Sustainable Development and Prosperity for All Bahamians and The Posterity in The Bahamas

The Bahamas - A Nation in Crisis: A Roadmap for Economic Recovery, Debt Reduction, and National Development in The Bahamas

By Dr Kevin Turnquest-Alcena
Nassau, The Bahamas

The Bahamas, once a leading economic force in the Caribbean, is now at a critical juncture.  The national debt has ballooned, competitiveness has waned, and global competitors, like Bermuda, have overtaken The Bahamas in key sectors such as captive insurance and financial services.  This situation poses serious risks for the nation's future stability, especially considering the lack of financial buffers to withstand natural or economic disasters.

The time for comprehensive reform is now.  The Bahamas must act decisively to address issues in immigration, inland revenue, financial regulation, and urban development, while leveraging examples from countries like Singapore, India, and Jamaica that have successfully implemented similar reforms.  Through bold and innovative measures, The Bahamas can reduce its debt, foster economic growth, and build a resilient future for all Bahamians.

1. Commendation for Inland Revenue and Insurance Sectors

The Inland Revenue Department and insurance sectors are integral to the financial stability of The Bahamas.  Their recent progress in collecting taxes and generating revenue has been commendable, but more must be done to ensure efficiency and sustainability.  The reliance on contract workers, many of whom lack adequate training, has been a challenge.  By transitioning these workers to permanent roles and providing formal training that includes a minimum C grade in Math and English, the government can create a stable and efficient workforce capable of driving tax collection efforts (Bahamas Ministry of Education, 2021).

This initiative must be paired with an increase in the minimum wage to ensure that workers are fairly compensated, thereby boosting morale and increasing consumer spending.  Such measures will help alleviate economic challenges while promoting greater stability in the workforce.

2. Addressing National Debt and Economic Competitiveness

The Bahamas faces a crippling national debt, which as of 2020, had exceeded 103% of GDP (Central Bank of The Bahamas, 2021).  If not addressed, this debt will hinder the country’s ability to invest in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.  Countries like Norway and the UAE have successfully mitigated such risks by creating sovereign wealth funds, which serve as financial buffers during times of crisis.  Establishing a similar fund in The Bahamas could provide a safety net in the event of natural disasters or economic downturns.

Additionally, The Bahamas must reform its financial services regulations to remain competitive on the global stage.  Bermuda’s rise as a global leader in captive insurance is a direct result of its business-friendly regulatory environment.  The Bermuda Monetary Authority has created a balanced regulatory framework that encourages innovation while maintaining compliance, thus attracting international businesses (Bermuda Monetary Authority, 2020).  The Bahamas must take similar steps to regain its competitive edge.

3. Leveraging Customs Instruments and Targeted Taxation for Revenue

To boost national revenue, The Bahamas can implement a sugar tax or similar levies on unhealthy products such as sugary drinks and fast food.  This model has been successful in New York City, where taxing sugary beverages and junk food has raised revenue and improved public health outcomes (New York City Department of Health, 2019).  Such taxes in The Bahamas would target large multinational companies, such as McDonald’s, and provide funds that can be reinvested into critical areas like healthcare, education, and sports development.

Revenue from these taxes should also be allocated toward developing youth programs, supporting social services, and funding national initiatives that promote health and well-being across the country.

4. Reforming Immigration Policies for Nation Building and Economic Development

The Bahamas’ current immigration policies are too restrictive and limit the country’s ability to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads.  Countries like Canada and Singapore have implemented practical immigration policies that bring in skilled workers who contribute to their economies (Canadian Immigration and Citizenship, 2020).  The Bahamas should follow this model, easing immigration restrictions to attract multinational companies (MNCs) and skilled workers who can drive economic growth.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants who are currently part of a parallel economy should be brought into the formal system.  Legalizing their status would allow them to contribute to tax revenues and reduce the strain on public services, while also enhancing national security.  Immigrants are a crucial part of nation-building, and The Bahamas must capitalize on their potential to stimulate economic growth.

5. Implementing a Regulated National Lottery for Systematic Revenue Generation

A regulated national lottery could provide a valuable source of revenue for The Bahamas, funding essential sectors like sports, education, and social services.  Countries such as Barbados and the United Kingdom have used national lotteries to generate significant revenue for national development initiatives (Barbados National Lottery Report, 2020).  Implementing a similar system in The Bahamas would reduce the national debt and provide consistent funding for key public services.

By regulating the lottery, The Bahamas can ensure that funds are allocated systematically, with a focus on youth development, national sports programs, and education.  This will not only alleviate debt but also foster national pride and engagement.

6. Revamping Banking Regulations for Entrepreneurs and Business Development

The Bahamas' banking regulations are currently too restrictive, making it difficult for entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital.  To support entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth, the government must implement banking legislation that simplifies access to loans and financing for startups and small businesses.

Countries like India have successfully implemented banking reforms that support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to their economy.  By adopting similar reforms, The Bahamas can foster a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and investment (Government of India, 2020).  Additionally, exchange control policies should be modernized to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), as investors are more likely to bring capital into a country where financial regulations are transparent and flexible (IMF, 2021).

7. Revitalizing Downtown Nassau and Developing Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

Downtown Nassau is in dire need of revitalization.  The area’s colonial architecture is deteriorating, and the lack of modern infrastructure has made it difficult to attract multinational corporations (MNCs) and tourists.  By redeveloping Bay Street into a modern economic hub, The Bahamas can attract global businesses and create jobs for local residents.  This redevelopment should focus on creating a dynamic space for local businesses and international companies, driving economic activity and tourism.

Additionally, The Bahamas should establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs), similar to those in Dubai and Singapore, offering tax incentives and regulatory relief to attract foreign companies and investors.  SEZs can serve as innovation hubs for technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, positioning The Bahamas as a competitive player in the global economy (Government of Singapore, 2020).

8. Strengthening the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB)

The National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB) is responsible for ensuring that the country's educational institutions meet international standards.  However, NACoB requires reform to ensure that it is staffed by individuals with the necessary academic and professional qualifications to maintain ISO quality standards.

Countries like Jamaica have successfully implemented educational reforms by appointing qualified professionals to lead their accreditation bodies, ensuring that institutions are held to high standards (Government of Jamaica, 2019).  The Bahamas should adopt a similar approach to strengthen NACoB and ensure that the country's educational institutions are globally competitive.

9. Establishing Planning Commissions for Sustainable Development

The Bahamas must establish Planning Commissions modeled after those in India and Singapore to ensure long-term sustainability and development.  India’s NITI Aayog, for example, serves as a central policy think tank that drives economic growth and development (Government of India, 2020).  Similarly, Singapore’s Economic Development Board plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic policies, ensuring that Singapore remains competitive globally (Government of Singapore, 2020).

The Bahamas should establish independent planning commissions tasked with setting national growth targets, managing resource allocation, and evaluating the performance of government departments.  These commissions must be free from political interference and staffed by professionals who understand global best practices in policy development.

10. Conclusion: A Call for Introspection, Reform, and Nation Building

The Bahamas stands at a pivotal moment in its history.  Faced with mounting national debt, declining competitiveness, and an outdated regulatory framework, the country must undertake comprehensive reforms to secure its future.  The examples set by Singapore, India, Bermuda, and Jamaica show that transformation is possible with visionary leadership, practical policies, and a commitment to nation-building.

By reforming immigration policies, modernizing banking regulations, strengthening inland revenue, and implementing a regulated national lottery, The Bahamas can create a more competitive business environment, reduce national debt, and foster long-term economic growth.  Moreover, the revitalization of downtown Nassau and the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will attract international businesses and generate jobs, while reforms to NACoB will ensure that the country’s educational institutions meet global standards.

This is not just about economic reform; it is about building a better future for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come.  We must look inward, evaluate our strengths and weaknesses, and implement policies that ensure sustainable development and prosperity for all Bahamians.  Through visionary leadership, investment in human capital, and a commitment to global best practices, The Bahamas can emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to take on the challenges of the 21st century.

The journey will not be easy, but it is necessary if we are to leave behind a Bahamas that is prosperous, peaceful, and prepared for the future.  We owe it to future generations to act now—together, we can build a nation that not only thrives economically but also serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the world.

Source

References

Barbados National Lottery. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.barbadoslottery.com/

Bermuda Monetary Authority. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.bma.bm/

Canadian Immigration and Citizenship. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/annual-report.html

Central Bank of The Bahamas. (2021). Annual Economic Review 2020. Retrieved from https://www.centralbankbahamas.com/research-publications

Government of India. (2020). About NITI Aayog. Retrieved from https://niti.gov.in/

Government of Jamaica. (2019). Education System Transformation Programme. Retrieved from https://www.moey.gov.jm/

Government of Singapore. (2020). Singapore Economic Development Board. Retrieved from https://www.edb.gov.sg/

IMF. (2021). Bahamas Staff Report. Retrieved from https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2021/cr21248.pdf

New York City Department of Health. (2019). Sugary Drinks Taxation and Health. Retrieved from https://www1.nyc.gov/

The Bahamas Prime Minister on a New Energy Era for The Bahamas

Transforming our country’s energy sector has been a priority for us from the start, says Bahamian Prime Minister, The Hon. Philip Brave Davis, KC., MP.,

...

...

On the one hand, we have been compelled by the urgency of change – the need to relieve Bahamian families and businesses from the burden of high prices and unreliable electricity supply.

Relief is an important-enough goal – especially during a global inflation crisis.

But we are also motivated by our profound conviction that our economy can be more competitive, more prosperous, more dynamic, and more inclusive — with more paths to security and success for more Bahamians.

We have very big ambitions for our country and for the Bahamian people.

However – you can’t build a 21st century economy with 20thcentury infrastructure.

In every conversation I have with entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors – from the very smallest to the very largest – the high cost of electricity, and the costs and uncertainties associated with unreliable supply, inevitably come up.

For most Bahamians, the only bill bigger is their rent or mortgage payment.  Major bills are a major burden – which means less disposable income, which means less spending and investment in our local economy.

And, of course, high bills for businesses means high operating costs, affecting our competitiveness and our ability to diversify, and creating obstacles to growth and development – impacting investments, business expansions, and job creation.

Now – even with all of those problems, we’re a special-enough country that we’ve come roaring back after the dark days of, Hurricane Dorian, pandemic curfews and lockdowns, breaking big records, with substantial new investments and job growth.

Just imagine what we could accomplish if we had affordable, reliable, clean energy!

That’s where we’re finally headed.

But right before we get to the hopeful part of today’s launch – the solutions! – I want to make sure you all have an understanding of the scale of the challenge.

Important parts of our electricity infrastructure, including some transformers and substations, are more than 50 years old – they date back to before independence!

It’s hard to describe the experience of listening to engineers emphasize that critical parts of our grid are on the verge of collapse – with no chance of revival, once they go down.

And then there are the generation engines – 60% of BPL’s plant in New Providence, and 80% in the Family Islands, need replacement within the next five years.

So we have an aging, vulnerable, deteriorating, expensive system, dependent on heavy and diesel fuels, that cannot meet current needs – let alone the growing energy needs of a digital economy, or the increased demand we have to anticipate as temperatures rise in this new climate era.

If you’re wondering how much it costs to rescue and modernize our grid – I have an answer for you: about half a billion dollars.

Of course, BPL is carrying a legacy debt of the same amount —  more than $500 million, not to mention an unfunded pension liability of $100 million.

I could go on – about the grid’s vulnerability to storm damage, the inability of our current system to integrate renewable energy, the tens of millions in rental costs annually which contribute to high prices – but I can see you’re ready to move from problems to solutions.

As were we.  We understood that as urgent as change was, the quick short-term fixes that have been the historical pattern have not served our country well.

We knew we needed comprehensive, innovative reform.

Today, we’re excited to share these policies with you, which include:

- A foundational update to transmission and distribution in New Providence, so we can have a more stronger, more resilient, more modern, more efficient power grid – critical to gaining both lower prices and increased reliability;

- For the first time, utility-scale solar power in New Providence – 70 MW of solar power, and 35 MW of Battery Energy Storage Systems will be integrated into the grid;

- Solar power throughout our Family Islands – where new hybrid microgrids will incorporate solar power and natural gas, allowing us to eliminate expensive BPL rentals, replace aging generation units, and establish battery storage systems;

- Natural gas as a partner fuel to solar, to create important savings that can be passed on to the consumer;

- Energy Efficiency Upgrades, including energy audits and efficiency upgrades for government buildings, educational outreach to consumers, LED street lighting, and rooftop solar at schools; and:

- New electricity legislation (Electricity Act 2024), which allows for stronger consumer protections, and – very importantly, as you’ll hear momentarily – allows adjustment to the tariff rates to support consumers who most urgently need relief from high prices.

I’d like to pause here to say that when I asked Minister Coleby-Davis last September to become the country’s Minister of Energy, we discussed our shared priorities for energy reform, which included:

- Immediate relief for Bahamian families

- Reforms that lead to lower prices, and fair prices, over the medium and long term

- Increased reliability

- Increased grid resilience during storms

- Cleaner energy, with a lower carbon footprint…

- An ironclad commitment to union workers, including job and pension security

- New entrepreneurial, employment, and investment opportunities for Bahamians…and:

- Strengthening the financial position of BPL, to ensure legacy debts are addressed.

To the Minister’s credit, she jumped right in and never looked back.

Which is why this morning, she has the honour of sharing more of the details of these big new policies.

And as I turn things over to her, I will close by reminding everyone – we didn’t come here to defend the status quo, we came here to change it.

We are determined to close the gap between our national potential and our national reality – and with this very big and ambitious agenda of reform and investment, we believe we are well on the way to ensuring that a new energy era will lead also to a new economic era – a new era of opportunity for all.

Source

Energy Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis on a new energy era in The Bahamas>>>

Latrae Rahming on Safety For American Tourists in The Bahamas

What About The Safety of Bahamians in The Bahamas, Mr. Latrae Rahming?

OPM DID NOT SEND CBS NEWS TEAM TO COVER MURDER SCENE

STATEMENT FROM COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR:

“The Office of the Prime Minister did not direct any news crew to cover a crime scene in The Bahamas. We have since contacted the team, who indicated they will not use that as part of their story.

The purpose of their (CBS News crew) trip is to show that The Bahamas is safe for Americans to visit and that incidents occurring in The Bahamas are outside of the tourist areas,” Communication’s Director, Latrae Rahming.

Source

Coalition of Independents (COI) Respond to The Communications Director at The Office of the Prime Minister, Latrae Rahming On Safe Areas for Tourists in The Bahamas

"Director Latrae Rahming, your statement is not only a slap in the face to every Bahamian but also a clear indication of where the government's priorities lie. The audacity to publicize areas safe for tourists while leaving your own citizens to navigate through violence and fear is beyond appalling.

It's a blatant display of negligence towards the very people you've sworn to protect and serve. Our nation should not resemble a resort, where safety is a luxury afforded only to those holding foreign passports.

The reality that our own streets have become battlegrounds for our sons and daughters, while the government seems more preoccupied with the nation's image abroad, is shameful. It's a gross failure to fulfill the most basic duties of governance and law enforcement.

Furthermore, let this serve as a stern reminder that the Bahamian people are exhausted by this blatant disregard for their safety and well-being.

Our children, the future of this nation, are growing up in an environment where their lives are undervalued. The government's apparent indifference to the escalating violence within our own borders, while ensuring tourists can sunbathe in peace, is unacceptable.

We demand more than just words and reassurances; we demand tangible actions and policies that prioritize the safety of every Bahamian. The time has come for the government to stop treating its citizens as second-class and start addressing the root causes of this violence.

The people of The Bahamas deserve to feel safe in their own country, not just survive. Our patience has worn thin, and our tolerance for excuses has reached its end. It's high time our leaders took their responsibilities seriously and made the safety and security of their own people their top priority.

I fully understand that tourism is our number one industry, and we've seen how fragile that is, especially when we were struck by COVID-19, and now it is being further threatened by crime. While the need to protect this industry is clear, it's crucial that we move past this outdated model.

The safety and needs of our people must not be overlooked in the process. The continuous focus on the welfare of tourists at the expense of our own citizens' safety is a dangerous imbalance that cannot be sustained.

It's time to explore and invest in sustainable development models that do not sacrifice the well-being of Bahamians. Our people's lives and safety should always be the priority, and any model that fails to recognize this is fundamentally flawed and unacceptable."

Charlotte Green

National Chairman

Coalition of Independents

Source 

Does The Bahamas Government understands the prudence of a national sovereign wealth fund?

It would be wise of The Bahamas govenment to implement a sovereign wealth fund

“One People United In Sovereign Wealth!"

By Dr. Kevin Turnquest-Alcena

As the nation continues preparation to trod toward the road of celebrating 50 years of Independence, the need for the preservation of our country is now!

Prime Minister Brave Davis must be cognizant of the fact that the country's debt is out of control, crime is high, the cost of living has increased and as such a solution to these impending issues need to be found.

Hence, while attempting to pass the mining legislation, it would be a very prudent and wise of our govenment to implement a sovereign wealth fund component for several reasons.

A sovereign wealth fund is - a state owned investment that invests globally in a variety of financial assets. Several countries utilize this strategy, including: Singapore, China, France and Norway.

Benefits of SWF include, but not limited to:

1. Protecting and stabalizing budgets and economies from excess volatility in revenues and exports.

2. Diversify from non-renewable commodity exports.

3. Diversify revenue streams.

4. Better earning potential on foreign exchange.

5. Long-term capital growth.

So, why should The Bahamas consider implementing such a strategy?

Firstly, due to the issue of global warming, entire countries are being harmed environmentally. This will surely affect the areas of South Beach and even islands like Andros to be under water. As a country, we need to be very proactive and strategic in our resolve to secure the problem.

The question to ask is, "Does the Brave Administration understand the importance of a national sovereign wealth fund?" Planning true nation building and not the subpar colonial system we continue to adhere too takes hard work, along with persistence. This is necessary as we have seen an increase in debt, crime, the educational system, over staffed public services, low performance in terms of productivity, even the idea of feeding ourselves have become obsolete.

Secondly, the SWF will be beneficial in that it is open to all Bahamians regardless of color, class or creed, no one would be exempt. It can be set up in such a way that rather than issue money, it could be invested towards nation building. This investment fund will subsidize the issues we are now facing with National Insurance and our pensions. The SWF gives you the opportunity to do this.

The Question one must ask is, "Does the "Brave" Administration have the will and the ability to implement a Sovereign Fund that will be for the greater good?"

As Proverbs 16:9 say, "A man's mind plans his way: but the Lord directs His steps and make sure.

Prime Minister Davis you are indéed a man that understands empathy and the importance of doing the greatest good for the greatest amount of people.

Source 

The failings of the National Insurance Board (NIB) are based primarily on political interference

We need a radical change to the way the National Insurance Board (NIB) is run

A Response to Lindon Nairn's NIB proposal

By Norman Trabulsy Jr

While I am in wholehearted agreement with Lindon Nairn regarding the need for immediate and drastic action to fix NIB, I am not convinced by his proposed solutions.

Firstly, yes, the failings of NIB are based primarily on “political interference”, as he states.  Now, I would ask what is included in Mr. Nairn's idea of political interference?  Is it outright misappropriation of funds?  Is it by using NIB as a slush fund?  Is it by failing to look at the actuarial trends and responding accordingly?  Is it by political appointments of upper management who are wholly unqualified for these positions?  Is it by political interference in the collection and distribution of benefits?  Is it by political interference of the laws governing NIB, and the oversight required?  Is it by deliberate lack of accountability, and the pace of technological innovation?

I am not convinced that every public service should be outsourced to the private sector.  Private profits, as well documented in health care for instance, is what is driving the rapidly rising cost of health care.

The U.S. is a perfect example of this.  U.S. government Medicare administrative costs are 1% - 2% of revenues.  Private health insurance companies, such as our Colina, have 15%-20% administrative costs. 

It is a fact that most bankruptcies in the U.S. are because of health care costs.  Would God approve?

What some people call reckless inefficiency in government is simply called reasonable corporate profiteering by others.  Seems most of us have drank the private sector Kool Aid.

Mr. Nairn says, “ Until recently, any private citizen could simply put money into fixed deposit accounts at any financial institution and generate multiple times NIB's net earnings.”

Judging by the statistics available to all of us, what percentage of our private, average Bahamian citizens can put any money into a bank at all?  As to my knowledge, the majority of Bahamians are living pay check to pay check - unable to cover a $400.00 emergency.

Some things in this world, especially health care, should not be left to the “free market”.  Granted, here in The Bahamas we have little visionary and educational exposure to models different from our guiding light rent seekers to the north.

Not exactly a good example of Christianity in action, is it?

In my lifetime, I would be hard pressed to give examples where the private sector really did out perform previously government run services, in an educated and free society.

Instead of our government hiring the same professionals who have successfully run other similar institutions, we chose to place political hacks who have neither the intelligence, education or integrity required to lead, and then we wonder why that institution has failed.

Is this not our history in a nutshell?

You want a well functioning enterprise?  Then hire a qualified person to lead it.  Just like the private sector does.  Pay them well.  Let them hire and fire as they see fit, and leave them alone.  We will then get acceptable results.  Just like the private sector does.  Is this such a hard concept to understand?

The “heavy lifting” Mr. Nairn speaks of is not in privatizing NIB, rather it is in recognizing our own shortcomings and failings, and fixing them.  Isn't this always the heavy lifting we require?

In my estimation, not every human good or government service requires private profit to succeed.

Batelco was sold so that we would ostensibly get more efficiency and better service.  Can anyone tell me that selling BTC was not a deal made behind closed doors that enriched a handful of greedy politicians and their private sector friends?

Has service improved?  Does The Bahamas benefit from the sale of BTC in any way?

In fact, I would argue that a truly Christian perspective would see NIB, health care, life saving drugs, minimum food allowances, as God given rights that should not be touched by the money changers.

The very idea that a “company” should profit from health care should be offensive to a true, right thinking Christian.

Let the private sector gamble to their hearts delight.  But, when they cross over into essential human services, we need to let them sit small.

I agree with Mr. Nairn that we need a radical change to the way NIB is run.  That much is clear.  However, I fear that NIB, like BTC, will simply become a revenue stream for a handful of millionaire and billionaire corporate executives who have little concern for our people, and every concern for their private profits.

Norman Trabulsy Jr.
Mangrove Cay, Andros

Haitians Need to Stop Sewing Seeds of Discord in The Bahamas and Focus on Assimilaton Into The Bahamian Society

STOP XENOPHOBIA IN BAHAMA LAND!

By Dedrie Woods

Last month, Louby Georges posted on his page a Post of a Bahamian Soccer Team which won the overall prize after defeating three other Caribbean Teams.

Rather than CONGRATULATE The Bahamas Team, some in the Haitian Community went out of their way to diminish the Bahamian Team's success by telling the public that the success was due to the Haitian and Jamaican Descents on the team.

I found that repulsive and expressed my views on the Post.

Now, today, Monday, Nov.7, THE PENDULUM has swung the other way and non other than Louby Georges is now calling Bahamians "XENOPHOBIC", because they are now expressing their views on the "Bahamians of Haitian Descent" passing out, as full fledge Immigration Officers.

The Bahamas Constitution gives Citizenship access to every child born in the Bahamas after 1973 to FOREIGN PARENTS. Once that child reaches the age of 18 yrs old, they can apply for Bahamian Citizenship. Once that child has pledged allegiance to this nation, they become a full fledge Bahamian Citizen with all the rights and privileges afforded to ALL BONIFIED CITIZENS.

When a Bahamian Citizen of Haitian Descent achieves an award or honour, WE NEED TO STOP THIS NONSENSE OF DIGGING UP their parents nationality to give credence of their success to Haiti. Only the Haitian Community does this. We do not hear this from nationals of other nations.

The Haitian folks "cook their own Goose" now, and cry fowl when they have to eat their own meal.

I want ALL HAITIANS living in the Bahamas to know that you cannot "Eat your cake and have it to", because THE PENDULUM DOES SWING BOTH WAYS, as it has done with the Soccer Team vs The Immigration Passing Out. Both Haitians and BAHAMIANS are XENOPHOBIC, if you want to use that word. Do not throw up your Haitian Nationality in the faces of BAHAMIANS and expect them to accept it lying down. It won't happen. When you kick up dust, it will fly in your face.

When Miss Bahamas Universe, Miss Shantell O'Brien won her title at the Miss Universe Pageant, the Haitian Community jumped on Social Media and told the World that Shantell was a Haitian. They basically killed that young Lady's accomplishment, because most BAHAMIANS no longer saw her as one of us.

You Haitians need to stop sewing seeds of discord for yourself. You need to focus on ASSIMILATION into Bahamian culture, or just leave The Bahamas and go to Haiti and be happy.

Source/Comment 

The Bahamas is one of the most difficult places for its own citizens to do business or become entrepreneurs!

An Open Note To The Bahamas Prime Minister, The Hon. Philip Davis

As The Bahamas prepares to celebrate fifty (50) years as an “independent” country, one is left to ponder if we have truly made any real strides towards economic prosperity

As this is our country Mr. Prime Minister, then we the people should have more of a stake in it. As Voltaire said, “A multitude of laws in a country is like is a great number of physicians, a sign of weakness and malady.”

"The Way Forward"

By: Dr Kevin Turnquest Alcena

LLB (Hon-1st Cl.), LLM (Hon-1st Cl.)

PhD in Economics / Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Ph.D. in Public Health / PhD in Herbal and Holistic Medicine

Titular Professor

Lawyer & Fellow—CILEx; ACIArb; & Snr. Fellow–AMLA

Sept. 21, 2022

Great Economist, Adam Smith said, “A nation is not made wealthy by the childish accumulation of shiny metals, but is enriched by the economic prosperity of its people.” Well if the wealth of a country is incumbent upon the state of its economics, then Mr. Prime Minister - The Bahamas and its leaders have been “…weighed in the balances, and art found wanting” (Daniel 5:27)! As this nation prepares to celebrate fifty (50) years as an “independent” country, one is left to ponder if we have truly made any real strides towards economic prosperity.

The passing of Queen Elizabeth signified the ending of an era of which those left behind have broken through the barriers of hundreds of decades of forced tradition. The tearing down of these invisible walls and unrealistic expectations have now given the future generation’s options and choices their forefathers were forbidden to make.

However, can we as a “sovereign” nation say the same? When one considers the many archaic and draconian measures still in place that hinders progression in The Bahamas, are we really moving forward? Or are we stuck in decades of false traditions and mental slavery that keeps us in cycles of poverty rather than prosperity?

If Smith’s idea of economic prosperity is to be believed, then where is our wealth Mr. Prime Minister?

Do not get me wrong sir - this is not an indictment on you per se, but rather a question for all of those that have made themselves available to represent the public.

Granted Mr. Prime Minister, The Right Honorable Philip “Brave” Davis, you have made excellent headway in trying to transition this country through a pandemic and into recovery, as well as aiming to improve the social and economic status of the less fortunate. There are still some key areas that need immediate attention and with the right team of advisors I do not doubt some of these issues can be resolved.

Firstly, let’s take a look at the issue of Bahamians helping Bahamians. The Bahamas is one of the most difficult places for its own citizens to do business or become entrepreneurs! The process at Inland Revenue itself is nonsensical. It’s almost completely automated, which makes it difficult to speak to someone on the phone or even in person. What’s the point of having a building full of people if you cannot speak to anyone?

Moreover, if the system has been automated, why is the turnaround time so long? Furthermore, you are required to fill out the application for all agencies on one website, yet, we still have to wait for each of these agencies to separately respond, especially Environmental Health and Ministry of Works!

May I suggest that if one agency is used to fill out the application, then the system should be digitized so that all agencies can tap into a central portal that will allow all relevant parties to receive a notification of when requests come in, and they can begin working on them simultaneously so that the response time and confusion are drastically diminished!

Another issue with doing business in this country is the bureaucracy and the ridiculous criterion of having a “letter of good standing” from N.I.B. If this institution is supposed to have an entire unit dedicated to ensuring that employers are paying their contributions, why then is this letter necessary? If the personnel hired for this task are doing their jobs by prosecuting those who are not meeting their obligations - then this procedure can be quelled.

As this is our country Mr. Prime Minister, then we the people should have more of a stake in it. As Voltaire said, “A multitude of laws in a country is like is a great number of physicians, a sign of weakness and malady.”

Secondly, the government needs to devise a national plan to eradicate illiteracy and the decreasing national average. Social promotion has and still does not help in meeting the needs of our children.

There are over 5,000 students leaving school every year in this country with less than 20% attending college. So, what happens to the other 80%? What prospects do they have if they cannot meet the basic needs of reading and writing? Stephen Covey said one of the “Habits of Highly Effective Leaders” is being innovative.

It is imperative that technical schools be erected to help those that cannot comprehend or pass ten (10) academic subjects. Jamaica, for example has fourteen (14) Technical Schools and two (2) Agriculture schools, which means they are even training their students to feed themselves and their families.

If our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean understand the importance of alternative education, why haven’t we? The government should take a note out of Haiti’s book - in that it has asked Cuba to assist them with their illiteracy problem.

The Human Resource of our country is the most critical part of any nation because we are a service based economy. Another alternative to alleviating the educational problem could be the introduction of a National Service. This would assist those males and females between the ages of 17-21 who are delinquent and continue to be a menace to society, but are not old enough to be placed in Fox Hill Prison.

The programs in place are not helping and only making these young people aggressive and unproductive citizens of society. Something must be done, and the usage of the old Victorian system has already set our kids up for failure. “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid” (Albert Einstein).

Thirdly, as I have said many times before, the national debt dilemma truly needs to be addressed. A national plan begins with having the right set of people in place that can not only give advice, but wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors, there is safety.”

Mr. Prime Minster, wise counsel can keep you and this country from destruction. Simply appointing people to this post or this position does not expand knowledge or make for a great plan. There is no economic think tank or advisory board that can steer this country in the way forward.

We need persons with international connections that can help the country with debt management, and transition to a position of prosperity. Stephen Covey said, “Make time for planning; wars are won in the general’s tent.”

We are continuing the same old structure of bringing back and allowing bureaucrats to dictate or give advice on the way forward. We are looking to you for a paradigm shift in how we do business in this country, because at present - we are digressing.

We see a cycle of people repositioning themselves over and over again; the former this one or that one, and all at the expense of the taxpayer’s money.

The Opposition Leader suggested a good recourse for decreasing our debt; that being allowing Bahamians to buy bonds into our debt. This alternative makes good economic sense and is innovative. The old anachronistic structure at Central Bank needs to be change and rid ourselves of some of these committees. The country is too small and too deep in debt to continue down this path.

Recently, there have been some Bahamians who have decided to open a council in Miami and become digital nomads. This is because the taxes here are too high and defeats the purpose of trying to improve one’s social economic status.

How are we going to help the 49,000 people that is out of work with the existing structure in place? We need to deregulate the country, and allow for ease of doing business for both Bahamians and foreigners.

N.I.B. should be privatized before it goes broke from all the borrowing and mismanagement of money that takes place.

Another ingenious idea to assist in ridding us of this national debt is the implementation of a National Lottery. We have the knowledge and people with the ability and connections to direct the leaders on how to go about doing this. A National Lottery can aid in supplementing Social Services, Education and Youth and Sports, because as it stands - we have no monies to overhaul these ministries.

Also, looking at a Public Service Reform and reducing the public service by at least 20,000 as we can no longer maintain it - will be a big step in moving in the right direction.

In concluding, Matthew 20:26 states, “…Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Mr. Prime Minister, as a great leader - you are called to serve the people and to do so, you must meet the people where they are at.

Progression requires change, and it must begin with those who have taken a step forward and chosen to lead those they are in authority over. Many are still struggling to get by and need help in getting to their destination.

It’s time to be more than just innovative, but think outside the box; time for something new. As Barak Obama said, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

Source 

The losers of the next general election in The Bahamas

By Dennis Dames



Who’s going to lose the next general election in our country – The Bahamas? We, the Bahamian people, as usual.

There is no political party out there that’s up to the challenge of moving our nation out of the grips of omnipresent poverty, widespread illiteracy, rampant crime, the pervasive underground economy, and economic stagnation.

The PLP and FNM have demonstrated over and over again in government – that they are simply executive taxers, borrowers and spenders. They only want to get control of the cookie jar once more, so that they can continue their regular lovers, family and friends feast – while many more of us join the unemployed and underemployed band, the hunger line, the default payment society, and the – may God help us prayer.

FNM and PLP leaders have shown us their wicked colours a long time ago, but we still look forward with great enthusiasm – to screwing ourselves all over again at the next polls. It’s like stupidity on steroids. We love punishment and the shit end of the stick; and the politicians are always delighted to swing us again – one more time.

I have noticed the misguided passions of the yobbish PLP and FNM fans – and cheerleaders on social media. We are stupidly blind and politically careless about our future. We don’t know Brave Davis yet, or Fred Mitchell, Glenys Hanna Martin, Obie Wilchcombe, Dr Hubert Minnis, Carl Bethel, Dion Foulkes, et al?

What could those political dead weights do for The Bahamas and Bahamian people at this juncture of our existence as a free nation and people? They grew up in the corrupt PLP and FNM. They have already executively served in the various corrupt PLP and FNM regimes over the past few decades, and all we got from their respective governments are more public debt, more crime, more unemployment, more hunger and suffering, a broken education system, a failing health care infrastructure, and an absolutely corrupt status quo.

So, who will lose the next general election in The Bahamas again? We, the Bahamian people will – if we don’t collectively resolve to hold the next Bahamian government’s feet to the fire – for the benefit of a truly better, prosperous and more competitive Bahamas and Bahamian people in the 21st century.

Bahamians want to know more about the Aragonite resources in The Bahamas

By  Lynden R. Nairn with Romi Ferreira and 2 others

Ministers: A significant number of Bahamians believe the following:


1. A small group of persons have been awarded rights to mine Aragonite in The Bahamas.

2. It is not widely known who those persons are.

3. The Bahamas government receives minimal taxes from their operations.

4. The private company enjoys significant revenues.

5. No other individual or company may enter the business at this time.

6. The government should exploit this resource directly for the benefit of Bahamians.

7. The uses of this resource are well known.

8. The uses of this raw material to make other products could take place in The Bahamas.


Additionally, they believe:

1. As much as 5 billion tons of sand are produced every year in The Bahamas valued at one hundred billion dollars.

2. The said sand is lost to the floor of the ocean due to oceanic waves and current movement.

3. A senior Cabinet Minister is now exploiting or is seeking to exploit this resource.

4. These issues are well known, but have not been addressed because past and present government officials are benefiting from the sale of this resource.

5. Even if the conspiracies are untrue, the government should consider how these resources might be exploited for the benefit of all Bahamians.


Frankly, I don’t know whether much of this is true, but given the loud calls by Bahamians for action and the value that is being speculated, I believe the government is obliged to address this issue as a priority. I hope you will agree with me in that regard.

Lynden R. Nairn - Facebook

Bahamians of Haitian descent in The Bahamas political arena

Smith: No Problem With Idea Of Haitian-Bahamian Political Party

By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

HUMAN rights activist Fred Smith, QC, said he sees no problem with Bahamians of Haitian descent organising to form political parties, insisting that the country is on its way to this group of society emerging as parliamentary leaders.

Mr Smith, who is also the president of the Grand Bahama Human Rights Association (GBHRA), told The Tribune yesterday that the stigma in the Bahamas that Haitians are of lesser value should be done away with.

He again chastised the Christie administration over its immigration restrictions maintaining that the government has encouraged a culture of hatred toward Haitians.

“Bahamians of Haitian descent are a large part of our society,” Mr Smith said. “So without doubt you will see people of that heritage as members of parliament and at the forefront of the political arena.

“I don’t see what is wrong with it. People have the freedom of association under the Constitution.

“I see nothing wrong with people promoting self interest in political parties for social benefits for different parts of the community.”

Mr Smith said it is time for the conversation in the country to focus on how immigration can create diversification.

He called on the government to follow the example of countries, including Canada and Korea; countries he said encourage different nationalities to contribute to shaping society.

“The Bahamas should have a different conversation. We should be saying yes to a form of immigration that creates diversity and multilingualism in the same way that Canada, Korea and China does.

“I think the Christie administration has done a great disservice. It is awful to be maligned and treated as second-class citizens.

“This kind of mentality that the Cabinet of the Bahamas is promoting is dangerous. We are hating our own people,” Mr Smith said.

He insisted that these latest comments should not be construed as supporting illegal migration.

Mr Smith and the GBHRA have been involved in an ongoing row with the government over its newest immigration restrictions. Mr Smith has likened the Carmichael Road Detention Centre to Auschwitz, a former Nazi concentration camp. He has also suggested that the Bahamas government is carrying out ethnic cleansing with the restrictions.

However, Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell on Monday shot back at those criticisms calling them a “highly personal campaign” against him.

“The question is this, which must be put to them: whose side are you on?” Mr Mitchell asked.

“The side of Bahamians and our national patrimony (or) are you siding with enemies of the country who would undermine the country’s security and well-being?

“These activists like to portray this as some poor migrants who are simply trying to make a better life, but increasingly this is a portrait of a sophisticated smuggling operation which is big business and in the process is threatening to swamp our country.”

With six more months to go in the fiscal year, repatriations conducted as of December 2014 have exhausted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration’s deportation budget.

Mr Mitchell has revealed that the Department of Immigration has spent around $1.7m to repatriate 4,628 foreign nationals in 2014.

February 18, 2015

Tribune 242

International conservationists, Biminites and other Bahamians want Bimini’s ecological heritage preserved

International Experts Call For Protection Of Bimini’S Environment

Tribune242

INTERNATIONAL conservation experts are urging the government to fulfil its promise and protect Bimini’s unique ecological heritage and the local industries that have depended upon it for generations.

The experts, hosted on a tour of Bimini by environmental advocacy group Save The Bays (STB), this week called for the official establishment of the North Bimini Marine Reserve. Among other important natural resources, the reserve would protect mangrove forests that serve as a nursery for the abundant sea life that has attracted visitors to the island over the years.

“From an ecological perspective, it’s incredibly important to maintain these mangroves in order to maintain the whole marine ecosystem,” said Rachael Silverstein, the Waterkeeper for Biscayne Bay, Florida.

“This is one of the only mangrove locations in this area and all of the important species that come from the Gulf Stream that people like to fish have habitats here and live in the nurseries here,” she said. “If we destroy that we also destroy our fishing industry and our diving industry and the repercussions can be felt across the Caribbean, across the Bahamas and certainly in Miami – we won’t be able to come here anymore to fish, to dive or snorkel.”

The global Waterkeeper Alliance is a leading non-governmental organisation that co-ordinates more than 200 stewards of the marine environment, or Waterkeepers, who are assigned to rivers, bays, lakes and coastal areas.

Sharon Khan, international director of the Waterkeeper Alliance, said the North Bimini reserve is one of several key protected areas for which the organisation is advocating around the world.

“I believe there is nothing more important than establishing marine reserves in ecosystems throughout this world that sustain our global life,” she said.

Wetlands

Alex Matthiessen, former Hudson Bay Waterkeeper and now CEO of the Blue Marble Project, said: “The (Bahamas) government has already established that they want to create this reserve, but they need to formalise it. They need to make it a legal reserve. The wetlands at the north end of the lagoon are incredibly important and are therefore vital to the local businesses and industries here.”

International conservationists have added strength to the concerned Biminites and other Bahamians who want to see the island’s ecological heritage preserved.

Prime Minister Perry Christie has yet to respond to these entreaties, including a letter from Bimini’s local council requesting that the reserve become reality as soon as possible.

The council asked that the Christie administration commit to the protected area swiftly, in an effort to ensure that developers do not construct a golf course on the island and to prevent further development on its northern tip.

The letter said: “It has become commonplace that major developments occur on our island without notice to its residents or to this elected council. We, therefore, respectfully ask that you respond to these requests as quickly as possible.”

The golf course was among the plans for Resorts World Bimini’s resort and casino development, which environmentalists claim has already caused extensive damage to the island’s renowned reef system, including many of the top dive sites.

Local advocacy group the Bimini Blue Coalition has issued a petition calling on the government to establish the reserve as repeatedly promised.

It has more than 600 signatures to date.

Despite Resorts World’s insistence that the golf course is now off the table, STB director Romi Ferreira said the pattern of frequently changing plans has left many sceptical and in need of official assurance.

As for the claim by Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources V Alfred Gray that the government is only waiting for conservationists to decide on the boundaries of the reserve, Ferreira pointed out that its proposed parameters have long been established.

In 2012, the Bimini Marine Protected Area Campaign submitted detailed images and descriptions of the proposed boundaries to government, including precise map co-ordinates.

October 30, 2014

Tribune 242