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Volume: 120 No.209, November 1, 2023

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SHANTY DEMOLITION COUNTDOWN BEGINS Social Services to help displaced Bahamians not other nationalities By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net THE Ministry of Social Services will provide housing assistance to Bahamians facing eviction from the Kool Acres and All Saints Way shanty towns, where 162 illegal structures are set to be demolished starting Monday. People of other

KFC STAFF BACK TO WORK as ‘historic’ deal coming

nationalities will not get this help, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting suggested yesterday. He said the impending demolition activities show the government’s zero-tolerance approach to “illegal and unregulated structures” that “compromise the safety and orderly development of

SEE PAGE THREE

davis administration accused oF cronyism on miller deal By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net A BAHAMIAN investor who submitted a proposal for the Road Traffic Department accused the Davis administration of “cronyism” for choosing to house the department’s headquarters in Leslie Miller’s Summerwinds Plaza instead. Franklyn Robinson, the

former CEO of the now defunct Bahamas Automobile Safety and Inspection Centre, said years of work was wasted when the government rejected his proposal. He sought for 20 years to create a “one-stop” Road Traffic Department project. Even as the plans of his and his partner evolved, they were always rejected by the SEE PAGE THREE

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Trick-or-treat at Radio House FOUR-year-old Janiyah Woodside arrives at the Radio House Halloween event dressed as a police officer yesterday. Photo: Dante Carrer

Free FtX ticket claim For Pm denied

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

FTX FOUNDER SAM BANKMAN-FRIED

for Philip Davis KC, told Tribune Business the Prime Minister’s attendance at the December 1, 2021, matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers was “not contingent” on any gifts provided by the failed crypto currency exchange and its embattled founder, Sam Bankman-Fried.

THE best friend of a man killed on Monday night said the victim was transitioning to a godly lifestyle before he was killed. Coasha Patton said she collapsed when she got a call that Tennison Chisholm, 28, was killed leaving the gym. She was at the airport, walking to the gate before a trip to Dubai when she learned news that turned her world upside down.

communications spokesman

FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

SEE PAGE FIVE

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Prime Minister’s spokesman last night refuted claims he received free “court-side seat” tickets from FTX and other hospitality perks in attending a Miami Heat basketball game. Latrae Rahming,

Friend says victim was changing to a godly liFe

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Spooky treats at Radio House PAGE 2, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

LITTLE goblins and gremlins gathered at Radio House in their Halloween costumes yesterday as Tribune Media Ltd hosted a trickor-treat event. Hundreds of bags of candy were handed out to children who called

in to the foyer, where they were treated to spooky scares for Halloween in safe surroundings. The event has become a tradition - and Radio House thanked its sponsors who made the event possible, including Lightbourne

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Trading, Bahamas Wholesale Agencies, Lickety Split, Island Wholesale, Mortimer Candy, The Party Parlor, TD Cakes, Mario Knowles Candy, Master’s Arms Revival, Party Mania, Da Boundary Restaurant and Unique Arts.

CHILDREN young and old enjoyed a trick-or-treat event yesterday at Radio House. Photos: Dante Carrer

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Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 3

Shanty demolition countdown begins

SHANTY town residents have prepared themselves for the demolition that government has warned is coming, however, concerns remain as they have nowhere to go. Photo: Moise Amisial from page one our nation”. “We recognise the hardships many face and efforts are underway to facilitate as smooth a transition as possible for affected residents,” he said. “Let there be no misunderstanding –– safety, order, and the rule of law will be upheld without compromise.” During yesterday’s press conference, Mr Sweeting, the head of the Unregulated Communities Action Task Force, referred often to the Ministry of Social Service’s role in addressing the potential human consequences of the evictions, but no one from Social Services was there to answer questions from the press. It is unknown how many

people will be affected or helped or for how long they will receive housing assistance. “Social Services are assisting Bahamian citizens in that regard,” Mr Sweeting said about housing, adding: “Social Services will provide housing.” “We understand that Bahamians do live in these unregulated communities so we ensure that the Bahamians are assisted.” Mr Sweeting suggested that non-Bahamians would be dealt with differently. The Department of Immigration, he noted, could deal with those who lack permits or legal status to be in the country. Asked about the potential for increased homelessness,

he said: “The work permit holder is obligated by law that if you get a work permit for an individual, you are to provide housing for them. That is immigration law.” Mr Sweeting said law enforcement officers will monitor activities in the shanty towns until demolitions begin. He said strict access control will be enforced on the demolition day to ensure a safe process. He said there are more than ten unregulated communities in New Providence and that shanty towns across the country will be targeted strategically. Authorities posted eviction notices in the Kool Acres and All Saints Way communities on October

Davis administration accused of cronyism on Miller deal

LESLIE Miller’s Summerwinds Plaza, which is to become the new home of the Road Traffic Department. from page one Progressive Liberal Party and Free National Movement administrations. He said a senior Davis administration official advised him to stop his efforts because many public service members were against his project. “I knew Leslie would have gotten it because it was rumoured that he would get it, so it wasn’t a surprise to me, and I really refused to even pursue it anymore, and it is sad that we are going to allow this political process and the cronyism that exists to continue to cause suffrage for the Bahamian people because it’s the Bahamian people who will suffer,” he said yesterday. Government officials did not respond before press time to questions about the merits of Mr Robinson’s proposal. The businessman said he

proposed building a modern four-storey building to house the Road Traffic Department headquarters. He said technology would have been available to issue license plates, driver’s licenses and detect fraud. He said company officials eyed acres of property just west of Government High School for the facility, which he claimed would have taken less than two years to build. He also proposed building nine new sub-offices in Grand Bahama and the Family Islands. “Had the FNM approved the project, we would have been in a new facility,” he said. Mr Robinson said the $30m project would have been funded by his company, PTI Bahamas, in a 20-year partnership with the government. In 2014, when the Road Traffic Department issued a Request for Proposals to

modernise vehicle licensing processes, Mr Robinson’s group partnered with two German companies –– UTSCH AG, which is among the market leaders in licence plate security, and MAHA Maschinenbau Haldenwang GmbH & Co. KG (MAHA), the global manufacturer and supplier of vehicle safety testing equipment –– on the relevant components of their proposal. Mr Robinson said despite partnering with premier companies, his proposal did not attract the government’s interest. Meanwhile, Public Service Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said yesterday that the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Works are renovating Mr Miller’s space. “Until such time, a lease will be engaged once the building is occupied, so that’s where we are in the process,” she said.

2. Unlike in the past, there are no immediate signs that the government’s eviction plans will be stymied in courts. Supreme Court Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson ruled earlier this year that the Minnis administration’s 2018 shanty town eradication policies were legal. That decision helped pave

the way for the government to initiate an airtight legal process under the Buildings Regulation Act. Many of the Haitian residents in the shanty towns have told The Tribune they are unemployed or are temporary workers with dependents and nowhere to go. Some said potential

rental units are unavailable because they are under renovation. Others said landlords limit how many children can live in a space, prohibiting families with more than a few children. The residents have taken the government’s warnings seriously. Many have packed their bags and are ready to move out.

Labour on the Campus fair held to help students plan for the future PAGE 4, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net DOZENS of senior high school students attended a career fair at the Andre Rogers National Baseball Stadium yesterday, an initiative to assist students entering the job market. Labour and Public Service Minister Pia Glover Rolle said the fair –– called “Labour on the Campus” –– was organised by the Ministry of Labour in partnership with the Ministry of Education to help students plan for the future.

“Preparation is key, so we have put together a career fair that’s an expanded version because we don’t only have employers present here, but we have colleges present,” she said. “We have institutions that provide scholarships to young people, so we are sending them on the trajectory not only in terms of providing them with employment but those who want to pursue tertiary education before employment,” said Mrs Glover Rolle. For her part, Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said she is looking forward to the

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event’s outcome. “We’re hoping and praying that when our young people leave high school that they leave enthusiastic and they understand that the economy is theirs to grasp and to participate fully, that there is no one opportunity and they have an array of opportunities that they can choose from, and I believe that this will prove to be a very excellent stimulus for the passions of our young people,” she said. Officials said similar initiatives are planned for students on the Family Islands. PUBLIC Service Minister Pia Glover Rolle and Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin spoke to students attending a career fair at the Andre Rogers National Baseball Stadium yesterday. Photos: Moise Amisial

TRAFFIC POLICE GET NEW UNIFORM SHIRTS

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net ROYAL Bahamas Police Force traffic officers will wear new “dry fit” uniforms to protect them from the sun. Acting Commissioner Leamond Deleveaux informed the press about

the change yesterday, saying the officers will be easily identifiable. “So we are saying to the public, once you see those officers in uniform, they have the police marks written on the back of their shirts in addition to crests and their police numbers.” He said a similar change would be seen on members of bicycle units working downtown.

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Friend says shooting victim was changing to a godly life THE TRIBUNE

from page one “I collapsed and lost track of everything that was going on,” she said. “I cancelled my trip immediately.” Ms Patton said she and Tennison were friends for almost a decade. She said he messaged her daily. She said she felt something was wrong when he didn’t message her on Monday. “Tennison and I were always foot to foot behind each other,” she said. “Our outings were never planned. Wherever I am, he was sure to be there. Even if it was a place that made him uncomfortable, it didn’t matter to him.” “We never went to sleep without making sure we were inside our home safe.” Chief Superintendent of Police Chrislyn Skippings said Tennison was shot earlier this year and was on bail for attempted murder. Ms Patton said he never told her he felt unsafe or threatened.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 5

“I asked him numerous times if everything was okay, and he said yes,” she said. She said she is in denial about her friend’s death, describing him as kind, the life of the party, and a gifted singer. “It doesn’t feel real to me,” she said. Ms Patton, the owner of Eyedeal Minks, said despite his past, Tennison dreamt of opening up a clothing store. “He wanted to get into selling clothes and open up a storefront,” she said. “He spoke to me about it all the time. He never wanted to work for anybody.” “He was transitioning gradually from what I’ve noticed. Over the past few months, he started involving God in a lot of his plans.” A video shared on social media showed the deceased singing in a church after he was shot earlier this year. His death was the 81st murder for the year, according to The Tribune’s records.

COASHA Patton and Tennison Chisholm

DISMISSED WORKER WINS JUST UNDER $2,000 OF THE MORE THAN $50,000 HE SUED MOT FOR By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net CHIEF Justice Ian Winder ruled that the government pay $1,963.19 to a former Ministry of Tourism contract worker, far less than the more than $50,000 the man sought. Robert Forbes, the plaintiff, sued the ministry and the Office of the Attorney General after alleging his contract was breached and he was wrongfully dismissed. The ministry employed Mr Forbes under rolling fixed-term service contracts between 2003 and December 17, 2018. He was initially employed under a two-year fixedterm contract that was extended for a year. After that, he was hired under three-year fixed-term contracts. His last position was as assistant manager in the human resources department.

The ministry first directed him to take preretirement leave in an August 11, 2017, letter. However, he did not take pre-retirement leave, but instead remained to train an employee from the IT department. On February 1, 2018, his supervisor told him the permanent secretary wanted him to take his 218 days of vacation leave immediately before retiring. He was several years past retirement age at the time and did not protest. He remained on the ministry’s payroll while on vacation. He was eventually informed that when his vacation leave ended on December 12, 2018, his employment benefits would end, too. Mr Forbes argued that while the ministry could terminate his contract anytime, the Employment Act guaranteed him the right to a minimum notice period, which he claimed he did not receive.

He also argued that the ministry had continuously employed him, and this should have been considered when assessing compensation due to him. Ultimately, Chief Justice Winder concluded he did not satisfy the burden of proof required to show his fixed-term contracts were one continuous contract of employment starting in 2003. He ruled that the plaintiff was not entitled to sums for lost responsibility allowance or gas allowance and could not receive money for the balance of his contract term because his agreement was terminated according to specified provisions. However, he agreed that Mr Forbes was not paid gratuity or compensation under section 29 of the Employment Act when his contract was terminated. He consequently granted judgment for nearly $2,000 to the plaintiff.

DENGUE CASES UPDATE

THE GOVERNMENT issued a new update on the number of dengue fever cases yesterday, with 226 recorded in the nation to date. Of those, New Providence recorded the most, with 143, and Grand Bahama followed with 79 cases. Other solitary cases were recorded in Abaco, the Berry Islands, Exuma and Eleuthera.

PAGE 6, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

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Tourism record a sign of healing post-COVID THE news that The Bahamas has set a new record for tourist arrivals is not only welcome, but a sign of our nation’s healing. When the COVID pandemic ripped around the world, and shattered our own tourism industry, recovery seemed a long way off. The first task for any administration after the last election, no matter who won, would be to rebuild our economy from the blow struck to us by COVID, itself following the previous blow inflicted by Hurricane Dorian. Our tourism industry has not only done that now, but gone one better – and set a new record. Total visitor arrivals have already equaled 2019’s full-year record of 7.2m, with still two months of the year to go. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who is also Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, is not resting on his laurels – and has set his sights on another 800,000 arrivals by the end of the year to hit a total of eight million. The lion’s share of those visitors have come by sea – just shy of six million so far, and the new cruise port is playing its part in enhancing our presence as a destination and bringing in more ships, more passengers and more money. It is unashamedly a success story, and it is well worth applauding. Certainly, people will have been bursting to travel again after the enforced lockdowns and shut-down air routes of pandemic times – but making the most of that desire is not to be taken for granted. Mr Cooper insists that the success is “no fluke”, which if so we can look forward to success in future years too. It would be fair to say that not only getting back to pre-pandemic levels of tourism but exceeding them is very much a job done.

GOVT AND FTX REALTIONSHIP BEARS WATCHING THE thorny revelations about FTX continue to drip out as court cases proceed. First, there was the claim in a book about Sam Bankman-Fried that he had considered paying off the national debt of The Bahamas and that he had discussed the idea with Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. That claim was swiftly rebuffed by the Office of the Prime Minister, which said that the suggestion was “never entertained”. Next came a claim in court documents of an email in which Mr Davis reportedly asked Mr Bankman-Fried to advise Mr Davis’ son on a digital assets project he was working on. That claim has not been countered so far, though there was no suggestion of wrongdoing by Mr Davis in regard to the email. The Coindesk website however suggested it “underscores the cosy relationship” FTX had with Bahamian officials. Mr Bankman-Fried said in court that he talked to Mr Davis’ son. And now another claim in court documents suggests that Mr Davis and his wife were given courtside seats for the Miami Heat. FTX was the sponsor of the Heat’s arena. Again, the Office of the Prime Minister has spoken up, saying Mr Davis had attended a Miami Heat game but not on the FTX dime. It is however another item in a slow drip-drip of stories revealing FTX’s connections with Bahamian officials. As the meat of the case emerges, it will be asked whether anything was done that might have been more questionable – such as perhaps allowing individuals to withdraw their funds at a time when trading was supposed to have been locked down. The ongoing case will have many more things to come – not least of all what appears to be disastrous handling of funds by FTX. It will bear close viewing.

BRITAIN’s King Charles III, centre, poses for a photograph with secondary school students during his visit to the Eastlands Library to learn about a project that restores old libraries and encourages reading amongst children in the community in Makadara district of Nairobi, yesterday. King Charles is in Kenya for a four-day trip, his first state visit to a Commonwealth country as monarch, underscoring his commitment to an organization that’s been central to Britain’s global power and prestige since World War II. Photo: Thomas Mukoya/AP

Some PLP’s hearing voices? EDITOR, The Tribune. IT HAS been written that: ‘Whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad.’ This bold and provocative quote has caused many persons to act out of the box, across the board. There are others who remind me of the fabled Don Quixote, the deluded hero and protagonist of a novel by a Spanish author hundreds of years ago. He was accompanied by his faithful valet called Sanchez. In Bahamian politics I submit that we have many home grown Don Quiotes within out midst and an abundance of Sanchezs. The PLP will be holding a national convention within a matter of days. It has been announced that several persons will challenge for the position of National Chairman and perhaps other leadership positions. It is interesting that, so far, no one has declared that he/ she will challenge the Hon. Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, KC,

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net MP (PLP-Cat Island) position of Party Leader. Apparently there are persons who are ‘peeved’ with the Hon. Fred A. Mitchell, (PLP-Fox Hill) our erstwhile Minister of Foreign Affairs and PLP National Chairman due to the fall out from the nomination process for the party’s nomination process for the West End and Bimini constituency. Mr. Mitchell in my view is one of the best National Chair person that the party has ever had save for the late Hon. Bradley Roberts and the late ‘Dud’ Maynard. Mitchell has a very stern facial expression and he is not known to tolerate ‘foolishness’ and those traits may well cause some fellow PLPs not to gravitate towards him or even to ‘like’ him. That is quite fine, but he is a proven hands on administrator and political

operative, bar none. This is no time to be playing musical chairs, pardon the pun, with the National Chairperson’s position. The New Deal PLP, led by the esteemed Party Leader, is going into its third year in governance. There is a heavy agenda that the PLP must flesh out over the course of the next eighteen (18) months. There will be little time for frivolous and vexatious distractions. If so-called party members are unable to fish, they should be able to cut bait or they should get the hell out of the boat. Don Quixote was ‘known’ by his family and fellow villagers to ‘hear’ voices. Is it possible that there might be some within the PLP who may be hearing ‘voices’? God forbid, but if there are any, well has it been said that: ‘Whom the gods would destroy, the first make mad’. Jr

ORTLAND H BODIE, Nassau, October 29, 2023.

A weekend of empty promises! EDITOR, The Tribune. THIS past weekend, the full machinery of both the Progressive Liberal Party(PLP) and the Free National Movement(FNM) rolled into west Grand Bahama. They were in full campaign mode. The showmanship, the high fives, and the fist bumping were everywhere. It was evident (to me at least) that emotions have been stirred in both political camps. Not surprisingly, there were - in my opinion- a laundry list of unrealistic promises emanating from both camps. The (FNM) promised improved banking facilities, improved airports, better schools, and much more. The (PLP)

promised clinics upgrade and road improvements, among other things. But the looming question is “why should it have taken the untimely death of a sitting (MP) and subsequent by-election to spur these improvements?” I am not in the business of predicting winners and losers, so it matters not to me who wins or looses. If history is any judge, no matter who wins, nothing will change. Conditions on the ground will remain the same. Community improvements should be done as a matter of routine. The West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency was represented by both major parties, who have both failed to make noticeable improvements

within the constituency. What we now have is politicians playing politics with human suffering. They are preying on the emotions of the unsuspecting voters; unfortunately. Rhetorical assignations are not uncommon during political campaigns, and so far, the fight appears above board, but I have to remind myself that it is still early. I am reminded of the song which says “you only know me when you need me”. Nothing will change, and I am under no illusion to think otherwise. Left shaking my head! ZEPHANIAH BURROWS Nassau, October 30, 2023.

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Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 7

Buckeye resolves odour issue that affected residents living nearby in Grand Bahama

BUCKEYE Bahamas Hub facility in Grand Bahama.

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net BUCKEYE Bahamas Hub said it had resolved an odour issue that affected nearby Grand Bahama

residents last week. The source of the odour was traced to one of the oil tanks at the facility, according to a company official. Kim Pratt, manager of government relations at Buckeye, said measures

have been put in place, and the odour has subsided in affected areas. She said the complaints are being monitored. Last Friday, Buckeye Partners became aware of nuisance odours near its

Buckeye Bahamas Hub facility. The company reported local wind conditions exacerbated the spread of odours to nearby residential areas. Buckeye conducted investigations into the underlying

cause of the odour. In a press statement the company released Friday, Buckeye said it was evaluating temporary measures to reduce the odorous nuisance. Buckeye also said it monitored vapour

concentrations and did not find levels above acceptable safety limits. The company said the safety of its workforce, the communities where it operates, and the environment are important.

MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER OF DARREN MAN ACCUSED OF FIVE SEXUAL ASSAULTS BASTIAN IN NASSAU VILLAGE IN MAY of a friend’s two younger sisters By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN has been remanded after allegedly killing a 24-year-old man on bail in a drive-by shooting in Nassau Village in May. Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley yesterday charged Ringo Ellis, 26, with murder. Ellis, and an accomplice,

is accused of driving to Derren Bastian in a grey Japanese vehicle as the man stood outside a takeout window on Jackson Street on May 21. The accused then allegedly killed Bastian before driving from the scene. At the time of his death, Bastian was on bail for armed robbery. The accused was told that his matter would be

moved to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services unless a higher court grants him bail. Before being taken into remand, Ellis was allowed a moment in court with his relatives. His VBI is scheduled for service on February 8, 2024.

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN is accused of five times sexually assaulting a friend’s two younger sisters in the last two months. Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged Ricardo Lewis, 30, with five

counts of indecent assault yesterday. The man, who Kenyatta Gibson represented, was granted $7,000 bail. He is accused of five times inappropriately touching a 10 and 14-year-old girl while they were visiting his apartment between September 1 and October 26.

Lewis pleaded not guilty to all five charges. Under bail, he must sign in at the Carmichael Road Police Station every Sunday by 6pm. He was also warned not to contact the witnesses or the alleged victims in this matter. His trial is set to begin on December 1.

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Progress needed as lines blurred for domestic and care workers PAGE 8, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

SUNDAY, October 29, was the first International Day of Care, declared by the General Assembly of the United Nations. This is to acknowledge the need for investment in the care economy and the development of systems that value care work and reduce the burden of care work which is disproportionately undertaken by women and girls. In its communication on International Day of Care, the United Nations mentioned its “view to recognising, reducing, valuing, and redistributing unpaid care and domestic work and support.” It did not mention, however, compensation for care which is a large gap. It is quite incongruent to have a day dedicated to recognizing care work and, in particular, unpaid care work, without any mention of the need to not only redistribute it, but compensate it. It is possible that the thinking is that we need to redistribute care work so that it is better balanced and does not burden anyone that there would be no need for compensation, but it is important to acknowledge that we are a long way off from a situation where care work is redistributed and does not disproportionately impact people in situations of vulnerability. People try to “logic” their way out of accepting an appropriate share of care work. They decide that someone else should do it because they do not have a job or, these days, because they work from home anyway, so they’re “right there.” People may also use gender stereotypes to assign work to other people. They may say that women and girls are “better” at caring for others, though we ought to know by now that women and girls are socialized in a particular way and given a set of responsibilities, and this is not synonymous with being “better” at anything. In the global care workforce of 381 million people, there are 249 million women. Women do 76.2 percent of unpaid

THE TRIBUNE

By Alicia Wallace

care work which is more than three times the amount that men do. Care work as women’s work is an idea that has been normalized all over the world. Care work is often discussed and regarded as a part of a particular role, assigned to women in this part of the world, rather than work. A mother staying home from her paid job to take care of a sick child is understood as a mother being mother. It is not understood as work. A mother planning, hosting, and cleaning up after a birthday party is seen as motherhood. It is not seen as work. A daughter moving her mother into her home and taking care of her alone every night and weekend is seen as being a woman and daughter. It is not seen as work. These exercises of motherhood, daughterhood, and womanhood are unpaid because they are performed by people with relationships that come with those expectations, especially now that governments have significantly reduced investment in social protection, but if they were performed by someone else who is paid, they are more readily considered work. Not only is it work, but many people regard it as undesirable work. It is the kind of work very few people want to do, yet it is often unpaid or underpaid. Care work and domestic work are often discussed together because they often intersect. We often see job advertisements that detail the tasks for a housekeeper and somehow include supervising and preparing a meal for children after school. Similarly, job advertisements for babysitters often include tasks such as washing dishes, doing laundry,

and cleaning the house, and this goes beyond the tasks associated with childcare. Particularly where domestic and/or care workers are liveins, the lines are —often intentionally—blurred. The International Labour Organisation Convention 189 is a Domestic Workers Convention that acknowledges the way the domestic workers increase job opportunities for people with family responsibilities, care of elderly people, children, and people with disabilities, and send remittances to home countries, all of which contribute greatly to the global economy. Convention 189 defines domestic work as “work performed in or for a household or households” and domestic worker as “any person engaged in domestic work within an employment relationship.” Article 5 states that members are responsible for ensuring that domestic workers “enjoy effective protection against all forms of abuse, harassment and violence.” The workplace is often a site of violence and harassment, and this spurred the development of Convention 190 on Eliminating Violence and Harassment in the World of Work which The Bahamas ratified in November 2022, but has yet to implement. When the workplace is also the home, the risk of violence and harassment increases, and this can further increase the vulnerability of people who experience oppression including women and migrant workers. Article 6 calls for domestic workers to have fair employment terms, decent working conditions, and decent living conditions if living in the household where they work.

Particularly where domestic and/or care workers are live-ins, the lines are —often intentionally—blurred.

REMEMBERING A FEMINIST ADVOCATE Audrey Ingram Roberts was a feminist advocate, active in the Caribbean women’s rights movements for decades. She was a part of several networks, regularly engaged with feminist advocates in other countries including Barbados, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago, and authored and contributed to many policy papers, research papers, and other valuable resources. Those of us who knew her were inspired by her dedication to the women’s rights movement and admired the ease with which she seamlessly integrated her expertise into the ongoing work of feminists in The Bahamas and across the Caribbean region. I was fortunate to meet Audrey Roberts through other feminists in The

Bahamas. She was kind, open to conversation, and honest in her communication. In the early days of Women’s Wednesdays—a monthly event series by Equality Bahamas which brings women together to discuss issues—I reached out to Audrey about a session on women and the economy. Though we had not spoken for a while, she responded with great excitement and started working on her presentation immediately. We had several exchanges between the invitation and the event. I told her that, at that time, we had a rather small audience that was more accustomed to panel discussion than presentations, and she assured me that she was prepared to speak to any audience of any size. She reminded me that the value of our work was not determined by mere numbers, but was in our commitment, our consistency, the community we were steadily building, and being able to share in ways that did not just inform, but activated people. Over the past few days, as people across the region learned of her passing,

many messages have been shared expressing grief as well as gratitude for her life and the privilege of knowing her. Someone said they were friends from the age of nine. Another person met her only once, at a meeting in Barbados, and noted her encouragement and kindness. It has been beautiful to see the love and sit in the memories that people have shared and will likely continue to share over the coming days. In recent years, my conversations with Audrey were largely by phone and email. She was enamored by her grandchildren and spoke of them often. She was a trusted friend, a respected mentor, and a deeply loved woman who steadfastly stood for and with other women. She was a source of encouragement, and she will always be an example of clarity of vision and the practice of embodying feminist values, from everyday work and advocacy to home and friendships. May we all be so committed to what we believe in and what we value that we live it as fully as Audrey Ingram Roberts did.

AUDREY Ingram Roberts (middle) with two Information and Communications officers of the Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI). Photo: Audrey Roberts.

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Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 9

JAPAN’S AUTOMAKERS UNVEIL TECHTALK EVs GALORE AT TOKYO SHOW By YURI KAGEYAMA AP Business Writer

TOKYO (AP) — “We love battery EVs.” Takero Kato, the executive in charge of electric vehicles at Toyota, said that not once, but twice, to emphasise what he considers the message at this year’s Tokyo auto show. It’s a message ringing clear at the Tokyo Mobility Show, which will run through Nov. 5 at Tokyo Big Sight hall and where battery-powered electric vehicles are the star at practically every booth. Mazda Motor Corp. is highlighting a sportscar concept that is a plug-in EV packed with its signature rotary engine. Honda Motor Co. is showing off its Prelude sportscar EV concept. Toyota Motor Corp.’s lean angular Lexus concept, set to go on sale in 2026, is an electric vehicle running on lithium-ion batteries. Journalists got a preview last week ahead of the show’s public opening Saturday. U.S. automakers like General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. aren’t exhibiting at the show and have not taken part for some years. The Americans make up a very tiny fraction of Japanese auto sales and have had a hard time cracking a market where domestic makers remain powerful. Among the foreign makers taking part are Mercedes-Benz, a perennial Japanese favorite, and China’s BYD. Kato denied he repeated his words because he is worried Toyota isn’t perceived as loving EVs enough. Toyota executives have acknowledged that Japan’s top automaker has fallen behind rivals in EV development like Tesla of the U.S. and China’s BYD Auto. That is partly because of

THREE ASTRONAUTS RETURN TO EARTH AFTER SIX-MONTH STAY ON CHINA’S SPACE STATION

MEDIA members and guests take pictures and film the FT-Se after Toyota Motor Corp. CEO Koji Sato spoke during a briefing on the media day at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo last week. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)

By CHRISTOPHER BODEEN Associated Press TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Three Chinese astronauts returned to Earth on Tuesday morning after six months aboard China’s orbiting space station. Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao emerged in good health from the return capsule near the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on the edge of the Gobi Desert, the official Xinhua News Agency said. The station’s new threeperson crew arrived to the Tiangong station last week.

Toyota’s past success in hybrids, exemplified in the Prius, which have a gasoline engine in addition to an electric motor. Toyota already sells a tiny two-seater called C+pod and the bZ4X, co-developed with group company Subaru, as electric offerings, but not much else. And it is eager to play catchup. As the first serious EV from Toyota, the Lexus LF-ZC will serve as a true test for how Toyota fares in a sector that still comprises a minority of the global market but is growing quickly, given priorities like climate change. In Japan, EVs make up less than 5% of the auto market, according to the International Energy Agency. In the U.S., where Tesla dominates, EVs account for just under 10% of auto sales, although President Joe Biden is pushing for requiring at least 54% of new vehicles sold in the U.S. to be electric by 2030. In China, a third of vehicles sold are EVs. Tesla’s global vehicle

deliveries last year grew 40% from the previous year, to 1.31 million EVs. BYD sold more than 1.85 million electric cars, including plug-ins. Toyota, meanwhile, sold fewer than 25,000 EVs worldwide last year, although in the first eight months of this year, it sold 65,000, mostly outside Japan. Toyota is targeting sales of 1.5 million EVs a year by 2026 and 3.5 million by 2030. “We are looking toward an electrified future that we hope to build together with our customers,” Kato said. Catching up is a challenge but not impossible, said Joshua Cobb, senior automobiles analyst at BMI. “Over the short term, we see Chinese EVs from brands such as BYD, SAIC-GM-Wuling and Tesla-branded EVs will continue to gain market share as there is little competition at the moment,” he said. But, Cobb added, “One thing not to underestimate is the strong brand loyalty in Japan.” He said Japanese

consumers may hold off on EV purchases until more domestic models hit the market. Nissan, an early EV maker among the Japanese with its Leaf going on sale in 2010, is showcasing four EV concept cars. Among them is the Hyper Tourer minivan concept that Nissan says has advanced technologies like autonomous driving. It runs on high-energy-density solidstate batteries. Senior Vice President Alfonoso Albaisa said Nissan is focusing on virtual reality and other breakthroughs that allow vehicle designers to shorten model development time. “At Nissan, we have been racing forward with our dramatic digital shift just as other industries, like gaming,” Albaisa said. Manufacturers are also noting that EV technology is bringing changes for how a vehicle drives. Batteries and a motor for an EV generally take up less space than a gas combustion engine. That means EVs can

have a lower centre of gravity while offering more cabin space, making it a nifty powertrain for sportscars, vans, pickups and SUVs. In Nissan and elsewhere, a key issue for EVs is battery charge time and driving range. While all the world’s major automakers are working to shorten charge time and lengthen cruise time per charge, the U.S. startup Ample has come up with a different solution — battery swapping. Instead of charging the battery in the car, a module containing the battery is taken out and replaced by a fully charged battery at a drive-in facility built especially for the procedure. The swap, done by robots, takes just five minutes. The approach is already being used by Uber drivers in the San Francisco area. Ample’s battery-swapping arrives in Japan this winter through a partnership with Mitsubishi Fuso, a Daimler group truck company. The swapping is being demonstrated at Mitsubishi Fuso’s booth.

LOVE K-POP STAR MARK TUAN’S NEW EP? YOU CAN DISCUSS IT WITH HIS AI TWIN By MARIA SHERMAN AP Music Writer LOS ANGELES (AP) — Accessibility can be an artist’s greatest asset. Listeners want to feel close to the musicians they admire and support — and most would jump at the chance to communicate one-on-one. But celebrity schedules rarely allow for that kind of intimacy. So what’s the next best thing? For Mark Tuan, whose new EP “Fallin’” is out Friday, it was creating a digital avatar. The rapper-singer-model and former member of the K-pop boy band Got7 partnered with Soul Machines to create an autonomously automated “digital twin” called “Digital Mark.” In doing so, Tuan has become the first celebrity to attach their likeness to OpenAI’s GPT integration, artificial intelligence technology that allows fans to engage in one-on-one conversations with Tuan’s avatar. “It’s very different. It’s not really me, but it is me,” he says of Digital Mark. “It’s a cool thing, that fans get to interact with him, too.” Greg Cross, CEO of Soul Machines, views Digital Mark as the future of fan engagement. “While Digital Mark is the first

K-POP musician Mark Tuan. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/ Invision/AP, File) Digital Celebrity Twin of its kind, we’re only at the beginning of how autonomous animation will reshape how individuals across the globe interact with celebrities and brands,” he said in a statement. Tuan’s hope with Digital Mark is that as the technology advances, so too will fans’ relationships with his

AI character — and that they’ll get to communicate with him in languages beyond English. Getting Digital Mark to mirror the real Mark Tuan was an extensive process, involving several days of filming in a motion capture bodysuit. Tuan spent a full day demonstrating emotive facial expressions for Digital Mark to learn from, and then considerable time in his studio so “they can get my voice recognition,” he says. Right now, Digital Mark “just stands there ... but maybe in the future, they’re going to incorporate me walking around,” he says. The technology is in its early days — Tuan says Digital Mark has been spreading “false rumours” about a nonexistent tour — but he’s excited about how the avatar will evolve. Fans have already been using Digital Mark to “troll” Tuan, playfully bugging the AI Mark about things like tour dates and new music — “which is the relationship the fans have with me,” he says with a laugh. As for concerns over how this kind of technology could be used in the future, Tuan is cautiously optimistic. “I’ve seen a lot of movies where robots take over the world,” he jokes. “You never really know what’s going to happen, but I think it is really cool.”

His openness to technological advancement mirrors his experimental spirit as a musician. “Fallin’” follows his 2022 debut solo album, “The Other Side.” The sound is different: He’s detoured from R&B and hip-hop to pursue sunny pop-punk. That’s immediately evidenced on the cheery retro-pop of “Your World” and the synth-y, riff-led love song “Everyone Else Fades.” “I brought in a live band,” he says, focusing on creating songs he sensed would be “really fun to perform love,” with anthemic rock drums. “‘The Other Side’ showed a more, you know, emotional Mark, sad Mark,” he says. And while fans enjoyed it, he sensed they wanted an uplifting, empowering collection of songs from him. If his album allowed them to see into his sense of interiority — a kind of catharsis removed from his group idol days — “Fallin’” is a creative exercise. It’s Tuan having fun in the studio and with his fans. In that way, he hopes “Fallin” is something fans throw on in the morning to feel good about the day — and themselves. “I want to create something that’s easier for them to listen to,” he says. “Daily music,” as he describes it. And when they’re done? They can talk to Digital Mark about it.

BIDEN WANTS TO MOVE FAST ON AI SAFEGUARDS AND SIGNS AN EXECUTIVE ORDER TO ADDRESS HIS CONCERNS By JOSH BOAK AND MATT O’BRIEN Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Monday signed an ambitious executive order on artificial intelligence that seeks to balance the needs of cuttingedge technology companies with national security and consumer rights, creating an early set of guardrails that could be fortified by legislation and global agreements. Before signing the order, Biden said AI is driving change at “warp speed” and carries tremendous potential as well as perils. “AI is all around us,” Biden said. “To realise the promise of AI and avoid the risk, we need to govern this technology.” The order is an initial step that is meant to ensure that AI is trustworthy and helpful, rather than deceptive and destructive. The order — which will likely need to be augmented by congressional action — seeks to steer how AI is developed so that companies can profit without putting public safety in jeopardy. Using the Defense Production Act, the order requires leading AI developers to share safety test results and other information with the government. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is to create standards to ensure AI tools are safe and secure before public release. The Commerce Department is to issue guidance to label and watermark AI-generated content to help differentiate between authentic interactions and those generated by software. The extensive order touches on matters of privacy, civil rights, consumer protections, scientific research and worker rights.

PAGE 10, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

importer said Saudi Arabia’s non-resident Ambassador Bahamian he was unaware of guns pays courtesy call to Ministry of Tourism American man shipped through his service

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

NASSAU, The Bahamas – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper received His Excellency Faisal bin Falah Al-Harbi, Non- Resident Ambassador of Saudi Arabia in a Courtesy Call on Thursday, October 26, 2023. The meeting was held at the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation in Centre of Commerce, British Colonial Hilton. Also present were members of the ministry’s executive team, and other officials. Pictured from left: Tony Joudi, Ambassador of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the United Arab Emirates; Al-Harbi; Deputy Prime Minister Cooper; Basil McIntosh, Minister of State/Aviation; Senator Randy Rolle, global relations consultant MOTIA; Latia Duncombe, director general of Tourism; and Dr Kenneth Romer, director of Aviation and deputy director-general of Tourism. Photo: Kemuel Stubbs/BIS

A POLICE officer testified yesterday in the trial of a businessman who allegedly imported ten firearms and more than 100 rounds of ammunition through a courier company in June. The man, Rolando Thomas, 42, was charged with 14 firearm-related offences, including importation of firearms, possession of firearms with intent to supply, conspiracy to import firearms, conspiracy to import ammunition, and possession of ammunition with intent to supply. Magistrate Lennox Coleby presides over the case, and Bjorn Ferguson represents the defendant. Police reportedly executed a search warrant on Secure Import Services off Tonique Williams Darling Highway shortly before 3pm on June 20. Thomas and others were arrested after they were allegedly found with ten unlicenced firearms. During the raid, police recovered 92 rounds of 9mm ammunition and 12 rounds of .40 ammunition. Sergeant Sherman

testified yesterday that Carl Strachan, an employee of Secure Imports, received the package with the guns as a part of a shipment that came in on June 19. The officer could not recall if Mr Strachan had searched the box. Sgt Sherman agreed with Mr Ferguson that the defendant cooperated with police following his arrest. The attorney told the officer that his client told police during an interview that he was doing a favour for his friend, Ryan Neely, and agreed to import a package because he thought it had baby clothes for his daughter. Mr Ferguson told the officer his client never agreed to import firearms. In response, the officer told the court the defendant, when questioned about the imported weapons, said Ryan was an unregistered customer. During cross-examination from Prosecutor Sergeant Lincoln McKenzie, the officer said the package manifest had no information about Ryan Neely, baby items or clothes. The trial continues later this month.

TWO CHARGED OVER FRAUDULENT EXTENSIONS FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net AN immigration officer and a civilian were charged and granted bail yesterday after allegedly forging fraudulent approval and extension forms for foreign nationals. This comes a week after two immigration officers, Chief Immigration Officer Wyberg Brown and Immigration Officer Thorn Curry, were arraigned for an alleged bribery scheme to extend passports and visas. Magistrate Shaka Serville charged officer Jolando Adderley, 35, and Jeleah Turnquest, 38, with numerous fraud offences. Officer Adderley faced charges of possessing a forged document, uttering a forged document and fraud by false pretences. Ms Turnquest was charged with two counts of possession of a forged document. Both defendants faced a shared charge

of attempted fraud by false pretences. David Cash represented the accused. Between June and December 2022, Ms Turnquest was allegedly found with a forged Bahamas Immigration Department approval form and invoice dated October 3, 2022, bearing the name Ernie Abache Niar. During that timeframe, both defendants allegedly attempted to obtain a fake work permit approval letter in the name of Ernie Abache Niar. Officer Adderley allegedly attempted to use a forged Bahamas Department of Immigration extension form dated July 28 in the name of Hushandra Raymond Campbell, with which he was found on August 2. After pleading not guilty, the defendants were informed that their bail was set at $4,000 with one or two sureties each. Their trial begins on March 18, 2024.

Rising fears for future of farming as war impacts Israel’s heartland

THE TRIBUNE

ISRAEL Associated Press THE soldiers guarding Avi Chivivian’s organic vegetable farm in southern Israel must first scour every corner of his fields for militants before they give him the all clear: He has six hours to work. It’s potato planting season for the farms of southern Israel, a region near the Gaza border that the Agriculture Ministry calls the country’s “vegetable barn” because it supplies at least a third of Israel’s vegetables. But Chivivian — one of the few remaining farmers in the area since the brutal Oct. 7 crossborder attack by Hamas militants — no longer lives by the harvest cycle. He’s on the military’s timetable. “If we don’t plant potatoes now, there won’t be any in the spring,” said Chivivian, who lives in the small village of Yated. “If we put our hands up, we will have a food crisis in Israel.” The Israel-Hamas war has plunged Israel’s agricultural heartlands, located around the Gaza Strip and in the north near the Lebanese and Syrian borders, into crisis. Israeli airstrikes, ground operations and a siege have also upended all manner of life in Gaza. Near Gaza, the military has banned all farming within 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) of the border fence and tightly monitors farmers whose lands lie just outside the no-go zone. In the north, entire communities have been evacuated because of rocket fire from Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group. As foreign labourers flee and farming towns have emptied out, the country has begun importing more vegetables. The few remaining farmers fret for the

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 11

future of Israeli agriculture. Chivivian lost his entire harvest in the few days following Oct. 7. He was unable to tend to his 65 acres (25 hectares) as militants rampaged around his community. All of his crops — tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet potatoes — now lie dead in the fields and must be uprooted before he can till the soil anew and start over. The bulk of the country’s leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers come from the area, according to the Israel Farmers Association’s general-secretary, Uri Dorman. Meanwhile, farms in the north produce 40% of the country’s sub-tropical fruit and 70% of its eggs, the Agriculture Ministry said. Before the war, most of the produce consumed by Israelis was grown in Israel. The increasing reliance on imports threatens the local farms whose products used to stock supermarket shelves. Last week, a ship carrying tomatoes from Turkey docked in Haifa. Dorman predicted the Israeli agriculture industry could bounce back within two to three years. But he said rising imports could create fears and perceptions “that there are more shortages than there actually are.” “If people act on this fear and begin importing more produce, we will be witnessing the slow death of Israeli agriculture,” he said. For Chivivian, the farm he spent his whole adult life building is now his second priority. First is paying for the home in Jerusalem where his wife and six children have been staying since they evacuated Yated. His bank account is in overdraft, and most of the foreign workers he employed

IDO GILAD, 17, picks pomegranates while volunteering on a farm in Ashkelon, Israel, Friday, Oct. 27, 2023. The Israel-Hamas war has plunged Israel’s agricultural heartlands into crisis. Near Gaza, the military has banned all farming within 4 kilometers of the border fence and tightly monitors farmers whose lands lie just outside the no-go zone. Photo: Maya Alleruzzo/AP from Thailand and Rwanda have fled. “My house is empty, the whole kibbutz is empty. It looks like a tornado tore through the place,” Chivivian said. “The government hasn’t given us anything. We’re alone, trying with all our might to save the food system.” In an attempt to attract foreign workers back to evacuated areas, the Agriculture Ministry has said it will extend their work visas and give them bonuses of about $500 a month. It also plans to build greenhouses to make up for potential shortages, construct hundreds of bomb shelters near farms and support volunteer efforts to fill labour gaps. Before the war, roughly half of Israel’s agricultural workforce was composed of foreign and Palestinian

UN human rights official is alarmed by sprawling gang violence in Haiti

labour. Since the war erupted, Israel has barred Palestinian labourers from the West Bank from reaching their jobs. As Israel calls 360,000 reservists up for military service, posts from pickers to truck drivers have been left abandoned, the Agriculture Ministry says. Volunteer efforts enlisting thousands of people have sprung up across the country to fill the gaps. At the 25-acre (10-hectare) Dafna family orchard near the southern town of Ashkelon, volunteers brave frequent air-raid sirens as they pull ripe pomegranates from trees bursting with pink fruit. Their bounty tumbles into large troughs bound for market. Without their labour, the fruit would rot. “I’m not afraid to come here to help them,” said 21-year-old Ayelet Ben

Assayag, who volunteered at the farm on a recent day. “I think it’s really important that we will come here, even though it’s a war zone.” She said the volunteers were prepared to run toward small shelters or lie on the ground in the event of a siren. But volunteers can only help so much, said Liad Vaknin, spokesperson for Israel’s Dairy Council. With the loss of skilled foreign labour, farming tasks take longer. “The volunteers are temporarily saving these farms,” Vaknin said. “But at the end of the day, they are volunteers. They don’t have the same capabilities as the workers. We need to find a more permanent solution.” Volunteers have a harder time accessing the farms closest to the Gaza border, like Marcelo Wasser’s dairy,

because they need a military escort to enter the area. Wasser runs one of the 16 dairies dotting the border that account for roughly 10% of Israel’s milk. Wasser stayed behind in Kibbutz Nirim to tend to his cows, as his family and community members evacuated. After sheltering with his family for 12 hours in a safe room on Oct. 7, Wasser emerged to find five of his neighbours killed by militants and eight of his cows dead from rocket attacks. Wasser, who immigrated to Israel from Argentina 30 years ago, continues to head out every day to feed and milk the cows, tending to the injured and dodging rocket fire as he goes. “I’m scared for my life, not the cows’ lives,” he said. “I don’t know how much longer I can do this.”

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JIMMY CHERIZIER, better known as Barbecue, centre, the leader of the “G9 and Family” gang, leads a march against Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, September 19, 2023. Photo: Odelyn Joseph /AP PORT-AU-PRINCE said. “It will be necessary said. “People are dying, and Associated Press to implement rehabilitation Haiti is not getting any help and reintegration programs at all.” THE United Nations for the vast majority of Haitian Prime Minister expert on human rights them.” Ariel Henry requested the in Haiti said Tuesday that He also noted that gang immediate deployment of a he is alarmed by the rapid violence has spread to pre- foreign armed force a year spread of gang violence and viously peaceful areas in ago to battle gangs that the bleak future awaiting Haiti’s central and north- have grown more powerchildren in the embattled west regions and that more ful ever since the July 2021 country. than 500,000 children have assassination of President William O’Neill spoke at no access to education Jovenel Moïse. the end of a weeklong visit given the spike in violence. In recent months, Kenya to Haiti, his second one O’Neill said gangs also agreed to lead a multithis year amid a spike in continue to sexually abuse national armed force to violence that has displaced women and girls who have Haiti, although deployment more than 200,000 people. no access to health care. has been delayed by legal “Murders, injuries and “The state must assume challenges. kidnappings are the daily its responsibilities not only “The imminent deploylot of the population,” he to prevent human rights ment of this mission, under said. “An entire generation violations and abuses, but strict conditions of respect is seemingly being sacrificed also to protect its popula- and protection of human by violence, and the future tion, especially the most rights, is necessary to alleof a country is threatened vulnerable,” he said. viate the suffering of the by the dramatic situation Haiti’s National Police, population,” O’Neill said. faced by its youth.” which is understaffed and In addition to violence, More than 1,230 killings under-resourced, has strug- Haiti also is struggling with and 701 kidnappings were gled in its fight against deepening hunger amid reported across Haiti from gangs, with only some 4,000 skyrocketing inflation. July 1 to Sept. 30, more officers on duty at a time in Nearly half of the country’s than double the figure the country of 11.7 million population is starving, and reported during the same people. experts expect those numperiod last year, according Lack of security is so bers to rise. to the UN widespread, that Haitians “I hope that one day, An estimated 200 gangs stay mostly indoors unless we will be able to see the operate in Haiti, with the they need to buy basic light in this country,” said largest groups controlling goods, said Garry Lochar, Jean-Marc Jean Pierre who up to 80% of the capital of 29, who works at a bus has been forced to move Port-au-Prince. terminal. multiple times because of “A major challenge is the “It’s been a year since gang violence. “If everyone fact that many gang mem- people have been saying could leave this country, we bers are children,” O’Neill that troops are coming,” he would have left already.”

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SPORTS PAGE 12

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2023

TRENT DEVEAUX

Ken Mullings ends up with DNF in decathlon By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

fter getting off to a scorching start on day one of the 19th Pan American Games, national record holder Ken Mullings dropped out of contention for a medal and eventually the rest of the 10-event competition on the final day yesterday in Santiago, Chile. His downfall came in the third event of the day in the men’s pole vault where he failed to clear any height, dropping him from fourth place to ninth place, at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos. He didn’t start the javelin as the final two events took place in the evening session and subsequently was not allowed to close out the competition in the gruelling 1,500 metres, which brought the curtain down on the showdown between the versatile athletes in track and field. All of his previous points didn’t matter as Mullings ended up with a DNF (did not finish) logged beside his name on the scoresheet. Coming into the final day of competition in fourth place after completing the first five events on Monday, Mullings won his heat of the men’s 110m hurdles in 14.27 seconds for the fastest time combined. The 26-year-old Mullings remained in contention in the men’s discus in fourth place with a heave of 136feet, 7 1/4-inches or 41.64 metres. But the medal slipped out of his grasp after he couldn’t post a mark in the pole vault to end the morning session. Mullings completed the first day in fourth place with 4,035 points after the first five of 10 events

National record holder ‘did not finish’

(6.90m), third as well in the shot put with a heave of 47-9 ½ (14.57m), third also in the high jump with

6-7 ¼ (2.01m) and second in his heat of the 400m in 50.67. Efforts to contact Mullings for comments

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

were unsuccessful. Also yesterday, Joshua Higgins

WHILE he’s taking the time to recuperate from an elbow injury that sidelined him this year, outfielder Trent Deveaux said he’s glad to be taking on another important role as a “father to a newborn son” as he waits for his return to minor league baseball. Deveaux, 23, played with the Inland Empire 66ers before he was released on June 7, 2022. He returned home and spent the past year helping out at various baseball leagues until the arrival of his son - Trent Deveaux II on September 9 at Doctors Hospital - with his girlfriend Helena Ferguson from Acklins. “It’s something different,” said Deveaux of fatherhood. “I’m enjoying it because I see so much joy in my son when I’m around him.” If all goes well, Deveaux hopes that he will be afforded another opportunity to continue his dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player. He was appreciative of the opportunity he got from the Los Angeles Angels organisation. “I was doing quite well until I got the injury,” said Deveaux of playing with their affiliate Inland Empire 66ers. “So right now, I’m working out getting ready to return to the league. I have some plans in motion, but I don’t want to say anything about it until the deal is completed. “Every time I would straighten up my arm, it would give me a lot of pain, so I was taking those painkillers and playing through it. You’re not going to be

SEE PAGE 16

SEE PAGE 13

KEN MULLINGS, of The Bahamas, competes in a men’s decathlon 110-metre hurdles heat at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. SEE MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE 16 (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara) contested with a victory in the heats of the men’s 100m in 10.89, third in the long jump with 22-7¾

TRENT DEVEAUX HOPES TO GET BACK TO MINOR LEAGUE

BHTA golf tournament resumes at Royal Blue THE Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) “resumed play” as the organisation brought back its immensely popular Annual “Spooktacular Golf Tournament” at the behest of players and corporate sponsors - after a three-year hiatus. This year’s tournament, held on Sunday, October 29 at The Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar, was met with excitement and enthusiasm by throngs of golfers who enjoyed a beautiful day of play amidst a bevy of animated, interactive, aptly themed corporate “fun stations” that were interspersed along the green. The tournament has become a favourite of the golfing community, due to the enthusiastic support of corporate sponsors,

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many of whom are directly or indirectly linked to the tourism industry. These loyal supporters donate an array of valuable prizes, provide a wealth of gift bag giveaways and corporate swag bag items, in addition to their donation of funds and fun to ensure golfers have an all-inclusive day of competitive golf and entertainment. The coveted tournament victory went to repeat winners Neale Jones and Tony Aranha who walked away with the first place trophy and top prize staycations at Bah Mar’s Rosewood and SLS properties. Second place was awarded to Javier Bowe and Lynford Miller and third place went to two junior golfers, Maddison Carroll and Anissa Robinson, who clinched their top tier title amidst a cadre of seasoned golfers. The two young ladies were pleased to be invited to play on Restaurant Bahamas’ Team - they represented the long-term corporate supporter with grace and determination. All top team players won prizes such as luxurious hotel stays at

SHOWN, from left to right, are first place winner Tony Aranha, Robert “Sandy” Sands, President of The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) and First Place Winner Neale Jones. Goldwynn Resorts & Residences, Baha Mar’s Grand Hyatt and the Royal Towers at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island. Newcomer Commonwealth Brewery Ltd. (CBL) came on board with enthusiasm as a corporate sponsor and event partner. CBL paired with BHTA to take the tourney’s prize ceremony to newly elevated levels of fun and anticipation. Golfers gathered under the CBL prize party tent surrounded by beverage stations conveniently located on the green apron of The Royal Blue

Clubhouse. Effervescent CBL executives and team members served thirsty golfers with a variety of CBL distributed beer, wine and bubbly brands as the players eagerly awaited the results of the tally. Major sponsors of this year’s tournament also included Baha Mar, Baha Mar Foundation, Atlantis, Margaritaville Beach Resort and it’s soon-to-beopen neighbour, The British Colonial, The Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB), Royal Fidelity Bank and Trust, John Watling’s Distillery,

The Paradise Island Tourism Development Association (PITDA), The Bahamas Out Islands Promotion Board (BOIPB), Restaurants Bahamas, J.S. Johnson and The d’Albenas Agency. Over half a dozen corporate sponsors set up “fun stations” along the course where they provided golfers with the opportunity to network, interact, play games and win prizes. Golfers were asked to vote for their top three best fun stations. Taking first place was Margaritaville Beach Resort, who served sliders and rum infused cake to hungry golfers, who were invited to bike ‘n’ blend their own margarita before they took aim on the beautiful 16th Hole. NPIPB won second place in the Golfers Choice award, with its brightly coloured, balloon-strewn Haunted House featuring unique spooky cocktails, Halloween music and giveaways, while Royal Fidelity took third spot as they enticed players off their tee with their exquisitely decorated cocktail lounge, their variety of

libations served by aptly attired “Day of the Dead” costumed servers and staff. The tourney has become known for its quantity and quality of prizes, the fun and frolic as well as the competitive level of play. Prize donors included Atlantis Paradise Island, Royal Blue Golf Club, Rosewood, SLS, Grand Hyatt, Goldwynn Resorts and Residences, Abaco Beach Resort, Comfort Suites, British Colonial, Embrace Resort, Pelican Bay, Graycliff Hotel, Makers Air, Lyford Cay Club, Rentokil, Green Systems Ltd., Baha Bay, John Watlings, Commonwealth Brewery, and Bahamas Wholesale Agencies (BWA). Robert “Sandy” Sands, president of the BHTA, thanked players, corporate sponsors, prize donators and the Royal Blue Golf Club team for helping to make the association’s 22nd annual Spooktacular event a resounding success. The proceeds of the event help power the organisations integral workforce development efforts, a key component of the BHTA’s mandate.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 13

PORT VALE ADVANCES TO ENGLISH LEAGUE CUP QUARTERS By JAMES ROBSON AP Soccer Writer

DEDICATION DAY: Glen Ritchie, Floridell Adderley, Geno Nairn, Glenn Archer, Monsignor Alfred Culmer, Sonja Knowles, Mike Rolle, Marici Thompson and Sean McWeeney.

Girls’ softball field of dreams dedicated at SAC in memory of the late Charlotte Pyfrom By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net IN the midst of their quest for another successful Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools campaign, the Big Red Machine kept the memory of deceased former head of department Charlotte Pyfrom alive with the dedication of its girls’ softball Field of Dreams at St Augustine’s College. The blessing and unveiling of the plaque in honour of Pyfrom took place yesterday morning. The ceremony was conducted by Monsignor Alfred Culmer, who filled in for Catholic Archbishop Patrick Pinder. Among the dignitaries on hand were Sean McSweeney, Mike Rolle, chairman of the Unca Lou Charity Foundation, Glen Ritchie of Family Guardian, who represented Pyfrom’s family and minor league baseball player Trent Deveaux. After Tristan Roberts, president of the Student Council, gave a spirited welcome address to the visiting dignitaries, the faculty and staff, students and special guests, who included Floridell Adderley - the wife of the late principal Deacon Leviticus ‘Unca Lou’ Adderley - and remarks were made by Ritchie and Rolle, McSweeney unveiled the plaque to the softball field that was read by principal Marici Thompson. Thompson, who is also the current principal, said this was just the completion of phase one of the field of dreams project. Nonetheless, she honoured those persons who made it possible to realise the initial dream yesterday for a lady who was worthy of praise and recognition. “In honour and recognition of Charlotte Pyfrom, 1951-2022, Mrs Pyfrom was a faithful and dedicated physical education teacher at St Augustine’s College for 17 years. The family of Mrs Pyfrom and the family of Family Guardian made a generous contribution towards the completion of the ladies’ softball field.” Rolle, who worked on a committee that included Freddie Albury, Geno Nairn, Van Diah and Glen Archer, said they were inspired by the late Unca Lou Adderley, who started an indelible school pride for all who attended SAC. “Every SAC student who was graced by the presence of this giant of a man was left with something even greater than pride,” Rolle said. “You were left with love. He was so beloved by his students, he became known as Unca Lou. He was a father figure, a mentor, a teacher, a coach and a confidante.” Having been taught by Unca Lou in his math class, Rolle said he remembered the vision that he had for a multi-sport complex at the school, which would consist of a running track facility, softball fields and a multi-purpose gymnasium.

GENO Nairn throws out a pitch.

Photos: Fabian Whymns

MIKE Rolle making his remarks. “His passing put that dream on hold,” Rolle said. “However, the dream was kept alive by Eugene Nairn, Pat Walkes and others who have encouraged me and together we formed the Unca Lou Charity and undertook to see the dream begin to materialise.” After hosting a successful golf tournament last year, Rolle said they began the process for the creation of the ladies’ softball field. He said a men’s baseball field is next followed by a first-class track and field facility. Representing Family Guardian and the family of the late Pyfrom, Ritchie, another graduate of SAC, said the event marks an occasion to recognise the contribution of a wonderful person, an educator and a friend. “Charlotte spent 17 happy years here at St Augustine’s College where she taught physical education and nurtured young athletes,” Ritchie recalled. “She was unweaving in her dedication to her students and this fine institution, ensuring that their bodies were strengthened, along with their minds. “Charlotte not only taught the rudiments of each sport, she instilled discipline, she fostered camaraderie, she pushed her students to excel and she immiserated with them when they fell short of the mark. “She encouraged everyone she encountered to do their best, no matter the task at hand.”

SAC principal Marici Thompson making her remarks.

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — While Premier League giants Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal do not yet know if they will advance to the quarterfinals of the English League Cup, third-division Port Vale has already secured its place in the next round. The Midlands-based team has never played higher than the second tier of English soccer and has never won one of its major trophies. But it could be rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest teams in the land in the last eight of the cup after a 1-0 win against Mansfield yesterday. Alfie Devine’s goal five minutes into the second half at One Call Stadium ended fourthdivision Mansfield’s own hopes of a potential quarterfinals matchup against top-flight opposition. Port Vale will not be the only team from outside the Premier League in the next round after Middlesbrough came back to beat thirddivision Exeter 3-2. Middlesbrough won the League Cup in 2004 and is hoping to secure promotion to the Premier League this season under manager Michael Carrick, who lifted every major club prize during a storied playing career at Manchester United. But Port Vale is turning out to be the story of the competition so far as the lowest-ranked team remaining and having advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in its history. Its fans will likely be hoping to be drawn against the likes of United or Liverpool if those teams advance today. Defending champion United hosts Newcastle at Old Trafford, with manager Erik ten Hag coming under increasing pressure to turn his team’s form around after seven defeats in all competitions this season. Liverpool travels to Bournemouth, while West Ham hosts Arsenal. With Chelsea, Everton, Burnley and Fulham also still vying to advance, there is every chance Port Vale could face top-flight opposition in the next round.

TRENT DEVEAUX FROM PAGE 12

FLORIDELL Adderley and Glen Ritchie unveiling the plaque.

GLEN Ritchie delivers a pitch. As a result of those attributes, Ritchie said Family Guardian and the Pyfrom family combined their resources to assist in the completion of the ladies’ softball field that was dedicated in her honour. Pyfrom, according to Ritchie, played her role as

a member of the board for 25 years. “The dedication of this field in her honour is a tangible representation of the respect and adoration we all feel for her,” he pointed out. “To the students gathered here, who will use this facility, none of you would have met or been taught

by Mrs Pyfrom, but it is my hope that her spirit of sporting excellence will carry on in you.” As for those personally acquainted with her either as a colleague, a teacher or a friend, Ritchie said he hopes that her memory will live on in their hearts and minds.

healthy all the time, so I just tried to bear with it.” Although he’s still staying in shape, waiting for the opening of spring training so that he can get back in the league, Deveaux said he was glad when he got the opportunity to assist the athletic department at St Augustine’s College in getting the ladies’ softball field completed. “When I was at SAC, we didn’t have this kind of facility,” said Deveaux, who actually spent one year there in grade seven before he did home schooling. “A lot of people don’t know it, but I was benched when I played on the Big Red Machine junior boys’ team.” During his tenure at SAC, Deveaux said he remembered when they played on the senior boys’ softball field with the pool as the home run turf. So, to see where SAC has emerged to produce the beginning of their field of dreams, brings a “lot of smiles” to his face. Deveaux, however, said he is even more thrilled now that he is a father to his newly born son. As a top 20 international prospect, Deveaux signed with Los Angeles on July 2, 2017. He moved around the organisation playing with the AZL Angeles, Orem Owlz and ACL Angels before he completed his stint with the Inland Empire 66ers.

PAGE 14, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

ZVEREV AND HURKACZ ADVANCE AT PARIS MASTERS

76ers trade disgruntled guard James Harden to Clippers, AP source says By DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer CAMDEN, N.J. (AP) — James Harden publicly called his boss a liar and swore he would never again play for the Philadelphia 76ers. So he won’t — the 10-time All-Star with a history of trade demands only slightly shorter than his signature beard is on the move to this fifth NBA team, chasing his first championship this time in his native California. Harden joins Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook to shape a core group of veterans trying to win the Los Angeles Clippers their first NBA championship in franchise history. The 76ers are simply trying to move on from the Harden Headache and continue their own long shot bid at a title behind NBA MVP Joel Embiid and star-in-waiting Tyrese Maxey. The final haul was yet to be settled yesterday — coach Nick Nurse and Maxey danced around the trade following practice — but the key parts of the trade were this: the 76ers sent Harden, P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrušev to Los Angeles for Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, Nic Batum, K.J. Martin, a 2028 unprotected firstround draft pick, two second-round picks, a 2029 draft-pick swap and an additional first-rounder from a third team, a person familiar with the trade told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity yesterday because the final details of the trade are not yet official. Maxey texted the 34-year-old Harden when news of the deal broke

overnight — Nurse said he slept through the trade call — and thanked his former teammate for his contributions in 79 total regular-season games with the 76ers. “I told him I loved him, told him I appreciated him,” Maxey said. “One thing he really installed in me was confidence. I’ve always been a confident person. He made me be even more confident than I already was. All I can do is appreciate him for that.” Maxey turns 23 on Saturday and has improved numbers in each of his first three seasons — 8.5 points to 17.5 to 20.3 to 30.3 points and his first Eastern Conference Player of the Week award in a small sample this season. That improvement has the 76ers finally, firmly believing he can be the superstar to pair with Embiid and remain contenders. Not Ben Simmons. Not Harden. “Everything’s been going well, the flow’s been well, the organisation’s been great, the team believes, the coach believes in himself,” Maxey said. “Everything’s been great.” Still, the longer the Harden melodrama lingered in Philly, the greater chance the situation would eventually implode. Harden — now traded by Houston, Brooklyn and the 76ers in each of the past three seasons — had long wanted to play in Philadelphia. Harden and team president Daryl Morey, who was not available for comment, were first allies when they were in Houston. Harden was a league MVP and had scoring titles for the Rockets. But when the Rockets went into a rebuild, Harden issued his first ultimatum and forced his way to Brooklyn in 2021. He

PHILADELPHIA 76ers’ James Harden looks on during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola) joined Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in a “Big Three” that was never very big. The trio was socked by injuries and other controversies and played only 18 games together before Harden wanted out. So it was off to Philly at the 2022 trade deadline in a deal for Simmons. He was reunited with Morey and seemed comfortable in his role as a playmaker while the offence ran through Embiid. Harden even declined his $47.4 million option in June 2022, saying he wanted to give the 76ers financial flexibility to improve their roster and compete for a championship. He signed a below-market deal worth slightly more than $68 million, paying him about $33 million last season with a $35.6 million player option for this one. Harden led the NBA in assists last season with 10.7 per game, but it was his 22 total points in Games 6 and 7 losses that doomed the Sixers when they lost in the second round to Boston. Part of Harden’s complaint with the Sixers stemmed from the belief he should have earned a longterm contract. When he didn’t, Harden was determined to sever ties with the Sixers, and called Morey a liar at an August promotional event in China. “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organisation that he’s a part of,” Harden said at the event.

“Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organisation that he’s a part of.” While Eastern Conference powerhouses Boston and Milwaukee made bold pickups in the summer, the 76ers instead learned that Harden desired a trade to the Clippers. He was a late arrival to training camp and continued to practice with the 76ers until he was told to stay home for the team’s first two road games in the wake of the trade demand. The lone time he spoke at practice, Harden said that his fractured relationship with Morey could not be repaired — comparing it to a broken marriage. Nurse insisted Harden would not play until he met certain conditioning requirements. Harden wore street clothes and watched Sunday’s home opener from the bench. Harden was scheduled to practice with the 76ers yesterday. Instead, Harden is on his way to California. The 76ers are off until Thursday’s home game against Toronto. The Clippers were set to play last night against Orlando. There was no immediate word when all the traded players would be available to their new teams. “I’m not sitting here thinking it’s a big relief,” Nurse said. “These guys are focused. Other than spending a few minutes a

day answering questions about it, or having a few meetings maybe that I wouldn’t have about it, it really wasn’t that cumbersome or bothersome of taxing for me.” Harden and Westbrook joined Bob McAdoo as the only league MVPs traded four times in their careers. Harden and Westbrook will play together for a third time. This may be the Clippers’ last chance to win a title with this group of players. Both Leonard and George are eligible for extensions and the Clippers will have to decide whether it’s worth keeping the injury-prone duo together, along with their other aging stars. The 76ers do get draft picks down the road, but the short-term win — besides shearing themselves of “The Beard” — is a glut of salary cap space next season. While the Sixers failed to get prized guard Terance Mann in the deal, Batum, Covington (making his second stint with the 76ers), Martin and Morris all have expiring contracts at the end of the season. That leaves just Embiid, Paul Reed and Jaden Springer as the only players on the books for 2024-2025. For now, the Sixers are expected use some of the cap space to extend Maxey next summer. “This kid is really good and this is a tremendous opportunity,” Nurse said.

PARIS (AP) — Alexander Zverev and Hubert Hurkacz stayed in contention for the three remaining spots at the ATP Finals by advancing to the second round of the Paris Masters yesterday. The 10th-seeded Zverev rallied past qualifier Marton Fucsovics 4-6, 7-5, 6-4, while Hurkacz overcame Sebastian Korda 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3. “It was definitely a rollercoaster,” the 11th-seeded Hurkacz said on court. “I tried to reset, I tried to bring all my energy into the third set. I knew how important is this match for me, and I just gave it absolutely all I had out there.” Before the Paris Masters, Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner and Andrey Rublev had already qualified for the ATP Finals, the season-ending tournament for the top eight players on tour that will be played in Turin November 12-19. Hurkacz jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the opening set. The Shanghai Masters champion then hit an overhead shot to break Korda in the seventh game of the second set but failed to serve out the match at 5-4. Korda saved three break points at 5-5 to force a tiebreaker. An emotional Hurkacz threw his racket to the ground after missing those opportunities, and then squandered a match point at 6-5 in the tiebreaker with a forehand that sailed long. Korda won the second set after another forehand error from Hurkacz. In the decisive set, Korda netted a backhand to give Hurkacz a 5-3 lead. Hurkacz converted his second match point with an ace, finishing the match with 36 winners to 30 for Korda. Zverev, the 2020 runnerup at the Paris tournament, double-faulted to drop the opening set. But the German hit a smash winner to break for a 6-5 lead in the second set and leveled the match when Fucsovics sent a forehand into the net. Zverev then won the last three games, clinching the victory with a service winner.

Pakistan eliminates Bangladesh from semifinal contention at the World Cup KOLKATA, India (AP) — Shaheen Afridi’s record-breaking haul of 3-23 helped Pakistan end its four-match losing streak at the Cricket World Cup and eliminate Bangladesh from semifinal contention with a seven-wicket win yesterday. Another woeful batting display by Bangladesh saw it bowled out for 204 as Afridi became the fastest bowler in ODI history to grab 100 wickets, doing it in his 51st game. The left-arm Pakistan pacer surpassed Australian pacer Mitchell Starc, who achieved the feat in 52 games. Fit-again Fakhar Zaman, one of the three changes Pakistan made, made a triumphant return from his knee injury and made 81 off 74 as Pakistan cruised to 205-3 in 32.3 overs. “Credit to the boys, the way they played in all three departments,” Pakistan captain Babar Azam said. “We know how well Fakhar plays when he’s going. Good to see him do it. We are trying to win our remaining matches and see where we stand. “This win hopefully gives confidence in the coming matches.” Zaman and Abdullah Shafique (68) combined in a 128-run opening wicket stand before Shafique fell

lbw to offspinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz (3-60). Babar’s below-par World Cup continued when he holed out at long-on after scoring 9 and Zaman missed out on his century while going for another big shot against Miraz. Babar has scored just two half centuries in seven games that has seen Pakistan got beaten against South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia and India in the last four matches. Zaman had to sit out the last five games due to a knee injury, but dominated Bangladesh’s timid spin and pace with his powerful hitting as he smashed seven sixes and three boundaries, with one of his sixes measured at 95 meters. Pakistan’s third win in seven games lifted it to No. 5 in the points table. However, Pakistan not only needs to win the remaining two league games against New Zealand and England, but its hopes of finishing in the top four still depends on favourable results in other games. A sixth successive loss left Bangladesh just ahead of defending champion England at the bottom of standings on net run-rate with only two points, which also puts its qualification for 2025 Champions Trophy in danger.

PAKISTAN’S SHAHEEN AFRIDI, right, celebrates the wicket of Bangladesh’s Najmul Hossain Shanto with teammates during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup match between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Kolkata, India, yesterday. (AP Photo/Bikas Das) The top seven teams at the World Cup plus host Pakistan will qualify for the eight-team event. “We are trying to force things but it isn’t working,” Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan said. “At this moment, we have to perform together, which is not happening. We

are looking for the answers but aren’t getting it.” Bangladesh won its opening game against Afghanistan but then fell to heavy defeats against England, New Zealand, India, South Africa and qualifier the Netherlands. Shakib’s struggling form with both bat and ball saw

the Bangladesh skipper even flying back home to spend time with his mentor, but he conceded he was low on confidence in the tournament. “We have to think about my batting order,” he said. “I was batting early, didn’t score runs. My confidence was low, too. At this stage,

changing too many things seems difficult.” Afridi surpassed Starc when he pinned Tanzid Hasan leg before wicket off his fifth delivery after Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and elected to bat. Usama Mir then plucked a superb low catch of Najmul Hasan Shanto in Afridi’s next over at mid-wicket and Muhfiqur Rahim was beaten by Haris Rauf’s length ball and was caught behind as Bangladesh slumped to 3-23 inside the batting powerplay. Top-scorer Mahmudullah (56) and Litton Das (45) revived Bangladesh with a 79-run stand before Pakistan’s pacers rattled the opposition with reverse swing in the latter half of the innings. Mahmudullah was undone by Afridi’s brilliant delivery as the righthander was clean bowled and Mohammad Wasim mopped up the tail by claiming three wickets off his seven balls as Bangladesh innings folded meekly in 45.1 overs. “Shaheen started well with the ball,” Babar said. “After 15-20 overs, they built a partnership, but our main bowlers struck. Main thing was our bowlers hit good lengths and took wickets.”

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 15

RANDLE, BRUNSON SCORE 19 AS KNICKS BEAT CAVS 109-91 By BRIAN DULIK Associated Press

HALL OF FAMERS — Pictured seated from left to right are John Johnson, Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson, Fernley Palmer and Montez Williams of the Ministry of Sports. Standing in back from left are Oria Wood-Knowles, Lawrence ‘Larry’ Davis, James ‘Sam’ Brown, Minister Mario Bowleg, Anton Sealey, Craig Flowers, Kelsie JohnsonSills, director of sports and consultant Harrison Thompson. Photo: Andrew Laroda

12 to be inducted into Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s Class of 23 National Hall of Fame By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net SATURDAY will be a special day for 12 more distinguished Bahamian sporting personalities. They will be inducted into the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s Class of 23 National Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place on the lawn of the ministry’s headquarters starting at 6:30pm. During the ceremony, the ministry will also select its outstanding athletes, teams and coaches for their achievements during the past year. The event is being staged under the theme: “United in sports - A Golden Jubilee.” Being inducted are Lawrence ‘Larry’ Davis (basketball), Anton Sealey (soccer), Allan Murray (swimming), John Johnson (basketball), Craig Flowers (golf), Peter Pratt (track and field), Mark Knowles (tennis), Irvin Taylor (cricket), Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson (volleyball), Yvonne Lockhart (softball), Fernley Palmer (boxing) and James ‘Sam’ Brown (cycling).

During a press conference on Monday at the Ministry of Sports, more than half of the honourees were introduced to the public. Those in attendance expressed their delight in receiving the gesture. Issacs-Dotson, who played a number of sporting disciplines but really excelled in volleyball as a setter and softball as an infielder, called it a “dream come true” for her. “To receive this award and to be recognised nationally is overwhelming,” said Isaacs-Dotson, who now serves as the first female president of the Bahamas Softball Federation. “It’s also humbling as well to be recognised with the persons you are with as Hall of Famers.” Looking at the class, Isaacs-Dotson said it’s one filled with a lot of people who deserve the recognition because of what they accomplished during their era, so she’s enthused and excited to be a part of the class. For her, the highlight would be when she was a member of the women’s national volleyball team that lost the Caribbean

Volleyball Championship title to Barbados when it was first played here and the following year they went to Barbados and avenged the defeat by winning the title. Flowers, a businessman who served as a long-time executive and player of the Bahamas Golf Federation, commended Minister Mario Bowleg and his team at the ministry for the initiative to stage a month of celebrations as a part of the country’s 50th Jubilee. “Whatever they give you, you have to accept it because it gives you the opportunity to be recognised and brought to the forefront, those of us who would have made our contribution to sports,” Flowers pointed out. As for himself, Flowers said he doesn’t do what he does to be recognised. “I do have a profound respect for those persons who made the choice in selecting me,” he said. “The things I’ve done are not to be given back. For whatever reason people think that is so, but that is where I beg to differ. I did nothing to receive anything in return. “But in light of the fact that we are being

recognised, I’m honoured and I am pleased that the ministry is recognising me and I would be the first to be on the water tower and tell them how pleased I am to receive the recognition.” Davis, who served as a long-time executive of the Bahamas Olympic Committee while making his contribution as an executive and referee in the Bahamas Basketball Federation, said he’s also honoured to be recognised. “To be able to get an award along with the people who are being honoured, I feel it’s a great thing,” Davis stated. “It is an honour but, on the other hand, I am very humbled to receive the recognition. “I’ve made my contribution but what I did, I did it for the love of sports. I never really went out there to do anything to achieve anything in return. I just wanted to do my part to help to make the Bahamas the number one sporting nation in the world. I think I’ve done that.” Over the years, Sealey would have served as a soccer player, coach and executive in the Bahamas Football Association. The

immediate past president of the BFA said he’s now elated to receive the highest sporting honour in the country, which is to be inducted into the National Hall of Fame. “This culminates a long career for me in sports and so it’s humbling and indeed I am honoured to be a part of the Class of 2023,” Sealey pointed out. “I am just thrilled to be considered in this class of honourees. “I think it’s an exceptional class, to be honest with you. I’m happy to be going in with this class that includes Craig Flowers, a noted golfer, Larry Davis from the Olympic movement and Fernley Palmer, my goodness. It’s a very good and impressive class and I’m very proud to be a part of it.” And John Johnson started playing organised basketball at the age of 18 out of Mason’s Addition in 1964. He remembered playing against teams from the east to the west and from the north to the south. “I’m elated. I’m happy that they are finally honouring me. It’s better late than never,” Johnson told The Tribune.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Julius Randle had 19 points and 10 rebounds, Jalen Brunson scored 19 points and the New York Knicks did not trail in the final three quarters of a 109-91 victory over the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers last night. Immanuel Quickley added 18 points off the bench and RJ Barrett had 16 as the Knicks won the first half of a home-andhome series. It was the teams’ first meeting since New York eliminated Cleveland in five games in the first round of the 2023 playoffs. New York native Donovan Mitchell scored 26 points in 29 minutes, and Isaac Okoro and Georges Niang had 11 points apiece for the Cavaliers, who have lost three straight and are 0-3 at home. Cleveland is 2-8 against the Knicks since the start of last season. Mitchell, who is averaging team highs of 32.0 points and 4.7 assists, returned to the lineup after sitting out a 125-113 loss to the Pacers with a sore right hamstring Saturday. The four-time All-Star was hurt in the fourth quarter of a 108-105 home loss to Oklahoma City one night earlier. The injury-plagued Cavaliers were without point guard Darius Garland (left hamstring strain) for the third straight game and have not had centre Jarrett Allen (left ankle bone bruise) in uniform this season. Top reserve Caris LeVert also did not play after hurting his left hamstring in Saturday’s game, nor did backup point guard Ty Jerome (right ankle sprain). Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff said he hoped that Allen “will be back soon.” Isaiah Hartenstein had 13 points and seven rebounds, and fellow centre Mitchell Robinson added eight points and seven boards for New York. Cavaliers undrafted rookie Craig Porter scored 10 points and Evan Mobley collected six points, 12 rebounds, five assists and two blocks. UP NEXT The teams complete their back-to-back set tonight inside Madison Square Garden.

SEMIEN’S 5 RBIS, SEAGER’S HOME RUN LEAD RANGERS OVER DIAMONDBACKS 11-7 FOR 3-1 WORLD SERIES LEAD By RONALD BLUM AP Baseball Writer PHOENIX (AP) — Marcus Semien’s two-run triple and three-run homer powered Texas to a 10-run lead by the third inning, Corey Seager hit another long home run and the Rangers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 11-7 last night to move ahead three games to one in the World Series. Rangers batters whipped through Diamondbacks pitching like a desert storm, taking a 10-0 lead and becoming the first team in Series history with consecutive five-run innings. Seager’s third two-run homer of the Series capped the second, Semien’s drive punctuated the third and Jonah Heim added an eighth-inning shot. Texas improved to a record 10-0 on the road this postseason and moved within one win of the first title in the 63-season history of a franchise that started as the expansion Washington Senators in 1961. Nathan Eovaldi tries to close out the third all-wild

card Series tonight against Zac Gallen in a rematch of Game 1 starters. Forty-two of 49 previous teams to take 3-1 leads have gone on to win the World Series. The most recent club to overcome a 3-1 deficit was the Chicago Cubs against Cleveland in 2016. Texas scored its first 10 runs with two outs, battering an Arizona staff that needed four pitchers to get its first eight outs. Miguel Castro’s wild pitch brought home the first run, and an error by Gold Glove first baseman Christian Walker — the first by either team in the Series — led to five unearned runs in the third. Seager and Semien, All-Star middle infielders signed as free agents for $500 million combined before the 2022 season, have six RBIs each in the Series. Seager, the first shortstop with three Series homers, has four homers in his last five games dating to the AL Championship Series. After leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to the 2020 title, he could join

TEXAS Rangers’ Marcus Semien, right, celebrates his three-run home run with Jonah Heim during the third inning in Game 4 of the baseball World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks last night in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) Sandy Koufax, Bob Gibson and Reggie Jackson as the only two-time World Series MVPs. Travis Jankowski, replacing injured slugger Adolis García in right field, singled in the second and hit a tworun double in the third in his first Series at-bats.

García, the AL Championship Series MVP, spoke at the Rangers’ pregame meeting. “We’re trying to go out there and win this for him,” Seager said. “It really fired the guys up.” Andrew Heaney, a 32-year-old lefty with his

fifth big league team, got the win by allowing four hits in five innings. Six relievers followed, with closer José Leclerc getting the final out. Lourdes Gurriel Jr hit a sacrifice fly in the fourth for Arizona and a three-run homer in the eighth against Chris Stratton. Tommy Pham had a sacrifice fly in the eighth, and Gabriel Moreno delivered a tworun single in the ninth. There was a festive mood at Chase Field, where the roof was open for the second straight night. Some fans arrived in Halloween costumes, but many started booing in the second inning. With both teams short on starting pitching, they each planned to string together bullpen games in what Arizona manager Torey Lovullo termed a “chess match” he looked forward to. For the Diamondbacks, it was a gambit that failed. Josh Jung doubled off opener Joe Mantiply leading off the second and in came Castro, who gave up García’s game-winning homer in the 11th inning of the opener.

Jung advanced on a groundout and put Texas ahead when Castro bounced a changeup off the plate for a wild pitch. Semien hooked a slider that landed about 18 inches fair and bounced into the left-field corner for a tworun triple and a 3-0 lead. Castro, head bowed, was booed as he walked off, and Seager hit Kyle Nelson’s slider 431 feet off a video board above the rightcentre wall for his sixth postseason homer. After a World Series opened with three errorless games for the first time, Arizona’s defence cracked at an inopportune time. After singles by Jung and Nathaniel Lowe with one out in the third, Luis Frías relieved and Heim hit a sharp grounder to Walker, who had a chance for a double play but dropped the ball on the transfer to his hand as he looked to throw to second. Jankowski doubled and Semien sent a fastball at the letters over the left-field wall. Heim had been 0 for 12 before his homer against Ryne Nelson.

PAGE 16, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

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KEN MULLINGS, of The Bahamas, competes in the men’s decathlon discus throw at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, yesterday.

(AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)

KEN MULLINGS ENDS DAY WITH ‘DID NOT FINISH’ IN DECATHLON FROM PAGE 12 completed the sixth race in the Dinghy ILCA 7 category in the waters of the Cofradía Náutica del Pacífico in Algarrobo, Chile. However, the Harbour Island native didn’t move up the final rankings, finishing in 17th place overall on the standings with 87 points. Still waiting to compete in their respective events in track and field for Team Bahamas on Friday are men’s high jumper Donald Thomas and female javelin thrower Rhema Otabor. Team Bahamas already earned a medal at the games during the first week of competition. Swimmer Lamar Taylor touched the wall for the bronze in the men’s 50 metre freestyle.

KEN MULLINGS, left, Brazil’s Felipe Dos Santos, centre, and Samuel Black of the United States compete in the men’s decathlon 100-metres heat on Monday. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia)

KEN Mullings salutes after winning the decathlon 100-metres heat on Monday. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

Young sailor Joshua Higgins finishes 17th overall in Dinghy ILCA 7

YOUNG sailor Joshua Higgins, of Harbour Island, completed the sixth race in the Dinghy ILCA 7 category in the waters of the Cofradía Náutica del Pacífico in Algarrobo, Chile, yesterday. However, he didn’t move up the final rankings, finishing 17th place overall.

KEN MULLINGS, of The Bahamas, runs in the men’s decathlon 100-metres heat at the Pan American Games on Monday. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

PAGE 18, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

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Bank denies ArawakX settlement negotiations FROM PAGE A24 Bank of The Bahamas, he asserted that the mere fact it was sent means negotiations are taking place. Mr Strachan, though, in his e-mail to the Securities Commission, wrote bluntly: “This is to formally advise that Bank of The Bahamas has not engaged in any negotiations of settlement terms, nor have we agreed to a settlement relative to MDollaz/ArawakX. An offer for settlement was sent to our attorneys. However, the offer was rejected.” He was contacted by Ms Rolle to seemingly test assertions made by Mr Rahming and ArawakX’s attorney, Khalil Parker KC, both in sworn affidavits and court hearings respectively, that settlement talks with Bank of The Bahamas were ongoing and progressing. “Per our conversation today, I am made to understand that you are not aware of any settlement

agreement and/or negotiations between Bank of The Bahamas and MDollaz/ ArawakX,” the Securities Commission’s executive director wrote. “Please note, however, that Mr Rahming has in multiple affidavits sworn that MDollaz/ArawakX is currently in settlement negotiations with Bank of The Bahamas and his lawyer has included in written submissions as well as oral arguments that MDollaz/ArawakX has an expectation to recover ‘significant damages’ from Bank of The Bahamas as a result of these negotiations. “I would appreciate if you could put the bank’s position in writing as the Commission would be obliged to advise the Supreme Court of this contradiction to the sworn document.” ArawakX has also argued against the winding-up and appointment of a provisional liquidator on the basis it would disrupt, and interfere

with, both the progress of the case against Bank of The Bahamas and any settlement talks. This argument, though, has been refuted by the Securities Commission which has argued that a provisional liquidator would be mandated to continue the legal battle. Ms Rolle, in her October 30, 2023, affidavit, said: “At the court hearing of October 13, 2023, the respondent via its attorney, Khalil Parker KC, openly stated this claim arguing that the Commission’s application for a provisional liquidator would interfere with the settlement discussions and likely disrupt them, depriving the respondent of anticipated funding due to the very high likelihood of those discussions being successful.” Mr Rahming, in response, told this newspaper: “I don’t know what to say to that. It’s our understanding from our lawyers that we are in talks with Bank

of The Bahamas. We have the case ongoing, and are in talks with Bank of The Bahamas. The case is ongoing and we are aware there is an injunction on the case. These are undeniable facts. “From my understanding and obviously from Khalil’s understanding, we are having a conversation. We did send in a settlement letter, and that’s our understanding of what it means by negotiation. If they have a different understanding or definition of what negotiation is, fine. They say we sent a letter to settle with them. If that’s not negotiation, I don’t know what is.” ArawakX is seeking damages from Bank of The Bahamas for breach of contract, injury to its credit and reputation and alleged “unlawful interference” with its business relationships, plus aggravated damages. No dollar figure, though, is specified in the statement of claim. Th crowd-funding platform and its parent,

Biden administration takes on JetBlue as its fight against industry consolidation goes to court A JETBLUE Airways Airbus A320, left, passes a Spirit Airlines Airbus A320 as it taxis on the runway, July 7, 2022, at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The Biden administration’s fight against consolidation in the airline industry will be tested Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023 with lawyers for JetBlue Airways and the Justice Department due in court. Photo:Wilfredo Lee/AP

MDollaz, said it first learned of a problem with its accounts when Tianna Gomez, a client relationship officer, informed ArawakX’s vice-president of clearing, Ken Donathan, on October 24, 2022, that it was unable to process a $48,900 payment to Foot and Ankle International. This represented a payment of investor monies to Dr Daniel Johnson’s business, Footcare RX, which had been raised from a crowd-funding issue via ArawakX. The latter alleged that it was then informed by Yvette Johnson, Bank of The Bahamas’ manager of premier and private banking, that its accounts were frozen following a meeting with James Campbell, its largest investor, who had injected some $1.6m into it. “The bank was visited yesterday (October 20, 2022) by Mr James Campbell, who provided an amendment to the Memorandum and Articles of

Association which introduced new articles specific to overriding provisions for the captioned company,” Ms Johnson allegedly wrote. “In light of the above, effective immediately all accounts have been placed on hold and actively ceased as a result of the untenable position the bank is presented with.” Other legal documents allege that a new Memorandum and Articles of Association for ArawakX were drawn up to facilitate Mr Campbell, as its largest investor, becoming a director with an option to convert his $1.3m into a 22 percent equity stake. However, the Rahmings have alleged these were never ratified, and they subsequently move to unwind them amid a battle for control of the crowd-funding platform with the former Colina Insurance Company president.

By DAVID KOENIG AP Airlines Writer

by growth from other discount airlines. The Justice Department says that is unlikely because all airlines, including the budget carriers, face limits to growth including shortages of planes and pilots. Spirit, which is based in Miramar, Florida, is known as an "ultra-low-cost carrier," the name given to airlines that tout rock-bottom fares but make up for it by charging high fees for things like checking a bag or carrying one on board. Spirit even charges for soft drinks. Personal-finance site Nerdwallet said passengers should expect to pay $137 in fees on a typical one-way flight, compared with $35 or less at the bigger airlines – including JetBlue. This isn't the first time that the government has challenged an airline merger. In 2013, regulators sued to stop the merger of American Airlines and US Airways. The deal, which created the world's biggest carrier, went through without a trial, however, after the airlines agreed to give up some gates and takeoff and landing rights at seven major airports. JetBlue tried that strategy: It offered to divest gates and landing and takeoff rights and gates in Boston, the New York City area and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Frontier and Allegiant. The government scoffed at the offer, saying those discount carriers have pledged to fly the same routes that Spirit flies now. The Biden administration may be having remorse for mergers that the Obama administration allowed to go through and which eliminated Northwest, Continental, US Airways and AirTran as competitors to the four largest U.S. airlines. The new trial is taking place in the same Boston courthouse where the Justice Department prevailed against JetBlue and American, but the case is being heard by a different judge. It is expected to last until early December. In New York on Tuesday, executives of JetBlue Airways Corp. blamed bad weather in September, air traffic control problems and rising fuel prices for the company's $153 million loss in the third quarter — a wider loss than expected. JetBlue forecast an adjusted loss of 35 cents to 55 cents per share and lower revenue over the last three months of the year. Analysts expected a loss of 15 cents per share, according to a FactSet survey. The airline's shares fell 10.5% to close Tuesday at $3.76, their lowest level since November 2011.

THE Biden administration's fight against consolidation in the airline industry is being tested Tuesday as lawyers for JetBlue Airways and the Justice Department squared off in court. The administration is suing to block JetBlue's proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines. The trial in federal district court in Boston could reshape the market for low-cost airlines — Spirit is by far the nation's biggest budget carrier, and it will disappear if JetBlue wins the case. As the trial began with opening statements from lawyers for sides, shares of JetBlue were falling to their lowest levels in more than a decade after the airline reported a wider loss than expected in the third quarter and predicted another surprisingly large loss for the fourth quarter. Executives declined to take questions about the Spirit deal. CEO Robin Hayes said it would be inappropriate while the matter was being debated in court. The Justice Department is fresh off victory in a previous lawsuit that killed a partnership between JetBlue and American Airlines. JetBlue isn't exactly the sort of behemoth that comes to mind when imagining a defendant in an antitrust case. It is the sixth-largest U.S. airline by revenue, and it is trying to buy the seventh-biggest. If it swallows Spirit, JetBlue will leapfrog Alaska Airlines but still control less than 10% of the U.S. air-travel market. It would remain far smaller than American, United, Delta or Southwest. But if JetBlue gets its way, it will grow its fleet about 70%, repaint Spirit's yellow planes and make them less cramped inside. The New York carrier argues that it needs Spirit to bulk up and compete better against the bigger airlines. JetBlue touts itself as "one of the most disruptive and innovative companies in the history of the airline industry," and says it can bring down fares if it can go headto-head against the Big Four on more routes. The Justice Department argues, however, that Spirit is the disruptive force that needs to be protected. "Consumers are better off with an independent Spirit, not a JetBlue intent on removing seats from planes and charging higher fares," government lawyers argued in their pre-trial brief. They say the harm will fall hardest on costconscious consumers. JetBlue says the vacuum left by Spirit would be filled

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 19

Minister ‘mischaracterised’ BPL’s $21m cost overrun capable of burning ADO, heavy fuel oil (HFO) or liquefied natural gas (LNG), because BPL had decided “to forego the engines’ gasready capabilities”. “Instead, BPL opted for the engines to be tuned for improved operational efficiency on the selected primary fuel option, Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). The records further indicate that the intent would be to convert the engines during either the manufacturerrecommended 32,000 hours or 48,000 hours overhaul,” Mr Cambridge wrote. “Even in December 2019, these engines were still being touted as tri-fuel when BPL knew they had modified the specifications from October 2018.” However, Mr Bannister argued that “they are still tri-fuel engines, and said BPL had opted not to proceed with the gas conversion kits that would allow them to use LNG at that time because the availability of this fuel source was still some three to four years away. The ability to employ LNG as a fuel source, he added, was directly tied to the deal the Minnis administration was negotiating with Shell North America for the latter to take over

New Providence’s baseload electricity generation and construct a regasification terminal at Clifton Pier. Those talks, though, appear to have halted with the change in administrations. Mr Cambridge, in his report, raised queries surrounding other decisions by the former BPL Board and management over the supporting infrastructure for the Wartsila engines. “It should also be noted that there was a deviation in the manner of connection of the units to the system. BPL typically connects its engines to the network through individual generator transformers,” he wrote. “This provides for optimum reliability at the points of connection. With respect to ‘Station A’, a decision was made to connect the seven engines through three transformers (three engines to one transformer, two engines to a second transformer and two engines to a third). “This presents an operational risk. Should either transformer fail, multiple engines would be disconnected from the system. In BPL’s normal configuration, the loss of one transformer would only result in the

disconnection of a single engine.” Mr Cambridge also questioned the use of “singular auxiliary systems”, adding: “This is inconsistent with redundant systems normally utilized in baseload power plants. And then there was “the reuse of the old, already compromised borehole cooling system at the original ‘Station A’” to cool the seven engines rather than employ a separate closed-loop radiator system as recommended by Wartsila. Tribune Business sources said no other BPL power plants employ closed-loop radiator systems with all reliant on bore hole cooling. They added that the closed-loop system would also have been exposed to corrosion from the salt air and hot year-round temperatures, which was why this solution was never adopted. This newspaper’s records showed Mr Bannister, though, backed the closedloop system. “I think there were some questions about where we go in the future as opposed to simply having what we had in the past with the same system,” he explained of his stance yesterday.

PM DENIES FTX GAVE HEAT ‘COURT SIDE’ SEATS

The FTX founder, in his e-mail, gave a now-typical apology for “this mess” and promised the crypto exchange was “deeply committed” to The Bahamas. He then revealed that it had separated all Bahamian client assets from those of other customers, and said it was “the very least of our duty to the country” to give them preferential treatment by returning their funds. “We are deeply grateful for what The Bahamas has done for us, and deeply committed to it. We are also deeply sorry about this mess,” Mr Bankman-Fried told Mr Pinder. “As part of this we have segregated funds for all Bahamian customers on FTX. “And we would be more than happy to open up withdrawals for all Bahamian customers on FTX, so that they can, tomorrow, fully withdraw all of their assets, making them fully whole. It’s your call whether you want us to do this, but we are more than happy to and would consider it the

very least of our duty to the country, and could open it up immediately if you reply saying you want us to. If we don’t hear back from you, we are going to go ahead and do it tomorrow.” There was NO EVIDENCE presented that Mr Pinder, or any Cabinet minister or government official, gave Mr BankmanFried permission to act and the FTX founder duly proceeded to do as he pleased - as the e-mail warned. The early morning message was also copied to Allyson Maynard-Gibson KC, the former attorney general and minister of financial services and investments, who is FTX’s Bahamian attorney. Ms Sassoon, meanwhile, yesterday alleged that Mr Bankman-Fried “bragged” Ryan Salame, former head of FTX Digital Markets, the crypto exchange’s local subsidiary, “was essentially a member of the Bahamian government”. The FTX founder said he was unable to recall writing such words.

FROM PAGE A24 engines going live in early 2020. Mr Cambridge’s report to the Prime Minister said some $117.9m in costs have been incurred “to-date” relating to ‘Station A’. These were broken down into $108.3m for the seven Wartsila engines and their “auxiliary” support infrastructure “through 2022”; $7.5m in expenses related to the “dismounting of Station A”; and $2.1m of repairs that remain ongoing to fix the building’s structure and prevent concrete spalling. Drawing on these figures, Mrs Coleby-Davis then told the House of Assembly on Monday: “To be clear, I am advised that the budgeted cost for the project was $96.9m. However, the costto-date is $117.9m, a cost overrun of some $21m. It is important to note that this figure continues to grow with no clear end in sight as many serious issues continue to come to light.” However, the alleged “overruns” was not the only aspect of Mr Cambridge’s review that Mr Bannister, the former deputy prime minister, took issue with yesterday. He queried why

FROM PAGE A24 was there to support a Bahamian player, and was greeted by the team owners and players of the Miami Heat. It was nothing to do with FTX. It just happened that FTX was sponsoring the arena” at that time. However, Mr BankmanFried’s trial continues to drip-feed allegations about his dealings with the Prime Minister. The “court-side” seat claims surfaced two weeks after an e-mail was presented in the FTX founder’s trial purporting to show that Mr Davis asked him to provide advice to his son about a digital assets project the latter was working on just two months before the crypto exchange collapsed. The contents of that e-mail have not been disputed by Mr Davis or his officials, although there is no suggestion of any

BPL’s chief executive could not “just say very clearly” that the fuel hedging strategy implemented by the former administration was “a good idea” that delivered reduced energy costs for Bahamian households and businesses at COVID’s peak. Mr Cambridge’s report to the Prime Minister said BPL’s fuel hedge was “in the money” even though the failure to achieve the targeted fuel mix “substantially ate into the benefits” because the utility ended up burning more of the expensive automated diesel oil (ADO) than originally projected. “I think he should have just said very clearly that the fuel hedge was a good idea and made a positive difference for the Bahamian people,” Mr Bannister said of the report, which was also sent to Alfred Sears KC, then-minister of works and utilities. “I’m not sure why he used that phrase. It just gives such a nasty impression. He started to explain it a little, and then went and made that statement. “It just shows the right decision was made at the right time with respect to the fuel hedge. It would be

wrongdoing by the Prime Minister in relation to those events. Mr Bankman-Fried, meanwhile, yesterday denied discussing with Mr Davis the possibility that FTX could pay-off The Bahamas’ entire $11.6bn national debt - as suggested in the book by author Michael Lewis. Facing hostile questioning by Ms Sassoon, he also denied that he co-operated with the Securities Commission of The Bahamas over the transfer of digital assets to the regulator as part of a ploy to regain control of FTX. “My memory is to play a role but not control,” Mr Bankman-Fried was reported to have ultimately answered. The Securities Commission, which obtained a Supreme Court order authorising the transfer of some $426m in digital assets to its care to prevent their loss to theft

silly to try and deny that.” The Davis administration’s decision not to support the fuel hedge with further cutprice fuel purchases, which the Opposition has blamed for fuel charge increases of up to 163 percent this summer, and ‘Station A’s’ challenges are two separate issues in the BPL political blame game. “I think it’s unfortunate that the Prime Minister and former minister of public works were provided with something called a review which didn’t adequately and clearly point out all the issues BPL faced and the accomplishments made in the face of those,” Mr Bannister told Tribune Business. “This is a lot of glossing over. Salient points, but glossing over them and making things look different from what they were. It’s a gloss over of what really happened. It’s not a substantive report. It doesn’t give a clear picture of what really happened. If you read this you will not appreciate what happened in relation to BPL.” The ex-deputy prime minister disputed the review’s assertion that the seven Wartsila engines were not tri-fuel engines,

and hacking, had to use the FTX founder and his partner, Gary Wang, to effect this process as only they had access to the wallets holding them. Mr Bankman-Fried was also challenged over his move to open FTX so only Bahamian customers could withdraw assets around the time the exchange was placed into provisional liquidation in The Bahamas and Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US. This action, while allowing some 1,500 purported “Bahamian” customers to withdraw a collective $100m from the crypto exchange, violated the asset freeze automatically imposed by both processes. Prosecutors asked whether Mr Bankman-Fried approached the Prime Minister over the Bahamian withdrawals plan, but he denied this was then case.

He acknowledged, though, that he wrote an e-mail about his plan, and said: “My memory is that it was a different member of The Bahamas’ government.” Tribune Business records suggest he was referring to Ryan Pinder KC, the attorney general, who he e-mailed about the scheme at 2.27am on Thursday, November 10, last year - just hours before the Supreme Court placed FTX into provisional liquidation locally. Mr Pinder last year denied that he or any government official gave permission to open up, adding that “no authorisation was given by any party” after an e-mail exchange between himself and Mr Bankman-Fried revealed the latter sought his go-ahead to “open up withdrawals for all Bahamian customers”.

CHAMBER’S ANNUAL TRADE EXPO IN SATURDAY RETURN FROM PAGE A23 opportunities and celebrate the vibrant and resilient spirit of Bahamian businesses.” Leo Rolle, the SBDC’s director of client advisory services, added: “This initiative highlights the importance of partnerships and collaboration for the betterment of stakeholders, clients and the populace.

We are most pleased to see the opportunity for entrepreneurs across various industries afforded the exposure, networking and visibility made possible through this joint venture. “The mantra of the SBDC remains focused on the evolution of Bahamianled MSMEs (micro, small and medium-sized businesses) and their impact to the social, economic and

environmental impact of the economy. We are proud that our collective efforts continue to make this mandate possible”. Charnette Thompson, vice-president of B2B innovations for Aliv Business, said: “We are thrilled to partner with both the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) and The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’

Confederation (BCCEC) in this 2023 Trade Expo. “As the leader in fixed, mobile and cloud solutions for MSMEs, we are dedicated to fostering innovation and growth. We also remain committed to supporting leaders and managers on their journey to build and grow their business.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that ISHNADA VICTOR of Kendal Road, Blue Hill South, Nassau, 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 1st day of November, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that ALEXIS BAILEY AGRAMONTE, Central Pine, Dundas Town, Abaco, 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 1st day of November 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that DAVID YAQUE PEREZ, P.O. Box CB 13069 Delaprte Point, 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 1st day of November 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that MAXWELL JOSEPH of Central Pine, Abaco, 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 25th day of October, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

Share your news The Tribune wants to hear from people who are making news in their neighbourhoods. Perhaps you are raising funds for a good cause, campaigning for improvements in the area or have won an award. If so, call us on 322-1986 and share your story.

PAGE 20, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

KFC INDUSTRIAL ACTION HALT WITH ‘HISTORIC’ DEAL FROM PAGE A24 eight years since the last KFC industrial agreement expired in 2015. However, Mr Woods said the terms have improved such that union members will now receive 60 percent of this lump payment, which has been guaranteed, “upfront” with the 40 percent balance to paid in years three and four. Declining to provide a figure for the revised lump sum payment, the BHCAWU president said: “We had given them a counter-proposal and told them what we were looking for for persons. They called me at the end of last week, Thursday, to say they accepted it and asked us to cease industrial action.

“I got them to agree to a 60 percent payment upfront, and 40 percent in years three and four, as well as to guarantee payment to persons once we sign the industrial agreement. The first payment, the 60 percent, will be made and come into effect ten days after the signing.” Mr Woods said KFC has the flexibility, and choice, as to whether it pays the 40 percent lump sum balance in either the third or fourth year of what is intended to be a five-year deal. “The point is that it is guaranteed to persons who are in the system at the signing,” he added. “We’re hoping to have it signed in the next 14 days. “We are pulling together the text right now in terms of everything that has been

INTER-SHIPPING MANAGEMENT LTD. LIQUIDATOR’S NOTICE Pursuant to Section 138(6) of the International Business Companies Act NOTICE is hereby given that INTER-SHIPPING MANAGEMENT LTD., a company registered under the International Business Companies Act, has been dissolved and struck off the Register as of the 11th day of October 2023. ___________________________ Sterling (Bahamas) Limited Liquidator

DOWNTON INVESTMENTS LTD. LIQUIDATOR’S NOTICE Pursuant to Section 138(6) of the International Business Companies Act NOTICE is hereby given that DOWNTON INVESTMENTS LTD., a company registered under the International Business Companies Act, has been dissolved and struck off the Register as of the 11th day of October 2023. ___________________________ Sterling (Bahamas) Limited Liquidator

PUBLIC NOTICE This is to inform the public that B.K.B Enterprises Machine Shop located on #96 Miami Street will be closing permenantly on Friday, November 24th, 2023 Signed BKB Enterprises Management

agreed. It has to be looked at by legal and we will know, hopefully by next week, as to when this will be signed. I’d like to have it signed hopefully somewhere around the week of the 15th if we get all the legal work done. Definitely, definitely by the end of this month.” Mr Woods hailed the proposed KFC industrial agreement as “historic” because it provides for pay increases in four of the five years and, in return, he urged staff to deliver productivity and customer service to match. “I would have had the meeting with staff to ratify it,” the union chief said of his Monday meeting with KFC workers, “and they are very pleased with what was offered. They have accepted it. Industrial action ceased last week Thursday. I said to them: ‘This is what the company’s offering. We can live

with it, and believe they can live with it’.... “What we have been able to get for workers in KFC has been historic. Out of the five years we have four increases, which is historic. The last agreement had one increase. The overall increase is around 40 percent over five years separate and apart from the lump sum.” In return, Mr Woods said the union had told KFC line staff: “We said to them we expect the level of service to be elevated commensurate with what you’re being paid. These negotiations have been protracted, going on for a long time, and they now need to take care of customers who have been frequenting this company for many years and show they appreciate their patronage.” With KFC negotiations seemingly progressing

towards a resolution, the BHCAWU president added that the union will soon turn its focus to other outstanding industrial deals with Best Western, Graycliff and Harbourside, as well as the major one with the Bahamas Hotel and Restaurant Employers Association that represents Atlantis. Mr Woods previously said all remaining negotiations “seem to be stuck in this place” of trying to agree worker compensation and benefits, and he added of the KFC talks’ wrapup: “That puts the ball in motion for everything else. “We can focus our attention on the others that are outstanding. Harborside, that’s the next one, and that’s pretty much in the same place. We’ve said we will do what is necessary to bring closure by the end of the year. Graycliff is the one we’re having most challenges with, and we’ve said we’ll do what is necessary to bring some relief to those persons also.

“We’re really excited to be able to close this particular chapter [KFC] with a view closing others in a matter of days hopefully. That’s all we have left in the year, days.” The hotel union and its members have been without an industrial agreement with the Bahamas Hotel and Restaurant Employers Association since the last one expired in January 2013, more than one decade ago. A former union administration failed to supply its proposal for a new agreement within the time stipulated before the last deal ended. As a result, Atlantis and other resorts in the Association have operated as if the previous agreement’s terms and conditions are still in effect and, as a result, BHCAWU union members have not enjoyed any wage or benefit improvements for the past ten years other than those provided at their employer’s goodwill.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 21

BPL UNION PRESIDENTS NOT VISITED ‘STATION A’ IN YEARS By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net BAHAMAS Power & Light’s (BPL) line staff union leader yesterday said he has not been inside Clifton Pier’s ‘Station A’ power plant for years. Kyle Wilson, the Bahamas Electrical Workers Union’s (BEWU) president, told Tribune Business he has “never set foot” inside the facility despite all the controversy surrounding the plant, is alleged structural deficiencies and

potential danger his members may face from spalling, which is pieces of concrete falling off the walls and buildings. Mr Wilson said: “I never stepped foot in there (Station A) and never was invited to. They had it gated off from BPL employees from even going over there. “Respect for the BEWU is something they are trying to bring back to BPL, because respect for union leaders like myself that represent the energy sector and are in the energy sector, and I work at BPL, someone should have seen it fit to invite the president to

KYLE WILSON show him this great thing that they have going on.” Mr Wilson said he cannot make any comment about the situation his members

now face at ‘Station A’, which houses 132 Mega Watts (MW) of generation capacity from the seven Wartsila engines, because he knows “very little” about the inputs that went into the facility. However, he is “optimistic” about the path forward for BPL and its assets now that information about the utility’s condition is being revealed. Christopher Hanna, president of the Bahamas Electrical Utility Managerial Union (BEUTM), which represents BPL’s middle managers, said he has “not

been to visit Station A in five to six years”. He added: “With the managers union, you may only have two or three managers who would have to go over to Station A and I would need to inquire about it. But Station A does look bad. I don’t know if we should have ever put the Wartsila machines in Station A.” During the previous Free National Movement (FNM) administration, Mr Hanna said he was “not allowed” to go inside Station A because there was a fence running across the area. “BPL workers just weren’t

allowed to go in, but I can inquire more on it and find out how my members feel about the report on Clifton Pier,” he added. JoBeth Coleby-Davis, minister responsible for transportation and energy, on Wednesday tabled in Parliament a report produced by BPL’s chief executive, Shevonn Cambridge, and asserted that it revealed a $21m overrun on the cost associated with the ‘Station A’ investment which had failed to deliver the promised efficiencies and savings.

BTC TARGETS GB FIBRE FINISH BY YEAR’S END

NAME NAME

Arawak port beats profit target by 18% FROM PAGE A24 a notice. “The awarding of a second crane would be at the sole discretion of APD Management and is not automatic. “An estimated 90 percent of imported containers will not be affected by the tariff increases described above. This is an optional service extended to carriers, is not a mandatory service and does not directly influence the cost of importing cargo into New Providence.” APD, in its initial forecasts for the now-closed 2023 financial year, said: “For the 2023 fiscal year, we are budgeting gross revenue of $30.619m or 2.2 percent more than the prior year’s actual gross revenue.” Full-year revenues for 2022 came in at $29.96m, meaning the company had forecast just a $623,000 year-over-year

top-line increase, although the impact on profits was projected to be much more. “Net income is projected to be approximately $8.226m or approximately $808,000 more than the 2022 actual net income of $7.418m,” the BISXlisted port operator revealed. “Our net income is currently 56 percent or $1.197m over budget as of September 30, 2022. This is attributable to the increase in storage fees, and TEU and vehicle volumes, being over budget. “Ongoing projects currently include Global Port Holdings (Nassau Cruise Port) and downtown redevelopment; the US Embassy; Goldwynn Condo Hotel and Residences; and South Ocean resort. All these projects are in progress. Management remains extremely conservative and

does not foresee any significant project volumes during financial year.” APD added that total TEU container throughput volumes for the 2023 fullyear were forecast to be 9,000, or 7 percent higher, than 2022’s 127,000 forecast. Container volumes for the 12 months to endJune 2022 came in slightly above forecast at 128,995, which also represented an 8 percent jump over 2021’s 118,962 TEUs. “Nassau Container Port’s TEU volumes as of September 30, 2022, are tracking 3.94 percent over budget. Total revenues as of September 30, 2022, are tracking about 23 percent over budget,” APDs 2022 annual report revealed. “Total market volumes are estimated to be around 136,000 TEUs for 2023 or 9,000 TEU above the

2022 budgeted volumes of 127,000 TEUs. “Our total revenues as of September 30, 2022, are over budget by approximately $1.728m or 23 percent. Total expenses as of September 30, 2022, were over budget by $665,625 driven mainly by increase in terminal handling fees related to import volumes and storage.”

THE BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday said Grand Bahama is “on track” to become the first island where it completes its fibre-to-the-home network infrastructure roll-out. The carrier, in a statement, said that as a result of its October efforts customers in Grand Bahama communities such as North Bahamia, South Bahamia, Hawksbill, Wellington Pinder Heights and Seargeant Major Road are now able to enjoy fibre services. The roll-out coincided with BTC’s latest Fibre Fest initiative, held on Saturday, October 28. BTC’s sales team moved into the “Back of Town” area as well as North and South Bahamia, touting the new network’s benefits and encouraging residents to sign up for its various broadband Internet services. Dominic Petty, BTC’s executive senior manager for the northern Bahamas, joined residents at last Saturday’s Fibre Fest and said: “Our primary mission in Grand Bahama is to raise

awareness among residents about our fibre service. “We believe that signing up with us will simplify their lives. It was truly heartwarming to witness the strong turnout at last Saturday’s Fibre Fest. These events play a vital role in fortifying our relationships and building stronger connections within the community. “We are dedicated to hosting several more Fibre Fest initiatives before the year concludes because we are fully committed to making Grand Bahama the first island in The Bahamas to be fully fiberised by the end of 2023. Our dedication to achieving this goal is unwavering, and we are well on track to fulfill our commitment.” Mr Petty said the response from customers has been positive, and the Northern Bahamas is witnessing a daily increase in sales and satisfaction. “Moreover, in the coming months, even more residents will gain access to BTC’s fibre services,” he added.

PAGE 22, Wednesday, November 1, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

DPM URGES UN TO TAKE INTERNATIONAL TAX CONTROL By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Editor jsimmons@tribunemedia.net THE deputy prime minister yesterday renewed calls for a body such as the United Nations (UN) to oversee global tax issues as The Bahamas has been “playing catch up” with the OECD and Europe for too long. Chester Cooper said the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) and European Union (EU) have their own “self-interest” to protect and continuously shift the standards competing jurisdictions such as The Bahamas and other international financial centres (IFCs) have to meet. He said: “I think this has gone on too long. For four

years as the shadow minister for financial services, I spoke on these issues. “We’ve been playing catch up too long. We’ve been on defence too long. And it’s now time for the international bodies to approach these matters fairly and practically, but also in a measured way so that there is not a consistent, continued changing of the goalposts. “It is time that we get the international bodies like the OECD and the EU Commission to recognise that they have self-interest. Self-interest that may not be in line with international social justice.” Last month, Michael Halkitis, minister of economic affairs, said there is “momentum building” among Caribbean and

African nations, as well as international financial centres (IFCs), to ensure tax matters are dealt with under the UN - a forum they feel will be fairer and more attuned to their interests Mr Cooper yesterday echoed the call for the UN to determine global tax regulations, adding that The Bahamas is a “mainstream international financial centre of high repute” that wishes to be compliant with global best practices. He said: “We’re asking the UN, as a collective CARICOM, and in partnership with African countries and other right-thinking countries around the world, to make that pitch to the UN that they take this process over and implement

a global regulatory framework for international financial services and tax management. “We want to be compliant. We’ve built a very successful international financial services business over the years. We are not interested in playing around the edges on this industry. We are a mainstream international financial centre of high repute and we’ve done it successfully for many, many years. “We have pivoted, we have been successful. We will continue to pivot in the best interest of our country to be able to offer international financial services in a sensible but fair framework.” Mr Cooper added that The Bahamas must continue to collaborate with

other countries to fight the “injustice” of the EU and OCED “whether we prevail or not”. He said: “We must continue to fight what we consider to be injustice whether we prevail or not. We are confident, though, that with collaboration and in being proactive, and with us leading the charge… that we will be heard. And, over time, we will make progress. “It’s a battle but, you know, it’s not the war. And that is why we will continue to fight every battle that we need to.” Mr Cooper explained that developing countries are often “bludgeoned” into practices that are not suited for their economic interests by the OECD and EU. However, each country

has a vote mandated by the UN, so the process would have a more favourable outcome if developing countries collaborate. He said: “At the UN there’s one country, one vote mandate, and in CARICOM, we have 14. US has one but all of these countries would have a single vote. “Small island developing states are often overlooked or bludgeoned into global practices that may not be in line with their economic interest. But we must continue to collaborate with other countries who are confronted with the same issues and speak with one voice.”

GOV’T ‘INTENTIONAL’ OVER LIVEABLE WAGE IS ‘ONGOING PROCESS’ POST-DORIAN RECOVERY By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Editor jsimmons@tribunemedia.net THE deputy prime minister says Grand Bahama is now enjoying the highest percentage increase in airlift of any island as the Government has been “intentional” over the post-Dorian rebound. Chester Cooper, also minister of tourism, investments and aviation, said: “What we are seeing is Nassau/Paradise Island is the lead. It’s really the anchor, if you will, for the tourism industry, but there’s so much more. “People remember Grand Bahama most lately as the place that Dorian struck. We have been intentional and growing on returning and rebounding Grand Bahama and Abaco back to the glory days, and this is what we’re seeing. “We have been intentional, and therefore Grand Bahama is now leading the way with a highest percentage increase in airlift to the island. We have intentionally used Bahamasair strategically to implement a Raleigh to Grand Bahama flight, and we are putting that back in place shortly in the next in the next few days.” Mr Cooper added that Bimini is experiencing a growth rate of over 130 percent, while Exuma and Cat Island are expanding at 11 percent and all other islands are between 20 and 50 percent. He said: “We have gone all around the world and told the world about the 16 destinations and, as a result, we see Bimini growing at a clip exceeding 130 percent. We see Exuma and Cat Island, holding its own around 11 percent, and we see all of the other islands between 20 and 50 percent growth. This is phenomenal.” Mr Cooper said that while he does not anticipate a

decline in tourism demand The Bahamas is “constrained” by our current room capacity so the ministry has launched an initiative to encourage Bahamians to provide short-term rentals. He said: “I will make one point, though, that though there is no end in sight at this point for the demand to travel to the islands of The Bahamas, we are constrained by our capacity. So on the investment side of my work, we’re encouraging more developers to build more resorts; to build more rooms. And we are working with every Bahamian on our new ‘Host the Guest’ initiative. “We are putting our money on some incentives and some concessions behind us. We got to roll it out in January to encourage every Bahamian to participate actively in the tourism boom that we are seeing” Mr Cooper explained that adding short-term rentals to smaller Family Island communities can provide visitors with an authentic Bahamian experience where they can interact with residents and support local businesses. He said: “Get on Airbnb, VRBO, or one of the other booking engines and ensure that we have properties which are aligned with our community-based tourism initiative, aligned with our people-to-people programme, where we can have our tourists living in small communities like Rolleville, Exuma, for that authentic feeling, eating at local restaurants, shopping at convenience stores, driving in local taxis going out with local tour guides or just having a drink out of bar and talking with our residents there. “This is what we are advancing. It’s one of the strategies that we are using for the future to help us to ramp up inventory quickly.”

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Government’s labour director yesterday said the National Tripartite Council has been discussing the concept of a “livable wage” and described it as “an ongoing process”. Robert Farquharson said of the body that deals with all labour-related matters in The Bahamas: “The National Tripartite Council has already begun discussions on the livable wage. I won’t be able to give you a timeframe, but it’s an ongoing process.” The Davis administration promised to introduce a livable wage and review the minimum wage in its 2021 ‘Blueprint for Change’ manifesto. In January 2023, the Government increased the minimum wage gy 24 percent, or $50 per week, from $210 to $260. Mr Farquharson said the National Tripartite Council has “reached out to a number of local, regional and international institutions” to discuss a livable wage and, once those consultations are completed, it will begin to liaise with the private sector and trade unions. He explained that the livable wage will set out how much the average Bahamian family needs to maintain a reasonable standard of living, and acknowledged it will

ROBERT FARQUHARSON be an “enormous task” that accounts for daily living expenses such as education, insurance and fuel. Mr Farquharson said: “What the livable wage does, it goes beyond the aspect of a minimum wage. It sets the standard of what our typical Bahamian family would need to live in The Bahamas. It includes insurance and the cost of gas and cost of fuel, costs of education. All those things have to come into play, and it’s an enormous task. “We look forward to exceptional co-operation and collaboration with the private sector, with the civil society and have a number of Town Meetings to get the views of the Bahamian

people on really what it is to implement this livable wage.” University of The Bahamas (UoB) researchers, in a study produced in 2021, pegged Nassau’s monthly living wage at $2,625 while the equivalent for Grand Bahama was $3,550 per month. The authors, Lesvie Archer, Olivia Saunders, Bridget Hogg, Vijaya Permual and Brittney Johnson, wrote: “Our gross living wage estimate for New Providence is 26 percent lower than the Grand Bahama living wage estimate, nearly 200 percent higher than the national minimum wage, 127 percent higher than 2013 poverty

line and nearly 75 percent higher than the minimum wage hike proposed by a local union. “Our living wage estimate for Grand Bahama is nearly 300 percent higher than the living wage, 200 percent higher than the 2013 poverty line and 140 percent higher than the minimum wage hike proposed by a local union.” The Bahamas’ private sector minimum wage, last increased following VAT’s introduction in 2015, is currently $210 a week.” The minimum wage, though, is defined differently from the “livable wage” measure employed by the UoB study. It based its work on a model employed by Richard Anker, the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) living wage specialist, who defined a livable wage as one that can sustain a person’s “physical, emotional, social and cultural needs and that of their family beyond mere subsistence”. Food and housing costs, based on a “nutritious diet” and “decent housing”, were factored into the calculations together with other daily living costs, while the research also drew on data from sources such as the 2019 Labour Market Information Newsletter; 2017 Labour Force Report; and 2016 Government of the Bahamas salary book.

MULTIPLE EVENTS TO MARK NATIONAL MSME MONTH By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net THE Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) yesterday said it will stage multiple events throughout The Bahamas

this month to highlight the importance of micro, small and medium-sized firms (MSMEs). Samantha Rolle, the SBDC’s executive director, said: “The Small Business Development Centre is proud to announce the proclamation of November as National Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises month for the second consecutive year. “[The month] serves to spotlight the pivotal role MSMEs play in the Bahamian economy, driving economic impact and fostering community growth and development. We’ve curated quite a number of events…. “We’re going to visit some Family Islands. We’re going to start with Grand Bahama with our brunch in business. It’s set up as an interactive, informational, entrepreneurial business session with local entrepreneurs within that community. We will then follow that by heading to Cat Island, Exuma and Abaco.” Ms Rolle explained that the SBDC will collaborate with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Aliv Business and Bahamasair to hold events and activities during the month that

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will celebrate and empower MSMEs. She said: “The global community faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. And, as signs of economic recovery emerge, the Government of The Bahamas underscores the importance of celebrating and nurturing the thriving MSME sector. “This year’s theme, ‘Empowering the Bahamian dreams’, will resonate throughout the month, emphasising the role of strategic partnerships and empowerment in fostering the growth of Bahamian entrepreneurs and businesses. “We are elated to spearhead this prestigious opportunity to celebrate businesses throughout The Bahamas; the journey of empowering Bahamian entrepreneurs and business owners to realise their full potential continues.” Ms Rolle added that the SBDC has received more than 2,000 requests for funding and advisory services over the past year and will continue to engage Family Island residents and forge partnerships with MSMEs around the country. She said: “The SBDC impact in the last 18 months has doubled the number of approvals for our guaranteed loan programme, and in the last year received over 2,000 requests for funding programmes, advisory services and mentorship. “As we expand our presence in the Family Islands, our aim is to strengthen our service offerings,

streamline processes and build strategic partnerships, anticipating transformative growth in our client base.” The Government’s strategies include increased access to funding, tax relief and incentivising joint ventures between foreign and local investors. Ms Rolle encouraged Bahamian entrepreneurs to participate in the MSME month activities, which will close with a celebration in New Providence on November 30. She said: “Throughout November, national MSME month will feature a series of events dedicated to showcasing the accomplishments of talented Bahamian business owners. These events will culminate with an honorary celebration in New Providence on November 30, symbolising the successful conclusion of a month devoted to empowering Bahamian dreams. “We encourage individuals to follow our social media pages at Access Accelerator to stay informed about the full month of activities and the impact of MSMEs on the Bahamian economy. “We realise that on the Family Islands it’s a little different in terms of getting the word out there so we’ve connected with all of our strategic partners across the islands. We’ve connected with the pool of administrators, community local mayors, community leaders all to get the word out. All are welcomed and none will be turned away so please come and join us.”

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, November 1, 2023, PAGE 23

CHAMBER’S ANNUAL TRADE EXPO IN SATURDAY RETURN THE BAHAMAS Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) will this Saturday host its Annual Trade Expo at Crypto Isle’s offices on East Bay Street. The event, which will take place from 10am to 8pm, will offer free entry as it seeks to highlight the diverse range of goods and services offered by Bahamian companies. Its ultimate goal is to expand their market reach and development and, in so doing, strengthen the business community and bolster economic growth. The Small Business Development Centre’s

(SBDC) Access Accelerator, ALIV Business and Crypto Isle have partnered to support the event. More than 40 exhibitors are scheduled to attend, representing a variety of sectors and offering a blend of both products and services. Among them will be wellestablished large companies and smaller yet recognised and emerging brands. This edition marks the third installment of the BCCEC’s Trade Expo, and is the first to be held since the COVID-19 pandemic. Khrystle Rutherford-Ferguson, the Chamber’s chair, said in a statement: “We are proud to reintroduce our

trade show. The trade show will allow our members and other interested businesses to showcase their products and services. With small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs growing, the BCCEC continues to look for opportunities to highlight innovation, talents, and expertise in our local private sector. “Further, this initiative supports our mandate of encouraging economic growth. It also complements other events we have hosted throughout the year, which increase trade, provide networking

MR. and Mrs. Worrell, owners of Bahamian tea company Naturally Bahamian at the 2019 BCCEC Trade Expo. Photo:Donald Knowles

SEE PAGE A19

Promotion Board gives travel conference dates THE NASSAU Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB) yesterday announced it will host next year’s International Travel Partners Conference (ITPC) from June 24-28 at Atlantis and Baha Mar’s Grand Hyatt. The 2024 conference will focus on updates concerning New Providence as a destination, plus feature one-on-one business

appointments and networking opportunities for tour operators. Educational seminars for travel advisors as well as partner hotel site inspections will also be held. Participants will be given the opportunity to experience activities within the destination and have free time to explore. The weeklong conference will include nights filled with dinner

events, showcasing Bahamian cuisine and cultural celebrations. “We’re thrilled to host industry professionals in our destination once more for the 2024 International Travel Partners Conference”,” said Joy Jibrilu, the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board’s chief executive. “This conference provides us with the

opportunity to immerse our partners in our island’s rich culture and natural beauty while emphasising the importance of collaboration in all tourism endeavours.” More than 115 participants from over 15 countries gathered in Nassau and Paradise Island for this year’s International Travel Partners Conference

“After the great success that we saw last June, we look forward to inviting our valued travel partners back to the destination next year for four days full of networking, valuable relationship building and a genuine dive into island life,” added Mrs Jibrilu. This conference is an invitation-only event.

THE WEATHER REPORT

5-DAY FORECAST

ORLANDO

High: 74° F/23° C Low: 58° F/14° C

TAMPA

TONIGHT

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

An a.m. shower; breezy in the p.m.

Breezy; a couple of showers late

Very windy; mostly cloudy, a shower

Very windy; a passing shower or two

Humid with a thunderstorm in spots

Some sun with a shower in the area

High: 84°

Low: 77°

High: 82° Low: 77°

High: 83° Low: 75°

High: 84° Low: 76°

AccuWeather RealFeel

93° F

76° F

81°-75° F

82°-75° F

89°-79° F

93°-81° F

ABACO

High: 81° F/27° C Low: 72° F/22° C

12-25 knots

WEST PALM BEACH High: 82° F/28° C Low: 71° F/22° C

10-20 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE

FREEPORT

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 71° F/22° C

W S

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 72° F/22° C

MIAMI

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 72° F/22° C

12-25 knots

KEY WEST

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 71° F/22° C

NASSAU

Low

Ht.(ft.)

Today

11:00 a.m. 11:21 p.m.

3.3 2.5

4:35 a.m. 5:33 p.m.

0.1 0.4

ALMANAC

Thursday

11:49 a.m. -----

3.1 -----

5:23 a.m. 6:25 p.m.

0.4 0.6

Statistics are for Nassau through 2 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 86° F/30° C Low .................................................... 79° F/26° C Normal high ....................................... 83° F/28° C Normal low ........................................ 71° F/22° C Last year’s high .................................. 89° F/32° C Last year’s low ................................... 72° F/22° C Precipitation As of 2 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.00” Year to date ................................................ 47.89” Normal year to date ................................... 35.60”

Friday

12:13 a.m. 12:42 p.m.

2.3 2.9

6:13 a.m. 7:19 p.m.

0.7 0.9

Saturday

1:09 a.m. 1:37 p.m.

2.2 2.8

7:09 a.m. 8:16 p.m.

0.9 1.0

Sunday

1:10 a.m. 1:35 p.m.

2.2 2.7

7:10 a.m. 8:13 p.m.

1.1 1.0

Monday

2:12 a.m. 2:31 p.m.

2.2 2.6

8:13 a.m. 9:04 p.m.

1.2 1.0

Tuesday

3:08 a.m. 3:23 p.m.

2.3 2.6

9:13 a.m. 9:50 p.m.

1.1 0.8

SUN AND MOON Sunrise Sunset

7:17 a.m. Moonrise 6:29 p.m. Moonset

9:37 p.m. 11:08 a.m.

Last

New

First

Full

Nov. 5

Nov. 13

Nov. 20

Nov. 27

CAT ISLAND

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 77° F/25° C

8-16 knots

7-14 knots Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 78° F/26° C

N W

TIDES FOR NASSAU Ht.(ft.)

ELEUTHERA

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 77° F/25° C

The higher the AccuWeather UV IndexTM number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection.

High

The exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature® is an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body—everything that affects how warm or cold a person feels. Temperatures reflect the high and the low for the day.

UV INDEX TODAY

TODAY

High: 75° F/24° C Low: 53° F/12° C

JOY JIBRILU

ANDROS

SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 78° F/26° C

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 79° F/26° C

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 78° F/26° C

W S

LONG ISLAND

TRACKING MAP

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 80° F/27° C

7-14 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 85° F/29° C Low: 78° F/26° C

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 84° F/29° C Low: 81° F/27° C

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 81° F/27° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 86° F/30° C Low: 80° F/27° C

6-12 knots

MARINE FORECAST ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday: Today: Thursday:

WINDS N at 10-20 Knots NE at 20-30 Knots N at 8-16 Knots NE at 20-30 Knots NW at 7-14 Knots NE at 20-30 Knots N at 6-12 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots NNW at 7-14 Knots NNE at 20-30 Knots N at 10-20 Knots NE at 12-25 Knots NW at 7-14 Knots NE at 20-30 Knots NW at 6-12 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots NW at 6-12 Knots NE at 15-25 Knots NNE at 4-8 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots N at 7-14 Knots NE at 15-25 Knots NW at 6-12 Knots NE at 12-25 Knots NW at 7-14 Knots NE at 20-30 Knots

WAVES 3-6 Feet 8-12 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 8-12 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 10-14 Feet 3-5 Feet 4-7 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 3-6 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 3-6 Feet 1-2 Feet 3-5 Feet 1-2 Feet 4-8 Feet

VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles 3 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles 10 Miles 4 Miles 10 Miles 6 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 80° F 80° F 81° F 81° F 82° F 81° F 83° F 83° F 81° F 81° F 80° F 80° F 82° F 82° F 83° F 83° F 82° F 82° F 82° F 82° F 81° F 81° F 83° F 82° F 81° F 81° F

business@tribunemedia.net

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2023

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PM denies FTX gave Heat ‘court side’ seats By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE PRIME Minister’s spokesman last night refuted claims he received free “court-side seat” tickets from FTX and other hospitality perks in attending a Miami Heat basketball game. Latrae Rahming, communications spokesman for Philip Davis KC, told Tribune Business the Prime Minister’s attendance at the December 1, 2021, matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers was “not contingent” on any gifts provided by the failed crypto currency exchange and its embattled founder, Sam Bankman-Fried. He spoke out after Mr Bankman-Fried, while giving evidence

t 3FKFDUT DMBJNT GSPN 4#' T /FX :PSL USJBM t '59 GPVOEFS GBJMFE UP SFGVUF BMMFHBUJPOT t 1. T QSFTFODF AOPUIJOH UP EP XJUI '59 at his New York trial on multiple fraud and money laundering counts, failed to emphatically deny that Mr Davis and his wife, Ann-Marie, received “court-side

seats” at the the then-FTX arena courtesy of the crypto exchange. Danielle Sassoon, an assistant US attorney who is a member of the prosecution team, asked in federal court yesterday whether he gave the Prime Minister and his wife those seats. Mr BankmanFried, according to Bloomberg’s report of the court proceedings, replied: “I’m not sure. I think they did go to a game. I don’t know the details.” However, Ms Sassoon, who sought to create the impression of a cosy relationship between Mr Bankman-Fried and FTX on one side, and the Davis administration and key figures in it on the other, challenged the FTX founder’s seemingly hazy memory by saying: “There’s a message where

you say he’s [Mr Davis] in a court side seat with his wife.” That version of events was last night vehemently disputed by Mr Davis’ spokesman. “The Prime Minister did attend a basketball game on December 1 to support a Bahamian player, Evan Mobley, with the Cleveland Cavaliers,” Mr Rahming told this newspaper in response. “His attendance was not contingent on hospitality by FTX and there were no tickets from them. “He simply went there to support a Bahamian player and watch the game. His wife was not present at all. He

SEE PAGE A19

Minister ‘mischaracterised’ BPL’s $21m cost overrun By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net A CABINET minister was yesterday accused of “mischaracterising” a review of Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) key generation investment by suggesting it had incurred a $21m cost “overrun”. Desmond Bannister, who had ministerial responsibility for BPL under the former Minnis administration, told Tribune Business the report into challenges with Clifton Pier’s ‘Station A’ power plant did not read as if there were any such overruns “the way it is set up”. Suggesting it was “unfortunate” that Jobeth Coleby-Davis, minister of transport and energy, would make such assertions to the House of

Assembly, he branded the review submitted to the Government by Shevonn Cambridge, BPL’s chief executive, as “a gloss over of what really happened” with ‘Station A’ and the installation of the seven Wartsila baseload engines. “It is unfortunate that the minister stood up in the House and mischaracterised what that report was really about and what happened at BPL,” Mr Bannister told this newspaper. “It’s a mischaracterisation to say that it was a cost overrun. I’m wondering why they even did this report because, quite frankly, I don’t even think it speaks about any overruns the way it is set up.” Mrs Coleby-Davis, in tabling Mr Cambridge’s July 30, 2023, review in Parliament, argued that the $117.9m spent on ‘Station

A’ to-date represented a $21m “overrun” on the initial $96.9m budget allocated under the Minnis administration. In percentage terms, this alleged “overrun” was around 21.7 percent. However, the dates in the report signal that at least some of the former figure relates to expenses incurred after the Minnis administration was voted out of office in September 2021 because they refer to the year 2022. And the report’s use of the term “to-date” indicates that ongoing expenses are included in the $117.9m figure because it comprises all costs up to end-July this year. Other sources familiar with the Wartsila deal and engines’ installation, speaking on condition of anonymity, have also challenged the “overrun”

DESMOND BANNISTER

ARAWAKX’S belief that it stands to win “significant damages” from Bank of The Bahamas is being contested by the BISX-listed bank which says the two sides “have not engaged in any” settlement talks. Neil Strachan, the commercial bank’s managing director, told Christina Rolle, the Securities Commission’s executive director, in an October 25, 2023, e-mail that no settlement has been

D’ARCY RAHMING SNR agreed with the embattled crowd-funding platform as the latter’s offer was previously “rejected”. The Securities Commission’s chief, in her latest legal filing with the

Supreme Court over the bid to have ArawakX wound-up, asserted that Bank of The Bahamas’ response contradicted previous sworn assertions by both D’Arcy Rahming senior, the crowd funding platform’s president, and his attorney “that there are ongoing settlement discussions/negotiations” between the parties. Ms Rolle said the BISXlisted institution’s position also has implications for ArawakX’s hope that a damages payout could restore it to financial health amid allegations it has a $2.4m solvency gap. The

JOBETH COLEBY-DAVIS assertion. One explained that the $96.9m covered only the initial acquisition and installation costs, and that the $117.9m figures includes expenses incurred subsequent to the Wartsila

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crowd-funding platform is seeking damages after the bank previously froze all its accounts amid a battle for control with its major investor, former Colina Insurance Company president, James Campbell. However Mr Rahming senior, contacted by Tribune Business at the Pan-Am Games in Chile, yesterday argued that there appeared to be a difference of interpretation or definition over the term “settlement negotiations”. Even though ArawakX’s offer was rejected by

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Arawak port beats profit target by 18% By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net NASSAU’S main commercial shipping port yesterday revealed it beat its full-year profits target for 2023 by some 17.7 percent or more than $1.4m compared to original forecasts. Arawak Port Development Company (APD), the BISX-listed owner and operator of Nassau Container Port, revealed in its audited financial statements that net and comprehensive income for the 12 months to endJune 2023 stood at $9.687m compared to budget projections of $8.226m.

The company, in which both the Government and shipping industry have matching 40 percent equity ownership stakes, generated a 30.6 percent year-over-year net income increase with the bottom line expanding by more than $2.5m compared to the prior year’s figures. APD’s net income rise was largely driven by total revenues, which also beat budget forecasts by 17 percent, jumping from a projected $30.619m when the company’s 2022 annual report was unveiled last November to $35.838m - a figure more than $5m ahead of target. On a year-over-year basis, total revenues rose by 19.6 percent or almost

$6m compared to the $29.96m produced for the 12 months to end-June 2022. APD is likely to have benefited from the economy’s continued postCOVID reflation, as well as ongoing import volumes related to construction projects such as the US embassy and Nassau Cruise Port during the last financial year. Total expenses, meanwhile, rose by 15.4 percent year-over-year to reach $17.161m compared to $14.867m - a rate of increase that was below revenue growth. APD has also unveiled tariff increases for clients needing to use a second crane, which are set to take effect on December 1, 2023,

KFC industrial action halt with ‘historic’ deal t 6OJPO DIJFG IBJMT AGPVS QBZ SJTF TUSVDUVSF t 'BTU GPPE PQFSBUPS EPVCMFT MVNQ TVN PGGFS t $BMM GPS QSPEVDUJWJUZ UP NBUDI TDBMF PG SJTF

Bank denies ArawakX settlement negotiations By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

PHILIP DAVIS KC

and more than double the existing rate for the first two hours from $800 to $2,000. Thereafter, the rate will be $1,000 per hour or $250 for every 15 minutes. Second crane overtime charges will jump from $450 per hour to $750 per hour, a 66.7 percent increase, with the overtime rate for Sundays and public holidays doubling from $500 per hour to $1,000 per hour. “In an effort to continue to meet customer demand and address cost increases, the Nassau Container Port announces a general tariff rate increase with an effective date of December 1, 2023,” APD said in

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By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net INDUSTRIAL action by Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) staff has ceased, it was confirmed last night, after the franchise agreed to an “historic” deal that will more than double the lump sum payment initially offered. Darrin Woods, the Bahamas Hotel, Catering and Allied Workers Union’s (BHCAWU) president, told Tribune Business that the proposed industrial agreement - which is now being scrutinised by both sides’ legal teams - will give line workers “around” a 40 percent pay rise over the five-year term with increases in four of those years. Voicing optimism that the deal could be signed as early as the week of November 15, and “definitely” before month’s end, he added that the fast-food operator had also significantly improved the lump

DARRIN WOODS sum payment offer that had provoked last week’s ‘go slow’ and ‘work to rule’. Mr Woods, though, told this newspaper that the union called on its members to cease industrial action late last week after KFC and its operating parent, Restaurants (Bahamas), which is part of the Myers Group, accepted the BHCAWU’s counter-proposal. The union had previously vehemently objected to what it said was an $800 lump sum offer, representing $100 for each of the

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