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VOLUME:116 No.87, APRIL 30TH, 2019
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WOMAN: DE-STRESSING AFTER YOUR BABY’S BORN Bethel’s warning after Government House murder
We can’t allow this ever again By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel yesterday said the circumstances surrounding the murder of Royal Bahamas Defence Force Petty Officer Philip Perpall at Government House are “disturbing”, adding people should pray that hateful anger and violence forever departs the country. In the aftermath of the 52-year-old veteran officer’s killing, Mr Bethel told senators he was hopeful steps are taken to secure Government House if it is found there was a lapse in security. Police Commissioner
Anthony Ferguson said on Sunday that PO Perpall was in the guard room taking a break along with other marines when a lone assailant entered, and opened fire on all of them there. The incident happened at around 2.30am. PO Perpall was shot multiple times in his upper body. The father of five and a one-time peacekeeper in Haiti died on the scene. The shooter, allegedly also a marine, fled the scene. The commissioner said the perpetrator was pursued but escaped and a person of interest was said to be assisting police with their investigations.
By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday suggested there will be an official crackdown on the sale and use of CBD as he sent a strong warning to businesses and consumers that cannabis-derived products are still illegal. Dr Sands pointed to an uptick in advertisements for products containing cannabidiol or CBD, and
said his ministry has met with both the Customs Department and the Royal Bahamas Police Force to bring them up to speed concerning enforcement. He said: “Notwithstanding the fact that everybody is excited about the fact we’re discussing changes in our approach and that they may have changed the laws in Canada and parts of the US — the Dangerous Drugs Act remains in force.” SEE PAGE TWO
PLASTICS BAN - BE PREPARED By RIEL MAJOR Tribune Staff Reporter rmajor@tribunemedia.net
OFFICIALS from the Ministry of Environment and Housing are calling for business owners to reach out to the ministry to be educated on the impending 2020 ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam. Kendria Ferguson, environmental officer at the Ministry of Environment, encouraged business owners in need of help to reach out for assistance. SEE PAGE SEVEN
SEE PAGE THREE
CANNABIS PRODUCTS ARE ‘STILL ILLEGAL’
FACE-TO-FACE AN ISLAND GIRL WHO SAT AT THE HEAD OF NATION SEE PAGE EIGHT
BIMINI VICTIM OPENED DOOR TO HIS KILLER
ALAIN PEREZ, a Bimini businessman pictured above who was shot to death at the weekend, told a friend before he died that his assailant was wearing dark clothing. Full story - Page 5
DEFICIT TARGET’S ON TRACK By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
MARLON Johnson, the Ministry of Finance’s top official, yesterday voiced optimism that the government will not squander the “$108m headroom” created by the fiscal third quarter’s $40m budget surplus and was well-placed to achieve a full-year deficit target equivalent to 1.8 percent of gross domestic product. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
‘WE’LL FIGHT HARBOUR ISLAND PLAN’ By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
ONE hundred home and business owners are lined up to fight a multimillion-dollar development on Harbour Island, a chief critic of the project claimed yesterday. Developer Michael Wiener has secured an approval-in-principle to expand the size of his Briland Residences & Marina project by five times,
HARBOUR ISLAND angering residents who say they are concerned about impact the project will have
on the environment and the culture of the island. The critic, Ben Simmons, said yesterday: “There is a group of 100 house owners and business owners that have hired legal representation and also have hired a number of experts to analyse environmental impacts given that current documentation provides nothing but more questions.” For his part, Mr Wiener said in an interview
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
SEE PAGE TWO
PETER YOUNG IN THE HORROR OF SRI LANKA, BBC FALLS SHORT SEE PAGE TEN
PAGE 2, Tuesday, April 30, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
CANNABIS PRODUCTS STILL ILLEGAL, WARNS SANDS from page one
“The act recognises CBD and hemp as illegal so whether you think it should be illegal or don’t think it should be illegal, right now it’s illegal. We have not changed any laws.” His comments indicate a shift in tone from earlier this year, when he was asked by The Tibune about the boom in CBD products hitting shelves locally. In March, Dr Sands confirmed there were no licences issued by the Ministry of Health, as required by the Dangerous Drugs
Act, to import cannabisderived products, but stressed it was not his ministry’s job to enforce or intercept goods. Customs Controller Dr Geannine Moss also confirmed recently there were no restrictions on the import of products containing cannabis compound CBD. At the time, Dr Sands said the uptick in local advertisements for topical products containing cannabidiol or CBD represented an inevitable trickle down of global trends. He suggested topical products were not a major cause for concern as more companies
chased the newest natural says,” Dr Sands, pictured health fad. below, continued, “the Yesterday, Dr Sands problem is that if you said: “What’s happening is don’t remind people of people are bringing in all the law, some people will manner of things. So we’ve take advantage of this scemet formally with police nario and they will FRIDAY and [Department of] Cus- claim that it is toms. No hemp, no CBD, ambiguous. no THC, no marijuana, no “It’s not cannabis. No one is going to ambiguous, we i’m lovin’ it! be using unless they already have paneled a have a license to import. marijuana comThose creams, HIGH lotions, 84ºFoint- mission. They’re ments, salves that you see not done with their LOW 75ºF anywhere, if they have been work. It would be imported without a No.85, license absurd of me to have a Volume:116 APRIL 26TH, 2019 then they are illegal.” panel who is working, and “We’re simply remind- then to issue a series of ing people what the law licenses ostensibly around on the books of the Com- them with no regard to monwealth of the Bahamas their deliberation. It means
Business owners & residents line up to oppose plans for Harbour Island from page one yesterday that support for the project among locals has been strong. “We were encouraged to just continue to release additional information to the public so that the misinformation that is circulating, we can provide clarity to it,” he said. The project’s heads of agreement has not been released to the public. “We have a fully executed heads of agreement,” Mr Wiener said. “I was made aware only recently that it has not been presented to the floor of Parliament but it is fully executed. We have a fully approved environmental impact assessment and we have
an environment management plan in place. I’ve spent the last five days on the island and I’d say among local Bahamians the support for the project is definitely overwhelming.” The project was originally slated to be a $45 million investment involving 5.6 acres of land and a marina. The developer wants to expand the project into an exclusive 27-acre waterfront community with 83 residences but has not received official approval yet. “We had a meeting with central government on Friday,” Mr Wiener said. “We were informed that an EIA is not necessary for the subdivision. The EIA would be required in pursuit of the over-water bungalow and/or the canal.”
that I would have presup- and the major active composed the outcome.” pounds in those extracts, The Bahamas National are the cannabinoids CBD, Commission on Marijuana THC, and cannabinol or (BNCM) was expected CBN - which is mildly psyA1MAIN to submit its first draft on choactive with powerful Bahamian attitudes sedative properties. on the controversial Popular uses of CBD Established 1903 plant— the first - which is not psychoactive step in a larger include relief from chronic, debate on the muscle pain, convulsions, prohibition of and inflammation; and the medical and rec- use of CBD oil has become reational use, this immensely popular. month. However, the The Dangerous Drug commission has been Act restricts “every comgranted a three-month exten- pound, manufacture, THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1salt sion, Dr Sands confirmed. derivative, mixture or We d plant or Medical marijuana can preparationek ofen such be prescribed as the whole, resin” unless given a special unprocessed marijuana permit for medical or scienplant or its basic extracts, tific purpose.
The Tribune Weekend
art books theatre film fashion
style gardening puzzles
Thursday, April 18, 2019
history
IT’S ‘ENDGAME’ TIME Pgs 8-10
WEEKEND: ARTIST TAKES TO SEA IN SEARCH FOR HOME
An artist adrift
Paradise lost? Taking to the sea in quest
to discover home page 7
• Harbour Island residents split over marina plan • ‘Boutique’ $45m project explodes in size • Frontman given work permit despite record
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net A HARBOUR Island development is set to become five times larger than initially planned and is sparking outrage from high profile guests and some locals on the island. If the expansion plans are approved, the development will expand across the width of the island, driving fears that the pristine environment and quaint charm of the community will be eroded. As scrutiny intensifies, focus has started to centre on the development’s project manager, Bernard Ross, an American who was convicted of drugrelated crimes in the 1970s and served 11 months in prison. Celebrity Lenny Kravitz, star of the Ministry of Tourism’s recent promotional campaign for The Bahamas, appears to be
among those concerned. “We must respect and preserve Eleuthera and the rest of our islands,” the singer, who has a home on Eleuthera, wrote this month under an Instagram post criticising the advertised expansions. “When we destroy it, we won’t get a second chance.” The project has raised transparency concerns: work began on a marina even though the heads of agreement and an environment impact assessment have not been publicly released. The Tribune obtained the EIA and the environment management plan from the developer yesterday. A government official said the heads of agreement will be tabled in the House of Assembly soon. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis promised the release of the document more than a year ago, but never followed through. SEE PAGE THREE
EXPANSION PLANS: The initial footprint, on the left, and the land the planned development covers now.
‘RESERVES ISSUES HISTORIC SITES DEAL NEED MORE STUDY’ ‘WILL EARN $1.5BN’ By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net
THE Reserves arm of the Royal Bahamas Police Force was used as a “dumping ground” for retired officers, highlighting that management and leadership was a challenge, opposition leader Philip “Brave” Davis has said. While he said he didn’t agree with all of the findings
HOW The Tribune covered the story lastSMITH week The environmental impacts of the bungalows and canal are being studied, he said, with the results expected soon. The heads of agreement calls for the developer to ensure the workforce for the project is 70 percent Bahamian, the developer said. He added: “We would like for the workforce to be 100 percent Bahamian. We committed to the government that it would be 70 percent Bahamian. The extent that we could exceed that number we will.” David Hayes, construction manager for the project, said 100 people will be hired when the project is completed. A $3 million-dollar contract will soon be awarded to a Bahamian company to begin
of a recent report into the division, the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP seemed to side with the Reserves, telling reporters it was clear they had been broadsided by the findings of the investigation which suggested they cheated the public purse. The report further brings to light tensions between the Reserves and the SEE PAGE SEVEN
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
A BAHAMIAN investor group believes it can generate $1.5bn in gross revenues during the 25 years in which it plans to transform key Nassau heritage sites into “world-class” landmarks. Olvin Rees, a member of the Public Private Investments group, yesterday said it planned to invest between
$30-$50m to restore and revitalise many locations. It is aiming to make all the facilities financially selfsustainable by enhancing the visitor experience and pre-selling packages to both cruise ship passengers and hotel tourists, reversing perceptions that Nassau is “boring” with little of interest to do amid “run down” attractions. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
TRIAL WITNESS LOSES PHA CONTRACT
By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
Authority (PHA) before Magic Touch successfully
for the $500,000 annual constructing three marina build- bid He “On the marina contract inadded: 2016, which THE cleaning contract later increased to nearly we’re looking ings, said. building itself, for theofficials Princess Margaret $2m, according to Public Hospital Eye Carephase Hospitals Authority (PHA) “Theand itsfirst of the at approximately 40 employClinic, previously held by Deputy Managing Director Barbara Hanna’s Magic is the marina buildings work ees. On the marina itself, we’re Lyrone Burrows yesterday. A COMIC’S VIEW Touch cleaning company, EBCO’s contract buildings, looking for atis approximately has now been splitthree between buildings that reportedly valued WHY IT’S TIME TO two companies. $422,216.55, while the BARBARA strucHANNA reside on contracts top ofarethe arrival another 50 employees. While their CE contract is valued at FOLLOW THE That US still being vetted,dock EBCO and those three $1,512,496.30,be The Tribune ture or the would the people workCleaning and Cartwright May 1. The split is a return was told. ON MARIJUANA to a former arrangement utiEnterprises (CE) are Harbour masbuildings are the ing with our current marina SEE PAGE TEN SEE PAGE FIVE expected to start work on lised by the Public Hospitals ter’s office, the arrival area and contractor Bahamas Marine the reception area,” Mr Hayes Construction company plus said. “Those bids have been put other trades that will be workout to Harbour Island’s construc- ing on the docks. tion community. We invited a “The construction process total of nine bidders. To date which is not just these three we’ve received four responses small buildings and marina and those bids will be awarded but once you go upwards is 83 and with work expected to start residential units, bar and reson June the& Bahama 1st and that work taurant, a lighthouse which is Nassau Islands’ Leading Newspaper will take approximately seven going to be an iconic feature months so we have the marina for the island and other supitself plus the marina building all port facility. All that work, being complete by the end of this 100 percent will be bid only to calendar year.” Bahamian contractors.”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 30, 2019, PAGE 3 PHOTO: Terrel W Carey Sr/Tribune Staff
MAN, 21, CHARGED WITH MURDER
By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
A 21-YEAR-OLD man was charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday, accused of murdering a 34-year-old father-of-four over the Easter holiday weekend. Chadwick Capron, alias “Oldie”, of McQuay Street, stood before Magistrate Kara Turnquest-Deveaux charged with one count
of murder in connection with the April 22 death. It is alleged that Capron, pictured left, being concerned with others, killed Bryan Smith on the day in question. According to police reports, shortly after midnight on April 22, police responded to reports of a man being shot in the area of Forster Street, Chippingham. Officers at the scene discovered a man with a gunshot
wound. Paramedics were called and attempted to revive the victim, but were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Capron was not required to enter a plea to the charge and the matter was adjourned to May 30 for service of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDCS) in the interim.
We can’t allow this to happen ever again, says Bethel after Government House murder from page one Yesterday, police said they had no new updates to give on this active investigation. “I rise on behalf of the government to express great distress and concern of the Bahamian people about the killing of RBDF Petty Officer Philip Perpall, and the circumstance attendant upon the tragic act,” Mr Bethel said in the Senate yesterday. “It is especially shocking that the alleged assailant is a fellow RBDF member who would have all necessary training. “The loss of any life due to any act of violence, no matter where it occurs is an inherent tragedy, and is to be deeply regretted.” He continued: “The fact that the apparent murder took place on the hallowed ground of Government House, the historical and perpetual centre of our nation state and the official residence of Her Excellency the Governor General, our head of state, and also allegedly amongst members of her security detail – is also particularly disturbing. “We trust that all relevant agencies will in due course take necessary steps to ensure that the law is upheld and that all necessary steps are taken to improve the security of Government House, if it is found that there was in fact any lapses in security. “We as a people should pray that the spirit of irrational and hateful anger and violence will forever depart from our country,” he added. “To the family of the late Petty Officer Perpall, we extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies, and I am sure that that family will be able to count upon the full support of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the Ministry of National Security and every right-thinking Bahamian.” Meanwhile, the Free National Movement issued
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel, top right, was speaking after the shooting of RBDF Petty Officer Philip Perpall, left, at Government House. a statement of condolences and called for unity. The statement read: “The tragic event that took place Sunday morning has shocked our entire country and the FNM mourns for the victim of such a senseless crime. “The FNM gives its deepest condolences to the family of Petty Officer Philip Perpall who served his country for over 30 years, gaining the respect of his peers for his character and his commitment to service. “The FNM would like to thank all of our RBDF personnel, who put their lives on the line every waking moment. We are confident the current investigation will provide answers and ultimately justice. However, today is not a day for politics, and we encourage our friends on the other side of the political aisle to respect this time of mourning and withhold their political rhetoric and to honour the victim and his family.” Democratic National
Alliance Deputy Leader Buscheme Armbrister also released a statement voicing concern. He said the party was deeply concerned by the news of what he called the gruesome murder of PO Perpall. He said as Government House is the official residence of the head of our nation it should enjoy the highest level of security in the land. Mr Armbrister said it was therefore troubling that the hallowed property became a crime scene early on Sunday morning.
PAGE 4, Tuesday, April 30, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
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Don’t get caught by surprise on plastics deadline THE start of January next year will be the end of an era of destruction to the environment. Single-use plastics and Styrofoam are due to be banned from that date – and if that is carried off successfully, it will be a feather in the cap for the government. There is a long way to go, however. After all, our thoughts go to the lack of significant action in the wake of the Persons With Disabilities (Equal Opportunities) Act 2014, which brought a deadline of the end of 2017 for every building used by the public to have easy access for those who are blind, deaf, use a wheelchair or have other disabilities. To this day, many with a disability will tell you there are a host of buildings which still have not offered that access in full. Next time you are in a store – the same stores that will be required to get rid of plastic bags soon – take note of how many have braille labels for products, or have a disabled bathroom that is accessible, or monitor parking areas to ensure spaces for the disabled are only occupied by those entitled to be there. We live in hope, however, and applaud those stores and organisations already making plans for the change. Last week, we wrote about measures taken at Baha Mar to stop the use of plastic straws and use paper instead; Atlantis committing to get rid of their single-use plastic; the Island House phasing out their single-use plastic and Starbucks promising a discount if you bring your own reusable cup. AML Foods – owner of Solomon’s, Fresh Market and Cost Right – are on
target for the 2020 deadline and had been ahead of the game at Fresh Market with a bring-your-own-bag scheme. Rupert Roberts, owner of Super Value, says in today’s Tribune his company is still making preparations, already having biodegradable bags but sourcing items for the salad bar and another few things. Not all stores are as up to speed– with Centreville Food Store owner Tony Miller saying: “We don’t have anything else to put the groceries in” and wanting to know of reusable bags: “Who is going to buy the bags?” The store is presumably paying for the plastic bags it presently uses and it will need to budget for the costs of replacements – rather than look to the government to fund the alternative. That said, there will be stores and businesses who just don’t know what to do – and measures by the Ministry of Environment and Housing to hire an advertising agency to get information into the hands of those who need it are welcome. We would also urge those confused by what to do next to get in touch with those already making strides – as well as the Bahamas Plastic Movement – so that collectively people can take action to meet the deadline. There is no negative to this ban – it will at a fell swoop help to improve our environment and we should work together to reach the finish line at the end of the year. It really is a change that will benefit all of our futures.
So will Trump remember to look into travel? EDITOR, The Tribune COMMENT from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on President Trump keeping his word to look into Travel Advisories…what a joke you really think President Trump remembered? If the Minister was even thinking the US might look into the Advisories issues surely a Diplomatic Note
after the Florida meeting to at least the US Embassy on Queens Street, let alone one to the White House… Minster, then you have proof - possible outside chance for action. Trump don’t remember those small issues. On the Adversaries has there been even one conservation with US Embassy-Nassau? A simple
question: please show us your statistics on crime - on who - by whom and where and when? Foreign Affairs never been of any real importance for most governments with possible exception of Fred Mitchell. W THOMPSON Nassau April 21, 2019
Need to spread money around READERS have been posting their reactions to stories making the news on tribune242.com. After Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest defended the newly passed Immigration Amendment Bill against a backlash, ThisIsOurs posted this comment: “I really think they went the wrong way with this. This was an opportunity for them to build Bahamian-owned and staffed businesses and they just handed it away with the CEB bill. If a company like Apple or Microsoft wanted to set up a location and hire thousands of persons, you could always do something special for them, they do these one time arrangements all the tine for the hotels. But opening up to a hundred mom and pops who will not hire Bahamians for
any significant jobs, get numerous tax concessions, keep their profits in a US account and pay money to the web shops for rent out west . . . it doesn’t achieve any objectives other than to give more money to those with money who already not spreading it around.” On Friday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis introduced a new publicprivate programme to increase Bahamian ownership of government assets. Chucky asked: “How do you increase Bahamian ownership of government
assets? It’s not possible, as if the government owns it, it belongs to all Bahamians. This is just code for wealth transfer to rich friends.” And Truetruebahamian had this to say: “Two things come to mind. 1 – The government buildings are already owned by the people of the Bahamas. They have just been sadly neglected or maintained. 2 – If investing in these is anything like investing in the Bank of Bahamas (BOB) there is absolutely no way anyone could possibly be attracted into investing when the running of and decision making for this idea would be probably left to incompetent friends, family and cronies of any government of the Bahamas.” Don’t miss your chance to join the conversation on tribune242.com.
PLP’s attack out of order EDITOR, The Tribune THE country was shocked to hear of the killing of a Royal Bahamas Defence Force officer at Government House over the weekend. A family has to bear and endure the tragic loss of a loved one. We are all heartbroken. Let us pray for the victim, family of the victim and for all those involved. The family of the alleged killer must also be suffering. Let us pray for them and for the alleged perpetrator. Let us pray for our Defence Force officers. That the killing happened at Government House also shocked the nation. We all want our Governor General, our Prime Minister and all government officials to be protected and to be safe. No matter which political party we support, we want our leaders and their offices and residences to be fully protected. A press conference was held on Sunday to brief the press. The Minister of National Security has promised a full investigation and a review of security at government institutions. Instead of only expressing condolences to the family and the urgent need for a security review,
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net Opposition Leader Philip Davis quickly issued what was mostly a partisan attack on the government. Davis and the PLP tried to use this tragedy to spread their poison, to score political points and to attack the other party. This is disgusting. Many Bahamians have a feeling of revulsion. There seems no low to which the PLP will not sink. This has all the markings of PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell, who seems politically amoral and without principle in using just about any incident or occasion to get back to power. Sadly, Davis seems unaware of or incapable of stopping the harm Mitchell is doing to him, his party and the country by attacking others for the sake of attack. Most Bahamians can see through the PLP’s rabid, mindless attacks without purpose. But in an incident like this tragedy, the PLP went way overboard, using the pain and suffering of others for their own political gain. They must be roundly condemned for this nasty, lowdown behaviour.
The editorial in one of the newspapers rightly stated: “A full security review at major state installations is necessary. Security at these sites in The Bahamas is too laid back. This includes the courts and Parliament. That being said, it is difficult to prevent insider attacks, as this incident appears to be. “A tragedy has left a family mourning and much of the country shocked. Despite the violent crime problem we have had for a decade in New Providence, Bahamians do not expect the word ‘murder’ to ever be in the same sentence as ‘Government House’, the residence of Her Majesty’s representative.” It is too easy to get into the chambers of the houses of parliament. In other countries reporters cannot just rush up and push a microphone in the prime minister’s face. We need better security protocols. Let us use this tragedy to make our country safer, including for government officials. The political use of this tragedy by the PLP is sickening and disgusting. We are Bahamians first, not PLP or FNM. DISGUSTED BAHAMIAN Nassau April 29, 2019
No wonder we’re in a mess EDITOR, The Tribune THIS is a letter regarding the article “Crunch time for NIB payouts”. Just take a walk to NIB offices or any government office and you will get an idea why the country is in such a mess today. More than half of the desks are empty. Unless the desks and computers are there
only for decoration purposes, that means that most of the employees are not at their work stations. Yet you will see some employees around. Chatting with one another, walking around and checking and chatting on their phones. It is truly sad how politicians have manipulated the system for so many years for their benefit and as the
saying goes for the benefit of “their friends, family and lovers”. Civil servants are constantly being hired (peak hiring season is before every election) and yet no politician dares to do the right thing. Stop hiring, because really you don’t need to. HARRY JOHNSON Nassau, April 24, 2019.
Maillis deserves the credit EDITOR, The Tribune I REGRET having to correct the opinion of the Rev C B Moss that he saved Clifton back then…he is incorrect he was Johnny come lately. Attorney Pericles Maillis was the originator who discovered the development plans. He had a copy of the proposals by Chalfont, etc…
I am aware who made the link to a person who at that time was a regular caller to Talk Shows and the proposals for Clifton were exposed - sorry, Rev C B, yes, long after you were connected but originally you were not. For history’s sake let’s ensure correctness. D SMITH Nassau, April 11, 2019
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 30, 2019, PAGE 5
INQUEST BEGINS INTO MAN SHOT AND KILLED BY POLICE By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
THE Coroner’s Court inquest into the death of 20-year-old Deangelo Bodie Wallace, who was shot and killed by police during a shoot-out on Saturday, May 16, 2015, officially got underway with evidence submission yesterday. The inquest began shortly after 11.30am at the Nassau Street
court complex, following the empaneling and swearing in of its five-person jury. The concerned parties in the case are the four officers involved in the matter, Assistant Superintendent of Police Alexander Pierre, Detective Constable 2790 Jara McPhee, Sargent 771 Kenneth Greenslade and Police Constable 2823 Jahmal Rolle and the mother of the deceased, Monique Wallace. The officers are represented by
attorney Kelsey Munroe. According to reports, officers were responding to gunfire in the area of Fort Fincastle and Mason’s Addition when they encountered the deceased, with three other men. Two of the men were arrested after the incident and a fourth man was, at the time of the incident, still being pursued. “Quick action by police has resulted in the arrest of two
suspects who opened fired at them and the fatal shooting of another suspect who also opened fire on police,” a police report relating to the incident noted. Police said they recovered a Glock pistol from the deceased, and an AK-47 assault rifle that was dropped by one of the men who was arrested at the scene. Evidence presented yesterday included photographs taken by crime scene investigators
attached to the Royal Bahamas Police Force. Those photographs — which showed various spent casings, nearby buildings, the deceased’s body, the two firearms recovered at the scene and the fired and unfired bullets relative to them — were yesterday permitted into evidence and described to members of the jury. The case will continue today before Coroner Jeanine Weech-Gomez.
Gunned down when he opened the door By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net BEFORE he died of multiple gunshot wounds in his chest, Alain Perez, owner of Bimini Big John’s Bar and Grill, told his roommate that an unknown person wearing dark clothing was his assailant, according to police on the island. Although investigators have no clue who this person is or where they are, officer-in-charge on the island, Superintendent Henry Rolle said residents and visitors in Bimini have nothing to fear. While he said the investigation is still in the infancy stage, police are sure it was an “isolated” incident. Perez, a Cuban-American and father of three, lived in Bimini for several years. He was 47-years-old. “The person knocked on the door and when he opened it the person engaged him in the gunfire and struck him several times in the chest,” Supt Rolle told The Tribune yesterday. “There were no signs of forced entry.” Asked whether police were concerned the shooter was still on the island, Supt Rolle said there was no evidence to support that line of inquiry. “This is an isolated incident and we haven’t established a motive. There is no need to fear because Bimini is a safe place and has always been a safe place. “So I encourage everyone out there if they have any information to share with police to bring it forward and we will look at it. It’s an active investigation. It’s still fresh and it’s still early to say what is going on, but we are working feverishly to determine what happened.” Perez’s mother and sister
ALAIN PEREZ, main picture and inset left, was the owner of Bimini Big John’s Bar and Grill and he told his roommate that an unknown person wearing dark clothing was his assailant.
KILLER IS STILL AT LARGE BUT POLICE SURE IT WAS AN ISOLATED INCIDENT
were in Bimini where they spoke to police and then flew to the capital yesterday as his body was sent for
an autopsy. According to police, the incident happened shortly after 1am on Sunday. “A male was shot
multiple times in the upper part of his body, while at his residence in Bimini,” police said in a report. “The male victim was taken to the Bimini clinic where he later succumbed to his injuries.” A message was posted to Bimini Big John’s Bar and Grill’s Facebook page where the tragedy was announced. It was shared dozens of times. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce that the heart and soul of Bimini Big John’s has been taken from us too soon,” the post
read. “A Cuban-American immigrant, business owner, son, brother and a father of three was known as the most selfless human being. “We pray for justice and may the memory of Alain Perez live in our hearts and his legacy live on forever. The family thanks everyone for their love and support throughout the difficult time. Rest in peace.” Many expressed shock at the death. One Facebook user commented: “Simply no words. I was in shock when I read the news. May
he RIP. Will have him and his family in our prayers.” “We are all shocked and heartbroken. He will be missed. RIP Alain!” Another person said. “Sending prayers to the family. Met him on one of my trips over there when our group came in for lunch... such a great guy, infectious laugh. RIP,” another post read. Anyone with information is asked to call police in Bimini at 242-347-3144, 919 or the Crime Stoppers hotline at 328-TIPS.
PAGE 6, Tuesday, April 30, 2019
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Potter’s Cay vendors facing crack down on sub-letting By RIEL MAJOR Tribune Staff Reporter rmajor@tribunemedia.net VENDORS at Potter’s Cay Dock are facing a crackdown as officials move to evict owners who sublease their stalls. Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources Dr Linda Moxey-Brown said yesterday subleasing government property is an illegal offence. Dr Moxey-Brown said:
“You cannot sublease government property if it’s leased to you. That’s a no-no…you’re robbing from the government. And you want to charge who you proposing to lease to a zillion dollars a week or day or month, which is totally illegal. For that we can send a lot of people to jail without passing go, but folks need to understand that certain things need to be done and done in decency and order.” Dr Moxey-Brown said if there is a
situation, vendors should come to the ministry and discuss things with her or the permanent secretary to find out what can or can’t be done. She said: “And when you don’t do that, and you go beyond that then you have a problem. As I stated earlier you cannot come to the government for a piece of property and the government is charging you under $50 a month. But for 500 years you have not paid the government $50 a month but yet you find yourself
Full Military Funeral Service For Able Seaman Kennedy Carroll Storr Jr. 31,
of #44 Taylor Drive, Bamboo Town, will be held on Thursday, May 2nd, 2019 at 9:45am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Boyd Road. Officiating will be Monsignor Alfred C. Culmer assisted by: Deacon Peter Jones. Interment will follow in Lakeview Memorial Cemetery, John F. Kennedy Dr.
Left to cherish his fond memories are his Son: Kennedy Carroll Storr III; Mother: Delores Farrington; Father: Kennedy Carroll “Brillo” Storr Sr.; Grandparents: Romeo & Curlene Farrington, Carroll Storr and Vernell Storr; Sisters: Kendii and Elyssa Storr; Brothers: Jamaal Farrington Sr. and Ashland Storr; Sister-in-law: Margaux Amanda Farrington; Aunts: Eloise Whyms, Debbie (Bernard) Higgs, Espree Farrington, Jacqueline (Francois) Borque, Gwendolyn (Paul) Sealy, Carolyn, Donna, Colleen, Chelsea and Jackie Storr, Debbbie Balfour and Maureen Greenslade; Uncles: Vincent, Lawrence and Peter Farrington, Stafford Clarke, Mark and Douglas Storr; Nephews: Jamaal Jr, Jermaine, Joshua, Jayden Farrington and Jaron Knowles; Grand Nephew: Kaiden Farrington; Grand Aunts: Nurse Elsaida Farrington Thompson, Joycelyn Rolle Amanda “Gold Adderley, Iva Smith (West Palm Beach Fla.) and Willamae Mackey (West Palm Beach Fla); Grand Uncles: Reginald Farrington, Jackson and Kenneth Storr (Florida); Cousins: Lieutenant Sidney Whyms (Engineering Officer R.B.D.F.), Sophia Mocombe, Tara (Kensil) Smith, Kyle Garland, Vincent Farrington Jr., Lawrence Jr, Lavardo, Latoya, Lamon and Lorenzo Farrington, Amanda and Deandra Farrington, Anthony Pinder, Ashlee and Anya Farrington, Floyd McKenzie, Linda Clarke, Kenya Thompson, Agnes Farrington, Tanya Tomlyn, Tracy Gardiner, Mr and Mrs. Patrick Mackey, Anton, Granville, and Tishka Moss, Vincent and Shirley Strachan, Elrena, Bethsheba, Pearlimae, Phillip, Jacob, Henry, Adia, Tia, Danielle, Aisha, Carno, Patrick, Dennis (Chief Financial Officer, Doctor’s Hospital), Chrissy, Oman, Nick, Elijah, Jamaal, Javon, Jewel, Dr. Kenya Jones (Orlando Florida), Kendra, Kenva, Theotis, Omar (U.S. Marines), Quinn (U.S. Navy), Camron, Douglas, Precious, Davon, Shalisa, Natassia, Brittany, Glenford, Donovan, Richenda,Rionda, Deandra, Aaron, Kerima, Khalida, Torres, Patrick Rose, Monalisa Rolle, David, Jerry and Terrance Storr, Pebbles, Lisa, Cassandra, Sylvan (Guadaljara Mexico), Bernadette (Abaco), Michelle (Florida), Arnold, Jayda and Jayden, Antoinette (Florida), Cinda, Glenda (Miramar Florida) Bunny (Miramar Florida), Donetta, Antonio, Deja, Donico, Dominic, Aleesha, Cameron, Dillan, Clam, Kimani, Antron, A.J., Jerinique, Jeremy, Jermaine, Candice, Jamaal, Gerard, Terrance Jr., Patwell and Sasha; Godmother: Pastor Helen Rolle; Godchildren: Keiran Meadows, Anya Farrington and Noah Smith; Special Friends: Elisa Gardiner, Shantel Bailey, Raian Budhu, Christy Eldon, Tommy Mackey, Anastacia Burrows, Meliesa Green – who stood at his bedside; A host of other relatives and friends including: Lorraine Hinsey, Sub Lieutenant Ernestine Cleare, Louise Harris, Floricka Davis and family, Ms. Maxine Adderley and Family, Ms. Mr and Mrs. Morris Clarke and Family, M/M Miller and staff of Baycroft Security, Nathaniel Cleare, Mauricio Mr. Calvin Hepburn and family, Ms. Karen Wright and family, M/M Donald Pratt, M/M Roache and family, Ms. Aneka Johnson and family, Ms. Grey and family, Ms. Lillian Adderley and family, Ms. Sylvia Arnett and family, Ms. Lillian Knowles and family, Ms. Delores Wallace and family, Mr and Mrs Weir and family, Commodore Tellis Bethel and officers of The Royal Bahamas Defence Force, ObieCheryl Bowe, Marsha Major and family, Doctors and Nurses of Doctor’s Hospital Intensive Care Unit, Management and Staff of Premier Importer’s Limited, Rev Knights Car Club, Street Runners Track Club, Nathaniel Cleare, St. Joseph’s Church Family, St Joseph’s Senior Choir, St. Joseph’s Ladies Auxillary, House of Pain, Leolions, Donna Moxey, Aquinas College class of 1978, C.V. Bethel Class of 2006, Shantell and Dwayne McKenzie, Bernard Higgs Jr., Lemonye Higgs, Cordesha Armbrister, Tina Ferguson. Kydaisha Pratt, Charles Johnson, Antonion Bullard, Delano Cartwright, Sharon Emya, Melissa Clyde, Lauren Brown, Kimberley Eldon, Latiko Farrington, Dominic Strapp, Rashaun Moss, Wilano McKenzie, Lenisha Rolle, Marvinica Adderley, Delrika Smith, Owen Basden, Orthneil Sands, Jonathan Smith, Alvario Smith, L. Jay Johnson, Regina Stephenson, Gratell Gardiner, Shona Johnson, Bernard Griffen, Brianne Bain, Bryan Scott, Danielle Brown, Theresa Ducatel, Alexiou Clyde, Sidney Wilson, Audrea Clyde, Terrance Cartwright, Don Rahming, Alisha Clyde, Daniel Ford, Troy Gibson, Aaron Munnings, Philip Swaby, Lachelle Major, Terelle Rose, Byron Johnson, Shaquille Sweeting, Keano Newbold, Niquille Pinder, Antonia Hepburn, Don Hudson and Anastacia Dames and many others too numerous to mention. The body will repose in the Blessed Redeemer Chapel at Ferguson’s Funeral Directors, 7th Terrace, Collins Avenue on Wednesday from 10:00am - 5: 00 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 8:45 a.m. until service time.
POTTER’S Cay is famous for its conch salad in a given situation financial or otherwise and you want to bring someone in to manage your stall...but you want them to pay $500 a day for $50 stall. “Then when it comes to the point of you know you’re not doing it right and it comes back to me the ministry. And we find out you’re doing the wrong thing then you want to get upset — it’s too late. You know from the beginning you’re not supposed to do that and hence you have a situation. We cannot do it on Potter’s Cay, and we cannot do it on Arawak Cay which I’m responsible for and I won’t let it happen.” Dr Moxey-Brown said at the moment too many persons are subleasing their stalls and they will all be weeded out in short order. She said: “The government’s money is the government’s money.” Meanwhile, Potter’s Cay Fish, Fruit, and Vegetable Vendors Association President Orminique Bowe is calling for a meeting with Minister of Agriculture Michael Pintard and the dismissal of dock manager Bishop Gregory Minnis. Ms Bowe said: “We come together in solidarity with The Bahamas Docks and Allied Venues Association to talk about this situation happening at Potter’s Cay
Dock. Recently a few of the venders got letters, not even to terminate, saying the leasee in their stalls are now the owners of their stalls. These owners of the stalls were paid up with government. “Yes, we know under the previous administration we couldn’t lease unless we had a letter from them giving us permission to lease. Under this administration they came and said absolutely no leasing. We understand that but they didn’t give people a chance to have people evicted by themselves. They went ahead and entertain the leasee and let them know not to pay the owners anymore and (they’ll) be receiving a letter to own the stall.” Ms Bowe said if the association’s cries aren’t heard its members will stage a demonstration. She said: “We haven’t met with the minister because every time we attempt to send a letter to the minister we have the dock manager that goes ahead and plan these meetings for us speaking about the garbage, stall and things that are not irrelevant. “We have a new manager and he doesn’t want us to get to the minister and I don’t think the minister or the permanent secretary… we don’t that they know exactly what is going on. We need to see the minister
and he needs to give us some answers. He needs to [hear] our cry. “Otherwise we’ll have a demonstration and we’ll close the area down for a few hours. If that is what it’s going to take for us to get their attention, we are willing and able to do so. We are here to stand and fight for the betterment of Potter’s Cay Dock and our vendors.” She said the two vendor associations are in the dark about what is going on, but they were told seven stall owners have been evicted with five more expected to be evicted soon. Dwayne Bastian, president of The Bahamas Docks and Allied Venues Association, said it’s unfair that stalls are being taken away and given to other people. Mr Bastian said: “I guess the manager here on Potter’s Cay Dock had a mandate as to stalls that were rented or leased and I don’t know if they got the proper information on the stalls rented or leased but a lot of people here on the dock struggling and hurting. “The stalls are being taken and given to people…I guess their friends or families and it’s not fair. These people been on Potter’s Cay Dock for years some of them made Potter’s Cay Dock to where it is right now.”
management and the union should receive their certification. “With respect to the managerial union, I am seeking advice, legal advice on that matter. I hope to have it determined by tomorrow,” he continued. “I know there is some constitutional issues involved in terms of workers that do come out and vote and they should get a determination as soon as possible. “So hopefully by the end of business today I will make a determination on the managerial union. I don’t want to get into the evidence on both sides, because the matter may go to court as well as it may not. But I do intend to make a decision today with respect to the managerial union.” Mr Foulkes was also asked how he plans to deal with the issues between the unions, WSC, and Department of Labour. To this, Mr Foulkes said the “respect level” has been restored. “What we are attempting to do and I think the last two weeks it has been a little better in terms of their communication,” he said. “They did have two relatively productive meetings. It seems as if both sides are talking and I think the respect level has been restored. There was a period there where it was a little bit touchy but I believe that both sides now are talking and I’ve encouraged them so to do.
“And my main function as minister of labour is to ensure that both sides respect each other and that both sides negotiate. And the director of labour and my senior officers down at the department, they’re intimately involved with the talks, and Mr Ranford Patterson, who is our labour consultant, he is also involved.” Last week, Labour Director John Pinder said WSMU did not have the two-thirds majority vote required for a strike certificate. During a press conference held Friday, the union disputed his assertion, and WSMU President Ednel Rolle demanded proof of the law or act that lists the correct requirements. Mr Rolle asked: “Is it the Industrial Relations Act or employment law? If the public can’t trust the words and actions of the director of labour, where are we going as a nation? “The director of labour made reference to our constitution for the strike poll. Perhaps he can explain how a meeting for a strike vote is the same as going to the polls. Not every strike poll leads to a strike vote which indicates a strike. A lot of matters are resolved before the members of the union make the ultimate decision. “The WSMU president said that if the director continues to refuse to provide the strike certificates the only option left will be to take the matter to court.
FOULKES SAYS BUSAWU STRIKE VOTE IS LEGAL By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes announced yesterday he has decided to certify the strike vote for the Bahamas Utilities Service and Allied Workers Union which represents line staff at the Water and Sewerage Corporation. However, Mr Foulkes noted he is seeking legal advice regarding the strike vote of the Water and Sewerage Management Union, adding he did not want to “get into evidence” as the matter “may go to court”. Speaking to reporters outside the Senate yesterday morning, Mr Foulkes promised he would sign the BUSAWU certificate and make a decision on WMSU later that day. That meeting of the Senate concluded with the passage of the bills to amend the Securities Industries Act and the Companies Act. “I have reviewed the case put by both the chairman and the management team at (WSC) and also the facts put by both unions and also the representation made by Mr Obie Ferguson on Friday,” Mr Foulkes said. “I have decided to certify the strike vote for the line staff union headed by Mr Dwayne Woods. I will sign those certificates today (Monday). So between today and tomorrow both
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, April 30, 2019, PAGE 7
‘WE WANT TO MAKE LABOUR DAY PARADE SAFE AS WE CAN’ By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net
LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes yesterday underscored the desire to “minimise or eliminate altogether” the possibility of another fatal vehicular accident occurring at this year’s Labour Day parade. Mr Foulkes described the events of the 2018 celebrations, which resulted in the death of four women, as a “tragedy of the greatest proportions”. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Senate, Mr Foulkes said the march is controlled by the trade union movement but added he will be “making an intervention with them”. He added discussions are ongoing to determine “exactly what” the rules will be for this year’s parade. However, the labour minister could not say whether there will be any major changes to the march or whether there are any
plans to pay homage to the victims of last year’s incident. That Labour Day parade was plunged into tragedy on the morning of Friday, June 1, 2018 when a truck mowed through a crowd of people, killing four women and injuring 24 others, according to initial police reports. It was the first time in the country’s 56-year Labour Day celebration history that such an event occurred. When asked his position on security improvements for the 2019 parade, Mr Foulkes said: “We are in discussions with both unions now to determine on exactly what the rules are (going) to be. “I know certain things were said at the press conference on Friday, but what we would like to do is to ensure that we minimise or eliminate the possibility that anybody can be injured either by a vehicle or otherwise. “What happened last year was a tragedy of the greatest proportions and again we wish to extend our condolences to those families.
But this year we would like to minimise or eliminate altogether the possibility of a vehicular accident injuring or causing a fatality on the march.” He added: “The march is controlled by the trade union movement. But as the minster of labour we have a very good relationship with the movement. And they always respect the views of the government. So I will be making an intervention to them. But the march is the trade unions’ — it’s their march.” When asked if participants can expect major changes to the march, Mr Foulkes replied: “Well I cannot say that until they come up with a definitive decision.” He added he could not say whether there are plans to memorialise or pay homage to the victims of last year’s tragedy. Last Friday, Trade Union Congress General Secretary Tyrone “Rock” Morris said there would be “no real changes” to the 2019 parade. Mr Morris said: “There are no real changes but right now it
Prepare for 2020 ban on plastics from page one The environmental officer said documents related to the ban were submitted to Cabinet and ministry officials are waiting for Cabinet’s approval to release all of the information to the public. She said: “The ministry engaged Blue Orchid Advertising Agency to develop our brand with the ban, what the ban is going to look like and to help develop educational material, infographics. They’re helping us develop our public campaign. We are going to start entering the schools to get the kids involved as well as we are doing to get the private sector involved to introduce private sector sponsorship packages.” When asked if she thought The Bahamas would be entirely ready for the 2020 deadline, Ms Ferguson said: “I think we will...the alternatives are already on island. A lot of the wholesalers have already brought them in. A part of our plan
is a reduction on the alternatives, so [Department of Customs officials] have been every helpful putting that together. [Ministry of] Finance has been helpful as well so we think all of that will be approved as is. That will be a great positive for business owners if approved. I think we’ll be all set.” In an interview with The Tribune, Rupert Roberts, owner of the Super Value chain of food stores, said he is still in the process of preparing for the ban. He said: “We use biodegradable [plastic] bags at this time, but we are still trying to find out from the manufacturers when they’ll have the plastic bottles for the salad bar replaced. As of now I won’t be able to speak on further because we are still trying to prepare a few things.” Meanwhile, Tony Miller, Centreville Food Store owner, said his store is still using single-use plastic bags. “We are trying to [prepare] but we don’t have anything else to put the groceries in,” he said. “Right now, we are still using
plastic bags 100 percent. What can we do? We don’t have anything else for the people to put their groceries in. If the [government] was bringing bags, then I would understand. “We don’t need more time, but the people aren’t bringing in the reusable bags. Who is going to buy the bags? We going to have to buy those bags or the people going to have to bring their bags? The bags aren’t free.” Last year, Environment and Housing Minister Romauld Ferreira officially announced his ministry’s initiative to ban single-use plastics and Styrofoam in the country by January 1, 2020. Mr Ferreira also spoke about the long-term health and environment impacts from single-use plastics — such as disposable utensils, straws and shopping bags — and Styrofoam, which contribute to street and ocean litter as well as health disorders when chemicals from these products are leached into food. Editorial View - Page 4
THREE MEN CHARGED WITH FRAUD By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
THREE men were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday, charged in two separate fraud-related cases. In the first case, Javaughn Miller, 28, and Dwight Ferguson, 29, stood before Magistrate Ambrose Armbrister accused of perpetrating a scheme that defrauded a local air conditioning supply company of two air conditioning units between Friday, April 5, and Thursday, April 25. Specifically, according to court dockets, Miller was accused of one count of fraud by false pretences, one count of attempted fraud, six counts of possession of a fraudulent document and three counts of uttering a forged document. The charges stem from Miller’s alleged possession of three forged credit cards
on or around the dates in question. It is claimed that Miller used the forged credit cards to purchase two central air conditioning units, valued at $7,412.34, from Discount Air Condition Supply on Carmichael Road between April 25 and 26. For his part, Ferguson stood accused of one count of receiving relative to his alleged acceptance of those two air conditioners knowing they were obtained under false pretences. Both men were given options to have the matter heard at either the Supreme Court or Magistrate’s Court, with both opting to have the matter heard at the magistrate level. The pair pleaded not guilty to all of the charges and the matter was adjourned to June 25 for trial. The men were remanded to the Department of Correctional Services (BDCS) until that time, or until they are successful in applying to the Supreme Court for bail.
Meanwhile, in the second case, Lorenz Fraser, 23, also stood before Magistrate Ambrose Armbrister accused of one count of possession of a forged document, one count of uttering a forged document and one count of attempt to obtain money through the use of a forged document. It is alleged that Fraser, on November 28, 2018, presented a Green Leaf Mortgage and Financial Services cheque to the Bank of the Bahamas Carmichael Road branch and attempted to obtain $3,000. Fraser was also given the option to have his case heard either at the Supreme Court or Magistrate’s Court, opting for the latter. He pleaded not guilty to all three charges and the matter was adjourned to June 24 for trial. Fraser was also remanded to BDCS until that time. He also has the option of applying to the Supreme Court for bail.
LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes 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. “We have addressed the
SOME shops are already preparing for the plastics ban
question of safety and the use of vehicles. We don’t believe that the accident was a result of vehicles that we use on the parade per se. 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. “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.” Last year, a man was charged before Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain with four counts of manslaughter by negligence stemming from the June 1 incident, which also injured 24 people. The incident led to the deaths of 41-year-old Tabitha Haye, 48-year-old Tami Patrice Gibson, 51-year-old Kathleen Fernander and 55-year-old Dianna Gray-Ferguson.
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ROM Rose’s to Mount Fitzwilliam is one of the best books I have ever read. After completing the nearly 400 pages of rich history and personal reflection, I closed it with the same feeling I had when I arrived at the end of Sir Clifford Darling’s A Bahamian Life Story… a greater sense of responsibility, love of country and impetus to do and be my best. Dame Dr Ivy L Dumont fascinates me with her ability to recall so much of her life in such vivid detail. I felt like I could see the scenes of the quaint settlements of Rose’s and then Deadman’s Cay, Long Island, where she was born and bred. I understood her struggle to adjust when it came time for schooling in New Providence. I related to her commitment to succeed even in the midst of dire circumstances. I was impressed by her ability to continue to pursue and achieve higher education while maintaining her roles as wife and mother. Most of all, I understand why she feels nothing but the grace of God could have laid out her path from a sheltered island girl to the highest seat of government in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, making history as this country’s first-ever female Governor General. I did not get an opportunity to sit face to face with Dame Ivy to prepare this week’s column. I wrote this while awaiting the imminent birth of my daughter. However, I met Dame Ivy on several occasions during my years of active reporting while she served as Governor General. She was a warm, gracious host and exhibits a sense of calm with a smile which reflects that no matter how high she may climb, she remains rooted in her Long Island upbringing. I did, however, have the opportunity to appreciate her life through her book, published by Guanima Press in 2009. My mother and members of the Long Islander’s Association visited her at her home yesterday in commemoration of Long Island Week, which culminates with the Long Islanders’ Association annual fair and raffle on Saturday, May 4 beginning at 12 noon. I encourage each of them, and in fact every Bahamian, to read Dame Ivy’s book. Each school should include her story - and others written by great Bahamians - in their social studies curriculum. This would enrich the students’ lives and give them a greater sense of identity and national responsibility, while instilling pride in their country. I felt connected to Dame Ivy as she shared her Long Island heritage, particularly, her mother’s lineage. Her mother’s parents hailed from south end, just like my mother and her parents. Her mother’s father was Walter Darville, a farmer and catechist of the Anglican church. His wife, Anna Maria, was a Watson before she married him. I am married to a Darville whose grandfather, Virginius Darville, also grew up in Rose’s. And although my last name was Ingraham before marriage, my birth certificate indicates Watson-Ingraham, as my mother’s family is from Gordon’s, Long Island. So, another Watson and Darville has tied the knot in this time. Anna
THE LONG Islanders’ Association members visited Dame Ivy Dumont on Monday to present her with a plaque for Nation Building, a ‘Long Island Strong’ Long Island week T-shirt, a fruit basket and an assortment of jams and jellies from Long Island; presented by Henderson Burrows, Dr Ruth Sumner, Cheryl Deal and president Gina Coakley.
A sheltered island girl who sat at the head of the nation Maria’s brother, William Wallace Winder Watson, is my great grandfather. I learned more about my own lineage through Dame Ivy’s account and for that, I am truly grateful. Dame Ivy is the daughter of Alphonso Tennyson and Cecilia Elizabeth (Liz) Turnquest and is the first of their 14 children. When she was eight years old, the Turnquests left Rose’s to take a 50-mile drive by truck to Deadman’s Cay. Her father was a schoolteacher in Rose’s, but his first assignment as a head teacher sent him to Deadman’s Cay, which is half-way between the northern and southern tips of Long Island. His children, therefore, also transferred from Rose’s Grant-in-Aid School, where he served for nine years, to Buckley’s All Age School, located in the most developed settlement on the island. There, Alphonso and Liz made their home on the Turnquest estate, meaning the young Ivy and her siblings got to know her father’s family a lot better. The Turnquests, originally Tornqvist, came to The Bahamas from Sweden in the late 1700s. Today, it is one of the well known names coming out of Long Island. Long Islanders, from the
time of Ivy’s growing up in the 1930s and 40s up until the present day, are known for their resilience and self sustenance. Their ability to survive and stick together through the most arduous of times is something often commended. We saw those qualities on full display during the passage of Hurricane Joaquin in 2015, which ripped through the southern Bahamas, leaving damage that islanders are still recovering from. In Ivy’s day, her parents had a pressure cooker that allowed them to preserve their farm’s goods, including pigeon peas, carrots, okra and other goods. They also shared the cooker with their neighbours so that others could benefit from having a variety of things to eat when the harvest was small. Neighbours would share their portions of meat and seafood and this way, they helped each other to survive. The women were industrious and made baskets, bags, hats and other items out of silver top palm from nearby ponds. To this day, Long Island is known for having some of the most intricate patterns in the straw craft industry. Women also knew how to sew for their families and others, and a sewing machine was a prized possession. The
LEFT: Reginald and Ivy on their wedding day; above: Ivy’s parents Alphonso Tennyson and Cecilia Elizabeth Turnquest; right: Ivy in London with her children, Chedda and Ivy
young Ivy made herself familiar with her mother’s machine at a very early age and thus, a life-long talent was born – one that ended up becoming a main source of sustenance through her adult years. Being the eldest, Ivy was always a responsible child. In no time, her talents and leadership responsibility were noticed by her school’s principal, Nelson Glanville McFarlane Major who made her a monitor, which is like a teacher’s assistant, at the age of 12. He was a strict disciplinarian with a keen ability of getting the best out of his students, and many Long Islanders successfully passed the examination to attend The Government High School in New Providence upon completion of schooling in Long Island. These students fared well and over the years, Long Island has produced many teachers of a high caliber. Today, the island’s NGM Major High School, named in his honour, continues to produce excellent students who score so well in national examinations that they are nationally recognised. Ivy travelled by sailboat to the capital, where she lived with her grandmother Ida and her aunt in order to attend The Government High. Before her final year, she caught typhoid fever. After a period of hospitalisation, Ivy was sent back to her parents to be cared for. The illness had taken the lives of some young people at the time, while others had suffered mental or physical impairment. Ivy was fortunate to make a full
recovery and continue schooling, although she finished a year later than expected. School has always been important to Dame Ivy. She became a school teacher and offered much to the education system, pioneering some of the processes and procedures that seem commonplace today. While pouring into the lives of Bahamian children, she never lost sight of the importance of educating herself. She obtained her Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD degrees through sheer determination, coupled with a most supportive husband, Mr Reginald Dumont, former police officer with Guyanese roots, who supported her will for advancement in life. With his support and that of family and close friends, her beloved children, Cheddi and Edda were well taken cared-of during her nights of study or need for travel. This support expanded when Dame Ivy’s career led into politics, which was one which she did not set out or aspire for. She witnessed the period in history when The Bahamas became an independent nation, and when women were given the right to vote. She has interacted with most if not all of the nation builders of her time. Her ability to remain focused on matters of national importance and stay oblivious to petty party politics made her well respected by persons from any side of the political divide. Her quiet, calm spirit has worked in her favour throughout her life. Dame Ivy first became the Secretary General of the Free National Movement. When party leader Hubert Ingraham led them to victory in 1992, she was called to serve in his Cabinet as Minister of Health and Environment and leader of Government business in the Senate. She also had an opportunity to serve as Minister of Education, bringing her full circle in her field. Whereas some with political aspirations dream of achieving such posts,
IVY Dumont presenting her book to Governor-General Dame Marguerite Pindling in 2014. Dame Ivy was somewhat reluctant, always wanting to spend more time with family. She attempted to retire to do just that; therefore, she ended up having five retirements in her lifetime. However, she gave in to the calling on her life to give more and do more for her country. She would never imagine that the day would come that Mr Ingraham would ask her to take up the highest seat of government and make Bahamian history as the first female Governor General. During her four-year tenure in Government House, Dame Ivy set these objectives: “*To maintain my relationships with students and youth groups; *To encourage volunteerism; *To emphasise the importance of family; and *To restore, renovate, rehabilitate and redecorate the physical plant with particular reference to public areas of the Residence (Government House)”. She did so with class and grace and on November 30, 2005 at the age of 75, she finally retired with a quiver full of accomplishments and a professional and personal life well-lived. With her dear husband Reginald and beloved son Cheddi now deceased, Dame Ivy remains supported by the love of her daughter, Edda Dumont Adolph, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. This column could only barely scrape the surface of the life of such a phenomenal woman, one who has inspired me to keep a journal as she did, and to achieve more for myself and country.
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N today’s world of instant communication via the internet, news of the horrors of the recent evil and cowardly terrorist attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka will have reached far and wide. The country has had a history of ethnic and religious strife, but its civil war lasting a quarter of a century ended in 2009 when peace was restored – and that may have made the latest atrocities, with more than 250 people losing their lives and so many more injured, all the more painful and distressing for those concerned. Reportedly, the local security forces are hunting for accomplices of the suicide bombers and members of an ISIS terror cell that remains a threat to the island. So it is clear the terrible incidents on Easter Sunday were not isolated and that the authorities are engaged in an ongoing operation to identify militants who might be intent on causing further chaos and destruction. Against this background, I imagine anyone watching developments would agree the immediate need is for other countries to offer not only sympathy but also practical help in response to requests from the Sri Lankan authorities. While the Colombo government’s priority must surely be to impose immediate control and to focus on the continuing danger to the country as well as dealing with the damage already caused to lives and property, it seems an investigation about alleged intelligence failings over prior warning of the attacks will take second place. Seen from afar - and with limited knowledge of the local political situation that looks to be a sensible order of priority. Although some sort of conspiracy to stop intelligence reports from being passed up the
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In the horror of Sri Lanka, the BBC falls short of the mark The Peter Young column chain of command is presumably not impossible, the greater likelihood is that government ministers were not informed because of a breakdown of communications resulting from human error and bureaucratic muddle. In light of this, I wonder whether other observers might have been as concerned as I was about a BBC interview a few days ago with Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister. I thought the interviewer put him on the spot in a condescending and disdainful manner, demanding to know why he was ‘not in the loop’ about intelligence material and whether that demonstrated serious divisions within his government. To my eye, this sort of hectoring was
both ill-informed and inappropriate in the immediate aftermath of the worst violence Sri Lanka has seen since the end of the civil war. The fact that the BBC reporter had arrived in the country just a few days before and had purported to have become an instant expert on Sri Lankan politics only made the situation worse. Deservedly, the BBC has a fine reputation for accurate and comprehensive reporting. It is one of
Britain’s great institutions and people both at home and overseas trust it as a consistent source of reliable information. However, its standing overseas tends to be better than at home where it is accused of Leftwing bias and of taking a political stance on issues rather than sticking to objective journalism. People in other countries are often in awe of the organisation’s unrivalled expertise and professionalism, and perhaps it was
PEOPLE line the street in Sydney, Australia last week during a march celebrating ANZAC Day.
The spirit of Anzac Day remains as strong as ever
partly because of this the Sri Lankan Prime Minister allowed himself to be treated disrespectfully by one of its reporters. Investigative journalism is important in a democracy because it is in the public interest for politicians to be held to account for their actions. But one cannot help thinking that in this case the BBC was seeking to stir up a row to create maximum publicity based on limited evidence. Meanwhile, it is inevitable
A NOTABLE event on the world stage last week was the anniversary of Anzac Day. This is a national day of remembrance for Australia and New Zealand to commemorate and honour the service, courage and sacrifice of generations of members of their armed forces. This year, Prince William travelled to New Zealand to participate in the ceremonies there, while Prince Harry attended a commemoration service at Westminster Abbey in London. The day itself is observed on April 25 because that was the date in 1915, during the First World War, that the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, together with other allied troops, landed on the Gallipoli peninsular as a part of what became known as the Dardanelles campaign. After fierce fighting and heavy casualties in the face of sustained Turkish resistance, this military expedition was eventually
that Sri Lanka’s national security system is less developed than in a country like Britain. In recent years serious terrorist incidents have taken place there – from the horrific attacks in London in 2005 that cost 52 lives and injured more than 700 to the more recent terrible Manchester bombing, to name just two - and there is evidence that other possible attacks have been thwarted by pre-emptive action based on good intelligence. But the British security authorities admit at any one time there could be anything up to several thousand people under surveillance on a watch list of home-grown fanatics and potential terrorists and it is impracticable to check on all of them around the clock. The term ‘war on terror’ was first used by the US government after the 9/11 bombing of the twin towers in 2001. This was later considered to be contentious and a misnomer since terror was not an identifiable enemy in itself against which to wage war but rather a means by which perpetrators sought to achieve their objective of damaging or destroying the US and other Western countries. The threat of terrorism will always exist and it cannot be prevented by military means, though its incidence can be inhibited, and its effects reduced, through action based on sound intelligence reports.
abandoned and the invasion force evacuated. I have a personal interest because my grandfather, who was a colonel in the New Zealand army at the time, was in charge of the Gallipoli evacuation and succeeded in withdrawing the allied forces – under cover of darkness and under the noses of the Turks – without suffering any casualties. Some years later he was placed, as a general, in overall command of New Zealand’s armed forces. It is claimed the involvement in the First World War of the armed forces of Australia and New Zealand and the Anzac spirit forged a powerful sense of national identity in both proud nations. As the Australian Prime Minister said at the Anzac centenary in 2015: “The Gallipoli landing was in an important sense the birth of our nation.” By common consent, the spirit of Anzac Day remains as strong as ever.
A load of hot air - and not just in balloons PROTESTS were relatively limited when Mr Trump paid an official visit to Britain in 2018 and he met The Queen and the Prime Minister and attended various high-profile events. However, the recent announcement of his
three-day state visit in June, during which he will attend ceremonies to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, has already resulted in opposition from those in Britain who claim he is not welcome. They cite a variety
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of reasons, from being a misogynist and racist to vulgar behaviour and even his denial of climate change and global warming - and overall they regard him as a controversial figure who should not be formally honoured by The Queen. A state visit is defined unofficially as a formal visit with the full panoply of ritual and ceremony of a head of state of a foreign country at the invitation of another head of state to show deep friendly relations between the two nations. State visits to Britain have often caused controversy. People may question the desirability of rolling out the red carpet for leaders of nations with whom Britain maintains good relations but whom are regarded by some as unsuitable for this level of recognition because of their unsatisfactory records and the way they rule their own countries. Infamous examples have been Ceausescu of Romania and Mugabe of Zimbabwe as well as, most recently, President Xi Jinping because of China’s notorious human rights record.
THE President Trump blimp in London during his first visit. As an unconventional and divisive leader, Mr Trump provokes strong reactions. But, whatever the personal criticism of him, it is surely right that The Queen should invite him to make a state visit as the elected president of
Britain’s strongest ally – and one of its oldest friends in international affairs - and a major trading partner and leader of the Free World. Nonetheless, one example of the strength of feeling in some quarters is that the leader of
Britain’s opposition Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, has snubbed The Queen’s invitation to a state banquet in Mr Trump’s honour. This unprecedented action by a political leader is shameful in light of the Labour leader’s willingness in the past to meet the Chinese president and Assad of Syria and to consort with terrorist organisations like Hamas, Hezbollah and the IRA. Even worse is the Speaker of the House of Commons is opposed to Mr Trump addressing a joint session of Parliament while, controversially, the Mayor of London has approved a request to float over central London during the visit a giant balloon of a baby Trump figure in diapers. But, to the delight of many, who find this childish, silly and offensive, there has been talk of another group planning to fly a similar inflatable of the Mayor to embarrass him in return! It is in Britain’s national interest to be on the best possible terms with the US, and one can only hope that this visit will be a success despite the inevitable security problems.
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Tuesday, April 30, 2019, PAGE 19
DIRECTOR JOHN SINGLETON DIES AT 51 NEW YORK Associated Press
DIRECTOR John Singleton, who made one of Hollywood’s most memorable debuts with the Oscar-nominated “Boyz N the Hood” and continued over the following decades to probe the lives of black communities in his native Los Angeles and beyond, has died. He was 51. Singleton’s family said yesterday he died after being taken off life support, about two weeks after the director suffered a major stroke. Singleton, pictured
right, was in his early 20s, just out of the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, when he wrote, directed and produced Boyz N the Hood. Based on Singleton’s upbringing and shot in his old neighborhood, the low-budget production starred Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ice Cube and centered on three friends in South Central Los Angeles, where college aspirations competed with the pressures of gang life. Boyz N
COPENHAGEN, Denmark Associated Press A BELUGA whale found with a tight harness that appeared to be Russian made has raised the alarm of Norwegian officials and prompted speculation that the animal may have come from a Russian military facility. Joergen Ree Wiig of the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries says “Equipment St. Petersburg” is written on the harness strap, which features a mount for an action camera.
the Hood was a critical and commercial hit, given a 20-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival and praised as a groundbreaking extension of rap to the big screen, a realistic and compassionate take on race, class, peer pressure and family. Singleton would later call it a “rap album on film.” For many, the 1991 release captured the explosive mood in Los Angeles in the months following the videotaped police beating of Rodney King.
BELUGA WHALE FOUND WITH RUSSIAN HARNESS He said fishermen in Arctic Norway last week reported the tame white cetacean with a tight harness swimming around. On Friday, fisherman Joar Hesten, aided by the Ree Wiig, jumped into the water to remove the harness. Ree Wiig said “people in Norway’s military have shown great interest” in the harness.
IS leader seen for first time in five years BEIRUT Associated Press THE shadowy leader of the Islamic State group claimed to appear for the first time in five years in a video released by the extremist group’s propaganda arm yesterday, acknowledging defeat in the group’s last stronghold in Syria but vowing a “long battle” ahead. The man said to be Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in the video also claimed the Easter Day bombings in Sri Lanka which killed over 250 people were “part of the revenge” that awaits the West. The video released by a media outlet run by the extremists, Al-Furqan, shows al-Baghdadi with a bushy grey and red beard, wearing a black robe with a beige vest and seated on the floor with what appears to be an AK47 rifle propped up next to him. He is speaking with three men seated opposite him whose faces were covered and blotted out. It is his first video appearance since he delivered a sermon at the al-Nuri mosque in the Iraqi city of Mosul in 2014. In that video, he appeared as a black-robed figure with a trimmed black beard to deliver a sermon from the pulpit of the mosque in which he urged Muslims
ABU BAKR AL-BAGHDADI around the world to swear allegiance to the caliphate and obey him as its leader. Since then, he has only released audio messages through the group’s media outlets. In the video, alBaghdadi acknowledged that IS lost the war in the eastern Syrian village of Baghouz, the group’s last sliver of territory, which was captured last month by the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. The fall of Baghouz marked the militants’ territorial defeat and the end of their self-declared Islamic caliphate over parts of Syria and Iraq. Al-Baghdadi said that the battle for Baghouz demonstrated the “barbarism and brutality” of the West and the “courage, steadfastness and resilience of the nation of Islam.” “This steadfastness shocked the hearts of the Crusaders in what increased their rage,” he added.
Referring to the setbacks in battle, he said the “brothers” of the many fallen fighters “will avenge that, as they will not forget as long as they have blood in their veins, and there will be a battle after this one.” Al-Baghdadi called specifically on his followers to intensify attacks on France. He made repeated references to current events, including Benjamin Netanyahu winning the elections in Israel and the fall of longtime dictators Abdelaziz Bouteflika and Omar al-Bashir in Algeria and Sudan. Most significantly, he praised the recent attacks in Sri Lanka which he said have “pleased the hearts of Muslims,” and said it is “part of the revenge that awaits the Crusaders and their followers.” The group has claimed responsibility for the suicide attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka, and investigators are looking into the extent of the extremist group’s involvement with the local radicalized Muslims who carried out the suicide bombings. It is unclear when or where the video was filmed. Al-Baghdadi appeared to be in good health, although he spoke slowly and sometimes haltingly in the video.
MORE RAIN IN MOZAMBIQUE AS DEATH TOLL HITS 38
PEMBA, MOZAMBIQUE Associated Press
MORE rain is forecast for northern Mozambique, where the death toll from Cyclone Kenneth jumped to 38, as flooding and pounding rains hampered efforts to deliver aid to badly hit communities several days after the storm. More flooding is expected in the northeastern port city of Pemba and the surrounding areas. An estimated 160,000 people are at
risk from the second powerful cyclone to hit the southern African nation in just six weeks, officials said. It was the first time in recorded history that two cyclones had targeted Mozambique in a single season. Just as most of the more than 600 deaths from last month’s Cyclone Idai were caused by flooding in the days that followed, heavy rains in the wake of Kenneth have raised fears of a similar scenario. The storm made landfall on Thursday with the force of a Category 4 hurricane.