thenassauguardian
PM: Christie ‘unmanly’
As Parliamentary Commissioner Errol Bethel focuses his attention on the creation of a new voters register, he has become the center of a growing firestorm, with Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham last night calling Opposition Leader Perry Christie ‘cowardly’ and unmanly’ for the Progressive Liberal Party’s recent ‘attack’ on Bethel.
The Free National Movement’s statement quoting Ingraham — who is in Barbados to attend the state funeral of the late Prime Minister David Thompson — came nearly one month after the PLP said it noted with ‘great alarm’ that the government was retaining the services of ‘discredited’ Errol Bethel as parliamentary commissioner.
The PLP said, “The Election Court criticized the parliamentary commissioner in the Pinewood case, where it was found that the egregious errors in the register threatened the ‘integrity of the electoral process’ and ‘the fundamental basis of our parliamentary democracy’.
“The scathing criticism in the Pinewood case was sufficient in our view to (at the very least) cause the parliamentary commissioner to be transferred to another post. Most recently the same parliamentary commissioner was criticized by the Election Court in the Elizabeth case.”
But the FNM statement said, “The PLP’s latest attack on the integrity of the parliamentary registrar is the latest gimmick by a desperate and frustrated party. Despite their attempts to disguise their massive incompetence in office and reckless irresponsibility in opposition, the facts speak louder than the PLP’s empty words. “
Prime Minister Ingraham noted that though issued in the name of the PLP, Christie had to accept full responsibility for the ‘distortions’ in the release.
In its release, the PLP said, “We agree that the fairness of the electoral process and our democracy is under threat.
“But despite this the FNM intends to retain Mr. Bethel. We believe that the holder of the office of parliamentary commissioner should be beyond reproach and also beyond the appearance of reproach. Unfortunately, despite the statements of the Election Court and the admissions of Mr. Bethel, the FNM doggedly intends to retain Mr. Bethel in the same way the prime minister refused to accept the resignation of the minister of the environment (Earl Deveaux).
“The current parliamentary commissioner should be transferred, in the public interest, and a new and competent parliamentary commissioner appointed so as to ensure the integrity of the registration process and of the register.”
But in the FNM’s statement, the prime minister observed that Bethel was first appointed to the Parliamentary Registration Department under a PLP administration.
Bethel held the position of parliamentary commissioner in 1997 when the FNM was re-elected to office, in 2002 when the PLP was elected, and remained in the post during the 2007 general election, when the FNM was re-elected.
Ingraham emphasized that the PLP had no prior objections to Mr. Bethel. He noted that the PLP had not sought to replace Bethel ahead of the 2007 general election, which was organized and run on its watch.
According to the FNM’s statement, “Ingraham lamented that it was cowardly and unmanly for Mr. Christie to attempt to shift blame for his inaction, laziness and failures in office to a dedicated public servant.
“It was Mr. Christie who was solely responsible for disregarding and ignoring the constitutional requirements regarding the timely appointment of the Boundaries Commission.
“It was Mr. Christie and his party who were late again in redrawing constituency boundaries. It was Mr. Christie and the PLP who were late in presenting the Commission’s report to Parliament.”
The FNM statement said the reality is that in a 15 year period during which three general elections were held, the only time that confusion developed with the parliamentary registrar was on Christie’s watch.
Still, the PLP continues to blame Bethel for the confusion in the preparation of the 2007 parliamentary register, it added.
“The prime minister reminds Mr. Christie, who should know better, that the parliamentary commissioner has no ability to influence the timing of the appointment of the Boundaries [Commission] or the redrawing of the boundaries or the Commission’s report to Parliament,” the FNM said.
Ingraham reiterated his confidence in the commissioner and his staff.
The prime minister said that if the PLP believes it left a clean parliamentary register in place in 2007, the FNM would be happy to hold new elections on the existing register.
11/3/2010
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.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Hubert Ingraham versus Perry Christie - and the emerging Chinese superpower
Another Watershed for Ingraham & Christie
by Simon
bahamapundit
Hubert Ingraham arrived in China in a strong and enviable position. Much of this comes from the office he holds as Prime Minister of a strategically-located Bahamas with diverse and impressive assets relative to our size.
Moreover, a considerable amount of the Prime Minister’s strengthened position is rooted in his character and experience, including a combination of international experience and domestic credibility.
The posture with which Mr. Ingraham has travelled to the emerging Chinese superpower is in obvious and stark contrast to the posture with which former Prime Minister Perry Christie would have made this journey.
Mr. Christie would have gone in a considerably weaker position for reasons rooted in his political character, including an operating style marked by indecision and pandering.
Whereas Mr. Ingraham enters into a negotiation with some inscrutability and poker-faced, Mr. Christie is generally an easy mark, easy to read and easy to push over. Bahamians know that Mr. Ingraham will always drive a harder bargain while Mr. Christie is prone to give away the store.
Domestic Credibility: On the eve of his departure for China, Mr. Ingraham and his predecessor, Opposition Leader, Perry Christie each held a press conference. In tone and substance they were a study in contrast.
Mr. Ingraham noted that Baha Mar was among one of a wide range of issues on the agenda during his trip. The Leader of the Opposition’s press conference focused almost exclusively on Baha Mar, with little reference to various other bilateral matters. Yet, what they both said about Baha Mar was revealing.
WATERSHED
The debate over Baha Mar has been another watershed for these former law partners and cabinet colleagues. The current debate is etching into the national consciousness the essential differences between the men in terms of vision, character and governance.
In his brief statement at a press conference in which Dr. Bernard Nottage took the lead in outlining the PLP’s position on Baha Mar, Mr. Christie left little doubt that he would have headed to China mostly as the gushing representative of Baha Mar.
In one of the most disturbing public performances by someone who served as prime minister, Mr. Christie all but abandoned the national interest in the favour of a private interest. It is an interest that has repeatedly demonstrated that it lacked the vision, track record and wherewithal to redevelop Cable Beach. Indeed, Baha Mar has repeatedly failed to meet various deadlines over the course of several years.
Just in September, Mr. Sarkis Izmirlian, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Baha Mar spoke at a 25th anniversary event marking the China State Construction and Engineering Company’s presence in the United States.
“As some of you may know, my family and I have a vision for the country of The Bahamas, and its huge potential for tourism. We were approached by the Bahamian Government to consider redeveloping a beautiful area of Nassau called Cable Beach.”
Mr. Izmirlian also spoke glowingly that a successful Baha Mar project would “showcase to the world China State’s ability to deliver an intricately designed, and complex, resort metropolis on a somewhat remote island in The Caribbean.”
So, what exactly is Mr. Izmirilian’s vision for The Bahamas, and when exactly did we outsource that vision to a private developer? And, when did New Providence become a “somewhat remote island in the Caribbean?”
Mr. Izmirlian may want to check this bit of condescension and take note that many Bahamians do not find his vision for Cable Beach in the country’s broader interest. But it is not primarily Mr. Izmirlian who the Bahamian people are questioning.
EQUITABLE DEAL
Bahamians continue to wonder why Mr. Christie and the PLP chose the family in question to redevelop one of the more valued tourism sites in the country. Whatever the reasons, the PLP cannot shirk responsibility for the fact that it is because of that choice that we are in the position we are today. Because of Baha Mar’s lack of resources, the company turned to China for financing.
The genesis and convoluted nature of the Baha Mar project rest with Mr. Christie. As the drama at Baha Mar continues to unfold, Mr. Christie and the PLP have delivered a series of mixed and often incoherent messages. This rambling has damaged their domestic credibility on Baha Mar and related matters.
While Mr. Ingraham has repeatedly stressed that his overriding concern is an equitable deal for The Bahamas, the PLP and Mr. Christie have shown divided loyalties on the Baha Mar project. Sometimes, their posturing and pandering has been comical.
Having agreed to Chinese workers building the new National Stadium and signalling that they would agree to a considerable Chinese presence to build Baha Mar, the PLP voted against allowing Chinese workers to construct the Gateway Road Project.
Never mind that there would be Bahamian workers on the road project and that the terms of the loan were quite generous. The PLP sought to score a political brownie point and ride a wave of hysteria about a Chinese takeover. Not only did most Bahamians see through such an obvious ploy, so did the Chinese Government.
In striking contrast, Ingraham has demonstrated to the Chinese that while he is prepared to do business with them, that it must be mutually beneficial to both countries. He has refrained from any China-bashing in order to pander to some elements of the populace. Undoubtedly, the Chinese have taken note.
The Chinese must also be bemused and amused by Mr. Christie’s chest-thumping on the National Stadium. The stadium is a typical gift of the Chinese Government after the launch of diplomatic relations with a developing country.
In this case, those relations were established during a previous Ingraham administration. Moreover, even after the offer of a national stadium, the Christie administration, in typical fashion, failed to get the construction started.
FAVOURABLE COMMENTARY
The Prime Minister’s tough pre-trip stance to the Chinese Government of what may be acceptable regarding Baha Mar has earned him favourable commentary in various quarters in the Caribbean. Most Bahamians are relieved that it is Mr. Ingraham and not Mr. Christie who has journeyed to China to negotiate on the country’s behalf.
International Experience: Mr. Ingraham’s domestic credibility boosts and mirrors his credibility with the Chinese Government. That credibility is reinforced by Mr. Ingraham’s decisiveness. Reportedly, the Chinese were as frustrated by Mr. Christie’s late-again manner as were the Bahamian people.
Mr. Ingraham appointed two senior figures as Bahamian Ambassador to China, including Sir Arthur Foulkes who was non-resident and former cabinet minister Elma Chase Campbell, the first resident Ambassador. While the PLP did eventually send a resident diplomat to China, it took a while and he was a relatively junior civil servant.
It is a no-brainer for the Chinese which Bahamian leader they trust to talk straight to them. It is the man and the leader of the party which, in 1997, inaugurated diplomatic relations with the most populous country on earth. It decidedly is not the leader of the party that was about to send an ambassador to Taiwan if it had won re-election.
The Chinese also respect seniority. This is the Prime Minister’s second official visit to China, his first having occurred 13 years ago. Mr. Ingraham’s international resume is extensive as a senior head of government in the Americas. He has served as Chairman of Caricom on various occasions, where he is the senior leader in the regional grouping.
Prime Minister Ingraham has overseen the bilateral interests of The Bahamas with three American Presidents from Bill Clinton to George W. Bush to Barack Obama. Recently, he was elected to chair the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group.
One of the press reports following Mr. Ingraham’s election noted: “The chairman’s country should also be in good standing in the international community, and the person selected to be chairman is expected to be widely respected among finance and development officials.”
The Chinese will have all of this information in their briefing notes on Mr. Ingraham as he and his delegation travel from Hong Kong to Beijing to Shanghai and are hosted at various meals.
They will find in Hubert Ingraham an appreciative guest. Yet, they will also discover, like Mr. Izmirlian, that the current Bahamian Prime Minister will not be swayed by pomp and circumstance or flattery and a few nice meals.
bahamapundit
by Simon
bahamapundit
Hubert Ingraham arrived in China in a strong and enviable position. Much of this comes from the office he holds as Prime Minister of a strategically-located Bahamas with diverse and impressive assets relative to our size.
Moreover, a considerable amount of the Prime Minister’s strengthened position is rooted in his character and experience, including a combination of international experience and domestic credibility.
The posture with which Mr. Ingraham has travelled to the emerging Chinese superpower is in obvious and stark contrast to the posture with which former Prime Minister Perry Christie would have made this journey.
Mr. Christie would have gone in a considerably weaker position for reasons rooted in his political character, including an operating style marked by indecision and pandering.
Whereas Mr. Ingraham enters into a negotiation with some inscrutability and poker-faced, Mr. Christie is generally an easy mark, easy to read and easy to push over. Bahamians know that Mr. Ingraham will always drive a harder bargain while Mr. Christie is prone to give away the store.
Domestic Credibility: On the eve of his departure for China, Mr. Ingraham and his predecessor, Opposition Leader, Perry Christie each held a press conference. In tone and substance they were a study in contrast.
Mr. Ingraham noted that Baha Mar was among one of a wide range of issues on the agenda during his trip. The Leader of the Opposition’s press conference focused almost exclusively on Baha Mar, with little reference to various other bilateral matters. Yet, what they both said about Baha Mar was revealing.
WATERSHED
The debate over Baha Mar has been another watershed for these former law partners and cabinet colleagues. The current debate is etching into the national consciousness the essential differences between the men in terms of vision, character and governance.
In his brief statement at a press conference in which Dr. Bernard Nottage took the lead in outlining the PLP’s position on Baha Mar, Mr. Christie left little doubt that he would have headed to China mostly as the gushing representative of Baha Mar.
In one of the most disturbing public performances by someone who served as prime minister, Mr. Christie all but abandoned the national interest in the favour of a private interest. It is an interest that has repeatedly demonstrated that it lacked the vision, track record and wherewithal to redevelop Cable Beach. Indeed, Baha Mar has repeatedly failed to meet various deadlines over the course of several years.
Just in September, Mr. Sarkis Izmirlian, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Baha Mar spoke at a 25th anniversary event marking the China State Construction and Engineering Company’s presence in the United States.
“As some of you may know, my family and I have a vision for the country of The Bahamas, and its huge potential for tourism. We were approached by the Bahamian Government to consider redeveloping a beautiful area of Nassau called Cable Beach.”
Mr. Izmirlian also spoke glowingly that a successful Baha Mar project would “showcase to the world China State’s ability to deliver an intricately designed, and complex, resort metropolis on a somewhat remote island in The Caribbean.”
So, what exactly is Mr. Izmirilian’s vision for The Bahamas, and when exactly did we outsource that vision to a private developer? And, when did New Providence become a “somewhat remote island in the Caribbean?”
Mr. Izmirlian may want to check this bit of condescension and take note that many Bahamians do not find his vision for Cable Beach in the country’s broader interest. But it is not primarily Mr. Izmirlian who the Bahamian people are questioning.
EQUITABLE DEAL
Bahamians continue to wonder why Mr. Christie and the PLP chose the family in question to redevelop one of the more valued tourism sites in the country. Whatever the reasons, the PLP cannot shirk responsibility for the fact that it is because of that choice that we are in the position we are today. Because of Baha Mar’s lack of resources, the company turned to China for financing.
The genesis and convoluted nature of the Baha Mar project rest with Mr. Christie. As the drama at Baha Mar continues to unfold, Mr. Christie and the PLP have delivered a series of mixed and often incoherent messages. This rambling has damaged their domestic credibility on Baha Mar and related matters.
While Mr. Ingraham has repeatedly stressed that his overriding concern is an equitable deal for The Bahamas, the PLP and Mr. Christie have shown divided loyalties on the Baha Mar project. Sometimes, their posturing and pandering has been comical.
Having agreed to Chinese workers building the new National Stadium and signalling that they would agree to a considerable Chinese presence to build Baha Mar, the PLP voted against allowing Chinese workers to construct the Gateway Road Project.
Never mind that there would be Bahamian workers on the road project and that the terms of the loan were quite generous. The PLP sought to score a political brownie point and ride a wave of hysteria about a Chinese takeover. Not only did most Bahamians see through such an obvious ploy, so did the Chinese Government.
In striking contrast, Ingraham has demonstrated to the Chinese that while he is prepared to do business with them, that it must be mutually beneficial to both countries. He has refrained from any China-bashing in order to pander to some elements of the populace. Undoubtedly, the Chinese have taken note.
The Chinese must also be bemused and amused by Mr. Christie’s chest-thumping on the National Stadium. The stadium is a typical gift of the Chinese Government after the launch of diplomatic relations with a developing country.
In this case, those relations were established during a previous Ingraham administration. Moreover, even after the offer of a national stadium, the Christie administration, in typical fashion, failed to get the construction started.
FAVOURABLE COMMENTARY
The Prime Minister’s tough pre-trip stance to the Chinese Government of what may be acceptable regarding Baha Mar has earned him favourable commentary in various quarters in the Caribbean. Most Bahamians are relieved that it is Mr. Ingraham and not Mr. Christie who has journeyed to China to negotiate on the country’s behalf.
International Experience: Mr. Ingraham’s domestic credibility boosts and mirrors his credibility with the Chinese Government. That credibility is reinforced by Mr. Ingraham’s decisiveness. Reportedly, the Chinese were as frustrated by Mr. Christie’s late-again manner as were the Bahamian people.
Mr. Ingraham appointed two senior figures as Bahamian Ambassador to China, including Sir Arthur Foulkes who was non-resident and former cabinet minister Elma Chase Campbell, the first resident Ambassador. While the PLP did eventually send a resident diplomat to China, it took a while and he was a relatively junior civil servant.
It is a no-brainer for the Chinese which Bahamian leader they trust to talk straight to them. It is the man and the leader of the party which, in 1997, inaugurated diplomatic relations with the most populous country on earth. It decidedly is not the leader of the party that was about to send an ambassador to Taiwan if it had won re-election.
The Chinese also respect seniority. This is the Prime Minister’s second official visit to China, his first having occurred 13 years ago. Mr. Ingraham’s international resume is extensive as a senior head of government in the Americas. He has served as Chairman of Caricom on various occasions, where he is the senior leader in the regional grouping.
Prime Minister Ingraham has overseen the bilateral interests of The Bahamas with three American Presidents from Bill Clinton to George W. Bush to Barack Obama. Recently, he was elected to chair the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group.
One of the press reports following Mr. Ingraham’s election noted: “The chairman’s country should also be in good standing in the international community, and the person selected to be chairman is expected to be widely respected among finance and development officials.”
The Chinese will have all of this information in their briefing notes on Mr. Ingraham as he and his delegation travel from Hong Kong to Beijing to Shanghai and are hosted at various meals.
They will find in Hubert Ingraham an appreciative guest. Yet, they will also discover, like Mr. Izmirlian, that the current Bahamian Prime Minister will not be swayed by pomp and circumstance or flattery and a few nice meals.
bahamapundit
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Term limits need to be enshrined in The Bahamian constitution...
Term limits needed in The Bahamas
thenassauguardian editorial
The Westminster political system does not call for term limits. Candidates can offer for the job as prime minister as many times as they wish.
There are supposed to be several checks and balances in the system, however, which ensure no one person is able to stay on in the post in perpetuity.
The main check should be competitive democratic political parties. If many candidates have a chance to be leader, it would be difficult for ineffective leaders, or those past their prime, to stay on.
In The Bahamas, and in the democratic developing world in general, we lack this important component of an evolved political culture.
Hubert Ingraham has led the Free National Movement for most of the last two decades. The party has tied its fate to him. Ingraham is the FNM.
Since 1959, the Progressive Liberal Party and the communist regime in Cuba have something in common: Both entities have had only two leaders. Perry Christie and Sir Lynden have been the only two PLP leaders over that period.
Any discussion of term limits in The Bahamas is often perceived as a condemnation of Ingraham who is serving in his third, non-consecutive term in office. This is not. He has done well during his years in public service.
However, no country or business survives and thrives in the long-term if it relies on the leadership of one man.
Founders of businesses eventually cede control to executives and boards. No matter how talented the individual, time and exhaustion catch up with us all.
All leaders, commercial and political, begin to lose touch with the moods, desires and aspirations of the people as time goes by.
It would seem reasonable that the term limit for the post of prime minister be set at two or three terms. This would mean no person could serve as PM for more than 10 or 15 years.
The United States was forced to set limits on holding the office of president after Franklin D. Roosevelt won his fourth term. He died in office. Two terms is now the law in the U.S.
Term limits need to be enshrined in The Bahamian constitution so that no political party could change the rules to the benefit of the party.
11/1/2010
thenassauguardian editorial
thenassauguardian editorial
The Westminster political system does not call for term limits. Candidates can offer for the job as prime minister as many times as they wish.
There are supposed to be several checks and balances in the system, however, which ensure no one person is able to stay on in the post in perpetuity.
The main check should be competitive democratic political parties. If many candidates have a chance to be leader, it would be difficult for ineffective leaders, or those past their prime, to stay on.
In The Bahamas, and in the democratic developing world in general, we lack this important component of an evolved political culture.
Hubert Ingraham has led the Free National Movement for most of the last two decades. The party has tied its fate to him. Ingraham is the FNM.
Since 1959, the Progressive Liberal Party and the communist regime in Cuba have something in common: Both entities have had only two leaders. Perry Christie and Sir Lynden have been the only two PLP leaders over that period.
Any discussion of term limits in The Bahamas is often perceived as a condemnation of Ingraham who is serving in his third, non-consecutive term in office. This is not. He has done well during his years in public service.
However, no country or business survives and thrives in the long-term if it relies on the leadership of one man.
Founders of businesses eventually cede control to executives and boards. No matter how talented the individual, time and exhaustion catch up with us all.
All leaders, commercial and political, begin to lose touch with the moods, desires and aspirations of the people as time goes by.
It would seem reasonable that the term limit for the post of prime minister be set at two or three terms. This would mean no person could serve as PM for more than 10 or 15 years.
The United States was forced to set limits on holding the office of president after Franklin D. Roosevelt won his fourth term. He died in office. Two terms is now the law in the U.S.
Term limits need to be enshrined in The Bahamian constitution so that no political party could change the rules to the benefit of the party.
11/1/2010
thenassauguardian editorial
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Terry Bain - spokesman for Save The Exuma Park (STEP) committee has criticised the Bahamas National Trust for not opposing dredging and excavation at Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park...
Call for ban on development in national parks
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net
AN EXUMA activist has criticised the Bahamas National Trust for not opposing dredging and excavation at Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park as he calls for development in all national parks to be banned.
Terry Bain, spokesman for Save The Exuma Park (STEP) committee, is outraged at the granting of permission to dredge and excavate more than 13 acres of land and seabed around Bell Island in the Exuma park and the apparent compliance of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT).
Mr Bain spoke out on behalf of STEP's 180 members at a public meeting called by the BNT in Great Exuma last Thursday to discuss the Bell Island development with members of the community.
He said it was not made clear at the meeting that the Department of Physical Planning had already granted permission to excavate 4.32 acres of upland area for a yacht basin, 2.56 acres of seabed for an outer channel, 4.28 acres of marine area for a barge landing and a further 1.9 acres of seabed for the outer area of the barge landing on September 21.
Local tour boat operators spoke out at the meeting claiming dredging is already being done at Bell Island; claims flatly denied at the meeting by BNT executive director Eric Carey.
Conditions of the permit state an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) must be approved by the Bahamas Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Commission before work can begin, and the EMP is expected by Mr Carey this week.
Plans were submitted by Islands of Discovery Ltd after Islamic spiritual leader and billionaire Prince Karim Aga Khan IV bought the island last year.
Details of the development emerged as Environment Minister Earl Deveaux confirmed he had accepted the offer of free transportation in the Aga Khan's helicopter to travel to Abaco with his wife and two friends to attend a public event before going on to Bell Island to conduct a land assessment the next day. In answer to his critics, Minister Deveaux said that in no way did this courtesy by the Aga Khan to make it possible for him to attend the two meetings -- one in Abaco, the other in Bell Island -- influence his decision on the Bell Island application.
It was also alleged by Tribune sources that the Aga Khan donated $1 million to the BNT after he purchased the island.
Mr Carey has issued no comment on the donation claim, however a BNT statement on the development maintains: "Every landowner in the park has contributed generously to the funding of the BNT."
Mr Bain said: "The Trust has gone along with every development in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, and I have been trying to save the Trust from themselves by trying to keep development out of the parks."
STEP has been lobbying for an amendment in the BNT Act to prevent development in the Exuma park and all national parks across the Bahamas since the group was founded 17 years ago.
But recent amendments passed in Parliament do not include such changes, and STEP now continues to fight a battle Mr Bain says the BNT should fight for itself.
The activist of Farmer's Cay, Exuma, further stated how locals and fishermen find development in the 176 square mile park hard to accept as they are prohibited from taking anything within its boundaries.
In an editorial column published in The Exuma Breeze this month, Mr Bain called on all Bahamians to speak out against development in the Exuma park and all national parks.
October 29, 2010
tribune242
By MEGAN REYNOLDS
Tribune Staff Reporter
mreynolds@tribunemedia.net
AN EXUMA activist has criticised the Bahamas National Trust for not opposing dredging and excavation at Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park as he calls for development in all national parks to be banned.
Terry Bain, spokesman for Save The Exuma Park (STEP) committee, is outraged at the granting of permission to dredge and excavate more than 13 acres of land and seabed around Bell Island in the Exuma park and the apparent compliance of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT).
Mr Bain spoke out on behalf of STEP's 180 members at a public meeting called by the BNT in Great Exuma last Thursday to discuss the Bell Island development with members of the community.
He said it was not made clear at the meeting that the Department of Physical Planning had already granted permission to excavate 4.32 acres of upland area for a yacht basin, 2.56 acres of seabed for an outer channel, 4.28 acres of marine area for a barge landing and a further 1.9 acres of seabed for the outer area of the barge landing on September 21.
Local tour boat operators spoke out at the meeting claiming dredging is already being done at Bell Island; claims flatly denied at the meeting by BNT executive director Eric Carey.
Conditions of the permit state an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) must be approved by the Bahamas Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Commission before work can begin, and the EMP is expected by Mr Carey this week.
Plans were submitted by Islands of Discovery Ltd after Islamic spiritual leader and billionaire Prince Karim Aga Khan IV bought the island last year.
Details of the development emerged as Environment Minister Earl Deveaux confirmed he had accepted the offer of free transportation in the Aga Khan's helicopter to travel to Abaco with his wife and two friends to attend a public event before going on to Bell Island to conduct a land assessment the next day. In answer to his critics, Minister Deveaux said that in no way did this courtesy by the Aga Khan to make it possible for him to attend the two meetings -- one in Abaco, the other in Bell Island -- influence his decision on the Bell Island application.
It was also alleged by Tribune sources that the Aga Khan donated $1 million to the BNT after he purchased the island.
Mr Carey has issued no comment on the donation claim, however a BNT statement on the development maintains: "Every landowner in the park has contributed generously to the funding of the BNT."
Mr Bain said: "The Trust has gone along with every development in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, and I have been trying to save the Trust from themselves by trying to keep development out of the parks."
STEP has been lobbying for an amendment in the BNT Act to prevent development in the Exuma park and all national parks across the Bahamas since the group was founded 17 years ago.
But recent amendments passed in Parliament do not include such changes, and STEP now continues to fight a battle Mr Bain says the BNT should fight for itself.
The activist of Farmer's Cay, Exuma, further stated how locals and fishermen find development in the 176 square mile park hard to accept as they are prohibited from taking anything within its boundaries.
In an editorial column published in The Exuma Breeze this month, Mr Bain called on all Bahamians to speak out against development in the Exuma park and all national parks.
October 29, 2010
tribune242
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Whitney Bastian confirmed that he intends to run as an Independent in the next general election and regain his South Andros seat in the House of Assembly
WHITNEY BASTIAN SET TO RUN AS INDEPENDENT
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
FORMER MP for South Andros, Whitney Bastian, confirmed with The Tribune last night that he intends to run as an Independent in the next general election and regain his seat in the House of Assembly.
Lambasting the area's current MP Picewell Forbes, Mr Bastian claimed that Mr Forbes is "not representing" the people in the area.
Mr Bastian says Mr Forbes is losing significant support in the Mangrove Cay area, and if the South Andros seat is cut the way he thinks it will be, he will win the seat "hands down."
"When you look at it, everytime a PLP MP gets up to speak, Picewell is sitting behind them. He is the only floating MP in the House," said Mr Bastian.
Claiming to have more support in the area now than he even had when he was elected to Parliament in 2002, Mr Bastian added that Mr Forbes cannot continue to cry "poor mouth" when it comes to being able to at least visit his people.
"I would have thought that since he doesn't have a headquarters that if the government is paying him $18,000 a year (to manage it), he should have some money somewhere because he never created an office. So if you look at his MP's salary of $28,000 and then he gets a travel allowance to visit his constituency - they even give him a per diem. So he can't find no excuse."
And when it comes to campaigning for the next general election, Mr Bastian said he will in no way be spending the amounts of money that he has spent in the past on the last two general elections.
"I don't have intentions of spending the money I spent before. If the people want me they will vote for me. If they vote for me, I will serve to the best of my ability. In terms of spending what I spent in the last two elections you don't have to worry about that ever again.
"We have to break that habit in South Andros. Because people who do things like that feel like they don't owe the people anything. But people on the Family Islands only need assistance. They only want you to point them in the right direction to get things done. They don't need you to put ya hand in your pocket. But the only way to understand the needs of the people is to sit down an' talk with them."
October 29, 2010
tribune242
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
FORMER MP for South Andros, Whitney Bastian, confirmed with The Tribune last night that he intends to run as an Independent in the next general election and regain his seat in the House of Assembly.
Lambasting the area's current MP Picewell Forbes, Mr Bastian claimed that Mr Forbes is "not representing" the people in the area.
Mr Bastian says Mr Forbes is losing significant support in the Mangrove Cay area, and if the South Andros seat is cut the way he thinks it will be, he will win the seat "hands down."
"When you look at it, everytime a PLP MP gets up to speak, Picewell is sitting behind them. He is the only floating MP in the House," said Mr Bastian.
Claiming to have more support in the area now than he even had when he was elected to Parliament in 2002, Mr Bastian added that Mr Forbes cannot continue to cry "poor mouth" when it comes to being able to at least visit his people.
"I would have thought that since he doesn't have a headquarters that if the government is paying him $18,000 a year (to manage it), he should have some money somewhere because he never created an office. So if you look at his MP's salary of $28,000 and then he gets a travel allowance to visit his constituency - they even give him a per diem. So he can't find no excuse."
And when it comes to campaigning for the next general election, Mr Bastian said he will in no way be spending the amounts of money that he has spent in the past on the last two general elections.
"I don't have intentions of spending the money I spent before. If the people want me they will vote for me. If they vote for me, I will serve to the best of my ability. In terms of spending what I spent in the last two elections you don't have to worry about that ever again.
"We have to break that habit in South Andros. Because people who do things like that feel like they don't owe the people anything. But people on the Family Islands only need assistance. They only want you to point them in the right direction to get things done. They don't need you to put ya hand in your pocket. But the only way to understand the needs of the people is to sit down an' talk with them."
October 29, 2010
tribune242
Friday, October 29, 2010
Picewell Forbes is reportedly beginning to lose considerable ground in his South Andros constituency
PICEWELL FORBES 'LOSING GROUND IN CONSTITUENCY'
tribune242
ALTHOUGH winning his seat by the largest margin out of any candidate in the 2007 general election, Picewell Forbes, the PLP's Member of Parliament for South Andros, is reportedly beginning to lose considerable ground in his constituency.
As a first time MP for the area, Mr Forbes's financial woes have been known for some time - and with a general election less than two years away it appears as if this factor is not being overlooked by his competitors.
Reports suggest that the former MP for the area, Whitney Bastian, still wants to represent the constituency, and with his financial prowess, he could prove to be a considerable obstacle for Mr Forbes.
Political sources claim that Andros - more so than any other seat in the Bahamas - is one area where a candidate without substantial amounts of money cannot be expected to win.
The Tribune source said: "Let me tell you, in Andros you have to dig in your pocket from the time you land until you fly out of there.
"It's like that mindset was established years ago when Sir Lynden (Pindling) was representing them, so it's hard to break that - no matter who you are.
"And it doesn't matter if your MP is doing a good job or not.
"He or she could be in there every other week, walking up and down, shaking hands, kissing babies, attending every funeral, wedding, and pastoral anointing, and yet be voted out because they are unable to provide a contract for their generals."
Attempts to reach Mr Forbes for comment were unsuccessful.
October 27, 2010
tribune242
tribune242
ALTHOUGH winning his seat by the largest margin out of any candidate in the 2007 general election, Picewell Forbes, the PLP's Member of Parliament for South Andros, is reportedly beginning to lose considerable ground in his constituency.
As a first time MP for the area, Mr Forbes's financial woes have been known for some time - and with a general election less than two years away it appears as if this factor is not being overlooked by his competitors.
Reports suggest that the former MP for the area, Whitney Bastian, still wants to represent the constituency, and with his financial prowess, he could prove to be a considerable obstacle for Mr Forbes.
Political sources claim that Andros - more so than any other seat in the Bahamas - is one area where a candidate without substantial amounts of money cannot be expected to win.
The Tribune source said: "Let me tell you, in Andros you have to dig in your pocket from the time you land until you fly out of there.
"It's like that mindset was established years ago when Sir Lynden (Pindling) was representing them, so it's hard to break that - no matter who you are.
"And it doesn't matter if your MP is doing a good job or not.
"He or she could be in there every other week, walking up and down, shaking hands, kissing babies, attending every funeral, wedding, and pastoral anointing, and yet be voted out because they are unable to provide a contract for their generals."
Attempts to reach Mr Forbes for comment were unsuccessful.
October 27, 2010
tribune242
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about gangs and gangsters in The Bahamas
“...scary stuff...”
By Felix F. Bethel
Rough Cut
jonesbahamas
"Most of the youth gangs will mess with you just because they see you walking by yourself and you might have something on you that they want: watch, chain, shoes…" Pastor Carlos Reid.
Next year this time, I might be dead; long gone – and thereafter on sweet way to oblivion; and so today I must now pray: Lord God Almighty – maker of heaven and earth - deliver me now from the snares of the Evil One; and in Your mercy show me the way to paradise.
As I pray for you, - my brothers and sisters – so I implore that, you also pray for me; and since I have within me an ever rising fountain of tears for my beloved Bahamas, my prayers today are also for Pastor Carlos Reid, a beautiful brother who brings us so much scary news from the bleeding heart of the whirlwind.
I am told that, “Pastor Reid is certified in gang prevention and intervention skills by the National Gang and Crime Research Centre of the United States of America.”
While I am told this stuff about Reid, I know it for a fact that, Halloween is on its scary way to the Bahamas.
I am really scared.
Pastor Reid tells us all that, “Bahamian gangs are not constituted in the same way as American gangs, or Jamaican gangs. Pastor Reid said American gangs are "more organized crime gangs", and Jamaican gangs are "political gangs".
“Organized crime gangs are often underground organizations that run the entire community, including housing projects, businesses and politicians.
"It doesn't mean we don't have gangs. We basically have youth gangs. The problem is, America started off just as we did and we don't want to get where America is," said Pastor Reid.
"We are seeing the formation of these groups really to protect themselves. To be honest, in the Bahamas, just being by yourself is a risk.
This is a scary thought.
But seriously now, to hear this brother speak about peace in the streets, the curative power of basketball and about the gang phenomenon, you know that you are in the presence of a certified and surely expert, Gangologist.
The man tells me that, “The Blue Hills’ playing fields is known as the "killing fields", according to Pastor Reid, who said, "every day there is a fight going on out there".
"Let us look at Government High School. When you have to walk through Yellow Elder, where the Hornets are, if you are a Rebellion they know and you are getting it," said Pastor Reid.
“Once a student lives in a certain area, they are automatically assumed to be in a "particular clique". A GHS student said there was a fight in school yesterday because of gangs. The fight was sparked because a student from the Grove "trespassed" in Rebellion territory.
As Reid notes, "Now think about this. If you know someone wants to chap you up and kill you, do you really think you can focus on your school work? The only thing you are thinking about is: how am I going to get out of here after school?"
{Well, gadjammit! If I had such certified intelligence driven information, I would demand that my idiot parents go to school in my stead.
{But yet, that is how a fool like me would react to the specter of gun and gang-violence at school. What a calamity for us all when information like the scary stuff being peddled by this pastor and others becomes the commonsense of people who should know better.}
But not to worry, Reid is all over this story concerning gangs; since he is –after all- an expert. As the newspaper reports, “Having had intimate knowledge of the how the groups operate, Reid said the war is far from over.”Soon we're going to see violence all over the place, because no one wants to take 'the last'. If you attack someone belonging to my gang, then I'm going to take my vengeance out on someone in your gang. That's just the way it is," Reid said.
“Asked why there were so many school boys joining gangs, Reid explained that the students crave to feel like they are a part of something. He added that it is hard not to get involved in a gang because one of the alternatives is to become a target of the gangs.
"They have to protect themselves," he said.
According to him, there are about 50 youth gangs in the Bahamas with the "Rebellions" who have about 14 different sections representing the largest group...”
Mommy, Mommy, I am now scared, scared-scared; this stuff is really scary. Indeed, some of this stuff is so scary that, I now feel obliged – in a very public kind of way – to send out kudos to Pastor Carlos Reid for the yeoman’s work he has been doing in this beloved land of conch slop, pomp, pageantry and on occasion, some of the purest bull the law would allow.
My congratulations go out to this brother for the fine work he has been doing in “alerting” the nation to the rot that is within; with particular reference to what he cites as revealed fact; this being the extent to which Bahamian society is riddled with gangs and gangsters.
My thanks come in floods and torrents to the good pastor for his wisdom and insight when he tells me, the Commissioner of Police, Ellison Greenslade, Marvin Dames, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Missouri Sherman-Peter, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, her minister, the Hon. Orville Alton “Tommy” Turnquest, the Rt. Hon. Hubert Alexander Ingraham, the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie – their party members, the Bahamian people and billions of other people around the world, what gang violence is all about in the Bahamas.
As the good pastor learnedly affirms, “…"A lot of the killings we have seen this year are retaliation killings. When someone gets killed, you are not just getting rid of that person, because that person is attached to an immediate family and an extended family, the gang. The mentality is, when you kill one of us, in most cases we have to take one of your own," said Pastor Reid.
Pastor Reid also said that, "Almost every community has a feud going on with a different community. We have not properly addressed the issue of gangs. We have allowed situations to breed, and a lot of the people in the position to make a difference don't have a clue about what is going on," he said.
Pastor Reid also said that, Poinciana Drive is still known as "the Gaza Strip", according to Pastor Reid. It is the meeting ground of four different gang territories (Gun Dogs, Pond Boys, Rebellions and Nike Boys), and four different schools (CC Sweeting, HO Nash, TA Thompson and CR Walker).
Now hear this, “Pastor Carlos Reid is set to release an updated gang list this week, a document produced by the community-based non-profit Youth against Violence, which he leads. The list details the schools and communities that are "contaminated" with gangs.
Evidently, Cynthia “Mother” Pratt agrees with Pastor Carlos Reid. Mother reports that, “Ridgeland Park and the Grove are two communities featured on the list. They are said to have gangs that are involved in "wars" and "cross rivalry."
Allegedly and therefore allegedly - according to the word printed in the newspaper, Mother claims that, both communities are engaged in an endless spree of retaliations that are affecting the community.
And so, pretty please, are you not scared now that you KNOW the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth; the gangsters are here.
But clearly, while you might be scared stiff; I am pretty certain that Pastor Reid is today smiling his very scary-way straight to the bank.
jonesbahamas
By Felix F. Bethel
Rough Cut
jonesbahamas
"Most of the youth gangs will mess with you just because they see you walking by yourself and you might have something on you that they want: watch, chain, shoes…" Pastor Carlos Reid.
Next year this time, I might be dead; long gone – and thereafter on sweet way to oblivion; and so today I must now pray: Lord God Almighty – maker of heaven and earth - deliver me now from the snares of the Evil One; and in Your mercy show me the way to paradise.
As I pray for you, - my brothers and sisters – so I implore that, you also pray for me; and since I have within me an ever rising fountain of tears for my beloved Bahamas, my prayers today are also for Pastor Carlos Reid, a beautiful brother who brings us so much scary news from the bleeding heart of the whirlwind.
I am told that, “Pastor Reid is certified in gang prevention and intervention skills by the National Gang and Crime Research Centre of the United States of America.”
While I am told this stuff about Reid, I know it for a fact that, Halloween is on its scary way to the Bahamas.
I am really scared.
Pastor Reid tells us all that, “Bahamian gangs are not constituted in the same way as American gangs, or Jamaican gangs. Pastor Reid said American gangs are "more organized crime gangs", and Jamaican gangs are "political gangs".
“Organized crime gangs are often underground organizations that run the entire community, including housing projects, businesses and politicians.
"It doesn't mean we don't have gangs. We basically have youth gangs. The problem is, America started off just as we did and we don't want to get where America is," said Pastor Reid.
"We are seeing the formation of these groups really to protect themselves. To be honest, in the Bahamas, just being by yourself is a risk.
This is a scary thought.
But seriously now, to hear this brother speak about peace in the streets, the curative power of basketball and about the gang phenomenon, you know that you are in the presence of a certified and surely expert, Gangologist.
The man tells me that, “The Blue Hills’ playing fields is known as the "killing fields", according to Pastor Reid, who said, "every day there is a fight going on out there".
"Let us look at Government High School. When you have to walk through Yellow Elder, where the Hornets are, if you are a Rebellion they know and you are getting it," said Pastor Reid.
“Once a student lives in a certain area, they are automatically assumed to be in a "particular clique". A GHS student said there was a fight in school yesterday because of gangs. The fight was sparked because a student from the Grove "trespassed" in Rebellion territory.
As Reid notes, "Now think about this. If you know someone wants to chap you up and kill you, do you really think you can focus on your school work? The only thing you are thinking about is: how am I going to get out of here after school?"
{Well, gadjammit! If I had such certified intelligence driven information, I would demand that my idiot parents go to school in my stead.
{But yet, that is how a fool like me would react to the specter of gun and gang-violence at school. What a calamity for us all when information like the scary stuff being peddled by this pastor and others becomes the commonsense of people who should know better.}
But not to worry, Reid is all over this story concerning gangs; since he is –after all- an expert. As the newspaper reports, “Having had intimate knowledge of the how the groups operate, Reid said the war is far from over.”Soon we're going to see violence all over the place, because no one wants to take 'the last'. If you attack someone belonging to my gang, then I'm going to take my vengeance out on someone in your gang. That's just the way it is," Reid said.
“Asked why there were so many school boys joining gangs, Reid explained that the students crave to feel like they are a part of something. He added that it is hard not to get involved in a gang because one of the alternatives is to become a target of the gangs.
"They have to protect themselves," he said.
According to him, there are about 50 youth gangs in the Bahamas with the "Rebellions" who have about 14 different sections representing the largest group...”
Mommy, Mommy, I am now scared, scared-scared; this stuff is really scary. Indeed, some of this stuff is so scary that, I now feel obliged – in a very public kind of way – to send out kudos to Pastor Carlos Reid for the yeoman’s work he has been doing in this beloved land of conch slop, pomp, pageantry and on occasion, some of the purest bull the law would allow.
My congratulations go out to this brother for the fine work he has been doing in “alerting” the nation to the rot that is within; with particular reference to what he cites as revealed fact; this being the extent to which Bahamian society is riddled with gangs and gangsters.
My thanks come in floods and torrents to the good pastor for his wisdom and insight when he tells me, the Commissioner of Police, Ellison Greenslade, Marvin Dames, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Missouri Sherman-Peter, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, her minister, the Hon. Orville Alton “Tommy” Turnquest, the Rt. Hon. Hubert Alexander Ingraham, the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie – their party members, the Bahamian people and billions of other people around the world, what gang violence is all about in the Bahamas.
As the good pastor learnedly affirms, “…"A lot of the killings we have seen this year are retaliation killings. When someone gets killed, you are not just getting rid of that person, because that person is attached to an immediate family and an extended family, the gang. The mentality is, when you kill one of us, in most cases we have to take one of your own," said Pastor Reid.
Pastor Reid also said that, "Almost every community has a feud going on with a different community. We have not properly addressed the issue of gangs. We have allowed situations to breed, and a lot of the people in the position to make a difference don't have a clue about what is going on," he said.
Pastor Reid also said that, Poinciana Drive is still known as "the Gaza Strip", according to Pastor Reid. It is the meeting ground of four different gang territories (Gun Dogs, Pond Boys, Rebellions and Nike Boys), and four different schools (CC Sweeting, HO Nash, TA Thompson and CR Walker).
Now hear this, “Pastor Carlos Reid is set to release an updated gang list this week, a document produced by the community-based non-profit Youth against Violence, which he leads. The list details the schools and communities that are "contaminated" with gangs.
Evidently, Cynthia “Mother” Pratt agrees with Pastor Carlos Reid. Mother reports that, “Ridgeland Park and the Grove are two communities featured on the list. They are said to have gangs that are involved in "wars" and "cross rivalry."
Allegedly and therefore allegedly - according to the word printed in the newspaper, Mother claims that, both communities are engaged in an endless spree of retaliations that are affecting the community.
And so, pretty please, are you not scared now that you KNOW the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth; the gangsters are here.
But clearly, while you might be scared stiff; I am pretty certain that Pastor Reid is today smiling his very scary-way straight to the bank.
jonesbahamas
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