If the 176‐square‐mile Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park could have been acquired as an untouched or pristine wilderness, the issue of land use conflicts within the park could have been easily avoided by forever excluding all private interests.
There is, however, a legacy of private land holdings in this park, which existed well before the government leased the territory to the BNT in 1962. The Bahamas National Trust Act does not override the inalienable rights of property owners, as enshrined within the constitution of The Bahamas.
In fact, about a third of the Exuma park’s land area is privately owned, including Cistern Cay, Pirate’s Cay, Little Pigeon Cay, South Halls Pond Cay, Soldier Cay, Dinna Cay, White Bay Cay, Osprey Cay, Bell Island and Little Bell Island.
There is no commercial development anywhere in the park, but some private islands have been developed for the personal use of the owners and their guests. Examples include Soldier Cay, Cistern Cay, Halls Pond Cay, and Bell Island. Developments over the years have included land clearing, home and infrastructure construction, and dredging of the seabed.
The most egregious development on private land in the park occurred in the early 2000s, when the owner (Victor Kozeny) engaged in an orgy of pointless land clearing, marina and road construction. The BNT had not been consulted prior to the proposed development, but was able to persuade the government to put a stop to the activities.
The comprehensive Planning and Subdivision Act, which will come into force on October 1 2010, will form the basis for land use decisions throughout The Bahamas. This provides an opportunity for the BNT to develop an authoritative land use plan for the park with strict rules on the scale and scope of development. Currently, the BNT can set rules and regulations for public use of the park but has no control over private land use.
These private islands were grandfathered in when the park was created, and successive governments have treated them as an important part of the country’s tax base. They also provide spin‐off benefits for nearby communities like Black Point, Staniel Cay and Farmers Cay.
The objectives of the Exuma park ‐ as expressed in the 2006 general management plan ‐ are to protect biodiversity, conserve natural and cultural resources, support the local and national economy, and provide environmentally sensitive visitor experiences.
Development on private land in the Bahamas is controlled through permits issued by the central government and/or local government authorities. The BNT works cooperatively with private landowners within the Exuma park and surrounding communities to encourage compatible planning and land use.
Every landowner in the park has contributed generously to the funding of the BNT.
In the present case, the owner of Bell Island applied to the government for permission to expand an existing service/utility area, excavate an inland yacht basin, and dredge less than 9 acres of sandy seabed to accommodate 150‐foot vessels. The total development footprint on the 349‐acre island is less than five acres, and mitigation would include removal of all casuarina trees, restoration of natural vegetation and development of a native plant nursery.
The government consulted the BNT on environmental safeguards for the development, although in the past consultation on such matters has been an exception rather than the rule. The BNT executive committee reviewed all available documents and considered the matter very carefully. The documents included an Environmental Impact Assessment completed by Turrell, Hall & Associates of Naples, Florida in March 2010.
The BNT called for:
1. An independent survey of all dredging areas and the relocation of any marine resources that may be practically salvageable.
2. A comprehensive environmental management plan for the development.
3. Completion of all dredging activities within 60 days.
4. Appointment of a full‐time, on‐site environmental/compliance officer approved by the BNT with full authority to suspend works and enforce conditions.
5. A requirement for the developer’s full and frank cooperation and consultation with the BNT on all matters.
6. Indemnity for any costs that may be incurred by the BNT as a result of the development.
The BNT also endorsed other environmental recommendations made by the BEST Commission.
The despoilation of Halls Pond Cay is a prime example of why the BNT needs to be actively involved in any land use planning within the Exuma park. We are pleased that the government has invited our input in the case of Bell Island, and we have conditionally accepted the relatively low impact of this proposed development. Our view was to permit reasonable access for the owner under strict environmental protocols.
16/09/2010
bnt
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.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Baha Mar Resolution Iced
BAHA MAR RESOLUTION FACING DELAY
By CANDIA DAMES
Guardian News Editor
candia@nasguard.com:
The government has shelved plans to debate a resolution on the controversial $2.6 billion Baha Mar project on Wednesday, The Nassau Guardian understands.
Instead, it will bring a resolution to approve the borrowing of $68 million to construct a four-lane highway between Lynden Pindling International Airport and the new six-legged roundabout on John. F. Kennedy Drive.
Leader of Government Business in the House Tommy Turnquest said yesterday that there was a change in plans given that the government had not yet received any confirmation that Baha Mar executives have settled a critical loan issue with the Bank of Nova Scotia(Scotiabank).
Baha Mar Chairman and CEO Sarkis Izmirlian was in Toronto last week meeting with top bank officials on the matter. Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham previously said the expectation was for this matter to be resolved by this week.
However, last night it appeared that a resolution had not yet been reached.
The Scotiabank loan issue is considered a final hurdle before the government decides on whether to give final approval for the project. Baha Mar is requesting 8,150 work permits for the mega development. The foreign labor component has shaped up to be the most controversial aspect of the deal.
The government had planned to debate the Baha Mar resolution on Wednesday and Thursday, but plans to do so after the banking issue is cleared up.
Instead, the focus will be on the airport highway resolution.
Last year, the government signed an agreement with China to finance that road project.
The 20-year concessionary loan will be made through the Chinese Export-Import Bank.
The agreement was signed during an official visit of Wu Bangguo, the chairman of the standing committee of China's National People's Congress, to The Bahamas.
During the visit, China and The Bahamas signed several other agreements, including a US $7.32m grant to help fund the construction of the national stadium.
9/17/2010
thenassauguardian
By CANDIA DAMES
Guardian News Editor
candia@nasguard.com:
The government has shelved plans to debate a resolution on the controversial $2.6 billion Baha Mar project on Wednesday, The Nassau Guardian understands.
Instead, it will bring a resolution to approve the borrowing of $68 million to construct a four-lane highway between Lynden Pindling International Airport and the new six-legged roundabout on John. F. Kennedy Drive.
Leader of Government Business in the House Tommy Turnquest said yesterday that there was a change in plans given that the government had not yet received any confirmation that Baha Mar executives have settled a critical loan issue with the Bank of Nova Scotia(Scotiabank).
Baha Mar Chairman and CEO Sarkis Izmirlian was in Toronto last week meeting with top bank officials on the matter. Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham previously said the expectation was for this matter to be resolved by this week.
However, last night it appeared that a resolution had not yet been reached.
The Scotiabank loan issue is considered a final hurdle before the government decides on whether to give final approval for the project. Baha Mar is requesting 8,150 work permits for the mega development. The foreign labor component has shaped up to be the most controversial aspect of the deal.
The government had planned to debate the Baha Mar resolution on Wednesday and Thursday, but plans to do so after the banking issue is cleared up.
Instead, the focus will be on the airport highway resolution.
Last year, the government signed an agreement with China to finance that road project.
The 20-year concessionary loan will be made through the Chinese Export-Import Bank.
The agreement was signed during an official visit of Wu Bangguo, the chairman of the standing committee of China's National People's Congress, to The Bahamas.
During the visit, China and The Bahamas signed several other agreements, including a US $7.32m grant to help fund the construction of the national stadium.
9/17/2010
thenassauguardian
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Is Your MP Performing: Garden Hills Residents Split on the Performance of Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament - Brensil Rolle
Is Your MP Performing: Garden Hills Residents Split
By IANTHIA SMITH
Supporters and critics of Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament for Garden Hills Brensil Rolle seem to be split on the issue as to whether or not the representative is performing in the area.
The Bahama Journal interviewed 10 Garden Hills residents Wednesday morning to find out how they feel about their MP.
Six out of those 10 constituents said they are not happy with Mr. Rolle’s performance while the remaining four said they were satisfied with what they have been seeing.
"Well he can come around more often and be more visible," one female resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "He needs to come around and try to help as much as he can. Right now in my house only my daughter is working, I’m not working, my son doesn’t have a job and things are tough."
Another male resident agrees.
He said over the years Mr. Rolle has quickly lost the momentum he initially exhibited in the constituency.
"When he first came in power, he seemed to be doing the job," he said. "But now, as you can see, there’s all kind of bush around here that no one would come to cut it down and because there’s all that bush there a lot of robberies that happen around here."
"And the thing is, Mr. Rolle lives right around the corner, it’s not like he’s a stranger. We would go around to him and let him know what’s going on, but still nothing is happening."
But there were several supporters who begged to differ with the negative feedback.
"Everybody has their own feelings," Buster Bethel said. "He doesn’t come around here to see me and he doesn’t come to see my wife, but I don’t care to see him, as long as he’s doing his job."
"He calls constituency meetings every month and those who are interested go to the meetings. Some people are looking for him to go directly to their house. I don’t care to see him, I don’t even care to see him during election time as long as he does his job and I think he is doing what he is supposed to do."
"To me, he’s done more than anyone else who represented this constituency. I feel good about him and I would definitely vote for him again," another woman added.
"So would I," her female family member chimed in.
The Garden Hills constituency is split into three sections; Garden Hills #1, #2, #3.
While some of the constituents did not want to go on record with their comments, many of them said they like the fact that their MP hosts numerous community events like ‘back to school’ and Christmas giveaways.
But for other residents, annual community fun days are simply not enough as they said issues with crime, the economy and unemployment continuously knock at their door.
"We haven’t had a park in this area for so long, actually as long as I have been living here, and that’s about 30 years now," said a male resident who did not want his name printed. "There’s nothing for the kids to do and there’s no spirit in Garden Hills."
"People in the area are hurting; there are no jobs, crime is high in this area and the residents here have a lot of concerns."
"I want to see the area cleaned up, the garbage removed and I want there to be something for the kids to do," a female resident said. "There’s so much to do in this area, so many people need help. While I understand he can’t make everyone’s wishes come true, he can listen to the cries, hear what people have to say."
"If he doesn’t want to come around what can I do," Elaine Scavella asked. "I can’t do anything, but I know one thing, I won’t vote for him or anyone else again."
"He’s doing the best he can and even if that means just putting on an event for us, then that’s good enough," another female resident added. "It isn’t all about finding jobs for people or even giving them things."
Derek Rolle, another Garden Hills resident admitted that he has never voted and does not plan to.
Mr. Rolle said as far as he sees things there are not many politicians who are true leaders in the country.
Although he admits that the MP for his area has his faults, he said he believes he is doing an average job.
September 16th, 2010
jonesbahamas
By IANTHIA SMITH
Supporters and critics of Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament for Garden Hills Brensil Rolle seem to be split on the issue as to whether or not the representative is performing in the area.
The Bahama Journal interviewed 10 Garden Hills residents Wednesday morning to find out how they feel about their MP.
Six out of those 10 constituents said they are not happy with Mr. Rolle’s performance while the remaining four said they were satisfied with what they have been seeing.
"Well he can come around more often and be more visible," one female resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "He needs to come around and try to help as much as he can. Right now in my house only my daughter is working, I’m not working, my son doesn’t have a job and things are tough."
Another male resident agrees.
He said over the years Mr. Rolle has quickly lost the momentum he initially exhibited in the constituency.
"When he first came in power, he seemed to be doing the job," he said. "But now, as you can see, there’s all kind of bush around here that no one would come to cut it down and because there’s all that bush there a lot of robberies that happen around here."
"And the thing is, Mr. Rolle lives right around the corner, it’s not like he’s a stranger. We would go around to him and let him know what’s going on, but still nothing is happening."
But there were several supporters who begged to differ with the negative feedback.
"Everybody has their own feelings," Buster Bethel said. "He doesn’t come around here to see me and he doesn’t come to see my wife, but I don’t care to see him, as long as he’s doing his job."
"He calls constituency meetings every month and those who are interested go to the meetings. Some people are looking for him to go directly to their house. I don’t care to see him, I don’t even care to see him during election time as long as he does his job and I think he is doing what he is supposed to do."
"To me, he’s done more than anyone else who represented this constituency. I feel good about him and I would definitely vote for him again," another woman added.
"So would I," her female family member chimed in.
The Garden Hills constituency is split into three sections; Garden Hills #1, #2, #3.
While some of the constituents did not want to go on record with their comments, many of them said they like the fact that their MP hosts numerous community events like ‘back to school’ and Christmas giveaways.
But for other residents, annual community fun days are simply not enough as they said issues with crime, the economy and unemployment continuously knock at their door.
"We haven’t had a park in this area for so long, actually as long as I have been living here, and that’s about 30 years now," said a male resident who did not want his name printed. "There’s nothing for the kids to do and there’s no spirit in Garden Hills."
"People in the area are hurting; there are no jobs, crime is high in this area and the residents here have a lot of concerns."
"I want to see the area cleaned up, the garbage removed and I want there to be something for the kids to do," a female resident said. "There’s so much to do in this area, so many people need help. While I understand he can’t make everyone’s wishes come true, he can listen to the cries, hear what people have to say."
"If he doesn’t want to come around what can I do," Elaine Scavella asked. "I can’t do anything, but I know one thing, I won’t vote for him or anyone else again."
"He’s doing the best he can and even if that means just putting on an event for us, then that’s good enough," another female resident added. "It isn’t all about finding jobs for people or even giving them things."
Derek Rolle, another Garden Hills resident admitted that he has never voted and does not plan to.
Mr. Rolle said as far as he sees things there are not many politicians who are true leaders in the country.
Although he admits that the MP for his area has his faults, he said he believes he is doing an average job.
September 16th, 2010
jonesbahamas
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Environment Minister Earl Deveaux and Prince Karim Aga Khan lV's helicopter
The Cabinet Minister and the Prince's helicopter
tribune242 editorial
THE PLP never cease to amuse us.
Knowing the party's own free-ride history, we were surprised members would have the temerity to venture into the debate on whether Environment Minister Earl Deveaux should have accepted Prince Karim Aga Khan lV's helicopter to fly him to a meeting with the Bahamas National Trust at the prince's Bell Island development.
The prince's proposal to develop his private island, located within the environmentally sensitive Exuma Land and Sea Park, is now before the cabinet. In the public eye the reason for the flight made Mr Deveaux's helicopter ride precarious.
There were those who believed that Mr Deveaux's acceptance of the prince's hospitality was a conflict of interest.
Of course, the PLP quoted Prime Minister Ingraham's "standards of conduct for ministers of government", which was prompted by Mr Ingraham's alarm on becoming prime minister to find the extent to which the free-wheeling practices of some ministers and civil servants during former prime minister Perry Christie's administration had been honed to a fine art.
"Ministers must avoid accepting any gift or hospitality, which might appear to compromise their judgment or place them under an improper obligation," said a PLP press release quoting from the Ingraham code of conduct.
On the face of it, it would appear that Mr Deveaux had committed an unfortunate indiscretion.
However, Mr Christie also had codes of conduct for his ministers, which were more honoured in their breach.
One only has to speak with Bobby Ginn, the Grand Bahama developer, who at that time had applications before cabinet and/or various government departments, to find out how many times his private aircraft was made available to members of the PLP administration.
It was Mr Ginn's plane that flew Mr Christie to the Cleveland Clinic when he had his medical emergency. Mr Manuel Dias is another one who should be able to recall how many times he accommodated a PLP minister in his private aircraft, as for Mr Gerado Capo of the Bimini Bay development, he should also have many stories to tell of how he routinely had ministers, civil servants and even board members flown back and forth in his private aircraft when his controversial Bimini development was being discussed.
"As a matter of fact," commented someone from the Christie era, "investors flying around PLP ministers and civil servants had reached an alarming level." So alarming, in fact, that when Mr Ingraham became prime minister and saw what was happening, he had to apply the brakes.
However, as another person recalled, the use of private planes by Ministers and other MPs has a long history in the Bahamas -- not all of it with ulterior motives. It was just the accepted practice that if the developer wanted a minister to see what he was doing, he often sent his plane for him, offered him lunch and flew him home.
And now to Minister Deveaux. The Friends of the Environment had invited Mr Deveaux to Hope Town for an early morning premier of a documentary on the "Lionfish Invasion." However, Mr Deveaux had to be back in Nassau that morning to catch an Executive Flight support aircraft to get him to his Bell Island appointment in the Exumas. There was no way that he could fly to Abaco, see the documentary, and get back to Nassau in time to meet the Bahamas National Trust members and Ministry staff to make the scheduled flight to Bell Island. This is where Prince Karim stepped in. The Prince offered his helicopter to fly Mr Deveaux to Marsh Harbour, then back to Nassau to pick up the waiting team, and on to Bell Island. It seemed a practical solution, and Mr Deveaux accepted the hospitality.
Someone who perceived conflict of interest in this arrangement called The Tribune. The next morning a photograph appeared on The Tribune's front page showing Mr Deveaux leaving the Prince's helicopter. Mr Deveaux knew exactly what this meant. Being the man of honour that he is, he did what we expected. He went straight to the Prime Minister's office and offered his resignation.
And the Prime Minister also did what we expected under the circumstances. Recognising that there was no way that a helicopter ride could influence his hard working Minister's decision, or buy his integrity, he refused to accept the resignation.
But, of course, there is that public perception. The cabinet now has to sit down and rethink the rules, so that the public will not have an opportunity in the future to have a set of circumstances occur from which it can draw the wrong conclusions.
September 17, 2010
tribune242 editorial
tribune242 editorial
THE PLP never cease to amuse us.
Knowing the party's own free-ride history, we were surprised members would have the temerity to venture into the debate on whether Environment Minister Earl Deveaux should have accepted Prince Karim Aga Khan lV's helicopter to fly him to a meeting with the Bahamas National Trust at the prince's Bell Island development.
The prince's proposal to develop his private island, located within the environmentally sensitive Exuma Land and Sea Park, is now before the cabinet. In the public eye the reason for the flight made Mr Deveaux's helicopter ride precarious.
There were those who believed that Mr Deveaux's acceptance of the prince's hospitality was a conflict of interest.
Of course, the PLP quoted Prime Minister Ingraham's "standards of conduct for ministers of government", which was prompted by Mr Ingraham's alarm on becoming prime minister to find the extent to which the free-wheeling practices of some ministers and civil servants during former prime minister Perry Christie's administration had been honed to a fine art.
"Ministers must avoid accepting any gift or hospitality, which might appear to compromise their judgment or place them under an improper obligation," said a PLP press release quoting from the Ingraham code of conduct.
On the face of it, it would appear that Mr Deveaux had committed an unfortunate indiscretion.
However, Mr Christie also had codes of conduct for his ministers, which were more honoured in their breach.
One only has to speak with Bobby Ginn, the Grand Bahama developer, who at that time had applications before cabinet and/or various government departments, to find out how many times his private aircraft was made available to members of the PLP administration.
It was Mr Ginn's plane that flew Mr Christie to the Cleveland Clinic when he had his medical emergency. Mr Manuel Dias is another one who should be able to recall how many times he accommodated a PLP minister in his private aircraft, as for Mr Gerado Capo of the Bimini Bay development, he should also have many stories to tell of how he routinely had ministers, civil servants and even board members flown back and forth in his private aircraft when his controversial Bimini development was being discussed.
"As a matter of fact," commented someone from the Christie era, "investors flying around PLP ministers and civil servants had reached an alarming level." So alarming, in fact, that when Mr Ingraham became prime minister and saw what was happening, he had to apply the brakes.
However, as another person recalled, the use of private planes by Ministers and other MPs has a long history in the Bahamas -- not all of it with ulterior motives. It was just the accepted practice that if the developer wanted a minister to see what he was doing, he often sent his plane for him, offered him lunch and flew him home.
And now to Minister Deveaux. The Friends of the Environment had invited Mr Deveaux to Hope Town for an early morning premier of a documentary on the "Lionfish Invasion." However, Mr Deveaux had to be back in Nassau that morning to catch an Executive Flight support aircraft to get him to his Bell Island appointment in the Exumas. There was no way that he could fly to Abaco, see the documentary, and get back to Nassau in time to meet the Bahamas National Trust members and Ministry staff to make the scheduled flight to Bell Island. This is where Prince Karim stepped in. The Prince offered his helicopter to fly Mr Deveaux to Marsh Harbour, then back to Nassau to pick up the waiting team, and on to Bell Island. It seemed a practical solution, and Mr Deveaux accepted the hospitality.
Someone who perceived conflict of interest in this arrangement called The Tribune. The next morning a photograph appeared on The Tribune's front page showing Mr Deveaux leaving the Prince's helicopter. Mr Deveaux knew exactly what this meant. Being the man of honour that he is, he did what we expected. He went straight to the Prime Minister's office and offered his resignation.
And the Prime Minister also did what we expected under the circumstances. Recognising that there was no way that a helicopter ride could influence his hard working Minister's decision, or buy his integrity, he refused to accept the resignation.
But, of course, there is that public perception. The cabinet now has to sit down and rethink the rules, so that the public will not have an opportunity in the future to have a set of circumstances occur from which it can draw the wrong conclusions.
September 17, 2010
tribune242 editorial
Friday, September 17, 2010
Earl Deveaux - Environment Minister - Guilty of Self-incrimination!
By Dennis Dames:
Did the Environment Minister actually resigned, or did he offered his resignation to the prime minister – in light of revelations that he had accepted a free ride in the Aga Khan's helicopter while he had an application before his Ministry?
There is a distinct difference between a resignation, and offering to do the same; so what exactly did the minister do? If the minister was genuine about quitting over the much talked about and legitimate issue – then he would have done the honorable thing; and no one could have changed his mind - in my opinion.
The story got even more embarrassing: Dr Deveaux admitted he accepted a free ride in the Aga Khan's 12-seater luxury helicopter to attend a film screening in Abaco with his wife and two friends before going on to the Aga Khan's private island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park with Bahamas National Trust (BNT) executives to do a land assessment.
How foolish could a government minister be? This is a clear case of conflict of interest that deserves a complete public explanation without further insult on the minister’s behalf.
According to newspaper reports: When Ms Roker's co-host interjected: "So you tendered your resignation?"
"Absolutely," Dr Deveaux said.
How dishonest could Dr. Earl Deveaux be?
Well, if the answer is “absolutely” – then how is it that the environment minister Deveaux is still the environment minister Deveaux?
The answer is clear for all to see; there was NO RESIGNATION!
To add insult to injury, the minister stated further in the press - the following: Dr Deveaux said: "This is not a matter where a minister was compromised in any decision he was making, or in any action he did, and if it is, then every government elected by the Bahamian people should summarily resign, because you find me one that did not use the boat, the plane, the golf cart, or the means to do their job."
Minister Deveaux incriminated himself by the following in my view: Recalling the meals he has shared with investors, and a boat trip when his offer to pay for gas was turned down, Dr Deveaux said the notion these actions compromise his ability to function objectively as Minister of the Environment is "ridiculous".
He maintains he frequently travels in planes and boats belonging to developers, including a plane to see the Ginn project in West End, Grand Bahama, and a boat belonging to the developers of Baker's Bay in Abaco, as he said such means are often necessary for viewing development sites.
To put the icing on the minister’s cake of insult, the following was attributed to him: And Dr Deveaux said the actions he takes are transparent and acceptable by reasonable people.
I imagined that reasonable people are all of us who accept the old saying: The more things change, the more they remain the same.
God help us all.
Bahamas Blog International
Did the Environment Minister actually resigned, or did he offered his resignation to the prime minister – in light of revelations that he had accepted a free ride in the Aga Khan's helicopter while he had an application before his Ministry?
There is a distinct difference between a resignation, and offering to do the same; so what exactly did the minister do? If the minister was genuine about quitting over the much talked about and legitimate issue – then he would have done the honorable thing; and no one could have changed his mind - in my opinion.
The story got even more embarrassing: Dr Deveaux admitted he accepted a free ride in the Aga Khan's 12-seater luxury helicopter to attend a film screening in Abaco with his wife and two friends before going on to the Aga Khan's private island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park with Bahamas National Trust (BNT) executives to do a land assessment.
How foolish could a government minister be? This is a clear case of conflict of interest that deserves a complete public explanation without further insult on the minister’s behalf.
According to newspaper reports: When Ms Roker's co-host interjected: "So you tendered your resignation?"
"Absolutely," Dr Deveaux said.
How dishonest could Dr. Earl Deveaux be?
Well, if the answer is “absolutely” – then how is it that the environment minister Deveaux is still the environment minister Deveaux?
The answer is clear for all to see; there was NO RESIGNATION!
To add insult to injury, the minister stated further in the press - the following: Dr Deveaux said: "This is not a matter where a minister was compromised in any decision he was making, or in any action he did, and if it is, then every government elected by the Bahamian people should summarily resign, because you find me one that did not use the boat, the plane, the golf cart, or the means to do their job."
Minister Deveaux incriminated himself by the following in my view: Recalling the meals he has shared with investors, and a boat trip when his offer to pay for gas was turned down, Dr Deveaux said the notion these actions compromise his ability to function objectively as Minister of the Environment is "ridiculous".
He maintains he frequently travels in planes and boats belonging to developers, including a plane to see the Ginn project in West End, Grand Bahama, and a boat belonging to the developers of Baker's Bay in Abaco, as he said such means are often necessary for viewing development sites.
To put the icing on the minister’s cake of insult, the following was attributed to him: And Dr Deveaux said the actions he takes are transparent and acceptable by reasonable people.
I imagined that reasonable people are all of us who accept the old saying: The more things change, the more they remain the same.
God help us all.
Bahamas Blog International
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Earl Deveaux - Environment Minister - Resignation Sought Over Billionaire Islamic Leader - The Aga Khan Matter
Calls made for Earl Deveaux to resign
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net:
CALLS were made yesterday for the resignation of Environment Minister Earl Deveaux over plans to develop Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
Dr Deveaux said he was minded to approve plans submitted by Island of Discovery Limited, understood to be billionaire Islamic leader the Aga Khan. He also admitted accepting a free ride in the Aga Khan's helicopter to attend a film screening in Abaco before going on to Bell Island with BNT executives the next day.
However, former PLP MP Philip Smith said: "Does this sound familiar to anyone else?
"In late 2006, Shane Gibson, quite correctly, resigned from Cabinet in a similar matter involving a permanent residency permit for an American entertainer.
"Maybe when he tenders his resignation from Cabinet, Dr Deveaux will also tell the Bahamian public how much it will take to buy him since he claims he does not 'think a helicopter ride could buy' him.
"I look forward to reading the resignation statement; or failing this, the letter of dismissal from the Prime Minister."
Plans to dredge and excavate at least 8.8 acres of marine sand flats, rock and vegetation for two channels, 12ft and 14ft deep, a barge landing and 20 slip yacht basin, as well as roads across the 349-acre island, have been passed on to the BNT for their input, Dr Deveaux said.
But after they were revealed in The Tribune yesterday, conservationists opposed to any development in the park expressed further concerns over allegations the BNT accepted a $1 million donation from the Aga Khan last year.
Sam Duncombe, from conservation group reEarth, said: "By allowing development in the park, they are destroying the natural beauty, the ecological diversity and history associated with being the first marine park started in the world.
"Does a million dollars negate this critically important focus?
"If this is the case, the BNT hierarchy should resign immediately followed closely by the Minister for the Environment, because it's painfully clear that they have abandoned their directives."
BNT executive director Eric Carey refused to comment on whether the Trust accepted a donation from the Aga Khan, nor would he state the Trust's position on the Bell Island development despite being the usual spokesman for the Trust.
"This isn't an environmental issue anymore," Mr Carey said.
"It's getting too political.
"This requires input from the board so I will let the president know that a statement is expected and he will meet with his colleagues on the board to address all of the concerns that have been raised."
He said BNT president Neil McKinney is expected to return to Nassau next week.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted by Florida consultants Turrel, Hall and Associates Ltd concluded the development would not have a significant environmental impact and the planning applications state "no negative environmental impacts expected".
But in an area where fishermen are arrested for taking anything within the 112.6 acre park, the possibility of approving plans to dredge and excavate in a zone that has been protected since 1958 has astounded former Exuma MP and PLP Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries George Smith.
He said: "We will arrest a Bahamian from Black Point who passes through the cays and catches a few fish, but we're going to let a man come in, because he's Mr So-and-so, and do dredging to 15ft?
"If it was John Brown from Long Island I think it would be a different story.
"I cannot envision that we would want to see that in the park, where after the dredging, the silt will settle on reefs and on shoals in an area that has not been disrupted from the day it was made a park."
September 15, 2010
tribune242
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net:
CALLS were made yesterday for the resignation of Environment Minister Earl Deveaux over plans to develop Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
Dr Deveaux said he was minded to approve plans submitted by Island of Discovery Limited, understood to be billionaire Islamic leader the Aga Khan. He also admitted accepting a free ride in the Aga Khan's helicopter to attend a film screening in Abaco before going on to Bell Island with BNT executives the next day.
However, former PLP MP Philip Smith said: "Does this sound familiar to anyone else?
"In late 2006, Shane Gibson, quite correctly, resigned from Cabinet in a similar matter involving a permanent residency permit for an American entertainer.
"Maybe when he tenders his resignation from Cabinet, Dr Deveaux will also tell the Bahamian public how much it will take to buy him since he claims he does not 'think a helicopter ride could buy' him.
"I look forward to reading the resignation statement; or failing this, the letter of dismissal from the Prime Minister."
Plans to dredge and excavate at least 8.8 acres of marine sand flats, rock and vegetation for two channels, 12ft and 14ft deep, a barge landing and 20 slip yacht basin, as well as roads across the 349-acre island, have been passed on to the BNT for their input, Dr Deveaux said.
But after they were revealed in The Tribune yesterday, conservationists opposed to any development in the park expressed further concerns over allegations the BNT accepted a $1 million donation from the Aga Khan last year.
Sam Duncombe, from conservation group reEarth, said: "By allowing development in the park, they are destroying the natural beauty, the ecological diversity and history associated with being the first marine park started in the world.
"Does a million dollars negate this critically important focus?
"If this is the case, the BNT hierarchy should resign immediately followed closely by the Minister for the Environment, because it's painfully clear that they have abandoned their directives."
BNT executive director Eric Carey refused to comment on whether the Trust accepted a donation from the Aga Khan, nor would he state the Trust's position on the Bell Island development despite being the usual spokesman for the Trust.
"This isn't an environmental issue anymore," Mr Carey said.
"It's getting too political.
"This requires input from the board so I will let the president know that a statement is expected and he will meet with his colleagues on the board to address all of the concerns that have been raised."
He said BNT president Neil McKinney is expected to return to Nassau next week.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted by Florida consultants Turrel, Hall and Associates Ltd concluded the development would not have a significant environmental impact and the planning applications state "no negative environmental impacts expected".
But in an area where fishermen are arrested for taking anything within the 112.6 acre park, the possibility of approving plans to dredge and excavate in a zone that has been protected since 1958 has astounded former Exuma MP and PLP Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries George Smith.
He said: "We will arrest a Bahamian from Black Point who passes through the cays and catches a few fish, but we're going to let a man come in, because he's Mr So-and-so, and do dredging to 15ft?
"If it was John Brown from Long Island I think it would be a different story.
"I cannot envision that we would want to see that in the park, where after the dredging, the silt will settle on reefs and on shoals in an area that has not been disrupted from the day it was made a park."
September 15, 2010
tribune242
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
The Bahamas is in a national security crisis that’s growing - and the country’s longstanding drug and gang war has only exacerbated the problem
Drug Gangs At War
By IANTHIA SMITH
The country is in a national security crisis, according to the Chairman of the National Youth Council.
In fact, Pastor Dave Burrows said he is not sure if there is an end in sight.
"I think we have a national security crisis that’s growing," he said yesterday while appearing as a guest on Love 97’s daily talk show "Issues of the Day" with host Wendall Jones.
"I don’t see a solution in sight. I see us working in different avenues to try and contain it, but I don’t see a solution in sight."
With 66 homicides already on the books for 2010 and a spate of armed robberies, shootings, stabbings and drug busts still posing a problem, authorities are constantly seeking to allay fears with the reminder that the situation is under control.
But many Bahamians are inclined to agree with Pastor Burrows.
Pastor Burrows has worked tirelessly for years with the country’s youth in a bid to save many of them from the world of drugs, crime and murder at time.
The Bahamas Christian Council once called for the National Youth Service Restorative Programme for Boys to be expanded to include a cross-section of Bahamian youth.
But the programme has since been scrapped.
According to police officials, of the 76 males murdered in 2009, 25 of the victims were under the age of 25.
Fifty-seven males have been murdered so far this year. Police said of this figure, 21 of the victims were under the age of 25.
Echoing sentiments recently expressed by noted psychiatrist Dr. David Allen, Pastor Burrows believes the country’s longstanding drug and gang war has only exacerbated the problem.
"You have a lot of drug retaliation and the incentive to kill in the drug business is higher than in any other business," he said.
But while Pastor Burrows believes the country’s national security is being threatened by the criminal element, he does not place the blame squarely at the government’s feet.
"Basically, in order for society to change, values need to change. You can give a guy a job, but if he has the wrong value system he would still rob people," he said.
"You can develop all kinds of programmes, but if on the inside, people are corrupt or their pursuit is corrupt and they are engrained in negative pursuits, no matter where you place them you will probably still end up with the same results and I don’t see a lot of [change] when it comes to changing the value system. I think our value system is deteriorating rather than getting better."
September 14th, 2010
By IANTHIA SMITH
The country is in a national security crisis, according to the Chairman of the National Youth Council.
In fact, Pastor Dave Burrows said he is not sure if there is an end in sight.
"I think we have a national security crisis that’s growing," he said yesterday while appearing as a guest on Love 97’s daily talk show "Issues of the Day" with host Wendall Jones.
"I don’t see a solution in sight. I see us working in different avenues to try and contain it, but I don’t see a solution in sight."
With 66 homicides already on the books for 2010 and a spate of armed robberies, shootings, stabbings and drug busts still posing a problem, authorities are constantly seeking to allay fears with the reminder that the situation is under control.
But many Bahamians are inclined to agree with Pastor Burrows.
Pastor Burrows has worked tirelessly for years with the country’s youth in a bid to save many of them from the world of drugs, crime and murder at time.
The Bahamas Christian Council once called for the National Youth Service Restorative Programme for Boys to be expanded to include a cross-section of Bahamian youth.
But the programme has since been scrapped.
According to police officials, of the 76 males murdered in 2009, 25 of the victims were under the age of 25.
Fifty-seven males have been murdered so far this year. Police said of this figure, 21 of the victims were under the age of 25.
Echoing sentiments recently expressed by noted psychiatrist Dr. David Allen, Pastor Burrows believes the country’s longstanding drug and gang war has only exacerbated the problem.
"You have a lot of drug retaliation and the incentive to kill in the drug business is higher than in any other business," he said.
But while Pastor Burrows believes the country’s national security is being threatened by the criminal element, he does not place the blame squarely at the government’s feet.
"Basically, in order for society to change, values need to change. You can give a guy a job, but if he has the wrong value system he would still rob people," he said.
"You can develop all kinds of programmes, but if on the inside, people are corrupt or their pursuit is corrupt and they are engrained in negative pursuits, no matter where you place them you will probably still end up with the same results and I don’t see a lot of [change] when it comes to changing the value system. I think our value system is deteriorating rather than getting better."
September 14th, 2010
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