Branville 'lacking Cabinet support'
tribune242:
ALTHOUGH widely considered to be a "popular Member of Parliament" by the voting public, FNM MP Branville McCartney does not share that same level of support among his former cabinet colleagues, The Tribune has been informed.
Out of a cabinet of 17 persons, sources close to the Bamboo Town MP said Mr McCartney could have the backing of possibly only "three or four" ministers.
This support, however, is said to grow when one considers there are a few "disgruntled" backbenchers within the party who would like to see a change in the party's leadership.
A senior FNM told The Tribune: "For right now, the majority of Branville's support is on the outside of the party. So his allies, within the organisation, will have to be in a wait-and-see mode. You don't want to be the man to put up your hand in support of him and draw back a stump."
Another voting delegate within the FNM said Mr McCartney would be wise to implement a "wait and see" position at this time, as he should not allow "outside influences" to move him before "the right time."
"In politics, timing is everything. Having political capital, and knowing what to do with it, are two completely different things. It is also very hard to remove a leader who all you can say about him is that you don't like his style. So ambition, in this instance, must learn to pace itself," he said.
Currently, if Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham were to step aside as leader of the FNM by the end of the year, the governing party could see a six-way race for its leadership post.
Among the names being touted as persons interested in becoming the next possible leader of the organisation are: Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette, Minister of State for Finance Zhivargo Laing, Minister of National Security Tommy Turnquest, Minister of Labour Dion Foulkes, the chairman of the party Carl Bethel, and, of course, the former Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney.
August 19, 2010
tribune242
A political blog about Bahamian politics in The Bahamas, Bahamian Politicans - and the entire Bahamas political lot. Bahamian Blogger Dennis Dames keeps you updated on the political news and views throughout the islands of The Bahamas without fear or favor. Bahamian Politicians and the Bahamian Political Arena: Updates one Post at a time on Bahamas Politics and Bahamas Politicans; and their local, regional and international policies and perspectives.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Higher taxes for the business community may erode investor confidence says The Nassau Institute
'Taxes hitting investor confidence'
By INDERIA SAUNDERS
Guardian Business Reporter
inderia@nasguard.com:
The Nassau Institute is pressing government to accept investor confidence may be eroded because of recent changes to public policies that have resulted in higher taxes for the business community.
It's among the most recent commentaries put forth by the group that advocates a free market Bahamas.
While the institute agrees that the U.S. economic downturn has serious consequences for The Bahamas, it believes there are things that can be done to help inject some enthusiasm into the entrepreneurial class-and introducing new taxes is not one of them.
"A government should not be destabilizing the business community with excessive taxation nor blindsiding them with rule/regulation changes that do not seem to be well thought out,"said a statement from the group."Yet The Bahamas economy has certainly had an abundance of new taxation and regulation in recent months.
"The government, while finally realizing their profligate borrowing and spending must be brought under control. It should also accept that investor confidence is rattled when they are not sure what public policies to expect next. So there is a delicate balance between"reasonable"taxes and rules/regulations and over taxing and over burdensome rules/regulations."
According to the institute, the public sector is now beginning to experience the devastating effects of these very tough economic times that the private sector has been under for two years now, and there are no easy political answers. It points to a recent article written by Dr. Robert Higgs, an economist, who asserts genuine economic recovery requires a substantial reduction of government expenditure, taxes and regulations, along with a credible government commitment to stay this less burdensome course.
The columnist believes it would give private entrepreneurs the confidence and time to generate prosperity; however, he said that anemic private employment tempts politicians to intervene even more in the economy, which heightens the uncertainty and discouraging investors further in a vicious cycle.
It's something the Nassau Institute agrees with fully.
"Recovery depends on private sector growth,"it said,"and shrinking the size of a government(expenditure, borrowing, taxes, regulation)that is now beyond the capacity of the private sector to support."
8/16/2010
thenassauguardian
By INDERIA SAUNDERS
Guardian Business Reporter
inderia@nasguard.com:
The Nassau Institute is pressing government to accept investor confidence may be eroded because of recent changes to public policies that have resulted in higher taxes for the business community.
It's among the most recent commentaries put forth by the group that advocates a free market Bahamas.
While the institute agrees that the U.S. economic downturn has serious consequences for The Bahamas, it believes there are things that can be done to help inject some enthusiasm into the entrepreneurial class-and introducing new taxes is not one of them.
"A government should not be destabilizing the business community with excessive taxation nor blindsiding them with rule/regulation changes that do not seem to be well thought out,"said a statement from the group."Yet The Bahamas economy has certainly had an abundance of new taxation and regulation in recent months.
"The government, while finally realizing their profligate borrowing and spending must be brought under control. It should also accept that investor confidence is rattled when they are not sure what public policies to expect next. So there is a delicate balance between"reasonable"taxes and rules/regulations and over taxing and over burdensome rules/regulations."
According to the institute, the public sector is now beginning to experience the devastating effects of these very tough economic times that the private sector has been under for two years now, and there are no easy political answers. It points to a recent article written by Dr. Robert Higgs, an economist, who asserts genuine economic recovery requires a substantial reduction of government expenditure, taxes and regulations, along with a credible government commitment to stay this less burdensome course.
The columnist believes it would give private entrepreneurs the confidence and time to generate prosperity; however, he said that anemic private employment tempts politicians to intervene even more in the economy, which heightens the uncertainty and discouraging investors further in a vicious cycle.
It's something the Nassau Institute agrees with fully.
"Recovery depends on private sector growth,"it said,"and shrinking the size of a government(expenditure, borrowing, taxes, regulation)that is now beyond the capacity of the private sector to support."
8/16/2010
thenassauguardian
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Work permits for about 5,000 Chinese workers to help construct the $2.6 billion Baha Mar Cable Beach resort ... Yea or Nay Bahamians?
PLP MPs expected to represent their constituents
tribune242 editorial
IT IS agreed by both government and opposition that the Bahamas needs a major project at this time to revive the construction industry and get as many Bahamians back to work as possible.
However, an off-the-cuff remark by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham that if the Baha Mar project were to go ahead, Atlantis' Phase Four would not, has been interpreted by PLP politicians to mean that if Mr Ingraham approved Baha Mar, he would not approve Atlantis Phase Four. It is strange how two groups of people can hear the same remark, yet come away with different interpretations. When we heard Mr Ingraham's short statement it was obvious to us that what he was saying was that the market could not successfully sustain two large tourist developments. It had nothing to do with any approval either given or withheld by him.
The remark pointed to the astute tourist entrepreneur Sol Kerzner. It was obvious that Mr Kerzner, considering his options against a depressed world market, would have second thoughts about gambling at this time with the large outlay required by his Phase Four plans for Atlantis if Baha Mar were to go ahead with essentially the same product. Cancellation, or postponement seemed obvious.
Mr Ingraham later clarified his remarks. He agreed that the country needed a major project, but pointed out that currently it only had the manpower and infrastructure to carry out one major project at a time, be it Baha Mar or Atlantis Phase Four. "At the same time we can't have both; not simultaneously," he said.
However, before anything can be decided Bahamians have to agree on whether work permits should be approved for about 5,000 Chinese workers to help construct the $2.6 billion Baha Mar Cable Beach resort. We all know in the past that Bahamians have always protested foreigners being brought in for various projects, and so government has quite rightly said that this time -- the numbers required being so overwhelming -- that Bahamians will have to make the final decision. Therefore, the matter will be taken to parliament. But the Opposition has backed off. This, they claim is an Ingraham problem. They blame him for the Baha Mar-Harrah deal not going through -- forgetting that at the time of that deal it was their government that dragged its feet so long that Harrah's was sold and the new owners turned down the Baha Mar contract that was yet to be finally approved by the Christie government. The Christie-led Opposition, which if it had been more decisive could have clinched the Harrah deal before the sale, now say that Chinese labourers were not a part of the original equation and so it will have no part in the decision making on the floor of parliament.
The Opposition has always criticised Mr Ingraham for not consulting them or the nation sufficiently. He is now consulting the nation through the people's representatives, who now tell him that it is not necessary to bring the issue to parliament. But it is necessary. At no time has the Bahamas been faced with an influx of 5,000 foreign workers. Do Bahamians agree or not? The only persons who can answer this question are those MPs who they elected to parliament to speak on their behalf. If the people's representatives fail to do so, they have failed in their duty to their constituents, and there should be consequences.
Arguing that the Bahamian economy "desperately needs" the Cable Beach development, a former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce president urged Bahamians to vote out of office any MP who opposed the work permits. The Bahamas Contractors Association, in an effort to protect the Bahamian workforce, is preparing a three-tiered initiative to prepare construction workers and companies to bid for jobs when the Baha Mar construction starts. Baha Mar says there will be about 7,000 permanent jobs at the end of the construction and 3,300 temporary jobs during construction. Of course, as National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest says, "It also has to be factored in that this is a period of high unemployment and that has to be taken into account." He quite rightly believes that "members of parliament who represent the people of the Bahamas ought to have a say in an unusual labour component."
At the end of the day we hope that the BahaMar developers will have sense enough to go after different clientele and explore a different market to the Kerzner brand. However, it they plan to poach on Atlantis' guest list, and copy the One and Only identity, not only will Atlantis suffer, but so will the Bahamas because instead of growing, the overall tourist market will remain static. At present Sol Kerzner, a proven success in the resort business, provides secure employment for at least 2,500 Bahamians. In fact it is his enterprise alone that put the Bahamas back on the tourist map. However, if one resort starts to cripple the other, and the presence of Baha Mar fails to increase the market, Atlantis could start to cut back, which would leave Bahamians where?
This too has to be factored into the debate. This is no time for the PLP to play politics. Bahamians are the ones carrying the burden of their salaries during these lean times and so we expect them to justify their seats in parliament.
August 17, 2010
tribune242 editorial
tribune242 editorial
IT IS agreed by both government and opposition that the Bahamas needs a major project at this time to revive the construction industry and get as many Bahamians back to work as possible.
However, an off-the-cuff remark by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham that if the Baha Mar project were to go ahead, Atlantis' Phase Four would not, has been interpreted by PLP politicians to mean that if Mr Ingraham approved Baha Mar, he would not approve Atlantis Phase Four. It is strange how two groups of people can hear the same remark, yet come away with different interpretations. When we heard Mr Ingraham's short statement it was obvious to us that what he was saying was that the market could not successfully sustain two large tourist developments. It had nothing to do with any approval either given or withheld by him.
The remark pointed to the astute tourist entrepreneur Sol Kerzner. It was obvious that Mr Kerzner, considering his options against a depressed world market, would have second thoughts about gambling at this time with the large outlay required by his Phase Four plans for Atlantis if Baha Mar were to go ahead with essentially the same product. Cancellation, or postponement seemed obvious.
Mr Ingraham later clarified his remarks. He agreed that the country needed a major project, but pointed out that currently it only had the manpower and infrastructure to carry out one major project at a time, be it Baha Mar or Atlantis Phase Four. "At the same time we can't have both; not simultaneously," he said.
However, before anything can be decided Bahamians have to agree on whether work permits should be approved for about 5,000 Chinese workers to help construct the $2.6 billion Baha Mar Cable Beach resort. We all know in the past that Bahamians have always protested foreigners being brought in for various projects, and so government has quite rightly said that this time -- the numbers required being so overwhelming -- that Bahamians will have to make the final decision. Therefore, the matter will be taken to parliament. But the Opposition has backed off. This, they claim is an Ingraham problem. They blame him for the Baha Mar-Harrah deal not going through -- forgetting that at the time of that deal it was their government that dragged its feet so long that Harrah's was sold and the new owners turned down the Baha Mar contract that was yet to be finally approved by the Christie government. The Christie-led Opposition, which if it had been more decisive could have clinched the Harrah deal before the sale, now say that Chinese labourers were not a part of the original equation and so it will have no part in the decision making on the floor of parliament.
The Opposition has always criticised Mr Ingraham for not consulting them or the nation sufficiently. He is now consulting the nation through the people's representatives, who now tell him that it is not necessary to bring the issue to parliament. But it is necessary. At no time has the Bahamas been faced with an influx of 5,000 foreign workers. Do Bahamians agree or not? The only persons who can answer this question are those MPs who they elected to parliament to speak on their behalf. If the people's representatives fail to do so, they have failed in their duty to their constituents, and there should be consequences.
Arguing that the Bahamian economy "desperately needs" the Cable Beach development, a former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce president urged Bahamians to vote out of office any MP who opposed the work permits. The Bahamas Contractors Association, in an effort to protect the Bahamian workforce, is preparing a three-tiered initiative to prepare construction workers and companies to bid for jobs when the Baha Mar construction starts. Baha Mar says there will be about 7,000 permanent jobs at the end of the construction and 3,300 temporary jobs during construction. Of course, as National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest says, "It also has to be factored in that this is a period of high unemployment and that has to be taken into account." He quite rightly believes that "members of parliament who represent the people of the Bahamas ought to have a say in an unusual labour component."
At the end of the day we hope that the BahaMar developers will have sense enough to go after different clientele and explore a different market to the Kerzner brand. However, it they plan to poach on Atlantis' guest list, and copy the One and Only identity, not only will Atlantis suffer, but so will the Bahamas because instead of growing, the overall tourist market will remain static. At present Sol Kerzner, a proven success in the resort business, provides secure employment for at least 2,500 Bahamians. In fact it is his enterprise alone that put the Bahamas back on the tourist map. However, if one resort starts to cripple the other, and the presence of Baha Mar fails to increase the market, Atlantis could start to cut back, which would leave Bahamians where?
This too has to be factored into the debate. This is no time for the PLP to play politics. Bahamians are the ones carrying the burden of their salaries during these lean times and so we expect them to justify their seats in parliament.
August 17, 2010
tribune242 editorial
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Haitian leaders appealed to their countrymen who are in The Bahamas illegally to comply with the Bahamian government's request to leave the Islands
HAITIAN LEADERS: TIME TO GO HOME
BY KEVA LIGHTBOURNE
Guardian Senior Reporter
kdl@nasguard.com:
Two Haitian leaders yesterday appealed to their countrymen who are in The Bahamas illegally to comply with the government's request to leave, however, they believe that a two-week grace period should have been implemented.
"I think it is too quick for the government to ask the people to leave immediately. They don't have any money so it is going to be hard for them to go back home. They need to get a special time like 14 to 21 days to remove themselves,"said President of the Haitian Bahamian Development Center Organization(HBDCO)Rodlin Joseph.
"I think it would be fair to give them time than to say leave now,"Joseph said.
His call for more time to be given to his countrymen came a day after the government issued an official warning to all illegal immigrants to leave the country immediately, or face immediate deportation. The warning came in response to the high influx of illegal immigrants, which climbed to more than 500 in recent weeks.
"Having regard to the recent heightened infringement of Bahamas immigration law, notice is hereby given that with immediate effect, all immigrants are requested to leave The Bahamas voluntarily,"said a joint statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Immigration over the weekend.
"All persons who are here illegally are in contravention of the laws of The Bahamas,(and) are advised to return to their country of origin or be subject to apprehension and deportation,"the statement said.
However, in an interview yesterday Minister of Foreign Affairs Brent Symonette said the government is not saying that migrants cannot stay in The Bahamas, just that they must have the proper documentation or they must leave.
"I cannot go to the United States and decide to sit there for six, eight, ten years without a work permit or a residency permit, and then turn round and say it is too soon. Persons who are flaunting the law know full well that they are suppose to have a residency permit or a work permit to be here,"Symonette said.
He added that the ministry has been calling on undocumented Haitians to get their status regularized, and that those who failed to heed the call must go home.
HBDCO Chairman Hellanian Butler said up to now the government has been lenient.
"I think that the people had a chance, even if they wanted to have themselves documented properly, they had time to do it. And I am more than certain that they haven't done that, so it is time to go home,"he said.
Joseph has acknowledged that the government has done its part following the earthquake, and now it is time for those who are in the country illegally to voluntary leave before being forced to do so."We are asking all those Haitians and Jamaicans who are here illegally to please assist this government in this matter. I think it is the best way to do so then the government would not force you. If you go voluntary you won't have any problems with the government but if you wait until the government tries to get you,(you)will not be able to come back to this country," Joseph said.
"If you go by yourself you will always feel free to come back to the country as a tourist. It is very good what the government has done for those Haitians after the earthquake, but it is time now to go back home,"he explained.
When contacted yesterday, Haitian Ambassador Harold Louis opted not to comment on the matter.
The number of illegal migrants captured in Bahamian waters during the first two weeks of August climbed to more than 500, according to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force(RBDF). It represents the largest number of migrants captured in a two-week period so far for the year.
The latest apprehension reported by the RBDF took place at the Exuma Land and Sea Park, where 57 Haitian migrants were spotted aboard a wooden sloop in the area.
Following the January 12 earthquake, the government was understanding and responsive by temporarily suspending its apprehension exercises with respect to Haitians residing illegally in the country.
While officials cannot determine exactly how many illegal migrants have entered the country since the exercises were relaxed in January, Symonette said some 772 undocumented Haitians have been apprehended on the high seas or have landed on various Family Islands.
8/16/2010
thenassauguardian
BY KEVA LIGHTBOURNE
Guardian Senior Reporter
kdl@nasguard.com:
Two Haitian leaders yesterday appealed to their countrymen who are in The Bahamas illegally to comply with the government's request to leave, however, they believe that a two-week grace period should have been implemented.
"I think it is too quick for the government to ask the people to leave immediately. They don't have any money so it is going to be hard for them to go back home. They need to get a special time like 14 to 21 days to remove themselves,"said President of the Haitian Bahamian Development Center Organization(HBDCO)Rodlin Joseph.
"I think it would be fair to give them time than to say leave now,"Joseph said.
His call for more time to be given to his countrymen came a day after the government issued an official warning to all illegal immigrants to leave the country immediately, or face immediate deportation. The warning came in response to the high influx of illegal immigrants, which climbed to more than 500 in recent weeks.
"Having regard to the recent heightened infringement of Bahamas immigration law, notice is hereby given that with immediate effect, all immigrants are requested to leave The Bahamas voluntarily,"said a joint statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Immigration over the weekend.
"All persons who are here illegally are in contravention of the laws of The Bahamas,(and) are advised to return to their country of origin or be subject to apprehension and deportation,"the statement said.
However, in an interview yesterday Minister of Foreign Affairs Brent Symonette said the government is not saying that migrants cannot stay in The Bahamas, just that they must have the proper documentation or they must leave.
"I cannot go to the United States and decide to sit there for six, eight, ten years without a work permit or a residency permit, and then turn round and say it is too soon. Persons who are flaunting the law know full well that they are suppose to have a residency permit or a work permit to be here,"Symonette said.
He added that the ministry has been calling on undocumented Haitians to get their status regularized, and that those who failed to heed the call must go home.
HBDCO Chairman Hellanian Butler said up to now the government has been lenient.
"I think that the people had a chance, even if they wanted to have themselves documented properly, they had time to do it. And I am more than certain that they haven't done that, so it is time to go home,"he said.
Joseph has acknowledged that the government has done its part following the earthquake, and now it is time for those who are in the country illegally to voluntary leave before being forced to do so."We are asking all those Haitians and Jamaicans who are here illegally to please assist this government in this matter. I think it is the best way to do so then the government would not force you. If you go voluntary you won't have any problems with the government but if you wait until the government tries to get you,(you)will not be able to come back to this country," Joseph said.
"If you go by yourself you will always feel free to come back to the country as a tourist. It is very good what the government has done for those Haitians after the earthquake, but it is time now to go back home,"he explained.
When contacted yesterday, Haitian Ambassador Harold Louis opted not to comment on the matter.
The number of illegal migrants captured in Bahamian waters during the first two weeks of August climbed to more than 500, according to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force(RBDF). It represents the largest number of migrants captured in a two-week period so far for the year.
The latest apprehension reported by the RBDF took place at the Exuma Land and Sea Park, where 57 Haitian migrants were spotted aboard a wooden sloop in the area.
Following the January 12 earthquake, the government was understanding and responsive by temporarily suspending its apprehension exercises with respect to Haitians residing illegally in the country.
While officials cannot determine exactly how many illegal migrants have entered the country since the exercises were relaxed in January, Symonette said some 772 undocumented Haitians have been apprehended on the high seas or have landed on various Family Islands.
8/16/2010
thenassauguardian
Monday, August 16, 2010
FORCES with an "underhanded agenda" are trying to "discredit Nygard Cay" and "push Peter Nygard out of The Bahamas", says property mgr Eric Gibson
Claims that 'forces trying to push' Peter Nygard out of the Bahamas
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
FORCES with an "underhanded agenda" are trying to "discredit Nygard Cay" and "push (Peter) Nygard out of The Bahamas," according to an official spokesperson for the Canadian fashion mogul.
"The facts are that Nygard Cay has obtained all required permits; has worked within the Bahamas building system throughout 20 years of construction with the full blessing of every government department," said Eric Gibson, property manager at Nygard Cay.
He said the private residence of Mr Nygard was ready to employ more than 200 Bahamians, and invest between $50 and $70 million in the Bahamian economy, "as soon as it gets its promised lease and permits from the government."
In a telephone conversation Mr Gibson confirmed that Nygard Cay has no hotel licence, because the facility is "not in fact a hotel and has never purported to be one."
"Out of 20 years of operation, Nygard Cay was rented seven times as a private residence (a practice that is common in the Lyford Cay Community): two times as the wedding reception to Lyford Cay residents; it has hosted many church groups, charity drives, underprivileged children outings and been the venue and the centrepiece for countless community service drives such as Ocean Watch, to preserve the waters and corals of (the) Bahamas; and athletic fund raising, such as getting the Golden Girls into the 2000 Olympics, to name a few," said Mr Gibson.
"Nygard Cay has a private residence permit and has always and is continuing to operating under residency permit," he said.
The government has recently accused Mr Nygard of "unauthorised" expansions of his property over the seabed at Simms Point, Lyford Cay, where his property is located. This is now being investigated.
Last month, the Office of the Prime Minister issued a directive to Mr Nygard to remove structures erected on the land in question, and to reinstate the coastline at Simms Point. All government agencies were also advised not to approve any applications for construction on the land in question.
Since a fire destroyed much of the property last year, efforts have been made to restore the facility. Last month, Mr Nygard expressed "frustration" about waiting for various government approvals to proceed with his plans to rebuild. He estimated the fire caused "$50 million worth of investment."
At the time, it was revealed that expansion plans included a suspended cable bedroom that lowers into the ocean, a dolphin interaction attraction, and a programme allowing guests to visit the property's $2 million shark tank.
August 16, 2010
tribune242
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
FORCES with an "underhanded agenda" are trying to "discredit Nygard Cay" and "push (Peter) Nygard out of The Bahamas," according to an official spokesperson for the Canadian fashion mogul.
"The facts are that Nygard Cay has obtained all required permits; has worked within the Bahamas building system throughout 20 years of construction with the full blessing of every government department," said Eric Gibson, property manager at Nygard Cay.
He said the private residence of Mr Nygard was ready to employ more than 200 Bahamians, and invest between $50 and $70 million in the Bahamian economy, "as soon as it gets its promised lease and permits from the government."
In a telephone conversation Mr Gibson confirmed that Nygard Cay has no hotel licence, because the facility is "not in fact a hotel and has never purported to be one."
"Out of 20 years of operation, Nygard Cay was rented seven times as a private residence (a practice that is common in the Lyford Cay Community): two times as the wedding reception to Lyford Cay residents; it has hosted many church groups, charity drives, underprivileged children outings and been the venue and the centrepiece for countless community service drives such as Ocean Watch, to preserve the waters and corals of (the) Bahamas; and athletic fund raising, such as getting the Golden Girls into the 2000 Olympics, to name a few," said Mr Gibson.
"Nygard Cay has a private residence permit and has always and is continuing to operating under residency permit," he said.
The government has recently accused Mr Nygard of "unauthorised" expansions of his property over the seabed at Simms Point, Lyford Cay, where his property is located. This is now being investigated.
Last month, the Office of the Prime Minister issued a directive to Mr Nygard to remove structures erected on the land in question, and to reinstate the coastline at Simms Point. All government agencies were also advised not to approve any applications for construction on the land in question.
Since a fire destroyed much of the property last year, efforts have been made to restore the facility. Last month, Mr Nygard expressed "frustration" about waiting for various government approvals to proceed with his plans to rebuild. He estimated the fire caused "$50 million worth of investment."
At the time, it was revealed that expansion plans included a suspended cable bedroom that lowers into the ocean, a dolphin interaction attraction, and a programme allowing guests to visit the property's $2 million shark tank.
August 16, 2010
tribune242
Nygard Cay is not licensed as a commercial property says Environment Minister Earl Deveaux
Earl Deveaux: Nygard Cay is not licensed as commercial property
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
NYGARD Cay, the private home of Canadian fashion designer Peter Nygard, is advertised as a "private luxury resort" with no hotel licence, according to government officials
Nygard Cay, sometimes referred to as Nygard Cay Resort, "is not licensed as a commercial property," said Environment Minister Earl Deveaux.
"My involvement and knowledge has to do with enforcement with every instance. We have always asked them to abide by the Physical Planning Bill, the Conservation of the Physical Landscape of the Bahamas Act, where they are required to get permits to dredge. Most of the dredging, except on one instance, has been unauthorised," said Mr Deveaux.
"Nygard has relentlessly acquired more land from its original boundaries. Compulsory demolition is an option. I think that process is unfolding. All of the government's options will be reviewed by the Attorney General's office," he said.
Documents obtained by The Tribune indicate Mr Nygard acquired his property in 1984 for about $1.7 million. The 3.25 acres was registered as a single-family residential property, according to Tribune sources.
Eric Gibson, property manager at Nygard Cay, confirmed that Nygard Cay has a "private residence permit and has always and is continuing to operating under residency permit."
He said, Nygard Cay has no hotel licence, because the facility is "not in fact a hotel and (we) have never purported to be one", and that "Nygard Cay is not conducting commercial activities."
Today, the Nygard Cay website advertises the property as a "private luxury resort" and a "unique private residence" with the facilities of a resort, which include: "replicas of Mayan temples, private tennis and volleyball courts, beaches, pool, disco club, state-of-the-art home theatre, and 20+ themed cabanas for (Mr Nygard), his family and many celebrity guests who wish to get away for a serene sabbatical."
A website promoting unusual villa and island rentals states: "For only $42,000 in 2008 your group of celebrities, executives, sports moguls or any person celebrating a birthday, anniversary, seminar, wedding, or vacation can have a trip of a lifetime. Special 4-hour dinners are available for $300 per additional person above 20 people. Special daily rentals in 2008 are $42,000 per day for the first 20 people and each additional person for a full day event will be $500."
Several websites on the Internet contain similar information about rental facilities and rates.
Mr Gibson said these "promotional websites" are not Nygard Cay sanctioned websites.
"In fact we have long time ago demanded for them to take it down, but we believe they have ceased business many years ago," he said.
Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, Minister of Tourism and Aviation (MOT), said the government does not promote Nygard Cay, because "it is not a licensed property." For the same reason he said, Nygard Cay receives none of the benefits of the Hotel Encouragement Act, such as being promoted by the tourism promotions board in the MOT. He also said he would be "surprised" if Nygard Cay had a restaurant licence or a night club licence.
Nygard Cay is known for its "extravagant parties." An exclusive group of Bahamians frequent the property on Sundays for the popular "pamper party," according to a former visitor. For years, Nygard Cay has played host to New Year's Eve parties for "A-List" celebrities.
"Anyone can wake up tomorrow and decide they are going to sell their property to people they wish to have visit and pay.
"People have bed and breakfast homes, villas, houses that they lease every day on the Internet. That is a global phenomena. You won't find it being promoted by or assisted by the Ministry because it is not a licensed property," said Mr Vanderpool Wallace.
Some websites advertise a five per cent Bahamas tax along with the per day rental fee for Nygard Cay. A Nygard Cay spokespersons said this information is contained on websites not sanctioned by Nygard Cay.
A Tribune source in the Ministry of Tourism said Nygard Cay does not pay a hotel room tax to the government.
It could "very well be a loophole" in the system, why Nygard Cay is able to promote itself as a "resort", when in fact it is not licensed as a hotel, said the source.
Since last year, under the amended Hotel Act, owner occupied rental homes are regulated by the government. In order to rent a private home to a "transient guest in the capacity as an operator of a hotel", an application has to be made for status as an "owner occupied rental home," said the Tribune source.
The legislation is up for review by the Bahamas Investment Authority, and not all of the regulations apply to owner occupied rental homes; however, at this time they are required to pay a hotel guest tax, as are all hotels, said the source.
Private homes owned by foreigners are governed by a tax structure determined by the Ministry of Finance and the Investment Authority. The permit issued states whether the property is residential, commercial, owner occupied or regulated by some other category.
"Those zoned commercial are given permits with the right to rent and conduct commercial activity. Those that are zoned residential have to convert to owner occupied to rent their property. Anyone renting their property must pay hotel guest tax," said the source at the MOT.
"If they wish to have owner occupied status then they have to go to the Authority, then the Ministry of Finance to determine their tax status and then to the hotel license department. Only those that have received finance approval based on their tax status can be registered."
Mr Vanderpool Wallace said the Bahamas government has always had a "higher concern," so the "resort" status of Nygard Cay has not been on the front burner. He said the "underlying problem" is the status of the use of the land, where Mr Nygard operates his facility.
The government has accused Mr Nygard of "unauthorised" expansion of his property over the seabed.
There is an investigation under way.
August 16, 2010
tribune242
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
NYGARD Cay, the private home of Canadian fashion designer Peter Nygard, is advertised as a "private luxury resort" with no hotel licence, according to government officials
Nygard Cay, sometimes referred to as Nygard Cay Resort, "is not licensed as a commercial property," said Environment Minister Earl Deveaux.
"My involvement and knowledge has to do with enforcement with every instance. We have always asked them to abide by the Physical Planning Bill, the Conservation of the Physical Landscape of the Bahamas Act, where they are required to get permits to dredge. Most of the dredging, except on one instance, has been unauthorised," said Mr Deveaux.
"Nygard has relentlessly acquired more land from its original boundaries. Compulsory demolition is an option. I think that process is unfolding. All of the government's options will be reviewed by the Attorney General's office," he said.
Documents obtained by The Tribune indicate Mr Nygard acquired his property in 1984 for about $1.7 million. The 3.25 acres was registered as a single-family residential property, according to Tribune sources.
Eric Gibson, property manager at Nygard Cay, confirmed that Nygard Cay has a "private residence permit and has always and is continuing to operating under residency permit."
He said, Nygard Cay has no hotel licence, because the facility is "not in fact a hotel and (we) have never purported to be one", and that "Nygard Cay is not conducting commercial activities."
Today, the Nygard Cay website advertises the property as a "private luxury resort" and a "unique private residence" with the facilities of a resort, which include: "replicas of Mayan temples, private tennis and volleyball courts, beaches, pool, disco club, state-of-the-art home theatre, and 20+ themed cabanas for (Mr Nygard), his family and many celebrity guests who wish to get away for a serene sabbatical."
A website promoting unusual villa and island rentals states: "For only $42,000 in 2008 your group of celebrities, executives, sports moguls or any person celebrating a birthday, anniversary, seminar, wedding, or vacation can have a trip of a lifetime. Special 4-hour dinners are available for $300 per additional person above 20 people. Special daily rentals in 2008 are $42,000 per day for the first 20 people and each additional person for a full day event will be $500."
Several websites on the Internet contain similar information about rental facilities and rates.
Mr Gibson said these "promotional websites" are not Nygard Cay sanctioned websites.
"In fact we have long time ago demanded for them to take it down, but we believe they have ceased business many years ago," he said.
Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, Minister of Tourism and Aviation (MOT), said the government does not promote Nygard Cay, because "it is not a licensed property." For the same reason he said, Nygard Cay receives none of the benefits of the Hotel Encouragement Act, such as being promoted by the tourism promotions board in the MOT. He also said he would be "surprised" if Nygard Cay had a restaurant licence or a night club licence.
Nygard Cay is known for its "extravagant parties." An exclusive group of Bahamians frequent the property on Sundays for the popular "pamper party," according to a former visitor. For years, Nygard Cay has played host to New Year's Eve parties for "A-List" celebrities.
"Anyone can wake up tomorrow and decide they are going to sell their property to people they wish to have visit and pay.
"People have bed and breakfast homes, villas, houses that they lease every day on the Internet. That is a global phenomena. You won't find it being promoted by or assisted by the Ministry because it is not a licensed property," said Mr Vanderpool Wallace.
Some websites advertise a five per cent Bahamas tax along with the per day rental fee for Nygard Cay. A Nygard Cay spokespersons said this information is contained on websites not sanctioned by Nygard Cay.
A Tribune source in the Ministry of Tourism said Nygard Cay does not pay a hotel room tax to the government.
It could "very well be a loophole" in the system, why Nygard Cay is able to promote itself as a "resort", when in fact it is not licensed as a hotel, said the source.
Since last year, under the amended Hotel Act, owner occupied rental homes are regulated by the government. In order to rent a private home to a "transient guest in the capacity as an operator of a hotel", an application has to be made for status as an "owner occupied rental home," said the Tribune source.
The legislation is up for review by the Bahamas Investment Authority, and not all of the regulations apply to owner occupied rental homes; however, at this time they are required to pay a hotel guest tax, as are all hotels, said the source.
Private homes owned by foreigners are governed by a tax structure determined by the Ministry of Finance and the Investment Authority. The permit issued states whether the property is residential, commercial, owner occupied or regulated by some other category.
"Those zoned commercial are given permits with the right to rent and conduct commercial activity. Those that are zoned residential have to convert to owner occupied to rent their property. Anyone renting their property must pay hotel guest tax," said the source at the MOT.
"If they wish to have owner occupied status then they have to go to the Authority, then the Ministry of Finance to determine their tax status and then to the hotel license department. Only those that have received finance approval based on their tax status can be registered."
Mr Vanderpool Wallace said the Bahamas government has always had a "higher concern," so the "resort" status of Nygard Cay has not been on the front burner. He said the "underlying problem" is the status of the use of the land, where Mr Nygard operates his facility.
The government has accused Mr Nygard of "unauthorised" expansion of his property over the seabed.
There is an investigation under way.
August 16, 2010
tribune242
Sunday, August 15, 2010
PLP Kennedy showdown: Derek Ryan, Dion Smith or Keith Bell?
PLP set for Kennedy 'showdown'
tribune242:
THE PLP is reportedly set to have a "showdown" in the Kennedy constituency with three candidates said to be seeking the nomination to run under the party's banner.
Attorney Derek Ryan, Dion Smith, and former police superintendent Keith Bell are all reported to be working in the area after the PLP's former candidate Kenyatta Gibson crossed the floor to become an FNM Member of Parliament.
Of the three candidates, it is said Mr Ryan and Mr Smith are the two front-runners - with Mr Smith getting the majority of the party's inner circle support, while Mr Ryan has secured the support on the constituency level.
With reports reaching The Tribune that the third probable contender, Mr Bell, is also being considered to run for the party in St Cecilia or the Sea Breeze constituency - party sources have suggested he will, in all eventuality, be considered for one of the latter seats to help defuse this growing problem.
Initially it was also reported that PLP treasurer Craig Butler had displayed an interest in the seat but was overlooked when Mr Smith emerged as a possible contender.
Mr Smith's probable nomination has come under fire in recent days as political pundits speculate that his emergence on the political scene could have more to do with cementing the position of other "would-be leaders" within the party than his own actual nomination. This has raised fears in some quarters among the party that there could be a challenge to the leadership of the party's leader Perry Christie prior to the 2012 general election.
Having emerged victorious from a challenge to his leadership at the party's last national convention, senior PLPs have stressed that the PLP cannot afford to revert to a repeat performance of that time - as Mr Christie's focus should now be placed firmly on defeating the FNM in 2012.
August 14, 2010
tribune242
tribune242:
THE PLP is reportedly set to have a "showdown" in the Kennedy constituency with three candidates said to be seeking the nomination to run under the party's banner.
Attorney Derek Ryan, Dion Smith, and former police superintendent Keith Bell are all reported to be working in the area after the PLP's former candidate Kenyatta Gibson crossed the floor to become an FNM Member of Parliament.
Of the three candidates, it is said Mr Ryan and Mr Smith are the two front-runners - with Mr Smith getting the majority of the party's inner circle support, while Mr Ryan has secured the support on the constituency level.
With reports reaching The Tribune that the third probable contender, Mr Bell, is also being considered to run for the party in St Cecilia or the Sea Breeze constituency - party sources have suggested he will, in all eventuality, be considered for one of the latter seats to help defuse this growing problem.
Initially it was also reported that PLP treasurer Craig Butler had displayed an interest in the seat but was overlooked when Mr Smith emerged as a possible contender.
Mr Smith's probable nomination has come under fire in recent days as political pundits speculate that his emergence on the political scene could have more to do with cementing the position of other "would-be leaders" within the party than his own actual nomination. This has raised fears in some quarters among the party that there could be a challenge to the leadership of the party's leader Perry Christie prior to the 2012 general election.
Having emerged victorious from a challenge to his leadership at the party's last national convention, senior PLPs have stressed that the PLP cannot afford to revert to a repeat performance of that time - as Mr Christie's focus should now be placed firmly on defeating the FNM in 2012.
August 14, 2010
tribune242
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)