We Honor The Cuban Fishermen, whose Journeys to Ragged Island and Beyond are Foundational Tales of Caribbean Solidarity

Reflection on The Intertwined Destinies of The Bahamas and Cuba 

The Shared History of Cuba and The Bahamas

Cuba and Ragged Island: A Fascinating History, Saluting Fishermen and Fruitful Exchanges

By Dr. Kevin Turnquest-Alcena

Nassau, The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Our journey through the storied connections between The Bahamas and Cuba reveals a saga of endurance, exploration, and exchange, woven by the diligent Cuban fishermen. Their voyages transcended mere trade, fostering lasting friendships and cultural bonds that resonate to this day. We dive into this rich narrative, celebrating the shared history and unbreakable ties between these vibrant islands.

The Natural Connection: Limestone and Rich Soil

The Bahamas and Cuba are siblings of the sea, their lands cradled by limestone and nurtured by fertile soils. This geological kinship hints at a shared past and has sculpted both the landscape and the life it supports. Cuba's lush terrain complements The Bahamas' stunning shores, creating a diverse tapestry of ecosystems that enrich both regions. These natural blessings foster a unique blend of environments, where life thrives in harmony.

The Story of Camagüey and The Bahamas

In the heart of Cuba, Camagüey stands as a beacon of agricultural bounty, pivotal in the exchange of goods and culture with The Bahamas. This history of mutual benefit and shared growth showcases the power of community and cooperation across waters. Through the sharing of harvests and traditions, Camagüey and The Bahamas have woven a narrative of interdependence and resilience, celebrating the richness of combined cultures.

The Fishermen's Legacy

We honor the Cuban fishermen, whose journeys to Ragged Island and beyond are foundational tales of Caribbean solidarity. More than traders, these men were bridge-builders, connecting communities with every voyage. Their legacy, steeped in the spirit of unity and shared prosperity, has significantly shaped the Caribbean identity, reminding us of the enduring strength found in connection and shared purpose.

More Than Just Trading

The barter system initiated by these seafarers did more than exchange goods; it wove a fabric of interconnected lives, blending cultures, ideas, and families. This vibrant mosaic of exchanges has deeply influenced the Bahamian lifestyle, introducing a wealth of fruits and vegetables that enrich daily life. Celebrating this cultural fusion, we acknowledge the profound connections that have grown from these shared experiences.

A Link Through Time: The Cuban Crocodiles of Abaco

In the discovery of Cuban crocodile fossils in Abaco, we find a tangible link to a shared ancient past. This remarkable find not only highlights the biological ties between Cuba and The Bahamas, but also suggests deep, historical connections that predate modern exchanges. The presence of these ancient creatures in Bahamian soil speaks to a time when land and life flowed freely between these islands, adding a fascinating prelude to the story of Cuban and Bahamian unity.

Broadening the Horizon: From Mexico to Cuba and The Bahamas

The narrative broadens to include the pathways from Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula through Cuba to The Bahamas, tracing the routes of early exchanges. This expansive view enriches our understanding of the Caribbean's complex history, where land and sea routes facilitated not only the movement of goods - but also the spread of cultures and communities across this vibrant region.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the intertwined destinies of the Bahamas and Cuba, we celebrate the legacy of exchange and camaraderie that defines their relationship. Through tales of Camagüey, the valorous fishermen, and the ancient crocodiles of Abaco, we honor the spirit of cooperation that has forged indelible bonds across the Caribbean. This shared history, rich with lessons of unity and friendship, stands as a testament to the enduring power of collective heritage and mutual respect.

This article offers a gateway to the deep and vibrant history connecting Cuba and Ragged Island, paying homage to the fishermen and the complex web of exchanges that have brought our communities together, underscored by the ancient, ecological ties that bind.

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The Bahamas Immigration Minister Keith Bell resists United Nations - UN call to suspend deportations to Haiti as Haiti's crisis deepens

The Bahamas Immigration Minister Keith Bell resists UN call to suspend deportations to Haiti as situation spirals out of control

“Haiti has political instability, economic deprivation, and complete social collapse.  So you are talking about a myriad of challenges and problems.  That problem can only be addressed at the international level and so it isn’t a matter of frustration

DESPITE calls from United Nations officials to suspend deportations to Haiti, Immigration Minister Keith Bell said The Bahamas has “a job to do” to ensure that officials protect the country for Bahamians.

The Bahamas is facing an influx of Haitian migrants.  However, United Nations Secretary General António Gutierrez on Monday called on governments to consider halting deportations as the situation there spirals out of control

Speaking on the sideline of a Labour on the Campus event, Mr Bell recognised the duty of the secretary general, but made it clear what the government has to do.

“The United Nations obviously they seek to ensure that there is harmony, there’s unity among all nations, so obviously that is his job.  We in The Bahamas have a job to do to ensure that we protect The Bahamas for Bahamians.  It’s as simple as that.  The Bahamas as all governments have consistently said we cannot absorb these persons who come in The Bahamas illegally,” he said.

“If you want to come to The Bahamas as a tourist or want to work, then there is a process.  If you follow that process, you may be granted access to The Bahamas.

“If you come here illegally and unlawfully, then, of course, there has to be swift justice.  We will not tolerate, nor will we support reasonably anyone coming into The Bahamas from undocumented or illegal means you will stay in the jurisdiction you will be deported.”

He also shared doubts that The Bahamas would sign on to provisions allowing for free movement when asked about CARICOM’s freedom of movement or labour within the region.

“I know you’re talking about a treaty – I think the Treaty of Chaguaramas and the (free) movement of people through the Caribbean.  The government of The Bahamas, both PLP and FNM, has consistently not signed on to those specific provisions.  I do not foresee in the very far future that we’re going to support a free movement throughout this country of anyone.”

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the crisis in Haiti poses a substantial threat to The Bahamas due to an increase in irregular migration.

He spoke earlier this week at the opening session of the heads of summit meeting of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

During his remarks, Mr Davis stated: “With the support and leadership of Haiti, collectively, we can, through CELAC and other regional organisations, help Haitians build a path out of crisis.”

Asked if there was frustration with the international community over addressing Haiti’s issues, the labour minister listed some of the factors that needed to be considered when helping countries.

“I will not say it there is frustration and you would have seen all around the world where first world developed countries, superpowers go into these countries where they need help — where there is a genocide or there is this civil war and the like.  When you go into these countries you have to ensure first of all, what is your objective?  What are the objectives of you going in?  And what would be your exit strategy?

“Haiti has political instability, economic deprivation, and complete social collapse.  So you are talking about a myriad of challenges and problems.  That problem can only be addressed at the international level and so it isn’t a matter of frustration.

“It’s just a matter of how we’re going to address these issues and challenges and then determine how we can help, but Haiti has 12 million people, The Bahamas cannot under no circumstance, support any illegal and unlawful entry of persons from Haiti and that has extended to Cuba where we’ve had an exponential growth in illegal migrants coming from that country. We will not tolerate it.”

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MY TAKE ON EXPO 2020 DUBAI - THE BAHAMAS 2-DAY EVENT

The Bahamas at EXPO 2020 Dubai - Where poor planning and horrible communication reign supreme! 

By Wilfred Burrows III

A critique of the overall showing of The Bahamas at Dubai EXPO 2020

MY TAKE ON EXPO 2020 - THE BAHAMAS 2-DAY EVENT

Let me first preface this post by clearly stating the following;

1. If you are a staunch FNM or PLP supporter, this is not the post for you!

2. If you don’t like to read long (albeit informative and entertaining) posts, this is not the post for you!

3. This is MY OPINION based on my account of what I saw against the facts of what was presented to the public and my own individual research. If you have a problem with my opinion in general, well, this is not the post for you!

4. Lastly, and most importantly, my critique of the overall showing of the Bahamas at EXPO 2020 in no way intended to attack or negatively target the scores of Bahamian performers who went out there and did their best to represent their country. I am a Bahamian and a performer and I know what it means to give it your all on a stage, even when you feel like the world is against you. So I say before I even delve into my take on EXPO, kudos to all of the performers for giving it your all in the capacity in which you were able to function and present your talents.

That being said, let’s begin with my take on the Bahamian delegation and the presence of the Bahamas at large at Expo 2020.

The Bahamas at EXPO 2020 - Where poor planning and horrible communication reign supreme!

I must start by stating vehemently that communication was ABYSMAL in regards to EVERYTHING related to Expo 2020 and The Bahamas National Day celebrations. Nowhere to my knowledge on any of the government social media platforms did they ever publish a listing or schedule of the events for these two days nor was anything communicated officially until the day before on The Bahamas Expo 2020 page (information that was then changed at the last minute).

Thankfully, there were some members in The ‘Bahamians in Dubai’ WhatsApp group (that I lurk in now that I’m a resident...lol) who constantly sought out information as best as they could about what was happening. Because of this, a week or so ago, there was a flyer posted in the aforementioned group that invited persons to a ‘Mix and Mingle’ event, slated for the 16th of January (more about that soon), to which there were two numbers to RSVP to. I called both numbers and got no answer, and sent a WhatsApp text message to RSVP to which I got no reply. Fine, I figured. It may be a ‘just come and show up’ type of event.

Only on the actual day of the event, the 16th January, there was a schedule shared (again via the WhatsApp group only) outlining what would be taking place for the two days (this was before we were made aware of the posting on Tthe Bahamas Expo 2020 page). Was this official? ...accurate? ...who knew, but at least it was something!

Due to the fact that I only received the schedule on that day around noon and previously was only aware of the mix and mingle at 6pm, I did not catch the other items slated for that day. Per the schedule, there was to be a concert by Shaback (more on that later as well), a performance by the Bahamas All Stars - and a performance by Daisy productions (definitely more on that as well).

I have seen some footage of Shaback and Daisy on social media - but did not see any of the band. It is not clear whether or not they performed…this could be due to the rain (yes it rained in Dubai…lol) but who knows!

Old people always say, “there’s a time and a place’...well in my humble opinion as someone who has spent his entire life on and off the stage, studying and teaching the performing arts, this was not the time nor place for Shaback nor Ms. Daisy.

I love both acts, however Shaback was put at a disadvantage by whoever made the decision to allow them to represent the country in the setting of a show choir, because simply put, they are not. They are a gospel group, a good one at that, but a gospel group nonetheless.

There were other national choirs who have trained and performed internationally in the show choir setting (Bahamas National Youth Choir and the Grand Bahama National Youth Choir for example) who would have been better suited.

Furthermore, Mr. Clint Watson as Press Secretary to the OPM will hopefully learn after this debacle - that in the world of politics, sacrifices in your personal life must be made to ethically fulfill certain roles. There is no way one can think that it is acceptable for him in his dual role as Press Secretary and leader - and director of Shaback - to have them travel and represent the Government, furthermore with him front and center!

Whether they were a show choir or not, it is simply not appropriate. If Shaback, in future, is to represent the Government in any capacity on the Government’s dime, it is my humble opinion that he needs to resign as leader to allow them to do so without any conflict of interest.

I have not seen any footage of The Bahamas All-Stars to know if they even performed or not (as I know there was rain, so it is possible this could not have happened...again I do not know). So, I will not provide any commentary on that - as I have not heard anything and thus have nothing to speak on from a basis of fact.

MS. DAISY WAS JUST A NO ALL AROUND. Like cringeworthy no.

Like when you see the disaster but can’t look away no, all the while just feeling worse as it keeps going no. KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE BAHAMAS!

As I already mentioned, I love a good Dynamite Daisy production, and I believe Terez is a talented individual, however - that was not appropriate. Ms. Daisy portrays an intoxicated Christian that was on full display in a Muslim nation. Do the math on that one. I do not even feel like anything further needs to be said on that. It was just a bad decision, period.

Moving on…after figuring out where the Mix and Mingle actually was - and arriving there, there was no clear instruction as to what one was to actually do. My brother (who was with me) and I were simply asked ‘Bahamas?’ - to which we replied ‘yes’, and that was it.

No one seated us, told us what to do, offered us a drink…nothing. No guest book, photo booth, no form or fashion to even log who was in attendance. "You know what? Fine", I said.

Again, trying to be optimistic, we figured we’d walk the room and try to see if anyone knew what was going on. Everyone seemed just as lost as us, but as this event has two different start times (flyer and sign at venue said 6, WhatsApp memo said 7), I figured maybe at 7 it will start officially. That wasn’t the case - and the evening just seemed haphazard and ‘mix up worse dan conch salad’, as we Bahamians would say (guess they got the mix part correct).

The official government delegates arrived around 7:30pm (30 minutes or 1 hour and 30 minutes late, depending on which start time you were going with), and after the Prime Minister said a few words to a small portion of the venue that were in earshot, they were all ushered to a special VIP seating area where they mixed and mingled with themselves (them being The Bahamas Government delegation and some local Government personnel; the VIPs).

We then noticed other members of the entertainment and entourage delegation had arrived. It was at this point, shortly after 8pm, I decided that my civic duty to country had been achieved and my mission was accomplished.

To be as transparent as possible, there was an open bar, so to the drinkers, that was a plus. There were different offerings of beers, wines and spirits…no Bahamian beers unfortunately at the Bahamian event though.

However, they did have some weird version of gully wash that, of course - since The Bahamas is Nassau only these days, they labeled ‘sky juice’ (even though the entire Bahamas outside of Nassau refers to it by its true Bahamian name).

In terms of food, they had soup served in a cup. T’was tasty, but not authentically Bahamian. Other items served to me; pizza/bagel bites knock-offs, a weird lasagna, some coconut bread pudding pie type concoction, and questionable conch fritters. Not sure what the VIPs were served, but I hope it was something more authentic - and a bit more formal.

This event honestly was a dismal display of Bahamian culture and the pride - we normally have and showcase when hosting guests in our home. Whether those guests were intended to be Bahamian locals or not, much more could have been done without costing extreme amounts of money.

Could the appetizer selection not have been a bit more authentic? I believe I pictured 2 ‘Bahamian-looking’ chefs in the kitchen that night.

For instance, could they not have created the soup to have been a seafood chowder, or lobster bisque?...and why lasagna?...bagel bites?

Furthermore, why didn’t you bring boxes of peanut cake, benny cake, Mortimer’s candies and other Bahamian treats that could be easily packaged, safely preserved and transported with your delegation? This is something I have done organizing events myself on both a small and large scale, and something I grew up watching my mom - and other members of different international service organizations she was a part of do every time they traveled internationally to represent the country.

The hosts of this mix and mingle (whoever they were as the only thing we knew for sure was that it was sponsored by FTX Digital Markets, who seem to be giving the Government a lot these days, and I can't help but wonder what do they want in return, but that's another conversation for another time and again, I digress) literally wrapped cans of peanuts with a white piece of paper that simply said ‘The Bahamas’ on it.

Is this the best we can do with months of planning and over a million dollars of funds? Lastly (on the mix and mingle), why were there no local hosts directing persons, checking in on guests, playing ‘host’ to this event?

For a mix and mingle event, why was it not designed to mix and mingle? There weren’t even highboy tables to invite conversation to take place.

This whole thing was just bad!

A lot more could have been done from the initial planning stages to the final touches to involve the local Bahamian community. I have only been here living in Dubai for four (4) months, and during my lurking time in the locals group, I sensed the frustration and defeat many had who tried to offer assistance to both an FNM, and PLP government - to no avail. But I digress.

Well, as bad as the mix and mingle was it cannot hold a candle to the abomination that is the Bahamas Pavilion! Let me preface this by saying that there are different themed districts at Expo.

We are in the Sustainability District which first of all, we really have no business being in (in my opinion). While I am not privy to what the selection process was for zoning, for what is being marketed back at home as the purpose of EXPO 2020 to the greater Bahamian economy, the Opportunity District is really where we should’ve been.

But, again, I digress. Let’s talk about the actual pavilion for a second. First of all, the entrance door was locked, with no signage to point any visitor to the pavilion how to actually get inside. Actually, no, let’s backtrack a bit and talk about the actual outer decor of the pavilion.

The entire building is wrapped in images of Junkanoo that have ‘Bahamas Strong’ at the bottom. I mean, I love Junkanoo just as much as the next Bahamian, but is that really all we are?

When compared to other nations who have such vivid imagery as a part of their exterior…you know what…before I get there, let me finish walk you through this Bahamas Pavilion experience.

So, after we figure out that you indeed need to enter through the exit, we walk in the pavilion. No one gives us any direction as to what to see, where to go….so we just start roaming about on our own trying to figure it out.

The best way to describe the pavilion in my honest opinion is ‘unfinished; a work in progress’, which three months into EXPO is inexcusable. There is no clear overriding theme to the exhibit…just posters everywhere.

There is a faint attempt to address sustainability to some extent, but again, we missed the mark greatly. Really, what has been chosen to display in the pavilion is not cohesive at all - and not even close to being a true representation of not only Bahamian history, culture, and artistry, but how we are even working across our islands to be sustainable in the present, and plans for future sustainability across our industries and day-to-day operations as a nation.

There was no native music playing on Sunday when I visited. It was also dirty, with boxes about.

Monday, it was clean and there was some Bahamian music playing. You know what, by that time, I had come to the realization that I should just take the small victories where I could.

Anyway, back to Sunday and the initial walk through…we had images of some government leaders displayed with no names or labels for people to even know who they are. The flag on the wall was not even the correct color, and the sail on the sloop was upside down (on Monday I was able to mention this to the one Bahamian worker who was there and she was very nice, responsive and said she would pass the message on to a Michael Diggiss…not sure who he is or his capacity, but hopefully he fixes the sail).

We really missed the mark with the pavilion - and it is honestly embarrassing, especially when looking at what other nations with similar pavilion size, GDP, demographic and population ratio were able to do with their pavilions.

I’ll expand briefly on my last point and use St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They have one fourth (1/4) of our population and approximately one twelfth (1/12) of our GDP. Their booth was similar in size, if not smaller. However, with those limiting factors, it was clear and very apparent from the moment you entered their pavilion who they were, and what the purpose was behind the exhibitions on display.

There was a clearly defined country profile for persons who knew nothing about the island, information about its history, its progress, opportunities for investment and growth (as they were located in the Opportunity District) - and a very expansive set of local product offerings for sale. As the young people say, St. Vincent understood the assignment.

Let’s talk about Monday now as there are a lot more positives on this day. Well, due to the fact that I work here in Dubai and unfortunately for me was not able to travel on the Government’s dime, my work commitments did not allow me to see the Junkanoo rush out and Royal Bahamas Police Force Band presentations, however - I have heard nothing but rave reviews for both acts from multiple sources.

Again, these are seasoned acts so I expected nothing less and was able to breathe a huge sigh of relief - as it seemed day 2 of 2 was heading in the right direction. Again, I spoke too soon.

As I mentioned earlier, communication was just horrid, so thus, there were different times communicated as to the start of the national ceremony.

Most were under the impression that it was 3:15 and thus were in place at the Al Wasl Dome at the aforementioned time. Clearly, as we soon found out, this was not the time, and it was changed to 4:35pm.

Well, what can you do!?! So, we chatted as Bahamians do, and immediately, the hot topic of conversation was the disaster of the pavilion.

But I’ve said enough on that already. Moving forward, 4:35pm the delegation comes out for the flag raising. We start with the UAE flag and national anthem, followed by our flag and national anthem. A chunk of the national anthem was missing (much like this accounting of these funds will be I’m sure) - but we just kept it moving and sang the next section as the ‘CD skipped’...lol. Remarks, remarks, then the show.

Remarks were fine from both the UAE and Prime Minister Davis. There was a little glitch at the beginning of the PM’s speech, but one thing with the old school generation, they always have a paper copy on deck.

Kudos to Brave. He weathered it well and kept it moving. He seemed a bit nervous in his presentation to me, but it could’ve just been me. Most importantly, he spoke clearly, he was short and concise.

Now starts the show.

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…………

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Let’s just say I was underwhelmed. We had about ten (10) minutes of what felt like a last minute put-together journey of the Bahamas from the time of the Arawaks to present day.

Quite a bit of the ‘facts’ presented in the voice-overs were questionable. The group that was selected, not quite sure how they were (and we’ve already established that this is a theme a major issue with the delegation in general surrounding EXPO) - but they did their best with what they had.

It was clear to any veteran of the stage - that this was not something that was rehearsed for months. My biggest pet peeve was the ending of the short showcase where the dancers danced to pre-recorded Junkanoo music. Did we not have an entire Junkanoo group in Dubai at our disposal? Maybe I missed something.

Any-who, by 5pm it was over and everyone just left. So again, not knowing what was next, my brother and I after the events of the night before - decided we would go and get our own food before this Bahamian dinner at 6pm.

The Bahamian dinner was in fact not a Bahamian dinner at all, but just a hosted event at an EXPO restaurant with their regular food. No big deal for me personally at this point, because I was mentally prepared for this from yesterday. Where my anger grew immensely and my pressure rose to epic proportions was HERE AND NOW.

So based on both sets of agendas dispersed, there was to be a cultural show at 7pm in the Mobility District. Well, at 7pm there was no cultural show in the Mobility District and thus I was on the hunt for the show!

This was my highlight of this whole multi-million dollar 2 day delegation, and I was soooooo excited for the EXPO community to witness a Bahamian stage show, because if it’s ONE THING WE CAN DO, IS PUT ON A GOOD STAGE SHOW MUSICALLY!

Well, no one knew where it was. By no one, I mean all of the people employed by The Bahamas for EXPO who we saw.

So being the low-key Sherlock Holmes that I am, I went in full detective mode and was finally able to figure out - and then instruct the workers (who did not even know there was a show) where it was.

So, off I went with my brother in tow to find this show, which was in Jubilee Park, which is one of the huge stages for musical entertainment in EXPO.

WHEN I GOT THERE AND SAW THAT EMPTY LAWN, I WAS LIVID!

Clearly, this had not been communicated to the masses. Further, whoever planned this chain of events planned dinner during the cultural show, halfway across the EXPO site from each other.

WHY WOULD YOU PLAN FOR YOUR DELEGATION, VIP AND BAHAMIAN CITIZENS TO HAVE DINNER AT THE SAME TIME AS THE CULTURAL SHOW WOULD BE ON STAGE?!?!?!

Persons were eating away in the restaurant, and not even privy to the AMAZING SHOWCASE OF SOME BAHAMIAN MUSICAL TALENT on stage at that same moment. Let me be clear, THAT STAGE WAS ON FIRE!!!!

They commanded that stage and the audience, as few as they were, enjoyed the heck out of it! This was the most disappointing part of this 2-day rollercoaster for me (minus the pavilion of course).

The fact that no one even thought it necessary to have this closing act advertised for all to come and see. I was speechless. Still, I danced, sang, laughed and enjoyed my Bahamian people - and our music, and congratulated them with the loudest screams and cheers I could muster (after a full day’s work of course).

Alas, Bahamas at EXPO 2020 had come to an end.

Overall view???

While there were a few great moments, this was POORLY PLANNED AND EXECUTED. The FNM and the PLP Governments are equally to blame as they gave this no due care and attention and haphazardly slapped something together on the people’s dime.

There was no transparency and accountability as to how the selections were made for the acts. No counsel was sought from the key players in the Bahamian entertainment and culture fields; and it is already clear there will be many issues with accountability as it relates to the finances with this venture.

Let’s be very clear; I AM NOT SALTY. What I AM, is a proud BAHAMIAN who witnessed first hand how yet again, in 2022, WE ARE NOT IMPROVING AND DOING THE SAME OL BULL!

We need to really sit back and take stock - and be this change we keep promising every five (5) years. I will say this as I close; if the Government is ever serious about doing better, I am ready (as many other young, talented, educated Bahamians are) - and available to fulfill my civic duty to make this nation better.

If by some chance my Prime Minister sees or gets wind of this message, if the ‘New Day’ government wants to truly live up to its 2021 Election motto, I am praying that they use this experience as an opportunity to take stock and look at the many errors of their ways, and avoid excuses and simply DO BETTER. I guess only time will tell, and if nothing changes, I guess in four (4) years the FNM will be back in power and the cycle of ‘pot/kettle’ will continue.

Thank you for coming to my TED Talk.

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Wake-up My Bahamian People!

The Bahamas: A Perfect Financial Storm Brewing in Tourism Paradise

By Norman Trabulsy Jr.

The Bahamas is entering a period for which I see a Perfect Storm gathering, and this is unfortunate. A Perfect Storm comes about when a number of factors synergize to exacerbate what would otherwise be a mildly disruptive event. Although a number of other supporting realities strongly buttress my view, for the sake of brevity I will base my analysis and prediction of a Perfect Storm on the following.

Implementation of a value-added tax (VAT)

It does not take a Sherlock Holmes to figure out who owes hundreds of millions of dollars to the Bahamian government in uncollected property taxes. Value-added tax is being implemented because the government has failed in its job and been unable, or unwilling, to collect even half of the taxes it is owed. The VAT is a consumer-based and regressive tax, meaning that it hits the poorest the hardest.

The estimated revenue from the VAT assumes that the economy will remain roughly at its current level. I strongly suggest that the Bahamian economy will take a very hard hit for several years due to the high cost of VAT compliance, higher prices, fraud, and the overestimate of the tax revenues to be collected, causing the government to further tighten its belt, all contributing to a dangerous shrinking of the economy. This: before the risk of any hiccup in the tourism sector, which accounts for 80 percent of The Bahamas’ gross domestic product (GDP). It is rather naive to suggest that the tourism sector is immune to rising prices, when survey after survey show that the No. 1 complaint of tourists is high prices. Sun, sea and sand have a value, but there is a limit, and we are pushing it.

Legalization and proliferation of gambling web shops

In The Bahamas, a social epidemic of gambling appears to be a symptom of the larger desperation of being unable to make a decent living and provide for one’s family by holding an average job. But more on that later. I predict that the net effect of a proliferation gambling web shops will be a continued drain on the real economy and an increasing transfer of monies into the hands of web shop owners. The health of an economy is based on the amount of money that freely circulates within it. As more money leaves the real economy via the web shops, the net result is unarguable: a rapid and decisive transfer of wealth into the pockets of those who produce nothing.

A software designer for some of the web shops told me that, for every winner, there are 8,000 losers. Ponder these odds for a moment. I live on a small family island, and I have paid attention to this matter for nearly a decade. I cannot count the times Bahamians who do not gamble have said to me, “These web shops are going to take this country down.” Perhaps they say this because, like me, they have seen the dashed hopes, the unfinished houses, the children whose lunch moneys were squandered by their parents’ spinning, and the money leaving this small island on a weekly basis that could have gone to so many worthy causes and needs. The language should be more honest: gambling is not an industry, it is a Ponzi scheme, and it should be called what it is.

Downgrading of the credit worthiness of The Bahamas by Moody’s

Moody’s recently downgraded the credit worthiness of the Bahamas due to the unlikely probability that it will reduce its 50 percent debt-to-GDP ratio. We are unlikely to do this because for the past 10 years our country has only grown by six percent, and we continue to borrow more money. Moody’s rightfully wonders where the government will find the money to pay off its increasing debt. The prospects are bleak. I liken this situation to the following conversation. A friend comes to me and says, “You owe me $500 today.” I ask, “Why is that?” He answers, “Because 50 years ago your grandfather borrowed $500 from my grandfather and he said you would pay me the $500 your grandfather owed him.” Who doesn’t think this is absurd? Yet, what do the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and Free National Movement (FNM) do each year to the citizens of The Bahamas? How is this any less absurd than what our well-educated economists, politicians and lawyers are proposing to us today? When politicians take out these big loans, with interest, who winds up paying for them?

State of the global economy

Not enough honest people have spoken out about the implications of what the major players in the financial sector and government officials have been doing. Since the global financial crisis in 2008, the United States in particular, has pumped trillions of taxpayers dollars into the banks and financial institutions there and around the world, in an attempt to “save” the economy that was put in danger by, you guessed it, the banks and financial institutions. Soon the consequences of this policy will become yet more apparent in rising inflation, increasing inequality, and a greater impoverishment for most of humanity. Any prudent government would have, after assessing the crisis and its causes, broken up the largest of banks and nationalized those that had done the most harm to society.

The largest banks, financial institutions, and here in The Bahamas even the web shops, have completely captured our politicians and the political process. Consider the phrases: Too Big To Fail and Too Big to Jail. Justice has become lopsided and no longer applies to the rich and powerful. This is the reality today throughout the world, and it is contrary to any concept of democracy. The people of The Bahamas said “No” on the referendum regarding web shops. Yet, what did our Prime Minister do? Who do the politicians really work for? Does democracy exist in The Bahamas, or anywhere? Answer honestly. Now, what are you going to do about it?

Increasing poverty rate in The Bahamas

The realities about poverty in The Bahamas are probably worse than the government statistics suggest. For an indicator of the real state of our economy and the hurdles that must be overcome to change our course, speak to any social service worker. They will tell you that they are seeing an increasingly depressed, despondent and hopeless people who come for assistance. Yet the government is cutting back on social services to balance the budget, so that there will be even less resources to help the rising numbers of people who need them. The economic considerations are in themselves sufficient cause for concern, but it is also reasonable to expect that, as the poverty rate increases, the crime rate will increase, and public safety, the quality of life and tourism will decline.

Increasing emphasis on the “financial services industry”

The so-called financial services industry is the second largest contributor to the GDP of The Bahamas, after tourism. It is not an industry but a scheme to attract people who don’t want to pay taxes in their own countries and need a place to hide their money. The Bahamas levies no income tax, no corporate tax, no inheritance tax, no capital gains tax, and it seems that property taxes are very low and not collectable. The money to run the government comes, for the most part, from the working people of The Bahamas. The rich pay a minuscule percentage of their incomes to live in paradise: sort of like going to Disney World for free.

If the tax policies here in The Bahamas actually created an incentive for investment, an improvement in the job market, and a healthy economy, wouldn’t there be better results after all these decades of such policies? Instead, our politicians, lawyers, bankers, the financial services representatives, all of them, have become beholden to big money. Who, in their right mind, can possibly say that things here and around the world are going well and that the future looks bright for most of the world’s people? The “financial services industry” produces little to improve the lives of ordinary people. There is no reason to give the rich a free ride in this country; the benefits of living here are too great to be given away for free. I say: make them pay their fair share. The Bahamian people need to stand up and call for these changes, because not one person in the government has the guts to tell it like it is.

Aspiration to join free-trade organizations

Generally speaking, free trade in today’s world is a way for transnational companies to subvert a county’s legal system and destroy its sovereignty. The result of almost every modern free-trade agreement has been the destruction of a country’s agricultural and manufacturing base and its replacement by highly subsidized foreign corporate ownership, gutting of environmental laws and crushing of organized labor. Any complaints and lawsuits must now be handled by an extra-judicial group of corporate lawyers with loyalties to big business. This idea of The Bahamas joining these free-trade agreements will only further the interests of those businessmen, lawyers and politicians who are pushing them. They will not help the tourist economy or manufacturing economy of The Bahamas or create more and better jobs for Bahamians. These issues must be known to the Bahamian people before our politicians sell this country out from under our feet.

Lack of leadership

Anyone old enough to remember, or who has gone to YouTube to hear, the words of Martin Luther King Jr. understands that we have no statesmen in this world today. Do not be duped by the words of the first African-American US President. He is not even worthy to stand in the shadows of MLK Jr. Listen to the words of our own politicians in The Bahamas: mere words, poisonous words, for they are meant to trick us into believing that they have our interests in mind. Nowhere in the world is there a leader with the integrity, honesty, courage and fortitude required to govern. Each and every one is beholden to the moneyed interests in the world today. I have heard the expression, “We get the government we deserve.” If this is true, I am saddened by where we are as a people. If we can rise up, and create a better society, it is time to do so. Let us get rid of the charlatans, the spineless, the greedy, the dishonest and egotistical excuses for public servants that we now have. This isn’t about one political party or another. Wake up people! I believe we are staring a Perfect Storm in the face. It is up to us to do something for ourselves to avoid the impending crisis.

Editor’s Notes: Norman Trabulsy Jr. is an expecting father, restauranteur, sailor, captain, carpenter and naturalist living in The Bahamas. His writing generally focuses on environmental issues concerning tropical marine ecosystems and economics.

Photographs one, four and nine by Thomas Hawk; two, five and fourteen by Albyan Toniazzi; three and ten by Susan; seven and thirteen by Bruce Tuten; eleven and twelve by Shutter Runner; six by Jordon Cooper, and eight from the IMF archives.

Oct 13, 2014

News Junkie Post

Sir Arthur Foulkes: A Father and Founder of the Bahamian Nation

Sir Arthur Foulkes: A Father of the Nation at the 40th

By Simon

A moving and fitting prelude to midnight on the 40th anniversary of independence would be a group of young Bahamians reciting the Preamble to the Constitution which begins: “Whereas four hundred and eighty-one years ago the rediscovery of this family of islands, rocks and cays heralded the rebirth of the New World”.

Many of us are familiar with the poetic relish which introduces the supreme law of the land, a statement of our democratic convictions, inclusive of a charter of freedoms and rights.

There will be one personage even more familiar with the Preamble and the document it introduces. Sir Arthur Foulkes, the eighth Bahamian governor general, drafted the original preamble for the 1969 Constitution.

Though modified for inclusion in the independence Constitution, the heart and thrust of the Preamble flowed from the imagination of one of the modern Bahamas’ more prolific scribes.

School children in the U.S. read about that nation’s founders and constitutional fathers, admiring and honoring them through film, statues and folklore.

In Sir Arthur, the nation enjoys a living father and founder. That he is head of state at the 40th anniversary of independence is a happy and extraordinary privilege for the nation. Other than Arthur D. Hanna, there is no other living Bahamian more suited to preside over our independence celebrations.

When the tricolor gold, black and aquamarine flag is raised against the backdrop of the near midnight sky at Clifford Park next week, invoking independence eve 40 years ago, Sir Arthur will rightly preside.

Flourished

Though one may only guess at the thoughts and emotions that will fill his heart and mind, history will be smiling with him, and the sovereign, democratic and free commonwealth of which he helped to give birth and stability. The nation, like Sir Arthur, has more than survived. Both have flourished.

Born at the farthest end of the archipelago in Mathew Town, Inagua, Sir Arthur’s Bahamian vision encompassed racial, social and economic equality for all Bahamians. He remains a central figure and an icon of the struggle for majority rule and independence.

He was a founding member of the National Committee for Positive Action, an internal pressure group which proved pivotal in the struggle, radicalizing a sometimes cautious PLP.

As early as 1959 the committee held a debate on independence. The NCPA is a case history in political organizing, with no similar group as successful in modern Bahamian history.

Sir Arthur was one the movement’s key strategic thinkers, and certainly its best wordsmith, penning much of the poetry and prose which moved a people and instructed colonialists and others of the rightness and urgency of the cause of freedom in The Bahamas.

With a body of work that includes a career in journalism, memorable speeches – his own and many he wrote for others – as well as half a century as a columnist, Sir Arthur has been one of the country’s leading public intellectuals. In his commitment to social justice and his elegance as a writer he is our Bahamian José Martí.

His body of writing is expansive and his was a familiar and eloquent voice on political platforms throughout the archipelago. He was the driving force behind and editor of Bahamian Times, an indispensable tool in the struggle for racial and social equality.

With the help of a few faithful volunteers including George A. Smith, another surviving constitutional father, Sir Arthur produced the weekly from 1963 until 1967. The newspaper’s office on Wulff Road was a forum for political activists.

Sir Arthur’s prose extended to national documents which also gave voice to freedom’s call. He helped the PLP prepare its contributions for the 1964 Constitution. During his participation in the 1972 independence constitutional talks in London, he and the opposition FNM pressed the case for full equality for women, which the PLP resolutely opposed.

Turmoil

With the Colony of The Bahamas in turmoil because of rising expectations of democratic freedoms amidst the suppression of the aspirations of the majority, the PLP, urged on by the NCPA, heightened its political activity, using nonviolent direct action.

To protest against the UBP’s stubborn refusal to create fair electoral boundaries a three-part strategy included: the events of Black Tuesday, a boycott of the House of Assembly, and a petition to the U.N.’s Committee of 24, the committee on decolonization.

The petition was a comprehensive plea to the U.N. about the dire state of affairs in the colony, and the collusion between the white oligarchy and the British government to lock the majority out of political and economic power.

Designed to embarrass the British government into acting, the petition covered matters ranging from the lack of labor laws to insidiously unfair boundary arrangements.

Others like Warren Levarity, Jeffrey Thompson and Simeon Bowe contributed to the effort but it was left to Sir Arthur Foulkes to pen the final document. It was described by a U.N. official as one the best ever presented to the committee.

As an aside, it speaks to the character of Sir Arthur that he was able to vigorously oppose U.K. colonial rule, and yet serve graciously and with no malice towards the British as high commissioner to the Court of St. James, eventually becoming the Queen’s representative.

All heroes and heroines have clay feet. Yet there is a genius or courage in them which inspires in their fellow citizens a desire to memorialize the marbled stature and singular contribution of such heroes.

Nelson Mandela’s 27 years imprisonment on Robben Island, his endurance, along with that of other freedom fighters was the ground of sacrifice in which democracy took root and from which it sprang in South Africa.

Freedom fighters like Sir Cecil Wallace-Whitfield and Sir Arthur bent the arc of freedom here at home, enduring much to help secure Bahamian democracy. As PLPs they labored for racial equality, helping to form the first majority rule government in 1967.

Bigger

For Sir Cecil and Sir Arthur, freedom’s cause was bigger than a single party or personality, indeed the two men often went their separate ways. Yet, they enjoyed a singular democratic conviction.

In the eventuality, they quickly left the comforts of power for the slog of opposition, which endured for a quarter of a century, as the powers that be sought to destroy them with unyielding and vicious tactics.

Alarmed at the early autocratic inclinations of Sir Lynden, the cult of personality being created around him, broken promises and the abandonment of collegiality, Sir Cecil, Sir Arthur and six fellow dissidents broke from their political home to provide others in the movement with a new home from which to realize the values and ideas of the broader movement for social justice.

Their brave actions ensured a vibrant two-party system. The FNM helped save Bahamian democracy. Both Sir Lynden Pindling and Arthur Hanna often stated that few sacrificed more for the movement than Sir Arthur.

Sir Cecil died before the FNM’s election to office in 1992. Twenty-one years later Sir Arthur is still flourishing. Having pledged his governor generalship to the youth of the commonwealth he has performed in office with vigor and dignity.

Having been at home in both major political parties, he counts friends in both. The beauty of our system and a pride of 40 years of independence is that we have a PLP government and a governor general appointed on the recommendation of an FNM administration. This is not bipartisanship. This is nonpartisanship.

By personality and by democratic conviction, Sir Arthur pledged to represent all Bahamians. He has done so gracefully, and with no hint of partisanship. He is beloved by FNMs and PLPs alike. He is a true symbol of unity.

Sir Arthur’s Bahamian journey represents the best of the Bahamian spirit, and the enduring struggle for what is essentially good about us as a people.

Even as we recall our failings as a nation, there is much to celebrate. This is certainly Sir Arthur’s conviction. He should know. He knows whence we came, and delights in the possibilities of current and future generations.

To have Sir Arthur as a father of the nation at the 40th is more than a privilege. His presence, and his vigilance as a fellow citizen pay testimony and witness to a history of struggle and transcendence by a proud people committed to equality and freedom. It is a history worthy of celebration and emulation.

July 04, 2013

thenassauguardian

Bahamas Blog International

Burning Issues in The Bahamas which require Bahamian Leadership Attention and Action

People Power Needed To Tackle Burning Issues

By PAUL THOMPSON

Fmr Asst Commissioner of Police - RBPF

Nassau, The Bahamas



IT is my love for this country, which has been home to me for the past 62 years, that encourages me to continue to write about some of the issues and offer ideas and some simple solutions.

 

The Bahamian people gave me the opportunity to be educated in many police schools overseas, and it was discussion with my colleagues from other countries that made me able to provide ideas to be considered for solving some of our country’s problems.

 

There are persons who think of my writings as politically motivated, which is not true. Both governments of the Bahamas have been recipients of unsolicited advice and ideas. Response was rarely received.

 

It is my opinion that the Bahamian people must prevail upon their elected representatives to deal with all of the issues affecting the country and to heed the advice being given by many of us who reside here.

 

The shanty towns are a major part of the illegal immigration problem, in particular as it relates to Haitian nationals. Any person listening to the media discussion of the government appointed committee’s report on shanty towns must register their concerns with their parliamentary representative and implore that immediate action be taken to rid our country of this destructive menace.

 

It is evident that the law is being flagrantly contravened – the liquor shops and food stores within the shanty towns; the availability of clothing, dry goods, and medicines for sale; and most frightening, the health hazards to which we are exposed.

 

The medical report on the shanty towns is scary. The immediate solution is to instruct the law enforcement agencies to give notice to the residents to move by a specified date, after which officers will move in with bulldozers. It would be ideal for immigration officers to check the permits of the residents.

 

Prosecution of owners or landlords could come later.

 

We should not wait until there is an epidemic or an incident on the scale of the disaster at Mayaguana Airport to move to correct this dangerous situation.

 

Over the years there have been many other suggestions made to governments which appear to have been ignored.

 

Following is a list of some of those suggestions, which the public may wish to discuss with their representatives.

 

• Prohibit smoking in public places

 

Doctors in the Bahamas are aware of the dangers of smoking. Some of them wrote to successive governments, but their suggestions appear to have been ignored. I presented a copy of the Act from Trinidad and Tobago to a Minister of Health with my suggestions. No response. Smoking in public places continues.

 

• Mandatory Breathalyser testing

 

Again, a copy of the relevant Act from Trinidad and Tobacco was sent to two ministers of government with my suggestions. The Act, which became law in T&T two years ago, has been effective in reducing the incidence of accidents caused by drunk driving.

 

The police’s ability to detect drunk drivers has been improved. In the event of accidents, drivers have to take the test at the scene. Just recently a junior minister in the Ministry of National Security in T&T was arrested for his refusal to take the test and was later removed from the Cabinet by the Prime Minister.

 

• Public transportation system

 

It is long overdue. I have written to governments about the need to have public transportation administered by a Public Transport Corporation organised and controlled by the government, with bus owners as shareholders and members of a government board.

 

I suggested that government officials visit Barbados and Bermuda and examine their systems. Both governments have been advised of this need.

 

Such a corporation would provide for timely schedules covering all parts of the island, uniformed drivers, monthly and weekly ticketing, with transfer tickets and everything else that goes with an efficient and effective system. It could only be done under the administration and scrutiny of a government corporation.

 

• The environment

 

After decades of majority rule and 40 years of independence, outdoor toilets should be non-existent. The landlords, not the government, should be responsible for installing the required sewerage systems as a criteria for the rental of the premises.

 

New Providence is presently a dump or junkyard for abandoned or derelict vehicles. Just take a drive through Bain and Grants Town and see the rodents that live and breed in those abandoned vehicles. It is unhealthy and nasty.

 

In the old days the police submitted monthly reports on derelict vehicles to the Public Works Department. The latter wrote to the owners demanding removal, or the department removed the vehicles and submitted the bill to the owners. Failure to pay resulted in civil action in the courts.

 

One of the causes of the new situation in the prevalence of roadside and front yard garages.

 

I was an ex-officio member of a committee representing the Police Department, which presented a report providing information on the location of every such garage on the island, the name and address of each operator; and the condition of each location as it related to derelict, abandoned and other vehicles parked on the streets that were an obstruction to the free movement of traffic or otherwise affected the area.

 

We recommended that the laws relating to town planning be enforced to have all garages removed; we said Town Planning should issue letters – which the police volunteered to deliver by hand – demanding that these garages cease operations immediately.

 

The committee recommended that the government provide land in the Industrial Park and build a large open warehouse type building with adequate parking and lighting to accommodate the garages. This was to be done before the service of the Town Planning letters.

 

Minister Loftus Roker was quite happy with the report and the recommendations. But he was removed to another ministry before implementation and the matter was not heard of anymore. It was just prior to a general election.

 

• Illegal immigration and terrorism

 

Many recommendations have been made to governments on this subject. A paper was done by me and hand delivered to all members of parliament in 2008, with recommendations for consideration – including lookout points around New Providence to be manned by Defence Force personnel equipped with effective night vision; the presence of Defence Force and police patrol craft in the harbour when cruise ships are here; a detention centre in Inagua to reduce the cost of returning illegal immigrants to Haiti by plane instead of by boat; intensive investigations to identify the captain and crews on the boats carrying illegal immigrants for prosecution and imprisonment at Fox Hill Prison; the fingerprinting and photographing of all illegal immigrants and the keeping of records on them. Should they try to return, there must be court action and punishment and imprisonment, not detention and repatriation.

 

I often remind the public that after the earthquake in Haiti it was reported that at least 350 dangerous criminals escaped.

 

I was reliably informed that the circulation of fingerprints and photographs was non-existent, even through Interpol.

 

We do not know how many of them came here. They were described as being political prisoners, gunmen and rapists.

 

I do not know what efforts have been made to get the required information, if it is available. I usually describe the young thugs involved in the current wave of criminality as terrorists.

 

Terrorists’ goals, at least two of them, are: (a) to create fear, (b) to destroy the economy.

 

The police need our help, but more than that they need the help of the government to deal NOW with the invasion of illegal immigrants, many of whom are involved in crimes such as drug trafficking, gun running and car stealing.

 

• Tracing and Forfeiture Act, 1987

 

As far as I am aware activity in this area of the law is dormant. This law was designed to give law enforcement agencies, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the Attorney General’s Office the authority to target the assets of drug barons, drug dealers and drug traffickers. The assets of all such persons convicted of major drug offences here or abroad are subject to investigation and seizure by the courts.

 

Investigators are provided with a lot of authority by the Act. We have scores of drug barons, drug dealers and drug traffickers convicted in the Bahamas or overseas. Many of them are non-Bahamians.

 

I have not seen any action being taken to confiscate their assets. There are millions of dollars that could be targeted.

 

There appears to be no effort being made in this area of law.

 

• Technology for police control centres and mobile patrols

 

This is technology that I have been recommending for decades. A contract was signed between the former government and Motorola to provide the technology here.

 

All police forces are working towards what is called “Quick response.” Commissioners Bonaby, Farquharson and Greenslade were all aware of what could be accomplished when the police can respond to the scene of a crime and call for help or information about suspected criminal activity.

 

It is common knowledge that when police respond promptly, it is more likely that criminals will be found at or near the scene, which results in immediate arrests, or arrests shortly thereafter.

 

It is also good for public relations as it reduces fear.

 

I have been monitoring and getting information with regards to arrests made on the scene of a crime. Very often it depends on the arrival of the police within three to five minutes of receiving the call.

 

The Motorola system for which the contract was signed by the last government would provide the following to the police:

 

• The controller in the police control centre – through the implementation of GPS in all police vehicles and an electronic map of New Providence in the control centre – would be aware at all times of the exact location of police vehicles on the streets of New Providence. Upon receipt of a call for help, he will know which police vehicle is nearest to the scene of the incidents and deploy that car to proceed there immediately.

 

He would also know which other cars are in the area in the event that there is the need for back-up or a road block.

 

• The controller would be able to allow the crew of the patrol car to listen to the conversation he is having with the caller. The crew would get valuable information including descriptions of suspects, vehicles, et cetera. They will be aware of the details of the incident on the way to the scene.

 

• The misuse of police vehicles would be eradicated. The controller will be aware of any vehicle leaving the patrol area.

 

• There could be a reduction in fuel consumption as patrol cars could park in different locations during the patrol instead of moving constantly.

 

The chiefs of police in Detroit and Chicago invited police officers on our cricket team, who were visiting those cities, to see the system at work.

 

I implore the public to ask their members of parliament about the implementation of this system.

 

• Indoor range

 

Providing an indoor range for use by all law enforcement agencies to be trained and for practice in the use of revolvers and shotguns would be an asset. I sent information with all the specifics that I obtained from the FBI and a Dade County law enforcement agency to the Ministry of National Security some years ago. I even described locations close to Police Headquarters that could be used.

 

I suggested that help be sought from the private sector for the financing. In addition to law enforcement using the facility, persons applying for shotgun and rifle licences could be made to qualify at a price.

 

In Trinidad and Tobago, the indoor ranges are owned by former law enforcement officers who invested in them and got long term government contracts for the training and use by law enforcement agencies.

 

Most of the officers attending the ranges do so on their own time. Police officers who use them have shot in the Olympic Games.

 

May 27, 2013

 

Tribune 242

 

Bahamas Blog International