business@tribunemedia.net
THURSDAY, JULY 5, 2018
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Tourism ‘misses mark’ in loss to beauty queen * RULING LEAVES IT WORSE OFF AGAINST SONGSTRESS * MINISTRY ALTERS DEFENCE TO KHIARA SHERMAN * MINISTER, TOP OFFICIALS TO GIVE EVIDENCE KHIARA SHERMAN
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Ministry of Tourism’s latest bid to dismiss a former Bahamian beauty queen’s breach of contract claim was yesterday rejected by a US judge because it “misses the mark”.
SEE PAGE 4
THE government must “entrench a new culture” within the civil service if the Fiscal Responsibility Bill is to succeed, the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) warned yesterday. The multilateral lender’s assessment of the proposed legislation, led by its Bahamas-based economist Allan Wright, backed the bill as a “bold step” that sets out “clear, sound” deficit, debt
By NEIL HARTNELL and NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporters
B
ALIV’S top executive yesterday hailed its introduction of the latest 4.5G technology as “a regional first”, and said: “We’ve been like an earthquake for the market.” Damian Blackburn, pictured, told Tribune Business that the mobile operator was continuing to “press our foot to the pedal” as it transitions from its start-up/network roll-out phase to
* Companies now getting February mail * Some setting up mail boxes in Florida * Union chief: System at a ‘standstill’
USINESSES yesterday blasted the “really disgraceful” collapse of The Bahamas’ postal system for “killing our economy”, with some revealing they only received February’s mail yesterday. Anthony Howorth, a well-known financial services provider, told Tribune THE OLD GenBusiness that high net eral Post Office worth foreign clients and building, East their intermediaries likely Hill Street. viewed The Bahamas as “a third world country” And Edison Sumner, because their mailings and requests received no reply the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers for three months.
* IDB WARNS CIVIL SERVICE ‘BUY IN’ CRITICAL * BUT BACKS BILL AS NECESSARY ‘BOLD STEP’ * POOR ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS MAY UNDERMINE and spending targets in line with international best practices.
SEE PAGE 6
Aliv: ‘We’ve been like an earthquake’ By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
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Post Office collapse ‘killing our economy’
‘Entrench new culture’ on fiscal responsibility By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
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* HAILS 4.5G LAUNCH AS ‘REGIONAL FIRST’ * PUTS ‘PEDAL TO METAL’ ON APPS, POST-PAID * JUST PAST ‘HALF-WAY’ TO BREAK EVEN focus more on innovation and improving the customer experience. Speaking after Aliv completed its nationwide infrastructure build-out
SEE PAGE 7
Confederation’s (BCCEC) chief executive, disclosed that he knew of Bahamian
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Contractor chief warns over vat mortgage hit By NATARIO MCKENZIE
Tribune Business Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
businesses who had purchased Florida mail boxes and were travelling to the US on a weekly basis as a costly, time-consuming alternative to beating the postal shutdown. Their renewed concerns came as Kingsley Ferguson, the Bahamas Public Service Union’s (BPSU) president, yesterday confirmed that The Bahamas’ postal service has effectively come to a “halt” over the unhealthy, unsafe conditions at the
THE Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said it will “initiate” talks with banks on the rewriting of mortgages to offset the 12 percent VAT hike’s impact. Speaking with Tribune Business following the BCA’s monthly luncheon at Poop Deck West, which featured Keith Worrell from the Department of Inland Revenue’s VAT Unit, Leonard Sands said a conversation will have to take place with the Clearing Banks Association on the matter. He added that while the Minnis administration has
SEE PAGE 4
SEE PAGE 5
PAGE 2, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
NAILING DOWN TRUE FORMS OF CREATIVITY R EVA DEAN, pictured, is quickly becoming a popular household name in our community. This young lady makes magic wherever she goes, using her creative charm and ability to maximum effect. This lady, who wears many hats as a play writer,
author, relationship coach and motivational speaker, has a passion and love for the arts that is unmatched. Creativity is not just her world; it is her signature in every area of life. Nail artistry forms the biggest part of her interest, as she reveals all in this interview here. Q: When did you get
started in the career of nail artistry, and what attracted you to it? A: I got started beautifying nails in 2008, when I attended RNS Nail Institute. My attraction to this craft was the diverse freedom for creativity, making nails and hands beautiful. Also, I desired to become an entrepreneur.
Q: What is a typical day for you like in this field? A: A typical day for me in this business is actually like any other day. It has its ups and downs but I love it. Q: What form of peace, if any, does the art world offer you? A: The form of peace I gain while making decisions with colours is a peace of knowing that I have made someone’s day brighter, and hopefully helped them to gain a higher level of confidence through a rendered service of fabulous nails. Q: Do you prefer freelancing or working for a business? A: Actually both. Freelancing affords me the opportunity of communicating with diverse clients on a “one on one” private setting that is free from the annoyance of a long wait. Freelancing offers a convenient opportunity to walk-in clients. Q: How would you describe your work? A: I describe my work as one of deep passion, freedom of creativity and a source of deliverance. Q: What are your most rewarding and unfulfilling moments when dealing with customers? A: My most rewarding moment gained from the career field is being able to meet people, and offering advice to any issues they are experiencing. Also, I try my level best to provide the best service by creating the most beautiful designs to make them happy. Overall, my clients and I bond through conversations of life experiences each time. Q: Where do you look for creativity?” A: I search inside myself for creativity. And sometimes just observing the type of personality a client has helps me to develop the ideal design. So, being attentive to the likes and dislikes of my customer helps me to better connect to the preferences and
The Art of Graphix BY DEIDRE M BASTIAN
creating the ideal design. Q: How important is originality? A: Originality is extremely important. Every artist desires originality and wishes their master design piece to always “stand out”. Definitely, the artist is happy to stand out as well. For example: People should recognise a popular work and confidently ask: Did Reva Dean do your nails? I do believe that originality is a signature craft that needs much attention and detailed work to become unique. Q: Do you think artists are born or created? A: I honestly believe that artists are born. Actually, my passion is one of making things beautiful. But some people might shy away from the task of becoming a nail technician and simply prefer the comfort of relaxation and being catered to while having their nails decorated. Q: Which do you feel is more important? Good work with bad attitude, or bad attitude and good work? A: I feel good work and good attitude should always work together. Not because you are good at what you do means you should be
SEE PAGE 3
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, July 5, 2018, PAGE 3
Sponge revival delay via Matthew, election By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE impact from a $1.2m project to revive the Andros sponging industry has been “less than anticipated” so far due to Hurricane Matthew and the 2017 general election. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), in an assessment of the project’s progress to-date, said the risk of failure had “increased to medium” as time was running out to execute on all the goals despite the creation of the Bahamas Commercial Spongers Association. “Although progress is seen to be slow, activities are in progress,” the IDB’s project status report for the period to end-June 2017 warned, noting the formal launch in both Mangrove Cay and Red Bays. “Initially the project experienced delays as a result of Hurricane Matthew, which devastated several islands of The Bahamas, including parts of Andros. Further delays were experienced as a result of general elections;
* IDB: PROJECT RISES TO ‘MEDIUM RISK’ * MAY BE INSUFFICIENT TIME FOR ALL GOALS a change of government; change of minister; and now as BAIC await the arrival of the newly-appointed chairman.” That chairman, Michael Foulkes, is now in place, but the IDB report added: “Timelines have been adjusted, project risks continue to be monitored, and adjustments made where necessary. “To-date the project’s risk level has increased to medium as due to our delays there is now a probability that the remaining time may not be sufficient to complete all of the deliverables as planned. “Once completed, a low risk remains that ‘the Association will not be sustainable’. While this does not threaten the execution of the project, it is notable as it is something that constantly requires some level of mitigation as we implement,” the multilateral lending agency continued.
“BAIC continues its commitment to the success of this project, and hence is determined to ensure that all resources are available to ensure its success. Therefore, the likelihood of this project achieving its final objectives remains optimistic.” The three-year project is supposed to result in Bahamian spongers enjoying an average annual sales growth of 17 percent. It is designed to benefit 660 persons on Andros - an island where more than half the households live on under $20,000 per year. A project memorandum, previously obtained by Tribune Business, revealed that Bahamian spongers will be directed towards more sustainable harvesting practices, a move that will benefit 1.4 million hectares of sea floor. And, in June this year, the Bahamas Commercial Spongers Association signed two contracts to lease and renovate a building that will become the sponge processing plant for Mangrove Cay.
NAILING DOWN TRUE FORMS OF CREATIVITY FROM PAGE TWO disrespectful to others. Customers are our first priority, and it is because of them we are successful. So, thank you to my clients. I love you. Q: Despite increased technology do you feel that this industry is growing or declining? A: This industry is developing every day, and there will always be ten fingers and ten toes being brought into this world. When these nails grow up they will always want to glam up. So we could never have enough nails technicians to beautify dulllooking nails. Q: How do your clients view your work? A: My clients love my work. The service and craft of beautifying nails helped me when I was at my lowest point in life. The world of designs and beautifying nails was all I had to ease the pain, and I am very grateful to my clients and thankful for this opportunity.
Q: What are the key things you do to stay on top of your game? A: Some of the key things I do to stay on top of my game are I make it a point to learn new techniques and skills to stay in the game. Q: Any inside secrets about this business you would like to share? A: Respect each other. Keep upgrading and rising as much as you can to be better at everything you are passionate about. Q: What would you say is the magic potion for success in this business? A: As a nail technician, consistency and being focused is key. I have discovered that the instability of moving from one salon to the other can result in the decline of a technician’s clientele. I have also learnt that success requires stability, focus and determination as well. Q: What would you tell young people who are contemplating a profession in this industry?
A: My advice to any young person with a creative instinct or desiring a career in nail artistry is: The sky is not the limit, and there are no limits. Soar as high as you can, stay focused and follow your dreams and, if using your creativity to become a nail technician, then go for it. No apologies required. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories as opposed to regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game. NB: The columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com ABOUT THE COLUMNIST: Deidre Marie Bastian is a professionally trained Graphic Designer/ Marketing Coordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova South Eastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.
Port promotes Freeport’s attraction for call centres THE Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has partnered with Freeportbased business process outsourcing (BPO) operator, itelBPO Solutions, to promote the city for a third consecutive year. The two joined forces at the 19th Annual Customer Contact Week (CCW) conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year’s expo saw, for the first time, a combined advertising push by Caribbean promotional units, including the GBPA’s Invest Grand Bahama; Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA); Jampro Trade & Investment Jamaica; Factories Corporation of Jamaica; and representatives from Haiti and Curacao. These organisations joined forces to highlight the Caribbean’s attraction for BPO providers. Invest Grand Bahama, in particular, highlighted the island’s close proximity to the US eastern seaboard and quality infrastructure in the Caribbean. Sebastian Tickle, itelBPO Solutions’ vicepresident, said: “Since its introduction to Freeport,
DEREK NEWBOLD, GBPA’s senior business development manager; and Sebastian Tickle, itelBPO Solutions, discussing a business opportunity with a potential investor. Grand Bahama, itelBPO continues to grow and deliver voice and digital front-line service for a number of clients. The local market has been favourable, and the level of education and professionalism displayed by the agents is commendable.” Derek Newbold, the GBPA’s senior manager of business development, said:
“Grand Bahama is poised to attract more investment from BPO operators eager to find nearshore outsourcing opportunities in new locations. “Our sophisticated workforce, self-replenishing talent pool, proximity to North America, economic stability, and its established contact centre activity, are a few of the reasons why Grand Bahama’s BPO stakeholders believe its value to both providers and their clients make it a strategic choice to deliver a superb customer experience.” Ian Rolle, the GBPA’s president, added: “Grand Bahama will continue to distinguish itself in the contact centre industry by offering quality agent services from our self-replenishing talent pool, and our skilled labour force that specialises in the tourism, financial services, and logistics industries. “Grand Bahama will also continue to provide stability, investor support and accessibility through our concierge service, in addition to BPO incentives. As a result, Grand Bahama will gain more prominence in the global outsourcing market.”
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PAGE 4, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Tourism ‘misses mark’ in loss to beauty queen
FROM PAGE ONE
Judge Nancy Atlas, sitting in the south Texas federal court, delivered another setback for the Ministry in its ongoing battle with Khiara Sherman, the former Miss Bahamas Universe, by describing its legal arguments as “flawed”. The ruling leaves the Ministry of Tourism in a worse position than after its first attempt to dismiss Mrs Sherman’s lawsuit. It had, in mid-April, persuaded Judge Atlas that Mrs Sherman’s claim for breach of her $130,000 employment contract should be thrown out because she had failed to plead “sufficient facts” to support her case. However, the former beauty queen’s main complaint - that the Ministry of Tourism had violated her copyright by using her song, Fly Away With Me, without permission in its promotional campaigns managed to survive that first challenge. Mrs Sherman and her attorney then filed an “amended complaint”, setting out additional facts and providing supporting
materials, including e-mails detailing the employment negotiations, to back her breach of contract claim. The Ministry of Tourism, seeking to have this dismissed again, argued in legal papers obtained by Tribune Business that the evidence showed it “never executed an employment agreement” with the ex-beauty queen who once represented The Bahamas at the Miss Universe Pageant when it was controlled by now-US president, Donald Trump. Arguing that Mrs Sherman’s e-mail chain did not include the “material terms” of an employment contract, the Ministry of Tourism and its attorneys said this was sufficient grounds for dismissal because the absence of specific “job duties” failed to meet the US “statute of frauds”. Judge Atlas, though, was unpersuaded. She ruled: “According to defendant [Ministry of Tourism], the agreement is subject to the statute of frauds because it has a three-year term, and thus must be evidenced by a writing containing all of its essential terms. “Defendant contends that because the writings attached
to the amended complaint do not contain all material terms of the agreement, namely Sherman’s duties as a marketing representative, her breach of contract claim fails to satisfy the statute of frauds and must be dismissed. Defendant’s theory for dismissal misses the mark.” Judge Atlas said US legal procedure undermined the Ministry of Tourism’s case, as Mrs Sherman’s arguments did not have to meet the “statute of frauds” at the initial stages of the case. She also ruled that the ex-beauty queen had established “a plausible claim” at the pleadings stage. “It is undisputed that for Sherman ultimately to prevail on her breach of contract claim, the [employment] agreement, which Sherman alleges has a three-year term, must comport with the statute of frauds,” Judge Atlas ruled. “Defendant [Ministry of Tourism] argues that because the e-mails and letters Sherman attaches to the amended complaint omit any description of Sherman’s duties as a marketing representative, an alleged ‘essential element’ of an employment agreement
under Texas law, those writings cannot satisfy the statute of frauds and Sherman’s breach of contract claim fails as a matter of law. “Defendant’s reasoning is flawed in that it incorrectly assumes that Sherman is required to satisfy her ultimate burden of definitively establishing the agreement satisfies the statute of frauds at the pleading stage... Sherman can survive a motion to dismiss based on the affirmative defense of the statute of frauds by pleading factual allegations to plausibly suggest that the agreement is evidenced by defendant’s writings containing all of its essential terms.” Judge Atlas ruled that dismissing Mrs Sherman’s claim now would be contrary to settled Texas law, and added: “Defendant’s [Ministry of Tourism] argument that Sherman cannot prove the agreement is evidenced by a writing containing all of its essential terms, including her duties as a marketing representative, is inappropriate at this pre-discovery stage of the litigation.” She also rejected the Ministry of Tourism’s renewed argument that Mrs Sherman’s case again lacked sufficient
supporting facts, finding: “Sherman’s allegations in the amended complaint also support a reasonable inference that Sherman was ready, willing and able to perform her obligations under the Agreement. “Plaintiff Sherman adequately has pleaded the second element under Texas law of her breach of contract claim.” Meanwhile, other legal papers obtained by Tribune Business reveal that Dionisio D’Aguilar, the minister of tourism, and the Ministry’s most senior officials may have to have to give oral evidence as part of the dispute. Apart from the Minister, others named in the list of witnesses to give “oral depositions” are Charles Albury, the Ministry’s permanent secretary, and Joy Jibrilu, the directorgeneral of tourism. The papers also indicate a change of strategy by the Ministry of Tourism in defending itself against the copyright violation complaint by Mrs Sherman and her record company, AK Fortyseven Records. While the Ministry had previously vehemently denied any copyright breach, the two sides’ joint discovery/
case management plan shows it is now claiming “a valid license” allowed it to use the Fly Away With Me song in “two intro bumpers” to promote a Bahamian music festival - thought to be Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival. It is also claiming that Mrs Sherman signed a “release” agreement that exempts the Ministry from any liability, financial or otherwise, for use of the song. “Defendant states that the creation of two intro bumpers to promote a Bahamas music festival was authorised by a valid license,” the Ministry of Tourism alleged. “Moreover, Mrs Sherman entered into a release, indemnification and hold harmless agreement regarding any such promotional activity. “Without waiving the right to assert any argument, claim or defense, the three centrally-disputed issues are: the scope of defendant’s use of Fly Away With Me; whether plaintiffs agreed to license the song for defendant’s use and/or enter into a release, indemnification and hold harmless agreement with respect to the song; and damages, if any.”
Post Office collapse ‘killing our economy’ FROM PAGE ONE main Post Office building on East Hill Street. Responding to claims by some businesses that post office workers have gone on strike, Mr Ferguson denied this but said staff had been directed to work from substations - a situation he
described as virtually useless because everything relied on the headquarters building. Revealing the extent of his frustration, Mr Howorth described the situation - which has been known for months - as getting worse rather than better based on the ordeal he suffered. “I was eventually able
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to get my mail yesterday from the back room where it was put with the parcel collection entries,” he told Tribune Business. “Some of it was dated from April, and some of it was dated from February. “It’s really disgraceful. I can’t understand why the business people on this island accept that we have a Post Office that doesn’t work at all. It’s terrible. I’m getting letters requesting documents to be signed by my clients dated February, from Switzerland, for example. They must think that we’re a third world country that doesn’t reply until three months later.” Mr Howorth said he had personally witnessed persons queuing for an hour outside the Post Office until it opened at 11am,
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hoping cheques and other payments had arrived in the mail or that they could access the Post Office’s savings bank. Pointing out that Bahamian taxpayers were paying for a service that was not being provided, he added: “It’s not good enough. I don’t understand why the Chamber of Commerce is putting up with it and the public is not complaining about it.” Mr Howorth suggested there were numerous unused, empty buildings in the downtown Nassau area that could be used for a makeshift Post Office rather than wait for it to be relocated to the former Phil’s Food Services building on Gladstone Road. Acknowledging that many businesses, and
individual Bahamians, had turned to e-mail and the Internet as alternatives to the postal system when conducting business, he argued that the latter was still needed to receive bank statements and billings, plus send invoices. “It’s really killing our economy,” Mr Howorth told Tribune Business. “There were people up there expecting shipments of product to put in their stores, and one lady said she can’t rely on the post. “She was trying to pick up a parcel, they couldn’t find it, and she said it would have to be re-sent through FedEx and cost her a lot more. The cost and ease of business is getting worse and worse.” Priscilla Hudson, a financial services worker, told
Tribune Business: “We have not received any mail for my own post office box or my job, an offshore bank. I inquired about it because it was very unusual and concerning for a business, in particular, not to have one piece of mail posted. I also followed up because we have invoices due. I have been very cornered about this. There are people expecting very important mail to be delivered.” She added: “When I inquired about what was happening I was told about the condition of the Post Office building, and that the mail sits in the main building and no one is coming to sort the mail out because there is an ongoing strike. As long as that dispute is
SEE PAGE 10
THE TRIBUNE
LABOUR MINISTER MEETS WITH CARNIVAL CRUISES FOR JOBS
Thursday, July 5, 2018, PAGE 5
Contractor chief warns over VAT mortgage hit FROM PAGE ONE
JOB AND training opportunities for Bahamians topped the agenda for the minister of labour, Senator Dion Foulkes, when he met with Carnival Cruise Lines officials in Florida. Mr Foulkes said the government is committed to providing training, and creating job opportunities, for Bahamians on board cruise
lines that come to The Bahamas. There are currently more than 50 Bahamians working aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines vessels, and the ministries of labour, transport and tourism are in talks with Carnival Corporation to achieve the same through the recruitment, training and
employment of hundreds of Bahamian job seekers. Pictured with Mr Foulkes, from left, are Ashley Spencer, Carnival’s senior manager, shipboard talent management; Ann Hsieh, studio supervisor; and Adrian Greystoke, vice-president of operations for shared services.
Bahamians exploit online job service
granted an eight-month VAT “transition” for existing projects, honouring the 7.5 percent rate for developments and construction contracts already underway, the same conditions do not apply relative to financial lenders and mortgages. “The challenge is contracts that were with the bank at a fixed value before July 1, and then entered into after July 1,” Mr Sands said. “It was suggested that we go back to the bank and renegotiate the increased cost. “That conversation of going back to the Clearing Banks Association is going to be a difficult one because they are going to have rewrite a lot of mortgages for the additional value. I think that while it is not impossible, it is something that will have some sort of impact on the customers. We’re not saying that it is impossible, but there definitely has to be a conversation between the Clearing Banks Association and contractors.” Mr Sands added: “There is a grace period until
February 2019 between suppliers and contractors. Goods and services fall within the ambit of VAT. but a financial institution lending you money is a different story. This will have an impact; how much of an impact we can’t say, but you’re talking about sitting down with financial institutions and brokering a deal. We’re hoping to lead that cause.” On this point, Mr Worrell said: “If you are telling me about an arrangement made with the bank to provide financing and the circumstances change, then that person would have to renegotiate. If I’m the consumer, the VAT falls to me. It means now that my position is different. If that was
prior to July 1 that they had a mortgage approved, with a change in the VAT rate it stands to reason the cost would have increased. “If the cost has increased for whatever purpose, VAT or otherwise, that is a determination the bank will have to make with regards to their ability to service the debt. As the contractor you are billing for your goods and services. You have to charge the VAT. It now becomes a consideration because the bank is now financing the original cost plus the increase in VAT you are going to be charging.” Mr Worrell also stressed to contractors the importance of proper record keeping.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE The beautiful luxury 5 star cove resort in Gregory Town, Eleuthera is presently looking for two professional trained and experienced male or female butlers to commence work immediately. Also positions available:
To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394 A YOUNG man uses the Bahamas Skills Bank online as government officials look on. They include, from left: John Pinder, director of labour (acting);
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis; Senator Dion Foulkes, minister of labour; and Marvin Dames, minister of national security, during the official launch
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PAGE 6, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
‘Entrench new culture’ on fiscal responsibility FROM PAGE ONE Yet the IDB paper warned that the Bill’s improved fiscal governance objectives, especially as it relates to greater transparency and accountability, could be endangered unless the main principles and philosophy of such a shift were ingrained in “all members of the public service”. It also emphasised that strong public sector accounting/financial management systems were essential for determining whether the government was meeting the bill’s targets, and called for The Bahamas to “embed contingency provisions for future natural disasters” in the legislation. And, echoing warnings by the private sector and civil society groups, the IDB agreed that the Fiscal Responsibility Bill was not a one-shot cure that will “guarantee sustainability” for The Bahamas’ financial woes. “Fiscal rules and FRFs [Fiscal Responsibility Frameworks] more broadly are not perfect and they certainly are not panaceas,” the IDB paper said, urging The Bahamas to heed the examples of Jamaica and Grenada, both of whom have already implemented such legislation. Both countries have changed their respective laws since they came into effect in 2012 and 2016, respectively, and the IDB suggested their experiences could provide “useful insights” to the Minnis administration as it readies to close consultation on the draft legislation and bring it to Parliament.
“It is crucially important that The Bahamas’ FRL (Fiscal Responsibility legislation) is supported by strong public financial management (PFM) systems. Ideally, the FRL should be accompanied by, or embedded in, PFM legislation,” the IDB urged. “Strong PFM systems allow for the conversion of the intent of the FRL (especially the fiscal rules and targets) into the reality of budget policy and implementation. Of the PFM systems, sound accounting and budgeting systems that are consistent across all government ministries are particularly important to ensure timely monitoring of the fiscal responsibility objectives.” This is one area where the government, through KP Turnquest, deputy prime minister and minister of finance, has admitted it is extremely weak. A $33m IDB-financed project to make critical financial/ accounting system improvements was described as “floundering” by Mr Turnquest in his budget communication, although these charges were rejected by the opposition PLP. The Deputy Prime Minister also blamed such deficiencies for allowing the build-up of the $360m unfunded arrears that underpinned the government’s rationale for the VAT rate hike to 12 percent, arguing that the current cash-based accounting is inadequate to track future spending commitments and assets/liabilities. A shift to accrual-based accounting is planned by 2022. While the Minnis administration has largely adhered to the IDB’s call for
wide-ranging public consultation on the bill, the paper emphasised that obtaining complete civil service “buy in” for its plans is essential. “Public sector employees especially must be familiar with the requirements and provisions of the FRL if its implementation is to be smooth and efficient,” the IDB warned. “Therefore, it would be prudent for the government of The Bahamas to hold orientation sessions for all members of the public service to promote and entrench a new culture of fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability. “It will also be important that orientation sessions be held for the members of the Fiscal Responsibility Council to build their capacity and adequately prepare them to discharge their legislated mandate.” The IDB also called on the government to “seriously consider setting up a contingency fund with legislated governance arrangements” to strengthen The Bahamas’ resilience to major disasters caused by hurricanes. “Given the inherent vulnerability of The Bahamas to natural hazards, it would be important to embed contingency provisions for natural disasters in the FRL,” the bank added. “The IMF, in its Article IV 2018 report, suggested that The Bahamas should create a natural disaster savings fund with a ‘target size between two to four percent of GDP’. “Indeed, explicit governance arrangements for a contingency fund for post-natural disaster rehabilitation would be a welcome addition to
the Fiscal Responsibility Bill 2018. As The Bahamas’ fiscal and economic situation improves over time, it would be prudent for the government to amend the FRL to include an explicit provision for a natural disaster contingency fund.” The IDB paper described the Fiscal Responsibility Bill’s development as “a bold step” but necessary, as The Bahamas’ financial performance in recent years has “drawn attention to the need to entrench fiscal discipline, enhance budget credibility and promote countercyclical fiscal policy”. It pointed out that the central government’s debt-to-GDP ratio stood at around 55 percent in 2017-2018, some five percentage points above the bill’s medium-term target, with annual deficits having soared since the 2008-2009 global recession. “The excessive staffing and operational inefficiencies of stateowned enterprises (SOEs) placed an excessive burden on government transfers, amounting to over 5.8 percent (versus 4.1 percent in fiscal year 2007) of overall GDP or roughly 28 percent of overall
government expenditure by fiscal year 2017-2018,” the IDB added. The Fiscal Responsibility Bill’s two “rules” are a deficit that does not exceed 0.5 per cent of GDP by 2020-2021, and a “cap” that limits the growth of nominal recurrent spending to that of nominal GDP once the deficit target is met. “The stated objectives of The Bahamas’ proposed FRF are sound, unambiguous, and accord with the typical objectives of a standard FRF,” the IDB said. “The objectives are geared toward embedding medium to long-term fiscal sustainability through judicious fiscal management and a solid framework to promote and entrench good fiscal governance. “The Bahamas’ proposed FRF passes the simplicity test because the fiscal variables being constrained (public debt, overall balance, and current expenditure) are clearly defined, uncomplicated, and difficult to manipulate. The medium-term debt anchor is supported by two clear operational rules, which are designed to put public debt on a firm downward trajectory toward its sustainable target.
“The FRF meets the key requirement test because the fiscal rules and targets will be enshrined in law with an independent oversight fiscal council to monitor and report on compliance. Strict enforcement of the FRF provisions will, over time, bolster the credibility of The Bahamas’ rules- based framework.” The IDB added that the bill had sufficient flexibility by allowing for “a moratorium of the fiscal targets and objectives” in the event of a major global recession or natural disaster, while there were compliance and administrative sanctions and penalties to ensure the goals were enforced and adhered to. “The Bahamas’ proposed FRF strikes a good balance between credibility and flexibility to support the deployment of countercyclical fiscal policies when needed,” the bank added. “Overall, the proposed FRF is a solid one and, if implemented as stipulated in the Bill, it will help to entrench fiscal discipline, enhance budget transparency and credibility, and improve fiscal accountability and overall fiscal governance.”
PUBLIC NOTICE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS
REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SOUTHERN RECREATION GROUNDS The Government of The Bahamas through the Ministry of Public Works seeks to engage suitable contractors for Phase 1 of the Redevelopment of the Southern Recreation Grounds located Baillou Hill Road, and Cockburn Street. Schedule for Tender Opening
- CONVENIENCE, PERFORMANCE & STYLE -
Companies interested in tendering may obtain Tender Documents at: Architectural Section Department of Public Works 1st Floor North Wing Ministry of Public Works John F. Kennedy Drive Nassau, Bahamas A compact disc containing the Tender documents may be collected between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. for a non-refundable fee of $25.00 as of Tuesday, 25th June, 2018. Applicants will be responsible to print hard copies of the Tender Documents for their use. Documents are to be completed in accordance with the instructions therein. The non-refundable fee must be paid in cash at the Accounts Section on the 3rd floor of the Ministry of Public Works Building, John F. Kennedy Drive.
TEMPERATURE-CONTROL DRAWERS
All tender bids must include the following: Completed Tender Document Completed pre-qualification document Current Business License, Current National Insurance Compliance Letter Value Added Tax Registrant Number or Tax Identification Number (T.I.N.) Registrant Number. • Current Tax Compliance Certificate. • Proof of ability to obtain Contractors All Risk Insurance for the contract value and period.
WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS
• • • • •
Sealed Tender submissions should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary Ministry Of Public Works and are to be deposited in the Tender Box located at: Tenders Board Ministry of Finance Ground Floor Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield Building West Bay Street Nassau, Bahamas
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THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, July 5, 2018, PAGE 7
Aliv: ‘We’ve been like an earthquake’ FROM PAGE ONE within the two-year deadline set by its licence and industry regulators, Mr Blackburn said premium Apple and Samsung phone users will now enjoy data speeds of between 50-100 megabytes per second (Mbps) through its introduction of the latest 4.5G technology within the last fortnight. He pledged that Aliv will “not stand still”, with the provider concentrating on the roll-out of its “smart phone App agenda” and newly-launched postpaid mobile services for consumers. Mr Blackburn said The Bahamas’ second mobile operator, with 19 full months of trading behind it, was just over “half-way” towards hitting a “break even” position - with industry standards suggesting this is typically reached in a company’s third year. He estimated that the company’s 110,000 subscribers give it a current market share of 32 percent, with more than $200m invested to-date in its network buildout, start-up and customer acquisition. Yet Mr Blackburn argued that Aliv’s biggest achievement to-date was its introduction of competition to a long-standing monopoly, with the company producing “a seismic shift” in consumer choice. Emphasising that the operator is “not resting on our laurels”, he told Tribune Business: “Just in the last couple of weeks we’ve upgraded the network in New Providence and Grand Bahama with 4.5G, known as LTE (Long Term Evolution) Advanced. “You can now get speeds in the 50-100 Mbps range if you’re using an Apple or Samsung premium phone. That’s a regional first. We’re not standing still. We’re pressing our foot to the pedal to make sure our
network stays far superior. That’s a huge thing that we’ve waited for until we were two years in. “We’ve moved our focus from rolling out on every island to enhancing the network speed, building on the foundation we have. The next thing we’re focusing on is the Smart Phone App Agenda.” Mr Blackburn disclosed that this initiative features the Aliv Driver, an app that provides images and maps for well-known locations and places in The Bahamas, and which can be downloaded from both the Google Play and Apple stores. The mobile provider has partnered with the Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation (AMMC) and Bahamas National Trust on the initiative, which is targeted at both the Bahamian and tourist markets. The Aliv chief added that it was also working with Google Street View to capture 360-degree images and views of all roads/streets in The Bahamas, so both locals and visitors can “see the actual place you’re going to”. “It will take a while to upload all those images, but over the next few months want to get images of every known road in The Bahamas and attraction,” Mr Blackburn said. Aliv’s launch in November 2016 broke the Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) long-standing mobile monopoly, and Mr Blackburn argued that this was where the upstart entrant had made the greatest impact by bringing keener prices, improved services and greater choice for Bahamian consumers. “I think it’s been like an earthquake,” he told Tribune Business of Aliv’s arrival. “There’s been a seismic shift in the way people think around choice in telecommunications services in The Bahamas. “We’ve brought a very
different culture and experience to the marketplace, and I think the marketplace has responded very favourably so far. We hope we carry on that way. It’s been an amazing journey; two years since we got the licence and 19 months of trading since the soft launch in November 2016. “We keep pushing forward. We’re not resting on our laurels; we’re tightening our plans and focusing on our next phase - innovation and the customer experience, continually refining our products and services as we go.” Mr Blackburn said Aliv had met the end-June 2018 deadline for completing its nationwide roll-out, launching services in its last location - Ragged Island - last Thursday. The mobile operator now has 232 cellular sites across The Bahamas, with the Aliv chief hailing the completion as “an incredible achievement” given the country’s “geographic complexity”. “We’ve had to overcome many, many challenges, but hats off to the Aliv team for such an incredible achievement,” he added. “The engineering team have done an amazing job, and we’ve delivered what we said we would deliver: A network that has the same quality wherever people in The Bahamas are living.” Mr Blackburn said Aliv had invested around $135m in the physical build-out of its network infrastructure alone, with start-up and subscriber acquisition costs taking this outlay to well over $200m. “We have over 110,000 subscribers now,” he added, “which we think gives us
To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394
32 percent market share. We’re doing well in the pre-paid market, where we launched the Freedom and Liberty plans from the beginning. “We’re doing well in the corporate market, attracting some major corporates since the introduction of number portability, and we just launched consumer post-paid in the last six
weeks, which is a major focus for us now.” Mr Blackburn said Aliv had also been “very successful” with its wireless broadband offering in the Family Islands, adding that the mobile operator was making steady progress towards profitability. “It’s not an exact science,” he told Tribune Business, “but we’re 19 months into
trading now. It’s always said you get into break even territory in year three. We’re just over half-way through that process now. “We’re happy with the progress on the network side, the customer build side, the nationwide roll-out side and have a full suite of products and services aimed at all segments of the market.”
PRESS RELEASE JULY 2018 Marlin Marine appreciates your patronage and we know that the 4.5% increase in VAT is going to hurt. We are offering to pay the additional VAT to all of our valued customers for the ENTIRE MONTH OF JULY when you purchase a NEW GENERAC GENERATOR, EZ GO GOLF CART, and/or CUSHMAN GOLF CART. Contact our sales department today for this tremendous savings! Marlin Marine Sales Team Office: 242-393-7873 Email: bayshoremarina@hotmail.com Address: #64 East Bay Street Nassau, Bahamas
PAGE 10, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Post Office collapse ‘killing our economy’ An entrepreneurial spirit, original thinking, and a passion to succeed. If you have it, we want you. We are growing! Fidelity invites applications for the position of:
Recruiter To find the best and brightest talent to join our team. We provide a challenging, driven, results-oriented environment where creative, goal-oriented, self-confident, high achievers succeed.
Main Duties & Responsibilities: • Managing all stages of the hiring process including candidate sourcing, screening, interviewing, negotiating, extending offers, securing new hire acceptances, background checks and completing post hire follow ups • Evaluating candidate's work history, education, training, job skills, compensation requirements, and abilities • Creating internal and external job posting • Documenting and tracking statistics and data pertinent to each position • Solid understanding of employment law, recruitment, staffing metrics and HR related practices • Preparing assigned monthly, quarterly and annual HR reports • Demonstrated ability to manage high volume of recruitment within strict scheduling requirements • Keeping abreast of current market trends and identify potential impacts on hiring decisions • Maintaining a network of potential hires in advance of requisitioned needs • Conducting regular follow-up with managers to determine the effectiveness of recruiting plans and implementation • Assisting with benefits administration
Requirements / Qualifications: • 3-5 years of recruiting experience a must • Strong analytical skills • Excellent communication skills both oral and written • Ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment • Excellent administrative skills and proficiencies in Microsoft Office Suite Programs • Ability to work in a self-motivated environment with little supervision • Strong leadership abilities • Analytical with strong negotiation skills • Efficient and detail oriented • Must be able to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner. PLEASE SUBMIT BEFORE July 13th, 2018 to:
HUMAN RESOURCES Re: Recruiter careers@fidelitybahamas.com
ABSOLUTELY NO PHONE CALLS
A competitive compensation package will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualification. Fidelity appreciates your interest, however, only those applicants short listed will be contacted.
FROM PAGE FOUR not solved there will be no mail deliveries, I was told. “I have not seen anything recently to make the public aware of this situation. We have bills to pay individually, and I am sure businesses are being affected. I understand the reasons for the strike and the fact that the building has issues, but how can customers not get regular mail delivered? Today, everything affects the bottom line. This issue has to be resolved.” Mr Sumner acknowledged that the postal system breakdown was “still a concern, still an issue that persists”, although the Chamber had not received “as many complaints in recent times”. Calling for the government to address the situation “immediately”, Mr Sumner said the postal system needed to operate more efficiently - possibly through a public-private partnership (PPP) where a private company took over responsibility for the Post Office’s operations and management. He revealed that former minister of transport, Frankie Campbell, had given a presentation to the recent National Chambers of Commerce conclave and reassured that the government was “working towards correcting the postal system in the country”. There has been little tangible sign of this yet, and Mr Sumner acknowledged that it was disrupting commerce in The Bahamas
despite the shift to electronic communications alternatives. “There’s still a heavy reliance on having the hand delivery of mail, which is causing people to look at alternative means,” he told Tribune Business. “People are setting up mail boxes in Florida, and they are flying over there once a week to bring mail back into the country. “It’s far from ideal, but when you have a company to run you cannot wait on the mail. There’s payments caught up in the mail, important documents caught up in the mail, so companies are only doing what is necessary.” Mr Sumner said the impact in the Family Islands was far worse, and he argued that the government could not wait on the move to the Phil’s Food Services property as this was a long-term fix. He suggested attention needed to be paid on fixing the flaws at the main Post Office building, adding: “When I was there several weeks ago, paying for my box and an existing service, I could not stay in there for more than 15 minutes. It was hot, humid and there was an awful scent.” The BPSU’s Mr Ferguson told Tribune Business: “The workers are not on strike, but it was the decision of the minister to move persons from the general Post Office because of the working environment. They have now been directed to work from the substations. “However, nothing can be done without the inclusion of the general post
office because that is where everything is disseminated from. The workers are just there. The general Post Office is closed, Cable Beach is closed and South Beach is in a terrible condition, although persons are there. We are trying to get the situation there rectified because they are without water and air-conditioning, and the number of persons there have now increased. That’s where we are now.” Mr Ferguson added: “The postal service has basically come to a standstill. No Family Islands can receive any mail because it’s normally disseminated from the general Post Office. The actual savings bank that assists persons in the Family Islands to receive funding has been closed as well. “The workers just show up to work. We have been trying to get a response from the minister on what will happen moving forward, and how quickly we can have it resolved, so persons can really get back to work. The minister was unable to give us a definitive response.” The Tribune reported back in May that the government had taken legal possession of the old Phil’s Food Services building on Gladstone Road, which was to be renovated for the General Post Office’s relocation. “My understanding is they have taken possession of that building, but since that time someone has vandalised the building and whatever the cost to refurbish it for the Post Office has now been increased,” said Mr Ferguson.
PUBLIC HOSPITALS AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT VACANCY ASSISTANT FINANCIAL CONTROLLER GRAND BAHAMA HEALTH SERVICES The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Assistant Financial Controller, Grand Bahama Health Services. Applicants must possess the following qualifications: • Professional qualification from a recognized accounting body, namely, The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, designation CPA; The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants designation (ACCA), or The Institutes of Chartered Accountants, U.K. or Canada,designation CA or The Certified General Accountants Association of Canada, designation CGA ; OR a minimum of eight (8) years relevant post professional qualifications OR professional qualifications and at least (2) years experience as Finance & Accounting Officer 1; OR CIA with at least four (4) years experience as Finance & Accounting Officer 1; OR MBA, MA with at least five (5) years experience as Finance & Accounting Officer 1; OR BSc, BA, BBA with at least six (6) years as Finance & Accounting Officer 1; • Excellent leadership, organizational and interpersonal skills; • Excellent communication skills (oral and written); • Excellent analytical and conceptual thinking skills; • Excellent computer skills; The Assistant Financial Controller will report to the Financial Controller of the Grand Bahama Health Services . JOB SUMMARY: The Assistant Financial Controller will work in collaboration with the Financial Controller for determining and allocating functional resources, researching and developing systems and controls based on function requirements and contributing information, analysis and recommendations to the Executive Management Committee. DUTIES: 1. BY: • • •
SUPPORTS FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OPERATIONAL STRATEGIES Evaluating existing systems and controls; Preparing critical performance measurements; Analyzing information trends;
2. BY: • • •
PROVIDES CRITICAL INFORMATION
3. BY: •
MANAGES FUNCTIONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
• • •
Preparing reports of function accomplishments, performance and status; Coordinating financial plans and actions with departments; Examining and resolving discrepancies and anomalies;
Supervising payroll function including ensuring accuracy of information and ensuring compliance with the Public Hospitals Authority’s policies and procedures; Supervising accounts payable function, ensuring accuracy of processing as regards amount, supplier and terms of payment: Ensure that all invoices and payments are processed and coded according to the Public Hospitals Authority’s Financial rules and regulations; Monitoring business office activities including accurate recording, invoicing and collection of revenues;
4. BY: •
MANAGES WORKLOAD AND RESOURCES TO ACHIEVE DESIRED OUTCOMES
•
Assisting the Financial Controller with the IT Program implementations, recruitment, selection, orientation, training, coaching, counseling, disciplinary, and communication programs;
Planning, monitoring, appraising, and reviewing accomplishment of job results using required reports and submission schedules, including annual job plans, time allocation reports and results-oriented task lists;
Letters of application and curriculum vitae should be submitted to the Director of Human Resources, Corporate Office, Public Hospitals Authority, Third and West Terraces, Centreville; or P.O. Box N-8200, Nassau, Bahamas no later than 13th July, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, July 5, 2018, PAGE 11
Poland’s isolation deepens as Supreme Court law takes effect
WARSAW, POLAND Associated Press POLAND’S international isolation and political uncertainty at home deepened on yesterday as a purge of the Supreme Court’s justices took effect, with the chief justice defiantly refusing to step down. First President Malgorzata Gersdorf arrived for work as usual at the court in Warsaw, vowing to continue her constitutionally mandated term, which runs through 2020. The court’s judges support this view. A large crowd of antigovernment protesters cheered Gersdorf on and vowed to defend the constitutional order and fight what they see as the erosion of their democratic system. Protesters gathered again at night in Warsaw and in another cities, with Lech Walesa, the legendary pro-democracy activist and Solidarity leader of the 1980s, addressing the cheering crowd in front of the Supreme Court building. “He who breaks the constitution and the division of powers is a criminal, they are criminals,” he said. “We must do everything to send these people away and vote to choose different people.” While Gersdorf was allowed in to the modern glass Supreme Court building in Warsaw and oversaw a meeting with other judges, it was not clear how she could continue in her role following a new law that lowers the mandatory retirement age to 65 from the previous 70. Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the ruling party leader, said in an interview published yesterday by the Gazeta Polska daily that the judges’ “action” will result in “shameful disaster” for them. An adviser to President Andrzej Duda insisted Gersdorf has no choice but to step down. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki faced a grilling in the European Parliament for what many European lawmakers see as Poland’s violations of democratic standards with a broader overhaul of the judiciary that gives the ruling party vast political control over courts and judges. Manfred Weber, a German member of the
conservative European People’s Party group, hailed Poland’s great democratic legacy, praising the ten million Poles who joined Solidarity in the struggle against communism in the 1980s. “Their great achievement — a sovereign, democratic Poland — is at stake today,” Weber said. He also mentioned the ruling party’s transformation of state media into a propaganda tool and the prosecution of peaceful anti-government protesters, even as authorities have failed to act against nationalists who had attacked protesters. Socialist leader Udo Bullmann praised Gersdorf for defending the Polish constitution, and criticised Morawiecki for dismantling “the last bastion of the judiciary in Poland”. Guy Verhofstadt, president of an alliance of liberals, said that putting judges under political control was reminiscent of Soviet practices and that Poland should abandon its “illiberal” illusions. “I ask you personally, really, to turn the wheel and bring Poland back into the family of democratic nations,” Verhofstadt told Morawiecki. Morawiecki defended the changes the populist Law and Justice party has brought to the justice system, insisting his government is working to make judges more accountable to the democratic will of the people and that Poland’s democracy “has never been as alive as it is today”. Though calm, he did not take the criticism well. “We are a proud nation and we know the price of freedom,” he said. “It is not good when proud nations are being lectured to by others, because that produces deadlocks.” Speaking later to reporters he insisted the forced retirements were “perfectly in line with the constitution”. In the debate, Morawiecki also got support from some who backed Warsaw’s arguments that an overreaching EU was meddling in a sovereign state’s internal affairs. The new law is forcing approximately one-third of the court’s 73 sitting judges to step down, unless
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they obtain special permission from the president to remain. After having taken control of common courts and the constitutional court, Law and Justice now takes control of the top court,
which handles appeals for all civil and criminal cases and authorises election results. Protesters expressed fears the party will use its political sway over the court to falsify elections.
“We have the right to live in a free country with a constitution,” said Monika Czerniakowska, 50. She said once a government violates the constitution, “anything can happen. Look what’s happening in Hungary. How
far can we go?” On yesterday, 63 justices were working, meaning that ten of the 27 being forced into retirement have accepted their retirement under the new law, according to the court’s press office.
PAGE 12, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Mexico’s Lopez Obrador sets $7.5 billion for youths, elderly
MEXICO CITY Associated Press PRESIDENT-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, pictured, promised
$7.5bn for youth job training and aid to the elderly yesterday, keystone programmes that could make Mexico’s business sector one of the biggest beneficiaries of his first year in office.
Lopez Obrador pledged the government would pay the salaries of apprentices employed by Mexican companies as part of a $5bn package of scholarships and job training.
Founded in 1948, St Andrew’s has a long and proud tradition of providing the highest quality education to our students. St Andrew’s is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and was the first school in The Bahamas to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Diploma (IBDP) Programmes. Our reputation for “Ethics & Excellence” is recognised nationally and internationally. Our student body of approximately 540 students represents thirty-six (36) nationalities showing our diversity of being international and proudly Bahamian. The School invites applications from qualified and experienced Bahamian candidates and Permanent Residents for the following teaching vacancies with effect from August 2018. ASSISTANT TEACHER: LEARNING SUPPORT AND SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMME JOB DESCRIPTION Providing support to instructional program with specific responsibilities for assisting with supervision and care for students with special needs, assisting in the implementation of instruction, monitoring student behavior, documenting activities and programmes supporting Individual Education Programme (IEP) goals.
STUDENT SUPPORT • To support the lead teacher in the delivery of an individualised curriculum, using teaching strategies specific to the student’s learning profiles. • Adapt classroom assignments/and or materials assigned by Lead Teacher for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing classroom objectives. • To support the lead teacher in the delivery of an individualised vocational/functional skills programme. • Implement, under direction of the Lead Teacher, continuous support in the areas of communication and positive behavioral interventions. • To provide inclusion support for students with special educational needs during assigned periods within general education classrooms. • To provide assistance with toileting and intimate care according to the School’s procedures. • Support the School’s academic and pastoral programmes and assist in the educational and social development of the students under the direction of the Lead Teacher and Administration. • Assist with the supervision of students during recess, field trips and outings. • Assist with the supervision of students during assemblies, special events or performances. • Work directly with individual or small groups of students as directed by the Lead Teacher. • Assist with students in all specialist lessons as directed by the Specialist Teacher.. CLASSROOM SUPPORT • Communicate with Lead Teacher and parents for the purpose of assisting progress toward IEP goals. • Create a variety of documents and material. • Serve as a resource to other staff members related to the Special Needs Programme for the purpose of providing support, training and information. • Organise and maintain classroom supplies. • Prepare materials and resources for learning, including photocopied materials. • Organise the physical and display space of the classroom in accordance with the Lead Teacher’s specifications. • Assist the Lead Teacher in maintaining student records, files and portfolios. STANDARDS AND OTHER EXPECTATIONS • Teachers and assistants are required to discuss matters openly and work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure that our number one concern is the child, his/her wellbeing and their educational journey. • To follow outlined procedures including progress recording procedures, communication procedures, intimate care procedures. • Attend team and staff meetings, as required. • Maintain expected standards of dress, punctuality and attendance. • Consider and act on personal and professional development goals. APPLICATION PROCESS Interested candidates should apply to the School’s Business Office by letter, email or fax as soon as possible.
All applications MUST include the following: • Letter of Application • Curriculum Vitae – to include the contact details of at least three (3) referees • A recent photo Failure to provide all this information may result in your application not being considered. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within four (4) weeks of making an application, please assume your application was unsuccessful. The closing date for applications is Friday 13th July 2018. Short listed candidates will be invited to interview at the School in Late July 2018. No applications will be considered after the closing date. St Andrew’s School Business Office P.O. Box EE 17340 Nassau, The Bahamas Email: sandrews@st-andrews.com Fax: 1 242 324 0816 For more information please see the School’s website www.standrewsbahamas.com
The once-fiery leftist met with Mexican businessmen on yesterday in a surprisingly chummy encounter where he sealed the jobtraining deal in a handshake with business chamber leader Juan Pablo Castanon. The programmes for the elderly and youths will be the cornerstones of Lopez Obrador’s first year in office, which starts when he takes office Dec 1. “We will have to come up with this funding ... even if we are left without a shirt on our backs,” Lopez Obrador vowed. The president-elect — whose victory must still be certified by electoral authorities and the courts — implied that most of his other campaign promises will be left to later years in office. Lopez Obrador was elected in a landslide Sunday. Lopez Obrador pledged $2bn to extend and increase old-age supplementary payments to the elderly so that every Mexican over 68 will receive at least the equivalent of $2.25 per day. The elderly payments initially started in Mexico City when Lopez Obrador was mayor in the early 2000s, but he has now pledged to fund them at the same level as in the capital — currently about $60 per month — nationwide. But the youth programme appeared to be a big gift to the business sector: Companies will get much of the $5bn to pay salaries to youths; the remainder will apparently go to technical colleges and universities or to scholarships. The firms will give their apprentices certificates of competence, but apparently won’t be required to hire them after their apprenticeships. The programme is aimed
at reducing the number of unemployed youths recruited by drug cartels, or as Lopez Obrador put it in a campaign slogan “students on scholarships, not cartel hitmen.” Lopez Obrador’s third day as president-elect was marked by healing wounds left with business and other groups that emerged during the bruising presidential campaign, in which some businessmen wrote letters to their employees urging them in veiled terms not to vote for Lopez Obrador. On yesterday, one of the businessmen who wrote such a letter — German Larrea of the mining and rail conglomerate Grupo Mexico — sought to make up with Lopez Obrador. Larrea signed a full-page ad in Mexican newspapers saying, “We wish you the greatest success as president.” Banco Base analysts noted yesterday that the peso hit its strongest value of the day after Lopez Obrador’s meeting with the business group. “The communication efforts of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and his team in the days since July 1 illustrate their objective of generating confidence in financial markets and the
business sector by being emphatic about the importance of maintaining an orthodox fiscal policy and functional monetary policy,” the bank said. Even former President Vicente Fox, who called Lopez Obrador “Lopito” and “crazy” during the campaign, issued a video statement yesterday saying, “All of Mexico won, by voting for a change ... congratulations, Andres.” Given the venom with which they had attacked Lopez Obrador over the years — Fox, for example, promoted a court case seeking to prevent the leftist from running in 2006 — Lopez Obrador was conciliatory, but not cutting his long-time opponents any slack. Lopez Obrador thanked Mexico’s former presidents for their congratulatory messages, but said he was still determined to eliminate the luxurious pensions that expresidents enjoy in Mexico. Union groups allied with the old ruling party, the PRI, also got into the act. The oil workers union published full-page ads yesterday saying, “Our institutional respect for the president will be, as always, limitless.”
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, July 5, 2018, PAGE 13
New Mexico tech firm crowdfunding for commerical Wi-Fi space project SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO Associated Press THE founder of a Santa Fe-based tech firm that wants to bring commercial Wi-Fi to space is offering a stake in the company. Solstar Space Co founder and CEO M Brian Barnett filed an offering statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission seeking approval to raise investment capital through the online crowdfunding platform Wefunder.com, the Santa Fe New Mexican reports. He filed the offering statement last week. Barnett said he is looking to raise $1m in equity funding through the site. The campaign is soliciting investments, not donations,
he said, adding: “There are perks.” In addition to a stake in the privately held company, a $10,000 investor qualifies for a visit to the Texas launch site where Solstar plans a second test of its equipment aboard a Blue Origin rocket. Blue Origin is the commercial spaceflight company founded by Jeff Bezos, also the founder of Amazon.com and the owner of the Washington Post. An investment of $100,000 is worth a “backstage pass” to the Solstar launch preparations, Barnett said Solstar Space is working to create reliable internet connections in space for everyone, starting in the orbital realm. The first customers for internet in space
will likely be passengers aboard commercial spacecraft flown by Blue Origin, SpaceX or Virgin Galactic. Solstar was founded in March 2017 and now has 11 full- and part-time employees. The SEC filing showed that like many startups, the company is running on a shoestring budget: It ended the year with assets of $6,917 and short-term debt of about $14,700, according to the filing. Starting in May 2016, the SEC opened the way for “regulation crowdfunding”, which basically allows individuals other than accredited investors to invest in private companies. The SEC limits the amount a company can raise this way to $1,080,000. The amount individuals may
A Financial Institute that provides financial services seeks to identify suitable candidates for the position of:
MANAGER, RISK
Key Responsibilities: • Ensuring appropriate and effective risk policies, procedures and controls are in place • Designing and improving systems and controls relating to the Enterprise Risk function; • Assists with designing and implementing Risk Management training programs • Assist in the development of and oversee processes to identify and evaluate risk and control self- assessments; • Assist in the development and implementation of risk and control testing; • Review and prepare reports on the results of risk and control testing performed • Conduct and facilitate the risk assessments process • Undertake quantitative and qualitative risk assessment including probability and impact assessments • Contribute to the operation and updating of the risk management information system • Create and maintain risk register • Undertake forecasting and analysis of emerging risks • Conduct and participate in risk review workshops, surveys and post-event investigation • Support the development and implementation of action plans for mitigation activities and potential changes to the control environment • Provide guidance and assist with conducting investigations into known or suspected fraudulent activities Position Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in a business related field • Minimum 5 years full time working experience in risk management, banking or related field; • Knowledge of the principles of risk management and the major risks impacting financial institutions; • Proven ability to analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative data; • Ability to create, implement, monitor and make recommendations for improvements to a risk culture; • Leadership and motivational abilities in a dynamic changing environment; • Self-motivated with the highest level of integrity, objectivity and confidentiality in the execution of duties; • Excellent oral, analytical, interpersonal, written communication, presentation and computer skills. Interested persons should apply no later than Friday, July 6, 2018 to: Email: employment242bahamas@gmail.com
invest is limited, too, and based on their net worth.
“We feel like Wefunder was good for us,” Barnett
said. “People like it; people understand it.”
PAGE 14, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE THE EBC CORPORATION
INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN as follows:
The public is hereby advised that I, ALADINA D. SOMMONS aka ALADINA DARNETTE OLIVER of Culbert Hill, P.O.Box EE16748 intend to change my name to ALLADINA DANETTE OLIVER. If there are any objections to this change of name by deed poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P. O. Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of the publication of this notice.
(a) THE EBC CORPORATION is in dissolution under the provisions of the International Business Companies Act 2000. (b) The dissolution of the said Company commenced on the 28th day of June, 2018 when its Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.
NOTICE
(c) The Liquidator of the said Company is Mr. Alan Coutts of The Axis Pattaya (B1110), 144/673, Moo 10, Nongprue Banglamung, Chonburi 20150, Thailand.
NOTICE is hereby given that JOHNATHAN TYRES KNOWLES of Hunters, Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 5th day of July, 2018 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
H & J CORPORATE SERVICES LTD. Registered Agent for the above-named Company
MARKET REPORT WEDNESDAY, 4 JULY 2018
t. 242.323.2330 | f. 242.323.2320 | www.bisxbahamas.com
BISX ALL SHARE INDEX: CLOSE 1,986.98 | CHG 4.71 | %CHG 0.24 | YTD -76.59 | YTD% -3.71 BISX LISTED & TRADED SECURITIES 52WK HI 4.50 19.17 7.50 4.00 1.48 0.19 4.00 9.10 6.60 5.30 11.00 2.71 1.77 8.21 6.10 11.48 7.29 13.67 12.51
52WK LOW 3.50 17.43 7.50 3.32 0.90 0.12 3.00 8.50 6.00 3.15 9.00 2.30 1.40 7.25 6.00 9.50 5.67 3.25 12.50
1050.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00
1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00
PREFERENCE SHARES
1.00 103.00 100.00 106.00 105.00 103.00 100.00 10.00 1.01
1.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.00
SECURITY AML Foods Limited APD Limited Bahamas Property Fund Bahamas Waste Bank of Bahamas Benchmark Cable Bahamas CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank Colina Holdings Commonwealth Bank Commonwealth Brewery Consolidated Water BDRs Doctor's Hospital Emera Incorporated Famguard Fidelity Bank Finco Focol J. S. Johnson Cable Bahamas Series 6 Cable Bahamas Series 8 Cable Bahamas Series 9 Cable Bahamas Series 10 Colina Holdings Class A Commonwealth Bank Class E Commonwealth Bank Class J Commonwealth Bank Class K Commonwealth Bank Class L Commonwealth Bank Class M Commonwealth Bank Class N Fidelity Bank Class A Focol Class B
CORPORATE DEBT - (percentage pricing) 52WK HI 100.00
52WK LOW 100.00
SYMBOL AML APD BPF BWL BOB BBL CAB CIB CHL CBL CBB CWCB DHS EMAB FAM FBB FIN FCL JSJ CAB6 CAB8 CAB9 CAB10 CHLA CBLE CBLJ CBLK CBLL CBLM CBLN FBBA FCLB
SECURITY Fidelity Bank Note 22 (Series B) +
SYMBOL FBB22
Bahamas Note 6.95 (2029) BGS: 2015-1-3Y BGS: 2014-12-5Y BGS: 2015-1-5Y BGS: 2014-12-7Y BGS: 2015-1-7Y BGS: 2014-12-30Y BGS: 2015-1-30Y BGS: 2015-6-3Y BGS: 2015-6-5Y BGS: 2015-6-7Y BGS: 2015-6-30Y BGS: 2015-10-3Y BGS: 2015-10-5Y BGS: 2015-10-7Y
BAH29 BG0203 BG0105 BG0205 BG0107 BG0207 BG0130 BG0230 BG0303 BG0305 BG0307 BG0330 BG0403 BG0405 BG0407
BAHAMAS GOVERNMENT STOCK - (percentage pricing) 115.92 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
104.79 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
MUTUAL FUNDS 52WK HI 2.15 4.16 2.00 179.39 157.58 1.55 1.70 1.64 1.10 6.99 8.54 6.15 10.52 11.46 10.46
52WK LOW 1.67 3.04 1.68 164.74 116.70 1.49 1.62 1.58 1.07 6.41 7.62 5.66 8.65 10.54 9.57
LAST CLOSE 4.40 17.43 9.09 4.00 1.01 0.18 3.00 9.10 6.14 4.20 10.90 2.57 1.70 7.96 6.10 11.20 6.32 3.55 12.51
CLOSE 4.45 17.43 9.09 4.00 1.01 0.18 3.00 9.10 6.14 4.20 10.90 2.57 1.70 7.96 6.10 11.20 6.32 3.65 12.51
CHANGE 0.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.00
1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 100.00 100.00 100.40 100.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.00
1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 100.00 100.00 100.40 100.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
LAST SALE 100.00
CLOSE 100.00
CHANGE 0.00
107.54 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
0.34 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
107.20 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
FUND CFAL Bond Fund CFAL Balanced Fund CFAL Money Market Fund CFAL Global Bond Fund CFAL Global Equity Fund FG Financial Preferred Income Fund FG Financial Growth Fund FG Financial Diversified Fund FG Financial Global USD Bond Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Secured Balanced Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Targeted Equity Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Prime Income Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Equities Sub Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - High Yield Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Alternative Strategies Fund
VOLUME 21,000
10,000
VOLUME
EPS$ 0.361 0.932 -0.306 0.283 -0.973 0.000 -0.996 0.638 0.573 0.171 0.627 0.102 0.231 0.000 0.545 0.679 0.610 0.277 0.631
DIV$ 0.080 1.130 0.000 0.230 0.000 0.010 0.000 0.320 0.220 0.120 0.620 0.060 0.070 0.084 0.320 0.500 0.200 0.120 0.580
P/E 12.3 18.7 N/M 14.1 N/M N/M -3.0 14.3 10.7 24.6 17.4 25.2 7.4 N/M 11.2 16.5 10.4 13.2 19.8
YIELD 1.80% 6.48% 0.00% 5.75% 0.00% 5.56% 0.00% 3.52% 3.58% 2.86% 5.69% 2.33% 4.12% 1.06% 5.25% 4.46% 3.16% 3.29% 4.64%
0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 7.00% 6.50%
INTEREST Prime + 1.75% 6.95% 4.00% 4.25% 4.25% 4.50% 4.50% 6.25% 6.25% 4.00% 4.25% 4.50% 6.25% 3.50% 3.88% 4.25%
NAV 2.15 4.12 2.00 179.39 153.02 1.55 1.69 1.64 1.09 7.15 8.14 6.41 11.26 11.68 10.24
YTD% 12 MTH% 1.55% 4.09% -0.45% 4.34% 0.84% 2.31% 0.39% 5.05% -0.25% 4.57% 1.29% 4.18% -0.61% 2.84% 1.02% 3.84% -0.87% 1.82% -1.08% 1.77% -5.96% -3.05% 1.90% 4.59% 7.24% 11.96% 2.77% 3.88% 3.94% 4.69%
MATURITY 19-Oct-2022 20-Nov-2029 30-Jul-2018 16-Dec-2019 30-Jul-2020 15-Dec-2021 30-Jul-2022 15-Dec-2044 30-Jul-2045 26-Jun-2018 26-Jun-2020 26-Jun-2022 26-Jun-2045 15-Oct-2018 15-Oct-2020 15-Oct-2022 NAV Date 31-May-2018 31-May-2018 31-May-2018 31-Mar-2018 31-Mar-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018 30-Apr-2018
MARKET TERMS BISX ALL SHARE INDEX - 19 Dec 02 = 1,000.00 52wk-Hi - Highest closing price in last 52 weeks 52wk-Low - Lowest closing price in last 52 weeks Previous Close - Previous day's weighted price for daily volume Today's Close - Current day's weighted price for daily volume Change - Change in closing price from day to day Daily Vol. - Number of total shares traded today DIV $ - Dividends per share paid in the last 12 months P/E - Closing price divided by the last 12 month earnings
YIELD - last 12 month dividends divided by closing price Bid $ - Buying price of Colina and Fidelity Ask $ - Selling price of Colina and fidelity Last Price - Last traded over-the-counter price Weekly Vol. - Trading volume of the prior week EPS $ - A company's reported earnings per share for the last 12 mths NAV - Net Asset Value N/M - Not Meaningful
WE’RE LOOKING FOR A... Live-in Handyman • Hands on, proactive private household live-in handyman. • Must have at least five years’ experience. • Will be required to perform some occasional driver duties. • Must be able to carry out simple carpentry repairs. • Will be required to undertake work both inside and outside of the property which will include pool maintenance, gardening, painting and ensuring the property is in excellent condition at all times. • Responsibility for the maintenance and security of the property during the employer’s absence. • Should possess a clean driver’s license and police record. Salary will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Interested persons should send resumes and supporting documents to: P. O. Box N-9240 Nassau, Bahamas
OR email address: mediabillings@gmail.com
ENTRIES DUE BY JULY 13TH, 2018 TO TRADE CALL: CFAL 242-502-7010 | ROYALFIDELITY 242-356-7764 | FG CAPITAL MARKETS 242-396-4000 | COLONIAL 242-502-7525 | LENO 242-396-3225
PAGE 16, Thursday, July 5, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
Doctors Hospital Gives Student Nurses Reasons to Pursue Career in The Bahamas
Recognizing the growing need for qualified nurses in the Bahamian healthcare system, Doctors Hospital recently held a meet and greet event for current student nurses.
During the event, attendees were able to learn more about the career opportunities available at Doctors Hospital as well as speak with recent nursing graduates who are currently employed at the hospital. “We are acutely aware that many countries throughout the world are facing nursing shortages,” said Paul Haven, Vice President of Human Resources. He stated, “Given the expanding opportunities for nurses to pursue careers abroad, we felt it necessary to reach out to our up and coming nurses and share with them the wonderful benefits offered at Doctors Hospital.” During her presentation, Bridgett Sherman, Assistant
Vice President of Patient Care Services discussed the many benefits of pursuing a nursing career at home rather than moving abroad. “At Doctors Hospital new nurses receive four weeks of vacation. Nurses abroad typically start with just two weeks vacation from which compassionate leave and sick
leave are deducted. Additionally, Doctors Hospital offers tuition assistance, ongoing training paid for by the hospital and automatic enrolment in the hospital’s preceptorship program. It’s difficult to find international institutions willing to offer similar benefits to new nurses.” Nursing students were also reminded of Doctors Hospital’s strong history of training and developing nursing professionals and were invited to take advantage of the opportunities to work part-time at the hospital as Patient Care Technicians while they continue their studies. This not
only provides them with extra funds but it also gives them the chance to gain valuable on-thejob work experience. The student nurses were pleased with the effort shown by Doctors Hospital. “I’m happy to see that Doctors Hospital is going all out to keep Bahamian nurses at home”, said Erica Reckley-Rolle, a third year nursing student. When speaking about the event, Reckley-Rolle noted that it allowed her to gain a better understanding of what’s offered at the hospital. “I’m impressed that Doctors Hospital is interested in helping nurses work in their area of interest and they seem to have a good and dynamic team who is committed to the goal of providing quality healthcare.” Doctors hospital is hopeful that following the meet and greet, more newly minted nurses will recognize the benefits of remaining in The Bahamas instead of moving abroad.
Renewable energy push in sunny Arizona draws political fight PHOENIX Associated Press ARIZONA’S largest utility is fiercely opposing a push to mandate increased use of renewable energy in the sun-drenched state, setting up a political fight over a measure funded by a California billionaire. Clean Energy for a Healthy Arizona aims to ask voters whether they want the state constitution to require half of Arizona’s electricity come from renewable sources like wind and solar by 2030. The group plans to file more than 225,000 signatures today to get the question on the November ballot. Billionaire philanthropist Tom Steyer is financing the initiative through his NextGen Climate Action group, which supported similar efforts in Nevada and Michigan. But only the Arizona measure spawned a political battle, with the Republican-controlled Legislature passing a rule to help insulate utilities and the parent company of the state’s largest electricity provider bankrolling opposition messaging. Steyer, known for climate advocacy as well as his push to impeach President Donald Trump, says he’s backing the proposal because of the benefits it will bring to Arizona. “It actually will lead to lower costs and save a lot of money for consumers,” Steyer said. “It leads to clean air and a lot better health outcomes for Arizonans, and it should create literally tens of thousands of jobs in the state of Arizona. So it’s hard to understand why these people are fighting it.” Supporters of the initiative say Arizona hasn’t taken advantage of its role as the sunniest state in the nation to develop more solar energy, saying it derives just six percent of its energy from solar. Arizona Public Service Co says the proposed constitutional amendment will cause customers’ utility rates to skyrocket and harm reliability. Its parent company, Pinnacle West Capital Corp, funneled $1.18m to Arizonans for affordable energy to oppose the initiative in the first three months of the year. Multiple chambers of commerce, Tucson Electric Power and Chicanos Por La Causa also oppose it. “Everyone supports renewable energy,” said Matthew Benson, spokesman for the utility-funded opposition initiative. “The question is whether we are going to have an Arizona plan that is created and implemented by Arizona leaders and officials, or
whether we’re going to have a plan crammed down our throats by a political activist from California.” Campaign finance records show Steyer’s group gave $750,000 in cash and more than $200,000 in goods and services to the renewable energy campaign. Opponents have used the #StopSteyer hashtag in the run-up to today’s deadline for petition signatures. Legislative Republicans also cast him as an “out-ofstate billionaire” when they passed a law that limits the cost of not complying with renewable energy mandates. Steyer disagrees that he’s dictating policy. The National Resources Defense Council, Mi Familia Vota, and various in-state health and climate groups have endorsed the initiative as a way to bring more renewable energy to Arizona. “When concentrated corporate interests put themselves and their bottom line ahead of the people, I don’t like that,” Steyer said. “And that’s what I suspect is happening here. And I think the people of Arizona should be asked what they think, and that’s what we’re trying to enable.” Arizona is one of three states where the billionaire’s NextGen Climate Action group pushed ballot initiatives for higher renewable energy standards. Nevada’s measure hasn’t drawn the same uproar, and the effort in Michigan ended after two utilities decided to increase investments in renewable energy. Benson says Arizona is different partly because of the numbers — the Michigan initiative had a 30 percent renewable mandate compared with 50 percent in Arizona. The Arizona Corporation Commission already requires electric utilities to generate 15 percent of their energy from renewable sources by 2025. APS also warned that the initiative’s higher renewable standard would force its nuclear power plant to close. Nuclear wouldn’t count toward the 50 percent mandate, and APS says its Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is the largest electricity producer in the US. Jeff Burke, APS director of resources planning, says customers would see six to 14 percent increases on their bills if the company is forced to ratchet up renewable use ahead of schedule. “We continue to add renewables to our system, but they have to make sense,” Burke said. “It’s not really about a target, it’s about what makes sense for our customers’ usage and what makes rates affordable and what keeps our system reliable.”