be developed. “I am pleased that the road to our digital transformation has already begun,” he continued. “We are currently designing a pilot which will involve renewals of passports and driver’s licences, and the verification of birth certificates, affidavits and police certificates. The agencies to be involved in this pilot are the Passport Office, the Road Traffic Department, the Royal Bahamas Police
Force, the Registrar General’s Department and the National Insurance Board. “The pilot will be the first to digitally connect these ministries and the information will be shared digitally. Once fully implemented Bahamians should be able to fully and securely apply online for these services without physically providing birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police certificates. Yes, that means no more Passport Office lines for renewals!” Regarding the e-Cabinet second pilot, Dr Minnis said it will cause Cabinet memoranda and decisions to be paperless. “Our decisions and the implementation of those decisions should be faster and more efficient,” he added. Dr Minnis also noted the recent launch of the Prime Minister’s Stakeholders Roundtable, which is made up of public and private sector partners, to help shape, monitor, and guide this transformation programme. “We are also exploring a consultancy within the region for the development of our national information and communications technology strategy and digital agenda. “We will need to source new talent in the public service, engage in public awareness and education,” he continued, calling for public officers to actively participate in the process. Regarding the second loan, Dr Minnis noted the damage wrought by Hurricanes Joaquin, Matthew, and Irma to the Bahamas were approximately $828 million. “The CCL is a line of credit that is on standby in the event that we are hit by a hurricane and require additional funds to recover. “By design and by government policy, these funds can only be accessed in response to natural disasters. Any prudent government would do what we are doing, that is, to have the ability to access funding if and when needed. “This approach is consistent with developing an effective financial strategy to deal with disaster preparedness. It includes using the proceeds of the extinguished dormant accounts to set up an independently managed disaster relief fund. It also includes signing up once again for the regional insurance fund, the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF), in order to provide coverage for public infrastructure in the event of catastrophic damages.” The credit line facility provides access to $100 million.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, PAGE 7
SPORTS AUDIT TO GO TO POLICE, CONFIRMS MINNIS
from page one
Meanwhile yesterday, Progressive Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell hit back at Mr Turnquest in a statement, saying the paperwork Auditor General Terrance Bastian “claims” is missing is “right there”. “Almost two years into their administration, the (Free National Movement) FNM is still not governing but wasting time chasing after their tails,” Mr Mitchell said. “If anyone had any doubt that the political fix was in when the auditor general wrote the report that seemed to suggest missing money at the National Sports Authority, the
announcement by (Mr Turnquest) that he is considering a forensic audit to find the legal basis to recover the monies paid confirms that the fix is in. “The former Sports Minister Dr Danny Johnson has laid out chapter and verse the value for money that the government obtained during his time as minister. It was just as we predicted. “The paperwork that the auditor general claims cannot be found is right there. The FNM has control of all of the government’s files, not the PLP.” Mr Mitchell also said what is “really operating here” is a “continued campaign of denigrating the PLP and its work” by the FNM leading up to the next general election.
“The PLP has evidence of past audits where claims have been made about one thing or the next with regard to expenditure under the governance of the PLP, only to find that the premise on which the accusations were made was entirely false,” Mr Mitchell continued. “We have no doubt that this is the same scenario at work here, again. An auditor can only speak to what they find on the day they showed up for the audit.” Last week it was reported that during his audit of the NSA, Mr Bastian found that contracts for work issued by the entity were not transparent and its financial allocation from the government increased by more than $3.3m in the
fiscal year containing the May 2017 general election. Mr Bastian’s report further uncovered how one company received more than $1m in taxpayer funds, but did not complete any of ten deliverables promised to the NSA. While the report did not name any of the companies to which it referred, research by Tribune Business reveals that the one which received the $1m despite not performing its global sporting and entertainment giant, Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG). AEG’s management and consultancy deal with the NSA was much-touted by former Prime Minister Perry Christie, who even suggested the group could bring the Los Angeles Lakers
and other sporting teams in which it has an ownership stake to The Bahamas, Tribune Business reported. The auditor general’s report also concluded NSA’s accounting practices did not fully comply with regulations and weaknesses were apparent. In reviewing the engagement of certain employees – some without the necessary qualifications - how they were paid and the “unusual” handling of petty cash, Mr Bastian said the NSA did not adhere to the Financial Administration and Audit Act 2010, Financial Regulations 1975 and the Sports Authority Act 2011. Irregularities regarding their terms of work were revealed in the audit report,
tabled in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, which covered the operations of the authority from July 2011 to December 2017. Over the weekend, Dr Johnson also defended his ministry’s accomplishments in a letter to the editor, stating he took “full and unmitigated” responsibility for the conduct of affairs, administration and protocols of the Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture during his tenure. The former sports minister added he was not surprised by the “recent back jumping exercise of others to pay homage and obedience to their political masters,” and appealed for young Bahamians to be given a chance to be the best in the sporting industry.
Two years in jail for her part in Breanna killing from page one year and some four months, will be factored into her prison sentence. She is also ordered to perform community service and undergo counselling inclusive of anger management classes. Lawes is the third person to be sentenced in connection with Mackey’s murder. Last week, Thea Williams was sentenced to 25 years in prison by Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson for stabbing Mackey to death last year because she broke her friend’s cellphone. Justice Grant-Thompson said the time Williams has spent on remand, a year and some four months, would be deducted from the quarter-century sentence, in pursuance of the plea agreement her attorney reached with the Crown. Williams is further ordered to undergo one year of counselling, inclusive of anger management lessons, and another year of probation upon completion of her sentence. She will be 46-years-old by the time that comes around. Additionally, an 18-yearold woman whose name has been withheld because she was charged as a minor, was sentenced to 12 years in prison in connection with Mackey’s death.
DAVANYA Lawes pictured at an earlier hearing. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff She is also ordered to serve one year’s probation after completing her sentence. Prior to receiving her sentence, and as part of
a plea deal, she pleaded not guilty to murdering Mackey, but guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. Her sentence is
PILOT FINED FOR FAILING TO DECLARE HE HAD MORE THAN $10,000 IN CASH
By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net
A 25-YEAR-OLD commercial pilot was fined $1,000 for failing to declare that he had just over $10,000 in cash when he flew into the country from Haiti two months ago. The sum was declared to be the proceeds of criminal conduct. Stephen Hanna was fined for failing to inform customs officials that he brought in only $19 more than the maximum $10,000 allowed in cash when he touched down in Exuma on February 1. Hanna, previously wanted by the police, also lost the $10,019 he acquired sometime between January 31 and February 1, which he admitted represented the proceeds of criminal conduct. Failure to pay his fines would result in a three month custodial sentence. Prior to being fined, Hanna had pleaded guilty to one count each of failing to declare to a Bahamas customs officer; acquisition of the proceeds of criminal conduct and possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. The latter count was disregarded, however, as
Acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain found it to be duplicitous with regards to the acquisition charge. According to a summary of the facts read by the police prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent Clifford Daxon, on February 1 about 3.50pm, two officers stationed in Bimini went to the Bimini International Airport, where they observed a certain plane. They approached the pilot and informed him of their suspicions that he was in violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act. The officers searched the plane and found nothing related to dangerous drugs. However, they discovered some $10,019 on the pilot. Further inquiries revealed that Hanna came into The Bahamas from Haiti via Exuma. At that time, Hanna had failed to declare to the customs officer that he was bringing more than $10,000 into the country, which he was required by law to do. Hanna and arrested, and later questioned on the funds that were found in his possession. In response, he said he got the monies from someone while in Haiti for a flight, as he was bringing someone into The
Bahamas. Hanna was subsequently released. However, on April 3, he was taken back into custody and further interrogated about the funds, but could not provide a satisfactory explanation, and neither could he provide any receipts to clarify how he obtained the money. After the facts were read off, Acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Swain noted than as a commercial pilot, he should be well versed with the relevant law, and questioned why he did not make the declaration. Hanna responded by saying he was not aware he was $19 over the limit when he was initially arrested, as he hadn’t done any paperwork or written up any receipts up to that point. However, the senior magistrate said he was “careless and/or reckless” for not doing so. She subsequently fined him $500 apiece on counts one and two, before dropping the third count. The $10,019 was ordered confiscated and forfeited to the Crown. A conviction was recorded, something Hanna said would probably have a negative impact on him keeping and/or renewing his pilot’s licence.
non-inclusive of any further time deductions. The judge further noted she would ask the commissioner to ensure both
women have access to educational opportunities so as to allow them both to be in a position to make a positive contribution to society
once they are finished serving their sentences. The trial for others charged in the matter is set for October, The Tribune understands. Mackey, a mother of one, was stabbed to death on January 25, 2018, the day after celebrating her 19th birthday. According to the facts previously read off by prosecutor Cephia PinderMoss, sometime around 5.48pm on the date in question, police control room was contacted about reports that a female was stabbed about the body in the Key West Street area off Cordeaux Avenue. A crew of police officers was consequently dispatched to investigate. Upon their arrival, a female who was identified as the victim’s sister, Latisha Woodside, directed officers to a brown and white two-story apartment complex situated on the eastern side of Key West Street. On the porch, just in front of door number 9, officers discovered a semi-conscious female lying face down suffering from four stab wounds to the upper back and two stab wounds to the right arm. The woman, later revealed to be Mackey, was subsequently transported to the Princess Margaret Hospital where she died around 8.28pm.
PAGE 8, Tuesday, April 9, 2019
T
HE poem on the right is one in a series about to be released in a newly-published book Revelations of a Silent Heart by author Kevin Cartwright. I have had a sneak peek at the book and I find the poems so heartfelt, so sincere and very touching. This is his literary debut, which he describes as “a brave compilation of various moods of poetry and prose that speak about life, love, risks and the courage to face head on whatever life throws at him”. As he prepares to release his book this month, a statement on Revelations of a Silent Heart reads: “Kevin bares his soul, allowing readers to meander through its corridors and into the hallowed chambers of his heart and mind. Once there, readers are invited to linger for just a moment before plunging into the depth of human emotions, such as love, joy, sadness, surprise and contempt. It is a provocative and stimulating read. No doubt, it is an honest, daring and profoundly personal volume that is well worth reading.” Kevin has not allowed his disability (blindness) or disappointments to define him. Instead, like the proverbial phoenix rising from the ashes, he embraced all the good and not-so-good things that life has dealt him, and he has allowed them to become stepping stones to a fuller, richer existence. There are 75 poems laid out in the book, which is divided into three sections – Honeysweet Passions of Love; Bitter-sweet potions of heartbreak; and Refreshing Cocktails of Love, Hope and Encouragement. “The writer has a unique writing style, which allowed him to transfer his thoughts into readable poems where one can gain comfort,” says Maria Augusta Deleveaux, former Principal of the Erin H Gilmore School for the Blind who wrote the foreword of the book. “Throughout the book,” she says, “There are clear evidences of Mr Kevin E Cartwright’s gifts as an English language scholar and teacher. “As the young and old alike search for love, they should read this volume of poems, which will be beneficial to their selective choice of a mate. I am pleased that this book of love poems gives life, enthusiasm and determination to those who read it, while telling the stories of each as you perceive it.” Kevin has served as a teacher at Erin H Gilmore for nearly ten years now, where he teaches the Language Arts curriculum, Braille and Assistive Technologies. He returned home to serve children who faced the same plight as himself after graduating from West Virginia State University with a Bachelor’s degree in English Language,
THE TRIBUNE
GIVE ME YOUR EYES TO SEE I’ve seen the beauty of the world before, But never through your eyes. God gave me the gift of sight that stayed for just a moment, But like a flash of lightning midnight came, Forever darkening my sunlit skies. Even though my world had changed, And for a time things were strange, My childhood innocence remained an inner source of peace. Blindness stole my sight in the dead of the night! What a cold and callous thief! I’ve never wanted to see the world through another’s eyes Until you came along. You awoke a dormant part of my heart that was frozen by a lonely winter’s song. I never desired to know what golden sunsets and colourful rainbows looked like Until you passed my way, Not to mention white doves and pink flamingoes, All of which God spoke into existence in one day. Whenever I’m with you, My world becomes more clear. Although I cannot behold the way you look at me. It’s so hard to resist not feeling your amorous stare. Paint for me a mental image of your face; Give me vivid descriptions of your sensuous beauty— Your skin, so soft, so fair. Be my eyes, my SWEET LOVER, So I can see you, The one whom I love dear.
Kevin bares his soul in language which helps us all to see KEVIN Cartwright with his son Kylan
minoring in Literature and an Associate’s degree in General Education. While in college, Kevin had a guide dog named Quella, a yellow Labrador retriever who assisted him with his functional independence during travel. He received her from a training school called The Seeing Eye in Morris Town, New Jersey. Kevin says Quella made his life so much easier. The Persons with Disabilities Act was not passed yet and Kevin says he found some resistance to service animals. Today, with the Act on the books, Kevin believes the time is right for more service animals to assist those with disabilities in The Bahamas. Quella came home with Kevin during university breaks but he was not able to bring her home upon graduation: “Because of the climate in the country at the time, I retired her and a professor of mine assisted me with finding a family in the US; and they took her and kept her as a pet because I couldn’t bring
her home and utilise her the way I wanted.” Forty-two year-old Kevin was born with glaucoma and although there were several successful surgeries performed on him at birth, he lost his eyesight completely at the age of eight. He said that at the time, technology had not advanced in medicine to the point where it is today, and children in his situation now have a better chance for sight preservation as there is “so much more that can be done”. He is optimistic about the chances for his own son, seven-year-old Kylan. He was born with bilateral cataracts (meaning it affects both eyes) as well as strabismus (cross eye) and he underwent cataract removal surgery at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Florida when he was ninemonths-old. Kylan has to do routine follow-ups three times per year. He is visually impaired but he can see, due to the constant medical care his parents do their best to ensure he
receives. He attends Erin H Gilmore where his father teaches. People are usually in amazement when they see Kylan with his father, Kevin and mother, Tonia Gibson. Both his parents are blind, and so he has become their eyes, helping them when shopping and for other occasions, making life a bit easier for his parents. “He is an intelligent, helpful, active, caring, loving and sensitive child,” said Kevin. “He is also a
typical normal child who loves to play. We give him that freedom to be a child. Not because he provides us with visual assistance do we limit him from being a child and enjoying his childhood.” The proceeds from the sale of Kevin’s book will be used to assist him with the costly tri-annual examinations his son must have. The family does receive some assistance from the Wonder Fund, a US-based charity; however, Kevin says the costs are still high including airfare and accommodations, and other medical funds not covered by the charity. This July 17-26, Kylan travel to Florida to undergo EUA – examination under anaesthesia. Doctors want to examine his eye movements while asleep. He will be seen by a paediatric retina specialist and a vision development specialist for his follow ups. He will also be fitted for a new pair of glasses during the trip. Kevin says estimated costs for the trip and procedures are about $12,000. Kevin considers himself an advocate for persons with disabilities. He is a member of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, which ensures that persons with disabilities are not discriminated against. The commission also enforces regulations laid out in the Disabilities Act. He is also a member of the Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired (BABVI). “All persons with disabilities should
have the same considerations and opportunities as those afforded their ablebodied counterparts,” he said. “I believe that all persons should be treated with dignity and respect. I am also convinced that all young men need exemplary role models to help shape and mould them into men of integrity, law-abiding citizens, future leaders and nation builders.” Kevin is seeking public support for his book, which will be released and available in local book stores this month. Special thanks to the Cable Cares foundation, Bamboo Shack, Fidelity Bank, the President of West Virginia State University Dr. Anthony Jenkins, and Dr. Carlos Thomas, family and friends for helping Kevin’s book project become a reality. A book release event is planned for April 26 from 8am to 12 noon at the Disability Affairs Division, 8th Terrace, Centreville. However, books will be available for sale as early as this Friday. Kevin also encourages those wishing to assist to Kylan’s medical fund for ongoing treatment to contact him. For more information, call Kevin at 448-3863 or email kevin. cartwright219@gmail.com.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, PAGE 9
MINNIS: WE’RE STILL COMMITTED TO FREE PLACES AT UB BY RIEL MAJOR
IN wake of the University of The Bahamas’ recently announced tuition and fee increases, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday his government will be known for “providing education from birth to departure”. Dr Minnis told reporters on the sidelines of a loan signing ceremony that education is a priority for his government. “. . .It’s essential for our citizens and students to be educated so they can take advantage of all the job opportunities available,” said Dr Minnis. When asked for clarification relating to the rise in tuition and fees at UB, Dr Minnis said the government has made a commitment for free education for Bahamians at UB once certain qualifications are met. “…That commitment still holds. We also made a commitment that those students coming from the Family Islands we understand the stress and strain that they and their family undergo in terms of looking for accommodation so we’ve made a commitment that we must help our brothers and sisters coming from the Family
Islands and we provide them with $500 per month to assist them with their lodgement. “The commitment that we have made we will adhere to, you will note that we have embarked on providing preschool education because we know that with preschool education our citizens have greater opportunities become better leaders, they become managers etc so we’re providing free preschool education for Bahamians.” Last June, Dr Minnis said: “Beginning in September 2019 all full-time Bahamian students who meet certain entry requirements will receive free tuition (at UB).” Dr Minnis reiterated this promise during a recent Family Island town hall meeting. In a letter to students a little over a week ago, UB’s Office of University Relations advised that as of fall 2018, the estimated real cost of attendance per student attending the institution was between $26,810 and $30,810 annually inclusive of housing, based on figures provided by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships. It added: “As of fall 2019, the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships estimates that for
THE UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas first-time, first year students, the annual cost of attendance per student will be between $29,180 and $33,780. Whereas at other institutions approximately 38 percent of the cost of attendance is covered by student tuition and fees, at UB, this accounts for merely 20 percent of the cost of attendance.” The letter further noted tuition and fees had gone unchanged for 20 years with government
subvention covering the minimal operational, educational and growth expenditures. As of this fall late registration fees will go from $150 to $250; application fees will go from $40 to $50; ID card fees will go from $10 to $20; transcripts and e-transcripts will go from $5 to $20; local status letters — inclusive of enrolment, initial review, progression and completion letters (except
initial graduation letters) — will go from $10 to $50; international status letters will go from free to $60; add/drop/withdrawal fees will go from $20 to $25; diploma certificates will go from free to $50 and graduation evaluation fees will go from $100 to $250. Last week, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd referred to these increases as a “small adjustment.” He said despite the move, the Minnis administration is committed to delivering on its promise of free tuition for UB students who meet certain criteria. “It has to be said, the University of The Bahamas has, for a long time, been operating with a significant deficit. What this is, is a small adjustment of 15 percent to fees and tuition that we hope can go toward lowering that legacy deficit,” he said. “We have proposed our plan of getting students to UB. And once that is the case, we are committed, and this also important to understand, getting them there with free tuition,” he added. Mr Lloyd said the government would seek to clarify its “free education” plan in the coming months, suggesting that definitive details would be presented during the 2019-2020 budget debate.
‘There’s been a vast improvement in treatment of transgender people’ By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net THERE has been a “vast improvement” in the general treatment of transgender Bahamians, a local advocate for the community said yesterday, adding however that more still needs to be done in terms mental health services and other areas. In an interview with The Tribune yesterday Alexus D’Marco, lead spokesperson of the D’Marco Group and the newly launched United Caribbean Trans Network (UCTrans), pointed to a formalised education campaign and wider social awareness as the two major reasons behind the “shift in the culture” across The Bahamas. Referring specifically to several ongoing discussions on ways to improve legal frameworks and health policies that presently discriminate against trans Bahamians, Ms D’Marco said the Bahamas was now “setting the pace” for “inclusion and understanding”. “There is a vast improvement,” she said. “As far as respect for trans persons goes, and how they identify in The Bahamas, people are now realising and understanding that there is a difference between sexual orientation and gender identity.” Ms D’Marco said a streamlined education strategy alongside a steered public discussion on the transgender lifestyle has aided an overall campaign of understanding. She said based on this education, there has been a shift in culture. To that end, Ms D’Marco said local trans persons are “blessed” to sit at the table with local “decision makers and gatekeepers,” namely the Office of the Attorney General with whom discussions concerning rights, protections and avenues to communicate perceived bias or oppression have been had. “For them to open their door to us is a step in the right direction because back in the past you wouldn’t have had that,” Ms D’Marco said. “I think we are moving and progressing slowly, but we are making some headway. “We have our seat at the table,” she added. Attorney General Carl Bethel later confirmed legal officers attached to his office had spoken to community representatives on a “technical level”. In line with this, Ms D’Marco said yesterday her organisation was at the “beginning stages” of a policy document that could end discriminatory practices against trans Bahamians. She explained: “Well, now that we are able to
UC Trans briefing on the Transgender conference, held at the Warwick on Paradise Island. Photo: Terrel W Carey Sr/Tribune Staff document human rights violations against persons living in the Bahamas, I think there is more accountability for those persons and they are aware that mechanisms are in place to protect them. So for us, we are now able to document our experiences and formalise a document that says, on one side, ‘we should have this,’ and on the other, ‘but we are only getting this.’” Ms D’Marco added: “That is where the complete change will come. So the stigma and discrimination is still a thing, but there is now documentation of it, so people are now more hesitant to do something, or attack, or put us in fear. We are taking the necessary steps to not only recognise our rights as global citizens, but to point out where and how we are being discriminated and causing change. “It’s the same with healthcare. We’ve seen so much improvement in recent years, but that started with us saying to our government that we are here and that we do have needs that ought to be addressed. “As it stands now, we are at the page where the government has acknowledged that trans persons do exist in The Bahamas…that now links us to specialised programmes and treatments that we may need. We aren’t being pushed into some dark little corner. “You see, that link has streamlined our relationship with national healthcare programmes like the one for HIV under the auspices of Dr Nikia Forbes, where trans Bahamians are able to access medications and treatment in a discrimination free environment. “So while these linkages are closing the gaps on the physical health side, we are
now making the push for the further standardisation of mental health components to afford trans people the access to therapy,” she asserted. Ms D’Marco continued: “We need to, as a country, take mental health more seriously. But for the sake of my discussion, we need more avenues for trans persons to have access to adequate mental treatment and not feel scorned or pushed aside. For a trans person who is undergoing reassignment surgery or
affirmation of who they are, those services aren’t here. These persons have to go abroad or find these services online. “We are now to the point where we need to have an in-country doctor or an incountry psychologist that can provide these forms of therapy and treatment. We are finding our allies and bridging those gaps as we speak, but there is a lot more that can be done from a government standpoint,” she added.
According to Ms D’Marco the number of trans Bahamians presently “self-identifying” have increased in recent years. In addition to that, many of those persons opted to seek asylum in other countries in pursuit of more standardised rights and services. Clarifying this aspect, Ms D’Marco said her organisation was pushing to make these rights and services “basic” in The Bahamas. “Those who are left, they are fighting the cause
for those that are coming behind us; the generation that is to come. We don’t want them to go through the violence, the abuse and the discrimination. We want them to have that peace,” she said. “They deserve that. They should have that right to live in peace and be comfortable to be who they are. There should be things in place, and as a citizen of this country it is their right to have it; and where it doesn’t exist, we will demand it.”
PAGE 10, Tuesday, April 9, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
THREE AMERICAN SOLDIERS, ONE US CONTRACTOR KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN KABUL, Afghanistan Associated Press
THREE American service members and a US contractor were killed when their convoy hit a roadside bomb yesterday near the main US base in Afghanistan, the US forces said. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The US and NATO Resolute Support mission said the four Americans were killed near the Bagram Air Base, north of Kabul, while three others were wounded in the explosion. The base in Bagram district is located in northern Parwan province and
serves as the main US air facility in the country. The wounded were evacuated and are receiving medical care, the statement said. It added that in accordance with US Department of Defense policy, the names of service members killed in action were being withheld until after the notification of next of kin. In their claim of responsibility, the Taliban said they launched the attack and that one of their suicide bombers detonated his explosives-laden vehicle near the NATO base. The conflicting accounts could not be immediately reconciled.
The fatalities, which bring to seven the number of US soldiers killed so far this year in Afghanistan, underscore the difficulties in bringing peace to the war-wrecked country even as Washington has stepped up efforts to find a way to end the 17-year war, America’s longest. There are about 14,000 US forces in Afghanistan, supporting embattled Afghan forces as they struggle on two fronts — facing a resurgent Taliban who now hold sway over almost half the country and also the Islamic State affiliate, which has sought to expand its footprint in Afghanistan even as its self-proclaimed “caliphate”
THE BAGRAM air base has crumbled in Syria and Iraq. Last year, 13 US service members were killed in Afghanistan.
The Taliban have continued to carry out daily attacks on Afghan security forces despite holding several rounds of peace talks with the United States in recent months. The Taliban have refused to meet with the Afghan government, which they view as a US puppet. Meanwhile, the Taliban have agreed to take part in an allAfghan gathering later this month in Qatar, where the insurgents maintain a political office. But the Taliban say they will not recognise any government official attending the gathering as a representative of the Kabul government, only as an individual Afghan participant.
NOW, DON’T LET GO
HOMELAND CHANGES SPEED BEYOND NIELSEN EXIT WASHINGTON Associated Press
A NATIONAL park in Florida has captured a record 5.2m python using an innovative approach to tackling the invasive species. The female snake, the largest ever to be removed from Big Cypress National Preserve, weighed 63.5kg and was carrying 73 developing eggs. Pythons pose a major threat to native wildlife in the state and researchers in the park track down breeding females by fitting male pythons
with radio transmitters. “The team tracked one of the sentinel males with the transmitter and found this massive female nearby,” the park said on Facebook. As well as removing invasive snakes, Big Cypress says it uses each discovery to collect data for research, develop new removal tools and learn how pythons are using the area. The species is native to Asia but some pythons are believed
to have been released into the wild in Florida as overgrown pets, while others escaped from a breeding facility destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The snakes have no natural predators in Florida and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) says they have contributed to “drastic declines” of midsized mammals. Tens of thousands of Burmese pythons are currently estimated to be living in Florida’s Everglades.
Libya clashes over Tripoli escalate as city airport hit BENGHAZI, Libya Associated Press CLASHES between rival Libyan forces for control of Tripoli escalated yesterday as the death toll from days of fighting rose to at least 51, including both combatants and civilians, and the city’s only functioning airport said it was hit by an airstrike. The self-styled Libyan National Army, led by Khalifa Hifter who last week launched the push on Tripoli, acknowledged striking the Mitiga airport, barely 8 kms east of the city center. Hifter’s forces have clashed with rival militias which support the UNbacked government that controls Tripoli and the western part of the country. The escalation has threatened to plunge the fractured North African nation deeper into chaos and ignite civil war on the scale of the 2011 uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi. The UN said the latest fighting has displaced some 3,400 people and blocked emergency services from reaching casualties and civilians. The World Health Organization said two doctors were killed trying
PEOPLE move around the landing area as they prepare to evacuate. to “evacuate wounded patients from conflict areas”. Ibrahim Fadel, an official at Mitiga, said no casualties were reported in the airport attack. Flights were suspended for several hours but the airport reopened later yesterday and said it would resume operations going forward from 7 a.m. till 7 p.m. The official Facebook page of Mitiga, run by the UN-backed government, said a fighter jet attacked the facility but gave no other details. A video circulated online shows a fighter jet firing and apparently targeting the airport,
formerly a military base. Maj. Gen. Mohamed al-Manfour of Hifter’s Libyan National Army, told the Libyan Address newspaper they bombed targets at Mitiga after receiving information that the UNbacked government forces were preparing to target them. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York on Monday that “unfortunately” the United Nations received “no positive news” in response to its urgent appeal for a truce in Tripoli. A cease-fire is imperative to ensure that civilians trapped in fighting around the Libyan capital can escape to safer areas and that the wounded can be evacuated, he said. The UN humanitarian coordinator in Libya, Maria do Valle Ribeiro, said the clashes have also worsened the situation for migrants held in detention centers in Tripoli, she warned. Meanwhile, fighting was underway at Tripoli’s former international airport, some 24 kms south of the city. That airport was closed in 2014 after fighting destroyed much of it. Ahmed Musbah, a resident who lives near the area, said he could hear shooting coming from the direction of the town of Bin Ghashir, to the south. “The
sound of fighting seems to be closing in,” he said. Hifter’s forces said on Saturday they had seized the old airport. However, militias supporting the UN-backed government in Tripoli claimed they recaptured the facility. The Health Ministry of the Tripoli-based government said at least 27 people, including civilians, were killed and at least 27 wounded since the start of Hifter’s offensive against the capital. The media office of Hifter’s army said 22 of their troops had been killed since Thursday. It was not immediately clear when the two doctors whose deaths were reported by the WHO were killed in Tripoli. Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO’s director for the eastern Mediterranean, said that targeting of medical staff was “unacceptable” and “worsens the situation for civilians caught up in conflict”. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, called on the warring sides to stop fighting and start talking. Speaking at the EU’s foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg, Mogherini said all sides in the recent surge in fighting should “go back to the negotiating table under the auspices of the UN”.
PRESIDENT Donald Trump and White House allies pressing for a harder line on immigration sped their campaign yesterday to clean house at the Department of Homeland Security with a mission far wider than just the departure of Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. The dismantling of the government’s immigration leadership is being orchestrated by Trump adviser Stephen Miller, the impetus behind some of the administration’s most controversial policies, according to three people familiar with the matter. Beyond changing names and faces, Trump is considering separating migrant families at the border again, resuming the practice that drew so much fury and outrage last year, the same people said. The head of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, L Francis Cissna, and Homeland Security General Counsel John M Mitnick are expected to be pushed out of their positions, the officials said. Nielsen submitted her resignation after meeting with Trump at the White House, and three days earlier the administration withdrew the nomination of Ron Vitiello to lead Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. Other longtime civil servants in agency posts are also on the chopping block, said the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak publicly. Leading senators from both parties deplored it all. “The purge of senior leadership at the Department of Homeland Security is unprecedented and a threat to our national security,” declared Democrat Dianne Feinstein. “President Trump is trying to remake DHS into his own personal anti-immigration agency.” Republican Ron Johnson, chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, criticised Congress for a crisis at the border but also said, “I am concerned with a growing leadership void within the department tasked with addressing some of the most significant problems facing the nation.”
‘SMALLVILLE’ ACTRESS PLEADS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO END GUILTY IN SEX-TRAFFICKING CASE MLB/CUBA BASEBALL DEAL NEW YORK Associated Press
HAVANA Associated Press
TV ACTRESS Allison Mack pleaded guilty Monday to charges she was involved in a scheme to turn women into sex slaves for the spiritual leader of a cult-like upstate New York group, a development that came on the same day jury selection began for a federal trial in the case. Mack, 36, wept as she admitted her crimes and apologised to the women who prosecutors say were exploited by Keith Raniere and the purported self-help group called NXIVM. “I believed Keith Raniere’s intentions were to help people, and I was wrong,” Mack told the judge. Mack - best known for her role as a young Superman’s close friend on the series “Smallville” - said
THE Trump administration is moving to end a deal allowing Cuban baseball players to sign contracts directly with Major League Baseball organisations. The change will once again require Cuban players to cut ties with their national programmme before signing with MLB. The Treasury Department told MLB attorneys it was reversing an Obama administration decision allowing the major leagues to pay the Cuban Baseball Federation a release fee equal to 25% of each Cuban player’s signing bonus. The decision made public yesterday appears to make the MLB-Cuba deal unworkable by eliminating the payment mechanism, similar to one MLB has with
ACTRESS Allison Mack that after months of reflection since her arrest, “I know I can and will be a better person”. The actress is to be sentenced on September 11 on two racketeering counts that each carry maximum terms of 20 years in prison. The plea means Mack will avoid going to trial with Raniere, heiress Clare Bronfman and Kathy Russell. All have pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing.
leagues in China, Korea and Japan. “The US does not support actions that would institutionalise a system by which a Cuban government entity garnishes the wages of hard-working athletes who simply seek to live and compete in a free society,” National Security Council spokesman Garrett Marquis said. “The administration looks forward to working with MLB to identify ways for Cuban players to have the individual freedom to benefit from their talents, and not as property of the Cuban state.” The MLB and Cuba engaged in intense negotiations on a player-transfer deal through the Obama administration’s effort to normalise relations with Cuba but the deal was only finalised after Trump took office pledging to roll back Obama’s policy.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, PAGE 11
A GHOST ship off the coast of Peru, home to the biggest fishery on the planet, has become an unlikely nesting site for guanay cormorants and Peruvian boobies.
Hugh Pearson / Silverback/Netflix
Our Planet shies away from some uncomfortable truths
LEFT: Documentaries portray pristine habitats, but that’s not always the case. Above: Our Planet’s team filmed the burning of Madagascar’s dry forests, but this didn’t make the final cut. Jeff Wilson/ Silverback/Netflix. Below: A red capped manakin, filmed in Panama. Emilio White/Silverback/Netflix
By JULIA P G JONES Professor of Conservation Science, Bangor University
O
VER six decades, Sir David Attenborough’s name has become synonymous with high-quality nature documentaries. But, while for his latest project, the Netflix series Our Planet, he is once again explaining incredible shots of nature and wildlife – this series is a little different from his past films. Many of his previous smash hits have portrayed the natural world as untouched and perfect, Our Planet is billed as putting the threats facing natural ecosystems front and centre to the narrative. In the opening scenes we are told: “For the first time in human history the stability of nature can no longer be taken for granted.” This is a very significant departure – and one which is arguably long overdue. Those of us who study the pressures on wild nature have been frustrated that nature
documentaries give the impression that everything is OK. Some argue that they may do more harm than good by giving viewers a sense of complacency. Conservation scientists were expecting that the new series wouldn’t shy away from the awful truth: the wonders shown in these mesmerising nature programmes are tragically reduced – and many are at risk of being lost for ever. I had the privilege of seeing the One Planet team at work back in 2015 (these films take years to make). I spent three weeks at the camp in western Madagascar where they were working on their forest film. While the camera crew were working day and night filming fossa (lemur-hunting carnivores), and trying to get the perfect footage of leaf bugs producing honeydew (the series is worth watching for this sequence alone), the team was also digging deep into the complex issues of what is happening to this wondrous biodiversity. Their researcher spent many hours with Malagasy conservation scientist Rio Heriniaina talking to local community leaders about
the challenges they face and the reasons for the very rapid rate of forest loss in the region. However, none of that fascinating footage made the final cut. Following a scene showing fossa mating, we are told that their forests have since been burnt. This was already happening in 2015. As Heriniaina told me: “Madagascar’s dry forests are vanishing before our eyes. Every burning season large areas of forest go up in flames to clear space for peanuts and corn. There is no simply answer to as why, and no simple solutions. Poverty plays a role but so does corruption and the influence of powerful people who profit from the destruction.” This is my main critique of Our Planet. Despite being billed as an unflinching look at the threats facing the intricate and endlessly fascinating ecosystems being depicted, it actually tends to shy away from showing these threats or, even more importantly, addressing the question of what can be done to resolve them. Like previous documentaries, shots have been carefully positioned to cut out evidence of human influence.
In my three decades of watching wildlife documentaries, I remember only one moment which broke from this tradition. In Simon Reeves’ 2012 series about the Indian Ocean, he showed people living in and around the habitats he was filming. He humanised them. He was also honest about how limited the picturesque natural habitats he was filming were. In a memorable sequence showing a sifaka leaping between trees, he asked the camera man to turn around, revealing the miles of sisal plantation which surround the tiny remnant of forest where endless crews go to film these charismatic lemurs. When Planet Earth II came out in 2016 I was disappointed to see a return to more of the same – that same remnant forest in southern Madagascar appeared, but without the context. As with previous documentaries, you could come away from Our Planet thinking the places being portrayed are completely separate from people. Human presence in and around many of these habitats has been erased. However to be successful,
conservation can’t ignore people. Maybe it is churlish to complain that Our Planet, like other such films, avoids showing the uncomfortable truth about just how threatened so much of nature really is. Perhaps the pure and unsullied vision is what makes them so popular. So many of us working in conservation were drawn in through watching Sir David Attenborough’s other films as children. By introducing viewers to fascinating facts about ecology (who knew that winds blowing across deserts feed life in the ocean?) and the mind-boggling behaviours of birds (such as the manakins shown doing a shuffle dance), Our Planet will engage a whole new generation. Researchers have shown time and time again that knowledge isn’t enough to change people’s behaviour. However feeling connected with nature does matter. One thing the series will certainly do is make people fall in love with the planet. That is certainly a good thing. theconversation.com
PAGE 12, Tuesday, April 9, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
‘The Bahamas’ own street philosopher’