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Volume: 118 No.225, October 19, 2021
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‘DON’T LET UP IN ENFORCING RULES’ QUEUES at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium yesterday as people play their part in fighting COVID by lining up to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations. Photo: Racardo Thomas/Tribune Staff By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net CONSULTANT Physicians Staff Association President Dr Sabriquet Pinder-Butler is concerned that enforcement of the remaining COVID-19 restrictions is on the decline.
Her comment yesterday came as she discussed the outbreak of COVID-19 on several Family Islands. She said: “As it relates to the Family Islands, I think some of the challenges we’ve had are whether persons are actually adhering to the restrictions. The other challenge we’re having
now is who is supposed to be monitoring the restrictions that we have left in place? And that’s true for Family Islands and New Providence. “I think restrictions are being enforced less. I’m not sure who is enforcing them. I think people in the general public are perhaps asking questions and I heard
that we did not have any more COVID ambassadors; I don’t know how true it is. I understand that we don’t have persons policing the streets after midnight. I don’t know because generally I’m not on the streets at that time so I don’t know if persons are showing SEE PAGE TWO
MITCHELL HITS BACK AT MINNIS ‘LESSONS WILL BE LEARNED’ OVER HANDLING OF PANDEMIC FROM ELECTION ORGANISATION PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Fred Mitchell has hit out at former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and his criticism of the Davis administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement, Mr Mitchell said Dr Minnis called a snap election in the middle of the “worst wave” of the pandemic and held “super spreader” rallies, adding that the former administration’s COVID-19 policies failed.
“Less than one month after the Bahamian people rejected the negligence, dismissiveness, arrogance, incompetence and poor performance of Dr Minnis and the FNM at the polls, it appears that Dr Minnis and the FNM who once shunned the media and treated the concerns of Bahamians with utter contempt and disdain, have SEE PAGE FOUR
By TANYA SMITHCARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@tribunemedia.net WITH some Bahamians feeling that the organisation of the recent general election was substandard, Parliamentary Commissioner Lavardo Duncanson said lessons have been learned and will be taken into consideration. As preparations are being made
for the upcoming local government election, Mr Duncanson said the Parliamentary Registration Department is currently undergoing a post mortem. He spoke to the press after conducting a tour of his department yesterday for the new Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe, QC. SEE PAGE THREE
GOLDEN GIRLS’ GIFT ALSO HELD UP BY GOVT By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net THE Golden Girls’ troubles with government gifted land have been dragging on since 2002, according to Olympian Pauline DavisThompson, who described the situation as a “secret” kept under wraps to avoid embarrassing the government. “We didn’t want the rest of the world to know,” the
THE WINNING Bahamas team in the 2000 Sidney Olympics. 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medalist told The Tribune during an emotional interview yesterday, adding meetings were held and
letters sent to “every imaginable” official. She and her former teammates Savatheda Fynes, Chandra Sturrup, Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie and Eldece Clarke have never been able to access their Tropical Gardens properties nor have they been able to get the go-ahead for the placement of infrastructure. They received their grants on June 27, 2002.
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
SEE PAGE FIVE
FACE TO FACE: LIVING UP TO LEGEND’S LEGACY
- SEE PAGE EIGHT
MAN SHOT DEAD AS HE SAT IN CAR
A MAN died in hospital after he was shot while in his car yesterday morning. Shortly after 7am, police said they were alerted to gunshots in the area of Wulff Road and Market Street by ShotSpotter technology. Officers responded and on their arrival at the scene, they were told that a man and a woman were sitting in a vehicle when a gunman approached them and discharged his weapon at the car. SEE PAGE TWO
EXUMA LEFT WITH JUST ONE BANK
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
EXUMA’S Chamber of Commerce yesterday said it is aiming to engage the Government over the “devastating” impact of losing “two-thirds” of the island’s bank branches. Chamber president Pedro Rolle said it was impossible for Exuma to present itself to investors as a modern economy without sufficient access to “basic, functional commercial banking”. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
EDITOR’S NOTE
DUE TO CIRCUMSTANCES BEYOND OUR CONTROL, THE CLASSIFIED SECTION OF TODAY’S TRIBUNE COULD NOT BE PRINTED. HOWEVER, THE SECTION WILL STILL APPEAR ONLINE AT WWW.TRIBUNE242.COM. OUR APOLOGIES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE.
PAGE 2, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
PEOPLE lined up to receive COVID-19 vaccines at Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium yesterday.
Photos: Racardo Thomas/Tribune Staff
‘Don’t let up in enforcing rules’ from page one up any more to church functions and to Parliament because to me one event shouldn’t be different from the other.” Chief Superintendent of Police Zhivargo Dames, the officer-in-charge of the COVID Enforcement Unit, referred The Tribune to Police Commissioner Paul Rolle when asked yesterday about the number of citations issued recently to people for breaking COVID-19 protocols. And when asked about the current work of the COVID ambassadors, Commissioner Rolle said Health Minister Dr Michael Darville will address the issue. “The new administration sees COVID police as being a very effective tool and we intend to initiate additional training to ensure the officers are fully aware of what
IT may have been busy elsewhere but there were no vaccine lines at Loyola Hall yesterday. the new regulatory regime will be like,” Dr Darville said. “The COVID police need to be trained and need additional training.” The Davis administration reduced the COVID-19
curfew after coming into office. Large indoor government events with hundreds of guests have also been held such as the opening of Parliament at Baha Mar and swearing in of Cabinet
ministers since the September 16 election. Dr Pinder-Butler, nonetheless, believes enforcing existing restrictions is critical to preventing outbreaks like those
emerging on some Family Islands. “When you certainly see a Baha Mar event and you’re not sure who is policing certain things and you know that funerals and church services are happening more frequently than they were before and you know these are places where COVID police might have shown up in the past, you might start to count numbers,” she said. “And now people are getting more and more relaxed.” Dr Pinder-Butler connected outbreaks on Family Islands to election gatherings last month. “Unfortunately, I received some phone calls related to apparent increases in COVID cases a few weeks ago on the
Family Islands,” she said. “And we’ve been hearing information from persons who either have relatives or patients who had relatives coming out and reaching out through the church to say they were concerned because of the COVID cases and especially with (the) election happening so a lot of them thought that because they had so many persons coming over during the election, that those events sparked outbreaks. And the timeline was also in keeping at that time. “Because of the election that occurred, more persons are coming to the islands, persons had been exposed and now we’re just seeing the domino effect of what happened with the exposure from those cases. It is concerning because some of those islands didn’t have any cases of COVID at all. It’s also concerning because people are dying. Once that’s happening that in itself is troubling, whether that’s one, two, three, four, husbands and wives, families are being impacted. “We’re also concerned that some people on the Family Islands are not accepting that it is COVID or not getting proper treatment. In New Providence, deaths in many cases have been related to people not receiving any care at all and we’re wondering if that is happening on the Family Islands as well.” More than 600 people have died from COVID-19, according to health officials.
MAN SHOT DEAD AS HE SAT IN CAR from page one
The man was hit in his upper body and the suspect fled the scene on foot. The victim was taken to the hospital in a private vehicle, where he later died. The victim’s identity was not released up to press time. An investigation is ongoing. Last week, Police Commissioner Paul Rolle revealed that murders have increased by 61 percent from January 1 to September 30 compared to the same period last year. He said there were 87 murders during this time compared to 54 murders in the same period in 2020. Crimes against the person also increased by 26 percent during the specified time period.
However, police said there was a two percent decrease in overall crime. “Our most notable highlight for 2021 thus far is a slight overall reduction in crime,” Commissioner Rolle said last week during a virtual press conference. “The men and women of the force performed at an outstanding level to keep communities safe and provide police visibility throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas as a major deterrent to crime. This was coupled with daily operations that targeted hotspots and prolific offenders in an effort to offset and interrupt criminal activity.” Anyone with information on this latest homicide is asked to call police at 5029991 or Crime Stoppers at 328-TIPS.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 3
‘I will wait for Minnis speech’
BRENT Symonette pictured previously in Parliament.
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette said the upcoming speech former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is expected to give at a Free National Movement church service on Sunday will impact his views on the party’s leadership race. “The FNM chairman has said that nomination will close on November 18,” Mr Symonette said yesterday. “The former leader has said he will make a statement about his plans at the upcoming church service this Sunday. I will wait to see what he says before commenting.” Dr Minnis has said he will reveal the direction he will
take at the church service. This comes as observers wait to see if he will contest the leadership position at the convention. Earlier this month, the FNM’s Central Council agreed to hold a one-day convention on November 27 to settle the leadership race. Meanwhile, FNM chairman Carl Culmer said last month that Dr Minnis indicated he would not offer himself up for leadership at the convention. Some, however, believe Dr Minnis could still contest the post if someone nominates him. Asked about this possibility, Mr Culmer said last month: “That’s up to the council. I will not want to speculate. I don’t believe in speculation. I
believe that at the end of the day the process should take place and whatever the outcome is, we go from there.” Asked whether Dr Minnis’ future was discussed during the meeting, Mr Culmer said: “None of those things were discussed tonight. At the end of the day persons are free to nominate. Nomination will close on the Saturday before and so they have between nine and five each day. Preparations will be made for ballots and nominations and so at the end of the day persons will have the opportunity to nominate.” The one-day leadership convention will be the first time since 2016 that the FNM has held a convention. The party’s constitution calls for a convention to be held every two years.
‘LESSONS WILL BE LEARNED’ FROM ELECTION ORGANISATION from page one
“At this time we are continuing with our post mortem,” Mr Duncanson said. “We have met with the returning officers, Friday before last. We are scheduled to continue to meet internally and we are awaiting the final reports from the various overseas missions so that we can conclude our post mortem. “We have some recommendations that we have already begun compiling, so certainly that effort is ongoing at this time to ensure that we take into consideration all concerns in an effort to improve the overall system going forward.” Mr Duncanson said that the advanced poll was the model used to correct any errors made and tighten up areas that were found lacking. “The one thing we can say is we still find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic,” he explained. “So case in point, we would
PARLIAMENTARY Commissioner Lavado Duncanson. have had the advance poll where there was a category of voters such as seniors, etcetera, persons who were challenged in various capacities. We could have put
Photo: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff
more emphasis in accommodating such persons. We made those adjustments for the general election. “So in areas such as that, certainly is something that is first and foremost. It did
not surface in the family of islands, but certainly we look forward to improving that particular area going forward.” Asked about
recommendations made for more successful operations during elections, Mr Duncanson said more public education is a must. “Some of the recommendations made would include public education; enhancing our ability to inform the public of what to expect come Election Day,” he said. “There are other recommendations as well such as the sanitisation of the various work stations because that also impacted the timeline that persons took to vote. Areas such as those and making accommodations for crowds, which we did during the general elections. “So there were some lessons learned, best practices that we will seek to continue to utilise going forward.” Asked if he had a date for the upcoming local government election, Mr Duncanson said: “Not as yet. We have been working closely with the Department of Local Government.
We know that there was a position taken that (it would happen) within 90 days following the cessation of the Emergency Orders. “Again we are working closely with the Department of Local Government and as soon as the department communicates that information to us we would be in a position to convey that.” Based on the information given by Mr Duncanson and the fact that authorities in the new government said they will not seek to renew the Emergency Orders when they expire in November, the local government election should take place in the first quarter of 2022. Asked to confirm this, Mr Duncanson said, “That is a possibility based on what has been projected up to this point. That is a possibility, but certainly you can appreciate that something of that nature falls outside of the Parliamentary Registration Department to determine an actual date.”
MITCHELL PAYS TRIBUTE AFTER DEATH OF COLIN POWELL FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell issued a statement on the death of former United States Secretary of State Colin Powell, saying he was “an example of success as a Black man in America”. “I learned this morning of the death of Colin Powell, the American general and diplomat,” Mr Mitchell said in a statement. “I worked with him as foreign minister in my first term, particularly on issues related to Haiti. “Yesterday (Sunday) in the CARICOM meeting, I recalled while discussing Haiti his role in the crisis of that time. I recall his life, times and work as generally thoughtful and considered. He was also an example of Caribbean success in America, one to emulate. He was the son of Jamaican parents. He was an example of success as a Black man in America. I am saddened by
his passing. “On behalf of the Prime Minister the Hon Philip Davis, the government and people of The Bahamas, and in my own behalf, I extend condolences to the United States of America and his family.” Arinthia Komolafe, leader of the Democratic National Alliance, also released a statement about Colin Powell’s death. “While he was a lifelong supporter of the Republican party, he openly endorsed the last two Democratic presidents: Barack Obama and Joe Biden,” she noted in a statement. “The elder statesman was recently quoted as stating the following to CNN’s Fareed Zakaria regarding his support of political parties, ‘I can no longer call myself a fellow Republican. I’m not a fellow of anything right now, I’m just a citizen who has voted
Funeral Service For CAPTAIN THEODORE TREVOR WELLS, 50 affectionately called “Big Bucks” of Golden Gates II, who died at his residence on Wednesday, September 8th, will he held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday October 19th, 2021 at the Gravesite of Lakeview Memorial Gardens John F. Kennedy Drive. Rev’d Heuter B. Rolle, assisted by Rev’d Orthneil Humes will officiate. Arrangements are being handled by THE NEW COMMONWEALTH FUNERAL HOME INDEPENDENCE DRIVE.
Republican, voted Democrat throughout my entire career. And right now, I’m just watching my country and not concerned with parties.’ “General Powell’s story is an inspirational example of the American Dream where
many persons, including the children of immigrants can aspire to the highest level of success in a nation,” she noted. “A great man has finished his race and taken a well-deserved rest. I extend condolences to his family
and the American people.” Colin Powell, 84, was the first Black US secretary of state. He died yesterday from complications from COVID-19. Powell was fully vaccinated, his family said.
However Peggy Cifrino, Powell’s longtime chief of staff, confirmed to CNN that he had cancer as well as Parkinsons, meaning he was immuno-compromised and at a greater risk from the virus.
PAGE 4, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
THANK YOU TO VACCINATION VOLUNTEERS
GOVERNOR General CA Smith, left, and Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville at the luncheon on Sunday to thank COVID-19 vaccination volunteers. A COVID-19 vaccination volunteer luncheon was held Sunday during which the government thanked individuals who dedicated their service to the national vaccination programme aimed at fighting the coronavirus. The event was held at the Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar. Governor General Sir Cornelius A Smith delivered
remarks of appreciation. He offered “profound thanks and gratitude” to the volunteers for their service to the Bahamian people during what he termed “an unprecedented crisis.” He noted that in March 2020 the country faced a major health and economic crisis – the COVID-19 pandemic. “We needed volunteers
and you sprung into action and rendered service,” he said. Sir Cornelius praised the volunteers for being “an incredible example of what it means to be our brother’s keeper.” During his remarks, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville recalled “fighting for his life” as a COVID-19
patient and is thankful for the care he received in hospital. He also recalled visiting the vaccination centres and meeting the beautiful and dedicated people serving the country. Many of the volunteers are members of Rotary Clubs and other non-governmental organisations. “You worked tirelessly
in your capacities to permit the vaccination centres to operate in an organised professional and dignified manner,” Dr Darville said. “I thank each of you for the ongoing commitment despite the challenges. You continue to remain committed to the cause. I thank you for your gift of love… as we fight this invisible enemy that has come to our
Photos: Ulric Woodside/BIS shores.” On behalf of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister Myles Laroda thanked the volunteers who had sacrificed their time for the benefit of all Bahamians. “Our country is grateful and better off for your efforts,” he said.
PLP chairman Fred Mitchell MP.
MITCHELL HITS BACK AT MINNIS OVER HANDLING OF PANDEMIC
from page one
now found their voices on national issues,” Mr Mitchell said. “It is laughable, however, that Dr Minnis who with his failed COVID-19 and totalitarian policies called a snap election in the middle of the worst wave of this pandemic, now cares about the increasing number of COVID cases and deaths. “Has he forgotten his ‘drive-thru’ super spreader rallies and the debacle he created at the advanced polls? Is this not the same man who violated his COVID rules in holding closed gatherings exceeding the designated number of persons and punishing Bahamians while strangling the life out of our economy? “The Bahamian people voted against the Minnis administration because they were not fit to lead our nation’s future. Dr Minnis should accept this gracefully and reflect on the four years of disastrous governance he led. We accept, however, that his commentary (is) nothing more than a desperate attempt to hold on to power at the next FNM convention. It has little to do with his concern for the Bahamian people; we know this because in governance, he has shown us otherwise. “Our country would be better served if Dr. Minnis allows the new government to work on behalf of our people and support our efforts to vaccinate our citizens, protect our most vulnerable against COVID, end the emergency phase of this pandemic, deliver free testing for Bahamians, and re-open our economy.”
His comments came after Dr Minnis castigated the government saying its response to the virus has been “disastrous”. “The response is also uncaring and indifferent to the pain and suffering of those who are getting sick and their families,” Dr Minnis said in a press statement on Sunday. “As he did in opposition, Prime Minister Philip Davis clearly does not have an understanding of, nor a plan as to how to respond to, the deadly virus, as more Bahamians are dying daily from the virus. “With mounting deaths, outbreaks on various islands and the Bahamian public frightened that the number of cases may increase in the near future, the government has failed to articulate and execute comprehensive public health measures. “The PLP promised that it had a plan and a way forward on the pandemic. Tragically, there is no plan as promised. They do not have a way forward. One of their first decisions was to relax the curfew. They promised free mass testing. What are the plans for such testing?” Dr Minnis noted reports of rising case numbers and deaths on a number of Family Islands, which have limited capacity to deal with severe cases. “Because of limited oxygen supplies, no ventilators and no intensive care units on our islands, except New Providence and Grand Bahama, it is critical to stop the spread of the virus as quickly as possible on the Family Islands,” the Killarney MP said.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 5
from page one
countries don’t carry on like this and we are supposed to be the top Caribbean country, right? We are supposed to be the most financial Caribbean country, right? “Other countries give their athletes the keys to the house and car and say ‘you don’t ever have to work again,’ and this is how you treat your top athletes?” As it remains unclear why infrastructure was never installed, attempts to secure comments from other officials for a second day were unsuccessful. However, The Tribune understands that Minister of Youth Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg has said he and Minister of Works Alfred Sears are putting together a Cabinet paper to get the ball rolling for the placement of infrastructure in the Olympians’ community. The Tribune was told that both ministers were made aware of the situation over the weekend when Mr Miller spoke to Mr Sears who then called Mr Bowleg. They then committed to begin the process. The Tribune also understands that under the previous Minnis administration, former Works Minister Desmond Bannister spearheaded the completion of a Cabinet paper on the infrastructure issue, which was approved. However, following the recent general election, the Cabinet paper was said to have been misplaced, a source said. As a result, a new document was drafted.
Golden Girls’ gift also held up by govt The government at the time, she said, gave assurances that a road would be cut and the needed utilities put in place. However, for nearly 20 years there has been no movement. The Golden Girls came out yesterday in support of Ramon Miller, 2012 Olympic gold medalist, the day after he told The Tribune in an exclusive interview that he’s been in a years-long battle for the installation of lamp poles and water facilities for his Tropical Gardens home. Mr Miller was given the property by the government in 2014 and said he was elated to receive the gift to build a dream home for his wife and children. The home was completed in 2018. Despite following all of the correct procedures and seeking to have lamp poles for electricity and water infrastructure placed, Mr Miller said there has been “roadblock after roadblock.” Yesterday, former Prime Minister Perry Christie, who was the nation’s leader from 2002-2007 and 20122017, said while in office he gave instructions for the area where the parcels of land are located to be remediated. Given the fact that those instructions were never followed, Mr Christie summed it up to a “failure by the system”. The former prime minister said he would speak to Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis with
THE GOLDEN Girls ran to Olympic gold in Sydney in 2000 - and have been left since 2002 with no movement over the property they were gifted by the government as a reward. a view to correcting the land and acknowledging intention in granting the to know. We brag and say situation. that at least Ramon was land that is in full recogni- we are Bahamians, but “The land was given by able to build, but they are tion of the extraordinary that was a big secret that the government to persons not able to even do that. success at the highest level was being kept. We never who represented The Baha“I know that in my time in athletics of young per- wanted this stuff to go mas at the highest level,” I met with Ramon, and I sons who were deserving of international. Mr Christie said when The thought I had given direc- the grant. “We tried to go behind Tribune contacted him tions to remediate the “Therefore, every effort the scenes and talk and yesterday. situation on behalf of those ought to be made now to agitate to every imaginable “The intention at all persons who received the rectify what has been as we person because we didn’t times was to make the land grants from the government now see a failure to deliver want this to be public. We liveable and to the extent with a view to being able to what was promised,” Mr are thankful to the Bahathat it has not been done take advantage of the land Christie said. mian people for giving us represents a failure by the granted to them. Mrs Davis-Thompson this gift, but it’s one that we system because I am satis“My final point would said this situation should have no access to. fied that it was the intention be that I finished speaking have never been the case “I am afraid that one of of all of us who had the with someone who brought for athletes who worked us will close our eyes and responsibility to ensure that this to my attention and I hard to bring their beloved never be able to use that they had a liveable experi- told them I would make it country recognition. property. It will then be one ence in receiving the land.” a point to speak to the cur“My heart is heavy and of our family members who He continued: “I recently rent prime minister with pretty much we didn’t will benefit, but we are the saw Pauline Thompson who a view to his taking the want to embarrass the ones that did the work. was so incredibly despond- appropriate steps to bring government,” Mrs Davis“It’s humiliating and ent about the reality of not a final positive resolution Thompson said. “We didn’t embarrassing,” she conbeing able to access her to what was an honourable want the rest of the world tinued. “Other Caribbean
SWEETING URGES BAHAMIANS TO GROW MORE FOOD CLAY Sweeting, Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, urged Bahamians to place an emphasis on growing food to reduce the country’s costly food bill during his remarks for World Food Day 2021. World Food Day, which was celebrated on Saturday, is collectively commemorated by more than 150 countries. This year’s theme is “Our Actions are our future. Better production, better nutrition, a better environment and better life.” Mr Sweeting noted that the COVID-19 pandemic
has spotlighted the “fragility and inequalities” of the local food system and has “underscored the urgency to make them more sustainable, inclusive and resilient.” “When we speak of food systems, we are referring to the sum of activities involved in producing, processing, transporting, consuming and disposing of food. These activities are cross-cutting and integrated throughout our ministries, industries and private sectors. Each of you participate in the food system every time you eat,” he said.
“As a major food importing country, we are at a higher risk for food shortages and increased food prices.” The Bahamas’ food importation bill is pegged at $1 billion per annum. In 2012, food and agriculture contributed 1.2 percent of GDP. However, by 2018 this dwindled to 0.7 percent, according to officials. Mr Sweeting said The Bahamas currently produces eight percent of its domestic market needs and this is projected to be halved in the next five years. “This is very alarming and
our current food system is unsustainable. There is the increasing recognition that the sustainable transformation of our food system must also be central in our efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 thereby accelerating the collective action for achieving a diversified economy through food and agriculture,” he said. He added that Bahamians can take action by engaging in sustainable practices such as using biopesticides, solar energy at processing plants, eating more local produce and reducing the
carbon footprint. “We must take care of our natural resources. Reduce, reuse, recycle are very basic principles that can help preserve our natural resources for a better environment and a better life. Do not be so quick to discard kitchen scraps, but rather use it for your compost or use more glassware than plastics,” Mr Sweeting said. Other actions, the minister suggested are supporting local farmers; choosing healthier meals to incorporate whole foods; supporting local restaurants serving Bahamian cuisine;
recycling and reuse for a better environment and involving children in outdoor nature activities. He concluded by encouraging Bahamians to become more involved in agriculture and marine enterprises. “It is my hope that you will be inspired to also become involved in the many facets of the industries whether as an agri/ marine business entrepreneur or a technician to assist in charting the way forward to achieving a diversified economy through food and agriculture in The Bahamas,” Mr Sweeting said.
PAGE 6, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
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Dream turned to nightmare for sporting stars WHAT is the point of a promise if it remains unfulfilled? In yesterday’s Tribune, we reported on the situation faced by Olympic gold medal winner Ramon Miller. In 2012, he was part of the 4x400m relay team that won the gold medal in the London Olympics. He ran the anchor leg to bring the gold home for his country. As a thank you, he was given Crown Land in 2014 by the government on which to build a home. At the time, he was elated. That joy has turned to frustration as he has faced, as he puts it, “roadblock after roadblock”. He talked of how he had written to former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for intervention, how he had spoken to Dr Minnis in person, and had two meetings with former Prime Minister Perry Christie. He was in contact with former Minister of Works Desmond Bannister. And still he was left in limbo with a failure to put in infrastructure to accommodate what should have been a dream home, that has turned into a nightmare. Perhaps his might be an isolated case? Not so, it would seem. In today’s Tribune, you can read how the Golden Girls, the women who won gold at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, have also been left frustrated over land gifted to them by the government. Pauline Davis-Thompson, Savatheda Eynes, Chandra Sturrup, Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie and Eldece Clarke have never been able to access their Tropical Gardens properties nor have they been able to get the go-ahead for the placement of infrastructure. Their situation has been dragging on since 2002. That’s nearly 20 years. Pauline Davis-Thompson said yesterday: “We didn’t want the rest of the world to know,” adding that it was a “secret”. “My heart is heavy and pretty much we didn’t want to embarrass the government,” she said. “We didn’t want the rest of the world to know. We brag and say we are Bahamians, but that was a big secret that was being kept. We never wanted this stuff to go international. “We tried to go behind the scenes and talk and agitate to every imaginable person because we didn’t want this to be public. We are thankful to the Bahamian people for giving us this gift, but it’s one
that we have no access to.” She added: “It’s humiliating and embarrassing.” This is a failing on the part of government after government. These are athletes who represented our nation at the highest level. As the world watched, the Bahamas flag was raised and our national anthem played thanks to the efforts of these supreme athletes. Past governments should be embarrassed, whether FNM or PLP. This is no way to treat our sporting heroes. This is shameful. Was it just one big publicity stunt? Look what we did for these wonderful athletes, just don’t expect us to follow through? Former Prime Minster Perry Christie yesterday described the situation as a “failure by the system”. He said: “The intention at all times was to make the land liveable and to the extent that it has not been done represents a failure by the system because I am satisfied that it was the intention of all of us who had the responsibility to ensure that they had a liveable experience in receiving the land.” It was your system at the time, Mr Christie. It is not just a failure by the system. It is a failure by that system’s leaders. All of them. That mouthful of gobbledygook sounds exactly like the kind of buck shifting that has led to these star athletes being left high and dry by their government. We all know the saying about good intentions, Mr Christie, but unlike outside the homes of athletes, at least it seems the road to hell is paved. It leaves a bitter taste for our sporting heroes. It also leaves our future stars wondering if any promise of land will be delivered properly. Will any future reward be tainted by suspicion? This should not be a major hurdle to overcome. In fact, this should be a very easy win for the new administration led by Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. Fix this. Get it done. Honour our sporting heroes the way they should have been. You promised a New Day, Mr Davis. Let’s make this a first step, and treat those who helped our nation shine on the greatest stage of all the way properly. They have been our heroes. It’s time to be their hero.
Too early to blame the new government EDITOR, The Tribune I WAS catching up on some reading on the Internet news site Bahamas Press and was shocked to come across four antiProgressive Liberal Party (PLP) submissions that were penned over the past several days. Those, coupled with an anti-PLP tweet, is probably being interpreted by its readership as buyer’s remorse towards the nascent administration of Prime Minister Philip “Brave Davis” by the anonymous editor of the news site. In fairness to Davis, his party has been in government for less than a month. The criticisms being leveled at the PLP appears to be premature, unreasonable and unfair. The only boo-boo committed by this administration would be the cumbersome restrictions being saddled on the media houses by the newly appointed press secretary in the Office of
the Prime Minister, Clint Watson. This seems to be Watson’s shrewd way of protecting the administration from what he did for years towards the former Free National Movement (FNM) government on Beyond the Headlines. I believe that what Watson is proposing will be mostly disregarded by Davis and his Cabinet ministers. True freedom of the press is paramount for a healthy democracy, something that even Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels understood. In any case, the editor of Bahamas Press appears to be disgruntled and disillusioned about the PLP for its refusal to thoroughly purge the civil service of alleged FNMs. That Davis has ignored the tribalistic calls to persecute FNM government workers isn’t sitting well with Bahamas Press editor and other rabid PLPs. Hence, the unreasonable bickering and complaints on Facebook and Twitter
by these disgruntled PLPs, who are expecting Davis to fix an economy left decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Dorian. The civil service is already overstaffed. The reality of our financial situation precludes the possibility of mass hirings we are accustomed to seeing after every election cycle. COVID-19 has presented the political directorate with an unusual dilemma. Many of the PLP campaign generals and foot soldiers will not get to enjoy the spoils of victory. By refusing to harm his political opponents, Davis is demonstrating a level of political maturity that is progressive and a breath of fresh air that a deeply polarised nation needs. Davis understands that, fresh out of a divisive election cycle, The Bahamas needs healing. KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama. October 14, 2021.
Elephants in the room EDITOR, The Tribune. IT IS remarkable that Dr Hubert A Minnis (FNMKillarney) the cling leader of the rump opposition, who never seemed to find the time to speak with the press and the media while in office, is now finding the time and talking points to do so. Minnis is really now irrelevant in Bahamian politics and is yesterday’s man. He may not have come to the brutal conclusion that few Bahamians, if any, now listen to him. He’s akin to the fabled Emperor who was told repeatedly that he had no clothes on. The massive rejection of his political leadership must have stung him worse than a scorpion. If I were the new and refreshing Prime Minister in the form of the enlightened and focused the Most Honourable Philip “Brave” Davis, QC (PLP-Cat Island) I would not pay any attention to the rants and ravings of a badly mauled “used to be” ex Prime Minister. The rump FNM is planning a national convention in years for November. According to the outgoing Chairman of that party, Charles Culmer, he indicated that Minnis had told him that he would not seek a nomination as party leader although he’s now appearing to walk back on that assertion. The real issues and elephants in the room, figuratively and literally are: the lingering effects, economic and health wise, of the pandemic; the troubling rise in inflation; liberalisation of Crown Land & Commonage Property and the reconstruction and rebuilding of Abaco and Grand Bahama. We as a people should waste precious little time listening to Minnis, who appears to have a messianic dual personality. Let us deal with the real and salient ‘problems’. He’s had his opportunity at the wicket and, in my view, failed us Big Time, across the board. PM Davis has wisely appointed the Hon Michael Darville (PLP-Tall Pines) as Minister of Health & Wellness. This would be Darville’s second time around as Minister of Health. He has the experience and the talent to get a firm and realistic grip on the pandemic. It will take much more work and some innovative strategies but I am persuaded that he is the right man at the right time to marshal and implement, with the approval of cabinet, sensible and workable solutions. It must be borne in mind that there
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net is no magical wand that he or anyone else are able to wave and simply erase COVID-19 overnight. Bahamians like the rest of the world are going to have to learn to actually live with the virus while managing it the best we are able. After a year and a half of disjointed and erratic reactions, economic and healthwise, of the now mercifully concluded Minnis regime, the economy was decimated and thousands of ordinary Bahamians have been involuntarily relegated to the bread lines. He and his regime spent B$800,000 per week on food and grocery items. To date no known audited financial statements have been provided. Monies were spent over in Abaco and Grand Bahama for rebuilding and reconstruction efforts. Tens of millions, allegedly, BUT where are the audited statements? The efforts of the Davis administration to build back better relative to The Bahamas, apart from the handling of the pandemic, will be crucial to turn our economy around. There must be serious stimulations. For instance, a good friend of mine based in Grand Bahama, Lewis Astwood, proposed a national apprenticeship programme to the then Christie led PLP, but nothing much came out of that. Under that scheme employers who participated would take on one or more young Bahamians, maybe just out of high school; a college or a university for a year or two so as to transfer marketable skills and enhance their abilities to either go into business for themselves or spin off into new developments and industries. The employer would receive a stipend from the central administration so as to actually pay the apprentices to learn. This would be a win/win situation for all, especially our younger people and national productivity. Land is the basis of wealth. Too many past governments have either ignored applications for Crown Land or placed them if what is commonly known ‘as the dance’ whereby they receive endless numbers of letters of acknowledgement and inordinate requests for the production of a surveyed plan, at their expense. Even then, years later, they are still obliged to wait for the actual grant.
This was the way it was from Sir Lynden’s time to right now. Brave will have to address this issue as well as a land “problem” called commonage, especially in Cat island and Exuma. He spoke about it in the House of Assembly some years ago. His pleas and remarks fell on deaf ears. He now has the power to actually bring concrete relief to the masses. Abaco and Grand Bahama are a major portion of our patrimony and national economic plank. They both should have been well on the way to recovery and rebuilding. Nothing much has been done and the beat goes on. Grand Bahama has great potential and I would hope that the Minister of State for Grand Bahama would hit the proverbial ground running. There is No More Time To Waste. The Grand Lucayan Hotel in Freeport must be divested, if only to a group of deep pocketed and managerial experienced Bahamian consortium. That property is bleeding taxpayers’ monies even as you read this. Whatever happened to OBAN over in East Grand Bahama? How come Minnis does not make reference to this or the Ginn Project over in West End? Yes, it is a phenomenon of national proportions that loquacious Minnis is able to find his tongue at this stage, but could not speak coherently, if at all in four years! Minnis is yesterday’s man. Who will be selected to succeed him? May I suggest that he will be re-elected as leader? Duane Sands despite his great talent as a medical doctor does not, in my opinion, have the gravitas or personality. Pintard was too closely connected to Louis Bacon and his alleged surrogates: Togie and Bobo in seeking to dig up “dirt” on my good friend Peter Nygard. Iram Lewis just reached and will not be accepted by any large numbers. The Hon Shannedon Cartwright is now coming across as light weight and forked tongued, politically, in my view. I predict that the rump FNM will be in opposition for at least 10 years while Brave serves as Prime Minister and digs us out of the massive hole dug by Minnis and crew. The elephants in the room are uncaged and running loose. But Brave, I am sure, will re-cage them in short order. ORTLAND H BODIE, Jr Nassau, October 18, 2021.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 7
SUSPECT FACES THEFT CHARGES By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A 28-YEAR-OLD man accused of committing a number of car thefts and fraud offences over a four-month period will be outfitted with a monitoring device until his trial is completed. Darius Brown was arrested after he was accused of stealing and dishonestly receiving a woman’s $4,000 2011 Nissan Cube on June 17. He was also accused of stealing and dishonestly receiving Jonathan Forbes’ $4,000 Honda Fit sometime between May and June. Police said Brown also stole Tara Wright’s $5,500 Nissan Cube on June 22 and threatened to harm Sharday Russell on September 23. Prosecutors allege Brown also threatened to kill another woman on two different occasions in September. He is also accused of threatening to kill a fourth woman after he stole $2,500 from her, which he had custody of by reason of his employment, sometime between May and August. Police said the accused also stole three more vehicles from a car rental service in May with a combined value of $15,000. They also accused him of possessing and uttering a forged road traffic certificate and bill of sale for a blue Toyota on April 23, despite the fact that he knew the documents were not genuine. Brown is accused of obtaining $2,300 cash and a Pitbull puppy from a woman by means of
false pretences and stealing a $5,500 Nissan Cube from Crystal Davis in March. Prosecutors said he fraudulently obtained $3,650 from a man and tried to present a forged certificate of title for a Nissan Cube to a Road Traffic Department official on April 26. Prosecutors also said Brown stole a $5,500 Honda Fit on June 16 and fraudulently obtained $3,500 from a man on June 18. Police said the accused also caused nearly $600 worth of damage to Preston Collin’s 2008 Nissan and white metal gate on August 2. When Brown appeared before Magistrate Kendra Kelly yesterday, he denied all of the allegations. During the hearing, the prosecution said they were objecting to bail because of the number of offences. Brown’s attorney, Wendawn Frazier, argued that her client was a good candidate for bail because there was no evidence that he would miss court if he was released prior to his trial. After listening to arguments from both sides, Magistrate Kelly said she considered Brown’s presumption of innocence and granted him $15,000 bail. As part of the conditions of his release, he must sign in to his nearest police station twice a week and be outfitted with a monitoring device. Magistrate Kelly also warned Brown not to interfere with any of the witnesses involved in his case. If he does, he could risk being remanded to jail until the completion of his trial.
TEEN IN COURT OVER DEADLY SHOOTING By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A TEENAGER was yesterday charged with murder in connection with a shooting incident that left one man dead and a juvenile injured earlier this month. Robertho Clairvius, 18, appeared before the Senior Magistrate charged with the murder of Arlington Stubbs as well as the attempted murder of a young girl on October 5. According to initial police reports, around 8.40pm that night, the ShotSpotter system alerted police of a shooting incident that occurred on Apache Alley off Kemp Road. When they arrived at the scene, officers
discovered a silver coloured vehicle with an adult male and juvenile female suffering from gunshot wounds. The man was pronounced dead at the scene and the girl was taken to the hospital, where at last reports she was listed in stable condition. Clairvius was not required to enter pleas to the charges yesterday and his case was adjourned to February 2, 2022 for service of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). In the meantime, he was denied bail and remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. He has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.
MEN ACCUSED OF SEPARATE ATTACKS By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
TWO men who denied harming a man and woman in separate incidents were both granted bail ahead of their trials. In the most recent incident, Dino Gilbert was accused of giving William Penn two small lacerations on his head while the two were at Arawak Cay on October 11. During his arraignment before Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr, he denied the allegation and his case was adjourned to November 4
for trial. In the interim, Gilbert was granted $2,500 bail. In a separate case, officers arrested Robert McCoy after he was accused of injuring Crystal Sweeting on October 10. When he appeared before Magistrate Allen, Jr, he also pleaded not guilty to one count of causing harm. After McCoy was granted $3,000 bail, he was warned not to contact any of the witnesses involved in his case until the disposition of his proceedings is determined. The accused returns to court November 8 for trial.
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Discussion on vote process By TANYA SMITHCARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@ tribunemedia.net
MINISTER of National Security Wayne Munroe speaking to the media after touring the parliamentary registration department. Photo: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff
MINISTER of National Security Wayne Munroe said discussions are ongoing about improving the voting process. He spoke to reporters after touring the Parliamentary Registration Department yesterday. When asked about the possibility of The Bahamas moving towards electronic voting, as opposed to manually marking a ballot, Mr Munroe said that would be something that needs extensive consultation. “That would be a matter for wider government policy,” Mr Munroe said. “When one looks at advances in technology, that (electronic voting) would be something that comes after consultation. It may be driven by this department advancing it or being directed to look into it. But that would be a matter that we would proceed to only after extensive consultation. “The right to vote is sacred. Persons already have great conspiracy theories about voting in the way that we do and so for public confidence, before you change anything you would seek the widest consultation possible.” Asked about biometric voter’s cards, he suggested talks are ongoing. “There are in fact discussions about moving to something more durable and that’s how I would state it at this point,” he said. “That is what is being discussed at the moment.”
Mr Munroe said it was important for him to tour the Parliamentary Registration Department since being appointed a few weeks ago. “I have had a previous meeting with the parliamentary commissioner,” Mr Munroe said. “I thought it was important to come and see the physical structure that he and his department labours in. You’ve seen the technological advancement here in the foyer with the kiosk. “We also had a look at the counter foils and the production of that and progress towards digitising in a modern age. So you have it digitally as well as in paper fashion. Of course there was a conversation about the preparation for upcoming local government elections and school board elections.” He said the department will respond to concerns raised about how the last general election was conducted. “This is a progressive department and we will be responsive to any concerns,” Mr Munroe said. “For instance, as would have been indicated, there’s consideration now in addressing how the advanced polls (are) conducted, who all may be included. “The parliamentary commissioner and his team have, in a very progressive manner, looked into being able to isolate everybody over 65, so if it’s desired that seniors automatically will be included in the advanced polls, they would have the technology to do that.”
PAGE 8, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
A family living up to the legacy of a legend Face to Face
By FELICITY DARVILLE
WHEN a giant of a man leaves the imprint of his footstep on this Earth, it can be seen for generations to come. That is why the family of E Pedro Roberts II continues to honour his legacy long after his passing. He is known as the Father of Pharmacy in the Bahamas. His work to revolutionise the pharmacy department of the Princess Margaret Hospital can still be seen today. Many professional pharmacists in this country blossomed from under his wings. His son, E Pedro Roberts III, is still successfully leading the group of companies he founded. Both of these men stand on the broad shoulders of Enoch Pedro Roberts I, nation builder, educator, craftsman and mentor to many. It is this kind of generational legacy that helps to weave the fabric of a strong nation. I have known Enoch Pedro Roberts III, better known as Pedro, for many years. What I did not know was that getting to know him would actually turn out to be a family affair. His loving mother, Jacqueline Ann Roberts (nee McCollough) is such a gem. His sister, Anna Maria “Mimi” Roberts is a well-known and trusted pharmacist like her father; and she is one of my most trusted friends. E Pedro Roberts II has six grandchildren, and they are all respectful and intelligent, a trait that runs through the entire family. In all my years of journaling the lives of Bahamians, I have yet to find a family like that of EP Roberts I. You may recognise his name, as there is a primary school named after him in New Providence. He and his wife Gladys Raine Roberts (nee Archer), both from Abaco, were parents to seven children: Dorothy Wisdom (nee Roberts); Gerald Roberts; Sylvia Johnson (nee Roberts); Father Anthony Roberts; E Pedro Roberts II; Dr. Patrick Roberts; and the only surviving child, Rosemund Roberts Williams. From these children came many great descendants, all involved in nation building,
including: Italia Johnson, first female Speaker of the House of Assembly; Senator Gladys Johnson-Sands; Attorney Kathleen Hassan; former Ministers of Youth, Sports and Culture Neville Wisdom and Daniel Johnson; Oscar Johnson; educator Cora Cooper; Hollis Roberts Delancy, a E Pedro Roberts II, seated, with his wife Jacqueline and children E Pedro III and Anna Maria. recent Face to Face feature, would take them around University Hospital in in pharmacology, pharand many others. These are the world. It came to hospital pharmacy and maceuticals and clinical just a few that I know per- fruition. pharmacy administration. pharmacology. Because sonally. It speaks to how In the case of EP Rob- The late Francis Nicholas, of this, many pharmastrong and broad this legacy erts II, he developed a Chief Pharmacist of Mercy cists in active practice in is and it is for this reason, as keen interest in science, Douglas Hospital played The Bahamas today have the family celebrates what inspired by his father. EP a major role in his hospital been taught, mentores and would have been the 85th Senior guided his son into practice. inspired by him. birthday of E Pedro Rob- the technical schools and In 1961, Pedro Jr Not only did he selflessly erts II this week, I join them in 1952, EP Junior became graduated from Temple offer his time and skills in in honoring him. a pupil science teacher University with a Bach- the public service. He also When Enoch, originally under Robert Cunningham, elor of Science degree in had bigger dreams of his from Green Turtle Cay, a native of Scotland work- Pharmacy and continued own. He founded Commonand Gladys Raine, origi- ing under contract with the to practice in both Mercy wealth Drugs and Medical nally from Marsh Harbour, Board of Education. Pedro Douglas Hospital phar- Supplies. Today, known as moved to Jr attended macy during the day and CDM Group, this comNew Provi- ‘From these children Continuing Hampton’s Pharmacy in the pany spans a wide range of dence, they Education evening. In January 1962, services. The CDM ethical had high came many great Evening after the Government of department supplies medihopes of descendants, all Schools at the Bahamas established cation to the hospital and giving their involved in nation both West- the post of Senior Phar- pharmacies all over the children a ern Junior macist in the healthcare country. Over the counter good edu- building, including: School system, he returned to drugs and other associated cation in Italia Johnson, first under Carl- The Bahamas and worked products are also sold from order to female Speaker of the ton Francis, at The Princess Margaret the offices on East Street establish for and East- Hospital (PMH) in Nassau. South. them a good House of Assembly; ern Senior This was a proud moment The beauty division is a foundation Senator Gladys School in healthcare history, to well known sole distribufor life. As Johnson-Sands; under have a Bahamian qualified tor of a number of trusted an educaDonald to take such a senior post in beauty brands including tor, Enoch Attorney Kathleen Davis (both pharmacy, and to perform Black Opal, Alfa Parf, wanted to Hassan; former for whom so well. ORS, Kiss and many others. make sure Ministers of Youth, schools While working at PMH CDM also has under its his children have been as Senior Pharmacist, Pedro wing Sparkle Laundromat, could go Sports and Culture named). He Jr took courses in Clinical with locations on East St even further Neville Wisdom and successfully Pharmacy at Mercy Doug- South and Blue Hill Road than he did. completed las Hospital, Long Island, South. For Pedro III, keepDaniel Johnson; Oscar Through a several New York and Nassau ing his father’s legacy alive is Johnson; educator scholarship GCE exam- County Hospital, New important. He continues to opportunity, Cora Cooper; Hollis inations York. When G Bert Stra- make his staff aware that the the gifted before grad- chan retired, Pedro Jr was achievements of today are Roberts Delancy, young uating from promoted to the post of all thanks to the vision and Enoch was a recent Face to high school. Chief Pharmacist, a position hard work of his father – a able to Face feature, and Pedro Jr he held until his retirement trailblazer in pharmacy and go off to then joined from the public service healthcare in his time. many others.’ Tuskegee the British in 1987. In 1969, he acted I spoke to his “Aunt Institute Caribbean for a short period as PMH Rosie” , the only surviv(now University) and Meteorological Service, Hospital Administrator ing child of EP Roberts I, obtain a degree, a highly where he served a brief and from 1984 to 1987, he who called him a “woncommendable achieve- stint as an Assistant Mete- acted as Director of Materi- derful human being”. She ment back in 1936. Trained orologist. He then applied als Management, Bahamas recalls that her brother was in biology, chemistry and and was accepted into Ministry of Health. It was accident prone as a boy, woodwork, he came back the prestigious Temple said that doctors in the likely getting into all the and worked throughout the University’s School of hospital considered him antics that give little boys Family Islands, imparting Pharmacy Programme in their equal in intellect, and their knee scuffs and body his knowledge and mold- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania treated him as such. bruises. But she said he ing young people to do the in 1957. During his studies He taught Pharmacol- was an excellent student same. at Temple, Pedro Jr spent ogy and Drug Dosage from who applied himself. She Later on in life, having three years at Hampton’s Application at the Baha- pointed out that in addihis own children, he began Pharmacy and Gumbs’ mas School of Nursing for tion to his national service, to sow into them the seeds Pharmacy in retail prac- almost his entire tenure her brother served on the of good moral standards tice and at Mercy Douglas at PMH. He also lectured International Association and intellect that he hoped Hospital and Temple pharmacy apprentices of Pharmacists for many years, and was its president at one time. She said that he was the President of the Caribbean Association of pharmacists for many years. This not only afforded him the opportunity to travel all over the world, she said, but it also caused him to become a mentor to young pharmacists from many countries, who would call on him for advice and encouragement. Her daughter Donna called her Uncle Pedro ‘the family philanthropist”. She said that he was like the “glue that kept their family together”. He would always gather the family for special occasions. In addition, she says he helped as many family members as he could with their tertiary educational THREE generations bearing the same name - from left, EP Roberts I, EP Roberts II, and EP Roberts III. pursuits. This, she said, is
hard to find in today’s world – a family member who would go out of their way to assist everyone in the family that he possibly could. To show just how important education was to him, Donna pointed out that he worked as a packing boy for many years to save for his college education. While in college, she said, he worked straight through that time to sustain himself. His nephew Neville Wisdom calls him “a Bahamian legend”. “A man of many talents, his academic and professional accomplishments are well known,” Neville said. “But he was also outstanding in teaching, sports, business, politics, agriculture and Family Island development. These were all areas that interested him. His family was important to him, however, his love for his God, and his service to mankind, distinguished him as a true Bahamian humanitarian.” Pedro Jr was a founding member of St Michael’s Methodist Church in New Providence. His Methodist family still holds his memories there. I remember when Mimi invited me to attend a service. Rev Dr Philip A Stubbs delivered a phenomenal sermon that touched many hearts in church that day. I saw the love which they have for her father and for his family, and it speaks to his spiritual integrity as well. The measure of a man is also in his ability to pass on his skills to the next generation. Proof that Pedro Jr did this lies in one of his mentees, Vivienne Lockhart, who became Chief Pharmacist after he retired. She went on to become the Director of the Bahamas National Drug Agency, Public Hospitals Authority. “EP Roberts was a true advocate for the advancement of the pharmacy profession in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean community,” she said. “His involvement in the establishment of their professional associations and his zeal for improvements in the legislation framework for pharmacy spoke volumes of his desire for improvement for the profession. The results of his mentorship is quite evident in the success of many individuals who sought his guidance before and after venturing into this noble profession – Pharmacy. As a former colleague, I’m proud to be a product of his mentorship. His words of wisdom and encouragement are etched within and continue to be the guiding force with each step taken. He lives on!”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 9
Will climate conference really make a difference? PEOPLE have been talking about the upcoming climate summit for so long that it is hard to believe it is now really upon us. Under the presidency of the UK, the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference will take place in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, from 31 October to 12 November. Known as COP26 – the latest in the series termed “Conference of the Parties” – it is said to be the most important climate meeting with the attendance of world leaders since the landmark Paris Agreement signed at COP21 in 2015. As such, it is being billed as a make-or-break moment in the fight against global warming, not least because countries will be asked to provide an update on what they agreed to in Paris and make new commitments about reducing levels of carbon emissions. It is generally accepted that climate change is all too real. But scientists are saying that much of it is caused by human influence and, to the extent that it is man-made, it can be limited if there is a will to do so. With the conference less than a fortnight away, COP26 has been in the headlines recently because of uncertainty about attendance. Even The Queen was overheard last week – unintentionally through a microphone mistakenly left on - saying she still had “no idea” who was coming. Moreover, as an indicator of her interest in the environment and climate change and her frustration at the lack of action, she was also recorded as saying about political leaders that “it’s really irritating when they talk, but they don’t do.” It was confirmed only last week that President Biden will attend. But, at the time of writing, it looks as though Chinese leader Xi Jinping will not be there and President Putin’s attendance has not been confirmed. Xi’s absence could be significant given that China is reportedly responsible for nearly 30 per cent of global carbon emissions, and, unless it commits to new action, the prospect of keeping global warming to the 1.5 degree limit could be scuppered. The other development which has hit the news is a BBC interview with Prince William some days ago in which he commented that the world’s mega wealthy and top minds should be “trying to repair this
BAHAMIAN WINNER OF ENVIRONMENT PRIZE The Peter Young column planet, not trying to find the next place to go and live” and that it is “crucial to be focusing on this planet rather than giving up and heading out to space to try and think of solutions for the future”. This was clearly a dig at the so-called space race by billionaires like Englishman Richard Branson and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos but, presumably, it was also directed at the 90-year-old William Shatner – of Star Trek fame playing Captain Kirk – who last week briefly travelled into space 62 miles above the surface of the Earth. Shatner is quoted as saying that space travel could lead to discovery of ways to deal with global warming and “it was a baby step towards getting industry up there so that all those polluting industries…… would not impact the planet’s ecosystem”. Many will find such an idea barely plausible and anyway well down the track – and I, for one, believe Prince William is right. Surely all available resources should be used now in reducing the damaging effects of climate change while space tourism is put on the back burner. As for the Caribbean and Small Island Developing States, the principal issue in relation to global warming is, of course, rising sea levels caused primarily by added water from melting ice sheets and glaciers together with, according to the scientists, expansion of sea water as it warms. These experts say that even the aim of restricting levels to 1.5 degrees of warming will have a severe impact on low lying areas. So COP26 is a critical opportunity for the international community to
A MONTH ago in this column, I wrote about Coral Vita, a company in Grand Bahama which, with its land-based coral farms, is a model for large-scale reef restoration. It had been chosen as one of the first-ever 15 finalists for the celebrated Earthshot Prize in the category of “Revive our Oceans”. The prize was launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation in 2020 to encourage innovative solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges. It has already become the most prestigious global environment prize in history, and it aims to unleash an unprecedented wave of innovation and leadership to tackle the threats posed by climate change to the world’s oceans, air and land. So, imagine the joy and satisfaction of learning that, at a star-studded Awards ceremony at London’s Alexandra Palace on Sunday, Coral Vita was named one of the five winners, each of whom was judged to be the best in an individual category and to have the greatest impact on the biggest environmental challenges facing the planet. Each will receive some $1.4m prize money and will benefit from a global network of professional and technical support to scale their innovative technology. In the words of Prince William: “Our five inspirational winners show that everyone has a role to play in the global effort to repair our planet. We need businesses, leaders, innovators and communities to take action. And, ultimately, we need all of us to demand that the solutions get the support they need. Because the success of our Winners is our collective, global Earthshot.” According to the official wording,
recognise the gravity of this situation and, in particular, to provide Caribbean countries with access to new financing in order to build protective infrastructure. Biden’s attendance has been announced at relatively short notice. With it came a US statement that the Glasgow summit will be “a pivotal moment on the road towards a more secure, prosperous and sustainable future for our planet”. His trip to Europe will include the G20 summit in Rome at the end of the month and an audience with the Pope. Some say it is remarkable that he is making the trip at all considering his low approval rating and all the mounting problems in the US, but his presence should help Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s efforts to secure significant commitments from other countries to reduce carbon emissions. According to the UN,
LOSS OF A FINE PUBLIC SERVANT THE terrible news at the end of last week of the murder of a Member of Parliament in Britain has sent shock waves across the country. On Friday, Sir David Amess, the Conservative Party member for Southend in the east of England, was stabbed to death during his fortnightly surgery for his constituents. The 25-year-old suspected killer arrested at the scene has been identified as a British citizen of Somali heritage and is being detained under the UK’s 2020 Terrorism Act. This appalling incident comes after another MP was shot and stabbed to death 5 years ago and a police officer was fatally stabbed outside Parliament in 2017. The 69-year-old Sir David has been described as a kind, genial, gentle, muchloved and respected man who was an outstanding constituency MP. Rather than aspiring to ministerial office, he preferred to look after the interests of those who elected him and did so successfully and continuously for thirty-eight years after being first elected to Parliament in 1983. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken movingly about him saying that “our hearts are full of shock and sadness”. The nation is united in grief and sympathy at this hideous and senseless killing which
many regard as a blow to the very core of Britain as a liberal democracy. The sad fact is, however, that in an open and free society MPs and other prominent people in public life are vulnerable to attack from those who for one reason or another are disaffected or aggrieved or are mentally disturbed. They will always be potential targets for those intent on evil and who do not fear the consequences. This horrific incident has therefore ignited fresh concerns over the protection of parliamentarians and a review of their security arrangements has already been launched. The direct relationship between MPs and their constituents is a cornerstone of democracy so a balance has to be struck between security and the continuing need for face-to-face meetings. They cannot stay hidden away from the public when in their constituencies because the very essence of being an MP is to get out and about, talk to a cross section of people and attend local public events. MPs need to make themselves available to those they represent. But this cannot work if they are in fear of their lives. Whatever new security arrangements may be imposed in the aftermath of such horror, there is
already controversy about how toxic the political culture and atmosphere in the country has become, fed by violent rhetoric and intemperate language and where intimidation is now treated as a legitimate tactic. But there should be no place for this instead of civility and respect for those who happen to have a different political philosophy. In the words of the Speaker of the House of Commons, the quality of political discourse must change. But social media, which is uncensored and unregulated, is also partly to blame as a breeding ground for the vilification of others, including hate, abuse, half-truths and extremism – and those concerned get away with it because they can remain anonymous. It seems to me that here in The Bahamas, where political exchanges are robust though less confrontational, the potential threat to MPs in a smaller society where people know one another is altogether different. But democracy can be a fragile political system and always needs to be protected. Despite its flaws, it remains the best form of government available – most importantly, freedom of expression and the right to challenge authority under the protection of the rule of law.
CORAL Vita founders Gator Halpern and Sam Teicher. Coral Vita’s award was for its innovative approach to coral farming by growing coral on land and then replanting it in the ocean where it can grow 50 times faster than using traditional methods and that improves coral resilience to the impact of climate change. Its goal is said to be to establish a global network of coral farms to grow a billion corals annually. Interestingly, Coral Vita’s founder, Sam Teicher, is quoted as saying that “winning the Earthshot Prize is a win for the ocean and jumpstarts scaling our impact from The Bahamas around the world. We ultimately envision massive coral farms in every
the world’s response to a changing climate and global warming requires comprehensive and integrated strategies and action addressing social
nation with reefs, working side-byside with communities, scientists, students, NGOs, governments and the private sector”. The prize will enable Coral Vita to accelerate its establishment of a global network of coral farms which will include sharing the latest technology as well as developing funding models to make coral restoration more financially viable. What terrific news all this is, and no doubt it will soon be given wide publicity. Meanwhile, Coral Vita surely deserves everybody’s congratulations for its splendid achievement of winning the illustrious first-ever Earthshot Prize.
and economic problems as well as environmental ones. UN Member States have overwhelmingly accepted the importance of tackling global warming first as a
priority, and all will surely hope COP26 will live up to its billing and produce meaningful results – as The Queen has said, not just fine words but action!
Public Notice Lighthouse Point
The public is advised that the Construction Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for Disney Cruise Line’s project at Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera, The Bahamas, is now available for review. The EMP has been submitted to the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) and reviewed by DEPP and third-party international firm Black & Veatch, under DEPP’s direction. The development, a Cruise Ship Destination, will include an open-trestle pier and marina that don’t require dredging, open-air buildings and other structures, walking paths, a new public roadway, service roads, and back-of-house support areas. The development will utilize 16% of the 758-acre site, with Disney donating 25% of the site to the people and Government of The Bahamas. Bahamian residents and citizens will have access to the site. Information about the project and a downloadable version of the EMP are available at http://www.lighthousepointbahamas.com. The EMP is available to the public for review at DEPP offices in Nassau and the Eleuthera Administrator’s Office in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, during normal business hours. The public is invited to send written comments to
inquiries@depp.gov.bs no later than 14 days after the public posting of the EMP or October 28, 2021, by 5:00pm.
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Jury selection begins in trial over Ahmaud Arbery’s death BRUNSWICK, Georgia Associated Press AS JURY selection got slowly underway yesterday in the trial of three white men charged with fatally shooting Ahmaud Arbery as he was running in their Georgia neighborhood, potential jurors said they came in with negative feelings about the case and worried about the personal consequences of serving on the jury. The slaying of the 25-year-old Black man sparked a national outcry fueled by graphic video of the shooting leaked online more than two months after Arbery was killed. Father and son Greg and Travis McMichael and their neighbor William “Roddie” Bryan are charged with murder and other crimes in Arbery’s death on February 23, 2020, just outside the port city of Brunswick. With hundreds called, jury selection could last two
IN this February 23, 2021, photo, Ahmaud Arbery’s father, Marcus Arbery, bottom centre, listens to Jason Vaughn speak during a memorial walk and candlelight vigil for Ahmaud at the Satilla Shores development in Brunswick, Georgia. Photo: Stephen B Morton/AP weeks or more. Arbery’s father said he was praying for an impartial panel and a fair trial, saying Black crime victims too often have been denied justice. “This is 2021, and it’s
time for a change,” Marcus Arbery Sr told The Associated Press. “We need to be treated equally and get fair justice as human beings, because we’ve been treated wrong so long.”
The first panel of 20 jurors was sworn in and questioned yesterday afternoon. Arbery’s killing stoked outrage during a period of national protests over
racial injustice. More than two months passed before the McMichaels and Bryan were charged and jailed — only after the video leaked online and state investigators took over the case. Prosecutors say Arbery was merely jogging when the McMichaels grabbed guns and chased him in a pickup truck. Bryan joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded the now-infamous cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery three times at close range with a shotgun. Defence attorneys insist the three men committed no crimes. Greg McMichael told police they believed Arbery was a burglar after security cameras previously recorded him entering a nearby home under construction. He said Travis McMichael fired in selfdefense after Arbery punched him and tried to grab his weapon. Investigators have testified that they found no
evidence of crimes by Arbery, who was unarmed, in the Satilla Shores subdivision. As a precaution against the coronavirus, 600 jury pool members were ordered to report to a gymnasium to provide room for social distancing. They were summoned to the courthouse in groups of 20, Glynn County Superior Court Clerk Ronald Adams said. Ultimately, 12 jurors will be seated plus four alternates to fill in for any jurors who get sick or are dismissed before the trial ends. The judge dismissed eight total potential jurors before adjourning yesterday evening. Four others were individually interviewed but no final decision was made on their status. Jury selection was to resume Tuesday morning. Once a jury is seated, the trial itself could take more than two weeks, Adams said.
General and diplomat Colin Powell dies of COVID complications WASHINGTON Associated Press COLIN Powell, the trailblazing soldier and diplomat whose sterling reputation of service to Republican and Democratic presidents was stained by his faulty claims to justify the 2003 US war in Iraq, died yesterday of COVID-19 complications. He was 84. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Powell spent 35 years in the Army and rose to the rank of four-star general before becoming the first Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His oversight of the US invasion of Kuwait to oust the Iraqi army in 1991 made him a household name, prompting speculation for nearly a decade that he might run for president, a course he ultimately decided against. Powell instead joined George W Bush’s administration in 2001 as secretary of state, the first Black person to represent the US government on the world stage. His tenure, however, was marred by his 2003 address to the UN Security Council in which he cited faulty information to claim that Saddam Hussein had secretly stashed weapons of mass destruction. Such weapons never materialised, and though the Iraqi leader was removed, the war devolved into years of military and humanitarian losses. In announcing Powell’s death, his family said he had been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. Peggy Cifrino, Powell’s longtime aide, said he had also been treated over the past few years for multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that impairs the body’s ability to fight infection. Studies have shown that those cancer patients don’t get as much protection from the COVID19 vaccines as healthier people. At the White House, President Joe Biden said Powell “embodied the highest ideals of both warrior and diplomat”. Noting Powell’s rise from a childhood in a fraying New York City neighborhood, Biden said, “He believed in the promise of America because he lived it. And he devoted much of his life to making that promise a reality for so many others.” Flags were ordered lowered at government buildings, including the White House, Pentagon and State Department. Powell’s time as secretary of state was largely defined by the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. He was the first American official to publicly blame Osama bin Laden’s al-Qaida network. He made a lightning trip to Pakistan to demand that then-Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf cooperate with the United States in going after the Afghanistanbased group, which also had a presence in Pakistan, where bin Laden was later killed. But as Washington’s push for war in Iraq
deepened, Powell sometimes found himself at odds with other key figures in the Bush administration, including Vice President Dick Cheney and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. Rumsfeld also died this year. Powell’s State Department was dubious of the military and intelligence communities’ conviction that Saddam possessed or was developing weapons of mass destruction. But he presented the administration’s case that Saddam posed a major regional and global threat in a strong speech to the UN Security Council in February 2003. The following month, Bush gave the goahead for the invasion. The UN speech, replete with Powell’s display of a vial of what he said could have been a biological weapon, was seen as a low point in his career, although he had removed some elements from the remarks that he deemed to have been based on poor intelligence assessments. The US overthrow of Saddam ended the rule of a brutal dictator. But the power vacuum and lawlessness that followed unleashed years of sectarian fighting and chaos that killed countless Iraqi civilians, sparked a lengthy insurgency, and unintentionally tilted the balance of power in the Middle East toward a US rival, Iran. No Iraqi weapons of mass destruction were ever found. Still, Powell maintained in a 2012 interview with The Associated Press that on balance, the US succeeded in Iraq. “I think we had a lot of successes,” he said. “Iraq’s terrible dictator is gone.” Saddam was captured by US forces while hiding out in northern Iraq in December 2003 and later executed by the Iraqi government. But the war dragged on. President Barack Obama pulled US troops out of Iraq in 2011, but he sent advisers back in 2014 after the Islamic State group swept into the country from Syria and captured large swaths of territory. Bush said yesterday that he and former first lady Laura Bush were “deeply saddened” by Powell’s death. “He was a great public servant” and “widely respected at home and abroad,” Bush said. “And most important, Colin was a family man and a friend. Laura and I send Alma and their children our sincere condolences as they remember the life of a great man.” Condoleezza Rice, Powell’s successor at State and the department’s first Black female secretary, praised him as “a trusted colleague and a dear friend through some very challenging times.” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, a retired Army general and the first Black Pentagon chief, said the news of Powell’s death left “a hole in my heart”.
LA COUNTY WANTS KOBE’S WIDOW TO PHOTOGRAPHS CAUSED DISTRESS LOS ANGELES Associated Press
LOS ANGELES County is seeking to compel psychiatric evaluations for Kobe Bryant’s widow and others to determine if they truly suffered emotional distress after first responders took and shared graphic photos from the site of the 2020 helicopter crash that killed the basketball star, his teenage daughter and seven others, court documents say. Vanessa Bryant, whose federal lawsuit against the county alleges invasion of privacy, has claimed in court
VANESSA Bryant pictured in February 24, 2020, at a celebration of life for her husband, Kobe Bryant, and daughter Gianna in Los Angeles. papers that she has experienced “severe emotional distress” that has compounded the trauma of losing
her husband and 13-year-old daughter, Gianna. Kobe Bryant and the others were killed on January 26, 2020, when the helicopter they were aboard, on their way to a girls basketball tournament, crashed in the hills west of Los Angeles amid foggy weather. Federal safety officials blamed pilot error for the wreck. Vanessa Bryant’s lawsuit contends first responders, including firefighters and sheriff’s deputies, shared photographs of Kobe Bryant’s body with a bartender and passed around
“gratuitous photos of the dead children, parents and coaches.” The Los Angeles Times first reported that a sheriff’s department internal investigation found deputies shared photos of victims’ remains. None of the first responders were directly involved in the investigation of the crash or had any legitimate purpose in taking or passing around the grisly photos, the suit contends. Gov Gavin Newsom last year approved legislation prompted by the helicopter crash that makes it a crime for first responders to
take unauthorised photos of deceased people at the scene of an accident or crime. “Ms Bryant feels ill at the thought of strangers gawking at images of her deceased husband and child, and she lives in fear that she or her children will one day confront horrific images of their loved ones online,” court documents say. Attorneys for Los Angeles County want the court to order Bryant and other family members of the people who were killed in the crash,
including children, to undergo psychiatric evaluations as independent medical examinations. The lawyers propose that the evaluations be audioand video-recorded and last eight hours for adults and four to six hours for children. The county contends that while the families “have undoubtedly suffered severe distress and trauma from the crash and resulting loss of their loved ones, their distress was not caused by (the first responders) or any accident site photos that were never publicly disseminated”.
SPORTS PAGE 13
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2021
THREE BAHAMIAN PLAYERS SET FOR THEIR NBA SEASON DEBUTS ON WEDNESDAY
MINISTER of Youth, Sports & Culture Mario Bowleg (centre) speaking yesterday. PHOTO: Racardo Thomas
By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net THE 2021-22 NBA season officially tips off tonight in major cities across the United States but all three Bahamian players will make their season debuts on Wednesday night, hoping to open the regular season on a positive note. Deandre Ayton and the defending Western Conference champion Phoenix Suns will host the Denver Nuggets in their regular season opener at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Scheduled for 10pm local time and broadcast live on ESPN, it will be the first of the franchise’s record 34 nationally televised games this season, an increase from 13 last season. In the preseason, Ayton averaged 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds in just over 17 minutes per game. He shot 54 percent, from the floor and also posted a pair of double doubles. Buddy Hield (pictured) and the Sacramento Kings will begin the regular season on the road tomorrow night against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Hield averaged 23.2 minutes per game in the preseason and produced 12.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists, per game on 31 percent from the field and 29 percent from three point range. Kai Jones and the Charlotte Hornets will open the regular season with a 7pm tipoff at home when they host the Indiana Pacers at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North, Carolina. In four preseason games, Jones appeared in just over 11.1 minutes per contest and averaged 3.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game on 33 percent shooting. Ayton and Hield will face each other four times as Pacific Division rivals in the Western Conference while Jones, playing out of the Eastern Conference, will square off against both Hield and Ayton twice over the course of the regular season. The Suns will host the first of the four meetings against the Kings, October 27 at Footprint Center in Phoenix Arizona. The Kings will host the second matchup, November 8, as the venue shifts to the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. Sacramento will also host game three on Sunday, March 20 and the Suns will host the final regularseason meeting between the teams on April 10. Jones will have his first All-Bahamian matchup on November 5 when the Hornets will travel to Sacramento to face the Kings at the Golden 1 Center. The Hornets will then host the Kings at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina on December 10. The Hornets will travel to face the Suns at the Footprint Center on December 19 and will host the Suns at the SEE PAGE 14
NACAC sees opportunity for home in The Bahamas By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
MINISTER of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg welcomed the idea of having the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) establish their head office in The Bahamas, as long as resources are available. NACAC president Mike Sands and secretary general Keith Joseph pushed their case forth as they paid a courtesy call on Mr Bowleg at his office on Monday. Also in attendance were the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Eugene Poitier and Director of Sports Timothy Munnings. In thanking Mr Sands for providing the opportunity to meet Mr Joseph, Mr Bowleg said he is looking forward to a cordial working relationship with NACAC, as he will with other local and international bodies, during his tenure in office. “We do understand the importance of the relationship between the
NACAC president Mike Sands. government, its local federation and its international federation,” he said. “That is uttermost important and with that without the local and national federation, there is nothing much a government can do. “But your support is here from The Bahamas and again we look forward to the ideas and programmes that we could put in place that could help the development of athletics in The Bahamas and the improvement of athletics in The Bahamas and our
NACAC secretary general Keith Joseph. international competition level.” Mr Sands, in welcoming Mr Bowleg on board as the new minister, said he just returned from Jamaica with Mr Joseph where they engaged in a series of meetings with the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association and will be meeting with the Bahamas Associations of Athletic Association today. Having the opportunity to make the courtesy call during what he called Mr Bowleg’s
“honeymoon” as the new minister, Mr Joseph said it’s a pleasure to be in The Bahamas because NACAC is responsible for the development of track and field in the region. “The Bahamas has a very unique place within NACAC, in as far as the history and legacy of your participation in our sports,” he said. “It’s one that our entire area is proud of. We consider The Bahamas as equally important as the United States or Canada or Jamaica in the development of sports and in your achievements. “When we compare the achievements of Bahamian athletes relative to population size, then you recognise that the achievement of your athletes is monumental and critical for the people of The Bahamas and, certainly, we would like to see that continue.” And with Mr Sands as the president of NACAC, Mr Joseph said this is the opportunity for more collaboration, to enhance the relationship, broaden horizons and collectively bolster the sport for
the Americas. “Your proximity to the USA as a gateway to The Bahamas and your proximity and strategic location, relative to the members of NACAC, allows us in practical terms, the possibility of establishing a home for NACAC, a headquarters for NACAC,” Joseph said. “We’ve never had a home. The principle has always been that we move wherever the president is located. That has its own limitations. And we believe that with the strong athletic culture that this country has and the fact that you do have the president of the organisation here, it might be an important opportunity for us to consider in real terms, the establishment finally of a home for NACAC, regardless of who presides over it in the future, but certainly now seems the most opportune time.” Mr Bowleg said the Progressive Liberal Party, under Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, is preparing to relaunch the phrase they
SEE PAGE 14
‘GOOD TOURNAMENT’ FOR BAIN AND RAMIREZ DESPITE FINAL DEFEAT By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net BAHAMIAN freshman Jacobi Bain and his Xavier University of Louisiana senior teammate Juan Ramirez gave it their best shot, only to fall short in the final of the men’s doubles at the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Cup Championships in Rome, Georgia on Saturday. “The tournament was good,” Bain told The Tribune. “It was a pretty good experience. We lost to the number one team in the country. Although we lost, it was still a pretty good tournament for us.” On their way to the final, Bain and Ramirez out-duelled the second-seeded team of Daniel Czepieleski and Federico Bonacia of Georgia Gwinnett in a marathon 6-2, 4-6, 1-0 (10-2) decision on Friday. “In our semi-final match, my partner hyper extended his knee, so we were able to get through that match,” Bain said. “In the final, we were doing pretty well. We just lost a couple of big points that made the difference.” In just his first year on the collegiate scene, the 18-year-old Bain said there were so many positive aspects that he will take away from playing in the tournament, which he hopes will inspire him as he prepares for the future. “I just have to be a little more active in putting away more volleys
TEAMMATES Juan Ramirez and Jacobi Bain. Photo by Abi Pascual at the net,” Bain said. “We had a couple of opportunities to put away more balls at the net, which ended up in us losing a couple of big games or a couple of big points.” Bain and Ramirez had qualified for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) at-large spot in the tournament at the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College. Formerly known as the Small College Nationals, the ITA Cup, established in 1986, is the only singles and doubles national championship event for the Division II
and NAIA levels. “We took out the number two seeds, so we were playing some great doubles,” Bain said. That concludes their tournaments for this year, but Bain said it will certainly be the impetus for him as he moves onto the completion of his freshman year next year. “It was a great way to start my freshman year,” he said. “I had three tournaments this year, was a co-champion in singles and won doubles (at the HBCU National Championships) in September, went to the (NAIA Gulf ITA)
regionals (at the beginning of October) and lost in the finals in doubles and then got to the nationals and lost in doubles, so it’s a good way to start my year.” As for the Gold Rush team, Bain said he couldn’t ask for a better group of players, coached by Alan Green. “I think we have a great team going into next year, so we should do pretty well,” summed up Bain, a former player at Albany Tennis Academy and a student of Windsor School in the Bahamas.
PAGE 14, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
GIBSON LEADS HUSKIES TO TWO VICTORIES By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net
QYEMAH Gibson has emerged as an offensive leader for the St. Mary’s Huskies this preseason and has set the tone for lofty expectations in the 2021 campaign. The third year forward led the Huskies to a pair of wins over the weekend. In a 80-70 win over the University of Prince Edward Island Panthers on October 16, Gibson finished with a team high 20 points and six rebounds in the preseason finale. He shot 8-14 from the field, including 3-8 from three point range. The following night, Gibson led the Huskies to a 69-61 win over the University of New Brunswick Reds. He finished with 17 points, eight rebounds and two blocked shots. Gibson opened the preseason with 15 points and six rebounds in a 100-92 win at Acadia University. St. Mary’s went 1-2 after a 92-71 tournament opening win over Acadia. In a 93-90 win over St. FX, Gibson finished with 11 points (3-8 on three pointers) and seven rebounds. In an 83-69 loss to the Memorial Seahawks, he followed with 16 points and seven rebounds. Gibson helped lead the Huskies to an 11-9 record last year. In his second year with the Huskies, he started all 20 contests and played just over 31 minutes per game He led the team in scoring and was seventh in the league at 15.4 points per game. He was also eighth in rebounding at 6.5 rebounds per game. In his first year with the programme, he averaged 5.9 points in just over 10 minutes per game as a reserve. Gibson was named a Second Team AUS Tournament All-Star. The 2021-22 AUS regular season is set to begin Friday, October 29. The Huskies will travel to face the Acadia Axemen. The fall semester play will wrap up Sunday, November 28. Regular season play resumes Friday, January 7 for the winter semester. The regular season concludes Saturday, February 19.
NACAC MEETING FROM PAGE 13
coined in their last administration under Perry Christie, “Sports in Paradise”. “Athletics has been one of those sporting disciplines that has really placed this country on a level above all, as it relates to being represented at the Olympic level,” he stated. “Once NACAC is able to come and provide us with the information or a blueprint, similar to what is used by Canada. In order for us to succeed in the Caribbean, we must use blueprints by those who have gone before us in order for us to make a positive impact on the various disciplines in sports inside the Caribbean.” Mr Bowleg said any information that NACAC can provide the government and his ministry to help put plans in place that can have a positive impact would be welcomed. He added that they would also welcome ideas to rise to the next level and host major international events. With The Bahamas coming off the gold medal performances from Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner in the women and men’s 400 metres at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Mr Joseph said it bodes well for the future of athletics in the country and the level of sports tourism around the world. “We’ve seen other countries do it. We’ve had Canada do it, for example, having been the first country in the world to host all of the World Championships, offered by our international federation (World Athletics),” Mr Joseph pointed out. “I think the time has come for us in the Caribbean to take seriously the possibilities that sports tourism holds. “Most of us are in tourism anyway, but we don’t necessarily see the focus of sports as a major income earner in tourism. “I think the time has come for that.”
LOS Angeles Lakers centre Dwight Howard (39) guards Phoenix Suns centre Deandre Ayton (22) in a recent preseason game in Los Angeles. (AP Photo:John McCoy)
Ayton and Suns contract negotiations reach impasse By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net CONTRACT negotiations between Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns have reached an impasse. ESPN first reported that Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns failed to reach an agreement on a rookie contract extension by yesterday’s deadline. The No.1 pick in the 2018 Draft can enter restricted free agency next summer. Ayton, 23, is eligible for a five-year, $172.5 million extension that could reach as much as $207 million if he reaches benchmarks and incentives. This offseason, the Suns have reached extensions with veteran point guard Chris Paul - a four year deal
worth up to $120 million; Ayton’s fellow 2018 draftee Mikal Bridges - a four year deal worth up to $90 million and newly acquired guard Landry Shamet - a four year deal worth $43 million. Without a deal in place, Ayton can become a restricted free agency next summer and can sign an offer sheet with another franchise. The Suns would still have the ability to match the deal and retain his right. Ayton also has the option of playing next season under a one year qualifier and become an unrestricted free agent the following season in 2022-23. Several players in Ayton’s 2018 NBA draft class have received max contract extensions including Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks, Luka Doncic of
the Dallas Mavericks, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Jaren Jackson Jr of the Memphis Grizzlies, Kevin Huerter of the Atlanta Hawks, Michael Porter Jr of the Denver Nuggets. “We were two wins away from a championship,” Ayton said following a practice session last week, “And I just really want to be respected to be honest, like my peers are being respected by their teams.” TMZ Sports first reported that Ayton and Suns owner Robert Sarver met at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort in Phoenix last week as negotiation talks ramped up. “The relationships I have on this team will never change regardless of whatever the outcome is,” Ayton
said, “At the same time you have to come in and work, there’s a job to be done and it’s to win games. With the team we have there’s a goal and task at hand.” The defending Western Conference champions, the Suns had a 17 game improvement from 34-39 in the 2019-20 season to 51-21 in 2020-21. Ayton’s personal development coincided with the team’s rise in the standings. He appeared in 69 of the Suns’ 72 games in the regular season and averaged a double double for the second consecutive campaign - 14.4 points and 10.5 rebounds per game. Ayton’s memorable 2021 postseason included averages of 15.8 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. He shot 65 percent from the field
and finished with 14 double doubles. According to StatMuse, Ayton is the first player in NBA history to average at least 15 points and 10 rebounds per game on 65 percent field goal shooting in a single playoffs (minimum of 10 games). In the Finals, Ayton averaged 14.7 points, 12 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game on 54 percent shooting from the field. He posted 22 points and 19 rebounds in his NBA Finals debut and followed with 10 points and 11 rebounds in game two - both wins for the Suns. He followed with 18 points and nine rebounds in a game three loss, six points and 17 rebounds in game four and finally 20 points and 10 rebounds in game five.
THREE BAHAMIAN PLAYERS SET FOR THEIR NBA SEASON DEBUTS ON WEDNESDAY
CHARLOTTE Hornets’ Kai Jones.
FROM PAGE 13 Spectrum Center on January 2. This year the Suns will play on ESPN 11 times, TNT nine times, ABC three times, and NBATV 11 times. Their 34 nationally televised games rank fifth in the league. Charlotte will have four nationally televised games this season,
up from three last year. They will also be featured in four games broadcast on NBA TV. The Kings are one of just four teams this season without a single nationally televised game. The Suns finished last season 51-21 en route to their first Pacific Division title for the first time in 14 years. They also earned a postseason berth in 11 years and their first NBA Finals
in 28 years. The Kings finished the 202021 season 31-41, the franchise’s 15th consecutive season without a playoff berth which tied an NBA record. The Hornets finished last season 33-39, 10th place in the Eastern Conference, an improvement on their 23-42 finish in the previous season.
VIEIRA’S RETURN NEARLY HAUNTS ARSENAL IN DRAW WITH PALACE By FRANK GRIFFITHS ASSOCIATED PRESS
LONDON (AP) — Arsenal fans were nearly haunted by the return of club hero Patrick Vieira. Vieira was back this time as Crystal Palace manager and his team was just about to beat the Gunners at Emirates Stadium. But Arsenal substitute Alexandre Lacazette made sure that wouldn’t happen. He scored a dramatic late equaliser and the match finished 2-2 in the English Premier League on Monday. The visitors were leading deep into injury time before Lacazette managed to turn home a rebound in the fifth minute of added time. The forward ran over to celebrate with Arsenal fans. Vieira’s return to the club where he brought glory to Arsenal as captain ended in misery, with the Frenchman crouching down and pounding the turf.
CRYSTAL Palace’s head coach Patrick Vieira. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Vieira was appointed manager of Crystal Palace in July and he has tried to bring attacking football to the club. But, so far, Palace has won only once out of eight matches despite impressing with his expansive approach and the team’s pressing. “It’s not good enough to play well,” Vieira said. “We want to win football
matches. I want to win football matches.” Palace came from behind to score twice in the second half after Arsenal took the lead through captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the eighth minute. Vieira wouldn’t have been impressed by the Arsenal defensive midfielders playing in his former position, Thomas Partey and substitute Albert Sambi Lokonga, whose mistakes led to both Palace goals. Partey first lost possession cheaply in the 50th minute when striker Jordan Ayew stripped him of the ball. Palace striker Christian Benteke collected and cut inside before smashing past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. Then it was Lokonga’s turn to lose the ball, which eventually made its way to Odsonne Edouard. The Palace forward calmly stroked the ball home. “It was a strange game,” Arsenal manager Mikel
Arteta said. “We dominated in the beginning. We deserved the goal and after that we lacked composure, belief and maturity. We gave a lot of balls away.” The result meant Arsenal was in 12th place in the table, and Palace 14th. Vieira’s spirit and desire to win enamoured him with Arsenal fans during his spell at the club. The home supporters serenaded him in appreciation before and after the match. “It was really nice,” he said. “I thank the Arsenal fans for the reception.” But Vieira, while happy to receive chants in his name, was clearly here to win. “We have to learn from the games we played previously,” he said. “I’m really disappointed because the players deserved to win the game. I’m really frustrated. We’re learning in a really harsh way.” Vieira signed a contract until 2024 as the
replacement for Roy Hodgson, who stepped down at the end of last season after four years in charge of the south London club. As a player, Vieira was best known at club level for his nine seasons with Arsenal under Arsene Wenger from 1996-2005. He helped the team win three Premier League titles, including captaining “The Invincibles” in an unprecedented unbeaten league campaign in 200304. Vieira also won four FA Cups with Arsenal. He was a solid presence as a towering box-to-box midfielder, who protected the back line but also propelled forward to boost Arsenal’s attack. When he and other key players started departing the club, Arsenal’s glory days soon became a thing of the past. The Gunners have struggled to find a dominating midfielder in his mold and haven’t won the league since that famous title in 2004.
PAGE 16, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
GB POWER IN 25-YEAR EAST, WEST EXTENSION
FROM PAGE 22
End supply agreements contained a potential obstacle for rival electricity suppliers seeking to breakup GB Power’s monopoly. For they contained language that seemingly gave the utility a “right of first refusal” on any renewal to the exclusion, or lock-out, of all competitors. For both agreements give GB Power an option to renew for a further 25 years, “upon the same terms and conditions”, provided it gave notice of its intention to do so to the Government some 60 days before the existing deals expire. This seemingly put the decision on whether there would be an extension in GB Power’s hands, not the Government’s. Kwasi Thompson, exminister of state for Grand Bahama, yesterday said he was unable to recall what happened with the East and West End electricity
supply agreements during the Minnis administration’s term in office. He added that the Attorney General’s Office had been asked to review the matter and give a legal opinion, although the precise issues being assessed were not disclosed. Carl Bethel QC, the former attorney general, could not be reached for comment. “I do not recall what happened,” Mr Thompson said. “The Attorney General at the time had reviewed the matter and gave a legal opinion on it. Whatever that legal opinion was, I don’t remember. If I’m not mistaken the Attorney General’s Office communicated directly with the Power Company on it.” GB Power, then Freeport Power, agreed to expand beyond the Port area in 1993 to meet the thenIngraham administration’s desire for the electrification of East and West End. Tribune Business later obtained
EMERA INCORPORATED (“Emera”) Notice to Holders of Depositary Receipts DIVIDEND NOTICE A dividend of CAD $0.159375 per Emera depositary receipt (CAD $0.6625 per common share of Emera) will be payable on or after November 15, 2021 to depositary receipt holders of record as at November 1, 2021. Dividends will be subject to applicable withholding tax.
HELP WANTED RETAIL STORE MANAGER A successful retail business is looking to strengthen its team through the addition of a Retail Manager, responsible for all aspects of the daily operations of the business, based on the following requirements:
• • • • • • • • •
At least 5 years retail managerial experience Excellent communication skills Customer management skills Problem solver and results oriented Computer literate with strong POS systems skills Professional and well groomed Dynamic, energetic, disciplined and highly motivated Leadership skills Ability to motivate sales team through training and mentorship
Candidates who meet the above-mentioned requirements ON LY are invited to submit their resume to Bahamas.com@gmail.com.
SALES ASSOCIATE/CASHIER A successful retail business is looking to strengthen its team through the addition of a Sales Associate/Cashier, based on the following requirements:
• • • • • • •
25-40 years old At least 3 yrs experience in retail sales Provides outstanding customer service Able to operate cash registers and computer literate Assists with inventory A team player Well-groomed and punctual
Candidates who meet the above-mentioned requirements ON LY are invited to submit their resume to Bahamas.com@gmail.com.
copies of the two 25-year agreements, one dated June 23, 1993, and the other August 31, 1993, that effectively gave it a 25-year monopoly on Grand Bahama’s energy market. Using virtually identical terms, the agreements gave GB Power “the sole right” to supply electricity outside the Port area. And it was granted similar tax breaks as those enjoyed within Freeport, including exemptions from Customs duty, Stamp Duty and Business Licence fees, along with the use of so-called ‘bonded’ goods without penalty. Pastor Victor, who has been extremely vocal in his support for a $30m proposal by Northern Bahamas Utilities (NBU), a wholly Bahamian-owned group, to take over power supply in both East and West End through the operation of two utility-scale solar plants billed as able to reduce electricity costs by up to 40 percent, yesterday
argued that his options are not exhausted. “It is sad to see that the Government went ahead and executed that agreement knowing there was a Bahamian company that could provide power to those governmentcontrolled areas,” he told Tribune Business. “As a Coalition, we will oppose it publicly. “We could look at it legally. The question that would arise is can the Government extend the agreement with the laws that were passed in the Electricity Act, which might prevent it from happening. According to the law, they must be regulated by URCA outside Freeport. If there is no URCA regulation, it violates the law.” GB Power is currently locked in a Supreme Court battle with the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) over whether the latter has the authority to regulate it
NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that WILFRID COLLIE of P.O. Box SP-61921, Sapodilla Boulevard, Pinewood Gardens, Nassau, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 19th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
within the Hawksbill Creek Agreement (HCA) area, and Pastor Victor added: “One of the things we have to look at by law is whether it is legal for them to provide power without URCA regulation. “That’s one aspect we could look at. The announcement [of the extension] was not made publicly. There was no public announcement that the agreement was renewed. There was no mention in Parliament that the agreement was renewed. Parliament should have been made aware that the agreement was renewed, especially something that was extended for 25 years. “As far as I’m concerned it’s a blow against Bahamians. The Government of The Bahamas has renewed a 25-year agreement with a foreign company over Bahamians, and that speaks volumes right there. It speaks volumes right there,” he continued. “It goes against Bahamianisation, it goes against efforts to bring down the electricity rates across The Bahamas, and speaks to the fact why the Government did not give us [Northern Bahamas Utilities] an opportunity for a full presentation. “They said they would give us an opportunity to present to Cabinet, and it never happened. Somebody has to stand up and deal with that. We’ll have to let our voices be heard.” GB Power is 100 percent owned by Canadian utility giant, Emera.
THE TRIBUNE
EXPORT AGENCY SEEKS ‘ORANGE ECONOMY’ LINK FROM PAGE 20
tourism-related services, and on the orange economy and creative sector.” CEDA is also promoting its grant facility, which opens on October 22 to companies from all countries in the Caribbean. This will allow any business within the Caribbean to apply for up to 40,000 euros in grant funding that will be paid in tranches to a successful applicant. The grant facility has been adjusted so that companies are no longer required to make the inputs in their business, then send receipts to CEDA in order to be reimbursed. It is felt that this deterred multiple Bahamian businesses from applying historically. “What we are doing is that this is a grant so they don’t have to pay it back. Secondly, we are doing tranches, where there will be a first tranche, a second and a third tranche. So there is no issue of them doing inputs in the first instance of what may have happened earlier,” said Mr Maharaj.
TO ADVERTISE TODAY IN THE TRIBUNE CALL @ 502-2394
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 17
EMBASSIES HIT BY 75% AUTO DELIVERY PLUMMET FROM PAGE 22 “People are taking a couple of months to get approval. What would previously have taken three to five weeks, in some instances we’re seeing it take two months to ten weeks. I think the banks are doing more due diligence because of the situation with so much unemployment and all that.” Mr Albury, meanwhile, told Tribune Business: “It’s going to be a rough ride I estimate from now to February next year. I would
normally go to the US and try and source stuff from there, but they are having the same issues we have, and used vehicles in the US have gone up about 25 percent. “With the supply situation it is going to be difficult to get new product right now. I’ve got some vehicles on special order for one of the embassies here, and we’re looking at somewhere in March/April next year for delivery before we get those vehicles. Those who have inventory will be
King of the Hill for the time being.” Mr Albury did not identify the embassy or diplomatic mission involved, but added: “Locally, this is going to impact government revenues and stuff like that. It’s not just us but also the Government with the import taxes. No product, no taxes. “I’ve had some requests from the Government for vehicles, and cannot supply them because I cannot get them from the brands. I never thought I’d see the day it came to this out
there. It’s like from one disaster to the next. When you get one thing cleared up, there’s something right behind it to deal with. It’s like the Boy Scouts’ motto, ‘Be prepared’.” The BMDA chief predicted that there was “unlikely” to be any significant year-over-year increase in new vehicle sales for 2021, although Tribune Business understands that raw data suggests there has been a rise of around 300 units compared to 2020 numbers for the nine months to end-September.
However, this remains well below sales achieved in 2019. “Based on what is happening, I don’t expect to see deals of any sorts, discounts, because dealers need every $1 of profit to keep their doors open,” Mr Albury said. “Don’t be surprised to see price increases across the board. “When we look at the cost of energy, raw materials, labour; all those things being factored into the picture spell price increases on product. I’m going to ball park the increase at
FARMERS ‘FRUSTRATED’ BY RAMPANT RED TAPE FROM PAGE 22 90 days down the road for it to sprout. Everything grown rotationally is time sensitive. “I’m trying to get people at the Ministry of Agriculture to understand how time sensitive these matters are. You have to write to the Ministry of Agriculture to get permission to import certain items. They then have to write to the Ministry of Finance to approve those items, which takes two weeks. “Two weeks is not a long time for a person sitting
behind a desk, but for a farmer that is a long time. What I am saying to the Government is that we need to have a ‘farmer’s card’ attached to, and for use at, Customs.” Such a card, which could only be used by registered farmers identified as genuine industry participants, would be employed to facilitate the importation of raw materials and equipment without having to go through the current red tape and delays caused by dealing with multiple ministries.
“They’re already in the system, and would be able to say they are a registered farmer who has been farming for five, ten, 15 years and need to bring in these items,” Ms Shepherd explained of how the card would function. “You do not have to write to the Ministry of Agriculture and then go to the Ministry of Finance because it is going to sit on one person’s desk. We farmers are frustrated by having to write to the Ministry of Agriculture, write to the Ministry of Finance
for approval, and wait for it to be sent back.” Calling for farmers’ raw materials and production equipment to be made VAT-free, Ms Shepherd told this newspaper: “I have mentioned the need to invest at least $100m in bringing agriculture to the point where it will be sustainable and improve our development. “Once we’re able to inject at least $100m into agriculture, that gives us a jump start to produce quite an array of produce so we can move to the next level. It allows us to purchase raw
NOTICE
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that RONEL BRIZE of Malcolm Road, Nassau, The Bahamas P.O. Box N-10600, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
NOTICE is hereby given that DIENIE JEAN LOUIS of Step Street, Fox Hil, Nassau, The Bahamas P.O. Box N-10600, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
seeds, what we need to hire people and let people be hired.” She added, though, that this financing was not reliant on a hand-out or subvention from the Government. “I’m not saying we need all this from the Government,” Ms Shepherd said. “We have persons out there interested in investing in the farmers. There’s a lot of talk on the table that has not yet materialised.” Declining to fully disclose her financing plans, she indicated one option could be an initial public offering (IPO) type raise involving
5 percent. To give you an example, when we bring in a container of tyres from either China or Taiwan, we were previously paying $6,000 for a 40-foot container. The last one came in at $12,000. “It’s getting higher and higher, and I’m hearing that in the US it’s like $25,000$30,000. Be it food or whatever, there’s product shortages across the board. People are going to have difficulty putting food on the table, and I think this will last well into the middle of 2022.” the Bahamian public. “The $100m, we know how we’re going to raise that,” Ms Shepherd said. “We don’t need the Government to give us $100m, we just need all the red tape to be cut out for us to do what we need to do. “We know how we’re going to do that. We want to be able to bring it to the public. We don’t want large investors. We want to be able to go to the small man and let the small man participate in the growth of agriculture development. We don’t want someone to come in with $100m. We want people to participate, and be participants in the industry.”
PUBLIC NOTICE
INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, BRENDAMAE BULLARD AKA BRENDA MAE HOLBERT AKA BRENDA MAE DENISE BULLARS AKA BRENDAMAE D. BULLARD of Blue Hill Estates, Nassau, The Bahamas, intend to change my name to BRENDA MAE DENISE BULLARD. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O.Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.
PUBLIC NOTICE
INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, JANELL HART of Elizabeth Estates, Nassau, Bahamas. Mother of JOHN EVANS III A minor intend to change my child’s name to JORDAN HARTIf there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Deputy Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.
NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that JOHNSON FLEURIMOND of Mount Royal, Wulf Road, Nassau, The Bahamas P.O. Box N2467, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau,
NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that LASHONNA ESTIN GLASS of Carmichael Road, Nassau, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that JOHANNE SULLY BRIZE of Malcolm Road, Nassau, The Bahamas P.O. Box N-10600, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of October, 2021 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
PAGE 18, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
BANK LOSS LEAVES FAMILY ISLANDS ‘OUT OF ECONOMY’ FROM PAGE 22 that we’re open for business and attract investment if we cannot do basic, functional commercial banking.” Pedro Rolle said the Chamber’s preference was for the Government to help encourage additional commercial banking presence on Exuma. He added that this did not necessarily have to be Bank of The Bahamas, in which the Government collective holds an 82 percent-plus stake through the Public Treasury and National Insurance Board (NIB), but any of the other Bahamianowned banks. The Exuma Chamber headed added that the physical presence of a Commonwealth Bank or Fidelity Bank (Bahamas)
would bring “greater stability” than one of the Canadian-owned banks, while suggesting that a credit union or co-operative society was a potential solution, too. He was backed by Roderick Simms, former head of The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) Family Island division, who told Tribune Business that many islands were “being left out of the Bahamian economy” as a result of bank branch closures. With multiple islands, especially in the southern Bahamas, now lacking a physical branch presence, Mr Simms said: “It’s been devastating. The bank was a conduit for persons to pay their vendors or transfer funds to loved ones or
receive funds from loved ones in Nassau and other islands. “That has been disrupted, and has negatively impacted commerce on the islands. Persons who banked locally on the islands, their accounts have been transferred to Nassau. So now it’s difficult to receive funds. We cannot go on as if persons and economies on the Family Islands do not exist. We’re leaving them out of the economy of The Bahamas.” John Rolle, in his presentation to the Abaco Business Outlook conference last week, revealed that the number of commercial bank branches in The Bahamas has declined by almost 30 percent over the past seven years.
PRIMARY TEACHING JOB OPPORTUNITY Temporary full time Primary Art Teacher needed A pre-eminent, well-established, independent, international school in Nassau is seeking a temporary full-time qualified ART TEACHER for employment between 25th October and the 10th December (with possible further). Candidates should have sound classroom experience; a passion for art and innovative education; a professional attitude towards work; a friendly and cooperative disposition; a willingness to work in a team environment; experience of online and in class teaching; a determination to grow professionally; and strong communication & organisational skills. The successful candidate will be required to: • Prepare and deliver well-planned learning experiences and curricula for learners aged 3 to 11 • Differentiate curriculum objectives to support a diverse range of learners • Show consistent, compassionate, classroom management skills • Assess student learning and produce detailed reports • Use learning data to inform and adapt instruction • Contribute to the co-curricular programme and whole-school activities in a committed and enthusiastic manner • Maintain high standards of professionalism • Communicate positively with parents, staff, and administration Please forward your resume and introduction letter by email to teachingbahamas@gmail.com.
Data showed the scale of the commercial banking industry’s retreat from physical presence operations, with branch numbers declining from 86 in 2014 (and 88 in 2008) to just 61 presently - a reduction of some 25 locations. The decline was more pronounced in Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, where there was an-almost 40 percent falloff in bank branch locations from 38 in 2014 to 23 at the current time. As for New Providence, bank locations dropped by just over 20 percent or ten over the same period to reach 38. The branch network shrinkage has largely been driven by the commercial banks - especially those that are Canadian-owned seeking to exit unprofitable, costly island markets that they deem too small and expensive to maintain amid the push for Bahamians to increasingly use digital banking channels. However, Mr Simms argued that the figures unveiled by the Central Bank’s governor were “a cause for concern that should be a fed flag” for the regulator to address, via talks with the Government
and private sector, on how best to fill the void created by the commercial bank exists. Some institutions had left Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) as a substitute for physical branch presence, he added, while many residents had also relied on the web shops to transfer monies. Yet Mr Simms argued that none of these mechanisms was an adequate replacement for what had gone before. “It’s incumbent on the Government to find a solution because there are a number of persons on those islands that need to conduct transactions and keep money safe,” he told Tribune Business. “Where are they keeping money? Under the mattress? In a hole? “Persons who are conducting business and wiring funds to vendors to import inventory, they have to find other mechanisms, whether a person comes to Nassau and deposits funds or they pay online. It’s very risky, it’s very dangerous to transfer funds physically. When travelling, you cause people to become a target.” Then there is the cost associated with travelling
to Nassau, usually several hundred dollars per round trip flight from the Family Islands, and the infrequent service - especially from the southern Bahamas. While electronic payments providers such as Sun Cash, Omni Financial Services and Island Pay have been eyed as the replacement for physical bank branches, Mr Simms argued that they would likely focus on the more populated Family Islands and ignore those in the southern Bahamas. And he suggested that the Sand Dollar, the Central Bank-backed digital currency, would have minimal impact as consumers were likely to grow tired of swapping between fiat and electronic money. “Although COVID-19 fast-forwarded us into the digital era, we’re still a cashbased society,” Mr Simms said. “Digital is something that will take time to catch on in Nassau, let alone the Family Islands.” Many of the latter’s population, he added, were elderly and used to traditional forms of banking. Pedro Rolle, meanwhile, said it was “very frustrating” to have to rely on ATMs for banking services. “It’s very impersonal, and I think it’s a little insulting. That’s our position, and it’s a nuisance for us,” he added. “It’s a little jarring. Certain things you never get used to. It’s like a tooth ache. It’s just there. We’ve got to solve this problem because it’s a vexing problem.” The Exuma Chamber chief argued that electronic payments providers would be unable to provide the full-range of deposit taking and other services required by companies, while the Sand Dollar was more suited for transactions between individuals than the corporate world.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 19
CORAL FARM CELEBRATES WIN WITH UK DIPLOMATS
PI ENTREPRENEUR CONFIDENT IN NEW GOV’T ON LEASE FIGHT FROM PAGE 22 Royal Caribbean has steadily amassed around 13.5 acres on Paradise Island’s western end by buying out private landowners in the area, but it is also seeking to lease some ten acres of crown land in the Colonial Beach area to complete its Royal Beach Club development as part of a total $110m investment
billed as creating $26m in annual local spend and 200 full-time jobs. This has brought it into potential conflict with Mr Smith, who is seeking himself to lease two crown land parcels at Paradise Island’s western end, one of which involves two acres around the lighthouse and another three acres for the “beach break” element of his own $2m project. Two of the
acres sought by Mr Smith are included in Royal Caribbean’s Crown Land lease. Mr Smith’s court action is alleging that he was granted a valid crown land lease over both parcels, including the lighthouse and the area at Colonial Beach for his “beach break” destination, which is now legally binding. The case is based on a January 7, 2020, letter from Richard Hardy, acting
PRIMARY TEACHING JOB OPPORTUNITY Second Grade Teacher
A well-established, independent primary school in Nassau is seeking a full-time qualified SECOND GRADE teacher for the end of October 2021. Candidates should have sound classroom experience, a passion for educating young minds, experience with Google classroom and virtual teaching, a professional attitude and work ethic, a friendly and cooperative disposition, a willingness to work in a team environment, and strong communication and organisational skills. The successful candidate will be required to: • Prepare, plan and deliver all lessons and curriculum both face to face and virtually • Show strong classroom management skills • Assess students and write detailed termly reports • Communicate positively with students, parents and colleagues. If you think you have the commitment, passion and energy for our school, please forward your resume, introduction letter and two references by email to
timetoteach242@gmail.com We look forward to hearing from you.
director of Lands and Surveys, that was headlined “approval for crown land lease” over the two tracts he wanted. The Government, or at least the former Minnis
administration, is disputing this. While Mr Smith’s former lead attorney on the matter, Wayne Munroe QC, is now a Cabinet minister and cannot work on the case, Mr Smith added:
UK diplomats joined Coral Vita as the Grand Bahama-based company became one of the first five winners of Prince William’s Earthshot prize. Pictured L to R are Sarah Dickson, UK High Commissioner; Sam Teicher, Coral Vita; Gator Halpern, Coral Vita; and Fiona Clouder, UK regional ambassador for the COP26 climate conference.
“We’ve got an expert legal team and it wasn’t just Mr Munroe. “I have confidence in this, and I have confidence in my expertly built team, and I am receiving the right advice and taking the appropriate action.”
PAGE 20, Tuesday, October 19, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
TOUR OPERATORS RENEW YACHT CHARTER TAX CALL By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMIAN excursion operators yesterday renewed their call for VAT and National Insurance Board (NIB) contributions to be levied on foreign yacht charters so that they pay a fairer share of taxes. Andoni Lisgaris, president of the Bahamas Excursion Operators Association (BEOA), told Tribune Business that the two sectors must be placed
on a level playing field when it came to taxation so that one did not enjoy a competitive advantage over the other. He added that he had spoken to Simon Wilson, the Ministry of Finance’s financial secretary, about the issue and argued that foreign yacht charters must pay the same taxes as Bahamian businesses. Mr Lisgaris said: “We brought this to the financial secretary’s attention because of the revenue potential in these foreign yachts that the Government can make money off. Even
if they are not going to try to protect our business, at least they should recognise that they are losing out on millions of dollars from these foreign yachts who are not paying the full potential of taxes.” The Association has previously complained about foreign yachts offering charter services in Bahamian waters that do not pay VAT, Port Department fees, National Insurance Board (NIB) contributions or Business License fees. It has argued that some foreign yachts make
upwards of $250,000 per day from a charter, well in excess of the $100,000 annual registration threshold required to pay Business License fees. Mr Lisgaris said: “We’re trying to spread the word as much as possible, but at least we are getting some form of acknowledgement. The amount business excursion operators are missing out on on a monthly basis can be well into the thousands of dollars. “What makes it difficult to quantify the exact cost
is the fact that these yacht owners may be having personal cruises in Bahamian waters on one trip, and then it suddenly turns into an excursion on their next trip. It’s hard to compete with something that is not on the same playing field as yourself.” Mr Lisgaris added: “If you go to a car dealership to buy a brand new car at $30,000, but a Bahamian who has to sell it to you has to pay taxes and, in order to make a profit, they have to sell it for $50,000, then who
do you expect consumers to go to? This is what we deal with on a daily basis, and until these foreign yachts pay they same taxes as we do it will never be fair. “I expect the Government to change the law on foreign yacht charters where they are not only liable to pay the 4 percent tax, but also liable to pay the 12 percent VAT as well, along with NIB and everything just like a Bahamian business, or decrease taxes on Bahamian businesses.”
Export agency seeks ‘orange economy’ link By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A CARIBBEAN export agency yesterday said it is seeking to partner with the Government to enable The Bahamas’ cultural and creative industries to fulfill their true economic potential. Deodat Maharaj, the Caribbean Export Development Agency’s (CEDA) executive director, told Tribune Business his organisation is focusing on the so-called “orange economy” as its top priority in The Bahamas. CEDA’s approach dovetails with the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) Blueprint for Change election manifesto, which emphasised the need to grown and monetise sectors in the orange economy such as the performing and visual arts. To further these objectives, Mr Maharaj said he yesterday met with Michael Halkitis, minister of economic affairs, to discuss how CEDA and the Government can work together to make the creative sectors
more lucrative for Bahamian businesses. He added: “I met with Mr Halkitis and we spoke about how CEDA can support the Bahamas in the area of trade, investment and supporting business where it matters the most on the ground. Help them export more and do better, and create jobs and opportunities for Bahamian business people. “We work in three areas. The first is investment promotion, and our job is to steer investments our way to the Caribbean. The second area that we work on is to help promote and export Caribbean products to overseas markets like the European markets, taking advantage of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) that we have with the EU. The third is in the area of services.” Apart from tourism, Mr Maharaj said The Bahamas’ rich culture and creativity - as well as that of the wider Caribbean - can be developed for economic exploitation. “For example, in Trinidad and Tobago, it is famous for calypso, and in Jamaica they have reggae.
In The Bahamas, the creativity here is amazing,” he added. “We are keen as well to support The Bahamas in helping translate some of your artists from being an artist for the time of Junkanoo to being a business person. So, with the minister, we spoke about three things: Investment promotion and how we can support the Bahamas in attracting investment; export promotion and development, and how we can take some of your business people who are exporting - or who want to export and have the potential to export - and sensitise them to the market requirements of the EU; and lastly the area of services and how we can provide support to the creative sector, also known as the orange economy, to generate jobs and opportunities for people in The Bahamas.” Mr Maharaj’s predecessor focused more on financial services, but Mr Maharaj said CEDA had switched its agenda to “focus on
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THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, PAGE 21
BDB gives $400k to crowdfund platform THE Bahamas Development Bank has provided $400,000 in financing to ArawakX, the Bahamas-based crowdfunding platform, as part of its drive to invest in the socalled “orange economy”. That sector, which incorporates technology, music, film and other creative and cultural works, is being aided by the capital raising activities facilitated by ArawakX. “The orange economy has enormous untapped potential that is matched by a need for innovative financing that understands the value of intellectual property, creative works
and technological progression,” said Sumayyah Cargill, unit head of strategic development and initiatives for The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB). “ArawakX is the first type of business to be licensed in the crowdfunding space in The Bahamas. Many of the projects they are undertaking are very much of interest to the bank.” The BDB’s financing will help ArawakX create new fintech (financial technology) products; support local businesses; progress digital currency adoption in The Bahamas; and aid
the unbanked population in accessing financial services. Ms Cargill continued: “As part of our strategic objectives centred on the sustainable development goals, we aim to support financial inclusion, economic diversification through the orange economy, and youth in business, and ArawakX checks all of those boxes for us.” “We are very delighted to have received financing for our fintech platform from BDB. We are enthused to be working with them on several innovative projects, which will help to further develop our financial ecosystem,” said ArawakX’s
chief technology officer, D’Arcy Rahming Jr. Besides providing a crowdfunding platform, ArawakX has partnered with Sun Cash to increase
the use of digital currency throughout The Bahamas, especially among persons who are unbanked or live on islands without banks. These customers
are often BDB clients, and the partnership is designed to create synergies for the BDB and ArawakX.
business@tribunemedia.net
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2021
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Embassies hit by 75% auto delivery plummet By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net BAHAMAS-BASED diplomatic missions are among those hit by a vehicle backlog where local dealers receive as little as 25 percent of their orders as the global supply chain crisis worsens. Fred Albury, the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s president, yesterday told Tribune Business he “never thought I’d see it come to this” where “special orders” were now unlikely to arrive in this nation before March/April 2022. With his showroom “just about empty” of Hyundaibrand product, he warned that the vehicle shortage will be felt beyond purchasers and the immediate auto industry, saying bluntly: “No product, no tax” for the Government. And Mr Albury warned consumers they should “not be surprised to see price increases across the board” next year with vehicles, parts and service likely to jump about 5 percent
• Some vehicle showrooms ‘just about empty’ • BMDA chief: 5% ‘across-theboard’ price rise • Adds: ‘Never thought I’d see it come to this’ as the Bahamian auto industry grapples with rising freight costs, container shortages and increased haulage expenses in the US that are affecting all aspects of this economy. The global economy’s supply chain woes, sparked by factory backlogs and shipping delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic, have also served to exacerbate vehicle manufacturer woes that can be traced back to the fire that destroyed the factory producing semiconductor chips for many models.
“It has gotten worse,” Mr Albury told this newspaper. “While we’ve been ordering product, it’s not been built and my showroom, especially on the Quality side, Hyundai and Suzuki, is just about empty. I’ve got a bit of Toyota product left. “It’s tight globally. If I order 30 vehicles, I’m lucky to get ten to 12. It’s the production of the vehicles and the shipping as well. It’s a double whammy.” Rick Lowe, the BMDA’s secretary, backed Mr Albury in describing the situation as “serious”.
“They keep saying it’s recovering, but you put in an order and it gets delayed,” he added. “Nobody is giving any real specifics. We’ve just had several shipments arrive together, which creates a backlog for us. We received a shipment of vehicles last months, and expect a shipment this month, but it’s limited numbers. “They’re less than one-half, maybe one-quarter of what normal orders are. In some cases you cannot get inventory. We continue to bump along with the supply chain as it limps along. It is what it is. So far we’re holding our own, but the longer this goes on the worse it seems to get.” Mr Lowe added that besides the supply chain woes confronting dealers, auto buyers are also finding it more difficult to obtain credit to finance purchases. “There are delays with credit, financing,” he said. “Banks are being extra cautious, which is also understandable.
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Farmers ‘frustrated’ by rampant red tape By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
PASTOR EDDIE VICTOR
GB Power in 25-year east, west extension
AN agriculture entrepreneur yesterday urged multiple government ministries to slash the bureaucratic processes that are “frustrating” farmers and impeding a “time sensitive” industry. Caron Shepherd, president of the newlyformed Bahamas Agro
Entrepreneurs Group, told Tribune Business she was constantly pushing the Ministry of Agriculture to reform a circuitous approval process that farmers must endure when importing the likes of seeds, raw materials and production equipment that are vital to growing crops and livestock. With COVID-19 having reawakened food security and sustainability
discussions in The Bahamas, she argued that unnecessary red tape was stifling the ability of domestic producers to make further inroads into their 8 percent share of the country’s food needs. “I try to get people to understand how time sensitive food is,” Ms Shepherd said. “You cannot plant a seed today and wait for
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By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net GRAND Bahama Power Company yesterday confirmed its East and West End electricity supply agreements have been extended for a further 25 years - a revelation not met with universal acclaim. A spokesperson for the energy utility, responding to Tribune Business inquiries, said it had simply exercised the renewal option within the timelines stipulated in the original agreements that expired in 2018. “The Grand Bahama Power Company would have exercised its option for both the East and West End agreement,” they told this newspaper. “We would have filed that with the previous [Minnis] administration through our legal counsel in sufficient time, so those agreements have been extended. “It was extended for an additional 25 years, both for West and East Grand Bahama. It is confirmed that we would have extended our option, and that it was sent over to the previous administration in time.” The spokesperson’s comments are the first official confirmation that the East and West End energy supply agreements were renewed, coming three years after the original ones expired. Pastor Eddie Victor, president of the Coalition of Concerned Citizens (CCC), and a long-time GB Power critic, described the two 25-year extensions as “sad” and pledged to address the matter with the newly-elected Davis administration. However, as previously reported by Tribune Business, the first East and West
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LIGHTHOUSE POINT
PI entrepreneur confident in new Gov’t on lease fight By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamian entrepreneur locked in a legal battle with the Government over his Crown Land lease on Paradise Island yesterday voiced optimism the new administration will come to his rescue. Toby Smith, the Paradise Island Lighthouse and Beach Club head, told Tribune Business he is waiting for the “Government to get its feet under the desk” before he starts agitating for the newlyelected Davis administration to review a situation that also involves Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Mr Smith said: “I’m giving him (Prime Minister Philip Davis) some space, but I am confident in the words he has expressed already
in the past by saying that he will cancel any deal done for Royal Caribbean for any Crown Land on Paradise Island.” Mr Davis has gone on record saying that he will “cancel” Royal Caribbean’s lease because its Royal Beach Club project would be “enormously impactful” to downtown Nassau, including Bay Street merchants and all other sectors that rely on the cruise industry for their livelihoods. Mr Smith added: “With this new government, their mantra is believing in Bahamians, and as a Bahamian I am confident that Mr Davis and his team are going to do the right thing which is to honour my Crown Land lease.”
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Bank loss leaves Family Islands ‘out of economy’ • Exuma Chamber to engage Gov’t on issue • ‘Two-thirds’ branch loss hits ‘open economy’ • Out Islands treated ‘as if they do not exist’ By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net EXUMA’S Chamber of Commerce yesterday said it is aiming to engage the Government over the “devastating” impact the island has suffered from losing “two-thirds” of its bank branches. Pedro Rolle, the Chamber’s president, told Tribune Business it was impossible for Exuma to present itself to Bahamian and international investors as a modern, open economy unless there was sufficient access to “basic, functional commercial banking”. With both Scotiabank and Bank of The Bahamas exiting Exuma within two years, he added that the island is now down to just one remaining commercial bank branch - Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Speaking after John Rolle, the Central Bank’s governor, revealed last week that bank branches in Grand Bahama and the Family Islands have shrunk by almost 40 percent in the seven years to 2021, the Exuma Chamber chief voiced doubts over whether electronic payments providers or the Sand Dollar digital currency will be able to adequately fill the void. “We’ve been talking about this, and we decided we’re going to make some representations to the Government to see if they can assist us in Exuma. We literally at the moment have one bank that has a physical presence, and that is RBC,” Pedro Rolle told this newspaper. “We’re preparing it. We had a meeting Friday, and the representations will be made shortly. There’s no way we can have an emerging economy, reputation
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