Poor judgement by Minister Deveaux
thenassauguardian editorial
In the end, it is a leader's judgment that matters more than just about any other quality. This is as true for a business executive as it is for a Cabinet minister. This week, the Minister of the Environment's poor judgment was on full display in a number of areas.
This included Minister Earl Deveaux's acceptance of hospitality from various developers. It also included his disclosure of a private conversation with the prime minister.
Cabinet ministers of both parties have accepted hospitality from private sector interests, including air transportation. Accepting hospitality is not in itself unethical, though at times appearances do make an enormous difference. It depends on the nature and degree of the hospitality, and if there are accompanying quid pro quos.
As the opposition continues to discuss recent matters related to the minister, it may want to review its own record. The opposition generally needs to keep the government accountable. But, those with their own questionable practices in dealing with private sector interests should spare us their hypocrisy and grandstanding.
The matter of allowing for development in the Exuma Land and Sea Park is a separate policy matter of which Bahamians should be rightly concerned. On this front the environment minister should be asked some pressing questions.
Still, there is no evidence that Minister Deveaux did anything unethical in terms of any quid pro quos with developers in exchange for favorable review of various outstanding applications on this or other matters.
But, the cavalier manner in which the minister shrugged off the hospitality of various developers in terms of helicopter and airplane rides is stunning. This is not just bad public relations. It suggests a mindset. It is a demonstration of very poor judgment.
This is especially so for someone who is supposed to be a seasoned Cabinet minister. In his sensitive portfolio as environment minister he must be beyond reproach, and must be seen to be beyond reproach.
His statement that he was inclined to approve a developer's application before it was sent to the Bahamas National Trust for review is another example of spectacularly poor judgement. He should not have commented prior to such a review.
The minister has also embarrassed a number of developers who must question his unrestrained public comments. Compounding that lack of restraint, the minister then went on radio later in the week to discuss a private conversation he had with the prime minister in terms of his future as a minister.
Private conversations between a Cabinet member and a president or prime minister must remain private for all sorts of reasons. This includes the trust between that individual and their leader, as well as public trust regarding the conduct of confidential matters.
Minister Deveaux's lack of judgement should be a lesson to both those in opposition and in the government who have or will serve as Cabinet ministers. Considered judgment, common sense and restraint are at the heart of what it means to be a good leader.
9/17/2010
thenassauguardian
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.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Bell Island in the Exuma Land and Sea Park... being unearthed?
Bell Island in the Exuma Land and Sea Park being dredged?
by bahamascitizen
An application to dredge into the sea bed at Bell Island in the Exuma Land and Sea Park has not even been granted as yet, and the developer is already cutting deep into a limestone hill to create a marina.
The island’s developer, The Aga Khan IV of the Aga Khan Development Network, has two grandiose luxury homes that sit on top of two picturesque hills surrounded by plush natural vegetation on Bell Island in the park. Both homes have similar designs and feature areas of glass walls and a box shape that let’s in light at key areas of the homes. Manicured landscapes hug the homes, which are spaced far apart on one of the most beautiful and more elevated islands in the park.
One home sits just below the helicopter pad, which is a clean, grassy area on another hill. It’s the landing pad of the 13-seat helicopter that has been the center of headline stories, as the press and the public seek answers and call for more transparency as it pertains to developments on Crown Land in The Bahamas.
Ever since The Tribune ran a red-letter story disclosing how Environment Minister Earl Deveaux received rides in the Aga Khan’s helicopter, he has been placed in a compromising position in the eyes of the public. The subject has been hot on local talk shows, and members of the media and the public have called for his resignation.
He has handed his resignation into Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham. Media officials and the public are anxious for the Prime Minister to respond to this embarrassing situation for his government that claims to operate on a ‘trust factor’.
The Aga Khan IV has an application before the Ministry of Environment which Minister Earl Deveaux said he was ‘minded to’ approve. It will allow the Aga Khan to create a number of marina slips, dredging up to fifteen feet deep. The public has yet to be told how long and how wide the slips will be, leading out to the sea.
Although the application has not been approved, massive demolition of a portion of the hill has already begun. The portion of excavated hill is about 20 feet deep and has been flattened to sea level, making it easier for excavation of the sea bed once the official approval is granted.
But concerns have been raised as the excavation of the hill and the buildings believed to be housing materials indicates that the developer expects to get the approval. Meantime, the hill has already been cut down, unbeknownst to most of the Bahamian public.
There are two main buildings near the area where demolition is being presently carried out, which are believed to house materials to complete the construction of the marina. The island also features a gazebo near a private beach. The gazebo is draped with sheer, white cloth and exudes romanticism. There is also a development on the other side of the island, where it is believed that workmen reside, as tools and equipment can be seen on the lot, and simple, wooden homes are present.
The hill that has been cut down is close to what appears to be the main home, where two satellite dishes are nestled in the bushes and are used for communication on the island. Bell Island features four amazing, heavenly white sandy beaches.
Once a Crown Land lease is up in 47 years, Bahamian children who today aspire to achieve a lease must be afforded the opportunity. If leasing developers like Aga Khan make major detrimental changes to the landscape, it could destroy the sacred land that belongs to the people of the Bahamas that the Minister of the Environment and the Bahamas National Trust has failed to protect.
The Minister has publicly admitted to accepting rides in the luxury helicopter and said he would “do it again”, while it has been revealed that the managing director at BNT accepted a million-dollar grant from the Bell island developer last year.
September 22, 2010
bahamascitizen
by bahamascitizen
An application to dredge into the sea bed at Bell Island in the Exuma Land and Sea Park has not even been granted as yet, and the developer is already cutting deep into a limestone hill to create a marina.
The island’s developer, The Aga Khan IV of the Aga Khan Development Network, has two grandiose luxury homes that sit on top of two picturesque hills surrounded by plush natural vegetation on Bell Island in the park. Both homes have similar designs and feature areas of glass walls and a box shape that let’s in light at key areas of the homes. Manicured landscapes hug the homes, which are spaced far apart on one of the most beautiful and more elevated islands in the park.
One home sits just below the helicopter pad, which is a clean, grassy area on another hill. It’s the landing pad of the 13-seat helicopter that has been the center of headline stories, as the press and the public seek answers and call for more transparency as it pertains to developments on Crown Land in The Bahamas.
Ever since The Tribune ran a red-letter story disclosing how Environment Minister Earl Deveaux received rides in the Aga Khan’s helicopter, he has been placed in a compromising position in the eyes of the public. The subject has been hot on local talk shows, and members of the media and the public have called for his resignation.
He has handed his resignation into Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham. Media officials and the public are anxious for the Prime Minister to respond to this embarrassing situation for his government that claims to operate on a ‘trust factor’.
The Aga Khan IV has an application before the Ministry of Environment which Minister Earl Deveaux said he was ‘minded to’ approve. It will allow the Aga Khan to create a number of marina slips, dredging up to fifteen feet deep. The public has yet to be told how long and how wide the slips will be, leading out to the sea.
Although the application has not been approved, massive demolition of a portion of the hill has already begun. The portion of excavated hill is about 20 feet deep and has been flattened to sea level, making it easier for excavation of the sea bed once the official approval is granted.
But concerns have been raised as the excavation of the hill and the buildings believed to be housing materials indicates that the developer expects to get the approval. Meantime, the hill has already been cut down, unbeknownst to most of the Bahamian public.
There are two main buildings near the area where demolition is being presently carried out, which are believed to house materials to complete the construction of the marina. The island also features a gazebo near a private beach. The gazebo is draped with sheer, white cloth and exudes romanticism. There is also a development on the other side of the island, where it is believed that workmen reside, as tools and equipment can be seen on the lot, and simple, wooden homes are present.
The hill that has been cut down is close to what appears to be the main home, where two satellite dishes are nestled in the bushes and are used for communication on the island. Bell Island features four amazing, heavenly white sandy beaches.
Once a Crown Land lease is up in 47 years, Bahamian children who today aspire to achieve a lease must be afforded the opportunity. If leasing developers like Aga Khan make major detrimental changes to the landscape, it could destroy the sacred land that belongs to the people of the Bahamas that the Minister of the Environment and the Bahamas National Trust has failed to protect.
The Minister has publicly admitted to accepting rides in the luxury helicopter and said he would “do it again”, while it has been revealed that the managing director at BNT accepted a million-dollar grant from the Bell island developer last year.
September 22, 2010
bahamascitizen
Why are two Nassau Members of Parliament: Fred Mitchell and Alfred Sears playing politics in Grand Bahama
Why are two Nassau MPs playing politics in GB?
thenassauguardian editorial
Apparently there is not enough political wiggle room in Nassau(perhaps because of over-crowding), so two Nassau-based politicians have come to play their political games in Freeport's backyard.
Member of Parliament Fred Mitchell and Member of Parliament Alfred Sears, along with Senator Michael Darville have been on a campaign of sorts in Grand Bahama, addressing all of the major issues taking place on this island.
It all started with the issue at Walter Parker and since that time they have been jumping on every major issue in Grand Bahama, so much so that it seems they may have bought homes here in the second city and have settled in.
While the issue at Walter Parker remains unsettled, Mitchell, Sears and Darville jumped on the MSC trucking issue and have shifted into full gear. On Monday night Sears and Mitchell were on the news giving their take on the trucking situation.
If one didn't know better, they may have thought that they were watching the national news on ZNS, but in truth, they were watching the Northern Bahamas newscast.
Yes, MP Mitchell and MP Sears were at it again.
It's like they have become the new activists for Grand Bahama. Have they both began their political campaigns early? If so, why have they chosen Grand Bahama to be their stage? Over the past few weeks both politicians have used Grand Bahama as the background to get up on their "soap box" and make their voices heard.
That leaves some Grand Bahamians wondering, if these opposition members(who don't even live in or represent Grand Bahama)have so much to say about issues taking place in Grand Bahama, what are Grand Bahama representatives doing?
Even if the reasons behind opposition members' involvement in Grand Bahama affairs may be questionable, the fact is, they are making their voices heard about the issues and at least have something to say. Where are the Grand Bahama representatives, and why are they so silent? Why are they letting" someone else dig up in their backyard" without saying a word?
Grand Bahama is represented by six members of Parliament, of which three are Cabinet ministers. Why haven't any of these representatives spoken out against Mitchell and Sears'"invasion"of their constituencies?
Is there some political rule both Sears and Mitchell have broken, or is it a free-for-all landscape in which all politicians operate?
MP Fred Mitchell represents Fox Hill and MP Alfred Sears represents Fort Charlotte so why are they in Grand Bahama so frequently these days gaining political mileage? No doubt both men are certainly racking up some serious frequent flyer mileage.
Interestingly enough many Grand Bahamians have been silent on the opposition's move on Grand Bahama. Normally, Grand Bahamians may have made some comments about the frequent presence of these two men and would have demanded answers.
Is the political landscape in Grand Bahama changing, or is it due to the fact that economic hard times are so affecting Grand Bahamians that for this moment in time, they don't care who fights for them or which political party they belong too?
If local representatives choose to remain silent, then it is obvious that at least for now, Fred Mitchell and Alfred Sears have a lot to say in Grand Bahama.
9/21/2010
thenassauguardian editorial
thenassauguardian editorial
Apparently there is not enough political wiggle room in Nassau(perhaps because of over-crowding), so two Nassau-based politicians have come to play their political games in Freeport's backyard.
Member of Parliament Fred Mitchell and Member of Parliament Alfred Sears, along with Senator Michael Darville have been on a campaign of sorts in Grand Bahama, addressing all of the major issues taking place on this island.
It all started with the issue at Walter Parker and since that time they have been jumping on every major issue in Grand Bahama, so much so that it seems they may have bought homes here in the second city and have settled in.
While the issue at Walter Parker remains unsettled, Mitchell, Sears and Darville jumped on the MSC trucking issue and have shifted into full gear. On Monday night Sears and Mitchell were on the news giving their take on the trucking situation.
If one didn't know better, they may have thought that they were watching the national news on ZNS, but in truth, they were watching the Northern Bahamas newscast.
Yes, MP Mitchell and MP Sears were at it again.
It's like they have become the new activists for Grand Bahama. Have they both began their political campaigns early? If so, why have they chosen Grand Bahama to be their stage? Over the past few weeks both politicians have used Grand Bahama as the background to get up on their "soap box" and make their voices heard.
That leaves some Grand Bahamians wondering, if these opposition members(who don't even live in or represent Grand Bahama)have so much to say about issues taking place in Grand Bahama, what are Grand Bahama representatives doing?
Even if the reasons behind opposition members' involvement in Grand Bahama affairs may be questionable, the fact is, they are making their voices heard about the issues and at least have something to say. Where are the Grand Bahama representatives, and why are they so silent? Why are they letting" someone else dig up in their backyard" without saying a word?
Grand Bahama is represented by six members of Parliament, of which three are Cabinet ministers. Why haven't any of these representatives spoken out against Mitchell and Sears'"invasion"of their constituencies?
Is there some political rule both Sears and Mitchell have broken, or is it a free-for-all landscape in which all politicians operate?
MP Fred Mitchell represents Fox Hill and MP Alfred Sears represents Fort Charlotte so why are they in Grand Bahama so frequently these days gaining political mileage? No doubt both men are certainly racking up some serious frequent flyer mileage.
Interestingly enough many Grand Bahamians have been silent on the opposition's move on Grand Bahama. Normally, Grand Bahamians may have made some comments about the frequent presence of these two men and would have demanded answers.
Is the political landscape in Grand Bahama changing, or is it due to the fact that economic hard times are so affecting Grand Bahamians that for this moment in time, they don't care who fights for them or which political party they belong too?
If local representatives choose to remain silent, then it is obvious that at least for now, Fred Mitchell and Alfred Sears have a lot to say in Grand Bahama.
9/21/2010
thenassauguardian editorial
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Environment Minister Earl Deveaux Free Ride in the Aga Khan's Helicopter Sparks Public Outcry
Free helicopter ride sparks public outcry
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
tribune242 Insight:
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net:
Environment Minister Earl Deveaux emerged from the Aga Khan's helicopter in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, to attend a Friends of the Environment event with the exhilarated grin of an excited schoolboy.
Having taken up Karim Aga Khan IV's offer to travel in the 12-seater AB-139 instead of chartering a flight, Dr Deveaux, his wife, and two friends, were able to ride in the lap of luxury at their convenience, and the Minister would not be late for a land assessment of Bell Island in Exuma the next day.
But as the Aga Khan is the owner of Bell Island who put the development plans in Dr Deveaux's lap, the childlike excitement on the Minister's face, and the front page of The Tribune last week, masked a darker reality.
The extension of such generosity by this enigmatic Persian prince exposed both himself and the Minister to ridicule and speculation over the process of planning applications and approvals.
And when the development is in an area as sensitive area as the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, it is bound to stir the kind of public debate that hit the airwaves last week.
The 176 square mile park is a jewel of the Bahamas and the world as the oldest protected area of its kind, established in 1958, and a flourishing no-take marine reserve guarded by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT).
The Aga Khan bought the island north of Conch Cut and 17 miles north of Black Point last year and has plans to dredge 8.8 acres of sand from the seabed so he can pull into a newly carved marina on his 150ft yacht.
He also wants the supply barge to be accommodated at a 100ft dock, and have slips for 20 vessels in a 67-acre yacht basin excavated in the existing salt pond, as well as roads across the island.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the project was completed by Turrell, Hall and Associates Inc in March, and passed on to the BNT for further input.
But until The Tribune published details of the plans last week, not a word had been mentioned in the public domain.
The developer had paid for the EIA, the Ministry selected the marine and environmental consultants to do it, and the Trust to contribute to the discussion.
All of the correct protocols were in place and the procedures were duly followed, so processes could tick along smoothly, and the developers could quietly move in.
The public were not asked for their opinion because frankly what they think is irrelevant when Bell Island belongs to the Aga Khan, and it is his right to "renovate" it, just as other owners of private islands also have the right to enhance their personal pieces of the country -- including those in the area of the park.
Even the BNT has little say in the matter, according to a statement released by the board last week.
However, it is precisely this top-down approach that raises questions about the possibility for corruption in our planning and development process.
Especially when a billionaire such as the Aga Khan is in a position to woo a Minister in his AB139, and donate $1 million to the BNT. No one is suggesting that this is what happened in this case, but still the perception is there.
Dr Deveaux said: "I do not think a helicopter ride could buy me and I don't think it could alter my opinion."
But his defence asserts one of two things: either it would take more than one helicopter ride to buy him, or he cannot be corrupted.
I am inclined to believe the latter, which is why I think he was dignified in tendering his resignation, which the Prime Minister refused.
But a less noble man in his position surely would not have done the same.
As the Minister himself asserted, he is quite accustomed to travelling in the planes, boats and automobiles of wealthy developers, and being wined and dined at their expense, but he does not let this affect his judgment of planning applications.
He asserted he had travelled to Ginn Sur Mer's Old Bahama Bay development on the Ginn's boat, and saw Baker's Bay from the developer's jet, as I noted how all of the developments he listed in his argument have been approved.
Whether or not he is corruptible, he is vulnerable to speculation of corruption, and that is reason enough for a major change to be introduced and introduced now.
PLP MP Fred Mitchell suggested Cabinet ministers and government departments are provided with their own fleet of air and watercraft to transport them to far-flung sites across the islands on time, avoiding safety issues, or perceived cosiness with developers.
However, Freeport attorney Fred Smith, QC, advocates a change of the law.
He has been pushing for an Environmental Protection Act, and a Freedom of Information Act, to establish an independent Environmental Protection Agency that would facilitate EIAs, provide access to planning applications, and ensure there is full and proper public consultation over all plans submitted to the Ministry.
Such a system would protect everyone's best interests as residents, businesses, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and all other interested parties would be involved in the debate long before the diggers break ground.
As the lawyer representing Responsible Development for Abaco (RDA) in the request for a Judicial Review seeking to stop work at the $105 million Wilson City power plant, Mr Smith showed how BEC had gone ahead with clearing land, paving roads and building the power plant before they even had all the necessary building permits in place.
Although Supreme Court Justice Hartman Longley dismissed the Abaconian's request on Thursday, he at least acknowledged they had genuine reason for complaint.
The public was not aware of the power plant plans until work started, and when BEC finally agreed to hold a public meeting on the matter it served little purpose other than a place for hundreds of angry Abaconians to vent their anger over being so left out of the critical development of their island.
In that case, as with almost every other, communities were disregarded in the planning process from the beginning, as plans received or conceived of by government departments are assessed and approved from the top down, leaving the people demoralised and devoid of power.
A modified Local Government Act and Environmental Protection Act would allow communities to plan developments five, 10 or 20 years in the future, and create a sustainable model that benefits everyone.
Town councils would have more power to draw up bye-laws for their unique communities, impose local taxes to fund local projects and represent the community in national discussions about the development of their island.
"That's what's called decentralisation and democracy," Mr Smith said.
"And in our geographically fractured nation devolution of power is so necessary.
"It will help the Bahamas develop its marine and land resources in a sustainable manner.
"Because it may be that the people in Exuma have some idea about whether the Aga Khan should be able to proceed."
But when it comes to development in the Bahamas, "the rule of the people" defined by democracy is far from the process of granting planning approval.
We leave such matters in the hands of Ministers and wealthy developers, and when projects are approved, we are only left to speculate over what really happened.
"The current construct lends itself to conflicts, not necessarily intentional or intended, but it just does," said Mr Smith.
"And that's why I have been promoting a more transparent and accountable process, an objective process, which protects the Trust, protects the Minister, and protects the government agencies from the kind of criticism that can be made against them in this case."
Sharing the power of choice in a transparent planning process, which welcomes public consultation, would eradicate that speculation not only in principle, but also in practice.
Planning meetings were the bread and butter of the local newspaper I worked at in East London, England, as development plans ricocheted through the communities causing a stir for all who live and work nearby.
Residents and business owners were invited to view plans for around six weeks before they came to the local government council planning committee where they were debated in a lively public meeting that often continued until the early hours of the morning as everyone was invited to have their say.
Each interested person was invited to speak for three minutes about why a Victorian family home should not be converted into flats, why there should not be another generic block of flats built on what little green land they had left, or why the next door neighbour should not be allowed to extend their home into their own back garden or onto a third floor.
And as the plans were considered from all angles, when they were finally rejected or approved, those in protest at least felt they had been heard.
Development affects everybody, and it is a contentious issue in any community, but even more so in land-starved areas such as London, or ecologically precious areas in the sought after islands of the Bahamas.
Some areas need to be preserved for their environmental benefits, as in the national parks, and some need to be developed to create jobs and keep the economy afloat.
But there is only so much land to share; and in a democratic society, the people should really at least appear to have a say in what gets done.
"If we had an Environmental Protection Act and a Freedom of Information Act, we would at least have a measure of comfort that people can't sneak in the back door and start depleting our resources," Mr Smith said.
"I remain sceptical of private developers approaching the government quietly and the government and Cabinet quietly approving in principle or signing Heads of Agreement or making other non-disclosed arrangements with private developers before the public becomes aware of it.
"This is a continued recipe for disaster.
"This is what caused all of the controversy in Baker's Bay, Bimini and all other places in the Bahamas, including the Ginn project in Grand Bahama.
"I am also told there are several projects planned for East End that lies deep within the bosoms of the Cabinet and none of the citizens of Grand Bahama have any idea of what is being planned for our island communities
"If the Environmental Protection Agency could be isolated from political influence by the Cabinet or ruling party, you would have some kind of check and balance from the kind of incestuous inflection which exists when private developers make their clandestine approaches to government for approval in principle, because once approved in principle, then every government agency simply has to rubber stamp whatever is made.
"You don't just do an EIA to rubber stamp a project.
"Because the developers, like a cancer, are going to eat up every pleasant and unique environment that we have unless we manage it.
"And the only way to manage it is for all vested interests to be a part of considering what's happening."
The change would mean it is not just the Minister and his staff deciding whether the Aga Khan can put a development in the national park, and the issue of him flying around in his helicopter would not arise, because he would not be in that position.
There would instead be independent environmental and planning agencies, not beholden to the executive, making the decisions.
And if such agencies are not established in a new legislative framework soon, the Bahama islands and the resources we all share will gradually disappear in a method that is beyond our control, as those who can afford it break off pieces of our finite islands for themselves and leave the Bahamian people with fractured fragments of their country and no explanation about what happened, and where it all went.
September 20, 2010
tribune242 Insight
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
tribune242 Insight:
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net:
Environment Minister Earl Deveaux emerged from the Aga Khan's helicopter in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, to attend a Friends of the Environment event with the exhilarated grin of an excited schoolboy.
Having taken up Karim Aga Khan IV's offer to travel in the 12-seater AB-139 instead of chartering a flight, Dr Deveaux, his wife, and two friends, were able to ride in the lap of luxury at their convenience, and the Minister would not be late for a land assessment of Bell Island in Exuma the next day.
But as the Aga Khan is the owner of Bell Island who put the development plans in Dr Deveaux's lap, the childlike excitement on the Minister's face, and the front page of The Tribune last week, masked a darker reality.
The extension of such generosity by this enigmatic Persian prince exposed both himself and the Minister to ridicule and speculation over the process of planning applications and approvals.
And when the development is in an area as sensitive area as the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, it is bound to stir the kind of public debate that hit the airwaves last week.
The 176 square mile park is a jewel of the Bahamas and the world as the oldest protected area of its kind, established in 1958, and a flourishing no-take marine reserve guarded by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT).
The Aga Khan bought the island north of Conch Cut and 17 miles north of Black Point last year and has plans to dredge 8.8 acres of sand from the seabed so he can pull into a newly carved marina on his 150ft yacht.
He also wants the supply barge to be accommodated at a 100ft dock, and have slips for 20 vessels in a 67-acre yacht basin excavated in the existing salt pond, as well as roads across the island.
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the project was completed by Turrell, Hall and Associates Inc in March, and passed on to the BNT for further input.
But until The Tribune published details of the plans last week, not a word had been mentioned in the public domain.
The developer had paid for the EIA, the Ministry selected the marine and environmental consultants to do it, and the Trust to contribute to the discussion.
All of the correct protocols were in place and the procedures were duly followed, so processes could tick along smoothly, and the developers could quietly move in.
The public were not asked for their opinion because frankly what they think is irrelevant when Bell Island belongs to the Aga Khan, and it is his right to "renovate" it, just as other owners of private islands also have the right to enhance their personal pieces of the country -- including those in the area of the park.
Even the BNT has little say in the matter, according to a statement released by the board last week.
However, it is precisely this top-down approach that raises questions about the possibility for corruption in our planning and development process.
Especially when a billionaire such as the Aga Khan is in a position to woo a Minister in his AB139, and donate $1 million to the BNT. No one is suggesting that this is what happened in this case, but still the perception is there.
Dr Deveaux said: "I do not think a helicopter ride could buy me and I don't think it could alter my opinion."
But his defence asserts one of two things: either it would take more than one helicopter ride to buy him, or he cannot be corrupted.
I am inclined to believe the latter, which is why I think he was dignified in tendering his resignation, which the Prime Minister refused.
But a less noble man in his position surely would not have done the same.
As the Minister himself asserted, he is quite accustomed to travelling in the planes, boats and automobiles of wealthy developers, and being wined and dined at their expense, but he does not let this affect his judgment of planning applications.
He asserted he had travelled to Ginn Sur Mer's Old Bahama Bay development on the Ginn's boat, and saw Baker's Bay from the developer's jet, as I noted how all of the developments he listed in his argument have been approved.
Whether or not he is corruptible, he is vulnerable to speculation of corruption, and that is reason enough for a major change to be introduced and introduced now.
PLP MP Fred Mitchell suggested Cabinet ministers and government departments are provided with their own fleet of air and watercraft to transport them to far-flung sites across the islands on time, avoiding safety issues, or perceived cosiness with developers.
However, Freeport attorney Fred Smith, QC, advocates a change of the law.
He has been pushing for an Environmental Protection Act, and a Freedom of Information Act, to establish an independent Environmental Protection Agency that would facilitate EIAs, provide access to planning applications, and ensure there is full and proper public consultation over all plans submitted to the Ministry.
Such a system would protect everyone's best interests as residents, businesses, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and all other interested parties would be involved in the debate long before the diggers break ground.
As the lawyer representing Responsible Development for Abaco (RDA) in the request for a Judicial Review seeking to stop work at the $105 million Wilson City power plant, Mr Smith showed how BEC had gone ahead with clearing land, paving roads and building the power plant before they even had all the necessary building permits in place.
Although Supreme Court Justice Hartman Longley dismissed the Abaconian's request on Thursday, he at least acknowledged they had genuine reason for complaint.
The public was not aware of the power plant plans until work started, and when BEC finally agreed to hold a public meeting on the matter it served little purpose other than a place for hundreds of angry Abaconians to vent their anger over being so left out of the critical development of their island.
In that case, as with almost every other, communities were disregarded in the planning process from the beginning, as plans received or conceived of by government departments are assessed and approved from the top down, leaving the people demoralised and devoid of power.
A modified Local Government Act and Environmental Protection Act would allow communities to plan developments five, 10 or 20 years in the future, and create a sustainable model that benefits everyone.
Town councils would have more power to draw up bye-laws for their unique communities, impose local taxes to fund local projects and represent the community in national discussions about the development of their island.
"That's what's called decentralisation and democracy," Mr Smith said.
"And in our geographically fractured nation devolution of power is so necessary.
"It will help the Bahamas develop its marine and land resources in a sustainable manner.
"Because it may be that the people in Exuma have some idea about whether the Aga Khan should be able to proceed."
But when it comes to development in the Bahamas, "the rule of the people" defined by democracy is far from the process of granting planning approval.
We leave such matters in the hands of Ministers and wealthy developers, and when projects are approved, we are only left to speculate over what really happened.
"The current construct lends itself to conflicts, not necessarily intentional or intended, but it just does," said Mr Smith.
"And that's why I have been promoting a more transparent and accountable process, an objective process, which protects the Trust, protects the Minister, and protects the government agencies from the kind of criticism that can be made against them in this case."
Sharing the power of choice in a transparent planning process, which welcomes public consultation, would eradicate that speculation not only in principle, but also in practice.
Planning meetings were the bread and butter of the local newspaper I worked at in East London, England, as development plans ricocheted through the communities causing a stir for all who live and work nearby.
Residents and business owners were invited to view plans for around six weeks before they came to the local government council planning committee where they were debated in a lively public meeting that often continued until the early hours of the morning as everyone was invited to have their say.
Each interested person was invited to speak for three minutes about why a Victorian family home should not be converted into flats, why there should not be another generic block of flats built on what little green land they had left, or why the next door neighbour should not be allowed to extend their home into their own back garden or onto a third floor.
And as the plans were considered from all angles, when they were finally rejected or approved, those in protest at least felt they had been heard.
Development affects everybody, and it is a contentious issue in any community, but even more so in land-starved areas such as London, or ecologically precious areas in the sought after islands of the Bahamas.
Some areas need to be preserved for their environmental benefits, as in the national parks, and some need to be developed to create jobs and keep the economy afloat.
But there is only so much land to share; and in a democratic society, the people should really at least appear to have a say in what gets done.
"If we had an Environmental Protection Act and a Freedom of Information Act, we would at least have a measure of comfort that people can't sneak in the back door and start depleting our resources," Mr Smith said.
"I remain sceptical of private developers approaching the government quietly and the government and Cabinet quietly approving in principle or signing Heads of Agreement or making other non-disclosed arrangements with private developers before the public becomes aware of it.
"This is a continued recipe for disaster.
"This is what caused all of the controversy in Baker's Bay, Bimini and all other places in the Bahamas, including the Ginn project in Grand Bahama.
"I am also told there are several projects planned for East End that lies deep within the bosoms of the Cabinet and none of the citizens of Grand Bahama have any idea of what is being planned for our island communities
"If the Environmental Protection Agency could be isolated from political influence by the Cabinet or ruling party, you would have some kind of check and balance from the kind of incestuous inflection which exists when private developers make their clandestine approaches to government for approval in principle, because once approved in principle, then every government agency simply has to rubber stamp whatever is made.
"You don't just do an EIA to rubber stamp a project.
"Because the developers, like a cancer, are going to eat up every pleasant and unique environment that we have unless we manage it.
"And the only way to manage it is for all vested interests to be a part of considering what's happening."
The change would mean it is not just the Minister and his staff deciding whether the Aga Khan can put a development in the national park, and the issue of him flying around in his helicopter would not arise, because he would not be in that position.
There would instead be independent environmental and planning agencies, not beholden to the executive, making the decisions.
And if such agencies are not established in a new legislative framework soon, the Bahama islands and the resources we all share will gradually disappear in a method that is beyond our control, as those who can afford it break off pieces of our finite islands for themselves and leave the Bahamian people with fractured fragments of their country and no explanation about what happened, and where it all went.
September 20, 2010
tribune242 Insight
Chinese Criminals to Work on The Baha Mar Project: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Nassau Responds to Allegations
Speculation that Chinese criminals may work on Baha Mar 'baseless'
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net:
SPECULATION that thousands of Chinese criminals will be brought in to build Baha Mar have been called baseless allegations by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Nassau.
Concerns raised in the local press suggested the Chinese government has chosen convicts from its overcrowded prisons to work on foreign projects and may do the same when they bring in 8,150 workers to construct Baha Mar.
Editorial writers called on government to exercise due diligence in vetting their work permits if the foreign labour is approved as concerns stemmed from an article published in a Canadian newspaper, The Globe and Mail, which reported that China "has devised a novel strategy to relieve pressure on its overcrowded prisons: Use convicts as labourers on overseas projects in the developing world." It gave as example projects in Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Africa where Chinese labour was used.
But the suggestion that The People's Republic of China may use the $2.6 billion Baha Mar project to export criminals to the Bahamas provoked a clear clarification of the facts from the Chinese embassy.
Liu Liqun, second secretary and press officer at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, said that the allegations are unfounded.
"The Chinese Embassy fully respects each and every view expressed surrounding the Baha Mar project," he stated.
"However, such groundless accusations, which insult not only China, but also those countries having cooperation with us, go beyond tolerance."
Mr Liqun said that the Chinese contractors who have been working tirelessly on the Bahamas National Stadium project, "are disciplined and diligent, winning full respect and high praises from the Bahamian society."
PLP MP Fred Mitchell suggested the reason for speculation over the integrity of Chinese workers could stem from the FNM government's failure to be clear with the public on the issue.
He said: "The government is not exercising any leadership with this project and I think it's deliberate because they want to scuttle the project and that lets in speculation about this or that.
"I think some of the criticism has been exaggerated, but each view should be seriously considered by the authorities to see whether or not it is possible to deal with the concerns.
"However they seem to have the country flailing around wildly without any sense of direction."
A labour resolution tabled by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham in the House of Assembly has paved the way for the approval of work permits for the 8,150 Chinese workers and parliamentarians are expected to debate and vote on the resolution this Wednesday or Thursday.
The ratio of foreign workers to Bahamian employees at Baha Mar is expected to be 71 per cent foreign to 29 per cent Bahamian during the construction phase as agreed in the partnership deal between Baha Mar, the China Export-Import Bank and China State Construction.
Mr Mitchell said the anticipated parliamentary vote is ludicrous as it is the government's responsibility to decide whether the Chinese employees should be permitted to work at Baha Mar or not.
"What business is it of ours to ask Parliament whether or not the government should grant work permits?" he asked.
"I think the whole notion is ludicrous.
"The Prime Minister is looking for political cover because he's afraid to make the decision."
Baha Mar estimates it will take around five years to build six hotels with around 3,500 rooms and condominiums, a 100,000 sq ft casino, 200,000 sq ft of convention facilities, a 20-acre beach and pool experience, an 18-hole golf course and a 60,000 sq ft retail village in Cable Beach.
The project is expected to inject an estimated $1 billion into the Bahamas Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and create almost 11,000 permanent jobs for Bahamians.
September 20, 2010
tribune242
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) statement on the proposed development at Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
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
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
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
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