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Volume: 112 No.205
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2016
PRICE - $1 (Abaco / Grand Bahama $1.50) The Tribune
Fun ways to lose the flab Inside Weekend
Bahamas put on hurricane alert Residents urged to be prepared
By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net HURRICANE Matthew is expected to bring strong tropical storm force winds and heavy rain when it passes over the central and southeast Bahamas early next week, with residents being warned to begin hurricane preparations as soon as possible. Matthew formed into a category one storm yesterday, but is expected to strengthen. Deputy Director of the Department of Meteorology Basil Dean said that while there are varying projections on how strong Hurricane Matthew will be when it approaches The Bahamas early Tuesday morning, all models indicate that the central and southeast Bahamas will experience strong tropical storm force winds and heavy rains. He said there is the potential for Matthew to become a category two hurri-
Weekend
Fun workou ts
silver slipper revival Pages 8&9
Get fit fast
to burn fat
Fitness, page s 14&15
LIGHTBOURN DIFFERENCES WITH MINNIS ‘RESOLVED’
By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net ALTHOUGH he did not get a renomination for his seat, Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn - one of the “gang of six” - said his “differences” with Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis have been resolved, telling persons yesterday to “go elsewhere” if they did not support the party’s leadership. Mr Lightbourn reiterated his commitment to the FNM, which he said appeared to be “getting its act together”. However, he seemed to express dissatisfaction with the current process used to select candidates. SEE PAGE SIX
McCARTNEY: DNA IS CHANCE TO START OVER By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Leader Branville McCartney says his party exists as a “chance” for Bahamians to “start over”, claiming that consecutive governments have neglected and disrespected the needs and demands of voters. Taking the stage to deliver the closing address of the SEE PAGE TW0 & THREE HURRICANE Matthew as seen in this image from the GOES East satellite yesterday. cane or stronger during the Island, Acklins, Long weekend. Mr Dean is advis- Cay, Ragged Island, Exuing residents to be prepared ma will be the first group for flooding and thunder- of islands to be impacted storms. SEE PAGE 11 “Residents in Crooked
INSURANCE MANAGEMENT HURRICANE TRACKING MAP
Sunset Drive when the occupants of a Honda Accord vehicle pulled up and fired several shots at them before speeding off. One man was pronounced dead on the scene. Four more men
HOBBY HORSE WORKERS MUST WAIT ON PAY By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
ONE KILLED, FOUR INJURED IN SHOOTING ONE man was killed and four more injured in a shooting last night in Sunset Park. Police said that, shortly before 11pm, a group of men were playing dominoes outside a home on
recreation shopping theatre film Friday, septem fashion rela ber 30, 2016 tionships food
THE roughly 200 former Baha Mar employees hired by or through The Hobby Horse Company will have to wait out the ongoing payout process to learn their fate, as Claims Committee personnel deliberate over how best to handle the “precarious” group. SEE PAGE FIVE
were taken to hospital where they were being treated for their injuries received. Police have no motive for the shooting. Officers are seeking the public’s support in solving this incident.
$8M ROAD TRAFFIC SYSTEM TO BE CARNIVAL ORGANISERS SEEK TO INTRODUCED ON OCTOBER 11 CLARIFY PROFITABILITY COMMENTS By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net THE Road Traffic Department will roll out its new $8m automated system on October 11, eliminating “handwritten vehicle information discs” and stream-
BAHAMAS DEBT OVER 90% OF GDP
SEE BUSINESS
lining the licensing and registration processes, RTD Controller Ross Smith said yesterday. At a press conference at the RTD’s temporary Thomas A Robinson Stadium location, Mr Smith said the new electronic system will make it easier for persons to license their vehicles and put an end to having to register the same vehicle every year. SEE PAGE SIX
THE Bahamas National Festival Commission has clarified controversial statements from its chairman, Paul Major, who on Tuesday told reporters that Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival was never designed to be a “profit exercise,” stressing that it is focused on reducing government investment and increasing revenue. A statement released by the BNFC yesterday said the commission’s mandate “has always been to
significantly and positively impact” the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). “The nuance between profitability and GDP might sound trite, like a play on words, but the commission would like to assure the public that there is a real difference between the two objectives and it is not a matter of semantics,” the statement said. SEE PAGE SEVEN
PAGE 2, Friday, September 30, 2016
THE DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Convention held at Superclub Breezes Hotel.
JAYCE Braynen and Branville McCartney at the Democratic National Alliance convention.
THE TRIBUNE
Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff
WENDELL Williams prays over Branville McCartney, leader of the DNA and deputy leader Chris Mortimer.
REAL Bahamas Parties (RBP) pictured during their comedy skit at The Democratic National Alliance Convention.
AUDIENCE members at the Democratic National Alliance Convention at Superclub Breezes Hotel.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 3
BRANVILLE MCCARTNEY, leader of the Democratic National Alliance, during his arrival into their convention.
Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff
McCartney: DNA is chance to start over from page one opening night of the party’s inaugural convention, Mr McCartney told the crowd of supporters in attendance at the Super Club Breezes resort, that the Bahamian electorate now finds itself in a “particularly unique situation,” declaring that the DNA offers “the opportunity of a lifetime.” “Act now,” urged the former Bamboo Town MP. Mr McCartney insisted that the DNA has not abandoned its mission to offer true representation to the people of this country. He proclaimed since its inception, the DNA has grown by “leaps and bounds” and now stands ready to reduce the challenges that face the country. “That’s 260 weeks, 1825 days and 43,800 hours to be exact. During that time The Bahamas watched as the idea that everyone knew to be our only hope unfolded, grew and developed and changed the political landscape of our country forever.”
DNA candidate Prodesta Moore speaking at the party’s convention. “When critics counted us out, we worked harder, and we have continued to work to keep the government’s feet to the fire and to hold them accountable to their many election promises, even in the face of criticism.” He continued: “This, I firmly believe, is an indicator of the kind of governance you can expect from the DNA. Governance that is in touch with the needs of its people and a government that listens to the voice of the people and representation that is not only transparent but also reflects the
will of the electorate.” Recalling high-points of his brief political career, Mr McCartney said he entered frontline politics because he wanted to make a real difference in the lives of Bahamians. He said as the junior minister of immigration in the last Free National Movement Cabinet, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work, bringing passion, energy and determination to the post. Mr McCartney said he had to learn very quickly that he could make no difference without a team of
WANTED MAN IS ARRESTED A SUSPECT wanted by police in connection with the attempted murder of a police sergeant had been arrested. Tahnarze Ferguson, also known as “Dirty” or “Nas”, was wanted in connection with an incident at Odle Corner on Monday, September 5. Police said that officers from the firearms and investigations unit went to an area off Farrington Road, at about 6pm last night, where they arrested the wanted
TAHNZARZE FERGUSON
suspect and took him into custody. In a separate incident, police in Long Island took four New Providence men into custody following the seizure of two illegal firearms - one an AK-47 assault rifle. Officers found the weapons when executing a search warrant on a South Long Island home. The second gun was a 9mm handgun, and a total of more than $190,000 in cash was also discovered.
18 CUBAN MIGRANTS DETAINED EIGHTEEN Cuban migrants were apprehended in the southern Bahamas by a Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) patrol craft in the Cay Sal Bank area southeast of Key West, Florida, on Wednesday morning. While on routine patrol, HMBS LL Smith, under the command of Acting
Lieutenant Commander Stephen Rolle, conducted a search of Anguilla Cay at 9am. Results of the search found the Cuban nationals - 16 males, 2 females - on the southern tip of the Cay. They were then taken aboard the RBDF craft. The Cuban nationals will be handed over to De-
partment of Immigration authorities for further processing. This makes a total of 28 Cuban migrants apprehended by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force within a week. Last Friday, 10 Cuban migrants were also picked up in a sloop off Anguilla Cay.
GRAND CAY RESIDENTS RESCUED TWO Grand Cay residents are thankful to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force after the overdue boat they were on was found safe at sea in the northern Bahamas on Wednesday morning. RBDF marines stationed at the Northern Command in Freeport received a call around 10pm Tuesday that a 17-ft white Boston Whaler boat had left Grand Cay en route to Grand Bahama. When the vessel had not arrived at its destination, authorities were immediately alerted. Petty Officer Glen Colebrook, coxswain of the Patrol craft P-128, started the search for the missing vessel early Wednesday morning and located it about 16
miles north east of Lucayan Water Way with the two occupants. The craft had apparently experienced engine problems, and had decided to anchor in shallow waters until help arrived. The man and woman on board were in good health
and were taken safely to shore.
people who supported his vision for a better Bahamas. “There is something about being in a position of leadership which makes you very aware of how limited you are as an individual,” he said. Mr McCartney added: “I understand now, as I did then, that it takes the inclusion and participation of others – their ideas, their support, and yes - even their criticisms – that allows for real and substantive impact to be made in any arena, be it the family, in business, or in politics; and while I may have been chosen to lead this organization, I am but a cog in the wheel that moves the party forward.” “The DNA has, and will always be bigger than any one man. Whatever successes the DNA has achieved, has been the direct result
of the time and effort put in by our executive team, our candidates, DNA members, and our supporters and for that I say ‘thank you’.” Moreover, the DNA leader said the 2012 election campaign taught him many tough and valuable lessons. Mr McCartney state that he personally had to learned that they must be brave, compassionate, patient and dedicated. “I had to be willing to work and work hard. To constantly advocate for the rights of Bahamians, to be the kind of leader that Bahamians can be proud of. I am reminded of those lessons tonight and I will continue to learn from the electorate and adapt to the needs of our ever changing country.” To that end, Mr McCartney said he has gathered a team of candidates and of-
ficers capable of moving the Bahamas into 21st century nationhood. “Through the Democratic National Alliance we have a collective opportunity to stop the clock and hit the reset button on our country’s governance, but we must act now. If you have ever felt powerless this is your moment to reclaim your authority. To demand once and for all that your voice as a voter is not only heard, but respected.” Day one of the party’s two-day convention featured addresses by several candidates and party officers. In addition to Mr McCartney, all of the party’s leadership team was successfully returned to office without challenge. The party is expected to continue its candidates rollout over the next month.
PAGE 4, Friday, September 30, 2016
THE TRIBUNE
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As elections near, a warning over spending wars AS ELECTIONS near, there are certain things we know to expect in The Bahamas. There will be rallies and speeches and most of those rallies will have more promises and fast food than real meat on the issues. Party generals will hobnob. Party foot soldiers will work the streets. Every candidate of every part, no matter how many splinter groups there are, will have the same goal in mind - to win votes by persuading every potential, prospective voter that they will be better off if they elect them. We would not try to suggest changing the frenzied rites of election. Every candidate has the right - and many have the ability - to make their case and win votes. But only one party has the ability to persuade by pocketbook. We are not talking about the $50 or $100 bills tucked into rolled up t-shirts, but by spending wildly, recklessly, sparing no expense to buy the loyalty of a nation while leaving the people or the next government drowning in debt. That one party is the governing party. The temptation to spend will be great. If a recent survey was accurate, and we have no reason to suspect it was not, this will be a very tight and hard-fought election. That means the sitting government, which holds the chequebook and the connection to external sources for funds, may very well be tempted to do as they say spend like drunken sailors. We watched it happen in Australia three years ago and the ruling party retained the government despite Opposition MP Tony Abbott warning them constantly to stop spending like drunken sailors. Abbott repeated it so frequently during the run-up to the election that the Australian Navy demanded that he stop insulting their sailors. But the expression is valid and even these many thousands of miles away, the message bears repeating. This is not to say that the government should lock its chequebook away. There are ongoing expenses that cannot be avoided. There are needs that any government faced with the possibility of not being returned to office will want to ensure are met as part of its legacy. Financial responsibility at this juncture is paramount and no sitting government should relinquish that responsibility, whether in spending or in recklessly giving in to untenable and threatening union demands that could further taint an already fragile business environment, especially as it impacts the willingness of local businesspersons to remain vested in
the system. That is not to say that unions should be ignored or that illegal practices should be overlooked, but a government must be careful in taking sides when the law is obeyed simply to gain votes among workers. In the same way, it must demonstrate fiscal responsibility. What is in the national interest that will have long-lasting results. What is the national wish list that can spawn a legacy? The first is freedom from fear of crime. The magic about that is it can be a moneymaker instead of a money drain. Planting cameras in critical areas, e-mailing tickets for infractions, collecting fines within 72 hours or fines increase, letting the public know you are serious about the small stuff will send a message right to the big guns. One step out of line and there’s a fine waiting. One sight of a gang meeting and everyone is scattered, carefully and with police body cameras. Pass two important pieces of legislation: one creating an independent Attorney General, the other a strong Freedom of Information Act. In the judiciacy, slash the backlog of outstanding court cases using negotiation for misdemeanours and arbitration for civil matters. Police should not have to go to court over every minor matter, wasting their time and the courts. Eliminate many misdemeanours that only leave some young person with a record. In education, require parental involvement in every child’s education. Plant vegetable gardens and fruit trees in every public school and park to reduce the 98 per cent dependency on imports and build a sense of community at the same time. Leave the country a better place, too, by buying back beaches, especially in New Providence and on Paradise Island. The people need a place to play, to think, to just be. Incentivise green energy and renewables. Incentivise collections - past due or early payment of property tax. Decentralise. Nassau must be the first real city operated like a city. Parting with a little bit of authority is a lot wiser than parting with office. By looking for new and creative ways to run for office, you will find innovative ways to run a government. The people may just buy what you are selling instead of purchasing - strong legislation, crackdown on crime, building a city, leading parent-involved schools, tightening the belt except in land acquisition for Bahamians for generations to come. This is not the time to spend foolishly but to think and plan wisely.
Was $10m a total waste? EDITOR, The Tribune. CARNIVAL FESTIVAL 2016... was it a total waste of $10m? Are the decision-makers delusional as to the merits of the event? We all recognise if there was Junkanoo 365 days in a year some of the devout aficionados would be out there every evening at every parade junkanoo is a natural expression but should such large sums of Treasury scarce money be thrown into the event, one event $10m, when clearly the majority attending are residents and very clearly the event is a designer political event? When reports use percentages rather than numbers this worries me - I ask why are they using percentages? In the report, a 65 per cent increase in visitors to Grand Bahama has to be explained what percentage were Nassau-residents participating in the parade vis-
iting Freeport - people visiting to watch the parade? Was there a natural increase owing to the fact that a hotel property was closed the previous year and now open? 65 per cent is a very large increase... Mr Chairman you need to explain. Let’s not be totally stupid if you spend $10m you expect a related impact on the GDP and the take home of the participants and the costume producers. Visitors coming for the Festival or participating off Cruise Ships in the harbour - more detail Mr Chairman - you see eyes and news video don’t lie there were infrequent non-black faces on Arawak Cay, sir. For the Chairman to say on the News that the hotels were filled to capacity I regret he has to prove that - at the time of the event, the hosting resort - Atlantis was offering 50 per cent off room costs + $250.00 support to ones airfare and $250.00 spending coupon
for within the resort! The only thing left was to give the room FREE! The current political directorate will continue to financially support this event for their own political reasonings, but from a business point of view carnival Festival should be cut immediately. Mr Chair - confirm to us that Carnival Festival is a Festival designed primarily for Bahamians - for the deliberate fudging of unemployment statistics for the period running up to the event as it has a small, very small component to attract visitors? Are we not simply spinning our own dollars in a circle and not earning a dime of foreign currency? Don’t get me wrong, the expression - the costumes are incredible but they don’t put bread on the table. W SMITH Nassau, September 27, 2016.
Everybody thinks they can be AG EDITOR, The Tribune. WHILE the whole island seems to be in an uproar over the decision of Attorney General Allyson Maynard Gibson to issue a nolle prosequi in the case being brought against two Sandals Royal Bahamian executives by the BHMAWU, I will attempt to take what seems to be the road less taken and actually try to look at the matter objectively. There is no doubt that emotions are running high, tempers are flaring and egos have been bruised, but what we should all remember is that the Attorney General is well within her rights to act independently and make decisions which, in her professional capacity, and with years of expertise and knowledge, she believes are in the best interest of the island’s legal system. That the nolle took effect on the same day the workers at Sandals were terminated is what seems to have fuelled a lot of speculation and unfounded accusations against the Attorney General. I will venture to say this is nothing but a mere coincidence because I refuse to believe that the Attorney General would make
Long distance calls EDITOR, The Tribune Re: BTC to open all-Creole store, September 21 Very hospitable. And we may soon need an all-Mandarin store as well. KEN W KNOWLES M.D. Nassau, September 26, 2016
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net such a bold and blatant move knowing that almost every single Bahamian is keenly watching how these proceedings have been unfolding. Could it be that she just does not care about her office and maintaining its credibility? Could it be that she is blatantly abandoning her job to further the interests of Sandals? I highly doubt it. What I would like to know – and really I want someone to tell me – is the Attorney General mandated to share information regarding cases being brought before the court and decisions taken thereof? The case that has been dismissed was not between Sandals and the government or any government official but was rather between the company and the BHMAWU, two non-governmental organisations. Perhaps it was in her understanding of the many conflicts and potential conflicts of interest surrounding this matter that the Attorney General acted independently and made her decision, without consulting and informing anyone aside from the Magistrate. Maybe, just maybe, her decision to not inform anyone was made to protect the integrity of the court system. In any case, the Attorney General has made it clear that her decision to issue a nolle prosequi in this particular case between Sandals and the BHMAWU, where the latter have accused two Sandals executives of breaching the Industrial Relations Act and failing to negotiate an industrial agreement, was made with the knowledge that there were two other related mat-
ters before the court. One such matter involves Sandals challenging the validity of the very existence of the union and the other is the union’s unfair dismissal action against Sandals. As has been echoed by the Attorney General’s office and Sandals’ lawyer, litigants cannot initiate a matter in a lower court while the same or a similar matter is presently before a higher court, in this case, the Supreme Court. So, is it that we are all now trained attorneys in a position to challenge this explanation? Are we really going to allow unions to bully us into thinking what they want us to think? It is interesting that sources have turned the tables on the unions, accusing them of bringing this case against Sandals to force them to meet at the bargaining table. As has been echoed in a recent Tribune article, if this is indeed true, it would represent a disturbing attempt to misuse the courts and justice system and again, provides even more explanation for why the Attorney General would act in the manner she did. At the end of the day, the Attorney General is qualified to do her job and has been entrusted with the task of overseeing our legal system. We are all free to have an opinion on her decision but we should refrain from making inflammatory accusations. We should also remember, while we mouth off and sound off, that there is a reason why we do not hold the office of Attorney General and Allyson Maynard Gibson does. JEFF CARMICHEAL Nassau, September 29, 2016.
THE TRIBUNE
Bahamasair director Henry Woods dies PRIME Minister Perry Christie mourned the death of Bahamasair Managing Director Henry Woods, who died in a South Florida hospital yesterday. “It is with a profound sense of personal loss that I mark the passing of one of my dearest friends, Henry ‘Trottie’ Woods, the managing director of our nation’s national flag carrier, Bahamasair,” Mr Christie said in a statement. He added that he was at Mr Woods’ bedside at the University of Miami Hospital when he died. Also there were Mr Woods’ wife, Gayle, his daughter, Phylicia, other family members and friends, including “perhaps his closest friend” Depu-
ty Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, and Minister of Labour and National Insurance Shane Gibson, Mr Christie said. “Mr Woods was a towering figure in Bahamian aviation for decades,” the prime minister added. “He was a superb professional who led by example, putting in exceptionally long hours and demonstrating an unswerving commitment to productivity and efficiency. “Imbued with a deep understanding of Bahamasair’s mission and a determination to master its many challenges, he was, in every sense of the term, the heart and soul of the flag carrier. His interest in the welfare of its workers at all eche-
lons of the organisation, his sense of duty to the travelling public, and his absolute insistence on adherence to the most rigorous safety standards were just some of the many things that distinguished Mr Woods’ stellar stewardship of Bahamasair all through the years. “In addition to all that, Mr. Woods was a loyal and faithful friend of many years. I will miss him enormously.” Mr Christie added that the nation “mourns the loss of one of its finest citizens and dedicated nation builders.” According to a statement released by Bahamasair, Mr Woods died at 12.07pm Thursday.
His career with the airline spanned 40 years, the statement said. “Through his many efforts Bahamasair has seen massive improvements in so many areas of performance,” the airline said. “We ask that the nation continue to cover his family in prayer during this very difficult time.” Yesterday, Bishop Walter Hanchell of Great Commission Ministries, also expressed condolences to Mr Woods’ family. “Henry Woods was a great nation builder and a man with impeccable character,” Bishop Hanchell said. “His passing is a tremendous loss to the nation.”
Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 5
HENRY WOODS, of Bahamasair.
COLOMBIAN PAIR ACCUSED OF COCAINE SMUGGLING PLOT ARE DENIED BAIL By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net
TWO Colombian men were denied bail and remanded to prison yesterday after they were arraigned for their alleged involvement in a $600,000 cocaine smuggling plot. Leonardo Velez-Escorcia, 33, and Miguel PinedaGonzalez, 30, stood before Magistrate Constance Delancy facing a count each of conspiracy to possess dangerous drugs with intent to supply and conspiracy to import dangerous drugs.
It is alleged that the crimes were committed between September 17 and 25. On September 25, Bahamian and US law enforcement officials, inclusive of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Defence Force, Bahamas Customs Department, and US counterparts, acted on information and conducted a search of the vessel anchored off Pinder’s Point. According to initial police reports, during a search a large quantity of suspected cocaine worth $625,000 was found on board. Two men were taken into cus-
tody. Both men pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their lawyer, Carlson Shurland, told the magistrate that the charges against his clients warranted bail, given that they were not on the restricted list in the 2011 Amended Bail Act. “They’re Colombians no?” the magistrate asked. Mr Shurland said they were, but noted that their nationality should not restrict them from being considered for bail. Magistrate Delancy said she had to consider whether
they would return for trial, as that was one of many considerations under the Bail Act. Mr Shurland, however, said their presumption of innocence trumps any other factors for consideration. “The evidence, as I understand it, is weak,” the lawyer added. Magistrate Delancy said that was not an issue for her court to determine. “There’s no evidence that they will abscond or interfere with witnesses,” Mr Shurland stressed. He added that his clients were prepared to accept
cash bail if necessary. Police prosecutor Supt Ercell Dorsett, when asked to respond, said the only objection he could register is that “they may not return for trial.” “If they are granted bail, however, I’d recommend cash bail in a substantial amount with at least $100,000 each if the court sees fit,” the police prosecutor added. “I’ve considered your arguments as well as guidelines set out in the Bail Act. One of those guidelines is the seriousness of the offence, which may be an
HOBBY HORSE WORKERS MUST WAIT ON BAHA MAR PAYOUTS from page one
Moving to clarify recent press reports in which he claimed he was “not familiar” with the third-party entity, Claims Committee Chairman James Smith said his committee has devoted a considerable amount of time and effort working toward a conclusion on how to handle this set of employees. On Wednesday, Mr Smith told Tribune Business that no one was going to be turned away from the process. However, repositioning that claim, Mr Smith on Thursday said his committee would have to resolve all outstanding matters with the primary 2,000 former employees directly employed with the resort, prior to any discussion with the smaller group. Mr Smith said while the specifics of the organisation and its connection to the stalled resort still had not been “completely hashedout,” his mandate is to handle the employees listed on his committee’s payout registry, and once that process concludes, committee officials would shift focus to the estimated 200 former employees on an “individual basis”. “We have communicated with several persons in that precarious grouping,” stated Mr Smith. “We are work-
CLAIMS Committee chairman James Smith. ing diligently to completely hash out the Hobby Horse connection, we aren’t there yet; we are close.” Mr Smith said the company operated as a hiring and training agency for the $3.5bn property, where potential employees would enlist to improve their skills and once completed, became eligible for a post at the resort. “These are the persons who are still kind of wanting to get something out of this situation. They are holding firm to the claim that they were employees, but there isn’t any data that supports that. But we want to help them where we can. “Whatever we are capable of doing within our mandate, we will bend over backwards to help them,” Mr Smith said. The Claims Committee has projected that 1,250 former employees have gone
through the process and have received payouts. The committee is aiming to service roughly 90 to 95 per cent of the resort’s former employees. On Tuesday, a number of former employees suggested to reporters that they were satisfied with the amounts they had received during the first day of the Claims Committee’s payout exercise at the Crystal Palace Hotel Casino. However, there were some former workers who expressed issues with the process, with one, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleging that it wasn’t clear what the payout represented, and that nothing was mentioned about pension payments. On Sunday, Mr Smith advised employees not to worry if payments did not match the amount listed on their redundancy letters. He urged workers with discrepancies to bring in the letter they received from the resort’s human resources department upon their termination as the committee was prepared to deal with any dispute. Mr Smith leads a fiveperson committee appointed by the government. Financing for the payouts is coming from the China Export-Import Bank - the resort’s main financier. There is no clarity over how much the bank put into the payout scheme.
DEFENCE FORCE OFFICER FACES FIREARMS CHARGES
By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net
A ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force officer must apply for bail to the Supreme Court having been denied a bond when he was arraigned on two firearm related offences in Magistrate’s Court. Anthony Jennings, 22, was taken to the Nassau and South Streets court complex around 4.45pm Wednesday to stand be-
fore Magistrate Constance Delancy on a charge each of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition. The allegations stemmed from an alleged argument that occurred on Sunday, September 25, and could see him facing a fine and/or up to seven years in prison if convicted. Jennings is alleged to have been found with a black and silver .40 pistol and two live .40 bullets for
the weapon. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. Jennings was informed that he would stand trial on December 6. As the lower court no longer has the discretion to consider bail on the offences, Jennings was remanded to the Department of Correctional Services to await trial. However, he does have the right to apply for a bond to the Supreme Court.
incentive for absconding. Bail is denied and the defendants are hereby advised of their right to appeal my decision to the Supreme Court,” Magistrate Delancy ruled. Velez-Escorcia and Pineda-Gonzalez will stand trial on December 9 before Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes. They were remanded to the Department of Correctional Services.
PAGE 6, Friday, September 30, 2016
THE TRIBUNE
ROAD Traffic Controller Ross Smith and Minister of Transport and Aviation Glenys Hanna Martin speaking yesterday.
Photo: Tim Clarke/Tribune Staff
$8m road traffic system to be introduced on October 11 from page one
He said while there will be no increase in licensing fees, there will be a onetime $30 payment for a new license plate and initial registration. Mr Ross stressed that there is no need for persons to rush to get their vehicles licensed, as the process of licensing your vehicle during your birth month will remain the same. “The registration of cli-
ents and the processing of payments will change. The vehicle inspection steps will remain manual and will continue to be executed at the three RTD locations the parking lot of the Eastern Grandstand, Carmichael Road and West Bay Street,” Mr Smith said. “In addition we will have two offices open in the first instance, here at the stadium and the other at Carmichael. Driver’s license services will continue at the Clarence A Bain Build-
ing for the moment. We are working to relocate those services to a new temporary location at the stadium by December. The licensing process by birth month will continue. There will be no need for any mad rush to our offices. “There is no need for persons who have already had their licenses done to come to this location. We are confident that with the technical and operational support, we will be ready to provide a greater level of service when we
officially introduce this system in October. So everything will be manual and once you are registered, you will never have to register again. When you come back the second time, that process will be cut out and you will only have to go to the inspection and then to the cashier and pay. We are also now accepting debit and credit cards.” Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna Martin said the new system is long overdue and will
eliminate “risks” and longstanding issues. “With a wholly manual system, we had lots of risks and in a developing country such as ours, with one of your primary (revenue) generators to be working on a manual system, it does not reflect well on the progress or the health of a nation in terms of doing business and so there was every single reason for this to take place,” Mrs Hanna Martin said. “For the first couple of
months you will have a dual system of plates with the old plates and the new plates. We are not requiring persons who have already registered to come back and pay more money and do it again. When you come back again you will flow into the new system. The disc on the windshield will no longer carry the owner’s name, so you will now have confidentiality, for the first time.” The new automated system also will be offered in the Family Islands.
LIGHTBOURN DIFFERENCES WITH MINNIS ‘RESOLVED’ from page one
He lamented that the decision is often political and does not take into account whether the prospective candidate is well known in the area or has a “real connection”. Speaking on the state of the FNM, and his own political future, Mr Lightbourn said that the party needed to focus on rolling out candidates and policy positions now that the dust had settled on its explosive convention. His comments as a guest on Kiss FM radio talk show “Ed Fields Live” with host Ed Fields and co-host Rogan Smith. “I don’t have a great deal of contact with the leader (Dr Minnis), but my exchanges with him are always very pleasant, very respectful,” he said. “I think we’ve got to the point where he accepts we’ve had our differences and now that the convention was held, it’s been resolved. So if he had any
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RICHARD Lightbourn during his live interview on the Ed Fields show yesterday. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff issue with me I think it regroup. now, and after the conven“The party does seem to tion, while it wasn’t the was simply because I supported someone else. But be getting its act together huge success that we would every political party has and that’s important to have hoped nevertheless it to be big enough to accept get out our candidates and has settled the dust. create a policy position of that. “The leader has been “As you can see I’m still the party on a lot of differ- confirmed and so if you’re here, I’m still FNM and ent issues, which has not going to move forward with I’m going to do everything been done to this point,” the party, if you don’t acpossible that I can to as- he said. cept the leader then you “The recent addition of need to go elsewhere. But I sist in making sure there is a change in government in the prospective candidates think on the whole people was a plus for the party, it have accepted the decision this country.” He suggested that the suggests that we are now that has been taken,” he many challenges facing the getting it together. I think added. government has delayed that it’s now moving forThe Montagu MP was the announcement of the ward. To some degree, among the six FNM memnext general election, and we’ve resolved the internal bers of Parliament that that it has given the FNM issues that have been plagu- campaigned strongly for a “little breathing space” to ing the party for some years the removal of Dr Min-
nis as leader, at one point threatening to oust him as Official Opposition leader in the House of Assembly if an early convention was not called. In addition to Mr Lightbourn, the group included St Anne’s MP Hubert Chipman, North Eleuthera MP Theo Neilly, Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner, Central Grand Bahama MP Neko Grant and Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins. Yesterday, Mr Lightbourn said the dissent was a “necessary exercise”. “I think that that was a necessary exercise,” he said. “I agree that it maybe didn’t look too pretty to some people from the outside, but nevertheless it’s been resolved and people have to accept that you do have differences within any political organisation, perhaps the government is better at keeping secrets to itself, but people know, it’s a small town you know what’s happening.” It has been suggested that Mr Lightbourn’s blunder during his speech at the FNM’s national’s convention in late July cost him a nomination. Mr Lightbourn, on the second night of the convention while attempting to offer a solution for the country’s rising crime trends,
proposed state-sponsored sterilisation of unwed women with more than two children. Mr Lightbourn prefaced the controversial suggestion with a generalisation that children born in unstable family situations often grow to participate in criminal activities. Mr Lightbourn immediately apologised for his statement and the FNM distanced the party from the Montagu MP’s proposal, stating that the party did not believe in restricting the reproductive rights of anyone. When asked whether he felt those comments affected his failed renomination bid, Mr Lightbourn yesterday said: “If it is, I don’t think it should be. I think it did send off a few surprises at the convention, it was certainly the wrong place to make such a statement and the wrong place to consider the issue that I was really seeking to address.” Earlier this month, Mr Lightbourn told The Nassau Guardian that he was not going to be a candidate for the FNM in the next election, although days earlier he had said he wanted to be ratified. Prominent businessman Dionisio D’Aguilar is rumoured to be the party’s choice for the constituency instead.
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Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 7
BACKLOGS IN HAITIAN PASSPORT APPLICATIONS CLEARED AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
BACKLOGS to obtain a Haitian passport have been cleared, according to Haitian Ambassador Jean Victor Geneus, who yesterday insisted that lengthy waiting times for persons applying in the Bahamas had been reduced to four weeks. Acknowledging that a stalled process may have discouraged persons from obtaining the document, Mr Geneus also urged Haitian parents to seek help
from the embassy if they experience any difficulty accessing public services specifically education and health care - due to insufficient documentation. He was responding to the accounts published in The Nassau Guardian from two parents, who claimed that they were unable to register their children in public school due to the new immigration policy that mandates all foreign students provide documentation in the form of a student permit or residency stamp. Mr Geneus said his staff
immediately searched its database to determine whether the persons included in the article had applied for a passport, or whether the embassy had received such a complaint - it had not. “Immediately I asked a functionary of the embassy to run a search in our database,” he said. “We did not find the name of such persons in our database. Second, it does not take six months to get a passport, I wonder if the parents were using a false name but we don’t have this person in our database.
“Before I came there was a problem, but since October of last year you can get your passport in three weeks or four weeks maximum. “We don’t have a passport problem,” he added. “There is no backlog. The problem was at the embassy of Haiti in Washington where all the passports are processed. Sometimes the equipment breaks down and they have to bring in an engineer to make the necessary reparations, that’s all. Here at the embassy we don’t make passports we
just transmit the information.” Mr Geneus urged persons that have been denied services as a result of the new policy, to bring any supporting evidence that they can. He lamented that anecdotal reports were not enough to engender a response or action from the government. “I always tell them that we need evidence,” he said. “As far as I know nobody came to the embassy to complain about this. The last time I spoke to someone from Freeport, I asked
the person to bring the evidence because if the (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) persist and say that where is the evidence, I cannot tell them someone told me a kid was refused admission. “Where is the evidence, that is what I need,” he said. “If they don’t come forward there is nothing we can do.” Mr Geneus added that he has received confirmation from both Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald, and Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson, that no child can be refused admission to school.
CARNIVAL ORGANISERS SEEK TO CLARIFY PROFITABILITY COMMENTS from page one
“Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival is absolutely an economic stimulus exercise, and it must have a positive economic impact for it to be justified. This is why the commission’s mandate from the government has always been to stimulate small and medium enterprises; to create year round employment in the cultural sector; and to positively impact GDP. “The economic plan that was approved by the government in 2015 first introduced this mandate and it has never changed. In each post-event report that was presented to the government and to the media, the commission accounted for its performance on the basis
BNFC chairman Paul Major. of the mandate.” The commission said it is steadily moving to achieving these goal posts, noting that the GDP impact of the festival for 2016 was $70m by its estimates. The BNFC added that the festival engaged 278 small and medium businesses while “dozens” of new ones were created. “Further, the data clearly
supports the fact that there was a material increase in the number of tourists at the events this year compared to last year,” the BNFC said. “Despite how alarming it sounds, the commission’s position that Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival “is not a profit exercise” was never intended to suggest that it is not an economic exercise. The commission remains committed to reducing the government’s subsidy year over year, by improving efficiencies, privatising elements of the festival and increasing revenue. “The commission generated $1.2m in direct revenue from ticket sales and sponsorship this year to offset the government’s investment. And it reduced the
government’s contribution by $4.99m (38 per cent). Its larger economic goal, however, is to help privately owned small and medium sized businesses to become profitable.” The BNFC added that the government’s direct return on its investment comes in the form of taxes, increased GDP and ultimate economic growth. “The 2016 event generated $6.3m in estimated tax revenue,” the BNFC said. “The indirect return on investment, which is the more significant and important measurement of success, accrues to the thousands of employees and Bahamian business owners connected to Junkanoo Carnival.” The BNFC has come under fire after finally reveal-
ing the figures associated with the second instalment of carnival, with some critics calling for planning for the next event to be suspended until a better financial plan could be implemented. On Monday, officials revealed the total cost for this year’s carnival event was $9.8m with a government subsidy of $8.1m. A day later, when pressed by reporters over the financial implications of the annual event, Mr Major condemned opponents of the festival who continue to look at the country’s annual investment, instead of the carnival’s “economic impact”. He said the festival was never and will never be about turning a profit on investment, explaining that
no variation of carnival hosted around the world has generated a profit for its host nation. “Nowhere in the world is a carnival a profit venture. In Trinidad they spend, I think we estimated somewhere around, based on the conversion, $40m a year,” Mr Major said on Tuesday. He claimed the success of such a festival must be measured by the thousands of persons that benefit from it indirectly and the economic benefits stimulated by it. Yesterday, the BNFC said it is committed to full transparency, adding that its 2015 independent audit will be completed next month while it has already commissioned an audit for the 2016 carnival.
does Bahamas have? Sandals has nothing to lose here, the workers on the other hand have everything to lose. The unions are not God, and it’s about time someone takes them on!” Gotoutintime said: “If the unions keep jerking Sandals around I would love to see Sandals just say ‘to hell with this place’ and pick up and leave. Believe me there are many other places in the world with ‘Sun, Sea, and Sand’ and if we, the people, in the Bahamas don’t realise this and change their ways the Bahamas is doomed!!” Sheeprunner12 had this to say: “John Pinder and Obie Ferguson both make six-figure salaries from their unions/careers . . . what can they say to convince poor struggling workers to risk a pay cut for by protesting??????? It is like the politicians telling us that ‘better days are coming’ when people do not have jobs and cannot pay their bills (but the politicians are sitting pretty and smiling) The citizens/workers are disillusioned with both politicians and union leaders.” Alfalfa didn’t think union members would get much support from the Bahamian people: “The only way for them to get ready to battle is to prepare to strike. The unions have already threatened to “shut the country down” over what is a nor-
mal business decision by an international hotel chain. Shut it down you idiots, and see how much support you get from the Bahamian people. Your leaders are fat cats and only look out for their pockets. These threats and innuendos are counter productive to developing investor confidence in the Bahamas, whether international or local.” And John said: “Things are tough and jobs are few and far between. The ho-
tel/tourism industry is in a slump and persons who have ‘a li’l piece a job’ would be foolish to sacrifice that, especially when they don’t know exactly what the dispute is about. The union leaders should sit down some more with the employers/hotel bosses and map the way forward. Reckless actions and even well planned strikes at this point will hurt the employed worker the most.”
In The Tribune’s latest online poll, we asked readers if they thought Carnival was a useful investment for the nation - even if it doesn’t turn a profit. At the time of going to press just six per cent of those voting believed the event was a worthwhile investment.
READERS RESPOND TO UNION THREAT OF ACTION OVER SANDALS JOBS THE news that union members had been warned to “get ready for battle” over the Attorney General’s decision to stop criminal proceedings against Sandals Royal Bahamian and two of its senior executives prompted a lively reaction on tribune242.com. Theobserver1 was against union action: “What madness is this? We are going to disrupt this beautiful country because you fail to prosecute two company officials for a reason that is not even clear? I still do not know what the issue was at Sandals other than the union upset they could not get their tendrils into another fruit to suck dry! Was this about pay? Not if you judge by some of the redundancy packages, people were clearly being paid well. Was this about working conditions? Come on, this is a six-star hotel, the conditions will be above excellent. This is about ego, it’s about self-aggrandizement, and it is about the perpetuation of archaic power posited in the bosoms of a few dinosaurs! “What message do you think you send to foreign investors by criminally
prosecuting their senior employees? But clearly the Bahamas doesn’t need investors, we will just rely on our manufacturing sector and oil sector when things get tough right? Come on Bahamians, recognize this madness for what it is: it’s about whether you will have jobs in the first place. These men cannot represent you if there is nothing or no place to represent you at. Think!” But Licks2 backed the union move: “This is about the rule of law . . . something Sandals cannot do in no other nation . . . ignore a ruling by their highest court . . . I told from the beginning that the high-handed move made by that hotel would go a long way to make them rue the day they decided to ignore the ruling of the high court of the Bahamas!” Only for Theobserver1 to reply with: “Rue what day? Sandals has 24 other properties including in Exuma Island. How many Sandals
• The poll is still open, so don’t miss your chance to vote and join the debate on tribune242.com.
PAGE 8 Friday, September 30, 2016
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$23m for a bucket of glitter and a couple of feathers adds up to dumb
O
VER the years, I’ve seen some dumb ideas and I’ve seen some
‘PLP’ ideas. Now that Bahamas National Festival Commission (BNFC) chairman Paul Major has finally ‘manned up’ and admitted we lost our rear ends on this year’s event, I think we can all agree that Junkanoo Carnival has to be one of the dumbest PLP ideas of all time. Now before my inbox is flooded with incoherent email from bleeding heart ‘Progressives’ complaining about my use of the word ‘dumb’, please know that I don’t use it lightly. In fact, it took me a good three minutes of deliberation between idiotic and dumb before dumb won out by the sheer force of its simplicity. Because if you’re counting (and I am), the math on Carnival is not complicated at all: Give Paul Major $13m, lose $13m. Give him $10m, lose $10m. See? Simple. Not that I’m placing all the blame on Mr Major. After all, this disastrous venture was dreamed up and green-lighted by the OBIE Wilchcombe at the Grand Bahama launch of the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival. current Progressive Liberal struggling and (literally) Party administration. It’s dying. no wonder a row broke out But hey, at least we get to in the press between Toursee Rihanna at a Carnival ism Minister Obie Wilchnext year. For a price, of combe and Major over who course. would deliver the bad news. Until next week I will I can only imagine that leave you with these words conversation: from Albert Einstein, Wilchcombe (to the By INIGO ‘NAUGHTY’ ZENICAZELAYA which I feel best sums up press): Major will deliver the whole scenario: “We the financials. y’all say, we partying again ers.” cannot solve our problems Major (to the press): We next May’. “Some workers are be- with the same thinking gave the ministry the finanI have long wondered ing ‘forced’ to sign for their we used when we created cials long time, they will re- whether the whole point of payout cheques without them.” lease the information. ‘Carnival’ was to give the having a clear assessment Wilchcombe (picks up PLP government a reason or understanding of the • Inigo ‘Naughty’ Zenicaphone and calls Major): to throw a big bash right process or if they are being zelaya is the resident standMa bey, you better carry ya before the general election. compensated correctly.” up comic at Jokers Wild bald head and tell dem peo- A rally to end all rallies, if All of this coming on Comedy Club at the Atlanple how much money yinna you will. All on the people’s the heels of an announce- tis, Paradise Island, resort den lose again. And what- dime. ment made earlier in the and presents ‘Mischief and ever you do you better don’t This year’s event was sup- month by the Baha Mar Mayhem in da AM’ from call my name posed to be a Claims Committee, inform- 6am to 10am, Monday to cause I up for more fiscally ing Baha Mar workers to Friday, and ‘The Press Box’ re-election so “Carnival was sold responsible basically ‘take it, or leave sports talk show on Sunday I’ne on ya run. to Bahamians as one. That’s it’. Also boldly stating that from 10am to 1pm on KISS Thus we a big money grab probably there was little or no other FM 96.1. He also writes a learned this why we saw recourse. sports column in The Tribwhere everyone week that our lower tier ceThe Baha Mar Claims une on Tuesday. Comments yearly ‘fete’ and their costume- lebrities like Committee, headed by an- and questions to naughty@ BAHA Mar workers going to collect the pay they are owed this cost taxpayers making granny Wyclef and other ‘political fossil’, for- tribunemedia.net week. another $10 Destra (no mer State Minister for Fiwould get a ‘lil million to put offence) take nance Mr James Smith, icily on and only piece’ of the the stage. commented on the situation generated Next year? saying “that while it would millions from the around a half I’m sure they certainly ‘consider’ correctmillion in di- thousands upon will pull out ing the settlement sum ofrect revenue. thousands of all the stops. fered in the event of a misMy God. Beyoncé or take, the former employees tourists rushing If that isn’t Rihanna, have ‘no legal entitlement’ bad enough, to the country to Drake or Pit- to any of the funds the comPaul Major, shake up ‘on da bull perhaps? mittee is administering.” practicing reWe all know The audacity of these road’.” visionist histhe ‘swing retread politicos, singing tory that so train’ will be loudly for their supper, typifies our current govern- in full effect. without a care as to who ment, had the gumption to Meanwhile, we will lose they deafen in the process. say (with a straight face) millions of dollars (again). Let me do the math on that Carnival was never Mother’s Day (a genuine this Baha Mar claims fiasintended to make a profit. money-making holiday for co. The Baha Mar Claims Never mind that the event many businesses) will get Committee wants former was sold to Bahamians as a mashed up (again). workers to: big money grab where eveHundreds will ‘shake up’ 1 Basically take what is ryone and their costume- in the streets (again). doled out to them, whether making granny would get And thousands will vote the figures are correct or a ‘lil piece’ of the millions for the PLP again. not. from the thousands upon My God in Heaven, 2 Dispute the claims if thousands of tourists rush- please tell me we are better they are incorrect; however, ing to the country to shake than this. know going into the process up ‘on da road’. that they don’t have a snowWell, judging by the ball’s chance in Hell of findevent receipts, there wasn’t ing or getting restitution a whole lot of shaking gothrough the courts. Another incident that ing on. Except for us. Ba3 Be grateful for whatcaught my eye was the inhamians, it seems, we were ever you get, because you so busy ‘getting swing’ that famous, long awaited Baha really have no legal rights to Fri Sept 30th Paul Major (and by exten- Mar employees payout. It the fund. - Tues Oct 4th, 2016 sion Minister Wilchcombe, seems the numbers in some Well in this equation, one and by extension this cur- cases didn’t add up in the fi- plus two plus three all add rent government) managed nal payouts. up to another bitter pill for In an article in Thurs- displaced Bahamians to to shake $23 million from our pockets in two years day’s Tribune, the distorted swallow, along with more in exchange for a bucket of payout picture became a bit double-talk, lack of transglitter and a couple feath- more clear. parency and cronyism from Free National Movement the present administration. ers. Think about it, $23m Leader Dr Hubert Minnis And another win for for(that we know of) gone for took issue with the process, eign investors, who seem two disastrous weekends as well as the government to be popping up all over, while (according to Mr Ma- and the Baha Mar Claims and not wearing their ID jor) 25,000 tourists sit on Committee, on how the badges. the cruise ships every week- process of issuing claims end. And no facts to back and how it was handled up Major’s claim of millions in such a cold and callous generated in projected im- manner. Minnis also noted that The irony in all of this is pact. And no heads rolling. And he still hasn’t been the process failed Bahami- that as my Bahamian brothan workers, offering these ers and sisters suffer from fired. My God. being short changed by our I notice no one is talk- comments: “Government now ex- government, other entities ing about ‘heads in beds’ anymore. I also noticed the pects former employees to (read Chinese banks, invesfull page advertisement in be grateful for what they tors and local opportunists newspapers promoting next are getting, in some cases willing to sell out Bahayear’s music makers contest less than what is due to mians to highest bidder) continue to line their deep the day before the com- them, and then be quiet.” “Little direction or ‘de- pockets. All of these varimission gave us this year’s financials. Which basically tails’ have been provided to ous entities are getting rich, means, ‘We don’t care what the former Baha Mar work- while we Bahamians are
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Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 11
Analysis: Assessing the threat from Hurricane Matthew By DR JEFF MASTERS Director of Meteorology Weather Underground TROPICAL Storm Watches are posted for the ‘ABC’ islands of the Netherlands Antilles - Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao - as Matthew advances westwards at 16mph across the eastern Caribbean. An Air Force hurricane hunter aircraft was in Matthew on Thursday morning, and at 9am EDT found hurricane-force winds of 75mph in a small region to the northeast of the storm’s centre. Surface winds were a bit lower in data from the airborne stepped frequency microwave radiometer (SFMR), and based on this, the National Hurricane Center held Matthew’s top sustained winds at 70mph, just shy of hurricane strength, in its 11am EDT advisory. Satellite loops on Thursday morning showed that Matthew was showing the classic signs of a storm struggling with high wind shear - the centre was fully exposed to view, and Matthew’s heavy thunderstorms were limited to the northeast side, thanks to strong upper-level winds out of the southwest that were creating high wind shear of 20 to 25 knots. Matthew has grown to impressive size, with its heavy thunderstorms extending from the northern coast of South America to the northern Lesser Antilles Islands, and if it weren’t for the high wind shear affecting it, Matthew would fill the entire eastern Caribbean. At upper levels, high cirrus clouds streaming to the north of Matthew show the presence of a powerful outflow channel, which is helping ventilate the storm and allowing it to hold its own in the face of the high wind shear. There is also evidence of a second outflow channel becoming established to Matthew’s south, which one can see in the latest Upper Level Winds analysis from the University of Wisconsin CIMSS group. If this second outflow channel becomes well-established, rapid intensification of Matthew becomes more likely if the wind shear affecting the storm relaxes.
A CHART from Intellicast with the lines showing the various possible paths of the storm. Aiding development today were warm ocean waters of 29.5°C (85°F). The 8am EDT Thursday SHIPS model output analysed 50 to 55 per cent relative humidity at mid-levels of the atmosphere over Matthew, which is lower than optimal for tropical cyclone formation, and water vapour satellite loops showed Matthew was butting into a region of dry air.
THREE-DAY FORECAST
Matthew will continue west through Friday, slowing down from a forward speed of 15mph on Thursday morning to five to 10 mph by Friday night. The core of the storm will make its closest approach to the ‘ABC’ islands of the Netherlands Antilles on Friday. These islands will be on the weak (left) side of the storm, and may escape receiving tropical storm winds, though rains of one to two inches can be expected. Given the high wind shear currently affecting Matthew, no intensification is likely the re-
mainder of Thursday, and we may even see a weakening of the storm’s winds. The latest SHIPS model forecast predicts that the wind shear will drop to the low range, less than 10 knots, by Saturday. If this forecast verifies, we should some some gradual intensification on Friday, followed by more rapid strengthening on Saturday and Sunday. The 70 forecasts from the 00Z Thursday European (ECMWF) model ensemble and GFS model ensemble showed a wide variety of solutions for the track of Matthew. The two models have grown closer together in their solutions compared to Wednesday, but the European model still shows a considerably slower and more westerly track for Matthew than the GFS model.
LONGER-RANGE FORECAST Huge differences continue in the longer-range model forecasts for Matthew.
A large upper-level low a landfall in Haiti on Tuespressure system has sepa- day morning. As one can rated from the jet stream see from the latest set of and will meander over east- ensemble model runs, the central US during the re- long-range uncertainties mainder of this week. The in Matthew’s long-range steering currents associated track are high. Hopefully, with this low are expected these forecast discrepancies to be strong enough to pull will be resolved by Friday Matthew sharply to the morning, when data from north by the the NOAA weekend. Gulfstream‘On rare This sharp IV jet on the turn is expect- occasions, when environment ed to occur on wind shear is surrounding Friday night or Matthew will on Saturday, low and dry be available. and the exact air is absent, a This aircraft timing of the hurricane will (nicknamed turn has major become a “perfect “Gonzo”), implications whose dropfor who experi- storm”, reaching sondes can ences the peak the maximum improve track wrath of the forecasts by storm. An ear- potential intensity as much as 20 lier turn is be- (MPI) that physics per cent, will ing predicted will allow.’ make its first by the GFS flight Thursmodel, with day evening. a landfall by the storm in It’s good to have “Gonzo” eastern Cuba on Monday back, as it was down for morning. Matthew is then extended maintenance in predicted to move through late August and early Septhe central Bahamas on tember due to a corrosion Tuesday. problem, and was not availThe European model has able at all during Hurricane Matthew heading north- Hermine. wards more than a day later Matthew is expected than the GFS model, with to have favourable condi-
tions for intensification this weekend as it heads north, with low wind shear, very warm ocean waters, and a very moist atmosphere. The models are quite bullish on this storm being a hurricane when it makes its landfall early next week in the islands, and residents of Jamaica, Haiti and eastern Cuba should anticipate the possibility of a Category 2 hurricane - possibly stronger - affecting them early next week. How strong could Matthew get? On rare occasions, when wind shear is low and dry air is absent, a hurricane will become a “perfect storm”, reaching the maximum potential intensity (MPI) that physics will allow. This maximum is a function of how warm the ocean is and how unstable the atmosphere is. Last year’s Hurricane Patricia, which intensified to 215mph sustained winds over record-warm waters of 31°C (88°F) off the Pacific coast of Mexico, was one example of such a rare “perfect storm”. Hurricane scientist Dr Kerry Emanuel, of MIT, has developed a relatively simple set of equations which will determine the approximate MPI of a hurricane, and real-time plots of this are available at wxmaps.org. In the case of Matthew, its MPI if it was in the region between Jamaica and Haiti today would be approximately 150 knots (170mph). If Matthew were in the northeast Bahamas, where ocean temperatures are warmer and the atmosphere more unstable, the MPI is higher, near 165 knots (190mph). These MPI numbers will change slightly when and if Matthew reaches these areas several days from now. Keep in mind that “perfect storm” conditions are difficult to achieve, and it is quite unlikely that Matthew will reach its MPI. Dr Jeff Masters cofounded Weather Underground in 1995 and flew with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration ‘Hurricane Hunters’ from 1986 to 1990. This is his blog from www. wunderground.com yesterday.
BAHAMAS PUT ON HURRICANE ALERT from page one
on Tuesday,” Mr Dean said. “Later in the afternoon it will spread to Cat Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay and Eleuthera. Residents must ensure that all their preseasonal precautions have been taken. They need to ensure that their shutters are available and in good working condition and that all the debris is cleaned up around the yard. “There is a general agreement and all the models have indicated that the central and southeast Bahamas will most certainly be impacted with strong tropical storm winds. Here in New Providence we will also get rain and tropical storm force winds but not as heavy. Abaco will also be in that mix, and Grand Bahama, Bimini and Andros will be out of it. It is too early to say what the intensity will be but we will be following the storm closely.” Mr Dean said he hopes by the time Matthew gets to The Bahamas it “would have weakened significantly”. At 5pm yesterday, Matthew had maximum sustained winds of 75mph and was centred 150 miles north-northeast of Curaçao, according to the US National Hurricane Centre in Miami. Hurricaneforce winds extended out for 70 miles and tropical stormforce winds extended outward up to 185 miles. Weather experts Accuweather said the storm crossed through the southernmost islands of the Lesser Antilles on Wednesday,
dropping heavy rain and causing some wind damage. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries as businesses, airports, schools and government offices closed throughout the area. During Friday and Saturday, the centre of the storm will be well away from land, Accuweather said. However, the large size and strength of the storm will cause breezy conditions with occasional squalls along the northern coasts of Venezuela and Colombia, as well as the southern coasts of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Haiti, the weather website added. “Persons in Jamaica and Haiti, followed by eastern Cuba, and later the Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas should be prepared for deteriorating weather, which could feature hurricane conditions from Sunday into early next week,” according to Accuweather. “In many of these areas, damaging winds, coastal flooding, flash flooding and mudslides from Matthew will threaten lives and property.” The storm warning comes as the country gets ready to mark the anniversary of Hurricane Joaquin, which ripped through the Central and Southern Bahamas on October 1, destroying homes and buildings and leaving heavy flooding in its wake. Matthew passed over the eastern Caribbean yesterday, causing at least one death. Officials in St Vincent said a 16-year-old boy was crushed by a boulder as he tried to clear a blocked drain.
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PAGE 12, Friday, September 30, 2016
THE TRIBUNE
A TRIPARTITE Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Finance, the Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) which is the private sector arm of the IDB and the Grand Bahama Port Authority was signed on Thursday, September 29, 2016 at the Ministry for Grand Bahama. Shown standing from left are Florencia Attademo-Hirt, IDB’s representative in The Bahamas; Jerry Butler, Caribbean executive director, Inter-American Development Bank; Sarah St George, vice-chairman, Grand Bahama Port Authority; Melvin Seymour, permanent secretary, Ministry for Grand Bahama; and Graham Torode, chief executive officer, The Grand Bahama Development Company (DEVCO). Seated from left are: Henry St George, vice-president, Grand Bahama Port Authority; Dr Michael Darville, Minister for Grand Bahama; James Scriven, general manager, Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC); and Michael Halkitis, chairman of the IDB and IIC and Bahamas Minister of State for Finance. Photo: Vandyke Hepburn/BIS
Partnership deal to make IADB resources available in Freeport By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net A MEMORANDUM of understanding was signed on Thursday establishing a “strategic partnership” between the Ministry of Finance, the Inter-American Investment Corporation and the Grand Bahama Port Authority that will make Inter-American Development Bank resources available for private sector development in Freeport. State Minister for Finance Michael Halkitis, Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Executive Director for Caribbean
Constituency Jerry Butler; Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) General Manager James Scriven; Henry St George and Sarah St George, vicechairman of the Grand Bahamas Port Authority (GBPA), attended the signing at the Ministry for Grand Bahama. Mr St George said the GBPA is excited about the agreement and hopes “the MOU can become a foundation for future sustainable economic growth in Freeport”. “The overarching principle of this MOU is that where opportunities for major economic development exist in Freeport – a new innovative foundation
for financing has now been put in place. The IIC resources are now potentially available to the private sector in the form of financing either as a loan, an equity investment, or guarantees,” he said. Mr St George noted that the IIC team had visited Freeport and was given a tour of the industrial sector and other investments in Grand Bahama. Following the tour, he said the team was impressed and its enthusiasm for Freeport grew. “What differentiates the IIC from a typical financial institution, and why the GBPA wanted to partner with them, is that while their core business is to pro-
Funeral Service For
Kiondre “Theo” Aquino Nathone Hanna, 22
a resident of Sidney Street, Chippingham, will be held at Golden Gates World Outreach Ministries, Carmichael Road, on Saturday, 1st October, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. Officiating will be Bishop Ros Davis, assisted by other Ministers of the Gospel. Interment follows in Lakeview Memorial Gardens, John F. Kennedy Drive.
Left to cherish his memories are his mother: Mrs. Latoya Munnings Mignott; father:Mr. Paul Hanna; stepfather: Maurice Mignott Sr.; 1 son: Malachi Amir Stubbs Hanna; grandmothers: Karen Munnings, Vangy Hanna (Pre-deceased) Stephanie Ferguson & ALma Russell; grandfathers: Gary Ferguson & Pat McClure; 3 sisters: Sasha & Paul’shanae Hanna, Shanique Strachan & Taleah Russell; 2 step sisters: Mesha & Clarissa Mignott; 4 brothers: Leathone Hanna (RBDF), Kevin, Tray & Lathone Hanna; 1 step brother: Maurice Mignott Jr.; 1 nephew: Leathone Hanna Jr.; great grandmother: Carmie Munnings Samuels; aunts: Angela Hanna-Evans, Silvia Hanna, WPC 593 Allaydice Cooper, Debra Coakley, Theola Armbrister, Gaichelle Russell, Shavaunda, Julie & Massia Russell, Sarah Williams, Syria & Simone McClure & Royann Collie; uncles: Ramon McClur (Hanna), CPL 574 Peter Hanna, Garret & Jamie Ferguson, Sterling Evans; grand aunts: Fredricka Fowler, Lolita Wright, Patrice Brown, Linda & Janet Russell of Miami, Florida & Hycinth Pinnock, Violet Graham, Ruth Long, Samantha Fowler, Nathalie Munnings & Dellarese Munnings; grand uncles: Edward Roker, Junior Ferguson, Alfred Russell, Sidney Mitchell, Carlos Fowler, Wesley, Dereck, Dion King, Eurick & Richard Munnings, Terry Outten, Godfrey, Jimsey, Charlesd, Christopher & Andrew Colebrooke; great grand aunts: Leona Smith, Silvia Dorsette & Elvy Hanna; great grand uncle: Usless Strachan; god parents: Julia Buchannan, Geraldine Neely, Coretta Frazier, Raquell Fowler, Ulandra Jefferson, Corey Johnson, Timothy Munnings & Tony Missick; sepcial friends: Leevanya Archer & Demetria Stubbs; best friend: Eric Collie; cousins: Tenell Taylor, Javon Colebrooke, Teresse & Sirley Evans, Faylene Williams, Milton, Kendal, Elizabeth (Jetlyn) & Frantazah, Nadia Mitchell, Mr. & Mrs. Malinda Mills (Canada), Sharvargo, Elvargo & Oneil Mitchell, Milton Jr., Arnold & Olga Bain, Deresha, Radesha & Petra Hanna, Annis & Comeich Ewing, Travis, Tevan, Trever, Kyle, Andrew, Tamika, Dave, Dellerese, Wesley Jr., & Shenika Munnings (Miami, Fl), Erica, Tameca, Thlyn, Queenie, Eric & Elroy Roker, Javon Saunders, Destiny, David, Carlos, Clarissa, Nikisha, Felicia, Corlene, Tanish, Morgan, Malissa, Shavon, Jordan, Ricardo, Carlton, Rosrick, Carltrico, Dereck, Darenika, Devon, Jeal, Richard, Jr., Rickia, Joshua, Nathan, Kaylon, Dion Jr., Berkley, Keno, Peter Jr., Silvana, Shane, Zachane, Paula, Rodesha, Cardesha, Cordero, Petra, Pria, Laatiqua, Savannah, Shawndice, Shakur, Judstin, Jerricko, Kramel, Kevin, Tariah, Trevonte, Trequan, Trinity, Atone, Peter Jr., Donte, Sylvano, Fereddricko, Robert, Desmond, Criag, Malayshia, Demertrius, Stacey Arthur, Scienne, Tanya, Kevin, Ricka, Nika, Corey, Doresha Knight, Ella Strachan, Asher Imbert, Robert, Charles, Almano, Lathone, Almonique, Ashton, Dominitque & Val Butler, Tyisha, Marcian, Marcello Harris, Jarvis, Farren, Rachel & MJ; a host of other relatives & friends: Elene Thompson, Lorenzo Ferguson & family, Vernae Miller, Catherine Buchanan & family, Bostfield Butler, Leroy Russell, Britney Clarke,Karen Clarke & family, Masie russell, Eily & Everette Roker, Terez Roberts & family, Hermis Sands & Josey Mackey, the Sidney Street family, Cheryl Beneby & family Mr. & Mrs. Whyms, Bishop Cannel F. Swain & family, Shirley Cole & family, Dazgia Moss, Kendyce Strachan, Sundaya Lewis, Wanda Coakley & family, Ms. Williams (New York), Jackie Poitier, Sherryan Adderley, Deborah Rodgers & family, Sky Collie, Even St Charles, Theresa Laing & family, Betty Griffin & family, the Neely family, Nadia & Kevin Solomon, Shanny, the Peter & Brougham Street family, Tanya Mitchell, Tamika Forbes, Alicia Thompson, Shanador Green, Deveron Palmer, Dion & Leon Rolle, Rachel Thompson, Natalie Thompson, Higher Ground Ministies, Carmel Gibson, the Colony Club family, D C Sweeting class of 2011, Royal Bahamas Defence Force Commando Squadron NE48/18,Omar Albury, the Strong Back Rams Team, the Lady Rams Team, Demerite’s Funeral Home family & others too numerous to mention. There will be NO VIEWING. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Demeritte’s Funeral Home, Market Street.
vide financing, all of their projects must also help spur economic growth and promote sustainability,” he said. Mr St George said that recipients of ICC capital will also have access to IIC’s expertise. Mr Halkitis said that while the IIC has provided financial assistance to several private sector entities in The Bahamas, today’s MOU signing is historic because of the potential of the initiative expanding to other family islands. “The city of Freeport is known for its industries and proximity to international destinations. Moreover, ongoing and prospective economic activities are fac-
tors that will contribute to achieving the objectives of the MOU,” he said. He praised the IIC - the private sector arm of the IDB - for its approach in recognising that there is a niche in The Bahamas for which the institution can provide much assistance in advancing a potential investment from an idea to a reality. “While this tripartite arrangement is merely an explorative initiative, I am confident that the minister for Grand Bahama and senior staff from the Grand Bahama Port Authority will provide excellent assistance to ensure that there is positive outcomes from the MOU,” Mr Halkitis said.
“Further, I note that the Ministry of Finance, in its capacity, as the Bahamas liaison to the IIC, is committed to the advancement of any initiative to enhance the socio-economic and environmental development of the country.” Dr Darville said the signing will establish a strategic partnership with the GBPA to provide private financing for infrastructural works and other specified projects in Freeport. “This is exciting news for us on Grand Bahama because it would pave the way for major upgrades in the city, the much needed capital injection into the local economy and construction jobs,” he said.
THE TRIBUNE
‘The Bahamas’ own street philosopher’
Friday, September 30, 2016, PAGE 13
PAGE 14, Friday, September 30, 2016
THE TRIBUNE
ACTION from the tournament.
PRESENTING awards at the Marco City Free National Movement Association back-to-school basketball tournament.
FNM HOSTS MARCO CITY BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
PARTICIPANTS in the basketball tournament in Marco City.
MARCO City Youth teamed up with The Marco City Free National Movement Association to stage a back-to-school basketball tournament. The event was designed to create camaraderie among the youth and provide a positive outlet for young people to come together. The organising committee led by Vance Barr and Kendal Culmer benefitted tremendously from collaborating with Dudley Seide of Reach Out Youth Organisation (ROYO). Former Senator Michael Pintard and the Marco City FNM team provided the
resources and personnel required to stage the event which drew scores of young people participating and watching. The tournament was competitive and thoroughly enjoyable. Mr Seide welcomed participants and Mr Pintard spoke to competitors about opportunities sports opens up for young athletes and the importance of being academically sound to take advantage of any scholarship opportunities that might arise. He also emphasised the role sports plays in developing discipline and how important it is to carefully prepare if one was going to
succeed at the game on the court or in life. Against the backdrop of the frequent violence in various communities the take away quote he left with the young men and women was “turn to each other, not on each other�. The tournament series will run for the next four weeks on various parks throughout the constituency. ROYO teams won both the junior and senior divisions. Trophies were presented at the end of the competition. Next week more activities will be added to the tournament and prizes given out to athletes and spectators.