05092024 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, MAY 9,

BTC bids to seize yacht over $1.5m cable break

By NEIL HARTNELL

Business Editor

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has launched legal action in New York to seize a high-end yacht it accuses of causing $1.5m in damage to its undersea cable network.

The carrier, in legal papers filed on Tuesday, is seeking a US federal court order for the arrest of the multi-million dollar M/V Retriever after its alleged attempts to anchor off Cable Beach on April 27, 2024, caused “extensive damage” to an 800-metre length of its Bahamas Domestic Submarine Network cable infrastructure. Documents accompanying the lawsuit reveal that BTC had to re-route customer traffic of 20 Gbps (gigabytes per second) via the “very unstable” fibre

optic connection between Ragged Island and Long Island, while other clients’ communications had to be directed via the separate ARCOS system. The damaged cable provided Internet and communications services between Nassau and Fresh Creek, Andros.

New York court asked to approve high-end vessel arrest

Anchor hit 800m of NassauAndros link off Cable Beach

Customer traffic re-routed via ‘very unstable’ connection

Ex-minister: Don’t blame me over dolphins’ plight

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

AN ex-Cabinet minister yesterday blamed US bankruptcy trustees for the plight of Blackbeard’s Cay’s dolphins as he had agreed to care being provided prior to their potential sale.

Damian Gomez KC, former minister of state for legal affairs, told Tribune Business he has “nothing to do” with the eight previous dolphin fatalities or conditions that the five survivors are enduring at the abandoned tourism project off New Providence’s north coast.

B10

Describing itself as the “owner of Segment R1 of the Bahamas Domestic Submarine Network (BDSNi) submarine telecommunication cable system that connects The Bahamas with the rest in the world, carrying voice, data, video and Internet communications traffic”, BTC alleged: “On April 27, 2024, at approximately 4:27pm local time, the cable was damaged offshore of Cable Beach in Nassau, New Providence. “BTC was immediately notified by the cable’s alarm logs. Through a review of publicly available Automatic Information System (AIS) data, BTC

‘Two-step’ proposal on gas dealer margin rise

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

PETROLEUM retailers yesterday disclosed there has been “movement” on a proposed “two-step” solution to their margin woes as they warned: “We cannot wait until the Budget debate is over.”

Raymond Jones, the Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association’s (BPRA) president, told Tribune Business he planned to reach out to the Government as early as today to try and obtain an implementation “timeline” following both sides’ last meeting two weeks ago.

While encouraged, and believing the more than two-year push for a margin increase may have some momentum, he reiterated that the industry’s concerns must be resolved as “a matter of urgency” given that ever-increasing costs over the past 13 years have escalated to the point where dealers’ price-controlled fixed margins have effectively been wiped out. Asserting that the margin increase being sought is “not even close” to $1 per gallon, Mr Jones said what is proposed will allow gas station operators to “breathe” via a “short bump to cover costs” and

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor

THE Opposition’s leader yesterday argued that the Government “owes an explanation” for why it has retroactively revised the debt owed by Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) going back almost two years.

Michael Pintard hit out after the Ministry of Finance’s just-released public debt bulletin revealed that the figures for BPL’s debt have been hiked by around $70m for each of the quarters going back to end-June 2022 when compared to the numbers contained in the prior report.

As an example, the public debt bulletin for the 2023-2034 second quarter showed BPL owed debts totalling $85m at endJune 2022. However, the latest report covering the

Despite confirming that he now owns 50 percent of the Blackbeard’s Cay developer, Blue Illusions Ltd, in a move that has received Supreme Court approval,

he asserted that he “doesn’t own the dolphins” and has no desire or intent “of keeping additional pets”. Instead, Mr Gomez argued that those outraged by the surviving dolphins’ plight, and the deaths of another six in the 12 months to February 2024, should direct their anger

MICHAEL PINTARD

DAMIAN GOMEZ KC

BTC's Cable Beach fibre cable that was damaged by a vessels anchor.

Frequent job switches may not be best for your career

While job hopping can provide several benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. It is increasingly common for employees to move from job to job throughout their career. But, if a resume shows a candidate has a history of multiple short-term jobs, it may be viewed as a red flag.

The employer can see this as indecision, and may assume the worker will be exploring their next move within days of being hired. The company could feel they are unlikely to give total commitment to their job, or that they lack the ability to work well with others. No business wants to hire candidates

with unexplained gaps in their employment history as this will not put a potential employer’s mind at ease.

What is job hopping, and why is it done?

A job hopper is an employee who stays in their post for one year or less, constantly switching to fresh employment to keep themselves engaged or challenged.

Like everything in life, job hopping has its advantages and disadvantages. However, it is important to weigh up both sides to come to an informed conclusion that aligns with your career and personal goals. Employers often prefer candidates with a history of growth and progression.

Disadvantages

Changing jobs frequently may remove the opportunity to accrue vacation time, long-term benefits and compensation packages, such as retirement plans, promotions, raises and stable benefits. You may also perhaps lose some retirement income. You may have to “start over”, relearning processes while competing with employees who have longer tenure.

Nonetheless, frequent job hopping is definitely a red flag as employers may worry about your loyalty. So it is important to carefully consider the potential consequences of job hopping before making quick decisions.

The job hopping syndrome is not a disease. It is, however, a condition prompting employees to continuously switch jobs for various reasons, which sometimes results in discontent.

This is often experienced when employees become excited about a higher salary or an impressive job title, but never pausing to determine if the fit is right. This can result in an outcome where the job hop may not have been the best decision. Therefore, the saga continues.

Rationale

If you are constantly thinking about changing jobs, examine how the move fits into your

BISX partners over financial education

THE Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) has teamed with fellow financial services providers to educate students at three New Providence schools on savings, investing and insurance. The exchange, in a statement, said it had partnered with Bank of The Bahamas, the Bahamas Central Securities Depository and Bahamas First General Insurance Company to advance financial literacy in The Bahamas.

Jihanne HosmilloWilliams, Bank of The

Bahamas chief financial officer, said: “Financial literacy includes understanding and managing financial matters such as savings, budgeting, investing and debt management. Financial literacy education prepares students to make sound financial decisions.

“Bank of The Bahamas (BOB), as a financial institution, contributes a wealth of knowledge in this field. Bank of The Bahamas recognises the importance of financial education, and we are grateful for the opportunity. BISX had invited

us on this program, [and] understanding finance helps students of today become better consumers of tomorrow.”

Sanchia Rolle, of The Bahamas Central Securities Depository, added: “Financial literacy plays a key role in empowering future generations. As a former student of Doris Johnson’s class of 2006, it was heartwarming to share my passion for financial literacy with my fellow Mystic Marlins.

“It is my hope that as we educate young individuals

long-term career and development plan. Explore and dig deeper to uncover a clear intention, and articulate how it may help you, as there is a good chance you may discover the instability may not be in your current place of employment but, actually, with you.

Justify and use logical reasons as to why you left each position. Were you presented with a great opportunity that you could not pass up? Were you offered more money? Or given a chance to relocate to a new country? Whatever the motive, it is no longer job hopping when you leave multiple jobs every six months, as actually you are quitting each time - which may be unhealthy. Until

across The Bahamas about financial literacy, they will be better equipped to make informed and intelligent financial decisions both now and in the future.”

Speaking to the collaboration, Keith Davies, BISX’s chief executive, said: “BISX is pleased to have expanded our investor education initiatives to include our industry partners. While for many years BISX has focused on speaking to students about saving and investing, partnering with other organisations allows us to offer even more information to students.

“We believe that it’s a part of our corporate responsibility to create the next generation of investors, and we are thrilled that our partners feel the same way. We look forward to more partnerships and trips to schools in the future.”

BANK of The Bahamas chief financial officer, Jihanne HosmilloWilliams, and bank employees with BISX staff at St Augustine’s College.

BISX employees with Bahamas First speakers and CR Walker’s teachers and students.

PI RESORT PROJECT MAKES PARKING GARAGE SWITCH

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business

A PARADISE Island resort developer has revised its proposal by eliminating initial plans to convert a residential lot for a parking garage after it drew strong opposition from nearby residents.

HotelConsult Bahamas, developer of the former Paradise Harbour Club’ site, is instead planning to build a 100-space car park on land that it will lease from Atlantis in the latter’s laundry and utilities

zone.The car park will be built on a portion of Lot eight, Atlantis laundry and utilities, which is already commercially zoned. In the revised proposal, HotelConsult said it worked with Atlantis to “provide a solution which satisfies all concerns”. It added: “HotelConsult Bahamas Ltd has listened to the concerns of the community and have worked together with Atlantis Holdings Bahamas to provide a solution which satisfies all concerns relating to the provision of parking for this application. “This solution also accounts for future

expansion of the marina to the south of the currently proposed Paradise Yacht Club project.” The Town Planning Committee had deferred its decision on whether to approve the project’s site plan application, thus allowing the developer to submit a revised proposal and the lease agreement with Atlantis. Earlier plans submitted to the Department of Physical Planning revealed that the project is being expanded to a seven-storey hotel featuring a 46 percent increase in units compared to earlier renderings.

The number of hotel rooms and apartments,

which will be spread across the upper six floors, is being increased by 32 units - from the 69 cited last year to 101 in the latest version submitted to the planning authorities.

During the public hearing for the project, neighbours voiced concerns over the traffic the development would bring to that residential segment of Paradise Island as well as the developer’s proposed rezoning of one of its land parcels, Lot 13, from residential to commercial to facilitate a 74-space parking facility .

Residents said the resort should not be given permission to convert the property

as its commercial use would devalue neighbouring lots, while the parking garage would attract traffic and negatively affect the quality of life of nearby residents.

Neighbours also raised concerns about the developer’s decision to increase the number of rooms by almost 50 percent. After the hearing, developers said they will “do everything we can” to resolve their neighbours’ concerns and make the project a success.

At the time, Joshua Brooks, HotelConsult Bahamas’ representative, said: “We are glad the community came out this

PM’S NO INVESTOR IMPACT FROM GBPA FIGHT ‘ABSURD’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) licensees yesterday said it was ironic the Prime Minister has conceded their importance even though the Government refuses to engage with them or hear their concerns.

The Freeport Licensees Association, which is seeking to establish itself as the representative of the 3,000 businesses licensed by the GBPA, said in a statement that it was “encouraged” by Philip Davis KC’s acknowledgement during his speech to the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce dinner that approval of four-fifths of licensees is required for any meaningful change to the Hawksbill Creek Agreement.

“However, it is evident that a lack of consultation on amendments to the agreement and parallel legislation, along with the GBPA’s lack of genuine engagement and required licensee agreement, have all contributed to the current

impasse between the GBPA and the Government,” the Association argued.

“Both the Government and the GBPA indicate that our engagement and approval of changes are necessary – a fundamental position with which we not only agree, but one which is legally required. Yet there continues to be a lack of true discussion and engagement by either.”

Arguing that it was “absurd” to suggest the present dispute between the Government and GBPA over the former’s $357m payment demand will not impact investor confidence in Freeport, the Association argued that the best way to “break the chains” holding Freeport back - as Mr Davis called for - is for his administration to start rapidly processing investment-related approvals that have been held up in Nassau. The Prime Minister on Monday suggested none of the investors behind projects in Freeport’s $2bn investment “pipeline” have voiced concerns about potential negative fall-out

from the Government’s impasse with the GBPA, but these developments are already baked-in or underway.

“We once again extend an open invitation to Prime Minister Davis to engage in constructive dialogue with the licensee community. Collaboration and mutual understanding are essential for overcoming challenges and realising Freeport’s full potential,” the Association added.

“Likewise, we call upon the Grand Bahama Port Authority to genuinely engage licensees and the general public on what it is doing to remediate this impasse and, where answers exist, refute misconceptions that are rampant at this time.

“We ask you both to commit to transparency over the issues that are in dispute and work together to resolve. Any assertion that such public (and largely unanswered) discourse does not hurt investment potential is absurd. And none of us – licensees, the GBPA nor the Government

can afford that,” the Association continued.

“We wholeheartedly agree with Prime Minister Davis: Let’s indeed ‘break the chains’ that are holding back the development of Grand Bahama, beginning with expediting government approvals on critical projects that have been approved by the GBPA and will benefit us all. This is best done through collaboration, not arbitration.”

The Association also called for more “clarity” on the Government’s $357m reimbursement demand and why, after 55 years of inaction, it had decided to serve this now on the GBPA. “One pressing issue pertains to the sudden presentation of fees allegedly owed by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) after 55 years under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement,” the group added.

“The lack of clarity on this matter is concerning, especially considering the significant contributions

the GBPA has made to the Public Treasury of the Government of The Bahamas and to Freeport’s development, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters.

“We had anticipated a collaborative dialogue aimed at charting a path forward for the benefit of our island community. Instead, the discourse lacked critical details on any tangible solutions and remedial action. It failed to establish any forum for the genuine engagement and participation of licensees as those most familiar with and affected by the current and future state of Freeport.”

The GBPA itself, meanwhile, responded to the Prime Minister’s speech by saying it remains “laserfocused on the task at hand” in terms of bringing the island’s $2bn investment project “pipeline” to fruition. It also, in a move likely to annoy the administration, sought to take credit for all these developments

evening to learn more about the project and voice their concerns.

“We look forward to continuing to be a constructive member of the Paradise Island community. Residents can rest assured that we will do everything we can to resolve their concerns where possible and we hope to work in partnership with the community to make the project a success, to the benefit of Paradise Island, our existing and future Bahamian workforce and The Bahamas as a whole.”

when Mr Davis on Monday said these were brought by the Government.

“We are working every day to deliver the $2bn-plus of investments which the GBPA Group of Companies, through its affiliates, either initiated, is invested in,or is contractually involved in creating, and was instrumental in bringing the investors to the table,” the GBPA said.

“At the same time, it is important that the GBPA corrects any inaccurate, incomplete or selective representations regarding matters that impact our stakeholders. In the near future, therefore, GBPA intends to host a live event with its stakeholders to ensure that all the matters discussed in the public domain are placed in their proper context and the historical record is set straight.

“In the meantime, we encourage our stakeholders to remain confident in the resilience and potential of Freeport, and in our pledge to continue working diligently to see a prosperous future for Grand Bahama.”

‘EXPLANATION OWED’ ON BACK DATED REVISIONS TO BPL DEBT

2023-2024 third quarter had revised this figure upwards to $159.2m - an 87.6 percent jump. In similar fashion, the second quarter report showed BPL’s debt peaking at $192.3m in March 2023, but this has now been revised to $266.4m.

“They owe an explanation,” Mr Pintard told Tribune Business of the revisions to BPL’s historical debt data. “There may be a logical reason. We’d like to hear what accounted for what they did.” And he suggested the latest BPL numbers showed the extra funds generated by the up to 163 percent fuel charge hikes imposed on Bahamians during 2023 have not been used for the purposes previously announced.

The Government and BPL previously said the fuel charge hikes, imposed between October 2022 to March 2024 as part of a socalled “glide path” strategy, were necessary to enable the utility to reclaim previously under-recovered fuel costs. It was also advertised as a essential to enable BPL to repay a previous loan advanced by the Government and thereby reduce its outstanding debts.

However, BPL’s endMarch 2024 total debt stood at $255.4m. This represented just a $2.8m decline from the end-December 2023 figure just three months earlier, and only an $11m drop from the debt’s peak

at $266.4m at end-March 2023. With the debt still so high, Mr Pintard argued it appeared the monies generated by the fuel charge hikes have not been used for the purpose stated by the Davis administration.

“On the surface of it, it does appear that the funds were utilised for purposes other than what was stated publicly,” Mr Pintard asserted. “The Government should come clean to help us understand what they have done and how they have executed this.”

Jobeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport, could not be reached for comment yesterday. However, she confirmed to the House of Assembly in February “that BPL was granted a $110m loan by the Government to address the under-recovery of fuel costs as a result of the COVID- 19 pandemic”. She has also previously reaffirmed that BPL has reclaimed a significant portion of the under-recovered fuel costs.

Given that the Government is not supposed to loan money to, or subsidise, BPL, the fuel charge hikes that peaked last summer were to finance repayment of this loan. They were also to raise sufficient sums to pay-off BPL’s “under-recovered” fuel costs that resulted from the utility not passing these on to consumers 100 percent - as required by law and regulations - over the 12-month period from October 2021.

“We are very much concerned,” Mr Pintard told Tribune Business of BPL’s latest debt figures. “We have asked the question of the Government, and also asked the question of URCA (the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority). We have asked the Government why they have not satisfied in its entirety the BPL debt given that the ‘glide path’ was designed to do just that.

“What have they diverted these funds to? They have not revealed the terms of the agreement the Government

would have made with BPL in terms of the interest rate and other conditions for the loan, and why they have not made that available.”

Mr Pintard said the Opposition has directed the same queries to URCA because, as the energy sector regulator that approved the ‘glide path’ strategy developed by the Government and BPL, it was “duty bound” to also “account for the funds raised and use of those funds given that they have not satisfied the objective for raising those funds. We are anxious to hear from the Government and URCA with respect to these questions”.

The Opposition leader also reiterated the argument that the Government’s loan to BPL violated both the Public Debt Management Act and the constitution because it was not accounted for within the

approved budgetary appropriations authorised by Parliament.

Suggesting that the Government hopes this issue “will disappear”, Mr Pintard added: “The law, whether you look at the Public Debt Management Act or the constitution, does not provide for the movement of funds from the central government into state-owned enterprises except through Parliamentary appropriations or, again, outside the Budget cycle, by bringing the requisite legislation. The Government is glossing over that”.

Kwasi Thompson, the Opposition’s finance spokesman, echoed his party leader in a statement issued last night by demanding an explanation for the backdated revisions to BPL’s debt numbers as well as why the millions of dollars collected from Bahamian

businesses and households via last year’s fuel charge hike had not seemingly been used to pay this down.

“Now we have, with no explanation and no apology, a massive restatement of monies owed by BPL that differs from the previous report released just a few months ago by over $95m,” he argued.

“We have demanded an explanation as to why the monies collected from last year’s massive spike in the BPL fuel charges were not used to pay down this debt consistent with the express purpose approved by URCA. The Government has refused to give an accounting to the Bahamian people on what they did with the tens of millions in BPL fuel charges that legally could only be used to pay down the arrears.”

BAHAMAS POWER & LIGHT (BPL) HEADQUARTERS

Ex-minister: Don’t blame me over dolphins’ plight

to the respective US courtappointed trustees for Blue Illusions’ previous owners, Samir Andrawos and Victoria Iglesias.

He explained that he had given both trustees, Lawrence Katz and Joel Tabas, his consent to provide the dolphins with the required food and medical care. And Mr Gomez said he had also agreed to the dolphins’ potential sale to a Mexican group that had expressed interest in purchasing them.

However, a dispute arose after Mr Katz said he wanted the proceeds from the dolphins’ sale to be paid into his client account. Mr Gomez said his response had been “hell no”, and that he wanted these monies paid into an escrow account in The Bahamas given that Mr Katz is still disputing his taking possession of Mr Andrawos’ 50 percent Blue Illusions stake to settle $1.25m in unpaid legal fees.

The former Cabinet minister, who yesterday voiced “surprise” at the Blackbeard’s Cay situation and eruption of negative publicity around it, said he had left the trustees handling the personal bankruptcies of Mr Andrawos and Ms Iglesias to look after the dolphins and had not spoken to them for “months”.

“I had given the US trustees my approval to sell the dolphins once the money was kept in an escrow account locally having regard to their position,”

Mr Gomez told Tribune Business. “That was all I was saying. I wasn’t opposed to the sale, I wasn’t opposed

to persons looking after the dolphins.

“I said to him [Mr Katz] that I was not opposed to him doing that. The reality is this should be sold. He entered into this arrangement with this other group that was willing to feed them and provide for them.

I don’t own the dolphins. I spoke to the director of agriculture, Deon Gibson, and told him I’ve already indicated to the minister [Jomo Campbell] that the dolphins can be sold.

“I have no objection to it. The only thing I want is the proceeds kept in an escrow account having regard to the disputed position the trustee took. I didn’t really pay much attention to what they were doing. They had indicated they’d found someone willing to care for and feed the dolphins. I have no intention of keeping additional pets. I’m surprised by this. I have nothing to do with it.” Court documents obtained by Tribune Business give some support to Mr Gomez’s account as they show the trustees for Mr Andrawos and Ms Iglesias obtained approval from the Maryland and South Florida bankruptcy courts, respectively, in early December 2023 to incur expenses associated with feeding and caring for the Blackbeard’s Cay dolphins.

A December 14, 2023, filing by Mr Katz revealed that a Mexican group, Delfiniti De Mexico, had submitted an “expression of interest” in acquiring the dolphins and had begun due diligence on a potential sale of the bankruptcy estate’s Blue Illusions interest after

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NOTICE APPLEDALE LTD.

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NOTICE

The 44th Annual General Meeting of the Public Workers’ Co-operative Credit Union Limited will be held on Friday, May 31st, 2024, at Fusion Superflex beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Registration starts at 4:00 p.m.

All members are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served!!!

the two parties signed a confidentiality agreement.

As part of the deal, Delfiniti offered to fund the dolphins’ “up to $1,000 per day” care costs via a twopart deal. The Mexican group would cover these expenses during the due diligence period, with the agreement to be renewed every 15 days and a 15-day “notice of termination” period. And, if it decided to proceed with a sale, the funding would continue on a “longer-term” basis.

“The Chapter 11 trustee has been exploring various options related to the sale and monetisation of the debtor’s assets, including the potential sale of the debtor’s interest in Blue Illusions,” Mr Katz told the Maryland Bankruptcy Court, while admitting he and Mr Gomez are still disputing who owns the 50 percent stake previously held by Mr Andrawos.

“These efforts have been complicated by numerous factors, including the nature in which the membership interests in Blue Illusions are held (two separate bankruptcy estates in two different jurisdictions); difficulty obtaining records and information from Iglesias and the debtor; objections from third-parties in the Iglesias bankruptcy; the alleged fraudulent transfer of the debtor’s business operations on Balmoral Island; and the legal and political impediments in Bahamian law and assets located in The Bahamas.”

“Despite the fact that the Chapter 11 trustee is not the trustee for the assets of Blue Illusions, the Chapter 11 trustee has been very mindful of the care and

well-being of the dolphins and other marine animals that are purportedly owned by Blue Illusions, and the Chapter 11 trustee has been assured by Iglesias and others that they are being fed and cared for,” Mr Katz continued.

“The Chapter 11 trustee has explored various options for the sale and/ or donation of the marinelife, and has received an expression of interest from Delfiniti De Mexico, a Mexican corporation that has other similar business operations. Delfiniti has signed a confidentiality agreement, and has commenced due diligence related to a potential sale of the debtor’s interests in Blue Illusions and certain related assets.”

Mr Katz said he had been informed by Mr Tabas, as the Chapter seven trustee for Ms Iglesias in south Florida, that “the on-site veterinarian on Balmoral Island has been paying some or all of the expenses related to feeding the dolphins as Iglesias and/or her related family members and their business can either no longer pay the expenses or have elected not to pay the expenses.

“Tabas has requested that Iglesias provide weekly reports and accountings as to the expenses being paid, but such reports have not been forthcoming. Instead, Iglesias has haphazardly sent various copies of receipts and photos of expenses that she or her family and their related businesses are purportedly paying,” Mr Katz added.

“Accordingly, there exists a critical need to fund the payment of these expenses.

Delfiniti has offered to funds these expenses (up to $1,000 per day) while it conducts its due diligence.” The deal to fund the dolphins’ upkeep and care was approved by both US bankruptcy courts in December 2023 but it is unclear whether it was implemented in practice given the condition of the surviving Blackbeard’s Cay dolphins. The site for the Blackbeard’s Cay dolphin attraction is sub-leased from a Bahamian investor group, which included Cedric Saunders, the late Insurance Management chief; former Cabinet minister, the late Sir Charles Carter; and Abner Pinder. Mr Gomez yesterday confirmed that the property on Balmoral Island, located almost opposite Sandals Royal Bahamian resort, is leased from the Government.

A series of Bahamian Supreme Court rulings obtained by Mr Gomez in 2020 and 2021 permitted him to seize 50 percent of Blue Illusions’ shares, previously held by Mr Andrawos, and then sell this interest to recover the $1.25m debt owed to him from unpaid legal bills.

However, Mr Katz is challenging this by asserting that the half-ownership of Blue Illusions is the property of Mr Andrawos’ bankruptcy estate, and for the benefit of all creditors not just Mr Gomez. The trustee, who filed a legal action against Mr Gomez in the federal Maryland bankruptcy court, also alleged he was acting to prevent what was described as a “fraudulent and/or

preferential transfer” to the former minister. Mr Gomez yesterday reiterated that, as a Bahamian, the Maryland court has no jurisdiction over him. And he again pointed out that his appointment as The Bahamas’ ambassador-at-large to the Inter-American Council on Human Rights (IACHR) effectively gives him diplomatic immunity from being served with court proceedings and dragged into them.

“I actually own the shares [in Blue Illusions] by order of the court,” Mr Gomez told this newspaper. “I’m already out-of-pocket by over $1m. If they [the trustees] want me out they’ve got to pay me. If they want to dispute it, they have to keep the purchase price for the dolphins in an escrow account. If it’s in an escrow account they can’t say I’m trying to steal a march on them, and they can’t steal a march on me.

“He [Mr Katz] wanted this group to pay it into his client account. I said: ‘Hell, no. It should go into an escrow account in The Bahamas having regard to my interest. It would be one thing if they were releasing the claim to the shareholding. I wouldn’t have had a problem saying: ‘Go do it’. I could use the property for something else.”

Revealing that he has not spoken to Mr Katz “in months”, Mr Gomez added: “If the Americans want to act tough, they should be going to the Maryland court where the trustee was appointed and find out why the trustees are not looking after the dolphins.”

TEMPLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

On Saturday, May 11, 2024, Temple Christian School will hold its Entrance Examination for students entering grades 7, 8, 9 and 10.

TIME: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. LOCATION: High School Campus, Shirley Street

Application forms are available at the High School Office and should be completed and returned to the school by Friday, May 10, 2024. The application fee is twenty-five dollars ($25).

For further information, please call telephone number: 394-4481/394-4484.

HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS IN FINANCIAL LITERACY BOOST

HUNDREDS of high school students were introduced to the Bahamian digital currency and electronic wallet providers at a recent financial literacy fair organised by the Central Bank.

The event, designed to boost financial literacy among young Bahamians, saw students receive financial management tips and insights on healthy practices from employees of the Central Bank. They were also told about career opportunities at the banking regulator during the fair, which was held at the Central Bank on May 26.

The event, which was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, was produced and co-ordinated by Create Serendipity/Narvi. The financial literacy fair welcomed 476 students from 17 schools across the country, including C. R. Walker Senior High School; H.O. Nash Junior High School; Centre for the Deaf; the Government High School; A.F. Adderley Junior High School; Doris Johnson Senior High School; C.C. Sweeting Senior High School; C.H. Reeves Junior High School; Anatol Rodgers High School; T.A. Thompson Junior High School; Programme Sure; L. W. Young Junior High School; C. V. Bethel Senior High School; D.W. Davis Junior High School; C. I. Gibson Senior High School; S.C. McPherson Junior High School; and R.M. Bailey Senior High School.

Brett Lashley, the Central Bank’s deputy manager of currency, said: “The

purpose of the event is to introduce the students to some basic financial literacy concepts, best practices and tips that should be useful to them as they move into the adult world and start their careers.

“We have our digital wallet providers here today introducing them to the different apps and solutions they provide. We also have a Sand Dollar team here today introducing them to Sand Dollar [the Bahamian digital currency], and we have the bank’s human resources department introducing them to what a career with a regulator may look like.

“Definitely we think that the earlier you can start to introduce healthy financial habits, the better. Those habits tend to stick with you for life.”

Rovette Murphy, an 11th grade student at CV Bethel High School, said: “I knew a bit about digital banking and how you exchange money via phone or technology. I learned about what exactly the Central Bank does and what it is. I gained better knowledge of digital banking and better knowledge of loans, how to get loans, insurance and all of that.”

Similarly, Andre Sweeting, also an 11th grade student at CV Bethel High School, added: “I knew about digital banking from my aunt because she works at a bank and taught me different things about it, how it could be beneficial and the different things about it, how it could be beneficial and also the negative part about it.

“I have a bank account and I’m looking into going into digital banking. I gained knowledge that I shouldn’t have all my eggs in one basket, meaning money, and be versatile.” Antonia Jolly, a technical studies teacher at CV Bethel High School, said: “I came today to bring my students so they can see the different wallets, and how banking has changed and how technology impacts banking now.

“Digital banking is taking over right now. Learning about it now and seeing the benefits prepares them in their own life. In their own life, they can budget their money and learn how to use the apps so when they come out of school they can be efficient.”

Tashon Knowles, an 11th grader at Charles W. Saunders High School,

ESTATE OF LINCOLN WINTERS a.k.a LINCOLN ARLINGTON WINTERS

TAKE NOTICE that anyone having a claim against the Estate of of LINCOLN WINTERS a.k.a LINCOLN ARLINGTON WINTERS a.k.a ARLINGTON WINTERS a.k.a ARLINGTON ANTHONY

WINTERS late of Acadia Avenue, Nassau, Bahamas, who died on the 10th day of December, 2019, may submit such claim in writing to the law firm of MAILLIS & MAILLIS, Chambers, Fort Nassau House, Marlborough Street, Nassau, Bahamas, tel: (242) 322-4292/3, fax: (242) 323-2334 ON OR BEFORE the 31st May, A.D., 2024.

said: “When I came here, the information I learned increased my knowledge. I never knew as much as I learned here today.”

Steven Duncombe, senior master at the Charles W. Saunders Baptist High School, said first-hand information is key to understanding the evolving financial landscape. “We got the invitation from the Central Bank and thought it would be a great experience for our business students in grade 11,” he added.

“I think this is very important. Because, first of all as a former banker, I don’t know anything about the Sand Dollar, so to get first-hand information to assist, because that’s the area we are moving in with digital currencies. They can marry the theory they have been learning in class to practitioners who are here answering questions, and to see how it really works here at the Central Bank.”

The fair saw participation from digital wallet providers such as SunCash, Kanoo, Omni Financial, Mobile Assist and the Credit Bureau (CRIF). Various departments of the Central Bank, including human resources, were

also present. Breakfast and lunch boxes were supplied by Preacher’s Kid, owned and operated by Chef Simeon Hall Jr. Scieska Adderley, Kanoo’s public relations and communications manager, said: “There are a lot of people that still don’t know about Kanoo even though we have been around for about five years, and that’s understandable. We just wanted to inform them about what Kanoo is, what its benefits are, and the fact that it’s easy to use and convenient.”

Lori Russell, a SunCash representative, said: “We’re just letting all of the students and teachers know how easy it is to download a mobile wallet, and how easy and seamless it makes their life entirely. Whether they want to go to a Bamboo Shack and they don’t have enough cash on them, they can pull out their mobile wallet and pay in Sand Dollar, and at other establishments that accept it.

“They can apply for business services once they have their Business Licence. We have business services and mobile wallet services; they could buy gift cards, vouchers, do Sand

Dollar transactions, international Western Union transactions. We have several kiosks that we have deployed throughout all of the Family Islands to assist with the banked and the unbanked. One can load physical cash to convert to Sand Dollar, and can also top up mobile phones.”

Marissa Nixon, general manager for CRIF Information Services Bahamas, underscored the importance of The Bahamas’ first-ever credit bureau. “We as Bahamians tend not to pay our bills on time. The importance of the industry in this field is we provide an analysis or score. Similar to giving a student a grade in school, we give a grade based on how you pay your bills. This will then allow you access to a loan,” she said.

“Learning now so they can have a better financial future. What is a credit bureau, what is a loan, and if I have a good score will I have more access to loans? Graded on extension of credit or amount a person has, and if they pay their bills on time, is most important.”

BTC bids to seize yacht over $1.5m cable break

identified the vessel [M/V Retriever] as the only vessel in the direct vicinity of the cable at the approximate time and date that the damage occurred, with an AIS track indicating that the vessel appeared to be anchored, to have her anchor engaged in the cable, and to be trying to detangle her anchor from the cable.”

BTC produced an incident report to the southern New York federal court to support its case. “The below alarms indicate a fibre break event on the Bahamas Domestic Submarine Network subsea R1 segment (Fresh Creek to Nassau),” the report said.

‘Two-step’

“All customer traffic (50 Gbps) has been manually rerouted to alternate paths with available capacity. Twenty Gbps customer traffic rerouted on available capacity via Bahamas Domestic Submarine Network’s Ragged Island to Long Island segment (very unstable).

“Twenty Gbps customer traffic rerouted via available capacity on ARCOS Cat Island. Ten Gbps customer traffic rerouted via ARCOS Nassau. It is very important for customer traffic that we have full technical and financial support to restore the Bahamas Domestic Submarine Network subsea Fresh Creek to Nassau segment.” The Bahamian carrier, which is 49 percent owned

proposal on gas dealer margin rise

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that FRITZ PIERRE of Lazaretha Road #7, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

by the Government, said:

“BTC sent submarine cable divers from Subsea Marine Services Inc to inspect the cable at the location of the incident, and the divers produced a video showing the damaged section of the cable.

“The divers found extensive damage on over 800 meters of cable, which coincides with the area where the vessel appeared to be anchored according to her AIS track. The divers’ video indicates that the damage was most likely caused by an entangled anchor dragging the cable.

“As a result of the damage to the cable caused by the vessel, traffic was interrupted on the cable, BTC’s telecommunications operations were disrupted

FROM PAGE B1

they will then compete for greater volume through attracting more motorists to their respective businesses.

“We’ve had some movement,” he disclosed of the

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in The Bahamas, and BTC will incur cable repair costs that are expected to amount to approximately $1.5m.”

BTC said the M/V Retriever’s arrest, and seizure, were justified in law as a means to ensure the vessel and its owners/operators pay for the necessary repairs. “Under the general maritime law, there is a presumption of negligence when a vessel strikes a stationary object.,” it argued.

“The actions of the vessel in anchoring in the direct vicinity of an in-service submarine telecommunication cable constitute negligence per se. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of the vessel, BTC will incur damages that are expected to amount to

industry’s negotiations.

“We met with the Government. We re-emphasised the need to move forward with the proposal. We’ve given them the proposal. They said they were accepting of its recommendations, and it was discussed doing it in a two-step approach. We’re waiting to gear back from them as to what is the status.

“I’m hoping tomorrow [today] to see if we can get back to the Government and see if they can give us a timeline. I thin the time for negotiations has been completely exhausted. We’ve proposed and negotiated with the Government

approximately $1.5m to repair the cable. “BTC has a maritime lien over the vessel based on the vessel’s maritime tort against the cable, and BTC is entitled to arrest the vessel and recover in full the damages resulting from the maritime tort.”

It is asking the southern New York federal court to declare it has a “valid” maritime lien over the M/V Retriever, which is presently thought to be in the New York area, and that the vessel “be foreclosed... and thereupon that the vessel be condemned and sold in payment of the damages sustained by BTC”.

The Bahamian communications provider is demanding that it recover “the full amount of damages

on what is reasonable to sustain the livelihoods of petroleum retailers in the country. I think they accept that.

“They’ve looked at all the numbers. We just have to get to implementation of what in essence has been agreed. I think the Prime Minister is showing he has the fortitude to make tough decisions to get it done. Nobody wants to see increased costs, but to the extent increases have eroded our livelihoods and profitability, we have a right to make and return a small profit to invest in and stay in business.”

incurred... as a result of the negligent damage of the cable, plus interest, charges, costs and attorneys’ fees”. It is seeking the appointment of National Maritime Services to act as custodian of the M/V Retriever upon its arrest and keep it safe until the action is settled. Custodial charges amount to $889 per day. A BTC spokesperson said the carrier was unlikely to respond to Tribune Business questions on the wider issues raised by the cable break before press time last night. Fibre optic cable breaks resulting from the dropping, or entanglement, with ships’ anchors has been a recurring incident in The Bahamas for many years.

Petroleum retailers have remained steadfast in arguing that increases to the price-controlled margins of 54 cents per gallon of gasoline, and 34 cents per gallon of diesel, are “desperately needed” because it is impossible for them to cover costs that have escalated significantly since those levels were implemented more than a decade ago. It has forced many into constant losses, and put their business survival in danger.

Mr Jones yesterday pointed out that the imminent National Insurance Board (NIB) contribution rate increase of 1.5 percent, set to be evenly split between employer and employee, represents a further cost increase that gas station operators and the wider business community will have to bear when it takes effect on July 1. However, other industries do not operate on fixed margins set by the Government.

As a result, they can offset expense rises via price increases to the consumersomething that cannot be done with fuel. Mr Jones said the Association last met with the Government two weeks ago, although he declined to name the ministers involved. One is likely to have been Michael Halkitis, minister of economic affairs, and possibly even Prime Minister Philip Davis KC himself.

“We met with the relevant ministers who have responsibility and oversight for this industry, and can approve the measures that are necessary,” Mr Jones said. “We must have an increase put in as a matter of urgency. We need to move forward as a matter of urgency to implement margin adjustments.

“Our members and entrepreneurs require these adjustments. We cannot wait until the Budget debate is over. It needs to be agreed and put in now.”

The Association president added that he needed to “check the details” of what the industry is proposing, but added: “We’re looking for a reasonable margin that’s probably going to be 10-15 percent of what you’re paying...

“It’s not even $1 a gallon [increase]. It’s not even close, but it’s enough to allow us to breathe and give us a chance of making money provided we execute and attract customers to our stations. We have to build volume. It’s not going to work for everyone. It’s not a substitute for doing your job.

“It’s a few cents more per gallon, but we have to work and encourage those customers to come and buy gas from us. We have a responsibility to deliver excellent customer service. All we want is a short bump to cover costs, and as the economy grows we will make more money from volume as people drive more.”

The Government’s public position has always been against granting petroleum retailers a margin increase for fear it will increase costs at the pump for consumers. Yet in 2022 it sought to give dealers “breathing room” by providing the industry with tax rebates totalling $6m - $5.5m in cash and $500,000 as offsets to some of the taxes owing by operators. The Budget debate closes at

MILLER REJECTS CRUELTY CLAIM AFTER DEATHS OF DOLPHINS

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter

CLAIMS that the Bahamas government allows animal cruelty following reports of the death of several dolphins at Blackbeard’s Cay were rejected yesterday by Environment Minister Vaughn Miller, who branded them “unfounded”.

Speaking to Tribune Business yesterday, Mr Miller said the Cabinet is aware of the plight of the dolphins and the Davis administration is working “feverishly” to find a solution.

Mr Miller strongly objected to any claims that the government condones or ignores animal cruelty “in any way, shape, or form”.

He said: “To make those accusations is unfounded, but my ministry is aware and the Cabinet is aware. And we are working feverishly to bring this to a conclusion that I’m certain those in that community will be pleased with.”

He said he was “not at liberty” to divulge how the government plans to rectify the situation but maintained he is working along with the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources to resolve the matter.

He said: “I’m not at liberty to say that because we’re in communication with the Ministry of Agriculture Marine Division, who is their carriage. But we are aware and working feverishly to conclude this matter in a way that’s be favorable for all parties involved. We are not a part of an animal cruelty in any way, shape, or form. “So those accusations are totally unfounded.”

An article from Ric O’Barry’s Dolphin Project revealed captive dolphins were abandoned and living in poor conditions at a former amusement park on Blackbeard Cay, formally Balmoral Island.

The park was closed during the COVID – 19

pandemic and to date, eight of the 13 dolphins have died, with six fatalities alleged to have occurred in the 12 months to February 2024.

The initial eight dolphins were imported from Honduras in 2014, while five of their offspring were born at Blackbeard Cay. At least three of the dolphins have died from starvation.

In 2014, local environmentalist Sam Duncombe, president of reEarth, sued Blue Illusions, the company operating the park at Blackbeard Cay due to illegal importation of the dolphins and a lack of proper building permits.

The Supreme Court ruled later that year that the park should be closed

and the dolphins returned to Honduras, however, the resort continued to operate, closing only after financial constraints due to the pandemic.

Mr Barry warned The Bahamas could face a severe tourism backlash unless it saves the five surviving dolphins with thousands purportedly voicing outrage and threatening never to return to The Bahamas after his organisation posted details about the earlier deaths of eight dolphins at the former Blackbeard’s Cay development. He said that his organisation is willing to rescue the survivors and transfer them to a purpose-built dolphin “sanctuary” that is fully

Davis declines to answer series of questions on loan

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter

PRIME Minister Philip

“Brave” Davis declined to answer questions concerning a $500m IDB loan in the House of Assembly yesterday.

Members of Parliament held a question and answer time, and Opposition leader Michael Pintard posed a series of questions to Mr Davis regarding a $500m policy based guaranteed loan facility his administration secured in January.

equipped to cater to their needs at no cost, but have yet received permission from the government to do so.

Mr Miller said he could not speak to why the government has not taken Mr O’Barry up on his offer but maintained he is working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources to find resolution that will be “favourable for all parties involved”. He said: “I can’t speak to it. But again, we’re in communicating with the Ministry of Agriculture and as I said, when this matter is concluded it will be favorable to all parties involved.”

Mr Pintard questioned Mr Davis if the government finalised a $500m loan from the Inter American Developmental Bank (IDB) in January and why his administration has chosen to withhold the terms and conditions of the loan.

used for debt refinancing or to roll over debt.

“Madam speaker, the member is not prepared to answer that question,” Mr Davis replied.

“The member will not answer that question,” Mr Davis replied Mr Pintard then asked whether Mr Davis if he would provide the full terms and conditions of the loan, inclusive of interest rates, fees and charges, the approved uses and restrictions of the loan, a listing of the policy commitments the government made to secure the loan and confirmation that the funds cannot be

Mr Pintard then asked if any of the proceeds of the loan were used to cover debt refinancing or debt roll over.

“I’m not prepared to answer that question,” said Mr Davis.

Mr Pintard then asked him if any of the proceeds were used to repay overdraft or line of credit facilities that were used to rollover or refinance any public debt obligation and if so, was that an approved

TAKE NOTICE that anyone having a claim against the Estate of DIRK OLANDO DARVILLE late of Eastern Road, New Providence, Bahamas, who died on the 6th day of May, 2022, may submit such claim in writing to the law firm of MAILLIS & MAILLIS, Chambers, Fort Nassau House, Marlborough Street, Nassau, Bahamas, tel: (242) 322-4292/3, fax: (242) 323-2334 ON OR BEFORE the 31st May, A.D., 2024

use of the policy based guaranteed loan facility.

“Madam Speaker, I’m not prepared to answer that question, and just for the record, this honourable member is not in a position or prepared to answer any question today,” said Mr Davis.

Mr Pintard replied: “Just before I continue with the last couple questions in this section, will the honourable Prime Minister indicate to

the Bahamian people why he is not prepared to answer these questions, which is a part of his responsibilities?”

Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe interjected and pointed out that question was not submitted by the Opposition.

He said: “The question is not listed on the question paper, maybe he can give notice of it if he wishes an answer.”

Mr Pintard then asked why the governor of the Central Bank, John Rolle, said the government undertook a significant US financing to pay off bank overdrafts and to help rollover significant US debt while the financial secretary, Simon Wilson, insisted the only significant US dollar financing operation by the government during the month of January was not used to rollover any US debt.

DAVIS DECLINES TO ANSWER SERIES OF QUESTIONS ON LOAN

Mr Munroe said that question was not “permissible” as Mr Davis cannot speak for those individuals.

He said: “Madam Speaker, the question is objectionable. I don’t know how the prime minister is supposed to define why the governor of the central bank says what he says why anybody says what they say. And I would submit, Madam Speaker, that the question is not permissible. We can’t speak for other people we speak for us and occasionally for us and our house but that’s on things spiritual.”

“Can the Prime Minister explain why he is unable to communicate that and requires the member for Freetown to do so on his behalf?” replied Mr Pintard. He then questioned how the government will cover its $872.6m external debt rollover for the current fiscal year and which loan facilities and financing arrangements will be used to cover the nearly 1bn in external financing by

the end of the current fiscal year in June.

Mr Davis replied: “The member might recognise that there will be a budget debate very soon and most of your answers may be found in communication and or during the course of that debate.”

“Such tremendous uncertainty as to whether or

not the questions will be addressed and they are rather straightforward, Madam Speaker,” said Mr Pintard. Mr Pintard also asked Mr Davis how the government plans to strengthen agencies and the fiscal responsibility council and for an update on the fiscal responsibility council, especially regarding its reporting on the government’s fiscal strategy report and last budget.

Mr Davis declined to answer those questions but

added that the question and answer period is “for the public” and the public tells him to “remain focus”. He said: “The honourable member it’s not prepared to answer those questions at this time. I’m being guided by what I’m hearing out there as well as the member said this is for the public and the public is telling me that, you know, don’t be distracted. Remain focus. You on the wall doing a great work, don’t come down now.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that RAFAEL ANTONIO GOMEZ SIMO of High Vista, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that PJAY DOMINIQUE RENE of Bernard Road, Monastery Heights, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JASON JEAN BAPTISTE of Poincianna Avenue, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 9th day of April 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JOHN YVENET AUGUSTIN of Marshall Road , Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 2nd day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that SAMENDA AUGUSTE of P. O. Box N-356, Soldier Road, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 9thday of May, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that ROCHELLE CHARLES of Sandylane, off East Street, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 9th day of April 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.