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KILLED BY ONE OF THEIR OWN

Family’s agony as officer shot by colleague By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net A ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force veteran was shot multiple times in his upper body and killed by his subordinate at Government House early yesterday morning, gripping the nation and sending shock waves throughout the RBDF. For officials, this has raised questions about how a man who went to work to provide for his family was killed at the country’s highest office – a place considered one of the most secure government facilities. Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling was not at the residence at the time. Petty Officer Philip Perpall, once a United

Nations peacekeeper in Haiti and a dedicated marine for more than 30 years, died in the guardroom of Government House after he was shot at around 2.30am by a marine whom sources say was not on duty at the time. It is unclear if he was at any time stationed at Mount Fitzwilliam. PO Perpall, 52, was the only casualty of the incident despite the perpetrator also opening fire on other officers in the room, Commissioner Anthony Ferguson said yesterday. Commissioner Ferguson, pictured left, would not say whether the perpetrator was also a marine, but he confirmed that a person of interest was assisting officers with their investigation. RBDF officers on duty outside Government House yesterday following the shooting incident which led to the death of Petty OfSEE PAGE THREE ficer Philip Perpall, inset. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

BIMINI GUNMAN SLAYS US BUSINESSMAN By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

A WELL-KNOWN American businessman in Bimini was shot multiple times and killed in his home at Bimini Bay opposite Resorts World early yesterday morning, the Royal Bahamas Police Force has said. While his identity has not been released, The Tribune understands he is 47-year-old Alain Perez,

BIG JOHN’S BAR AND GRILL the owner of tourist hotspot Big John’s Bar and Grill in Alice Town. He is a native

of Miami-Dade County in Florida. His business has sponsored an annual back-to-school drive on the island for several years. According to police, the incident happened shortly after 1am. “A male was shot multiple times in the upper part of his body, while at his residence in Bimini,” police reported yesterday. “The male victim was taken to the Bimini clinic where he later succumbed to his injuries.” SEE PAGE FIVE

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Injunction stops sale of former MP’s Jeep

THE SUPREME Court barred the auction of former MP Keod Smith’s Jeep Wrangler. By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

The Tribune

AN injunction was issued by the Supreme Court on Friday barring the auction of former Member of Parliament Keod Smith’s Jeep Wrangler. The injunction, issued by Justice Bernard Turner, prevents the provost marshal and his deputy from selling the vehicle for seven days and also orders all parties to appear before the court on Friday, May 3. Mr Smith reported the vehicle as stolen on March 18. His attorney Carlton Martin has described the seizure of the Jeep Wrangler as illegal although Deputy Provost Marshal George Fernander, who conducted the seizure, did so after being armed with a court issued writ. It came in response to an application by Coalition to Protect Clifton Bay, also known as Save The Bays, represented by attorney Fred Smith, QC. The injunction was issued the day before the 2010

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not be officials could T to press time. reached up By AVA TURNQUES to sources Reporter of According .net Tribune Chief matter, as tribunemedia close to the Wells has since aturnquest@ Mr Progres- Monday his accounts FOUR former Cabinet paid $9,000 on balParty an outstanding ARNOLD sive Liberal more than with $8,600. FORBES ministers owedat Bahamas ance of some also said as $62,023 The source Forbes was one $20,000 each Mr Light, with Power and in arrears of Monday the company former minister as of July, in talks with balance over settle the Mr for some $60,000 a list obtained to three-month period. a according to PLP Mount by The Tribune.and Collec- Forbes, former MP, was appointed The Credit listing of Moriah January 2015, in Department tions and board to Cabinet served as the MPs, senators the period and previouslythe Bahamas of for members 31, revealed chairman and Industrial ending July State Minister Agricultural . former that of Works Corporation the “do not Others on are: former in the Ministry owed BPL list Dr disconnect� Arnold Forbes of Health Tall $62,023.14. by The Minister former The list obtained delin- Perry Gomez, Leslie Miller, Tribune contains of six Pines MP Youth Minister of former quent accounts Cabinet minis- former Johnson, Dion former PLP PLP MPs, Dr Danny Village MP ters, two former Tourism DR DANIEL entities, and Nassau , two private Cabinet min- Smith, former JOHNSON Obie Wilchcombe one sitting $24,413 Town MP Minister South Beach MP and former ister: Bamboo Hamilton State Renward Wells. who owed Cleola of Mr Wells, $3,703.96 at former Minister Damian Affairs $9,277.07 and locations - for Legal two separatetotal – did not Gomez. SEE PAGE EIGHT $12,981.03 in yesterwant to comment other former day, and the

DION SMITH $9,275

RENWARD WELLS $12,980

BPL WHO RUNS is quite willCRUNCH DAY OVER utilityto operator from it “walk away�

ing By NEIL HARTNELL Editor $25m, five-year maximum t contract et Tribune Business ibunemedia.n BPL managemen nhartnell@tr and Minnis if the board wish it to go. on Power & BAHAMAS board will administrati which will The meeting,PowerSecure Light’s (BPL) by meeting� hold a “crunch e today, be attendedand their attorneys key with PowerSecurlikely crit- executives is viewed as the from the US, with the outcome whether the to determining whethermake and ical in decidingas manager. sides will “kiss latter remainsTribune Busi- two separate. up� or Multiple - SEE BUSINESS yesterday US FULL STORY ness sources that the confirmed

were spent

DAMIAN GOMEZ $3,413

OBIE WILCHCOMBE

CLEOLA

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T By AVA TURNQUES Reporter t Tribune Chief ibunemedia.ne aturnquest@tr Sewerage WATER and Chairman Corporation yesterday Adrian Gibson existence the confirmed disconnect� of a “do not by scores list populatedthe governof elites at utility owned to ment he pledged provider as on initiate a crackdown accounts. delinquent The told Mr Gibson l “confidentia Tribune the 221accounts, list� held total of with a combined the period $175,000 for2017. ending June he plans He said that corporathe to direct all persons tion to notify arrears owing excessive or face debts to resolve n. disconnectio a list confiis “There the Long dential list,� Island MP said. would think “In fact, I s corporation the all that year or two, in over the last and more particularly year, there May of thisclose attenhas been that list by tion paid to t with the managemen changing the a view to lists usually way those operate. this con“As it stands, a number has fidential list on it, and persons of it’s being really and trulypersons by used to notify or letters. courtesy call that as the I can say toothe corporachairman of to direct tion I am going owing that all personswho are excessive arrears EIGHT SEE PAGE at the end of

DR PERRY GOMEZ $24,498

LESLIE MILLER $42,219

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Watch the film - every agonising, wrenching, awful second. Then give up Eugene’s killer

$4,911 HAMILTON they owed $6,118 list and the amount since that date. disconnect� BPL “do not made or further debt incurred named on the NINE individualsdo not include any payments July. The sums

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NM VIRGIL By KHRISNA Reporter Deputy Chief nemedia.net kvirgil@tribu his parAFTER leadinglandslide ty to a stunning dealing a paravictory and to the Progreslysing blow Party last night, sive Liberal Prime Minister incoming Minnis declared Dr Hubert have abused that those who trust “have of positions to fear�. something to thousands of Speaking at the Q House today. pledged that jubilant supporterslast night, ment Dr Minnis on will give E Sports Centre administrati Terrance National Movethe Free also announced his General it ment leader be sworn in as Auditor the resources that he will fourth prime Bastianto probe how taxpayThe Bahamas’ at Govern- needs 5pm minister at

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safeas well as of homicides A DORSETT guarding the residents By SANCHESKReporter in Fox Hill. et Tribune Staff walkabout bunemedia.n During a Acting prepared. live national sdorsett@tri er Fox Hill on Tuesday, ROLLE During a Ferguson Commission his office By RASHAD Reporter ACTING Fergu- Commissioner and address from Dr Minnis Tribune Staff Anti-Gang of Police Anthony emedia.net yesterday said the Inveslast night, Maria is rrolle@tribun Tracing and announced dev- son establishment of two Firearms Unit will operate fore- said: “Hurricane the potentially Bahamas tigation WITH we the DetecMaria another hurricane that separate Royal anti-crime out of the Central the cast for Hurricane Force storm to pass astating monitor.� (CDU) while projecting the Baha- must carefully Though most Police aimed at eliminating tive Unit SEE PAGE 11 units counHe added: near the Southeast Prime was spared gang activity in the morning, of mas Friday Hubert Minnis of the Bahamas the number reducing Dr try, Minister of those SEE PAGE TWO and is urging residents be vigilant islands to

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Dr Hubert MinPRIME Minister Kendera Woodside, nis meeting murdered Eugene the mother of

this Yes I feel for y our countries.than I can say.� more ensure has a responsibilit one mother said he will Each citizen information Dr Minnis provided to and whatever that forward. medical attention is is pregnant. the composure. said he felt the fam- has we must bring among us.� who after feel live Dr Minnis Mrs Woodside, the grieving and days makes me Three These criminals who emphasised country’s he “You can see of those pushed the ily’s pain. “What through,� Mrs Minnis, that her appearis that most during murder that violent crime into ROLLE she’s going someI, even worse By RASHAD Reporter not a pain “I assured her that the family the yard, struggle with spotlight yet again, them was doctor, to will have we see in Tribune Staff ance before called on women said. today (Friday) we to look the national as a medical emedia.net acute. rrolle@tribun come my my years political move,one day this week time her pain remained live a life, medical personnel she’s pregand comforting cried. “He ain’t even to wear blackfor murder victims. Dr THE hugs her because sure that Prime Minister wife God,� Mrs Woodsidegive my upon after in mourning I’m calling words of are I have to make and his a baby. I could my “As a mother, I really nant.and her unborn infantmake Hubert Minnis couldn’t answer “He’s right now just for because her will also take all mothers can stop this,� Patricia Minnis that consumed breath be right here. They well and we sure the to believe mothers who was tearful both ts to make the questions yesterday as babyheart out my body. who arrangemen medical personnel They said Mrs Minnis, eight- my Kendera Woodside have our sons on a only son. for her son, killed times. “We birth and as they necessary her and see her “This my my daughter too after she grieved of them at from the safety who was still with look almost shoot (the house) with would’ve delivered most knowing we cradle basis to ensure infant.� year-old Eugene, men we are to me with regular they inside four days ago. people ain’t tell- and What they do to my family? so they are closer patients,� Dr becomeWe have to speakshould of her and her unborn PAGE TWO SEE them. are my former “Why these bringing my son me. they do to us? st by pro- them. I think all women week me? I they this gynaecologi What they a carry we day me ain’ one ing Minnis, “The message she cried between “Why they wear black what’s happening in a baby.� tried to right now?� fession, said. the entire Bahamas 29 years, He’s Dr Minnis and mourn Eugene’s Rose- live screams as must send to fight this alone. Tonio Woodside, family at theirEugene his wife even is the police can’t console the maintain father, consoled home where to on Road bud a stray bullet as he struggled was shot by did his homework. he Monday as

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PLP CASUAL HIRES COST EXTRA $10M

OMY AG WARNS ECON ER’ IN ‘GRAVE DANG

he told Parto In June, cost the ROLLE such liament of By RASHAD Bahamians $10,149,738. by the Carib- Tribune Staff Reporter so alarmed Action Task rrolle@tribunemedia.net increases was comes after bean Financial draft The revision more than By NEIL HARTNELL Editor Rolle, minForce’s (CFATF) BRENSIL et Tribune Business services he included that were not The Bahamas ibunemedia.n report on his staff ister of public nhartnell@tr 1,700 workers Gen- that he instructedaddressing and National Insurance, in his original count. December Progressive THE Attorneyslammed to begin work on June. Amid the said between 2017, the criticism May flaws from early eral yesterday by Liberal Party’sadministrablasted the 2016 and in the nation’s the ballooned Mr Bethel deficiencies adminis- public purse laundering of the of the Minnisof its firings anti-money former Christie to tackle $16,532,738 because on’s tion because “entirely unacfailing administrati regime as SEE PAGE SIX they had tration for with the Christie public service ceptable�, warning “in great known weaknesses hiring of new that period. during put The Bahamas necessary urgency. BUSINESS workers SEE danger�. TribSTORY told FULL Carl Bethelhe had been une Business

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A DORSETT By SANCHESKReporter et Tribune Staff bunemedia.n sdorsett@tri TERS yesFIREFIGH a large blaze terday battled Providence at the New three weeks Landfill, nearly a massive that after tackling city dump fire at the nearly a month. burned for Charge of Fire Officer in Chief SuperinServices, Evans said tendent Walter is “not confire current the the any way to this nected� in and at previous blazedo not know time officials the fire. Howwhat caused t Minister ever Environmen told rehe Kenred Dorsett the site that porters at “sabotage� in said suspected the fire. He relation to the team he “instructed�to have the of firefighters “before and blaze extinguished day� today nomination Baha Mar’s certainly before Friday. opening on started shortly The blaze and Wednesday after 3am officEvans said Chief Supt battle the fire to but ers expect another day for at least “huge� a wind is he said the factor. SEE PAGE SIX

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observed would be the holiday date of the historic the PLP month that the 50th on the actual January 10. nounced last mark event, Tuesday, in the public holirevealed a march to Rule. Ranard Henfield of back planned The change of Majority been perceived even ganiser several weeksOffice on anniversary development is yet day calendar has by the govas planned� that “after organian attempt This latest the ’s permis- and forth� the Cabinet group’s the same route by many as back for the a blow to government rejected the Rawson another set planned to protest on ernment to strike event by We without the Wednesday in sation that of a second 9 - the original sion. with The Trib- application to protest Squares because Monday, January announced for success Bahamas. In an interview II said “there March date another and Parliaments SEE PAGE SIX Mr Bostwick � and the the “event conflicts with for that observance Day. the une, it compromise Majority Rule by this this month being denied will be no already booked be deterred that DESPITE However, earlier and Parliament group will “not fascist coercion event� in Parliament Party date. Majority use of Rawson Liberal rights and attempt toward a protest on an- was announced Progressive Squares for January, We March and the abuse of our Bradley Roberts Rule Day in John Bost- constitutional freedoms�. lead or- Chairman Facebook, demonon Bahamas organiser the In a post yesterday wick II said go on as planned, on stration “will

A DORSETT By SANCHESK Reporter et Tribune Staff bunemedia.n sdorsett@tri

L BASIS FOR ROLLINS: NO LEGA REBEL SEVEN DISCIPLINING THE

HUSBAND KILLED AFTER GUNMEN FORCED COUPLE TO STOP CAR

A DORSETT By SANCHESKReporter et Tribune Staff bunemedia.n sdorsett@tri

and of Bimini toA DORSETT the islands ent By SANCHESK bringing the Eleuthera, cases Tribune Staff Reporteret CHIEF Superintend officerbunemedia.n tal to 25 confirmed Clayton Fernander, sdorsett@tri of the Central nationwide. in-charge Unit, warned a lull, quiet MP “This is like said. Detective FORT Charlotte last to be “exDr McMillan samofficials yesRollins said no get HEALTH residents to period,� drivers yesterday Dr Andre after armed will be continue to tra cautious� couple to stop terday urged against en- “We they send them in for night that “there a action� taken as no furmen forced in the middle remain vigilantfactors that ples Nabut we have good. disciplinary seven Free their vehicle vironmental who against the shooting despite testing which is road before and tional Movement MPs Dr ther cases, breed mosquitoes Key, Rich- of the driver. Leader local transmis- We’re still monitoring. Chipman, Edison Neilly, and and killing the Fernander the “lull� in ousted party as leader of Theo from left, Hubert Zika virus. doing our surveillance Chief Supt have been Hubert Minnis be- THE REBEL SEVEN of, Butler-Turner, Neko Grant, sion of the e Staff believe armed Public Health Hanna/Tribun “I think we as it relates the Official Opposition, Director of said police be the motive basis ard Lightbourn, Loretta yesterPhoto: Shawn well may out cause there is no legal progressing Dr Pearl McMillan Executive CommitHe said the that there to getting the message Andre Rollins. case robbery support FNM’s not have a for the killing. have “hapday confirmed for such a move. formal would new con- there and persons heeding a widespread tee no that came group’s actions incident could He added been lodged solidify a new leader.� have been since the deZika thing the because the around on it. This July, which is when objection has pened to anyone�. firmed cases came in an “were consistent with took place press release His remarks case against “the bogus charges� down in The murder to quesally protected partment’s on Tuesand the get our first constitution 5, which raised rians to after 9pm Millenagainst him e-mail in response December of cases in New we usually SEE PAGE SIX levelled members of Parliaright of parliamenta lead- shorty area of from The Tribune. the tions Rollins echoed the recall a parliamentary have day in the the number six other off Tonique from 22 to 23.on took part in Dr Providence they no longerability nium Gardens, ment who Highway, of Long Island Dr Mincase each er er when sentiments in his/her There is one Williams Darling action of removing Butler-Turn the country’s post. Dr Rollins MP Loretta Hubert confidence and brought to 109 for the nis from the number of and St Anne’s MP week to lead.� count said a growing who last to The TribSEE PAGE THREE murder admitting “that were Chipman, year, according FNMs are of action for said the if the matter the une’s records. court, the the best course Fernander take under to to be taken to Chief Supt the party to es is victim, identisaid the present circumstanc as Kendrick fied by police driving with was of the foreign Simms, when another car re- his wife, mians, most committee former employees won’t of them forcmonth, ahead them. tee next Smith said ceive all that is due to will, pulled to stop. ROLLE ing them Chairman James said they was drivBy RASHAD Reporter Mr Smith a “high “The man Millennium yesterday. money was givTribune Staff however, receive emedia.net Since the ing through basis by rrolle@tribun PAGE FIVE SEE ex-gratia figure�. an ort en on SEE PAGE FIVE former em- the China Export-Imp FOREIGN will and was inBaha Mar Bank (EXIM) for Bahaployees of the government tended primarily be paid by Commitappointed Claims

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A BROWN By SANCHESK Reporter et Tribune Staff bunemedia.n sdorsett@tri

are dead, SIX people ju15-year-old including a another man is venile, and his life in hosfighting for four separate pital after in less shooting incidents in the capital. than 48 hours took the The homicides count to country’s murder 43 days of the 26 for the first to The new year, according Tribune’s records. an isPolice launchedlast night of land-wide search suspected for two men dead in Yelthe shooting a man Gardens in low Elder latest incident.bloody weekDespite the Commisend, Assistant Police Stephen sioner of “hundreds� of Dean said were patrolpolice officers over the past ling the streetseffort to keep an few days in well as visitors the public as safe. officer-inMeanwhile Central Decharge of theChief Superintective Unit, Fernander tendent Clayton after a implored parentsto “keep a killing on Friday on their chilwatchful eye� their young dren, especially boys. Fernander Chief Supt have launched said police for the a massive manhunt the weekend suspects in killings. SEE PAGE THREE

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Bahamas Bar FORMER President ElsAssociation yesterday worth Johnsoncalls for Bajoined activistorganise prohamians to resistance tests and public tabled Interto the recently tions he ception of Communica 2017, which Bill (ICB) spying called “dangerous� legislation. who was Mr Johnson, week as the ratified last Movement’s Free National Yamacraw, for pubcandidate the level of bill, questioned on the imlic consultation g that it underscorin entrenched pacted deeply SEE PAGE SIX

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electorate.

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EQUIPMENT AT FAULT FOR SERIES OF BPL OUTAGES

T By AVA TURNQUES Reporter .net Tribune Chief tribunemedia aturnquest@ ic� “catastroph THE outages that island-wide Providence plagued Newstemmed from late last year equipment Pier widespread the Clifton to failures at according Power Station, and Light. vehicle. Bahamas Power reported escape in a were taken The companyof its investo reports, The victims are on According where they on the findings islandA DORSETT shortly after midnight re- to hospital but stable tigation into two another By SANCHESKReporter the officers inci- listed in serious and Staff outages, Sunday, wide et Tribune occurred a domestic condition. bunemedia.n that shortly major outage that 29 and sponded to sdorsett@tri in Valentine Police said November dent at a homeoff Johnson an officers arrested officers, a also between 4 last year, in after 4am, TWO police wife, are in Subdivision While at the the shooter, who was December to the a gunshot internal memo sent a Terrance. with from husband and stable condition home, a man armed the of- suffering Police also recov- government and obtained serious but shot multiapproached them wounds. from the by The Tribune. after they were responding shotgun both of a shotgun SEE PAGE 11 ficers and shot to flee ered ple times whileincident�. attempting The suspect. SEE PAGE 12 to a “domestican adult male, before police said. HowPolice have by one of the the scene, returned fire. con- officers suspect was able to who was shot custody in ever the officers, in the shooting. nection with

shootings one of six fatal area on Friday, e Staff in the Englerston in the calendar above. W. Carey/:Tribun as shown at Peardale Park Photos: Terrel from the scene to be a deadly February, boy is taken a 15-year-old 12 so far in what has proven THE BODY of and one of over the weekend,

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to “fully undo much more senseless set derstand this and have law By NICO SCAVELLA Reporter of killings,� respond “as et Tribune Staff t ibunemedia.n enforcemen and in nscavella@tr as possible� in Perry quickly meaningful way� ods� PRIME Ministerlikened a “very certain neighbourho fighting efforts. to do so their crime A DORSETT and the suggestion Mr ChrisChristie yesterday no crime situBy SANCHESKReporter and makes These efforts,would likely the Bahamas’“Wild West,� is “emotional et Tribune Staff suggested, a “subbunemedia.n ation to the recent wave tie sense�. came dedicating sdorsett@tri the as he said in the capital include number of officHis comments rethe country after the country streets of of murders a “major� and stantial� DESPITE homicides in hours its 27th homicide for to patrol the and simust solicit � effort by his ers Providence recording 13 er of corded Seven people have New “continuous on to “flood the year. ly giving them 13 days, Commission Greenslade been killed since Friday. to interdict administrati with officers in multaneous afternoon, Police Ellison is not in “the capacity of people a the streets� On Monday that is necessaid the Bahamas and the movements reported that “crisis� incorporata bid to do “all this madness the police also outside streets,� a state of the can constabbed bring on was police ofsary to on Nassau day man average Bahamian ing more reserve about their the an establishment men were to a halt�. speaking and “if necessary� tinue to “go two without Mr Christie, yesterday, ficers, Street while in the area of g Royal Bahaas normal day� attacked. with reporters occur- incorporatin Force marines shot while victims fear of being mas Defence conference Ross Corner. These stable said the “madness� At a press s on to gang activity in policing efforts. said he to be in ring is due also of were said in hospital. at police headquarter Mr Christie with a weekend and retaliation. past bloody be speaking Monday afterCommissioner condition er He said the a “shocking would Commission so“carnage�, said it is simSEE PAGE THREE said the only weekend ist� that will refor people Greenslade country’s crime Greenslade not enough developmen government to lution to the “keep prolific ply finger at the press to speaking at a Staff quire the to “point the crisis� problem is bars�. He in times of their Ellison Greenslade ER of Police Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune offenders behind Bahamas police “manage to COMMISSION not yet refuse yesterday. said the Royal (RBPF) is Act, Chapter SEE PAGE THREE conference Police Force implementing Suppression considering “locking down boxer was of human trafficking.53, of 106. a curfew or The former with three JOHNSON James Coakley, Andros By LAMECH Reporter also charged filed under on Ross Staff Cargill Creek, et of rape before Chief a double shooting lamented Tribune bunemedia.n was broughtJoyann Fergu- counts 6(a) of the Sexual ljohnson@tri recent inciyesterday, Section 99. It nature of the three mosthave left one Corner in Magistrateto answer to two Offences Act, Chapter in appeared the “too bold� in the capWELLS which engaged person-Pratt he MAN in dents, others A that yesterBy RICARDO Reporter three occurring counts of trafficking Section is alleged man dead andserious condi- crimes as he insisted Magistrate’s Court Tribune Staff SEE PAGE SIX in sexually as- sons contrary to ital recently, nemedia.net of prolific in hospital accused of Trafficking rwells@tribu that a “handful hell-bent day woman during 3(1)(a) of the and saulting a harge of the offenders� remain holidays. and po- tion. Persons Prevention Officer-in-c Unit, the public. 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energy. solar, to produce of agreeof Works The heads the governMINISTER said challenges, Desmond Bannister ment requires to “address concerns� pressed certain and BPL delayed today marks which he suggestedof docu- he has “serious Power and ment and consistent WHILE with Bahamas to “keep the reliable of electricity on the for both sitsubmission the deadlineformer parlia- the tell- supply Providence, Light’s ability are chal- lights on this summer,� of island of New ting and to file financial ments. the abiliAmong these the lack will include finans mentarians Public Discloing The Tribuneprevent the whichmeet the requirement with obtaining may ty to disclosures, Chair- lenges from spouses, cial records in situations reliability from fulfilling of the project.� sure Commission the instalLaroda told requireoper- government This involves supporting man Myles yesterday that particularly Mar all the necessary they may have all to lation “of The Tribunestill some that wherebank accounts prior ments in the Baha re necessary ated there were He said there heads of agreement.he is al- infrastructu g�. that SEE PAGE FIVE are “outstandin yesterday, to marriage. some unwilling-n He added at new, alIn an interview in his dis- was also “looking apprehensio ready and said ways,� including Mr Laroda some persons ness SEE PAGE THREE ternative cussions with to make who are required they exthe disclosures,

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• CALLS FOR REVIEW OF DOCUMENTS

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CHAM PIONS HIP

Prime Minister rings the bellrace for election

ROLLE By RASHAD Reporter Tribune Staff emedia.net rrolle@tribun Nottage’s DR Bernard forever be will “footprints the Bahamian etched on tal landscape� developmen work as a forthrough his of the Bahamer president of Athletic mas Association s, the Bahamas Association , the Medical Association and as a afMinDoctors’ Union for consumer and FORMER Prime rethe minister health to accept ister Perry Christie a defeat, was as I did when I fairs, education, Opposifor it arrears, into pictured yesterday. W. national security, who was in sponsibility response to Photo: Terrel Philip “Brave� airport tenant described recent resigned,� he said in levelled e Staff tion Leader as Christie Carey/Tribun Wednesday. died on the criticism Mr said on from accusations government recent the Davis in questions 71, administrati e spending, misfea- moves made by pandering at his administration Dr Nottage, the Cleveby a party of irresponsibl WELLS at a “misstep� thought By RICARDO Reporter Wednesday He will receive sance and cronyism. that weeks. never any he was “disap- to its base. acceptmaintained Tribune Staff “There was land Clinic. He also said allegations being in arrangenemedia.net that I was degree relating Mr Christie by the rwells@tribu gova state funeral announced, documents s would on my part y for any Per- pointed�around by the new be a review of irrements to ing responsibilit Prime Minister tossed matters that to these two controversie the press secon of any whatsoever of criminality, FORMER as according to Office of the the notion administrati yesterday condemned ernment concerning his last term absolve his and prove that much sponsible spending andbare’ is just ry Christie retary for the Minnis administra- transpired during Minister, Anthony wrongdoing rhetoric is as noth- that ‘the cupboard is efforts by the his government in minister. from Prime prime at accusations of the FNM’s “political slogans.� tion to portray as he challenged Newbold. political slogans.� Hitting back Minnis adminislight, SEE PAGE SIX ing more than challenges I have the SEE PAGE THREE a negative leader to carry out a members of the controvergovern“One of the the nation’s te examination of the who led the $8m to tration concerning of more thanclean up as the person led the government “dispassiona sial pay out and who record�. interview at one vendor for hurricane to an ment off of $1.2m During a lengthy home on Thursand the write his Cable Beach defended his day, Mr Christie

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G concern ADMITTIN Bernard Notin over what Dr have battled last tage may his isolation during Prime Minisdays, former yesterday for ter Perry Christie admiration the expressed forth by the effort put security to former national the build-up minister in election. the May general from his Breaking away since being public silence office in hisof a voted out last month, toric fashion Mr Chrishis visibly troubled of portions tie detailed with his last conversation and longfriend childhood colleague on time political Thursday. Centreville The former Nottage as Dr MP saw “fought tehis someone who throughout naciously� he loved and life for thosetrait he said he a supported, up to their saw on display . last conversation PAGE SIX SEE

be abandoned.

McRib is Back!

BAHAMIAN PROJECT

WELLS By RICARDO Reporter Tribune Staff nemedia.net rwells@tribu

OPENS AT LAST HEALTH CENTRE MARSH HARBOUR

it must Hurriis so devastated the island as Ragged Island remained on home has with those whohomes last week. “Every The en Rag- discussion battered their has been destroyed. has been health facility WIPEOUT: on storm-strick Min- cane Irma Prime teachers’ residence no water. destroyed. The and safety conditions to deteriorate, urged the 18 been has been destroyed. The is no light. There is HEALTH he smell the school will only continue destroyed. There about, you can yesterday as The in the afterged Island Minnis said to evacuate “As we walkcarcasses, dead animals. deister Dr Hubert on the island reduced will stench of dead of the individuals remaining residentsIrma, which has them REPORT that we get of rubble and SPECIAL health conditions Russell, math of Hurricane it’s essential there to piles Words: Khrisna W Carey teriorate and Dr Minnis said. only most structures Pictures: Terrel island unlivable. Dr Minnis to leave the for off this island,� rendered the bly reluctant stay here,� saw for the understanda home, expressing concern “They cannot as Many were and a delegation and days ever known through said after he damage left by Irma place they’ve hurricane ripped of their residences, first time the Five monster about the safety personal belongings. We will have behind. concerned left are by the smell after the Category island. “They may have and the Defence exacerbated of all es- whatever materials they the small southern a vessel here the same physical condition, the destruction still Force dispatch the cleanup and at The island’s carcasses and strongly urge those the Defence said. Dr Minnis of rotting animalled Dr Minnis to small community can Force will try to commence SEE PAGE THREE there is security,� that sential services, to leave until the time ensure Island has been on Ragged Ragged Island and be restored. to the residents; a walk through “I’ve spoken Minnis said following Dr devastated,�

Friday, June 30, 2017

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SIVE Liberal were obtaineda from a ther’s PROGRES The emails Bradley EMAILS leaked following of China Con- by The Tribune Party Chairmanout at his highdata breach (CCA) Roberts lashed story in December of CCA struction America’s colleague Vinthat from the breach former party night, accusservers show2013, Jerome lighting by a San Francisco cent Peet last North Anto servers China Construction as early as was seeking ing the former Islands MP hacker. Fitzgerald of dollars eventually paid 24 bitcoins dros and Berry enemy� $24,000) secure millions trucking, and (the equivalent of of being a “political an independin brokerage, to their servat Baha who mounted because he to have access it aplimousine contracts showing a resat in Cabinet ers restored; however, ent campaigna nomination forwarded leaked emails Mar while he of Educathat emails ONE of the Education, Sciwas denied party. Minister of as the Minister and Tech- pears relating to personnel quest from or d, Jerome Fitzgerald. from the governing tion, Science Tribune has to, to PLP supcompromise ence and Technology Speaking at CCA were in The in North at Baha nology, The top officials for Limolink encour- porters at a rally Mr Robnot his agent are the despite learned. night, they were at You last which contradict saying with from Andros is war� as fa- Bahamas. The emails this week de- Mar clientele a reference by the hack if erts said “this writes, “I limousine company was vote aged to get of Viacom Minister, who his office to concerned the crowd toPerry Mr Fitzgerald matime. the president feel free he urged Dr nied ever using to himself the an email dated May 18, am aware that interior arrive miliar. with regard the you wish. Please In for incumbent that a vote “Also Izmirlian terials have began to really we direct contracts me personally adding business from the mul- 2013, sent to Mr the to contact with contact Gomez, hotel. I would or his family resort. is a vote for be limousine meet with or have your agents Mr Fitzgerald, Cur- for the for Mr Peet Movement. it if we couldbro- are ready to he ti-billion dollar - the Pro- by our Managing Porter, Shelly appreciate anytime,� Free National Mr Porter Mr Fitzgerald Party MP QuentinAlarice Fill copied, appointed your official your people SEE PAGE SIX his Director directly.� tis and 1st 2013.� writes. gressive Liberal we really & THREE ker for June appears also Mr Fitzgerald indicates request a TWO indicated “As cusSEE PAGES for Marathon start brokerage $20,000 He then makesfor limouto highend for readiness to only cater to be requesting official Baha Mar’s and trucking services and of Mr Izmirlian Baha Mar, tomers and are the project a month from Sarkis services at of Baha Mar of re- sinehe touted the level original developer the ex- the as the brokers citing remain Izmirlian, were necessary for the property. penses that cost of his fa- cord to cover the Healthcare hisMarsh Harbour a tortured ROLLE Centre has missed deadBy RASHAD Reporter tory, one of of shoddy Tribune Staff emedia.net lines and claimsall without rrolle@tribun ip, ity. of- workmansh ENT clear accountabil GOVERNM ed the anyThe facility’s original bankrupt. ficials commissionHealththe contractor went of Marsh Harbour n in Abaco yesConstructio care Centre centre began it as a longIngraham terday, touting to the island healthcare under the former awaited boost on. adminisin and the Christie Health administrati Christie adhealth centre When the e Staff tours the new tration’s National came to power, RASPBERRY Perry Christie the W. Carey/Tribun Insurance plans. and Ado- ministration renovating Photo: Terrel ICED TEA PRIME Minister it spent $1m Like the Child SEE PAGE SIX Abaco yesterday. Robert Smith lescent and that was the (CARS) Complex year, ed last commission

Dr Hubert Prime Minister

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ManEmergency actiThe National t after they agement Agency (NEMA) the police managemen cations with from entering the vated its emergency evacuation and an were blocked at the Kenplan yesterday area. were also shelter was established at the Several persons with respira- dal G L Isaacs Gymnasium Centre to the hospital Elizabeth Sports during Gar- rushed on Queen as a shelter S in Jubilee tory complaints. Tribune arrivedwere which was used - for displaced RESIDENT to evacuate their When The residents last hurricane dens were forced after a massive the scene, several as the the believed on their roofs,homes. residents. landfill homes yesterday the dump is smaller Providence pouring water their a The fire at fire at the Newcommunity in thick, blaze grew closer to started by for Tall to have been Road. Parliament blanketed the smoke. Member of Miller was also assist- bush fire off Fire Trail black hazardous the Royal Bahamas Pines Leslie in hosing down their TWO AND THREE entrance Members of SEE PAGES blocked the visibility ing residentsproviding transportaPolice Force as and help. homes who needed residents to the subdivision tion for those zero. Angry dropped to in verbal alterbecame involved fire off Fire a smaller bush to the city after a spread have ed by Movement fre- Trail Road that blanketed Jubilee Gardens yesterday Fire Trail Road. fire the smoke in Jubilee the Free National areas in in bushes off to prevent dump. The flees from the A DORSETT YOUNGSTER done enough the New Providence Gardens and surrounding landfill that started at and threatened A at the New Providence to evacuate their homes. Hanna/Tribune Staff By SANCHESK Reporter quent fires have caused some of thick, black smoke officials fire were asked et Photos: Shawn Tribune Staff prompting issues. Landfill that Many residents bunemedia.n respiratory mas- several homes, sdorsett@tri them to develop SEE PAGE THREE came as a owners in JubiTheir comments at the landfill, raging ANGRY home was startyesterday expressed sive fire was lee Gardens concern that neither which officials believe nor disgust and Liberal Party the Progressive had any redespite not having many purchase WELLS sponse to his Mar’s former By RICARDO offers, as Baha Izmirlian said cases of im- Tribune Staff Reporter enced alleged nemedia.net developer, Mr “stands ready, officials solicitROLLE migration from migrants rwells@tribu By RASHAD Reporter his company to buy Baha bribes able developer of Staff ing and Tribune beatings THE originalMar resort willing complete it emedia.net and alleged prisoners in today and Bahamian rrolle@tribun of the Baha the resort’s Mar with migrants and States has de- immediately Bahamian conyesterday said THE United Bahamas custody. the Ministry continued completiondates workers and chronic delays the Yesterday, the The opening highlighted “intimida- of Foreign Affairs said lays, missed stag- tractors. ’s CCA for either government ental “inaccurate� and “now supposedthe en- created by or patent incomof report had “incomtion of non-governm self interest stop now. The gered opening� s� and efforts and in some cases . must into late next organisation and autire property that Sarkis petence deserves better.� information plete� government incident an by the Bahamas shows inhibit “free Referring to SEE PAGE SIX Min- year offer “is superithorities to criminal Education Izmirlian’s Fitzgerald or� to the current situation. for in which speech through as problems this, and ister Jerome libel laws� However, despite SEE PAGE 12 in its latest the Bahamas report. human rights also referThe report

A DORSETT By SANCHESK Reporter et Tribune Staff bunemedia.n sdorsett@tri

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Jeep was to be offered in a public auction, which was announced in a notice printed in The Punch last week. That notice said the Jeep’s auction was to take place last Saturday at the Supreme Court on Bank Lane pursuant to two writs filed by the deputy provost marshal in the registry of the Supreme Court on February 18 in reference to judicial review proceedings for the enforcement of two cost orders in favour of the Coalition to Protect Clifton Bay against Mr Smith. “The vehicle described is in mint condition, will be sold as is and will be available for inspection at the auction site,� the notice read. In February, Mr Smith withdrew his appeal of a retired Supreme Court judge’s order that he be committed to prison for 14 days for accusing her of bias in a series of affidavits over five years ago. At the time, Mr Smith also withdrew his appeal concerning him having to pay approximately $500,000 in legal costs and fees to

environmental advocacy group Save The Bays (STB) pursuant to former Justice Rhonda Bain’s December 2014 ruling. And in both instances, Mr Smith was ordered by the appellate court to pay legal costs to STB. Both orders by the former judge stand as a result of his withdrawing, and the Court of Appeal consequently dismissing the two appeals, The Tribune had reported earlier. In January 2014, Mr Smith was found guilty of contempt of court for impugning Justice Bain’s professional reputation through a series of affidavits he created in support of a recusal application from an ongoing judicial review to which he is a party. Mr Smith, attorney for Canadian fashion designer Peter Nygard, had filed a series of affidavits claiming that Justice Bain should recuse herself from a judicial review proceeding, with him alleging that she had made a series of decisions based on her affiliation with the Free National Movement.

THE TRIBUNE from page one However, multiple off record sources, including those in the RBDF, confirmed the suspected shooter was an able seaman. Other sources said it is believed that the shooter “jumped the wall” of the compound and gained access to the room where four officers, including PO Perpall had gathered for a break. Still, Commissioner Ferguson said police did not know how the shooter got there and was able to execute the tragic event that followed. The police chief said the shooter’s motive was unknown and he would not confirm whether the weapon that was used was a service weapon, a personal firearm, or licensed. Relatives were also visibly distraught yesterday at a family residence, the incident too difficult to speak about, they said. “As you are aware today we called this press briefing to give you some information about the tragic incident that took place on the premises of the official residence of the governor general sometime early this morning,” Commissioner Ferguson said during a press conference yesterday at the Central Detective Unit. In attendance at the briefing was also National Security Minister Marvin Dames, Commodore Tellis Bethel, Anti-Corruption Unit head Assistant Commissioner Paul Rolle, Chief Superintendent Solomon Cash, officer in charge of CDU, and other officials. “I am aware that there are lots of things going around on social media,” the police chief added. “This is what we know: we got a report sometime around 3am this morning through Police Control Room that a marine was shot on duty while at Government House. Responding officers upon arrival spoke with the officers of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force who reported that around 2.30am a male accessed the premises of Government House and made his way to the Guard House, where the guard commander and other officers were. “I am told that the guard commander was sitting in the administrative area along with another marine while others were on break in the room area. “This male opened fire from a handgun on the guard commander hitting him several times to the upper body before fleeing the premises. He was pursued by alert marines, however he made good his escape.” He continued: “Paramedics were summoned to the scene where they examined the victim and pronounced him dead at that location. “A team of detectives from the Central Detective Unit along with the commodore and his team from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force went to that location and from all indications we have an active investigation ongoing.” The murder is seen as a “real blow” to the RBDF, especially to those who worked closely with PO Perpall, according to Commodore Bethel yesterday. He said his dedication and integrity earned him the respect of his peers. “Certainly, we join hearts and hands with extending condolences to the family who’ve lost a great man,” Commodore Bethel told the media. “Petty Officer Philip Perpall served for over 30 years and certainly left his mark in the defence force. In fact, he was a peace keeper having served overseas in Haiti with the United Nations mission and not too long ago he was a part of the team that adopted

Monday, April 29, 2019, PAGE 3

RBDF stunned as officer shot and killed by colleague

THE COMMISSIONER of Police, Anthony Ferguson at a press conference yesterday about the shooting incident at Government House. Marvin Dames, Minister of National Security and Captain Tellis Bethel, Acting Commander of Defence Force were also present. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff the cemetery for the British Legion and they brought that up and modernised it and invested a lot of time and energy in it, which really was a reflection of his heart and his commitment to service. “He was hard working, he was dedicated and he was committed and certainly he earned the respect of his peers. “So this has come across as a real blow to the members of the defence force and has ricocheted throughout the force. “Certainly there will be a need for healing among the members of the force, especially those who worked in his department and throughout this whole process of investigation we have committed ourselves to providing full support to the investigation,” the commodore continued. “Whatever information is required, whatever procedures need to be followed we have committed ourselves to providing that support for the commissioner and his team and we are certainly grateful for the quick response and the investigation that is being conducted by the commissioner of police and his team and we look forward to bringing resolution to this serious matter.” Sadly, Mr Dames said the killing brought to light the need for proper security measures in government buildings and departments. However, he insisted that any measures to be taken in the near future were not reactionary, but shed light on ongoing discussions that officials have been having for some time. He said a special committee would be appointed to look at procedures and practices. “When I got the information I could not help but feel tremendous sadness that a family man who went to work to make a living for his family not knowing that it would end so tragic and this unfortunately is part of the nature of the job of a law enforcement officer,” Mr Dames said as he offered condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and the government. “Oftentimes one leaves home with strength and energy looking forward to

the work ahead, but not know how it would end and so this is very sad day for us in the Ministry of National Security and all of us in the armed force to be here and discussing such an incident.” He also said: “The government of the Bahamas is committed to the security if this nation, the security of every single Bahamian. “So any time we have an incident such as this it brings us all to the fore to appreciate how important it is for us to take security and safety seriously and so this particular incident of course is of serious concern to the government and we will be looking at it in depth to determine what happened, why it happened and if there were any breaches or failures to address those aggressively. “I had an opportunity to speak to both the commissioner of police and the commodore and our concern is having to do with how was something like

this allowed to take place in such a public place that was supposed to be so secure,” Mr Dames continued. “That’s a concern of mine and most certainly a concern of the government and for the gentlemen who are sitting on both sides of me this afternoon. I had a meeting prior to coming to this press conference and would have discussed with both the commissioner and the commodore that aside from the police investigation, which is totally separate and the police have already begun pushing in relation to this, we have to bring this matter to a closure and I am confident that the police are on the right track. “On the outside of that we have to look at why something like this was allowed to happen. So I maybe in the next week or so will be putting together a team who will look at this incident not from a police investigation side, but from a practice and procedural

side to determine what went wrong, why it went wrong and if persons are responsible then they must be held accountable. That is how we do business. “For a while now we have been talking about the protection of government buildings, especially key government buildings and putting in place the requisite policies and procedures that will allow us to know exactly what we need to do and when we need to do it. “This, of course, will speed that process up. It is

high time for us to move in that direction. We are living in a different world nowadays and we must move with the times,” he said. In the days and weeks ahead, Commodore Bethel said officers who witnessed the shooting and those who worked closely with PO Perpall will undergo counselling to assist them in the aftermath of the incident. He said he was confident that the force would show its resilience and rebound from this tragic incident that took the life of an invaluable officer.

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PAGE 4, Monday, April 29, 2019

THE TRIBUNE

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Stand up for the victims PEOPLE would do well to pay attention to the words of Bishop Simeon Hall today. It is refreshing to see a prominent leader – either in the church or in the world of politics – speak so plainly about what should be a simple topic to support: stopping sexual abuse. Particular of note are his comments on sexual abuse within married relationships, a matter that has gone too long unresolved in The Bahamas. “Churches need to talk more openly and honestly about the gift of sex and boldly decry instances of sexual abuse, including among family members and between married couples,” he said. Again, you would think these would be words that would be obvious – that support for those victimized even within their relationships should be essential. Sadly, we know all too well this has not always been the case. Infamously, there was former DNA leader Branville McCartney, who said he did not think that spousal rape should be illegal before backtracking and saying that he would put the matter to the people. Since then, we have had then Minister of Social Services and Urban Development Lanisha Rolle who said “in relation to marital rape, I’ve always said it is an issue that is private”. It’s no doubt a good thing that a reshuffle took her away from the social services department that offers support to the victims of such incidents. Her replacement, Frankie Campbell, said that the government can no longer ignore calls for legislation on the

matter of marital rape. The trouble is, he said that in January and here we are on the verge of May with nothing further done. In July last year, Attorney General Carl Bethel said it was unlikely a Marital Rape Bill would be brought forward until sometime this year. There’s certainly no sign of any rush. It is all the more galling because in December 2017, a representative from the UN, Dubravka Šimonovi, called marital rape the most pressing genderbased issue facing our country. Not the second-most. Not somewhere down the list. The top of the list. Yet nothing has been done about it since. Think of the victims who have heard someone at the top level acknowledge the urgency of their situation yet that voice is ignored. Think of all those who have become victims since yet know nothing has changed to help them in their plight. Think of the abusers who know the law does not take their victims seriously, and how that might empower them to hurt people further. Ms Šimonovi was told at the time by the Attorney General that revisions to the law were “under consideration”. How long must our women wait? How long must their voices cry out for the end of abuse? We thank Bishop Hall for lending them his voice in support – and to every church, to every politician, we challenge them to take up his call. Show us all that you stand up for our women, or we shall know that you stand for none of us.

Medals show the difference EDITOR, The Tribune THE results of CARIFTA as the public in Nassau have been told was that the Bahamas came second, 2nd… with 26 medals. Cleverly as one can with giving statistics argue anything how you wish to portray the matter. Sports

Ministry did not say that Jamaica won 85 medals of which 36 were Gold in contrast The Bahamas won 26 medals of which nine were Gold against Trinidad who won 24 medals of which seven were Gold. The truth Minister of Sports is good to teach the young people but then you

so like to bend the real truth…yes kudos the Bahamas team came second to the mighty house of Jamaica with a difference of 59 medals in total and on Gold a difference of 27! W THOMPSON Nassau April 23, 2019

Political world closing in on the ridiculous EDITOR, The Tribune SINCE May, 2017 I suggest the best description of the political world is very similar to the soap opera ‘As the world turns’ - mostly very unpredictable and usually questionable closing to the ridiculous. Monday, April 8th, was one of those days - Bahamas Government and IDAB signs a $40 million loan and a $100 million line of credit…the $40m was to revolutionise our civil service…Create efficiency and avoid waste – well that was the Public Relations of the signing. Not to be outdone

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net seemingly rather than holding the signing in the OPM now we gather hundreds of civil servants - virtually the whole of Cabinet at the Media… have to ask how many hours of productive work was lost - what was the cost of the reception, you know you did not have all those people without food plus drinks, but this was all about creating more efficiencies and cutting

back on waste – good start they wasted two-three… Ministers were not available in their offices… probably every PS was in attendance at a function that could have been done in and out in 30 minutes and Government would still have gotten all the PR they desperately were trying to achieve. BP&L … summer coming … renting more Aggreko generators powered by diesel so higher fuel surcharge - thank you, Mr Weasel, sorry Heastie! ABRAHAM MOSS Nassau, April 9, 2019.

Fair play in public life is fast disappearing EDITOR, The Tribune IT IS very interesting to observe that public morality and politics here in our wonderful nation are not practised on a consistent basis, if at all. There are several cases in point but none more glaring than the legalisation of homosexual and lesbian sex between individuals sixteen and over and, of course, the worst one of them all, so far, legalisation and the so-called regulation of gaming or the numbers. The other one is the abject attempts to destroy and belittle genuine politicians and those who are about doing good for this nation. Let’s get down to basics. We profess, bogus like, that we are a Christian nation. It is like over in the decadent United States of America where it is imprinted on their currency: “In God we trust....” Neither country, sad to acknowledge, is Christian in the purest of sense. Homosexuality and lesbianism have been in vogue ever since God created the angels and, of course, human kind. In the biblical days, the fabled twin cities of Sodom and Gomorrah , stood out as bastions of these reprobates. The culture was so ingrained and socially accepted that God Himself decided to wipe them away from the face of the Earth . Indeed, it is written that those who practice such sexual deviancy are abominations in God’s sight. In the very House of God, the deviant practitioners abound. I

personally have several relatives who are prominent clergy people and looked up to by many in the wider society but, in the case of the male ones, more women/ female than their wives; mothers and sisters. This had led to the rapid break down of the traditional family unit. Two men or females are incapable biologically, of procreation. It is an affront to The Lord Jesus Christ and a body blow to our political culture. The proliferation of the socalled web shops has led to the pervasive culture of wagering and gambling where, in most cases, Bahamians are chasing after a phantom and the Big Gold Dream. Many spend their last dollar and even twenty-five cents on a three or four ball in the hope of hitting it BIG....how foolish. The web operators are all multi-millionaires and, save for my good friend, John Stuart, they show off BIG TIME and flash their “wealth” with no shame. The politicians brought this about and political and societal blood are on their hands.Many in the church will not escape the wrath of The Lord Jesus Christ for the role, deliberately or, allegedly, for a fistful of Bahamian dollars. Now, some politicians and clergy are suggesting that cannabis or marijuana be decriminalized and even legalized for medicinal purposes. The administration has appointed a blue ribbon committee to “study” the issues related to this dangerous and mind-altering drug. I venture to opine that of all

of the national issues confronting this wonderful country, how to get high and on what type or grade of “the burning bush” our leaders prefer this non issue as a national distraction. Our politicians and religious leaders are out of touch with reality and few of them abide by spiritual principles and morality in everyday life. Not only are they and their allies in the secular and economic worlds in an apparent cabal to decimate the traditional family and to continue the economic slavery that has become the norm in The Bahamas. but they are hell bent on chopping and cutting down any perceived emancipator for the people. They will canabalize ; eat and destroy all and sundry whoever are not on their run or within the inner circles. Case in point, with your leave. One of the hardest working and effective members of the House of Assembly is the Hon Shannendon Cartwright (FNM-St. Barnabas). I make no secret of my admiration, respect and total political support for this fellow son of the widow and astute man of the unwashed masses. Of course, I am a New Deal PLP and the Hon. Philip “Brave” Davis (PLP-Cat Island) is my political leader without question, but there are four members of the House who are not PLPs whom I support. The other three are the Hon. Brensil Rolle (FNM-Garden Hills); the Hon. Frankie Campbell (FNM-Southern Shores)

and, of course, the erstwhile and visionary Dionisio D’Aguilar (FNM-Free Town). Many socalled PLPs and thousands of FNMs are dead mad with me for boldly stating this posture, but I could really care less. Cartwright, the Chairman of the Beaches & Parks Commission, is doing the job that few did before his arrival and without fanfare. He is a trusted confidant, apparently of the Prime Minister. As a representative for his constituents he has, almost, no equal, across the board. The other day, up in New York at the United Nations, this politically savvy “youngster” was asked by the PM to deliver a very important address for him to this world body. No other back bench FNM MP, to my knowledge, has been delegated by Dr. Minnis to do this before a world body. This shows a level and degree of trust that others only dream about. His constituency office on Oxford Avenue is up and running on a daily basis. Each week, I believe on Thursday afternoons, he is to be seen (yes, I have had reason to visit and speak with him on behalf of scores of residents of St. Barnabas) and, yes, I solicit and present books to his literacy programme over in that exceptional constituency. This man is “the real deal” and unless my party, the New Deal PLP, comes up with a similar individual in time for the next general elections, brother Cartwright will be returned to office. It is precisely because he has

empathy for his constituents and is a hard working individual with fundamental core principles, many do not like him, within and without his own party. In fact they envy and, possibly, fear him, politically. In recent times, people whose own morals and political stability have been challenged have launched vicious and semi- defamatory attacks against Cartwright on social media platforms. He’s been accused of cronyism and awarding contracts to friend and diverse others. Mind you, there is not a single piece of admissible evidence but the detractors could care less. Tar and smear him anyhow and hope that some of it sticks. I cry shame on diabolical individuals who seek to destroy people in politics or public life because they stand out and have a desire to simply serve the Bahamian masses and to make life better for everybody, regardless of partisan politics. Morality and fair play in politics and public life are fast disappearing. With Brother Cartwright, however, St. Barnabas, for now, has the right man for the job. If the Most Hon Prime Minister were a smart man, as I suspect that he is, he will position Cartwright for bigger and better portfolios within his administration. To God then The Lord Jesus Christ, in all things, be the glory. ORTLAND H. BODIE, JR Nassau April 27, 2019

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, April 29, 2019, PAGE 5

ALAIN Perez was the owner of tourist hotspot Big John’s Bar and Grill

Gunman still at large after he kills US businessman from page one

Officer-in-charge on the island Superintendent Henry Rolle confirmed yesterday that the perpetrator is still at large. He said police were still in the early phases of their investigation and had not yet determined a motive for the killing. Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini Pakesia ParkerEdgecombe yesterday described Perez’s murder as “tragic”.

“The death of wellknown businessman and resident of Bimini early this morning has sent shock waves through our community,” the MP said in a brief statement yesterday. “This incident is truly tragic and a rare occurrence in our beautiful island. “We are hopeful that investigations by police will result in the capture of the person or persons responsible and brought to justice. “I have spoken to the officer-in-charge of the Bimini District, Supt

Rolle, who has indicated that police are actively on the ground. We take this opportunity to extend deepest sympathy to his employees and family, our thoughts and prayers are with them.” Police are actively investigating and are appealing to the general public to contact the Bimini police at telephone numbers 242-347-3144, the Central Detective Unit at telephone number 242-350-3107 through 12, 911/919 or the nearest police station.

WEATHER AND ENGINE PROBLEMS COMBINE TO BATTER NEW PROVIDENCE By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net

A FAILED engine and inclement weather contributed to a weekend of power outages for Bahamas Power and Light customers across New Providence. On Saturday afternoon, a failed engine at the Baillou Hill Power Station resulted in power failure from Wulff Road to the eastern part of New Providence according to BPL. However, some customers reported outages in the Chippingham area as well. Quincy Parker, BPL director of public relations, confirmed to the media yesterday that a rainstorm caused a power outage from the JFK area to Carmichael Road on Sunday. He also attributed the power failure that occurred in the Shirley Street area late yesterday afternoon to the poor weather conditions. “At 2.47pm an engine at our [Baillou] Hills Power Station experienced a failure,” Mr Parker said on Saturday. “Investigators are on scene. As a result, Wulff Road, East Street South and Winton are off. Power is expected to be restored

in 45 minutes. Updates to follow.” At 3.20pm – less than an hour later – Mr Parker said Winton 1 and East Street South were reported to be back on. However, shortly thereafter Mr Parker said: “At present, [Baillou] Hills north and south, Winton and Earnest St are all off. We are working to return these areas to service and will advise as information becomes available.” He also apologised for the inconvenience. At 4.52pm, he posted: “Update: BPL reporting a generator tripped at our [Baillou] Hills Plant resulting in a temporary shortfall. The generator will be returned to service in approximately 30 [minutes] and supply restoration will commence immediately thereafter.” Under these posts, irate customers vented their frustrations and the various locations where they were experiencing power failures. According to their comments, downtown Nassau, East Bay St, Yamacraw Shores, Marshall Road, Leeward Estates, Garden Hills, Mackey St, Pinewood, Seabreeze, Prince

Charles, South Beach, Fox Hill, and Chippingham all lost power on Saturday. Shortly thereafter Mr Parker confirmed all customers “who should be on” had power restored. On Sunday afternoon, Mr Parker told the media: “At 1440hours, JFK tripped during a rain storm.” He added Carmichael west was offline but shortly thereafter had power returned. During a tour of BPL’s Clifton Pier facility on April 24, BPL executive Patrick Rollins pitched to reporters that the acquisition and installation of seven new Wärtsilä tri-fuel generation engines by BPL as the “end” to the utility provider’s longstanding electricity generation woes. Mr Rollins suggested the $95m generation overhaul should resolve legacy generation shortfalls — effectively ending blackouts, load shedding exercises and the need for rental generators. All of this is expected, he said at the time, as early as this summer. Mr Rollins added the power provider has committed itself to generating electricity more efficiently and reliably.

PAGE 6, Monday, April 29, 2019

THE TRIBUNE

Monopoly power Minnis turns his fire back on web shops

THE PRIME minister at the ribbon cutting ceremony of Poinciana House, a complex that houses a number of financial institutions and regulatory agencies.

By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has accused web shop owners of “monopolising on the economy,” as he introduced a new public-private programme to increase Bahamian ownership of government assets. Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest likened the programme to a trust fund that would combine these assets and allow Bahamians to invest in it with a “guaranteed return”. A return, Dr Minnis said would be as much as five to six percent. The prime minister spoke on Friday at the ribbon cutting ceremony of Poinciana House, a complex that houses a number of financial institutions and regulatory agencies. “In this spirit, the government is considering various public-private arrangements and opportunities for the development of government offices, which will also help to create a greater shareholder society for scores of Bahamians,” Dr Minnis said during his opening remarks. “I would like at this time to personally thank Mr Greg Cleare, who is leading the government in a new and innovative programme where we will establish (an) independent company where all government buildings will be permanently located and become part of this company, 100 percent Bahamian and government owned and Bahamians will be offered an opportunity to invest in this company and own government complexes. “The returns, government will then be in a

position to rent facilities of its own, rather than having three or four individuals monopolising on the economy, or as we would say, the web shops monopolising on the economy, the Bahamian people will be empowered to own their own complexes and have returns of five to six percent as opposed to 0.5 percent as it’s given in the bank. “And I would hope that when this initiative is launched, that we would have full and complete cooperation of each and every Bahamian who will own such an organisation, such an institution, and we will guarantee five to six percent return.” Dr Minnis said complaints that government buildings were filled with mildew and mould, made Bahamians sick, and had an overall negative impact on their quality of life will be a “thing of the past”. Following the prime minister’s speech, Mr Turnquest declined to comment on Dr

Minnis’ statement on web shop owners. However, he did clarify about the initiative. “So we’re looking at (an) innovative product that we’re trying to create that will widen the participation

of the average Bahamian in the ownership of government assets,” Mr Turnquest said. “We have not come up with any concrete plans yet, but the idea basically is that all of the government assets would go into a trust fund or a special sovereign fund where Bahamians would be able to invest in it with a guaranteed return. “And the trust fund would be responsible for managing those assets to ensure that the upkeep is up to par, that they take care of the remediation issues that continue to pop up in all of these ministries to ensure that the environment for civil service is comfortable, it is modern, and they

are afforded a good work place.” Mr Turnquest did not provide a specific timeline for this initiative, noting it is still before Cabinet. However, he said it is expected that it “will be moving forward relatively soon”. During his remarks, Dr Minnis vowed that his government “will continue to diligently cut through the bureaucratic and legislative roadblocks, red tape and mind-sets which impede greater and quicker progress on making the Bahamas a more competitive jurisdiction in a host of sectors and industries”. He elaborated on the importance of Poinciana House, noting the Ministry of Finance set up a special

purpose vehicle to purchase the site on which it sits. Poinciana House houses the Securities, Insurance, and Compliance Commissions of the Bahamas. Dr Minnis noted these three regulators enjoy “synergies derived from their physical proximity to each other, including certain shared functions and the sharing of related costs”. He added that the growth some financial services regulators have experienced, and are projected to continue to experience, was a major factor in the decision to relocate to this complex. “To house an expanse of government agencies and to reduce the costs of rentals and leases, the government will need to invest over many years in new buildings and purchases,” Dr Minnis said, as he reiterated the series of works projects scheduled to occur in the capital. These include the construction of a new office complex on the site of the old City Market on Market Street, which is part of the Minnis administration’s “ambition and longterm urban revitalisation programme”. He noted this will complement the refurbishment of the historic Southern Recreation Grounds — the first phase of which is “nearing completion”. Dr Minnis added that the heads of agreement for the redevelopment of Prince George Wharf is currently being negotiated.

FOUR MEN IN CUSTODY AFTER $50,000 MARIJUANA HAUL POLICE discovered more than $50,000 worth of marijuana from the streets of New Providence in separate incidents on Friday and took four men into custody. In the first incident, shortly after noon, Central Detective Unit officers, acting on information, conducted a search of an abandoned building at Horse Shoe Drive and discovered a large quantity of marijuana. No one was arrested in this incident. The drugs weighed 53 pounds and have a street value of $53,000.

In the second incident, shortly after 6pm, Drug Enforcement Unit officers, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of a residence on Sequoia Street, Pinewood Gardens and discovered five suspected marijuana plants. Four adult males were taken into custody in connection with this find. Police on New Providence are also seeking the public’s assistance in apprehending the suspect responsible for an armed robbery that occurred on Saturday. According to reports,

shortly before 1am, a male was at a residence on Faith Avenue off Carmichael Road when he was approached by an armed male, who robbed him of a cash and grey 2007 Nissan Bluebird, licence plate number AE8923. 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 328TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station.

APARTMENT STORE DESTROYED BY FIRE NEW Providence police are investigating a structural fire which destroyed an apartment unit on Friday. According to reports, shortly before 4pm, Fire Services officers were called to an apartment complex at East Street, south of Coconut Grove Avenue, where they

met a stone structure, apartment unit fully engulfed in flames. The officers were able to extinguish the fire, which was contained to a single unit of the apartment complex, causing extensive damage. Two persons were treated for minor smoke inhalation. An investigation is ongoing.

THE STORIES BEHIND THE NEWS

MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2019

Carnival’s actions lay our impotency bare

ONE of Carnival Corporation’s cruise ships. by Malcolm Strachan

B

AHAMIAN people have been expressing outrage at the revelations of Carnival’s illegal dumping of 500,000 gallons of black water, or treated wastewater, in our seas. It wasn’t long ago that the government was expressing its excitement for the role Carnival would be playing in the revitalisation of Grand Bahama’s economy. Now, the question looms if it is worth it. Carnival certainly seems to be a bad actor in this instance and its claims of the reports of dumping being unintentional and a result of human error aren’t being bought by the Bahamian people. The fact they were on probation after pleading guilty to an eightyear long ‘conspiracy’ of illegal dumping and coverup on five of its ships shows this being much more of a business practice than a mistake. The government, which has been focused on reinvigorating Grand Bahama’s economy, is caught between a rock and a hard place. Typically, governments never want to have to relinquish any victories and, certainly, Carnival brought hope to Grand Bahamians. Minister Kwasi Thompson, just a few months ago heralded Carnival’s training of Bahamian people - signalling the billion-dollar cruise company’s goal to ingratiate itself with the Bahamian people. The narrative is quite different now, as there is perhaps nothing Carnival can do to regain the trust of the Bahamian people. No amount of training, donations to charity or kissing of babies may get the company back in the good graces of a populace that largely doesn’t see the national economic benefit of cruises coming to The Bahamas. Historically, the numbers don’t lie – up until 2015, of the 75 percent of tourists that come to the Bahamas via cruise ships, tourism statistics confirm they only account for 11 percent of the money spent by visitors. More recent findings by the Bahamas Research and Economic Advisors’ Florida Caribbean Cruise Association revealed that since 2015 there has been a 59 percent increase in per capita spending – making The Bahamas the third highest passenger spending destination in the Caribbean, jumping from

$243.5m to $322.6m in 2018. While this is a great improvement, the environmental cost is nearly unquantifiable – particularly when a country lacks the capacity to manage the industry. That we haven’t focused on safeguarding our natural environment up to now reflects extremely poor on successive governments. Likewise, not until recently have we seen the government attempt to enhance our product offerings at the ports. The multitude of projects announced in recent months along with the redevelopment of the Port of Nassau can be a gamechanger by enticing cruise ships to stay in port longer. Although there is no doubt cruise ships seek to ensure their guests spend as much money on in-house entertainment and as little money at ports as possible, this is still something the government has been actively working on. This is why these revelations could not have exploded at a worse time, and the lack of trust between Bahamians and the cruise companies has no doubt widened. With the controversial decision to allow Disney Cruise Lines’ purchase of Lighthouse Point and the ensuing “secret” signing of the Heads of Agreement, along with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and ITM’s letter of intent to purchase the Grand Lucayan and develop Freeport Harbour, there is heightened sensitivity around cruise developments. There have already been grumblings within the wider community that Disney Cruise Lines is seemingly walking back some of its promises to South Eleutherans by omission in the Heads of Agreement. Now, with the government left to do a clean-up job, they’re left “investigating” an investigation that would have seemed to have already concluded with a guilty plea, a $40m fine and a report made public by a US court. In a statement, Minister of Transport Renward Wells said: “The government of The Bahamas finds these allegations most disturbing and takes this matter seriously and as such

KWASI THOMPSON

has engaged all relevant government ministries and departments to facilitate a comprehensive review and to provide an appropriate response commensurate to the actions.” He continued: “Whilst the ships named are not Bahamas-flagged, the allegations, if founded, would be considered serious violations of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships 1973/1978 (MARPOL) to which The Bahamas is a party. “As the port and coastal state in which the violations may have occurred, The Bahamas will investigate and take measures as appropriate.” Obviously, upon reading Wells’ statement, it has left many citizens confused. Especially since without any environmental protection laws, it seems there is little we can do outside of walking away from this deal. And you don’t need a degree in Bahamian politics to know they aren’t going to walk away from this project. Rather, it seems as if the government’s investigation is going to go on while the Attorney General’s office burns the midnight oil drafting environmental protection legislation – which he promised by summer’s end. Of course, Carnival will likely apologise and tout new training processes to assure the Bahamian people that this will never happen again. And capping it off with the promise of more jobs for Bahamian people, all will be right in the world. Save for the fact that it won’t be. The only thing these cruise giants care about is the profits they generate. Carnival is no different. If, while on probation for environmental violations, they’ve been involved in 800 incidents of illegal dumping of sewage, food waste, grey water, furniture and more than a half million gallons of oil, we would be foolish to believe this was somehow their “come to Jesus” moment. The judge that made the report public even regretted not being able to send the company’s president and chairman to jail, but said this: “Although Carnival Corp’s convictions are not unique, the company’s pattern of repeated violations, even when it is under a microscope, show how difficult it is for authorities to hold cruise companies accountable. It also shows the difficulty of strict compliance across 105 ships, more than

120,000 employees, millions of guests and dozens of countries.” If American authorities have trouble keeping Carnival accountable, the collateral damage of partnering with such a bad actor may be devastating for a country that doesn’t have a single piece of environmental protection legislation on the books in 2019. We don’t have the

legislation nor the will to protect our natural environment, and that is what we should all fear. Former Attorney General Alfred Sears reminded us recently in a separate discussion of the ‘brokenness’ of the Sir Stafford Sands model. While the government has shown the desire to help Bahamians build businesses, we are still awestruck with foreign

investors – obvious remnants of a colonial mindset. If we are honest, we can agree there is no way a Bahamian cruise company would be able to get away with anything like this in our country, much less in another. Thus, as Sears put it, the Bahamian can only hope one day to elevate to the treatment afforded foreign investors. We truly do have it upside down.

PAGE 8 MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2019 by Ava Turnquest Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

I

N less than a month, countries around the world will convene for the 72nd World Health Assembly to implement its 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Delegates will also hold critical talks on a variety of issues including public health emergency preparedness, universal health coverage, climate change and disease control. As The Bahamas takes its seat with other WHO member states, it would do well to check in with a former friend: Taiwan. Without formal recognition - its observer status was yanked two years ago - the tiny tech giant remains locked out of critical health information networks, research and resources. But that hasn’t stopped the country from improving its nationwide disease prevention capacity in line with the International Health Regulations (IHR). It is also the eighth nation to have undergone a Joint External Evaluation (JEE), a WHA-initiative to improve the global infectious disease prevention network. “The ascendancy of political considerations over professional ones has resulted in Taiwan’s absence from the international disease prevention and health security protection network,” according to Taiwan’s health ministry. “When SARS struck in 2003, many of our people were needlessly sacrificed as Taiwan had to press ahead combating the disease without WHO’s timely assistance. The international community should not permit such a travesty to occur again. It should understand that Taiwan’s people share with the rest of the world the same right to participate, on an equal basis, in the global disease prevention system.” The Health ministry’s statement continued: “Taiwan has transformed itself from a recipient of foreign aid to a provider of international humanitarian assistance. It has actively helped many nations in need. Taiwan’s experience can serve as reference to many other nations. Bringing Taiwan into the international disease prevention system will benefit many nations, and help WHO be more effective in its disease prevention efforts.”

INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

Outside the circle but still with lessons to impart THE 71ST World Health Assembly held in Geneva last May.

Taiwan launched its National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme in 1995, and its primary health care network boasts screening times of less than one hour at major hospitals. And while their system, and roll out, could provide some inspiration for local efforts, perhaps the most striking policy is the government’s rigorous commitment to meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs represent an urgent call for global

partnership to end poverty and other deprivations by utilising strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change through preservation and conservation. Taiwan’s strategy is the phased transition to a “circular economy”, an economic system that divests economic growth from resource consumption. This system is being used in Tainan City by the state-owned Taiwan Sugar

Corporation, which expects to open its first residential village run solely from the byproducts of agricultural production with zero waste. TSC is the largest land owner in Taiwan and it has taken the view that its five percent share is public property that will only be leased for usage, not sale, so as not to deprive future generations of its use. The company was among the top five sugar exporters in the world during the early 20th century, now it provides agricultural

support with multi-level public private partnerships with local farmers. “Our civilisation since the industrial revolution has defined growth in GDP terms, and that in itself we believe is the flawed definition of civilization growth,” TSC chairman Charles Huang said. “The linear economy is by design flawed because the profit and the benefits are privatized and the costs and risks are socialized, and circular economy is the solution. “Human beings since industrial revolution, we were taught to define happiness as owning things. We need to own things, the ownership question is also by design a flawed characteristic of linear economy because it encourages the supplier to make products very abundantly. And then most companies, not all but most, design for obsolescence because that’s the only way they can increase their revenue and profit. Mr Huang said: “We need to move away from design for obsolescence, to a product service concept. The consumer only wants to use the product, they don’t need to own it.” Mr Huang pointed to the UN’s Millennium Development Goals as an indicator there was a need to create markers for growth that were more representative of a country’s true progress. “GDP doesn’t measure everything... if the marriage is very happy, if the kids are healthy. The pilot circular village is still being fine

tuned with officials wrestling with how rent will be calculated, and leasing conditions. It also remains to be seen how TSC will tackle its ambitious goal of leasing building materials to be reused. But these are the forward-thinking strategies that can lead to global breakthroughs, and it’s also why collaboration and resource-sharing are so important. “Transforming from a linear economy to circular economy, definitely is a generational challenge but we do think its important that it is done. To change the mindset about what our nation should be thinking about in terms of growth and GDP, is a generational challenge too. Mr Huang said: “When we talk about the transition to circular economy, we are not talking about the end result itself but I think we are focusing on the process by which we persevere. I think that’s the critical part, making sure we have the momentum to continue promoting the concept of a transition from this flawed economic model to a new one, and to persuade people to embrace a different set of growth definition.” It is unlikely Taiwan will find a seat at the table in Geneva when the global forum begins on May 20. But perhaps sovereign states, like The Bahamas and other former allies of Taiwan in the Caribbean, will take the time to examine Taiwan’s lessons to see what they can learn.

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

S

IR Meredith Alister McIntyre was born in Grenada but for much of his life, dedicated to promoting the interests of the Caribbean, few knew his birth place. What they knew was that he belonged to a group of West Indian thinkers whose identity was West Indian and who worked assiduously in the collective interest of the region. Since his passing earlier this month, Caribbean people have heard many well-deserved tributes to him, each recounting aspects of his life that had a common theme – his deep commitment to the Caribbean region. From the 1970s, there was hardly any significant event in the trade, finance and international political experience of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in which Alister McIntyre was not an active participant. Among his many contributions, there are four specific areas that have left an indelible mark on the region’s development. These are: his work as part of the technical support team for the Caribbean negotiators of the 1975 Lomé Convention, the first aid, trade and investment agreement between the European Economic Community (EEC) and the African Caribbean and Pacific Group; his participation as a Commissioner in the historic West Indian Commission (1990-1992) and in the Caribbean Regional Negotiating Machinery; his stewardship of the CARICOM Secretariat as its second Secretary-General (1974-77); and his role as Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (1988-1998). Sir Alister had the dubious distinction of being the only CARICOM Secretary-General under whose tenure, from 1974 to 1977, no Heads of Government meeting was held. Disagreement between Trinidad and Tobago’s Eric Williams on the one hand and Guyana’s Forbes Burnham and Jamaica’s Michael Manley on the other, militated against meetings. Notwithstanding no meeting of the Caribbean leaders, McIntyre held CARICOM together through Ministerial meetings. While others were staying away from the Caribbean house, he kept the lights shining brightly. In his tribute to Sir

INSIGHT

MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2019 PAGE 9

The Caribbean ideals of Alister McIntyre Alister, Sir Shridath Ramphal – a close friend and intellectual collaborator with McIntyre in the cause of Caribbean integration – remarked: “He had devoted his life to Caribbean unity and was already, as he went, worrying over the darkening of the regional scene that threatens.” It would have been heartrending for McIntyre in his twilight years to watch the regional integration project pause and even reverse. In company with Ramphal, William Demas (another iconic Caribbean figure) and political personages such as Jamaica’s P.J. Patterson, Barbados’ Sir Henry Forde and later Owen Arthur, he had helped to construct the foundations for a Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) and had proposed reasoned solutions to the problems of implementing regional decisions. During the short period of his Secretary-Generalship of CARICOM, McIntyre had proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Commission that would comprise a highpowered trio who would implement the decisions of Heads of Government – something, which for the most part, fell through the cracks in the Secretariat for lack of executive authority and resources. His idea was developed by the West Indian Commission on which he served with Ramphal (as Chairman), William Demas and ten other West Indians, distinguished in their fields. The idea, as Ramphal described it in his memoir (Glimpses of a Global Life) was to establish “a small group of some of our best people drawn preferably from public and political life, engaged upon that task of making regional things happen and making things

happen regionally”. While Heads of Government accepted many of the West Indian Commission’s recommendations, contained in the seminal report entitled Time for Action, they rejected the notion of a Caribbean Commission. In the result, the deficit in implementing decisions of CARICOM remain large, causing one of the greatest criticisms of the regional integration project. The Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), another of the proposals of West Indian Commission, did come into being 14 years after it was recommended. At a Heads of Government meeting in Jamaica in 2006 under P.J. Patterson’s leadership, the CSME was launched to provide the foundation from which Caribbean countries and companies could become globally competitive and capitalize on opportunities for market access that could be delivered by joint bargaining with other countries and regions. P.J. Patterson exhorted the gathering of all CARICOM countries at the highest levels “never to abandon that passionate commitment to the full advancement of the region which has allowed us to fulfil this part of the dream today.” Five years afterwards, at a Retreat in Guyana in 2011, the Heads decided to “pause” the single economy process – a decision the Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, described in a letter to the Secretary-General as “sliding backwards” in a dynamic world. Alister McIntyre must have wept, witnessing the dissipation of his labours and that of his fellow West Indian visionaries. Fortunately, with the

advent of Mia Mottley’s leadership, as Prime Minister of Barbados with lead responsibility among CARICOM Heads of Government for CSME, energy and resolve have returned to the process. McIntyre knew from experience learned in the front line of regional bargaining, that, as small states, Caribbean countries need to pool their resources in order to be recognised in the global arena and to give themselves the chance for effective negotiation with countries more powerful than they are. He also knew it was harmonisation of foreign trade policies (and its international politics) by CARICOM countries that allowed Ramphal and Patterson, backed by technical experts such as he, Demas Frank Francis (Jamaica) and O’Neil Lewis (Trinidad and Tobago), to negotiate the best trade, aid and

ALISTER MCINTYRE

acknowledged CARICOM is a community of sovereign states, but he also knew the exercise of individual state sovereignty in alliances with countries outside the Caribbean, weakens the region and, eventually, each state. His credo was: “We do it better when we do it together.” His ideals will live on and they will be kept alive, because they are right, sensible and, in the end, in the region’s interest.

investment deal the Caribbean has ever achieved - the Lomé Convention with the then-EEC. Division within CARICOM on external issues, such as the current failure at the Organisation of American States to sustain a regional identity from which the strength of CARICOM countries derive, would have disappointed McIntyre. He

The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organisation of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and at Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own. Responses and previous commentaries: www. sirronaldsanders.com

PAGE 10 MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2019 By William J Fielding, Director of Institutional Strengthening, University of The Bahamas WHILE the recent trend in The Bahamas is that women are acquiring greater access to higher education, University of The Bahamas (UB) research suggests that in the workplace, women continue to face discrimination in the form of lower incomes when compared with men. Additionally, as a recent Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) report noted, given the high levels of attainment in education, women in The Bahamas have not achieved commensurate representation in leadership and governance of the nation. Grand Bahama native and current UB senior, Alexis Lightbourne, is the Acting President of the Student Government Association, majoring in Architecture and Art. She intends to break the mould. She dreams of becoming an architect, a predominately male focused career path. “I thrive off any challenge in a work environment and I believe my involvement in various activities on campus, voluntarily and academically, have given THE to TRIBUNE me the drive needed harness my creative skills in design, innovation and sustainability,” said Alexis. During her time at UB, Alexis has risen to the top as one of a handful of students selected from the disciplines of Culinary Arts, Art and Architecture to design concepts and create native dishes for Dubai’s Expo 2020. Under the theme, ‘Mobility, Sustainability and Opportunity,’ young adults are encouraged to create solutions to

INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

Alexis determined to break the mould ALEXIS LIGHTBOURNE, Architecture and Art major and Acting President, University of The Bahamas Student Government Association

E3SPORTS

Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 3

GAIN AN EDGE A NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

challenges faced as a small island state. Enhancing student creativity as exposed by the Dubai project and divergent

thinking are keys to the economic development of the country. Encouraging divergent thinking will DIALOGUE require that A NATIONAL ON HIGHER EDUCATIONmanagers, and those in authority, are equipped to harness positively this divergence, so that the most appropriate actions are adopted, irrespective of their origin

GAIN AN EDGE

- even if it means a radical change of a previous policy direction. Meanwhile, for parents, the education of their children typically consumes a great deal of their time as they seek to equip their children for adult life. Given that UB, as an institution of higher

education, sits at the apex of the education system it has great interest in the entire education system, the environment from which students emerge, as well as the participation of its graduates in society post graduation. UB’s research demonstrates the great strides that have taken place since independence in educating an ever-greater percentage of Bahamians to university degree level. This success is noted by the many leadership positions in society now filled by those who attended the College of The Bahamas. Research by UB faculty, published in “Violence in The Bahamas” and the “International Journal of Bahamian Studies,” shows us that success at school - a critical stepping stone to university education - is influenced by the behaviour of adults in households. Violence in homes spills over into antisocial behaviour in schools, which increases the risk of the child failing to complete their high school education. Recent research by UB faculty on sentenced inmates at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services facility at Fox Hill shows that 25 percent of inmates failed to complete their school education. Therefore, as earlier research showed, the home environment has an important role to play in the education of children.

The influences of parental choices can be noted by parents spending more money on educating their daughters than their sons, and in their daughters being more likely to continue their education after high school. While research shows the matrifocal nature of the family, the notion that the “place of a woman is in the home,” is learnt at an early age. Findings such as this will require further research to understand how education can help to counter these attitudes which run the risk of the continued marginalization of women. Alexis though, is determined to not be part of the status quo for women. “I believe through determination there is no stopping what can be produced. I encourage all women to keep on striving because women were built to withstand any trial and bypass all hindrances,” said Alexis.

HOW WE CAN DEAL WITH DAMAGING EMISSIONS

A letter to The Tribune from three pupils.

WE ARE three Grade 8 students from Lyford Cay International School (LCIS). As part of our curriculum, which emphasises community-mindedness and being well rounded, Grade 8 students explain how to take action to address an issue within our community. As part of our community project, we have chosen to spread awareness about how carbon dioxide, other greenhouse gases and harmful emissions produced by burning fossil fuels are harming The Bahamas while highlighting what can be done to fix it. Emissions are being released into our environment causing harm to humans, animals and plants. To mitigate this harm we recommend using biodiesel, hybrid and electric cars. We sent out a survey to parents at our school and only 13.3 percent of them had an electric, hybrid or a biodiesel vehicle. This may be too small a sample of the population of The Bahamas to accurately reflect how many people really have fuel-efficient vehicles, but we would like to see this number increased in our own community so that we can begin to curb our use of fossil fuels and make a positive impact on climate change. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, produced from burning fossil fuels, are accelerating global

THREE of a kind: From the left, Vance Wheaton, Eric Christenson and Xavier Dupuch. warming (Basic Ozone Layer Science, 2018). These atmospheric gases blanket our planet trapping heat radiating from the Earth to Space. The global rise in temperatures is melting polar ice caps and glaciers leading to rising sea levels, worldwide climate change, destruction of animal and plant habitats and weather extremes, such as hurricanes and cyclones (Lockwood, 2019). This will prove to be a global disaster particularly to countries at sea level like The Bahamas, where land area is reducing. Harmful emissions released into our atmosphere are also contributing to the production of acid rain. Acid rain may ruin building structures and cause aluminium

and other harmful chemicals to leach from the soil and into our aquatic environment, killing animal life, fish and plants. Biodiesel is a renewable, cleanburning diesel replacement. Biodiesel is safe to use in virtually all diesel engines and because it has less toxic particulates and greenhouse gas emissions, it has added benefits to human health and the environment. It can potentially increase the life of an engine, it works well with new diesel engine technologies and can lead to better engine performance. Biodiesel produces cleaner air to breathe, creates jobs and improves fuel security (What is Biodiesel, 2016). Biodiesel can be produced from vegetable oils

(e.g. Canola oil), animal oil/fats, tallow, and waste cooking oil. The process used to convert these oils to Biodiesel is called fatty acid methyl esterification. The use of Biodiesel will become greater in the future as it can power boats, cranes, cars, trucks and much more. Electric cars are an alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles. They should be the most driven vehicle in the future and they are becoming progressively more popular. Not only do these cars reduce harm to the environment, but they can also be designed as luxury cars such as those produced by Tesla. There are many ways an individual or family may contribute

to the reduction of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. By doing a few of the following you can help our environment immensely: For your next purchase, consider an electric car. If an electric car is too expensive, consider a hybrid car instead. These cars are half gasoline and half battery powered. This type of vehicle is cheaper and is more “environmentally friendly” compared to cars that run on full gasoline. Consider using solar panels on your house to reduce mainline energy use from fossil fuels. Reduce energy wastage in your home by reducing unnecessary use of air conditioning, switching off devices, lights, etc when not in use, use washing lines instead of tumble driers. Reduce, reuse, recycle! If possible use biodiesel as a replacement for gasoline. You can purchase biodiesel at the local company Bahamas Waste Biodiesel (located on Gladstone Road). This Biodiesel works on any diesel engine. Biodiesel that can be purchased from the local company price is benchmarked, the price of the fuel is based on how much biodiesel is purchased and how often it is purchased. XAVIER DUPUCH, VANCE WHEATON and ERIC CHRISTENSON

Keeping kids safe at home IF YOU determine your child is responsible enough to care for himself/herself when at home alone, he/she should be properly briefed on these rules. · Post a list of emergency numbers including family members, trusted friends, and emergency personnel. · Make sure your child knows his/her phone number and address. Write these on the list of important numbers. It is easy for anyone, especially a child, to panic in an emergency. If included on the list, your child can easily read aloud to a 911 operator in case of emergency. · Keep a First Aid kit in the house. Teach your child basic First Aid. · Make sure there are working smoke detectors on every floor of the house and teach your child what to do in case of a fire. Practise fire drills and evacuation routes with your children.

· Keep a flashlight and batteries in an easily accessible place in case of power outage. · Make sure that your child has a way to contact you when you are away from the home, including a cell phone and/or work number. · Limit the kind of cooking that can be done without adult supervision. · Call and check on your child. Always call and let them know if you are running late. While teaching your child these safety rules, it is important to stress the importance of rules, without unnecessarily instilling fear

Tips for Children · Never let anyone into the house. Do not open the door to strangers. · Use caller-id or an answering machine to screen calls. When answering the phone, never tell callers you are home alone. Tell them your mom/dad is busy and will call them back. · Keep all doors and windows locked. · If coming home to an empty house never enter the house if there are open and/ or broken windows/doors, or other signs of forced entry. · Tell parents of any fears or concerns.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, April 29, 2019, PAGE 11

HALL: CHURCHES MUST BOLDLY DECRY SEXUAL ABUSE

By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net

BISHOP Simeon Hall is calling for churches to “boldly decry” instances of sexual abuse — including within families and between married couples. In a statement released over the weekend, the former Bahamas Christian Council president asserted “rape has very little to do with sexual gratification,” noting the criminal act is instead rooted in a need to exert power and dominate. He added a low view of women combined with men who have an “unbalanced sense of superiority” and an inability to “handle female rejection” contributes to a rise in sexual assault and rape. In response to the plague of sexual violence in the country, Bishop Hall called for victims to stop being blamed for the actions of their attackers — noting this constitutes “a second assault”. He also called for victims to receive counselling and to be given the space and time to heal from their ordeal. “The recent announcement by the commissioner of police, Mr Anthony Ferguson, that a special unit of the Royal Bahamas Police Force will be charged with the primary responsibility of addressing the escalation of rape and sexual assault cases is indeed commendable,” Bishop Hall said. “However, only a total national premium attached to the value and the worth of women will lead to a decline in the ghastly act of rape. “Too many Bahamian men have a low view of

women and too many Bahamian women accept and promote a low selfimage of themselves and of other women,” Bishop Hall continued. “Psychologists tell us that men who have an unbalanced sense of superiority toward women and cannot handle female rejection are more likely to assault them. Rape has very little to do with sexual gratification, but more to do with attempts to dominate and exertion of power.” Bishop Hall called for men to recognise women as being equal in their “intrinsic human worth”. He also listed recommendations for churches’ confidential counselling ministries on how to deal with this matter. “Churches need to talk more openly and honestly about the gift of sex and boldly decry instances of sexual abuse, including among family members and between married couples,” he said. He also called for church leaders not to tell victims and survivors that God allowed such “atrocities” in order to “make them stronger”. “Rape survivors should file a police report as soon as possible. Survivors should also seek medical attention as soon as feasible, even in unfortunate instances where survivors choose not to file a police report immediately or at all. “Church leaders should not cheapen the ordeal by hurriedly telling the victim to forgive their attackers and move on. “Survivors should be given the space and time needed to deal with the physical and emotional

turmoil which accompany their assault, and more importantly the tools to do assist them in doing so.” In February, Bahamas Crisis Centre Director Sandra Dean-Patterson said the Bahamas has an “epidemic” of sexual violence. She referenced the national 2015 “Strategic Plan to Address GenderBased Violence,” which

studied data from 20002013 and found The Bahamas has “the highest incidence of rape per capita in the Caribbean.” The report notes: “The UN Women narrative on genderbased violence in Caribbean cites: ‘While the worldwide average for rape was 15 per 100,000, The Bahamas had an average of 133, St Vincent and the Grenadines 112,

Jamaica 51, Dominica 34, Barbados 25 and Trinidad and Tobago 18.” Last year, police reported a six percent rise in reported rapes, noting there were 55 cases in 2018 compared with 52 in 2017. Meanwhile, marital rape has long been a controversial issue in the Bahamas, with Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell

saying in January that the government can no longer ignore calls for legislation. Last July, Attorney General Carl Bethel said the government would likely not move forward with bringing a Marital Rape Bill to the House of Assembly until sometime this year. Editorial View - Page 4

THE POPE BESTOWS HONOUR ON MARJORIE

POPE Francis has bestowed the honour of Dame of the Pontifical Equestrian Order of Saint Sylvester on a local woman, Marjorie Davis. According to a press release from the Catholic Archdiocese of Nassau, Ms Davis has had an outstanding career as an educator. She rose to the rank of director of education in the Ministry of Education before retiring in 1988. She is also a long-standing parishioner of St Francis Xavier Cathedral. “She has given of her

time, talent and treasure, serving in both Catholic and civic organisations in our community,” the archdiocese noted. “She is an exemplary Catholic and outstanding Bahamian.” The purpose of the Order of Saint Sylvester is to recognise Catholic men and women who have been outstanding in the faith and in their professional duties, the archdiocese added. A date for Ms Davis’ investiture is to be announced.

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THE TRIBUNE

THE EASTER THAT KEEPS ON GIVING YOUNGSTERS enjoying The Office of the Prime Minister’s Post-Easter Egg Hunt. Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, April 29, 2019, PAGE 13

NO MAJOR CHANGES EXPECTED FOR LABOUR DAY PARADE By RIEL MAJOR Tribune Staff Reporter rmajor@tribunemedia.net

UNION officials have said there will be “no real changes” to the upcoming Labour Day Parade following last year’s tragedy, however organisers are working to reduce vehicular traffic on the route, adding marshals will be appointed to promote vehicular safety. Four women died and another 24 suffered injuries stemming from the June 1, 2018 incident By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net PINERIDGE MP Frederick McAlpine has said he abstained from voting in favour of the government’s recently passed Immigration Amendment Bill 2019 because he believes it effectively puts Bahamians in the back seat. It’s not the first time the outspoken MP has gone against his party’s position on matters of national interest. Mr McAlpine told The Tribune he is not xenophobic, but would prefer if Bahamians are given first preference as it relates to economic empowerment. He said if the amendment bill becomes law, it would effectually open the country’s borders to thousands of non-Bahamians, and set them up to gain where Bahamians find it hard. One of the two amendments to the Immigration Act provides for work visa exemptions to visitors for a myriad of professional and commercial purposes. Such people would be allowed to enter the country in 14-day intervals for attending a conference or seminar as a participant, excluding organisers of the event; attending a trade show or summit, excluding organisers or working as a non-executive director of a business being carried out in the Bahamas, among other things. The Bahamas Bar

when a truck mowed into a group of people participating in the parade. At a press conference on Friday, Trade Union Congress General Secretary Tyrone “Rock” Morris said: “There are no real changes but right now it is just reducing vehicular traffic; we won’t be eliminating. One of things we have focused on is safety and having our marshals ensure that the various groups are operated in the manner that promote the safety of the [participants] in the march. We are asking members

to reduce the amount of vehicular traffic at the parade. “It’s really difficult to eliminate because there are various uses that vehicles are needed for, but our marshals have been given the jobs to ensure that persons operating the vehicles operate in a manner that is safe.” Mr Moss also said: “We have addressed the question of safety and the use of vehicles. . .Of course, we wish to get closer to the way parades used to be held years ago which did not require a lot of vehicles, but we are living in

a changing world where things are done differently.” Last year, a man was charged before Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain with four counts of manslaughter by negligence stemming from the incident. It is alleged that on the Friday in question, the man, by means of unlawful harm, negligently caused the deaths of 41-yearold Tabitha Haye, 48-year-old Tami Patrice Gibson, 51-yearold Kathleen Fernander and 55-year-old Dianna Gray-Ferguson.

Shortly after 10am, participants of the annual Labour Day parade were walking north on East Street in the vicinity of Shirley Street, when a green Ford F150 truck, which was a part of the parade, descended the hill towards Shirley Street. The vehicle, which at the time had no driver according to police, ran into a number of people who were a part of the parade, resulting in them receiving injuries. The vehicle came to a stop on hitting a Nissan vehicle, parked in a nearby parking lot.

Amendment puts Bahamas in back seat, says McAlpine

PINERIDGE MP Frederick McAlpine Association has also spoken out against the proposed law changes and said the government did not consult the legal body before bringing the amendment to Parliament. “Basically I am not

comfortable with the government proposing to allow so many people into the country at one time and I think by the thousands,” Mr McAlpine told The Tribune. “I am also thinking that we seem to have this view

when we are bringing in foreigners, I am not xenophobic, but it seems that Bahamians are having a difficulty being able to be Bahamian in their own country. “Why is it that everyone

else could come to this country and succeed, except Bahamians? “It seems like we can’t even get opportunities to get jobs going or to do a business. It’s just very difficult when it comes to Bahamians. “I embrace globalisation, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of causing Bahamians to lose their birthright in a place they were born in and know as home.” The backbench MP further said: “What is to stop for instance down the road a lawyer coming in and doing the legal work for a client? This takes away from the Bahamian lawyers. “What’s to stop stop a future surgeon from coming in and doing a surgery that a Bahamian doctor can do? All he has to do is rent the facilities from Doctors Hospital or anywhere he wants. “And so I think we have to look at the bigger picture. “I’m not saying that we don’t want direct foreign investment but what I am saying is Bahamians have not been given that opportunity. From 1967 to now

we haven’t had economic empowerment. “Give Bahamians an opportunity.” On Thursday the bill passed in the House of Assembly, but only marginally. This is because 17 members of Parliament were absent during the division stage, including opposition representatives Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin, Exuma and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper and Mangrove Cay and South Andros MP Picewell Forbes. Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip “Brave” Davis, Official Opposition leader, was present and was the only member to vote against it. Mr McAlpine abstained from the vote. Two backbench MPs – Golden Isles MP Vaughn Miller and Centreville MP Reece Chipman — were also absent, but re-entered the gallery immediately following vote tallying. It meant that only 19 government MPs voted in favour of the bill’s passage, which now has to be passed in the Senate.

PAGE 14, Monday, April 29, 2019

THE TRIBUNE

GLOBAL MIGRANTS JOURNEY STALLS IN SOUTHERN MEXICO TAPACHULA, Mexico Associated Press

THOUSANDS fleeing conflict or poverty in Nigeria, Cameroon, Bangladesh, Haiti and Cuba have travelled across oceans, through the jungles and mountains of South America, up through Central America, on a route that — so far — ends here: the steamy, crumbling Mexican city of Tapachula, near the Guatemala border. Over 1,500 of them while away the weeks — or months— in a park dotted by giant ceiba trees and vines, awaiting exit visas that never seem to come. Some say they’ve given up hope of reaching the United States and just want papers that will allow them to work in Mexico — but northern

Mexico, where wages are higher. The government is not prepared to grant that, so it keeps them here, waiting. Perhaps for an asylum ruling, perhaps residency status. Their lives are a daily round of boredom, a lack of answers from authorities, dirty, overcrowded bathrooms and insufficient food. Those who still have money sometimes sneak out of the compound by jumping a wall and buying their own groceries to cook over open fires. The international melange of migrants seems to share a taste for rice and lentils, not the tortillas, beans and eggs provided by Mexican authorities. Maureen Meyer, director for Mexico and migrant rights at the Washington Office on Latin

America, said that word quickly spread through international smuggling networks that Mexico had become more permissive for migrants. Attention drawn to the large caravans meandering north to the US last year, combined with Mexico’s fast-track for thousands of humanitarian visas in January, appeared like welcome mats on the global stage. At the same time, it became more difficult for migrants in Asia or Africa to reach Europe. Now the Mexican government is trying to get a better handle on the flows- and perhaps even limit transit visas - amid pressure from President Donald Trump to clamp down on migration to the US. “They didn’t fully assess the messaging of being a more open country,” said Meyer.

A MIGRANT child waits inside the Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid while parents fill out paperwork.

The backlog on Mexico’s southern border also appears, in part, to be a function of budget cuts, as well as the country’s limited capacity to handle large numbers of migrants, especially those from distant countries, some of which lack the infrastructure to handle repatriations. Trump has repeatedly threatened to close the US border with Mexico if the heavy flow of migrants to the U.S. continues. “The Mexican government’s decision to detain as many migrants as possible has made it clear just how many third-country nationals from outside Central America are actually in the country,” said Andrew Selee, president of the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute.

Sri Lanka bans veils for Muslim women AMPARA, Sri Lanka Associated Press

THE effects of Sri Lanka’s Easter suicide bombings reverberated across two faiths yesterday, with Catholics shut out of their churches for fear of new attacks, left with only a televised Mass, and Muslim women ordered to stop wearing veils in public. Many across the nation knelt before their televisions as Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the archbishop of Colombo, delivered a homily before members of the clergy and the country’s leaders in a small chapel at his residence in the capital. The closing of all of Sri Lanka’s Catholic churches — an extraordinary measure unheard of in the church’s centuries on this island off the southern tip of India — came after local officials and the US Embassy in

Colombo warned that more militants remained on the loose with explosives a week after bombings claimed by the Islamic State group and aimed at churches and hotels killed more than 250 people. Before services began, the Islamic State group claimed three militants who blew themselves up Friday night after exchanging fire with police in the country’s east. Investigators sifting through that site and others uncovered a bomb-making operation capable of spreading far more destruction. “This is a time our hearts are tested by the great destruction that took place last Sunday,” Ranjith told those watching across the nation. “This is a time questions such as, does God truly love us, does he have compassion toward us, can arise in human hearts.”

SRI Lankan Catholics pray on a road during a brief holly Mass held outside the exploded St. Anthony’s Church. Later yesterday, President Maithripala Sirisena banned all kinds of face coverings that may conceal

people’s identities. The emergency law, which takes effect today, prevents Muslim women from veiling their faces. The decision came after the Cabinet had proposed laws on face veils at a recent meeting. It had deferred the matter until talks with Islamic clerics could be held, on the advice of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. In a rare show of unity, Sirisena, Wickremesinghe and opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa had attended the Mass in person. Their political rivalry and government dysfunction are blamed for a failure to act upon near-specific information received from foreign intelligence agencies that preceded the bombings, which targeted three churches and three luxury hotels. Police said they had arrested 48 suspects over the last 24 hours as checkpoints mounted by all of Sri Lanka’s security forces sprung up across this country of 21 million people. Those arrested include two men whom authorities recently appealed to the public to locate.

The government also warned that it would crack down on those spreading false information and making inflammatory remarks. Police, meanwhile, entered the main mosque of National Towheed Jamaat on Sunday afternoon, just a day after authorities declared it and another organization terror groups over the bombings. Police entered the mosque, located in Kattankudy in eastern Sri Lanka, and stopped an interview among foreign journalists and mosque officials. Later, a senior police officer dispersed journalists waiting outside, saying authorities were conducting a “cordon and search operation.” Police then left, locking up the mosque just before afternoon prayers were to start. Authorities banned National Towheed Jamaat over its ties to Mohammed Zahran, the alleged mastermind of the Easter Sunday bombings. Zahran and masked others had pledged their loyalty to IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi before carrying out the attacks.

SOCIALISTS WIN IN SPAIN BUT FAR-RIGHT MAKE INROADS MADRID Associated Press SPAIN’S governing Socialists won the country’s national election yesterday but will need the backing of smaller parties to stay in power, while a far-right party rode a groundswell of support to enter the lower house of parliament for the first time in four decades, provisional results showed. Voters in Spain had become disillusioned as the country struggled with a recession, austerity cuts, corruption scandals, the divisive Catalan independence demands and a rise in far-right Spanish nationalism. As a result, after having only two main political parties for decades, Spain’s political landscape has fragmented into five leading parties. With more than 90% of ballots counted, the Socialists led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez won nearly 29% of the vote, capturing 122 seats in the 350-seat Congress of Deputies. The new far-right Vox party made its national breakthrough by capturing about 10% of the vote, which would give it 24 seats. Vox’s success apparently came at the expense of the once-dominant conservative Popular Party, which fell to 65 seats, losing half of its support since the last election in 2016. The conservatives also lost votes to the center-right Citizens party, which will increase its number of seats from 32 to 57. “We told you that we were going to begin a reconquering of Spain and that’s what we have done,” Vox leader Santiago Abascal said, in reference to the 15th-century campaign by the Spanish Catholic Kings to end Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula. Vox general secretary Javier Ortega Smith told supporters that “today is historic” and derided the success of the Socialists. “This is an ephemeral victory, since the left knows that with Vox, their party is over,” Ortega Smith said.

FOUR KILLED WHEN CONSTRUCTION CRANE FALLS FROM BUILDING ONTO BUSY STREET SEATTLE Associated Press A COLLEGE freshman was among four people killed when a construction crane fell from a building and crashed onto one of Seattle’s busiest streets, the university said yesterday. Sarah Wong, who intended to major in nursing, was in a car when the crane fell from a building under construction on Google’s new Seattle campus onto Mercer Street on Saturday afternoon. All four had died by the time firefighters had arrived on Saturday afternoon.. Two were ironworkers who had been inside the crane while the other two were inside a car, Fire Department spokesman Lance Garland said. “While we grieve the sudden and tragic loss of our precious student, we draw comfort from each

FIRE and police crew work to clear the scene in Seattle. other,” SPU’s statement earthquake. Then he saw said. “We ask that the motorists leaving their cars community join us in pray- on a nearby offramp and ing for Sarah’s family and running toward something. Kuin followed them friends during this difficult around a corner and saw a time.” The crane struck six chunk of the crane lying on cars and also injured four top of cars, including three people. Frank Kuin, a that were crushed. “To Montreal-based journal- imagine what happened to ist, was in a Seattle hotel those people who just haplobby when he heard a “big pened to be driving by was bang” and felt the floor quite shocking,” said Kuin, shake. He said he initially who later took photographs thought there had been an from his hotel room.

THE TRIBUNE By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net A WOMAN from Guyana has been arrested by US federal authorities on charges of illegally taking a boatload of undocumented foreigners from The Bahamas to Miami. Marcia Sunita Pestano, 44, was granted a $250,000 bond Friday as an alternative to detention before trial in Miami federal court. Her defence attorney, Marshall Dore Louis, declined to comment about the case. Her arraignment is set for May 7, the Miami Herald reported. Pestano was arrested earlier this week after Homeland Security investigators coordinated an undercover operation targeting the Guyanese woman, who was suspected of directing “alien-smuggling ventures from various third countries through the Bahamas to the United States,” according to a criminal complaint. Deploying such a sting in a human-smuggling investigation is uncommon. On April 14, Pestano met with an undercover agent in The Bahamas to smuggle seven undocumented migrants from Freeport to Miami, the complaint says. She paid $24,900 in U.S. currency and an additional $6,100 in Bahamian dollars to the agent for the illegal trip.

Monday, April 29, 2019, PAGE 15

Guyanese woman accused of smuggling migrants from Bahamas to Florida

The following day, Pestano arranged for the seven aliens to travel by boat to Miami — although she was unaware that the vessel was “surreptitiously operated” by Homeland Security investigators, the complaint said. When the boat arrived in Miami, it was stopped

by federal authorities. However, there were 12 undocumented migrants on board — including the seven whose passage was arranged by Pestano. It was unclear from the complaint why there were 12 passengers on board. At the Coast Guard Station in Miami Beach, U.S.

Border Patrol agents interviewed the dozen people from Caribbean and Latin American countries. They were then transported to the Border Patrol Station in Dania Beach. Between April 16 and April 22, Pestano contacted another undercover agent who was posing as a corrupt

government official. “She sought assistance [from the agent] to get the [seven undocumented aliens] out of immigration detention so that she would not lose the money she was supposed to earn for arranging for them to be smuggled to the United States,” according to the complaint.

Pestano, who went by the name “Julie,” also asked the undercover agent to assist with her own travel to Miami so she could obtain the release of the people from the vessel. On Monday of this week, the agent arranged for Pestano to travel from Nassau to Miami and set up a meeting between her and two Indian nationals at a hotel in Doral, “for what they believed would be an exchange” of money for their release, the complaint says. Homeland Security investigators then detained Pestano and the two Indians, who were not identified. After her arrest, investigators found she possessed $13,000 in U.S. currency and an additional $26,000 in Bahamian and Guyanese currency, the complaint said. The Indians had about $33,950 on them. Pestano was charged with conspiring to encourage and induce aliens to enter the United States in violation of federal law.