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The Tribune
Volume:114 No.220, OCTOBER 6TH, 2017
Weekend
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1
Friday, October 6, 2017 film books music travel history gardening televis ion animals
Weekend
ENHANCE YOUR FITNESS Page 16
Journey of hope
WEEKEND: BAHAMIAN FILM SHOWS JOURNEY OF HOPE
Bahamian film tells trafficking story Intervie w, pages 4&5
Turnquest: Real deficit $695m By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribumedia.net
THE former Christie administration was “fiscally incompetent” and placed the Bahamas in a “financial ditch,” Minister of Finance K Peter Turnquest (pictured) said yesterday while revealing the country’s deficit for the 2016-2017 fiscal year has risen to $695m. This is nearly $200m more than his initial deficit projection of $500m. It is also $595m more than the former government projected, Mr Turnquest said.
MPs told millions owed due to ‘incompetent’ PLP Admitting he underestimated the extent of the debt, Mr Turnquest said the country’s deficit was adjusted because not all of the bills incurred under the former PLP government were presented when he spoke on the matter during the 2016-2017 budget debate. In addition, the deputy prime minister said, bills were still coming into the government as he gave a snap shot of the
hefty bills the Minnis administration is faced with. In June, $381m in taxpayer dollars was spent for commitments dating as far back as January of this year. “Mr Speaker, I am willing to admit that I was in fact wrong with my projection of $500m,” the East Grand Bahama MP said during the morning sitting of Parliament yesterday. SEE PAGE SIX
FNM ‘HYPOCRISY’ OVER SPY BILL
WEBSHOPS INSIST ‘WE PAY OUR FAIR SHARE’
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
criticising PLP’s version in opposition. State Minister for Legal Affairs Elsworth Johnson, NOT only did Official who tabled the Bill last Opposition Leader Philip week, described the Pro“Brave” Davis decry gressive Liberal Party’s the “hypocrisy” of the version earlier this Minnis administrayear as “dangerous.” tion for seeking to Mr Davis said yesenact its version of terday: “The very the Interception of person who called Communication Bill, on all right thinkbut he said in the ing and concerned House of Assembly Bahamians to march yesterday the adminin opposition to the istration’s tabled bill ‘Spy Bill’ is the very infringes on the civil member to table liberties of Baha- OPPOSITION that which was so leader Philip mians in ways the despised.” Christie administra- ‘Brave’ Davis Like former Attortion’s Bill sought to ney General Allyson avoid. Maynard-Gibson pointed The Minnis adminis- out recently, Mr Davis said tration is facing criticism the newly tabled Bill does for trying to make the Bill law despite fiercely SEE PAGE SIX
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor and NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter
CLEAN up work after the storm hit the Bahamas in 2016.
HURRICANE FUNDS REMAIN UNTRACED By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net
THE Minnis administration has been unable to track down $42m of $150m borrowed under the former Christie administration for hurricane repairs, Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest said yesterday, revealing in Parliament officials can only give an account for $108m of the hefty loan.
However, he added, this does not mean the remaining money is unaccounted for, just that the government had not been able to trace it but is still looking. Last October, nearly seven months ahead of the 2017 general election, the former government moved a resolution in the House of Assembly to defray the costs of recovery and reconstruction efforts needed as a result of 2016’s Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Joaquin in 2015. SEE PAGE THREE
‘PAY UP’: STUDENTS IGNORE LOAN PLEA By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
THE Education Loan Authority (ELA) is expected to resume loan services to students in the “not too distant future,” ELA Chairman Michael Foulkes disclosed yesterday, adding the entity has also commenced legal action in the Supreme Court against delinquent borrowers and guarantors to recover the more than $150m it is owed.
Mr Foulkes made the statement in the House of Assembly during continued contributions from MPs thanking Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling for delivering the Speech from the Throne in May. According to the Golden Gates MP, requests to have loan holders come in and amicably agree to settlements and payment options have only resulted in 25 per cent of persons with delinquent accounts either paying their loans in full or
becoming current on their loans. Mr Foulkes said this leaves a “whopping and unacceptable” 75 per cent of loan holders who have not paid or made attempts to pay. He said the trend continues despite an incentive programme put in place by the ELA to help students who recognise the need to pay off their loans. That programme will be discontinued in February 2018. SEE PAGE FIVE
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
WEB SHOPS yesterday slammed the Minister of Tourism’s “reckless” attack on the sector’s taxes and regulation, charging he was “out of touch with the industry he supervises”. The Gaming House Operators Association, in a statement issued to Tribune Business, argued that the web shop industry already paid a tax rate nearly triple that levied on hotel-based casinos. Arguing that its members “pay more in taxes than Atlantis, Baha Mar and Resorts World Bimini combined”, the Association said that unlike its hotel-based counterparts the web shops enjoyed “not a penny” in tax breaks and incentives in return. SEE BUSINESS SECTION
DUE TO THE NATIONAL HEROES DAY HOLIDAY,
THE TRIBUNE WILL RETURN TO NEWSSTANDS ON TUESDAY
PAGE 2, Friday, October 6, 2017
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MISS World Bahamas Geena Thompson hosted a press conference yesterday at the TIG Foundation to launch her project, ‘Hope for the Homeless’. Also pictured is Elder Minalee Hanchell of Great Commission Ministries and Jerome Sawyer, Vice President of Corporate Sponsorship and Media Relations for the Miss Bahamas Organization. Photo Shawn Hanna/Tribune staff
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MISS WORLD BAHAMAS AIMS TO BRING ‘HOPE TO THE HOMELESS’ MISS World Bahamas Geena Thompson is on a mission to help homeless persons. The beauty queen has partnered with three charities to create “Hope for the Homeless” - a three stage project to help rebuild the lives of those displaced by recent hurricanes as well as provide a shelter for women and children in need of emergency housing on an ongoing basis. The first phase of the project was to give immediate relief to hurricane victims staying at the New Providence Community Centre, which served as emergency shelter before and after Hurricane Irma. The second phase will be to purchase a home for women and children in need of emergency shelter in conjunction with Great Commission Ministries. The final stage of the project will be to help with rebuilding efforts in Ragged Island and Acklins, the two southern islands worst hit by Hurricane Irma. “I can’t imagine what it would be like to be displaced, away from home for days while facing an uncertain future,” Ms Thompson said. “Many of them are filled with worry because they don’t know what is next for them. My hope is that through this project, our combined efforts will help to bring them some peace of mind.”
MISS World Bahamas Geena Thompson speaks yesterday. Ms Thompson is brand ambassador for the TIG Foundation. The group’s director of administration and finance Erica Laing said the foundation is happy to help those in need. “The TIG Foundation was pleased to partner with Miss World Bahamas Geena Thompson, bringing help and hope to the residents of various Family Islands displaced by Hurricane Irma,” she said. “We saw fit to donate goods to
our fellow Bahamians who were evacuated to New Providence and housed by New Providence Community Centre.” In light of the mission, December 8 will be declared Hope for the Homeless Day, according to a press release from the Miss Bahamas Organisation. Those who want to donate to the cause can make a contribution to the “Hope for the Homeless 242” GoFundMe account.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, October 6, 2017, PAGE 3
DEPUTY PM DEFENDS GOVT PAYING ‘A LOT OF MONEY’ TO CATASTROPHIC INSURANCE FUND By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net
HOMES lay scattered after the passing of Hurricane Maria in Roseau, the capital of Dominica. PHOTO: Carlisle Jno Baptiste/AP
FIRST PHYSICIAN VOLUNTEERS STEP UP TO HELP DOMINICA
By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
AT LEAST five physicians have answered the call by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to offer assistance in view of the devastated medical services in Dominica, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday. Dr Sands said the government was still hammering out details but officials are eyeing a possible dispatch next week pending logistics and the success of a blood drive. Following a tour of Dominica on Monday, Dr Minnis announced the Bahamas would increase its initial offer to accept Dominican students wishing to complete their studies and also provide physicians to the storm ravaged island.
Schools Dominica’s schools and medical facilities were extensively damaged by Hurricane Maria. “I know that there were concerns about what we’ve offered before,” Dr Minnis told reporters at Jet Aviation Monday night. “There are still challenges with the medical fraternity, and being a part of CARICOM I’ve offered medical assistance.” Dr Minnis continued: “I will meet with my minister of health and see how many physicians he can send to assist them. Medical services are greatly needed and if we were in this situation we would be seeking assistance not just from first world countries, but from our neighbours.” Dr Sands said previously the government intended to recruit medical professionals on a voluntary basis to assist Dominica, with the invitation extended to all medical health professionals such as nurses and paramedics. On Tuesday, Dr Sands said a major pharmaceutical company had already given a significant donation of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals.
FINANCE Minister K Peter Turnquest defended the Minnis administration’s decision to pay “a lot of money” for policy coverage under the Caribbean Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility even though it did not meet the deductible, affecting the payout received for Hurricane Irma related damage. The deputy prime minister suggested while the payout was disproportionate to the premium, the country would be in a better position if it ever faced widespread devastation as did Dominica or Barbuda as a result of a major storm. He was responding to criticism from Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip “Brave” Davis in the House of Assembly yesterday who insisted that re-enrolling in the insurance was a waste of public resources. The risk insurance policy was dropped under the former Christie administration.
Coverage “Yes, Mr Speaker, we paid a lot of money for the policy coverage and yes we did not meet the deductible for a payout this time, but what about next time?” Mr Turnquest asked. “What if we suffered a direct hit in Nassau as they did in Dominica or Barbuda or even Ragged Island.” He also said: “I am not surprised by the misguided attempts of Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador to score political points. (There is) distorted speculation and uninformed attempts to equate insurance premiums paid with claims recovered. “By their logic, Mr Speaker, no one would ever buy home insurance because the insured property may never experience damage exceeding the deductible. “For example if a pipe bursts and damages the
to the policy of self-insurance against damages from natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes.” He also said: “At the start of this administration, this side was severely criticised for our decision to demit from making payments to the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility. We told the government that experts in the Ministry of Finance, Met Department and the Port Department advised that self-insurance would be more cost beneficial to government. This came after we were unable to make any successful claims in respect of Hurricane Joaquin.
Premiums DEPUTY Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest (left) and Opposition Leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis.
carpet (and) the cost to repair was not significant enough to meet the deductible, they seem to be advocating to homeowners to cancel the entire coverage. So if a hurricane comes
“I am not surprised by the misguided attempts of Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador to score political points. (There is) distorted speculation and uninformed attempts to equate insurance premiums paid with claims recovered.” Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest the homeowner assumes all the risk of repairs to the entire house. How reckless and irresponsible? “This unwise risk taking is what has some of our citizens today sitting under leaking roofs waiting for
government assistance because they cannot afford to fix their properties by themselves,” the East Grand Bahama MP added. “Further following their argument, no one should buy medical insurance because in most cases you pay the premiums all year and the one time you had to go to the doctor the policy does not pay because you have not met the annual deductible. I ask in the same way they suggest that the CCRIF should be cancelled because it had no payout, should they cancel the medical insurance programme?” Earlier during the House session, Mr Davis raised concerns regarding CCRIF. He said: “This is a waste of public resources. It was the result of rank political posturing rather than adhering to the advice of senior policy experts and technical advisors in the public service. “What a painfully humiliating and expensive lesson. Maybe the member for Killarney (Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis) will finally reconcile himself
“Up to that time, the Bahamas had been paying premiums in the tens of millions and was unable to collect anything. “Following (Hurricane) Matthew, I am advised, CCRIF wrote the government suggesting that we may have qualified for loss compensation, this suggestion was referred to the team that had advised earlier and it was that team’s considered view that we would not have qualified. The persons who advised us are still in the Public Service. “The honourable member for Killarney promised this House on several occasions to table the letter received from CCRIF confirming forfeiture of some $33m but to date has flatly refused to do so.” According to a statement from CCRIF dated September 19, 2017 and tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday by Mr Turnquest, the Bahamas received its first payout of $397,598 following Hurricane Irma based on its tropical cyclone policy and excess rainfall policy. Noting the policy is not designed to cover all losses, the statement said it is designed so governments have emergency relief capital when natural disasters strike.
HURRICANE FUNDS REMAIN UNTRACED FROM PAGE ONE
Amid backlash over his administration’s borrowing, then Prime Minister Perry Christie was adamant his government had checks and balances in place to handle the $150m loan. At the time Mr Christie maintained the money would be well accounted for using measures that are already enshrined in law. However, Mr Turnquest told parliamentarians yesterday a great deal of the loaned amount remains unaccounted for. The revelation comes at a time when many homes damaged by both hurricanes have still not been repaired or rebuilt.
Experts He said: “I have often gotten the question from the media lately ‘What did Hurricane Irma cost?’ as if we can just automatically drop this number. It’s not that easy unfortunately. But we do have a team of experts doing the assessments and hope to have a justifiable estimate very soon. “What we do know, however, Mr Speaker, is that we can only trace approximately $108m of the $150m that was supposedly borrowed and spent on Hurricane Matthew. “And while I’m not saying the balance is unaccounted for, all I am saying is we just cannot find it. (We are) still looking, still looking. “So you want to know where the VAT money
gone, that’s just some of it. As we go through we might find more of it. “ When the resolution was brought to Parliament last October, the former prime minister said the combined cost of the damage from both hurricanes was about $600m for Matthew and $200m for Joaquin. This equated 40 per cent of the national budget or nine per cent of GDP. Because of the huge cost associated with restoration and recovery in the wake of both hurricanes, then State Finance Minister Michael Halkitis stressed it was essential the government accessed the funds as it was not possible to finance the recovery efforts from the existing budget. Mr Christie further explained officials from the Ministry of Finance had designed a two-tranche approach to dealing with the funds. He said the funds were exclusively for the reconstruction effort. At the time, Mr Christie said: “The Royal Bank of Canada is the government’s banker. It is with gratitude and pride that I note that all of the banks contacted have readily agreed to participate in the financing that we are about to present by way of resolution to Parliament. “I also note for the information of members that ordinary citizens and residents of the Bahamas have also expressed an effort in participating in this effort and in this respect the Ministry of Finance has designed a two-tranche approach. A tranche for commercial banks for up
to $120m and a tranche for the public in the amount of $30m.” “The Central Bank has recommended that nonresidents with a nexus to the Bahamas be allowed to participate in this offer. So these are high net worth individuals who live in the Bahamas who the Central Bank would facilitate their participation in the $30m offering. “My government accepted the recommendation of the Central Bank. It is for me, therefore, to indicate that these funds would be exclusively used for the reconstruction effort.”
Committee Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, then in opposition, called for the formation of a special committee to monitor how the government spent the $150m. While Dr Minnis acknowledged the funds were needed, he questioned the government’s ability to properly manage the money.
HURRICANE Joaquin hit in 2015. Dr Minnis later told The Nassau Guardian: “We agree that there is mass devastation when we look at Grand Bahama, Andros, and New Providence, especially the south. There is mass devastation. “We agree homes were lost. We agree lives were changed. We agree businesses have been lost and we agree that it has contributed to unemployment. It needs to be fixed. People’s lives need to be changed and their homes need to be corrected. “But this government has a terrible track record of transparency and accountability,” Dr Minnis said last October of the Christie government.
Teachers & Salaried Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited BIDS FOR
COLLECTION AGENCIES The Teachers & Salaried Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited Invites bids from Collections Agencies for the Collection of Delinquent Loan Accounts. Bids are asked to be submitted to the Head Office, Teachers & Salaried Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited, East Street & Independence Drive, on or before October 16, 2017.
PAGE 4, Friday, October 6, 2017
THE TRIBUNE
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Renewed focus on future of Europe THE resumption of Parliament at Westminster following the long summer break, together with another round of Brexit negotiations in Brussels, has ensured that the issue of Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU) is once again at the forefront of the nation’s political and economic agenda. Two other factors – the recent State of the Union address by European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker calling for even greater EU integration and the surprise outcome of last weekend’s federal elections in Germany – have also now put the future of Europe back once more onto the centre stage of world politics. Having secured parliamentary approval, the United Kingdom government invoked last March Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty which provides the mechanism for an EU member state to leave the bloc within a two-year period. The withdrawal negotiations which began soon after in Brussels were said gradually to have stalled. But in an effort to break the stalemate Prime Minister Theresa May has now called for a two-year transition or implementation period immediately following Britain’s departure no later than the end of March, 2019, during which it should continue to have, in particular, access to the single market including free movement of people while the final negotiations covering the detailed terms of the UK’s withdrawal may also run on. The EU has welcomed this as a constructive proposal and Mrs. May apparently hoped that it would kick start the so-called ‘divorce talks’. The British approach appears to be to link any financial settlement to the establishment of a free-trade deal of benefit to all. So far, the signs have been that Brussels has continued to adopt a tough stance, not least as a deterrent to other member states thinking of quitting the bloc. However, the latest and fourth round of talks have just ended on a positive and optimistic note with both sides acknowledging that progress has been made though serious differences remain. The next few months will be critical as the negotiations gather momentum. Mr. Juncker’s proposals for the EU to take a significant leap forward in pursuit of ever closer union with a view to becoming a federal state – more power transferred to Brussels from the nation states, a strengthened common currency for the entire bloc,
extension of the Schengen agreement on removal of borders and a fully fledged European Defence Union – will surely only increase Britain’s determination to leave with as good a deal as it can obtain. This blueprint for the future of the EU was predictable given that its reaction to any setback to its long term plans is simply more Europe. But the result of Germany’s elections represents a new and potentially threatening dimension. Even though Angela Merkel won a fourth consecutive term as Chancellor, the rise of the AfD (Alternative for Germany), a nationalistic and eurosceptic right-wing party which won some 13 per cent of the vote and more than 90 seats in parliament, and the decline of her Christian Democratic Union with only about 30 per cent of the national vote and which will now have to build a new coalition, will herald a period of prolonged domestic uncertainty and could even include a changed approach to the EU. It remains to be seen what affect this will have on the European Commission’s negotiating stance in the short term in relation to Brexit. Britain has made it clear that, liberated from the constraints of the EU it wants to be a free-trading, sovereign nation in charge of its borders again and making its own laws which should be justiciable in its own courts. It is prepared to meet its financial obligations and honour its commitments already entered into as an EU member, but in many ways it is bargaining from a position of strength. So, with two heavyweights fighting it out, the Brexit negotiations already under way to forge a new relationship across-the-board between the UK and EU countries, which involve an unravelling of the complexities and technicalities of the EU’s institutions, will continue to be an enormous challenge to both sides during the coming months and beyond. The conjunction of Brexit and the emergence of the far-right in Germany, the richest and most influential nation in Europe – together with a surge of nationalism in countries like Poland and Hungary which runs counter to Mr. Juncker’s bold vision for greater EU integration –- looks to the outsider to constitute perhaps the greatest challenge and threat to the bloc during the course of its nearly sixty years of existence. There will surely be a period of extreme uncertainty across Europe and only the foolhardy would dare to predict how events may unfold.
Cost of doctor’s report EDITOR, The Tribune. I am deeply concerned with the way that doctors are allowed to charge for a report after a patient has paid to see the doctor reference to a particular illness or injury. The purpose of the visit is to be diagnosed and treated and get well or commence proceedings for some liability. The report costs more than than co-pay in some instances and ought to be the end result of any visit or number of visits. It seems to be big business where persons have been injured by another person’s negligence, that doctors charge sometimes
in excess of $300 to provide details of what they diagnosed and treated. They are in essence collecting from the patient for what was already paid for or for them to tell the patient what they paid for. A patient should be entitled to a written report that reflects what has been said and done by both the doctor and patient, as well as possible long term effects. This issue ought to be addressed by the Minister of Health post haste. Often times, these outrageous, unfair bills have to be paid out of pocket by the patient before any claim can be made and
even if it were not the case, I maintain that a doctor’s report should be a part of the wellness process and ought not to have a cost. It should be the standard that a report is generated based on the patient’s visits and made available to that patient whenever necessary. If a cost is assessed after an initial copy is generated, it should be for the cost of stationary and a small service charge, not the cost of a monthly light bill. HUYLER Nassau, October 3, 2017.
Chester Cooper needs a foot-in-mouth policy EDITOR, The Tribune. Until recently the public could have been tempted to look upon Chester Cooper as a master of the insurance business and a student of politics. After his numerous bewildering utterances, we must rethink that position. He has come across as new to the insurance business, despite his years in it, and as an overly ambitious opportunist way out of his depth in politics. Mr. Cooper has earned the right to have letters behind his name attesting to a level of competency in insurance. The people of Exuma have given him the right to affix the letter MP after his name, attesting to the fact that he was lucky enough to survive the May FNM tsunami. And just as the pundits began thinking out loud that he might have a bright future in front of him within the PLP, Cooper went and spoiled it all by opening his big mouth and giving the most bizarre advice to the government on insurance. Mr. Cooper believes that the government got a raw deal when they purchased sovereign catastrophic risk insurance from a Caribbean-based facility. The raw deal was not in the amount we paid, according to him, but in the fact that hurricanes Irma and Maria didn’t pulverize us enough to cause our payout to exceed our premium. Never mind that the government is first and foremost in the business of protecting its people from harm. And never mind the fact that insurance is only a tool to mitigate the risk of loss of treasure in the event of a natural disaster such as weather-related events. Even the TV character Flo from the comedic Progressive Insurance commercials in the United States would have been bewildered by Mr. Cooper’s twisted insurance logic. Apparently in Mr. Cooper’s fertile mind you should always wait to purchase insurance and the optimal time is not just when the hurricane is 50 miles off the coast of Nassau, but it should be bought at the precise moment when meteorologist Basil Dean starts to project that the hurricane is not only headed to your street but
a fund. The more people sharing the risk and the more each person does to minimize his risk profile, letters@tribunemedia.net the lower the premiums will be. has a 100% certainty of The CCRIF has been so destroying your house. successful in a relatively But insurance doesn’t short space of time that work that way. Over others, including the vener300 years ago Edward able Lloyd’s of London are Lloyd (founder of Lloyds studying its methods and of London) started to copying them. sell policies to ship merMr. Cooper seems to have chants leaving London. belittled the CCRIF simply He decided to collect a fee because it is a Caribbean and pay them for any losses construct run by Caribbean they encountered sailing nationals. Overseeing the the high seas. Board of Directors of the Sail towards the CarFacility is an American ibbean and a possible from the state of Califorencounter with pirates or nia who knows a thing or hurricanes and you paid two about catastrophic risk, a higher fee. Sail towards having overseen the estabAmerica and (in a time lishment of the California before icebergs) you paid a Earthquake Authority lower fee. The fees covered and the Rate Regulation the spread and everyone Division of the California was happy. Department of Insurance. Fast forward to 2017 But that wasn’t good and we are feeling the full enough for ole Chesty. In effects of global warming. a statement, he didn’t just Hurricanes are popping up throw his personal opinion faster and more powerful. into his voodoo insurance Last year, under the PLP, rationale, he dragged the the government let a cataentire PLP into it. strophic risk policy lapse His arguments portray and we missed out on a $32 a man who is green to million payout from the politics. According to him policy. the Bahamas should have The FNM was quick to gone down to the CCRIF instruct the Treasury to and banged the table and pay the premium this year demanded that the entire and with two more months organization do as we say, to go into this hurricane or else. season we have thankfully What he needs to learn only gotten glancing blows is that politics is the art of from hurricanes Irma and compromise. It is about Maria. seeking consensus and Still it was enough to about doing what benefits trigger the complicated the many rather than the algorithms (which combine few. rain, wind speed and storm Mr. Cooper would be surge intensity) used by the well advised to stop his Caribbean Catastrophic temper tantrum and try to Risk Insurance Facillearn that sovereign risk ity based in the Cayman insurance is separate from Islands to disburse an autoany other policy he has ever matic payment equal in this sold. And as a colleague instance to roughly 10% of in the industry, he should the premium we paid. Had show the CCRIF some we taken more of a hit from respect. Irma, we would have gotten They have done such a payout over 20 times a good job with what the bigger than the premium industry calls sovereign we paid. parametric insurance that That is how insurance governments in the Afriworks. You don’t insure can Union, and the Pacific your house against fire and Islands Forum are sending then cuss out your insurpeople to Cayman to study ance company when you their methods. only had minor smoke Take note Mr. Cooper – damage and the cost of for any government sitting repair didn’t meet the in the middle of hurricane deductible. You say thank alley, insurance is an investGod you didn’t lose your ment not a cost. whole house. Insurance works when THE GRADUATE there is a pool of potential Nassau, beneficiaries paying into October 4, 2017.
LETTERS
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, October 6, 2017, PAGE 5
STUDENTS IGNORE LOAN PLEA FROM PAGE ONE To that end, Mr Foulkes said the board of the ELA recently met and is “thoroughly and fully committed” to availing itself of every legal avenue at its disposal to ensure, as best it can, that all the loans are repaid.” In June, Education Minister Jeffrey Lloyd warned those owing the ELA to either pay up or face “grief.” He said the outstanding payments placed a roadblock before the government in approving new scholarship applications. Mr Foulkes yesterday informed Parliament the ELA board will continue to whenever and wherever possible, bring legal action in the Supreme Court against borrowers and guarantors. “No loans have been extended over the past eight years because in excess of $157 million is outstanding to date. That is $157 million,” Mr Foulkes said during his contribution. “Thousands of students returned home after completing their degrees. Most of them have jobs, some good jobs and some, wellpaying jobs, but have not paid their loans or worse, not even made an effort to do so. “Mr Speaker, in fact, there are in excess of 4,400 delinquent loans and of this group, the vast majority of the students, are right here
at home, working, but are not paying these loans.” He continued: “It may be hard to believe, but we have brothers and sisters among us, who obtained loans as much as $99,000 and never made one single, solitary payment over many years. “They signed for the money, their guarantors or co-applicants also signed. They received the money and they never looked back.” Mr Foulkes, reflecting on the turmoil his office faces as it continues to turn new applicants away due to a lack of financial resources, stated: “Mr Speaker, they should have looked back because, if they did, they might have been moved by the many persons who, just last month, were trying to find funds to attend college at home or abroad, but were unable to.” He added: “Just perhaps, if they saw the many students, who received acceptance letters to many colleges and universities but could not avail themselves of those opportunities, perhaps then, they might have paid off their loan by now, or at least, made payments on a regular basis.” Mr Foulkes urged all persons not paying their loans, and their guarantors or co-applicants, to contact the authority at 323-6322 or visit the ELA’s office at 97 Collins Avenue, so that an arrangement can be made.
MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT SAYS MINISTER’S NHI STATEMENTS ‘CONFUSING’ By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
MEDICAL Association of the Bahamas President Dr Sy Pierre yesterday called Health Minister Dr Duane Sands’ proclamation that a revised National Health Insurance scheme will be relaunched before year-end “confusing.” Calling on Dr Sands to clarify the timeline, Dr Pierre suggested it conflicted with the health minister’s later comments that board executives have not yet met extensively and the need for a sustainable approach.
More than 25,000 Bahamians and legal residents have enrolled in the scheme to date; however, critics are of the opinion that people are getting no more than what was already available to them in terms of benefits through the public healthcare system. Yesterday, Dr Sands said: “The (NHIA) board has carriage of the NHI programme, they know what the guiding principles are and they will define what NHI will look like moving forward. “We expect that roll out by the end of this calendar year, they should have the revised NHI plan, that is the timeline they’ve been given.”
Revised
Framework
Dr Sands told The Nassau Guardian on Monday that a “revised, leaner and more effective NHI programme that combines primary care and catastrophic care will be relaunched before the end of the year.” Dr Pierre sits on the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) board as president of the Medical Association of the Bahamas. “I’m not sure how to interpret what was said by the minister of health,” he said. “This is very confusing as on the one hand there is a seeming guarantee that the government will have an NHI scheme by year end, then it is stated that the new programme must be ‘sustainable’ …., that the board has only been working for a few short months and that the government wants to
The current legal and financial framework of the NHI organisation, inclusive of its objectives, activities and outcomes, are being reviewed by the newly formed board of the NHI Authority, according to NHIA Chairman Dr Robin Roberts. When contacted this week for an update on the scheme, Dr Roberts said: “The planning and business of a National Health Insurance programme is complex. “The NHIA board has an obligation to due diligence of the NHI current status first and foremost, as we proceed to define a formal strategic plan and its implementation. “We are most cognisant of our responsibility to apprise and engage the public,” he added.
MINISTER of Health Dr Duane Sands. avoid the ‘missteps’ of the previous administration. “I truly don’t see how the initial statement giving a three month time-line for the launch of an NHI programme that includes both primary and catastrophic care can be synchronised with the later statements indicating that the board has only had a few meetings, wanting to avoid missteps, create a programme that is sustainable, etc.” The Christie administration launched NHI’s primary care phase just prior to the general election back in May.
BPL DISCONNECTORS ‘FACING THREATS’ AFTER ‘BRIBE’ CLAIMS BAHAMAS Power and Light disconnectors are facing harsh criticism and in some cases threats from consumers in the wake of remarks by BPL Chairwoman Darnell Osborne, who recently said 40 per cent of disconnected customers were being reconnected illegally by paying “bribes” to employees. The claims were outlined in a statement from the Bahamas Electrical Workers Union (BEWU) released this week, which also outlined a culture of alleged leniency being shown to senior staff at BPL embroiled in controversy while junior staff are subjected to different treatment.
Investigation Additionally, the BEWU questioned procedural changes at BPL following a police investigation of a fivemonth long, $2m fraud scheme at the company. “The union would like to advise the chairman to concentrate and put more efforts into building up the current low morale of the employees rather than destroying their characters,” the statement said. “We demand that the chairman stop such malicious actions forthwith. Instead of accusing our disconnectors of taking bribes and being dishonest, they should be complimented by the
Union speaks out following Chairwoman’s remarks executive chairman for carrying out their duties in the absence of the fundamental tools needed to perform an effective disconnection.” BEWU further claimed that there are no disconnection locks available to do a “proper disconnection” because BPL executive management discontinued the ordering of locks without arranging a replacement. BEWU suggested the current practice of switches being pulled down and a sticker being left on site to acknowledge disconnection leaves the process open for customers to restore their own power by pulling up the switch “without having to bribe anyone to restore their power.” BEWU also noted the “unproductive” practice of having up to four disconnectors carpool for daily assignments due to a lack of vehicles. In September, Ms Osborne told The Tribune nearly half of BPL’s disconnected customers are reconnected illegally by paying “bribes” to employees. At the time, Ms Osborne said she could not quantify the financial loss to BPL from the illegal hook ups, but said it is “significant.” “Forty per cent of disconnected customers at BPL are reconnected unauthorised (by) paying off
people,” she told The Tribune last month. “We are planning for this year, a software system called Advanced Metering Infrastructure, the AMI Project. “What that will do is be a critical tool in terms of cracking down on the ability to have unauthorised reconnections based on bribes for reconnections of that sort.” The union also said it has yet to receive a copy of the Ernst and Young audit report that was used as a basis to dismiss three of its members in recent months.
Employees The union claimed BPL violated the rights of employees and violated its industrial agreement with BEWU by dismissing the three employees “without presenting any evidence or giving them a chance to defend themselves.” BEWU said its members were suspended weeks before any senior staff were placed on leave. “BPL allowed those same senior staff to assist the auditors with the investigation before they decided to suspend them,” the union claimed. “Both junior and senior staff should have been sent home at the same time
BPL Chairwoman Darnell Osborne had said 40 per cent of disconnected customers were being reconnected illegally by paying ‘bribes’ to employees. in order for the audit investigation to appear to be fair. “The union feels that it was unfair because those same senior staff had enough time to vindicate themselves by removing and tampering with the evidence.” Furthermore, the union said it was pleased to know that BPL allowed its lawyers to interview one recently suspended employee, who has since been cleared and allowed to return to work. The union has asked BPL to extend the same “courtesy and opportunity” to its three terminated members. BEWU suggested that
such a move would demonstrate “consistency and fairness in the workplace.” Another point of contention highlighted by the union was the trend of sending employees away on company business without their mandated daily allowances. The union alleged employees are having to pay out of their own pockets to maintain themselves while away on company business, and upon their return, wait weeks to be reimbursed. Lastly, BEWU requested a copy of the management services agreement (MSA) Power Secure presented
to BPL if the company intends to follow the same plan. However, if the company aims to change course, BEWU said it would like a copy of any new business plan being used by BPL. The Tribune contacted Ms Osborne for comment yesterday but she declined to speak on the issues raised. Last month, PowerSecure and BPL agreed to “amicably” end their business relationship. PowerSecure had held a five-year operating agreement, which it signed in early 2016.
PAGE 6, Friday, October 6, 2017
TURNQUEST: REAL DEFICIT $695M FROM PAGE ONE
“I was wrong. I was wrong, Mr Speaker, in the sense that I actually underestimated the extent of the debt. “Mr Speaker, the problem is not all the bills had been presented. Yes, bills (are) still coming and I’m not talking $2. I wouldn’t mind if it was $2. I talkin’ big bills. “The member for Garden Hills (Brensil Rolle) trying to throw something on me now and I keep throwing it back because I don’t want to pay it.” He continued: “The actual deficit projected as of yesterday (Wednesday), Mr Speaker, is not $500m as I projected. I am afraid to say this number, but I committed to the Bahamian people and all those who rely on the numbers that I give to be as truthful as I possibly can. It’s only in being truthful that you can fix the problems that you have. “But as of yesterday, the budgeted or the projected deficit for 2016-2017 is $695m. That was the deficit as of yesterday. “That’s $595m more than the previous PLP government projected in 2016-2017 budget, absolutely incredible. “I want to apologise to them and to the Bahamian people for under estimating the depth of their fiscal incompetence.” To give an idea of the “unpaid expenditure” run up by the former government, which had to be paid by the Minnis administration, Mr
“But as of yesterday, the budgeted or the projected deficit for 2016-2017 is $695m. That was the deficit as of yesterday. That’s $595m more than the previous PLP government projected in 2016-2017 budget, absolutely incredible.” Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest Turnquest outlined several bills that were handled in June totalling $381m. These included: $6.727m for office rent accommodations; $60m for medical insurance premiums; $14m for the acquisition of the Doppler radar; $2m for a contribution to international games and $16.338m for National Health Insurance/Public Hospitals Authority. He also revealed expenditure of $1.445m for the balance of the radar payment; $100m for a First Caribbean International Bank loan; $3m for pensions; $2.8m for election expenses; $8m for Bahamas marine arbitration and Ministry of Tourism expenses totalling $20m. Other June expenditures were: National Insurance, $2.2m; Water
and Sewerage, $29.7m; salary arrears for the Ministry of Education, University of the West Indies and University of the Bahamas, $4m; food assistance programme, $4.9m; IAAF World Relays and international sports, $11.2m; Meteorology Office radar, $7.1m; National Health Insurance salaries $53.45m; salary increase for doctors $5.1m; beaches and parks $11.34m; arrears owed to cruise ships $10m; money paid to a famous golfer was $1m and Urban Renewal received $3m. Mr Turnquest said in addition to this, there were also 1,700 job programme workers who needed to be paid. They are collectively owed $9m. “Mr Speaker there are numbers that I have not spoken about,” he said.
“These are just some of the unpaid expenditures run up by their PLP government paid by us, which were not reflected in the Central Bank report and they have the nerve to ask why we could not grant free tuition at the University of the Bahamas. “They have the nerve to ask why we’re not able in this term and in this fiscal year to remove VAT on the items that we promised. “They should be ashamed of themselves. “They ran us into a proverbial financial ditch and then they want to blame us for taking a little bit longer than we anticipated to get ourselves out if it. “Talk about hypocrisy,” Mr Turnquest said. The House of Assembly resumes on Wednesday.
FNM ‘HYPOCRISY’ OVER SPY BILL FROM PAGE ONE
what the PLP’s version sought to avoid: it puts power in the hands of politicians that affects the privacy of Bahamians. Mr Davis said: “The hypocrisy is that the Bill (we tabled) was in response to commentary made by the Privy Council the Bill that we had presented was in response to observations made by the highest court of the land. This Bill that was laid does not respond to that. The Bill (we tabled) was introduced because of observations and recommendations made by the Privy Council and the Bill that was laid by us was consonant with those recommendations. “The
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Bill that I’ve had a cursory look at since being laid does not appear on the face of it to be responding to the observations and recommendations made by the Privy Council. I take the liberty to manipulate some words my former parliamentary colleague Melanie Griffin liked to use.
Victimisation “They are based in scripture and says, ‘A double mind is unstable in all his ways.’ This very aptly describes the new leadership of the FNM. They have not changed. Hypocrisy is the order of the day, and I’ll add another word, victimisation.” The opposition has not specified what provisions in the new Bill gives greater power to politicians than it deems fit, but one of the more substantive adjustments to an otherwise identical Bill to the one the former administration tabled is the addition of a new section. Part VI of the new bill, titled listening devices, was imported
from the Listening Devices Act, the law that would be repealed if the Interception of Communication Bill passes through Parliament. That sections gives the minister responsible for national security the power to authorise anyone to use a listening device for a period not exceeding 30 days. It also allows the commissioner of police, after consultation with the attorney general, to authorise police to use a listening device for a period not exceeding 14 days. Mr Davis said yesterday: “We proposed for the Interception of Communication Bill to entrust the power to approve selective monitoring to the judiciary, a separate and equal part of government. This was part of the recommendation coming from the Privy Council and if you were to benchmark any such Bill you’d recognise that the ultimate decision to do so rests in the judiciary. We are probably the only country where, if the Bill passes as it is, that would have that distinction. It is
confounding that the Bill now proposes that this power should continue to reside with politicians. This cannot be right and it is certainly not progressive or forward looking. In its current form, it must be rejected and I suspect it will be rejected by right thinking, freedom loving Bahamians as a rank, arrogant invasion of privacy and that’s why it was so ironic that the very person who called for a march against the Bill because he was concerned about this power being vested with politicians presents and lays a Bill that still contains the same provisions.”
Motives Mr Johnson rose on a point of order on the basis that Mr Davis imputed improper motives to him, but Deputy Speaker Don Saunders did not accept his point. Mr Davis further said: “In its current form, the Bill violates the civil liberties and privacy by opening the door to political abuse and persecution.
I dare say it takes away rights from Bahamians when we in this place should be about deepening and expanding democracy through the expansion of civil liberties and rights of Bahamians. I’m encouraged that I’m now being told that this Bill is not cast in stone because the government may listen to recommendations to amend the same. “It is universally accepted that where the right to invade one’s privacy (exists), that right to do so ought to be determined by persons other than politicians. That is the major concern that we have with respect to the Bill right now because we were attempting to move it out of the hand of politicians but others cried for a march against the ‘spy Bill’ and it was not proceeded with and now we have a new one and we’ll see how that expands civil liberties as opposed to restricting it.” The Minnis administration has started consultation on the Bill and has said it is open to revisions after these discussions.
THE TRIBUNE
TEXT FOR THE CURE: BTC AND CANCER SOCIETY TEAM UP FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
THE month of October has been designated to enhance the awareness of breast cancer. For several years, BTC has joined with various groups to promote prevention methods and share the stories of those that have been touched by cancer over the years. BTC has teamed up with the Cancer Society for a “Think Pink Text for the Cure” campaign. The campaign which began October 5, gives the general public an opportunity to make a donation towards the fight against breast cancer. Tammy Sands, from the Cancer Society said: “We thought this would be a good initiative to solicit the support of the Bahamian public and the public at large to make a donation to help us here at the Cancer Society. The Cancer Society is run from the support of the general public. We offer a special Cancer Caring Centre which provides free accommodations for Bahamians travelling from the Family Islands. They stay with us while they are undergoing treatment free of charge. “We also have 12 Family Island branches throughout the archipelago of the Bahamas. “We provide about 27 free clinics across the Family Islands providing pap smears for ladies and PSA testing for men.”
Campaign BTC Manager for Public Relations Indira Collie said: “BTC has been deeply involved with cancer awareness for years now. About a decade ago, we launched a special campaign called ‘I connect with the fight against breast cancer,’ where we partnered with the Sister/Sister Breast Cancer Support Group to raise the level of awareness in the country. “Since then, annually, the company participates in a number of cause-related initiatives. We have provided free mammograms for our customers and just a few weeks ago, we came on board again as the platinum sponsor for the Long Island Cancer Society Ball. “We’re encouraging everyone to get involved. We all have been touched by the effects of cancer in one way or another. Just by sending a text message from your mobile phone, you can help to assist someone that is in need.” The text for the cure campaign runs until October 31. To participate, customers should send text the word “PINK” to the number 5115. With each text, customers will donate $1, and you can donate as many times as you like. All proceeds will go to the Cancer Society.
THE TRIBUNE
AG’S OFFICE AGREES TO PROPOSAL BY FREDDIE RAMSEY’S ATTORNEYS By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net
THE OFFICE of the Attorney General yesterday agreed to a proposal by attorneys for Freddie Solomon Ramsey to have their client satisfy his $200,000 plus repayment of ill-gotten gains order to the Bahamas Electricity Corporation via the transfer of land to the government of the Bahamas. Wayne Munroe, QC, before Justice Bernard Turner, reiterated his previous submissions before the court that a property conveyance can satisfy the disgorgement order, charging that the land in question has a higher value than the $221,457.81 Ramsey had received from French company Alstom SA. Director of Public Prosecutions Garvin Gaskin, though noting some of the technicalities involved in the conveyance process, such as who or what entity would be the official receiver of the real property in line with Justice Turner’s ruling, said the Crown had no objection to the proposal.
Process After noting the submissions of both parties, and factoring in the amount of time needed to conduct the conveyance process, Justice Turner adjourned the matter to December 15, when the process is expected to be completed. If it is not, Mr Munroe said, then that hearing will serve as an update on how far along the conveyance process is. “What is left to be done now is the government will wish to have its own appraisal to be satisfied as to the value and then we have to go through the formalities of checking the title to make sure the government is getting land that has good title,” Mr Munroe told reporters after the hearing. “Hopefully by that time (in December) the conveyance will be complete and that will be the end of the matter or it will be reported at what stage the conveyancing process is,” he added. “Sometimes it can take a while.”
FREDDIE Ramsey at a previous court appearance. In July 2016, Justice Turner imposed a $14,000 fine on Ramsey as opposed to a prison sentence in connection with evidence alleging that Alstom SA paid more than $300,000 to a BEC board member to influence the awarding of the New Providence Phase Two and Three contracts between 1999 and 2003. Justice Turner said Ramsey had six months to pay off the fine or face six months in prison. In addition to the fine, the judge said he saw no reason why he should not order the entire $221,457.81 Ramsey allegedly received from Alstom as a result of the scandal be repaid, which he said should be paid to BEC or any successor of BEC within nine months. Failure to pay off the amount within that time, Justice Turner said, would result in that sum being applied to Ramsey’s real property tax and/or him facing a separate term of six months’ imprisonment. Justice Turner also said that sum should be paid to the country’s consolidated fund should BEC no longer be considered a public body. Before that, Ramsey was acquitted of two counts of conspiracy to commit bribery and two counts of bribery concerning the Phase Two
MENTAL HEALTH DAY TO BE OBSERVED ON GB THE 25th anniversary of World Mental Health Day will be observed on October 10 and this year’s focus is on “Mental Health in the Workplace.” The Grand Bahama Health Services mental health team held a press conference on Thursday to announce activities planned in observance of World Mental Health Day to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world. There will be an official opening of the Mental Health Forum at 10am on Tuesday, October 10, at the Foster B Pestaina Auditorium at the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King. The mental health team consists of Dr Daphne Adderley Sands, acting consultant psychiatrist at Rand Memorial Hospital, clinical psychologist Dr Michelle Lundy, Dr Leroy Laing, and Dr Reddey, and Clarence Hield of Hospital’s Social Services Department.
Impact Dr Sands noted that untreated mental disorders in employees can have a negative impact on families, work, and the community. She said that mental issues can lead to poor productivity at work, reduced rate of labour participation, poor concentration, increase workplace accidents, higher turnover of staff, and increased welfare payments. Dr Sands reported that one in four adults will experience mental health difficulties. She noted that prejudice and discrimination are significant barriers that deprive people with mental health issues of their dignity. “To make dignity in mental health a reality requires every member of society to work together,” she said. Because adults spend most of their time at work, Dr Sands stated that a person’s experience in the workplace is one of the factors determining their overall well-being. “The vision is to start the discussion so we can define best practice in promoting mental health in the workplace and create a broad coalition to promote best practice, decrease negative attitudes and discrimination and empower individuals to promote mental health and dignity for all. “I want to stress the importance of being our brother’s keeper and looking out for each other,” she said. Dr Lundy said that two major activities will be held during the month of October. She said the forum will address stress and depression in the workplace. Other topics of discussion including work-life balance, and stigma and discrimination associated with mental health. There will be entertainment and performance by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band. On Saturday, October 28, a walkathon will be held, beginning at 8am starting at Rand Memorial Hospital to the Ranfurly Circle, and back to the hospital for a souse out. “I am encouraging all to participate because there is no health without mental health,” she said.
contract. However, he was convicted of two counts of conspiracy to commit bribery and 12 counts of bribery concerning the Phase Three contract.
Charges The 18 charges against Ramsey—four of conspiracy to commit bribery and 14 of bribery—concerned the New Providence Expansion Phase Two and Three contracts. It is alleged that Ramsey, being concerned with others, conspired to “solicit, or accept any advantages as an inducement to, or reward for, or used influence in procuring” for ABB Generacion and Alstom SA in the New Providence Expansion Phase Two contract with BEC between 1999 and 2003. Ramsey is a former Free National Movement parliamentary candidate for Fox Hill. He is also a former insurance executive. He was 78 when he was arraigned in 2015.
Friday, October 6, 2017, PAGE 7
PAGE 8, Friday, October 6, 2017
THE TRIBUNE
FNM has set the bar high for ‘spin doctoring’ T
HIS past week saw Minister for Transport and Local Government Frankie Campbell quash all allegations that he has dual citizenship during an address in the House of Assembly. Mr. Campbell also reiterated that he has never pledged allegiance to any country but the Bahamas, nor does he have a passport, or any other documents from another country. Mr. Campbell also gave permission, while also challenging any foreign embassy in the Bahamas to provide proof that he ever held dual citizenship. 2 FOR 1 SPECIAL
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ampbell had to go to great lengths to defend his Bahamian nationality, after social media was abuzz regarding remarks he made about his citizenship, after he made comments about having two passports while appearing on the Darold Miller Live show. The Bahamas Constitution, clearly states that: A person is not qualified to be elected to the House of Assembly if they are a citizen of another country, having become that citizen voluntarily or if, by virtue of his own act, under
any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state. When questioned constitutionally Minister Campbell made these remarks, “At no time in my 50 years of existence did I, Frankie Campbell, ever pledge allegiance to any other country than the Bahamas, save and except for what we did here in the Bahamas between 1967 when I would’ve been involved and 1973 when we raised the flag. “ I publicly give permission and authorisation to any of our foreign embassies here in the Bahamas to supply whoever requests any evidence or proof that I ever held any other travel document or citizenship other than that of my beloved Bahamas.” Minister Campbell was out of the country on government business with the IDB when the potential scandal broke. “While there to my surprise I received information that I had fled the country,
I had gone down south, all emanating from comments that I would’ve made from May of this year shortly after the general election on the Darold Miller show,” he said.
“Even if the PM (and indirectly the FNM) issued the statement as damage control, it was far more creative spin and more timely than any of the old, tired, retread excuses of the past PLP administration.” “I find it amazing that in my 50 years of existence I’ve never had to defend my attachment to my heritage. Science has advanced to the extent where parents are able to choose the colour of the eyes of their children, choose the sex of their children and other physical attributes but to
SOUTHERN Shores MP Frankie Campbell holds up his Diplomatic and Bahamian passports in the House of Assembly. Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff my knowledge there has been no science that helps to decide for a child who his or her parents will be and to that extent I give thanks to Almighty God for who my parents are.” Looks and sounds like accountability and transparency in action. Clarification of a dicey comment, so there would be no confusion nationally, moving forward. Again, commendable actions by Mr. Campbell in my opinion. A good example for his cabinet colleagues, both old and young to follow. CONSPIRACY THEORISTS
N
ow I know some of you conspiracy theorists (aka bitter, disgruntled, salty PLPs) tongues are still wagging. I’ve heard the rumblings and the noise in the market. Yes, Mr. Campbell admitted to travelling, and finding out about the matter, after
he arrived abroad. He also satisfactorily explained the entire situation, in my opinion. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis told The Tribune, that the Southern Shores MP was referring to his Bahamian passport and his diplomatic passport, when he referred to the documents. Obviously attacking the PM’s statement and position on the matter was the last shot Opposition spindoctors had. However, all the antagonists in this ordeal have failed to realise one thing: Even if the PM (and indirectly the FNM) issued the statement as damage control, it was far more creative spin and more timely than any of the old, tired, retread excuses of the past PLP administration. It may be horse manure, but it’s pedigree horse manure. So applaud the sometimes dim-witted FNM PR team on this one, this has been some of their best work to date.
Taking all things in to consideration, Mr. Campbell’s statements, the PM’s comments and the public outcry. After further review, I genuinely think Mr. Campbell deserves the benefit of the doubt. All things considered he can’t be, like the old folks say, “dat bold and brazen” all at once. Now Mister Prime Minister, you and the FNM have set the bar high for ‘spin doctoring’ with this creative take, one way or another. I hope you have an equally entertaining spin on the Spy Bill, the NIA, the FOIA, campaign finance reform, crime, unemployment, BPL, Baha Mar, Acklins, Freeport and Ragged Island. Just to name a few of the promises your government has failed to deliver on so far. Please get creative with the ‘spin’ on those matters. Honestly, the voting populace is tired of seeing former MP’s hauled before the courts when your administration fails to deliver yet again.
MALL AT MARATHON CELEBRATES 28TH ANNIVERSARY
THE Mall at Marathon celebrated its 28th anniversary in grand style with a mallwide sidewalk sale that culminated on Saturday. There was a live band, karaoke entertainment, free balloons and face-painting. Pictured at the annual cake-cutting ceremony are representatives from several of the mall’s stores - some of the stores have
been in the mall since it opened in 1989. From left: William Higgs of Sandy’s; Christopher Mortimer of Galleria Cinemas; Jordanae Dorsette of The Shoe Village; Carla Moss-Fitzgerald, Mall at Marathon marketing coordinator; Irvin Wilson of The Shoe Medic; Khadijah Bain of Security Depot and Phylicia Brennen of Accessory Haven I & II.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, October 6, 2017, PAGE 9
NATIONAL HEROES DAY PLANS ANNOUNCED By SYDNEI L ISAACS Bahamas Information Services
ANNOUNCING plans for National Heroes Day, members of the Old Fox Hill Scholars Association at the Fox Hill Community Centre, Wednesday afternoon, relayed that the upcoming celebration will commence on Monday at 11am at St Paul’s Baptist Church. There will be a church service to commemorate selected “quiet heroes” from Fox Hill who contributed greatly to different aspects of society.
Honoured
SHONEL FERGUSON, MP for Fox Hill (centre), leads the discussion on plans for this year’s October 9th ‘National Heroes Day.’ (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Living heroes who will be honoured at the service are Rev Dr Julia Bain, Eugenia Thurston, Derrel Moss, Garth and Mary Ferguson, Sylvia Rolle, Agnes Cash- Greene, Florinda Francis, and Harry Knowles. The guest speaker at the service will be Father Hugh Bartlett. This service will be followed by a trek to St Anne’s Anglican Church Cemetery to lay a wreath to honour fallen heroes, Ena Morrison-Bailey, former teacher at Sandilands Primary School, and her husband Nathaniel Bailey.
There will be refreshments after the “march” as the general public is invited to attend and celebrate. Present at the press conference were, treasurer of the Old Fox Hill Scholars Association, Barbara Higgs; member of Parliament for Fox Hill and member of the Old Fox Hill Scholars Association, Shonel Ferguson; president of the Old Fox Hill Scholars Association and retired nurse at the Princess Margaret Hospital, Sandra Ferguson-Rolle; and member of the Old Fox Hill Scholars Association and one of the only living students of the former Sandilands All Age School, Elizabeth Butler. Ms Ferguson highlighted the many special aspects of Fox Hill’s rich heritage and massive contribution both nationally and internationally. “Communities are able to survive through so many hard-working and decent people,” she said. “These are the community builders and we (Fox Hillians) know how to say, thank you.” She added that Fox Hill has been central in national recognition holidays like Emancipation Day, Fox Hill Day and, now, National Heroes Day; and that, like communities such as Gambier and Adelaide, many residents of Fox Hill can directly trace their ancestry back to slavery.
Funeral Service JOAN MAYSON
AN UNITED NATIONS peacekeeper from Brazil holds his nation’s flag during an end of operations ceremony for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Thursday. The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Haiti is coming to an official end on Oct. 15. Immediately afterward, the U.N. will start a new mission made up of international civilian police officers and civilians. (AP)
UN ENDING 13-YEAR MILITARY PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN HAITI By EVENS SANON, Associated Press PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — A U.N. peacekeeping mission in Haiti that has helped maintain order through 13 years of political turmoil and catastrophe is coming to an end as the last of the blue-helmeted soldiers from around the world leave despite concerns that the police and justice system are still not adequate to ensure security in the country. The U.N. lowered its flag at its headquarters in Portau-Prince during a ceremony Thursday that was attended by President Jovenel Moise, who thanked the organization for helping to provide stability. After a gradual winding down, there are now about 100 international soldiers in the country and they will leave within days. The mission will officially end on Oct. 15.
Civilians Immediately afterward, the U.N. will start a new mission made up of about 1,300 international civilian police officers, along with 350 civilians who will help the country reform a deeply troubled justice system. Various agencies and programs of the international body, such as the Food and Agricultural Organization, will also still be working in the country. “It will be a much smaller peacekeeping mission,” said Sandra Honore, a diplomat from Trinidad and Tobago who has served since July 2013 as the head of the U.N. mission in Haiti known as MINUSTAH, its French acronym. “The United Nations is not leaving.” MINUSTAH began operations in Haiti in 2004, when a violent rebellion swept the country and forced thenPresident Jean-Bertrand Aristide out of power and into exile. Its goals included restoring security and rebuilding the shattered political institutions. In April, the Security Council deemed the country sufficiently stable and voted to wind down the international military presence, which then consisted of about 4,700 troops. Many Haitians have viewed the multinational peacekeepers as an affront to national sovereignty. U.N. troops are believed to have inadvertently introduced the deadly cholera bacteria to the country and have also
SANDRA HONORE, a diplomat from Trinidad and Tobago who has served since July 2013 as the head of the U.N. mission in Haiti known as MINUSTAH, listens to a question during an interview in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Wednesday. (AP) been accused of causing civilian casualties in fierce battles with gangs in Port-au-Prince and of sexually abusing minors. But the mission, with additional help from the U.S. and other nations, is also credited with stabilising the country, particularly after the January 2010 earthquake, and building up the national police force. “The job may not be complete but they have essentially done much of what they were originally designed to do in terms of preventing any kind of armed takeover of the state, in terms of increasing the safety of civilians,” said Mark Schneider, a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. “It takes work to maintain that and Haiti needs to maintain that.” MINUSTAH, Schneider said, has been key in helping Haiti develop a credible civilian national police from “almost zero” to its current level of about 15,000 officers, which most experts believe is still too small for a country of nearly 11 million. The police force was intended to replace the army, which was disbanded by Aristide in 1995 because of its repeated role in a series of coups and that the Haitian government is now seeking to reconstitute over international objections. “Haiti needs an atmosphere of peace so we can take responsibility for ourselves,” said Haitian Sen. Jacques Suaveur Jean. “We don’t need foreign soldiers.” The new U.N. mission will consist of seven police units that can respond to major incidents, in addition to officers deployed throughout the
country to advise and assist their Haitian counterparts. Civilians will also be working with the government to improve the country’s justice system, which the State Department said in this year’s annual human rights report has serious flaws, including severe prison overcrowding, prolonged pretrial detention and an inefficient judiciary.
Training Honore, in an interview ahead of Thursday’s ceremony, cited the training and hiring of police officers as one of the U.N. successes. MINUSTAH had already been scaling back before the Security Council voted to end the mission. In the aftermath of the earthquake, which killed 96 U.N. personnel, including former head of mission Hedi Annabi, the number of troops reached more than 10,000. But when Honore arrived there were about 6,200 soldiers from around 20 countries, a figure that dropped again by nearly a third within two years. The cholera outbreak, which started in October 2010 after peacekeepers from Nepal contaminated the country’s largest river with waste from their base, killed an estimated 9,500 people and irrevocably damaged the reputation of the organisation in Haiti. Many critics felt the U.N. did not adequately respond to the outbreak, something the organization sought to later remedy. “It was a fundamental error because it undermined the image not just of MINUSTAH, but of the international community,” Schneider said.
of Cable Beach, will be held on Saturday, 7th October, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church Cathedral, George Street. Officiating will be Very Rev. Patrick L. Adderley, assisted by other ministers of the clergy. Interment will follow in Lakeview Memorial Gardens, John F. Kennedy Drive. Joan is survived by her children: Vanessa Carlino, Johanna Mayson, Brent Mayson, Deborah Hanna Armogan and her grandchildren: Alexander Carlino, Cassandra Carlino, Michael Armogan, her sister Dr. Corolyn Hanna and also by Richard Mayson and Jacques Carlino and countless other family members and friends. Pre-deceased by her loving sisters Merle Brozozog, Olive Wells, Maisie Wilkinson, Violet Knowles and Mildred Diah, also survived by: Sigmund Brozozog, Stefan Brozozog, Blasco Brozozog, Reverend Spencer Brozozog, Kasermer Brozozog, Dr. Eyrena Brozozog-Burgoine, Dr. Wanda Brozozog-Joyce, Karen Brozozog Joyce, Sharon ‘Dolly’ Sturman, Christopher Knowles, Peter Knowles, Bryan Knowles, Donny Knowles, Shayne Knowles, Patrick Knowles, Elizabeth Bridges, Saran Knowles, Kym Villachica, Ruth Fawkes, Rosemund Byles, John Wilkinson, Van Diah, Zoe Sears, Bradley and Antonio Diah, Willy Weeks, Charles and Audrey Mayson, Zoe Spearpoint, Joanna Cobb, Richard Mayson, Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Mayson, Nicolina Carlino, and all of their extended families, along with Essie Kerr, Dr. Magnus Ekedede and caregivers Susana Dayou, Trishana ‘Toya’ Dyer and Lesa Bennette, as well as Members of Christ Church Cathedral and the Anglican Church Women, and numerous of other family and friends. Friends may pay their last respects at Bethel Brothers Morticians #44 Nassau Street on Friday from 10:00 am to 6 :00 pm. there will be no viewing at the church.
CARLIN WILFRED CLEARE, 70 of Mount Pleasant Village, formerly of Harbour Island, will be held on Saturday, 7th October, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Golden Gates Outreach Ministries, Carmichael Road. Officiating will be Bishop Ros Davis, assisted by other ministers of the clergy. Cremation will follow. Cherished memories will linger in the hearts of his daughter: Castassja Cleare: step daughters: Miriam Hopkins and Makheba Hopkins-Rolle; step sons: Ricardo and Nathanial Hopkins; sisters: Diana Davis, Lue Ellen Strachan, Mary Lynes, Margaret and Sharon Duncombe; brothers: Richard and Michael Duncombe; sisters-in-law: Muriel Kemp, Jill, Novellete and Barbara Duncombe; grandchildren: Tahnaj, Rickea, Rondo, Valkeria, Arsenio, Dominic, Denton, Vanessa, Indira, Paula, Pamela, Petra and Nadia; aunts: Irene Davis, Henrietta Butler, Ethel Mae Gibson, Christine Rolle, Roberta Roberts and Dorothy Johnson; uncles; Vincent Cleare, William Roberts, Ulysless and Joseph Roberts andH.L. Rolle; nieces: Merileah, Tremmie, Gracelyn, Lucy, Aretha, Nadine, Dessiree, Nicola, Belinda, Bettina, Cicely, Sakura, Michelle, Aladia, Noleah, Robyn, Catura, Monalisa, Ashley, Deborah and Krystal; nephews: Taurus, Tharell, Paul Jr., Dino, Hearn, Don and Trevor; other relatives and friends including Ralph, Sean, Frank, Peter, Sydney, Moses and Joshua Capron, P.M.H Staff, Harbour Island Family, Gambier Community, Mount Pleasent Village Family, Texico Staff, Bailco Staff, Royal Bahamas Police Force, Chevron Staff, Rhodas Place, Rubis Staff and wife: Stacy Cleare and the Adderley family. Friends may pay their last respects at Bethel Brothers Morticians #44 Nassau Street on Friday from 10am to 6pm and at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until service time.
PAGE 10, Friday, October 6, 2017
US CUSTOMS VOWS TO BLOCK IMPORTS MADE BY NORTH KOREA WORKERS By MARTHA MENDOZA, AP National Writer U.S. Customs and Border Protection says it is ready to block U.S. imports of seafood — as well as any other goods — produced by North Korean labourers who work in China. An Associated Press investigation tracked salmon, squid and cod processed by North Korean labourers working abroad to American stores, including Walmart and ALDI. The North Korean workers found in Chinese factories aren’t allowed to leave, and receive only a fraction of their pay — most goes straight to the North Korean state. This means that American consumers buying seafood labeled “Caught in the USA, Processed in China” may inadvertently be subsidising the government of Kim Jong Un as it builds nuclear weapons, and also supporting forced labour.
Investigate U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a statement Thursday it is reviewing the allegations and if warranted, would “pursue all enforcement actions and prohibit goods from importation as appropriate.” The companies that responded also vowed to investigate ties with suppliers. GOP Congressman Chris Smith from New Jersey, who has repeatedly called for tougher enforcement, said the Labor Department has already identified trafficking in 12 sectors of goods exported by China. “CBP should be stopping every shipment from those sectors_and now trafficking-tainted salmon too,” he said. A White House National Security Council spokesman said Thursday the North Korean government’s scheme to outsource its labor underscores why the United States has pushed for restrictions on North Korean foreign workers. The spokesman said all countries should, at a minimum, ban companies from bringing in North Korean crews, as pledged in recent United Nations sanctions. China is among the countries that have promised to comply, already banning imports of North Korean seafood, and saying no more North Korean workers will be allowed starting next year.
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LAS VEGAS GUNMAN MAY HAVE SCOPED OUT OTHER MUSIC FESTIVALS By MICHAEL BALSAMO AND BRIAN MELLEY, Associated Press
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Investigators are looking into whether gunman Stephen Paddock scoped out bigger music festivals in Las Vegas and Chicago — and perhaps Boston’s Fenway Park — before setting up his perch in a casino hotel and raining deadly fire on country music fans. Paddock booked rooms overlooking the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago in August and the Life Is Beautiful show near the Vegas Strip in late September, according to authorities reconstructing his movements before he undertook the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. It was not clear if he contemplated massacres at those sites. Investigators looking into Paddock also came across mention of Fenway Park, Boston police Lt. Detective Mike McCarthy said, though he provided no further details. The details came to light as investigators struggled to figure out why the high-stakes gambler opened fire on a crowd of 22,000 Sunday night from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel casino in Las Vegas. He killed 58 people and injured nearly 500 before taking his own life. A federal official said authorities are looking into the possibility Paddock planned additional attacks, including a car bombing. The official wasn’t authorised to discuss the matter publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Authorities previously disclosed Paddock had 1,600 rounds of ammunition in his car, along with fertiliser that can be used to make explosives and 50 pounds of Tannerite, a substance used in explosive rifle targets. Paddock had an arsenal of 23 weapons in his hotel room. A dozen of them included “bump stocks,” attachments that can effectively convert semi-automatic rifles into fully automated weapons.
ABOVE: SHERRI CAMPERCHIOLI, left, and Jordan Cassel help set up some of the crosses that arrived in Las Vegas yesterday to honour the victims of the mass shooting. (AP) RIGHT: Las Vegas gunman Stephen Paddock. (Courtesy of Eric Paddock via AP) In a rare concession on gun control, the National Rifle Association announced its support Thursday for regulating the devices. Paddock’s girlfriend, Marilou Danley, told FBI agents Wednesday she had not noticed any changes in his mental state or indications he could become violent, the federal official said. Paddock sent Danley on a trip to her native Philippines before the attack, and she was unaware of his plans and devastated when she learned of the carnage while overseas, she said in a statement.
A MAN pauses at a memorial for the victims of a mass shooting in Las Vegas. (AP)
Investigators combing through his background for clues remain stumped as to his motive. The profile developed so far is of a “disturbed and dangerous” man who acquired an arsenal over decades, Sheriff Joseph Lombardo said. But investigators have been frustrated to find that he lived a “secret life,” Lombardo said, “much of which will never be fully understood.” A former executive casino host at the Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa in Reno said Paddock had a “god complex” and expected quick service without regard to how busy the staff was at the time. “He liked everybody to think that he was the guy,” John Weinreich said. “He didn’t boast about anything he had or anything. It was just his demeanor. It was like, ‘I’m here. Don’t cross me. Don’t look at me too long.’ “ The weekend before the massacre, he rented a room through Airbnb at the 21-story Ogden condominiums in downtown Las Vegas and stayed there during a music festival below that included Chance the Rapper, Muse, Lorde and Blink-182. “Reasons that ran through Paddock’s mind is unknown, but it was directly at the same time as Life Is Beautiful,” the sheriff said. Police were reviewing video shot at the high-rise to check Paddock’s movements. His renting the condo was curious because, as a high-roller, he could have easily gotten a free room at one of the casino hotels on the Vegas Strip. In early August, Paddock booked a room at Chicago’s 21-story
Blackstone Hotel that overlooked the park where the Lollapalooza alternative music festival was being held, though there’s no evidence he actually stayed there, a law enforcement official said Thursday. The official was not authorised to discuss the case publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity after being briefed on the investigation. The hotel confirmed a Stephen Paddock made a reservation but said he never checked in. Lollapalooza draws hundreds of thousands of music fans every year to Grant Park. Although Paddock killed himself as a SWAT team closed in, the sheriff said it appeared he had planned to survive and had an escape plan. Lombardo would not elaborate on the plan. The coroner’s office in Las Vegas would not release details of its autopsy on Paddock. Some behavioral experts have wondered whether he suffered from some kind of brain abnormality or had a terminal illness that prompted him to lash out.
SUDDENLY, WHITE HOUSE AND NRA OPEN TO (A LITTLE) GUN CONTROL By ERICA WERNER, AP Congressional Correspondent
WASHINGTON (AP) — The National Rifle Association joined the Trump administration and top congressional Republicans Thursday in a swift and surprising embrace of a restriction on Americans’ guns, though a narrow one: to regulate the “bump stock” devices the Las Vegas shooter apparently used to horrifically lethal effect. The devices, originally intended to help people with disabilities, fit over the stock and grip of a semi-automatic rifle and allow the weapon to fire continuously, some 400 to 800 rounds in a single minute. Bump stocks were found among the gunman’s weapons and explain why victims in Las Vegas heard what sounded like automaticweapons fire as the shooter rained bullets from a casino high-rise, slaughtering 58 people in a concert below and wounding hundreds more. Thursday’s sudden endorsements of controls came almost simultaneously from the NRA and the White House. The NRA, which famously opposes virtually any hint of new restrictions, said in a statement: “The National Rifle Association is calling on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) to immediately review whether these devices comply with federal law. The NRA believes that devices designed to allow semi-automatic rifles to function like fully automatic rifles should be subject to additional regulations.”
Moments after, at the White House, press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders praised the announcement. “We welcome that and a conversation on that,” Sanders said. “It’s something we’re very open to.” House Speaker Paul Ryan added his support, as have other top Republicans. “Obviously we need to look at how we can tighten up the compliance with this law so that fully automatic weapons are banned,” the Wisconsin Republican told reporters at an event in Chestertown, Maryland.
Concession It was a rare concession for all concerned. The nation’s largest gun lobby and most Republicans have stood firmly in recent years against stricter gun regulations, even as one mass shooting after another horrified the nation. They blocked background check legislation after the shooting deaths of elementary school children in Connecticut in 2012, and took no action despite intense pressure from Democrats, including a House floor sit-in, after last year’s bloodbath at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Even gunfire that left House Majority Whip Steve Scalise near death at a baseball practice earlier this year didn’t change the equation. But this time, the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history, combined with the opportunity to back a limited change that could potentially be accomplished administratively, spurred a shift.
PAGE 12, Friday, October 6, 2017
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CELEBRITY ARTIST’S PORTRAIT IS A HIT WITH NICKI MINAJ CELEBRITY artist and The Tribune’s cartoonist Jamaal Rolle (pictured) has an army of fans and how he can add Nicki Minaj to their ranks. Jamaal recently painted Minaj’s portrait using Mac make-up and after seeing it on his Instagram page the star was straight on the page to applaud his work. “Wow! Talent to the tenth power,” was Minaj’s comment. Jamaal explained: “Since Nicki Minaj and Mac currently collaborate, I rendered
a portrait of her using Mac foundations, eye shadows, liners and lip sticks. “Mac offers a wide range of foundations and makeup that gives me more hues than my traditional pastels. This new way of creating portraits is just crazy and fantastic at the same time, and I am having a lot of fun with it!” After he posted the image it was quickly shared on many large online publications earning more than a million views in just a few days. To view more portraits from The Celebrity Artist, follow him on Instagram: @ thecelebrityartist.
COMMONWEALTH BANK MAKES $25,000 DONATION TO AID HURRICANE VICTIMS CAROLINE Turnquest holds the cheque donated to the Red Cross from Commonwealth Bank, represented by Jacqueline Hunt-Farrington.
PHOTOS: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff
COMMONWEALTH Bank donated $25,000 to the Bahamas Red Cross to aid Hurricane Irma victims. At a press conference on Thursday, Jacqueline Farrington, Commonwealth Bank vice-president of internal audit, said the bank was pleased to present the Red Cross with the donation. “Just one year ago, it was Hurricane Matthew that brought devastation to some of our beautiful islands. “This year, with many residents and businesses not fully recovered from previous hurricanes, Hurricane Irma took aim,” Ms Farrington said.
Devastation “This time the devastation was widespread in the southern islands of the Bahamas. For those impacted by Hurricane Irma, Commonwealth Bank wants you to know that we will do all we can to stand by you and help you to once again stand on your own.” The bank official said the institution will also offer in house help to those who need to delay a loan payment or borrow money for hurricane repairs. “We also seek to help in other ways,” Ms Farrington said. “If you have
JACQUELINE HUNT-FARRINGTON, Commonwealth Bank vice-president of internal audit, said: “If you have been impacted. . . please call or come in and see one of our representatives.”
been impacted. . . please call or come in and see one of our representatives. “If you need to extend a loan repayment, to borrow funds to repair your home, school, church or small business please contact us. We are here to work with you.” The bank has also put collection boxes in its branches and has an account set up in the name of the Red Cross. Caroline Turnquest, executive director of the Bahamas Red Cross, thanked the bank for the donation, saying the institution always steps up in the wake of a natural disaster.