Sunday, May 31
Defence Force investigating video
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) says it is aware of video and audio messages circulating on social media said to be of newly promoted RBDF Marines, amongst others, ignoring COVID-19 assembling protocols.
SUNDAY UPDATE: No new confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that there are no new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
'No justice, no peace': Protests resume in NYC for 4th day
NEW YORK (AP) — New York City officials were looking for a peaceful way forward as the city entered a fourth day of protests against police brutality that have left police cars burned, and led to the arrest of hundreds of people.
UPDATED: SpaceX's historic encore – Astronauts arrive at space station
SUNDAY UPDATE (AP): SpaceX delivered two astronauts to the International Space Station for NASA on Sunday, following up a historic liftoff with an equally smooth docking in yet another first for Elon Musk’s company.
Saturday, May 30
Protesters converge on White House for second straight day
WASHINGTON (AP) — Shouting "Black Lives Matter" and "I can't breathe," hundreds of people converged on the White House for a second straight day Saturday to protest the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and President Donald Trump's response.
Woman robbed of truck on East Bay Street
Police are searching for three men after an armed robbery early on Friday evening.
SATURDAY UPDATE: No new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there are no new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Friday, May 29
Ministry remembers Alrae Ramsey and Dr Blair John on anniversary of disappearance
THE one year anniversary of the disappearance of Alrae Ramsey and Dr Blair John in Italy was marked on Friday.
Man killed, 10-year-old girl among injured in shooting
A MAN is dead and a ten-year-old girl is in critical condition after a shooting on Friday in Bel Air Estate. Two other people were injured in the incident - one from gunshot wounds and the other from injuries suffered while trying to escape.
Road works at Milo Butler Highway, Tonique Williams Darling Highway junction
THE junction at the Milo Butler Highway and Tonique Williams Darling Highway will be closed from Saturday, May 30, to Sunday, May 31, from 7am to 7pm for road works.
Woman injured in daylight shooting
A WOMAN is in hospital after being shot in broad daylight on Thursday.
Man violated curfew 'to take aunt for dialysis treatment'
A MAN who claimed he violated the national curfew because he was trying to take his aunt to the Princess Margaret Hospital for her dialysis treatment was fined $400 on Friday.
Arawak Cay, Potter's Cay vendors anxious to resume operations
VENDORS at Arawak Cay and Potter’s Cay Dock say they are anxious to resume operations and are hoping to be given the “green light” soon to conduct business as it’s “unfair” that more businesses are allowed to operate, while their establishments remain closed.
GBPA donation helps restore Grand Bahama public library
THE only public lending library on Grand Bahama is undergoing restoration after being severely damaged by Dorian, thanks to more than $250,000 from the Grand Bahama Port Authority.
Landlord pleads guilty to threatening to harm tenant
A LANDLORD who threatened to harm a tenant who refused to comply with his eviction orders was charged in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday
Man charged with assaulting police officer
A 37-year-old man was charged in the Magistrate’s court on Friday with assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest.
Rotary clubs give helping hand to children displaced by Dorian
CHILDREN displaced by Hurricane Dorian from Abaco and Grand Bahama have been given a helping hand by the Rotary clubs of The Bahamas.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Add his name to the list - George Floyd, another victim of American racism which won’t go away
The statistics have been there all along. You can read them if you have the courage to digest. You can study the charts, hot spots, numbers, watch the nightly news, gasp at coverage and go about the rest of the evening as if nothing changed if you have a mind to.
WORLD VIEW: Salute the 'CARICOM Three' for their sacrifice
HERE are three heroes of democracy in the 15-nation Caribbean Community (CARICOM): Cynthia Barrow-Giles (St Lucia/Barbados), John Jarvis (Antigua and Barbuda) and Sylvester King (St. Vincent and the Grenadines). Their names must not be forgotten.
$1k fine juror told to pay for missing part of a trial is dismissed
THE Court of Appeal has quashed a $1,000 fine a juror was ordered to pay after he failed to attend all of the hearings of a criminal trial in the Supreme Court held earlier this year. Walcott Miller was sworn as a juror in a murder trial which comme
PLP can't support lockdown extension, says Davis
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said he cannot support the government’s extension of the COVID-19 state of emergency in its current form. Giving a contribution as the House of Assembly debated a resolution extending the state o
Govt won't intervene in rent disputes
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said the government does not plan to intervene in and settle disputes between landlords and tenants who qualify for the COVID-19 rental assistance programme. On April 27, Prime Minister D
Churches opening up
THE Bahamas Christian Council expressed pleasure yesterday at relaxed protocols that allow sanctuary worship beginning next month, stressing churches are capable of enforcing COVID-19 social distancing and proper hygiene protocols. Yesterday, Prime
Inland Revenue urged: Probe $68m 'tax gap'
The government’s financial watchdog has urged the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) to be more aggressive in probing discrepancies of up to $68m between a company’s VAT and business licence fee turnover. The auditor-general’s report for the 2016-20
PM puts web shops in 'dice roll' dilemma
Two Bahamian web shop operators must now “roll the dice” on whether to proceed with their legal action against the Prime Minister after he re-opened the industry less than 24 hours after its filing.Wayne Munroe QC, the attorney for Paradise Games and
Taxation out even if no recovery by end-2021
The government yesterday ruled out new and/or increased taxes to cure its fiscal woes even if the Bahamian economy has failed to recover from COVID-19 by winter 2021. K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, speaking at a post-budget press conferen
DPM: GB airport will be restored 'to former glory'
The deputy prime minister yesterday pledged that the government is still committed to acquiring Grand Bahama International Airport and “restoring it to its former glory”.K Peter Turnquest, speaking at a post-Budget press conference, said the Minnis a
Shoppers urged: 'Rebuild country from within'
Bahamians were yesterday urged to “rebuild our country from within” and “think twice” about spending money abroad as the prime minister gave the go-ahead for the retail sector’s full re-opening.Egan Kemp, president of Eunison Company, the Shoe Depot
Man who drinks 'a lot' is fined after passing out
A MAN who claimed he violated the national curfew because he passed out while trying to walk home from the bar was fined $400 yesterday. He was among several people who appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes for curfew and lockdown vi
$700k awarded to SMEs hit by Dorian
MORE than $700,000 in grants are being awarded to over 70 small and medium-sized businesses on Grand Bahama that were affected by Dorian. The RISE Economic Recovery Grant Programme is awarding $725,000 in funding to 76 businesses to help with their
Pair plead guilty on drugs charge
TWO men were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for dangerous drug possession after officers found a quantity of Indian hemp at their respective homes. Navada Nairn, 43, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after officers fou
WE’RE NOT QUITE DONE YET, FOLKS: Major steps forward in easing emergency but lockdowns remain
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday the country has officially moved into Phase Three of the government’s reopening plan, reducing the national curfew and allowing non-essential storefront businesses to open with essential staff.
Dr Sands to continue to serve as physician
FORMER Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands said he will continue to serve the country as a physician in public and private practice while providing help where needed in his capacity to aid in the COVID-19 fight.
Threats to PM probed by police
POLICE are investigating a video of an Abaco man who made threats against the Prime Minister and the MP for Central and South Abaco, according to Minister of National Security Marvin Dames.
Families warned over killer toads
THE MINISTRY of Environment is doing an inspection after reports surfaced on social media of an invasive and toxic species of toad reappearing on Bahamian soil.
‘Deficit will not lead to new taxes’
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said the government does not anticipate a need for new taxes when the economy recovers from the COVID-19 crisis.
Elderly woman raped at home
AN elderly woman was raped in her home by a male assailant Wednesday night, police said.
Cancer Society appealing for donations as events called off
THE Cancer Society of The Bahamas is appealing for donations to continue its operations and outreach after the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Dorian prompted the cancellation of major fundraising events.
That was a Budget? Not in my book
The National Budget presented in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, 27th instant, by the Minister of Finance, was nothing short of a document that is not worthy of being referred to as a Budget.
Olympic hopeful has ‘Charisma’
She’s looking to become one of the next Bahamian Olympians, but the multi-talented Charisma Taylor will have to decide whether she will do it in the triple jump, the high hurdles or in both events.
MLB clubs decide on payments to players
AS the uncertainty around Major League Baseball and its minor league affiliates continues, several MLB clubs have made their decision on whether to halt or continue payments to players in their farm systems.
Kemp, Wilson named NCAA Div. II All-Americans
SHYRONE Kemp and Jahmaal Wilson were named NCAA Division II All-Americans by the US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) for their standout indoor seasons prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beauty salons hopeful of re-open by end-June
Barbers and beauty salons yesterday voiced optimism that the government may allow them to re-open before end-June even though several operators have already decided to close permanently. Dellarese Taylor, the Bahamian Cosmetologists and Barbers Asso
Financial provider hails budget tax rise rejection
A Bahamian financial provider has praised the government for rejecting new or increased taxes in the 2020-2021 budget, branding its fiscal strategy as “very bold, creative, inclusive and collaborative”. Robert Pantry, pictured , Simplified Lending’s
Microsoft partners with Bahamian founded non-profit for social impact webinar
A Bahamian-founded non-profit, HAP, is organising a high level impact webinar in conjunction with Microsoft to collaborate and share thoughts on a world disrupted by COVID-19. Eager to further the conversation on surviving and thriving post a pandemi
Colina in $2.3m loss as COVID-19 bites
A BISX-listed life and health insurer yesterday disclosed that ordinary shareholders suffered a $2.3m net loss for the 2020 first quarter as COVID-19’s economic impact started to bite. Colina Holdings Bahamas, the parent company for Colina Insurance
Challenges remain as retailers re-open
Bahamian retailers yesterday warned that significant challenges remain despite the Prime Minister giving the go-ahead for “non-essential” stores to re-open following the Whit Monday holiday. While relieved that they can resume in-store operations be
High property transaction costs hit competitiveness
A Bahamas-based contractor yesterday said the construction industry can mount a “110 percent recovery” from COVID-19 as he warned that high real estate transaction costs were making this nation uncompetitive. Costa Berdanis, Tarcon Construction’s pr
Thursday, May 28
Two suspects arrested
TWO male suspects who allegedly robbed a couple at gunpoint this week in Freeport were arrested on Wednesday. Their capture led to further police investigations that resulted in the discovery of an illegal firearm at a residence in Freeport and the
EDITORIAL: Doing the best we can with what we have
THOSE who were expecting an exciting Budget yesterday will have come away disappointed.
STATESIDE: How tweet it is - Trump’s favourite platform points out a few facts
Something happened this week that might turn out to be pretty significant to the way the American election turns out in now less than six months. On Tuesday, Twitter decided to fact-check the President of the United States.
FRONT PORCH: Wishful thinking won’t work in a crisis, we must deal with realities
The notion of magical thinking is employed by a number of disciplines including philosophy, anthropology and psychology, with some differences in how the term is applied in the different fields. A common thread in the various disciplines is the idea of fallacious or false reasoning.
I was just trying to find answers, says Albury
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP James Albury said yesterday he believed his calling for an inquiry into the burial of 55 Hurricane Dorian victims over the weekend was blown out of proportion, saying he was just seeking to gain more answers about the matte
Union chief predicts unrest over restraints
BAHAMAS Public Service Union president Kimsley Ferguson said the government’s proposed fiscal restraints on the civil service will cause unrest.
Turnquest unveils list of budget cuts
THE Minnis administration has cancelled all international travel for the next fiscal year and eliminated the assignment of red plate vehicles to ministers as part of a broader plan to cut spending, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter
Tax breaks extended for Grand Bahama and Abaco
THE government has extended tax breaks until the end of the year to support ongoing Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts on Grand Bahama and Abaco. The Minnis administration will also reduce customs duty on fishing and farming equipment among other ite
$10bn debt blow-out 'our worst nightmare'
Private sector executives yesterday warned “our worst nightmare has come true” after the government unveiled record deficit spending that will carry the national debt past the $10bn mark by June 2022. K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, told t
Economy's shrink to exceed $1.3bn deficit
The Bahamian economy will this year shrink by a greater amount than the government’s projected $1.3bn deficit for the upcoming 2020-2021 fiscal year, the deputy prime minister revealed yesterday.K Peter Turnquest, unveiling the 2020-2021 budget in th
Concern over budget's 'dependency' message
A former Chamber of Commerce chairman yesterday voiced concern that the government had sent “a message of dependency” through its 2020-2021 budget presentation. Gowon Bowe told Tribune Business it “can be dangerous” to give the impression that the g
50% cash use fall 'ambitious, not impossible'
The government’s target to reduce Bahamian society’s cash use by 50 percent within the next five years is “ambitious but not impossible”, a well-known banker said yesterday.Gowon Bowe, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) chief financial officer, told Tribune Bus
Budget's $55m for small firms 'too moderate'
The government was yesterday urged to almost double the small business financing provided in the 2020-2021 budget to $100m, a sector consultant arguing that the planned allocation was “too moderate”.Mark A Turnquest, pictured, of Mark A Turnquest Con
Restrictions eased as nation moves into Phase 3 of reopening
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced in the House of Assembly on Thursday that the Bahamas is moving into Phase 3 of the country’s reopening.
PLP slams 2020/21 Budget
THE Official Opposition yesterday slammed the measures outlined in the Minnis administration’s 2020/2021 budget to aid the country’s economic recovery amid the COVID-19 crisis, branding it as “the worse budget communication in living memory.”
$10 BILLION: Pandemic and Dorian send deficit soaring
GOVERNMENT debt is projected to top 10 billion dollars by the end of the 2021/2022 fiscal year as the Minnis administration commits to deficit spending in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
Parents welcome VAT holiday for school supplies
THE government’s announcement of a VAT holiday for school supplies ahead of the new term was welcomed by parents yesterday, however one department store owner does not expect the tax break to bring an increase in sales.
Woman admits false claim
AN Eleuthera woman who falsely accused her ex-boyfriend of beating her child had her case dismissed with a warning in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Daniel Knowles, 23, appeared before Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged with deceiving a public
Homeless man's hunt for a meal ends up in court
A MAGISTRATE discharged a homeless man who was brought to court for violating the national curfew after he explained that he had only left the abandoned building he was staying in to get something to eat. Edvardo Charlton, 36, appeared before Magist
Couple robbed at gunpoint
A GRAND Bahama couple was robbed at gunpoint by two masked men in Freeport on Tuesday, police reported. A police report said the incident happened shortly after 4pm when a woman and man were reportedly accosted by two masked men armed with a gun at
Man fined for $150 assault
A 42-year-old man was ordered to pay another man $150 after shoving him and causing him to hit his head during an argument earlier this week. Ronnie Joseph appeared before Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged with assaulting Gylano Alexandre on May
Emergency powers extended until June 29
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled a resolution in the House of Assembly yesterday to extend the country’s state of emergency to June 29 as he announced plans to further ease restrictions. The resolution will be debated today. Dr Minnis said he
Lulled into a false sense of security
The news that the Bahamas Petroleum Company has not paid its licensing bills for an undisclosed number of years did not come as a shock. It is exactly what I expected from them. What did surprise me was that the government accepted a mere $900,000 to cancel the bill, which was surely in the millions of dollars. And what was really astonishing is that BPC admitted that it used money from Bahamian investors to pay it!
Lighthouse project will be good for everyone
Today, it is me asking you for your support, tomorrow it might be you asking me for my support. Bahamians do a great job at supporting each other. We must stand with each other.
Cargill: National swimming championships postponed
As Bahamas Aquatics gradually works its way back into the pool through several phases, the altered timeline has prompted the organisation to announce the official postponement of its national championships due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 puts damper on Mario Ford baseball camp
FOR the past three decades, Mario Ford has spent a considerable amount of his time teaching so many youngsters the game of baseball at his homestead on Windsor Park, a place where he and his family were able to hone their skills in becoming some of the most successful players to participate in the sport, along with softball.
Retail optimism on Back to School VAT 'holiday'
Bahamian retailers yesterday voiced optimism that the government’s declaration of a two-week back-to-school VAT “holiday” will boost sales and spending by hard-pressed Bahamian consumers. John Cathopoulis, general manager of John’s Shoes Store, told
Be 'cold' over $100m SOE subsidy slashes
The government was yesterday urged to make “cold” decisions on whether to retain loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) after it unveiled plans to slash their annual subsidies by $100m within four years. Gowon Bowe, a former Chamber of Commerce
ART OF GRAPHIX: Creating magic in your images
In Photoshop there are various ways and reasons for making a selection. You may want to remove something from a background and replace it with something else. Some of the selection tools found in Adobe Photoshop are better suited for certain tasks th
Extended Dorian tax breaks hailed as 'absolutely critical'
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday hailed the extension of Dorian-related tax breaks through the 2020 year-end and beyond as “absolutely critical” to reviving reconstruction in COVID-19’s wake. Ken Hutton, speaking after K Peter Turnque
Govt health reforms target $62m savings
The government yesterday said it was targeting $62m in savings over a five-year period by permitting the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme to lead the primary healthcare system’s transformation.K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, in unveil
Fishermen: We wanted vehicle duty reductions
Commercial fishermen yesterday said they would have welcomed a reduction in import tariffs on vehicles used to transport their catch rather than tax breaks on equipment already duty-free. Adrian LaRoda, the Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance’s pres
Financial provider urges Bahamians: Don't panic
A Bahamian financial services provider yesterday urged citizens and investors to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic for opportunities rather than simply panic. Sean Longley, pictured , Leno’s founder and president, said: “We read the headlines daily. We
Wednesday, May 27
Man dies, woman injured after shooting
A MAN died in the parking lot of the Fox Hill Police Station shortly after he and a woman were shot while driving Wednesday morning.
EDITORIAL: Budget crucial as up to half of country is out of work
IF the importance of today’s Budget was lost on anyone, the estimate by Immigration Minister Elsworth Johnson that half the country’s workforce is unemployed ought to concentrate minds.
ALICIA WALLACE: Why did this shameful ceremony happen, robbing the dead of their dignity and the bereaved a proper moment to grieve?
When my grandfather died I was out of the country for study. I had planned to return three weeks later, but got the support of my parents and the university to make the necessary arrangements to change the date. It was a difficult time of year because final exams were set to begin in a matter of days. Some people suggested I stay, but others, including my parents, told me to come home if that is what I needed to do.
Police arrest suspect over home rape claim
POLICE in New Providence have arrested a man suspected of raping a woman in her home on Monday.
Tornado races in to cause trouble
A TORNADO touched down in Deadman’s Reef, Grand Bahama early Tuesday morning, causing major roof damage to at least three homes and knocking down utility poles and power lines in the area. No fatalities or injuries were reported, an official said.
American boat captain denies shooting charges
AN American boat captain yesterday denied a string of firearm and ammunition possession charges after he was accused of opening fire on officers during a shooting incident in Green Turtle Cay, Abaco, last week. John Tellam, 60, appeared before Deput
NIB deals with 900 within three hours
THE National Insurance Board reported serving more than 900 people within three hours of operating its temporary satellite office at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium yesterday. NIB took to its Facebook page to show the lines were cleared of customers a
D'Aguilar: We're still working on tourist protocols
OFFICIALS are still formulating protocols visitors will have to follow to gain entry into the country once the borders are reopened, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said yesterday.He also said the Ministry of Tourism plans to launch “a very compr
LGBTI community still planning pride march
THE Bahamas LGBTI community has no intentions of cancelling 2020 Pride Bahamas events as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to organisers, who said the launch will still take place in October, but under certain guidelines. Speaking to The
Albury: Sunday briefing was helpful
AFTER calling for an inquiry into the burial of 55 Hurricane Dorian victims over the weekend, Central and South Abaco MP James Albury says the Disaster Recovery Authority’s press conference on Sunday provided helpful information to Abaco families. I
Migrants 'need not fear' supplying DNA samples
UNDOCUMENTED migrants “need not fear” deportation from the government when submitting DNA samples to assist with identifying Hurricane Dorian victims, Immigration Minister Ellsworth Johnson said yesterday. Saying all human life in the Bahamas “is pr
UPDATED: PM tables resolution to extend emergency orders
UPDATE: Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled a resolution in the House of Assembly Wednesday to extend the emergency orders until June 29. Dr Minnis also said he will make an announcement tomorrow on the easing of restrictions in New Providence Grand Bahama and some Family Islands.
THE BUDGET: Govt revenues set for $900m drop, tax relief measures introduced
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest revealed today that there will be a $900m drop in government revenues resulting in a national deficit of $1.3 billion by June next year, brought on by Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic.
'Three weeks from oil drilling.. then COVID'
A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday revealed it was “within three weeks” of drilling its first well until COVID-19 intervened as it unveiled a revised timetable taking its operations into the 2021 first quarter. Simon Potter, Bahamas Petroleum Co
Bahamas targets January 1 launch for overflight fees
The Bahamas is aiming to levy fees on aircraft flying through Bahamian airspace by January 1, 2021, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday, adding: “We think we’re close to a solution.”
Major events planner in NIB payout fears
A major Bahamian events planner yesterday voiced concern about the “horrible situation” facing its staff and other workers due to delays in National Insurance Board (NIB) benefit payouts.
Govt plans civil service 'freeze'
The government is planning to freeze all civil service hirings, promotions and salary increases in a bid to limit the size of a potentially massive 2020-2021 fiscal deficit, it was revealed last night.Kimsley Ferguson, the Bahamas Public Service Unio
Budget must have private sector's back
The government is being urged to “drive confidence” by using today’s 2020-2021 budget to show the private sector it will do whatever it takes to “undergird the economy” and prevent its collapse. Jeffrey Beckles, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and E
BETHEL TO FIGHT COURT’S RULING: Citizenship move to be fought in ‘public’s interest’
THE Office of the Attorney General will appeal a groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling that children born in the country out of wedlock to Bahamian men and foreign women are citizens at birth and do not have to wait until 18 to apply for citizenship.
Jobless rate rise ‘to almost 50%’
THE Bahamas’ unemployment rate has soared to nearly 50 percent due to layoffs brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, a government minister revealed yesterday.
Probe into yacht ‘stranded’ 100 days
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force is investigating a visiting yachting couple - Captain Brian and Karin Trautman - who have been ‘stranded’ on an uninhabited island in the Ragged Island chain for over 100 days.
Track and field athletes get All-America honours
While they didn’t get to compete in the NCAA indoor championships because of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of Bahamian track and field athletes got All-America honours for the 2020 NCAA Division I Indoor Track & Field season.
Stopping for a soda costs pool cleaner $500
A POOL cleaner who claimed he was outside during the country’s weekend lockdown because he stopped to buy a soda on the way to his employer’s house was fined $500 yesterday. Willo Desamue, 37, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes aft
Fined $1.5k for cutting off ankle monitoring bracelet
A 36-year-old man who cut off his ankle monitoring bracelet last year has been ordered to pay more than $1,000 in compensation to a security company. Sony Pierre appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes yesterday charged with one count
Canadian swim coach Tony ‘TK’ Kennedy dies
POPULAR Canadian swim coach Tony “TK’ Kennedy, who helped to establish the Barracuda Swim Club as one of the most competitive teams in the Bahamas Swimming Federation, passed away last week.
Charged with indecent assault
A MAN was yesterday charged with indecently assaulting an eight-year-old girl. Sheldon Forbes appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes accused of attacking the child on May 22. He was not required to enter a plea and the case was adjou
Or, in other words
In the words of Robbie Burns. “The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft a-gley”
First, we should address our flaws
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but building the new.”- Socrates.
San Salvador sporting facilities ‘deplorable’
WHILE many persons are looking at ways of how they will operate once sports resume in the country, sports administrator and physical education teacher Rev Stephen Brown is trying to find ways to get the facilities improved on the island of San Salvador.
Agriculture eyes technology to reverse import increases
The Ministry of Agriculture is aiming to boost vegetable production through the use of hydroponic technology in a bid to reverse double-digit import increases, its top economist said yesterday. Brickell Pinder, addressing the Rethinking Food Securit
Cruise line pushes back Nassau, Freeport return
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line yesterday warned passengers its “onboard experience may look a little different” after it announced a further delay in resuming voyages to this nation. The Palm Beach-based operator said the Grand Celebration will restar
Minister: 50% jobless rate hit to work permits
A Cabinet minister yesterday warned some existing work permits are unlikely to be renewed as The Bahamas grapples with a 50 percent unemployment rate post-COVID-19. Elsworth Johnson, minister of financial services, trade and industry and immigration
Fishermen oppose forced sales to local wholesalers
Bahamian fishermen are opposed to COVID-19 restrictions that force them to sell their product to wholesalers at prices that make it difficult to gain a proper return, an industry representative said yesterday. Adrian LaRoda, the Bahamas Commercial F
Bahamas targets January 1 launch for overflight fees
The Bahamas is aiming to levy fees on aircraft flying through Bahamian airspace by January 1, 2021, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday, adding: “We think we’re close to a solution.”Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, said the gov
Tourism needs 18 month 'ramp up'
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the tourism industry could take 18 months to fully “ramp up” following the COVID-19 shutdown. Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured , minister for tourism and aviation, told media outside the Cabinet Office: “Obviously we ha
First female director named for cooperative movement
The Bahamas has appointed the first-ever woman director of co-operative societies in the movement’s 45 year-existence. Cheryl Bowe-Moss, a 39-year veteran of co-operative societies, was preceded in her post by three men. She was first exposed to the
BORCO owner to give $100k COVID-19 help
The owner of Grand Bahama’s BORCO oil storage terminal yesterday said 50 percent of its $200,000 COVID-19 donation to Caribbean countries will go to The Bahamas.
Tuesday, May 26
PETER YOUNG: Scientists advise but political leaders must make decisions
People who believe in individual freedom in society and regard themselves instinctively as libertarians normally have an innate distrust of authoritarianism, and, in a democracy, they are on guard against any perceived encroachment by the state on civil liberties.
FACE TO FACE: Shutdown? For Regina, the crisis has opened the door on a whole new audience
Learning how to adapt, learn new skills and become more internet savvy are critical skills to have as we traverse this COVID-19 pandemic.
Massive search for escaped suspect
A massive search continues in Grand Bahama for a suspect following his break-out and escape from the Eight Mile Rock Police Station over the weekend. Superintendent of Police Terecita Pinder told The Tribune police still have not found 27-year-old A
Rebuilding work getting back in full swing, says DRA chairman
DISASTER Reconstruction Authority Chairman John-Michael Clarke said yesterday officials are working to get “back in full swing” to assist with the relief and rebuilding efforts on Abaco and Grand Bahama and speed up the process of reconstruction.
Turnquest dismisses devaluation threat
FINANCE Minister Peter Turnquest has dismissed reports of the government running out of money as false while stressing the Bahamian dollar is not facing a devaluation threat. Yesterday, a statement from Mr Turnquest insisted measures are being taken
NIB expands payouts and extends deadline
THE government has asked the National Insurance Board to extend its unemployment assistance programme for self-employed in the tourism sector to July 1, the agency said yesterday. The National Insurance Board also said the government has also includ
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 26th May
STARTS: 05/26/2020 04:30 AM EDT EXPIRES: 05/26/2020 9:00 PM EDT
Bahamas facing 'eye popping' 100% debt
The Bahamas faces the “eye popping” prospect that the national debt will equal or exceed the size of its economy come June 2021, a University of The Bahamas (UoB) economics lecturer warned last night. Rupert Pinder told Tribune Business that the Bah
IMF's $252m loan 'prudent and logical'
A former finance minister yesterday backed the government’s move to obtain a $252m “emergency” loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as “a very prudent and logical thing to do”.James Smith, who held the post during the first Christie admini
Luciano's closure makes tourism start 'more critical'
The closure of Luciano’s restaurant, and loss of 72 jobs, makes it “even more critical to open our tourism industry as rapidly as possible”, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, speaking after George
Luciano's operator gives 'more casualties' warning
The operator of Luciano’s yesterday warned that COVID-19 will claim “more casualties” in the Bahamian dine-in restaurant industry after the pandemic put “the final nail in the coffin” for the business and its 72 employees.Ash Henderson, marketing dir
B$ devaluation 'not on horizon'
Devaluation of the Bahamian dollar “is not on the horizon at all”, a former Central Bank governor said yesterday, adding that the country’s all-important foreign reserves have several protective mechanisms around them. James Smith, also a former fin
Cooper claims budget is going to be brutal
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper says the Minnis administration’s 2020/2021 budget will be “brutal” for ordinary Bahamians.
Abaco concerns remain over burial
DESPITE explanations from the Disaster Reconstruction Authority during a press Zoom conference on Sunday, some Abaco residents are still frustrated about the mass burial of Hurricane Dorian victims.
‘People are not getting the message’
A JUDGE chastised a group of young people brought before his court for violating the weekend lockdown yesterday, noting that although a teenager who was fined $700 last week for selling coconuts sparked public outrage, he still had a “courtroom full of people” violating the emergency regulations.
New relief flight for returnees
BAHAMASAIR is set to put on another COVID-19 relief flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Nassau this Friday for Bahamian citizens and residents. The flight is scheduled to leave Fort Lauderdale at 2pm.
Ten years on, family mourns missing father
Glen Brandt loved The Bahamas. Every summer the 48-year-old American would stock up his trawler Genesis at his home port in Florida and head south for New Providence.
DAD’S BAHAMIAN? THEN YOU ARE TOO – Supreme Court sets new provision for citizenship if born outside marriage
A SUPREME Court judge has ruled that children born out of wedlock to Bahamian men and foreign women are citizens at birth and do not have to wait until 18 to apply for citizenship.
24-year-old accused of sex with minor
A 24-year-old man was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of having sexual intercourse last week with a minor. Daniel Williams appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse after he was
Man faces two years in jail for drugs and firearm offences
A 31-year-old man was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty yesterday to possession of drugs with intent to supply. He was also accused of having an illegal firearm and ammunition. Satchmo Saunders appeared before Magistrate Andrew
15 months in prison for drug possession
A 38-year-old man was sentenced to 15 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to drug possession in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. He was among four men who appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes for drug related offences. Obafemi Gibson, 38,
Davonte Jennings commits to Saints
Davonte Jennings will be headed to the Junior College (NJCAA) route to continue his academic and athletic career in the fall.
It should stop raining soon
RAINY weather conditions are expected to clear up by mid-week, according to local weather forecasters. On Sunday, the Bahamas Meteorology Department posted on Facebook that moderate to heavy rain would affect the northwest and central Bahamas. The d
‘I really wanted to graduate at school with my friends and family’
IT seems as if there will always be a debate in their home on Shrimp Road, Carmichael Road, as to who will be the better basketball player between brothers Deyton and Michael Albury Jr.
Palm Cay launches final home sites sale
A New Providence real estate development is aiming to sell off its remaining home site inventory now that the government has lifted the COVID-19 restrictions on property showings.Palm Cay, the mixed-used real estate and marina development on New Prov
Luciano’s permanently closing, COVID-19 crisis ‘final nail in the coffin’
LUCIANO’S, a popular restaurant in eastern New Providence, is closing down permanently with the COVID-19 crisis “being the final nail in the coffin” after several years of declining fortunes.
Port Authority hails digital payment firm
A Bahamian digital payments solutions provider has launched its platform in Grand Bahama through the five-store Express Food Mart chain.Kanoo, a Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) licensee, has launched a platform that can assist businesses and custo
Extended store hours to ease 'crazy volume'
An auto parts supplier yesterday said “the crazy volume” of customers that initially lined up outside his store should be reduced now it can re-open for a full five days per week. Dwayne Higgs, WHIM Automotive’s general manager, told Tribune Busines
Real estate firm back in the office
A prominent Bahamian real estate firm yesterday confirmed it has resumed office operations for the first time in nine weeks after COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were eased. Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty said its offices across The Bahamas
Bahamas lost 60,000 livestock to Dorian
The Bahamas lost 60,000 livestock as part of the $80m in damages inflicted upon the agricultural sector by Hurricane Dorian, a regional agricultural body has revealed. The Caribbean Agricultural and Research Development Institute (CARDI), in a state
Monday, May 25
Luciano's to close permanently
Luciano’s Restaurant on East Bay Street has announced that it will be permanently closing.
WORLD VIEW – The US and Cuba: Caribbean chooses cooperation, not confrontation
CARIBBEAN countries are, once again, being placed in a difficult position as they try to navigate a course between the United States (US) and Cuba – two countries of great importance to them and for each of which they have great respect.
INSIGHT: We need to tread very, very carefully however appealing opening the borders may appear
IT has been, without any exaggeration, a gruelling two months of lockdowns and curfews.
INSIGHT: Emerging from the darkness of a world where the virus claimed 1,000 lives a day
Alessandro Sarno reports from Italy as the country looks to life after lockdown.
WSC chief signs two contracts worth $2m
WATER and Sewerage Corporation Executive Chairman Adrian Gibson signed two groundbreaking contracts worth more than $2m last week to further the corporation’s work in Abaco following the devastation of Hurricane Dorian. Mr Gibson said the May 22 sig
More people manage to fly back home
MORE than 100 Bahamian citizens and residents returned to the country on a repatriation flight from the United States on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One hundred and thirty-five nationals and residents, as well as three in
DRA defends burial of 55 Dorian victims
THE Disaster Reconstruction Authority defended the government’s mass burial of 55 Hurricane Dorian victims amid criticism and protests from some in Abaco.
Govt seeking debt payment delay - and $250m IMF loan
The Government is seeking "breathing room" by deferring debt repayments coming due, it can be revealed, as it last night confirmed it has applied for a $252m "emergency" International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan.
Ex-minister fears 100% debt/GDP
A former finance minister fears The Bahamas could be “in really dangerous territory” by June 2021 with a national debt that is equal to the size of its economy. James Smith, pictured , who held the post under the first Christie administration, told
Aliv's 'triple whammy' puts revenue off 15%
Aliv’s revenues are recovering from a “15 percent-plus” fall-off in April sparked by a “triple whammy” from the COVID-19 pandemic, the mobile operator’s top executive has revealed. Damian Blackburn told Tribune Business that besides coping with a 30
'Park our pride and grow GDP'
The government is being urged to eliminate the backlog of permanent residency applications within 30 days as a means to secure “easy money” for the Public Treasury and a multi-million dollar foreign exchange boost. Jason Kinsale, the Bahamian develo
Could this be the end of globalisation?
The coronavirus has created much disruption, unbalancing the pillars that sustain our way of living. This is particularly noticeable in the effect the virus-containment measures are having on globalisation. As the disease progressed from east to west
Top soccer coach on bail over US assault
BEFORE he could officially accept his new job as the Technical Director for the Bahamas Football Association, former Queens Park Rangers (QPR) captain Marc Bircham found himself before the court of law in the United States facing a charge of aggravated battery.
American held over Green Turtle Cay shooting
AN American boat captain was detained by police on Friday after opening fire on officers during a tense stand off on Green Turtle Cay where crime is virtually unheard of.
Churches hold off drive-by services
FEW churches in New Providence held drive-up services over the weekend after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis permitted them to worship under stringent new guidelines.
‘ABACO FAMILIES NEED ANSWERS’: MP insists inquiry required to relieve pain of bereaved
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP James Albury has called for an inquiry into the process that led to the burial of 55 Hurricane Dorian victims on Friday.
Nortmann re-signs with new club in Iceland
MEN’S senior national basketball team member Robert Nortmann re-signed in Iceland for another year with a new club.
Athletes named on Academic All-Summit League teams
Bahamian quarter-miler Bradley Dormeus, high hurdler Sasha Wells and sprinter Kayvon Stubbs were among six Oral Roberts University athletes named on the 2020 Outdoor Track and Field Academic All-Summit League Teams.
FSU head coach: Izaak Bastian ‘is a model student-athlete’
IZAAK Bastian continues to receive academic accolades for the past season, most recently by the College Sports Information Directors of America.
We must ensure we take care of the public good
According to The Tribune of May 19, 2020, a group calling itself the Organisation for Responsible Government (ORG) apparently sees it as quite responsible that a country that runs itself on revenues representing a mere 18 percent of Gross Domestic Product (among the lowest on the planet) and that derives the bulk (more than 70 percent) of these revenues from taxes that disproportionately impact the poor while exempting wealthier residents from worldwide norms of taxation on income, capital gains and property, should respond to the resulting fiscal imbalance by further downsizing the public sector.
Minnis & Co are just playing follow the leader
The question which is baffling every Bahamian and resident in our wonderful nation is: ‘What is next?’ Obviously, no one in his/her right mind has a clue as to the thinking process of the Prime Minister much less that of the individual cabinet ministers and parliamentarians. The coronavirus has decimated the economy and the societal and mental dislocation caused by the effects of the same will wreak even more misery and pain on the average Bahamian.
GB businesses helped to RISE via $725k grant
A joint initiative to provide grant funding to Grand Bahama-based businesses struggling to rebuild from Hurricane Dorian plans to disburse a further $725,000 among 76 selected companies.The Restoring Industry, Sustaining Employment (RISE) grant progr
Countering the corruption risk caused by COVID-19
Corruption and bribery risks, by all indications, increase during a crisis. Over the past decade, a sustained number of corruption and bribery cases have occurred because of entities not fully appreciating the risk attached to their vendors or weak i
COVID-19 points way to decentralised economy
This pandemic has many lessons, but an important one not to miss is that the centralised business approach is flawed. Developing economies should continue to adopt the concept of decentralisation for local industries and markets. Decentralisation is
Minister: Investors must get 40% of food locally
The government has decided to mandate that all investors be required to source 40 percent of their food needs locally from farmers, fishermen and other suppliers.Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and marine resources, said all Heads of Agreeme
Govt warns GB vendors on direct deposit switch
Grand Bahama businesses and individuals who provide goods and services to the government must undergo a “verification exercise” ahead of the introduction of electronic vendor payments. The Public Treasury, in a statement, said the switch to payment
Major retailer 'close' to returning all staff
A major Bahamian retailer yesterday said it is now “close” to bringing back all 80 staff after the government gave permission for its sector to open up five days per week from 8am to 6pm.Brent Burrows Jr, manager of e-commerce and online shopping wit
Dry cleaner: COVID-19 costs will be 'struggle'
A Bahamian dry cleaning company estimates that COVID-19 health and safety precautions will impose additional monthly operating costs of between $1,000 to $1,500 as it hailed the sector’s re-opening. Lana Lee-Brogdon, New Oriental Cleaners’ chief exe
Sunday, May 24
Court upholds one murder conviction and dismisses another
THE Court of Appeal has upheld the 40-year murder sentence of a man accused of a nightclub killing in 2014, while overturning a similar sentence of another man accused of committing the same crime. Milargo Humes and Anthon Meadows were accused of mu
Police hunt man who escaped from custody
A manhunt is underway in Grand Bahama for a male suspect who escaped from police custody at the Eight Mile Rock Police Station over the weekend. Christopher Anthony Lee, aka Shaquille Aamal Lewis, 27, of Jamaica and Jones Town, EMR, was arrested for
SUNDAY UPDATE: No new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that there are no new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Saturday, May 23
SATURDAY UPDATE: Three new cases of COVID-19, 100 in total
The Ministry of Health announced on Saturday that there are three new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Friday, May 22
FRIDAY UPDATE: No new cases of COVID-19
There were no new cases of coronavirus diagnosed today in The Bahamas.
Man arrested for breach of curfew in Bimini
BIMINI Police have arrested a man for breach of curfew and possession of dangerous drugs on that island, which is currently under a two-week mandated COVID-19 lockdown.
Two arrested on Abaco after firearm, ammunition found
TWO Abaco men were arrested for possession of illegal firearms and ammunition on Thursday, police reported.
55 Hurricane Dorian victims laid to rest
THE families of 55 Hurricane Dorian victims finally saw their loved ones laid to rest on Friday – though many were still upset at the lack of answers over identification and the handling of the bodies.
Alexander Burrows Jr and POWER team aim for BPSU elections
GRAND Bahama resident Alexander Burrows Jr, and members of the People Organizing With Effective Results (POWER) Team, are seeking to be elected during the 2020 Bahamas Public Services Union Elections in September.
Man charged with damaging windscreen with bottle
A 50-year-old man was charged on Friday with damaging the front windshield of a woman’s car with a bottle.
Man admits stealing more than $7,000
A 20-year-old man admitted stealing more than $7,000 from his friend’s uncle.
Teenager fined for violating lockdown 'to retrieve phone charger'
A TEENAGER who claimed he violated the lockdown because he went to his neighbour’s house to retrieve his phone charger was fined $550 on Friday.
Two charged with drug possession
TWO men were charged with drug possession in separate incidents in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
05222020 EDITION
Friday, 22nd May, 2020.
EDITORIAL: Promising signs - but not an end to the lockdown yet
MORE than a thousand people want to head for the Family Islands.
Church services allowed with restrictions, extension of business hours
THE Bahamas has officially began the transition to stage two of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ reopening plan, with worship services now permitted under various conditions and further relaxation of hours for business operations now sanctioned.
DIANE PHILLIPS: A bit of common sense and we can unleash at least one economic tiger
This is one of those good news, bad news stories. The difference in this one is the bad news has an easy fix. Here’s how the story begins.
Reef can survive in warmer seas
NEW research has shown that a coral reef in Abaco can survive in extreme warming ocean temperatures caused by climate change.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Why it would be worth taking another look at the money in marijuana
As yet another weekend ‘lockdown’ looms, Bahamian unemployment creeped toward a staggering 30%, disgruntled, unemployed and recently laid off Bahamians, continued to wait for relief from NIB.
Families benefit from beds donated by charity
About 100 families in Grand Bahama were recipients of new beds provided by a local private charitable foundation that has been providing relief aid since Hurricane Dorian. The Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation (GBDRF) - the charitable arm of t
Closure was only option, says salon owner
INSTEAD of celebrating the 20th anniversary of their business, Tiffany and Raymond Rolle had to face the harsh reality of closing their salon’s doors permanently, due to long arms of the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-essential businesses were closed from m
Darville: Brennen treated unfairly
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party COVID-19 task force co-chair Senator Dr Michael Darville has criticised Free National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer for criticising Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen.Dr Brennen, pictured, told The Tribune this we
Chinese community helps out with 200 care packages
THE Chinese Community Association of The Bahamas gave out 200 care packages yesterday at local churches as a part of the group’s humanitarian aid programme. This effort is being coordinated with the association, the Bahamas National Food Security Ta
Crisis takes toll in jobs at Grand Bahama shipyard
The Grand Bahama Shipyard has terminated 27 workers, including several long-serving managerial staff, due to a further slump in business caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Govt agencies' IT 'drag' in COVID-19
The Bahamian economy “must come out of COVID-19 with a greater degree of efficiency than we went into this” through the full-fledged embrace of technology, a former attorney general urged yesterday. John Delaney QC, now-principal at the Delaney Part
Realtors 'can't wait to return full-time'
Bahamian realtors yesterday hailed the prime minister’s decision to allow the sector’s morning re-opening, but said: “We can’t wait to get back to work full-time.” Peter Dupuch, founder and president of ERA Dupuch Real Estate, told Tribune Business
Port suffers 40% May volume fall
Nassau’s main commercial shipping port yesterday predicted it will suffer a “flat” 2020 full year after container import volumes for May to-date dropped by around 40 percent compared to the prior year.Dion Bethell, Arawak Port Development Company’s (
'Storm in teacup' on COVID repatriation
The aviation operator that returned seven persons to The Bahamas before they had been tested for COVID-19 yesterday described it as “a storm in a tea cup”, and added: “We have to get beyond the fear-mongering.” Paul Aranha, president of Trans-Island
King takes command at RBDF
RAYMOND King was officially sworn in as the newest commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force yesterday, becoming the eighth person in the country to have attained the prestigious rank.
Leaked photos land boyfriend in jail
A 27-year-old man was sentenced to nine months in prison after admitting to defrauding his ex-girlfriend of over $1,000, hacking her social media accounts and damaging her cellphone.
273,000 emergency meals served
BAHAMAS Feeding Network Executive Director Philip Smith estimated the organisation has served about 273,000 meals to Bahamians over a two- month period during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coronavirus has taught us some vital lessons in finance
Businesses are closing, jobs are disappearing, and the global economy is shrinking. The coronavirus has had a negative effect on so many lives and so many wallets. Many of us have questions we need answered:
Bain, Lumberjacks’ season marred by NCAA violations
A season of historic milestones for Nathan Bain and the Stephen F Austin Lumberjacks will be marred by NCAA violations centred around improprieties in the academic certification process for several student athletes.
Hard work pays off for Azaro Roker
DESPITE the challenges of the offseason, Azaro Roker intends for his final season with the St Francis Xavier X-Men basketball programme to be the best of his collegiate career.
Butters sets the stage for breakout senior year
SHAVAUL Butters’ junior season has set the stage for a breakout senior year and a busy recruitment period for his upcoming senior season.
THE PRESS BOX: My Cowboys’ gamble pays off, and they ‘steal again’
THIS week saw the Dallas Cowboys see their gamble pay off and the team get away with larceny, yet again.
Woman fined for breaking curfew
A WOMAN who claimed she broke the national curfew because she was on her way back home from picking up an important item from her friend’s house was fined $1,000 yesterday. Bissau Miller, 22, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after officers
Pair jailed for assault as victim criticised for not walking away
A GRAND Bahama magistrate sentenced two Eight Mile Rock men who assaulted an 18-year-old girl to five months in prison, but also strongly admonished the complainant and her female friend for not “walking away” from the altercation. During an arraign
Two men charged with stealing garbage bin
TWO men were yesterday charged in magistrates court with stealing by reason of employment. Thomas Ingraham, 50, and Rashad McFall, 27, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with stealing a garbage bin valued at $2,000, belonging to Henr
‘This coronavirus ain’t nothing to play with’
AFTER his freshman year ended without a trip to the prestigious NCAA Basketball Tournament, Sammy Hunter is looking forward to returning to help the Ole Mississippi University Rebels regain its prominence during his sophomore year.
1,000 inquire about travel to Family Islands
A FURTHER relaxation of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ emergency COVID-19 restrictions is expected to be announced today as officials revealed they have been surprised by the numbers seeking to travel back to the Family Islands.
COVID-19's big economic rebuild - 2020 and beyond
In his final article, Hubert Edwards details the questions policymakers must ask - and solve - to revive the Bahamian economy.
Govt cannot solve covid-19 alone
A member of the Fiscal Responsibility Committee (FRC) watchdog yesterday warned that The Bahamas cannot solely rely on the government to carry the country through the COVID-19 economic crisis.Gowon Bowe, also a former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and
Cable Bahamas 'evolves' Eleuthera product offering
Cable Bahamas was yesterday said to be increasing internet coverage and “evolving” its services to Eleuthera through products such as managed Wi-FI access. Dominic Petty, the BISX-listed communications provider’s northern Bahamas director, told the
BISX adds fund listing amid COVID pandemic
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) yesterday confirmed that the W Global Diversified Fund is the latest to join its roster of investment fund listings. Incorporated as a Bahamian International Business Company (IBC), and licensed u
Eleuthera needs more beds, says hotel boss
An Eleuthera-based resort manager yesterday argued that the island needs more hotel rooms to fully exploit its tourism industry potential. Jennifer Hadland, the French Leave Resort’s general manager, told the Eleuthera Business Outlook conference: “
Thursday, May 21
THURSDAY UPDATE: No new COVID-19 cases
The Ministry of Health reported on Thursday that there are no new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
22-year-old accused of murder
A 22-year-old man was charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday with murdering a man and attempting to kill another man last week. Perez Cuffe appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with the death of Richard Bain and the attempted murder o
EDITORIAL: The inequality of the pandemic
SINCE the start of the penalties for breaching curfew, there has been some unease about the application of some of the fines – and two cases have brought that to a head.
STATESIDE: The great game’s new players - the US and China
Is China in the process of replacing Russia in the political and geo-strategic life of the United States? Are the Americans about to get enmeshed in another decades-long Cold War with a new opponent to joust with in the ring of world affairs?
FRONT PORCH: Forget the naysayers, Lawrence Rolle’s spirit and joy delivers a message to uplift us all
The late Joseph Campbell, a professor of literature whose groundbreaking work in comparative religion and comparative mythology included the book and companion PBS series, The Power of Myth, recalled an exchange at an international conference in Japan.
Govt is fumbling, misstepping and backtracking, claims PLP leader
PLP leader Philip “Brave” Davis criticised the government as “mis-stepping, backtracking” and “fumbling” in a pre-budget statement he delivered last night. He claimed the Minnis administration has cut the Ministry of Works’ capital budget, saying this hampers the work Bahamians could be doing.
PM urges country to go digital
DECLARING that the country will have to make “deep and far-reaching structural changes” to the economy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday it is “absolutely necessary” that the Bahamas becomes fully digitised.
Bimini adjusting to life under lockdown
RESIDENTS of Bimini are no longer anxious, but adjusting well to life in COVID-19 lockdown, according to Island Administrator Cleola Pinder. The island has been under a strict 14-day lockdown since Monday. “Everybody is indoors,” said Ms Pinder. “T
'It made me feel like a criminal even though I'm trying to do right . . . to stay out of harm's way and to help my family'
GOOD Samaritans raised $700 to pay court fines for a teenager who was arraigned earlier this week and convicted for selling coconuts roadside without a business licence and in violation of the 24-hour curfew.
FOCOL scouting for capital raise
BISX-listed FOCOL Holdings is on a capital markets “reconnaissance” mission to determine its best finance-raising options as it “very aggressively” seeks to position itself for growth post-COVID-19. Sir Franklyn Wilson, the company’s chairman, told
Retailers blast NIB benefit non-payment
The Bahamas Federation of Retailers (BFR) co-president yesterday charged that the National Insurance Board (NIB) is not paying unemployment benefits to all approved applications. Tara Morley told Tribune Business : “Almost none of us have received f
Retailers: 'Curb side can't cover AC costs'
Several Bahamian retailers were yesterday said to be on the verge of bankruptcy due to the COVID-19 lockdown, with some saying: “Curb side sales can’t even cover the cost of turning the AC on.”Tara Morley, the Bahamas Federation of Retailers (BFR) co
BPL-Shell deal has issues to resolve
A Cabinet minister last night revealed "there are a number of legal issues to be cleared up" before Shell North America's multi-fuel power plant deal with Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) can proceed.
‘We couldn’t open them all in one go’
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said normal commercial activity on islands like Exuma and Eleuthera has not been restarted because officials have to assume that people may have visited those islands and potentially brought COVID-19 to them.
Two face charges for attack on Grand Bahama girl
TWO men are expected to appear in court today for charges related to a Grand Bahama incident that left a woman beaten and injured.
Courts urged: Have a heart
CARLYLE Bethel, the head of the Free National Movement’s Torchbearers youth association, wants judges to be more measured and compassionate when enforcing Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ emergency curfew orders.
Court delays action against officer
THE Supreme Court has halted disciplinary proceedings against a senior officer in Exuma who was accused last year of badly bruising a woman’s face.
80 SMES in Grand Bahama to benefit from grants programme
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock @ tribunemedia.net SOME 80 small businesses in Grand Bahama that were affected by Hurricane Dorian will benefit from a grants programme to assist with reopening their businesses. A Small Busine
Joint partnership provides aid relief across Grand Bahama
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock @ tribunemedia.net DURING these challenging and difficult times, 200 families on Grand Bahama received much needed relief aid last week through a joint partnership effort. The Grand Bahama Disa
Jogger who ran past police is fined $2k
A FILIPINO woman who was caught jogging past the Cable Beach Police Station during the weekend lockdown was fined $2,000 yesterday. Helen Lacar, 41, was charged after officers found her on West Bay Street around 4.20pm on Sunday, May 17. Prosecutor
Fined for breaking into liquor store
AN Eleuthera man was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine or face one year in prison for breaking into a liquor store on the island last month. Deon Cummings, 34, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with one count of shop breaking after he adm
23-year-old admits trying to stab neighbour to death
A 23-year-old man yesterday admitted to threatening to stab his neighbour to death. Cedric Cooper appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney for threatening Wellington Whymns with death on May 19 and assaulting him with a knife the same day. He plea
Two men in hospital after shooting
TWO men are in hospital after a shooting in New Providence on Tuesday. Police said shortly before 5pm, officers were alerted to gunshots on Montel Street, Montell Heights.
We owe Dr Sands a huge debt of thanks
Regardless of the COVID-19 related quagmire that led to his resignation, the former Minister of Health Dr. Duane Sands deserves our appreciation for his historic, frank and passionate plea to make the nation’s wellness a serious and singularly important goal.
Kendalia Turner graduates, heading home to celebrate
With one of the most successful resumes as a collegiate female softball player under her belt, Kendalia Turner graduated from Georgian Court University yesterday and now she’s heading home for the celebration that was denied in Lakewood, New Jersey.
Burrows signs with FOS Provence-Basket Byers in French Pro B League
JARAUN “Kino” Burrows is set to make a return to a former club as he makes another move in the LNB French Pro B League.
IOC sets aside $800m for loans, payments linked to pandemic
THE International Olympic Committee (IOC) has earmarked a fund of $800m to bear the costs of the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics and support “the wider Olympic movement.”
Aragonite miner denies 'Sandy Cay' connection
A Bahamas-based aragonite miner yesterday vehemently denied it had any links to a Mexican company claiming it has the necessary approvals to export “aragonite sand” from a location called “Sandy Cay”. Anthony Myers, Sandy Cay Development Company’s p
AG: 'We can't ever let our guard down again'
The attorney general yesterday warned the financial services industry that The Bahamas “cannot afford to let our guard down again” on complying with international anti-financial crime standards. Carl Bethel QC, addressing an Internet-based conferenc
PM promises: 'I'll bulldoze red tape'
The prime minister yesterday promised the Bahamian financial services industry that he will “bulldoze bureaucratic roadblocks” impeding the ease of doing business in this nation following the COVID-19 crisis.Dr Hubert Minnis, pictured, addressing an
Eliminating Immigration corruption is 'key focus'
Eliminating corruption at the Immigration Department is a “primary focus” for the government, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, adding that he “cannot stress how vital” this objective is.Elsworth Johnson, pictured, minister of financial services, tr
Wednesday, May 20
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: One new case of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday that there is one new confirmed case of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Who does know the reasons for keeping island closed?
SINCE Sunday’s national address by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, people in all parts of the country – including this column – have wondered why some islands have been allowed to resume commercial activity, yet others have not.
ALICIA WALLACE: Nothing personal, but sitting in the assembly is not the way to get the job done
It is not unusual to be asked whether or not I have political aspirations or, more directly, told that I need to run in the next general election. This is sometimes an unfriendly challenge.
Family call for body to be released
THE family of deceased Dorian victim Astrid Stratton is calling on the government to release her body, after they claim to have been told by an official this week the missing woman’s remains had been found. Liann Key-Kaighin, speaking to The Tribune
'Govt should be sued if churches not opened'
GRAND Bahama civic leader Rev Glenroy Bethel says the 24-hour curfew and weekend lockdowns are “depriving” Bahamians of their constitutional rights to worship on Saturday and Sunday. He threatening to sue to the government if restrictions are not li
COVID-19 restrictions allow extension for Dorian victims
DORIAN victims have been allowed to stay a little longer at Poinciana Inn, a transition home for many after leaving hurricane shelters, Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell said yesterday. Their stay at the inn was extended in light of COVID-19
NIB has helped 30,000 people so far - Rolle
ABOUT 30,000 people have received unemployment assistance from the National Insurance Board amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Public Service Minister Brensil Rolle, who added that officials will be making additional payments to 6,000 affected
Bride-to-be is looking forward to her Plan B
FOR Olwyn DePutron, getting married in The Bahamas was a dream come true until COVID-19 dashed those plans and put her wedding coordinator in a frenzy.Ms DePutron, a New Yorker, was set to marry Bahamian Cornelius Yee on April 18 at Bahamas Harvest C
‘Nygard staff deleted files’
EMPLOYEES of Peter Nygard allegedly deleted thousands of files from company computers as the FBI raided the fashion mogul’s New York office and California home.
Upgrade to management system
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell said Cabinet has approved funding for a near $700,000 information management system to track all clients and thus reduce waiting time. Before Cabinet yesterday, the minister told the press the government has
Web shops going legal on closure
Several web shops yesterday "lit the candle under" their attorney to file legal action against the Government by tomorrow "at the latest" over their continuing COVID-19 closure.
No decision 'yet' on shedding civil service retirees
The government had made no decision “as yet” on whether it will seek to cut the $670m civil service wage bill by shedding all public sector workers who have reached retirement age. K Peter Turnquest, in brief messaged replies to Tribune Business que
Bahamas urged: Break with fiscal 'false reality'
Bahamians were yesterday urged by a governance reformer to “take off the rose-coloured glasses and get real” over a post-COVID-19 predicament that has pushed the country “over the fiscal edge”.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance
'Stop picking virus winners and losers'
A Bahamian retailer yesterday urged the government to “stop picking winners and losers” in determining which businesses are COVID-19 “essentials” after he was forced to fully terminate 20 staff.Egan Kemp, president of Eunison Company, the Shoe Depot
BISX-listed firms warn on dividends
Several BISX-listed companies have warned shareholders against “undue optimism” that dividend payments will continue given the need to preserve cash and liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both JS Johnson and Family Guardian cautioned investors
Health chief’s answer on why islands stay shut: ‘I HONESTLY DON’T KNOW’
DEPUTY Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen said he does not know why some Family Islands without COVID-19 cases have not been allowed to resume normal commercial activity, saying that is not a Ministry of Health level decision.
Commodore handed new role at ministry
AFTER months of speculation surrounding the future of Commodore Tellis Bethel, Minister of National Security Marvin Dames confirmed yesterday the senior officer will be transferred to the Ministry of National Security, adopting a new role that “will fit right into his skill set”.
Returnees must pay for flight
SANDRA Moss is angry that her son, a college student in Arkansas, has to pay Bahamasair to return to the country this week even though residents who were repatriated here during the first exercise flew on the airline free of charge.
Top javelin thrower Otabor aims for FIU
Rhema Otabor, already established as one of the top junior female javelin throwers in the region, is heading to Florida International University in Miami, Florida, in August.
Lockdown visit to pastor costs man $700
A MAN was fined $700 yesterday after claiming he violated the COVID-19 lockdown on Saturday to visit a pastor in search of food for his family. He was one of five people who appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner for curfew and lockdown infra
Fined for refusing to give name
A 22-year-old man was fined $100 yesterday after refusing to give his name and address to an officer when he was stopped for a traffic violation last week. Brent Taylor appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner charged with failing to give his n
Yes, we have been sold down the river
The late E. Dawson Roberts would frequently quote the unattributed maxim that “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Freedom”.
PHA issues protocols for patients
AFTER a doctor got into a row last month with a patient of PMH’s Dialysis Unit who would not remove his shoes, the Public Hospitals Authority has issued a statement laying out new COVID-19 prevention protocols for the area. According to the guidelin
Dickinson State Hall of Fame: Ramon Miller to be inducted
BAHAMIAN quarter-miler turned policeman Ramon Miller heads the list of persons who will be inducted into the Dickinson State University’s Hall of Fame class for 2020.
Foreign firm removes aragonite permit claim
A Mexican company has removed from its website promotional material claiming it has the necessary approvals to dredge for, and export, “aragonite sand” from Sandy Cay in the northwestern Bahamas.Oceanus International’s website, up until April 25, sta
Minister rejects NIB concerns in Bimini
A Cabinet minister yesterday rejected concerns that many Bimini residents had failed to receive their National Insurance Board (NIB) unemployment benefit prior to the island’s two-week lockdown. Brensil Rolle, minister for the public service with re
COVID-19's big economic rebuild - 2020 and beyond
In the first of a new three-part series, Hubert Edwards looks at the scale of the recovery task confronting The Bahamas in the immediate term and further out The Bahamian economy must be rebuilt following this global crisis. We deliberately avoid
Social services in $700k IT system
The Ministry of Social Services has received the go-ahead to acquire a near-$700,000 information management system that will better track benefits recipients and reduce application turnaround times. Frankie Campbell, pictured , minister for social s
BTC aids Freeport hospital patients
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has provided the Rand Memorial Hospital with mobile devices so patients can talk to their relatives during the COVID-19 lockdown.Visitors are not allowed in the hospital due to the pandemic. Garfield “Garr
Tuesday, May 19
No new confirmed COVID-19 cases for sixth consecutive day
The Ministry of Health is reporting that there are no new confirmed cases of COVID-19 for the sixth consecutive day.
EDITORIAL: Leave no room for doubt - explain these decisions
NATURE abhors a vacuum. So once said the philosopher Aristotle – and just as it is true in physics, so it is true that human nature also abhors a vacuum.
PETER YOUNG: Time to stand up to the blacklisters
The recent news that The Bahamas has been included in yet another European Union anti-financial crime blacklist will have been depressingly familiar to many. The subject seems like a never-ending saga in which our nation, as an international financial centre (IFC), is under unremitting pressure from the EU and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to satisfy their forever changing demands.
FACE TO FACE: Anything is possible - the only limit is imagination
The first time I heard Drew Harmony sing, I was in awe. His voice is smooth and sultry and I was immediately taken back to a time when R&B was in its prime. His buttery yet bold voice made me stop and listen and I have been a fan ever since.
Minnis backs draft resolution put forward by WHO
ACKNOWLEDGING the destabilising effect Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19 have had on The Bahamas in the last year, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis expressed support for the World Health Organisation’s work in a speech during the body’s general assembly m
Keva Bain elected president of World Health Assembly
MEMBERS of the 73rd World Health Assembly have elected Bahamian Keva Bain as the body’s president. Ms Bain is The Bahamas’ permanent representative to the United Nations. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be the first time that the two-day sess
'I've been stuck in Nassau for two months'
EXUMA resident Genia Knowles came to New Providence to support her fiancee who had minor surgery in March and has been stuck here since the COVID-19 border closures. The 31-year-old and her partner have been in the capital for almost two months and
Golfer Justin Rose and his wife donate $100,000 to community
Lend a Hand Bahamas, a Bahamian non-profit organization has announced a charitable contribution of $100,000 from the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation. This donation will enhance vital food security in the community of Adelaide in Nassau, Bahamas for the next 10 weeks.
Retailer calls for easing of restrictions
A LOCAL retailer is calling on the government to further ease COVID-19 restrictions on businesses in the clothing industry, saying the current curbside and delivery services are not working. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, the store’s representat
Judge: Medical Council 'undermined its integrity'
The Supreme Court has blasted the Bahamas Medical Council (BMC) for “undermining its integrity” through improperly accessing a doctor’s “confidential” employment file held by a government agency. Justice Ian Winder, in an April 22, 2020, ruling, fou
$16m debt?: ‘Just the way Bahamas normally operates’
The Water & Sewerage Corporation’s main supplier yesterday reassured the capital markets that the $16m debt currently owed to it by the state-run utility is “just the way The Bahamas operates”.
'Level playing field' on Family Island re-open
Eleuthera’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday called for “a level playing field” on the re-opening of Family Island economies, and warned: “The well-being of communities across this island is at stake.” Thomas Sands, in a messaged reply to Tri
Phew! Govts relief port not given to cruise lines
The government is breathing a sigh of relief that it did not award Nassau cruise port’s multi-million dollar transformation to the cruise line consortium given COVID-19’s disruption, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister
Marinas 'chomping at bit' to lead re-opening
Bahamian marinas are “chomping at the bit” to re-open before the wider tourism industry in a bid to make multi-million dollar inroads into the lucrative yacht charter market, it was revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviat
‘Why are they still closed?’: Islanders angry at lack of answers on keeping them shut
RESIDENTS in Family Islands without COVID-19 have criticised the government’s decision for not allowing Exuma, Eleuthera and San Salvador to resume commercial activities, saying it’s unfair that some islands without cases are given certain freedoms, while others are not.
Man and teenager on murder charges
A MAN and a juvenile were arraigned in Freeport yesterday in connection with last week’s double murders in Grand Bahama.
Memorial motorcade: 13 held on breaking curfew
A FRIDAY motorcade in South Eleuthera celebrating the life of a beloved resident who died last week resulted in police arresting 13 people on the island yesterday, including 12 women and one man.
RBDF chief ‘holiday’ - now it’s farewell
RAYMOND King will formally take over the command of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force at a ceremony this Thursday, putting an end to speculation about the return of Commodore Tellis Bethel.
Curry-Turnquest dies on her 63rd birthday
THE softball community is mourning the loss of Molere Curry-Turnquest.
Deciding to stretch his back costs Andros man $600
AN Andros man who claimed he violated the lockdown because he was in his vehicle all day and needed to stretch his back was fined $600 yesterday. The man, who said he was living in his car, was among several people who appeared before Magistrate San
Teenager fined for selling 'non-essential' coconuts
A TEEN was fined $700 for selling coconuts on the side of the street in breach of the national curfew and emergency orders put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Jason Williams, 18, appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner charged with viol
Cooper Jr graduates from Drake University
It took a little longer than expected, but after five years of juggling his time and energy in academics, sports, church and the community, versatile, multi-talented Michael Cooper Jr has now graduated from Drake University.
Man admits assault after attacking his room-mate
A 40-year-old man was ordered to pay $300 or spend two months in prison after he assaulted his room--mate and his room-mate’s girlfriend last weekend. Aaron Armbrister appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner charged with two counts of assault
Standing in the bread line
A few months ago, while appearing live, large and in charge at a political event at the Edmund Moxey Park off Blue Hill Road, the PM announced that “the campaign” was on. I am certain that he, not being a known prophet, had absolutely no idea how correct he would have been. Had he known better he would have talked about other issues and matters of concern. Indeed it has often been said: “Be careful what you ask or wish for”.
Sastre Jr commits to join Seahawks
BAHAMIAN water polo continues to increase in international profile and produce collegiate prospects.
Trio to join Pioneers basketball club this fall
A trio of Bahamian hoop prospects will make the transition as teammates from the prep to the collegiate level.
Aviation industry calls for reopen 'guidance'
The Bahamian aviation industry needs details and “guidance” on all the health and safety protocols it will need to implement so that it can re-open to inter-island and international commercial travel once again. Anthony K Hamilton, president of the
BISX celebrates 20th anniversary
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) last week celebrated 20 years since it began electronic trading on May 12, 2000, as a “proud day” that signals it has become a key part of the “financial landscape”. Incorporated on September 23,
Storm manufacturers: Phone has not stopped
Manufacturers of hurricane-resistant windows and doors yesterday said “the phone has not stopped ringing” on the first day they were permitted to conduct business following the COVID-19 lockdown. Lilla Smith-Mosby, Bahamas Aluminum Manufacturing Com
Economic Recovery team's dual strategy
The government-appointed Economic Recovery Committee (ERC) says it is focused on a dual strategy as it begins a seven-week public consultation exercise seeking recommendations on ten key sectors.The committee, appointed in the wake of the economic sh
Chamber chief: 'Progress on reopening is occurring'
The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive has reassured that “progress is being made” on reopening the Bahamian economy despite the outcry over restrictions being left in place on some Family Islands. Jeffrey Beckles acknowledged that more work is n
Govt urged: End Abaco lockdown
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president is urging the prime minister to “revisit” a weekend lockdown that “makes no sense” with Dorian-ravaged residents now racing against time to prepare for the new hurricane season. Ken Hutton told Tribune Business
$250m PI investment 'shakes off' lockdown
Sterling Global Financial’s $250m Hurricane Hole redevelopment is “shaking off” the COVID-19 lockdown with a construction restart that has brought 75 Bahamians back to work.The Paradise Island-based project has resumed with masks and social distancin
More than 350 set to attend financial services briefing
More than 350 financial services executives had confirmed they will attend tomorrow’s government briefing that will be led by remarks from Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. The virtual symposium is being staged by the Ministry of Financial Services,
Monday, May 18
COVID-19: No new cases for fifth consecutive day
The Ministry of Health has reported that there are no newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 for the fifth consecutive day.
WORLD VIEW: Attacking Golding does not change demand for a credible Guyana elections result
IN the wake of a report to the Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States (OAS) on the Guyana general elections of March 2, the Head of the Electoral Mission (EOM), former Jamaica Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, has been accused of being “exceptionally partisan” and “hostile to the nation and people of Guyana”.
INSIGHT: We can buy ourselves time but there's no fix without testing
As Biminites brace themselves for a painful 14-day lockdown, we are hoping for the best for our brothers and sisters. Knowing how taxing prevention measures have been for many Bahamians, the psychological and socio-economic collateral damage of a two-week lockdown is not to be taken lightly.
Psychologist warns anxiety and stress a 'dangerous cocktail'
By TANYA SMITH-CARTWRIGHTtsmith-cartwright@tribunemedia.netA local psychologist said financial stress from an economic downturn compounded with anxiety and isolation from the COVID-19 lockdown is a “dangerous cocktail” affecting many Bahamians.Dr Way
INSIGHT: 'Nine months on all we want is an answer - where is she?'
FOR many Hurricane Dorian survivors in Abaco, the process of picking up the pieces of their lives has already begun. But, nearly eight months after the deadly storm hit the island- residents still struggle to gain a sense of normalcy.
Family denies ‘fake news’ about son’s death
FORMER Transport Minister Neko Grant and his family have hit out at “fake vicious news’’ surrounding the death of his son, Neko Grant Jr.
Relief as hunting trip trio found
THE FAMILIES of three North Andros residents can breathe a sigh of relief after they were found almost two days after getting lost on a hunting trip.
PLP criticises Minnis for island selection
MEMBERS of the Progressive Liberal Party chastised Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for not allowing Exuma, Eleuthera and San Salvador to resume normal commercial activity like many other Family Islands without COVID-19 cases.
Repatriation flights to resume this week
A WEEK after the government suspended the repatriation flights of Bahamians stuck abroad, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday that those flights will resume this week, allowing Bahamians to return home.
BPL SkyGUARD Heavy Rain Warning (4PM-5.20PM)
STARTS: 05/18/2020 02.40 PM EDT EXPIRES: 05/18/2020 7:00 PM EDT
Warning new loans could be expensive
Fears have been raised that the Government's debt costs may double with any new COVID-19 foreign currency borrowings it undertakes as a result of unfavourable secondary market conditions.
In the bag - Global has port funding
Nassau Cruise Port's top executive yesterday hailed the "monumental achievement" in beating its $130m capital raising target amid the economic turmoil created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Atlantis chief sees 'light at tunnel end'
Atlantis’s top executive says there is “light at the end of the tunnel” as the Paradise Island mega resort targets the June 15 re-opening of its Royal Towers as the first stage in a phased return. Audrey Oswell, the property’s president and managing
Govt is urged: 'Let Bahamians thrive'
The entrepreneur behind the proposed $2m restoration of Paradise Island’s lighthouse is urging the government to “get out the way and let all Bahamians thrive” in a bid to reboot the economy after COVID-19. Toby Smith, principal of Paradise Island L
Water Corp slashes debt to main supplier by $2m
The Water & Sewerage Corporation reduced the debt owed to its main BISX-listed supplier by almost $2m during April 2020 despite suffering a 61 percent revenue decline for the same month.
OPENING UP: PM sets target date of July 1 to reopen borders
GOVERNMENT officials are considering resuming commercial travel in the country “on or before” July 1, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday as he revealed the government’s long-awaited plans to “gradually” resume domestic travel.
EDITORIAL: Light at the end of the tunnel
THE countdown to reopening has begun.
Fears as Bimini gets ready for lockdown
RESIDENTS of Bimini said while they have prepared “as best they could” for the two-week lockdown which begins today but fear provisions may not be enough for some households struggling to make ends meet. Pertrisa Saunders from Bailey Town, Bimini, s
Court dismisses attempted murder appeal
THE Court of Appeal has dismissed a man’s attempt to have his convictions for attempted murder, armed robbery and burglary overturned. Omar Miller had appealed his convictions which stemmed from a trial before Justice Estelle Gray-Evans in Freeport,
‘I would love to be home’
While he was not fortunate to get out of the United States of America before the Bahamas Government closed its border for international travel because of the spread of the coronavirus, former Major League Baseball player turned coach Antoan Richardson is making the best of his conditions in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Joseph named Most Valuable track and field team member
TRAVIS Joseph’s stellar freshman season was recognised by his Valley City State Vikings when the programme announced its postseason awards.
Rising tennis star Major Jr off to promising career
HE’S off to a promising career as one of the rising young tennis players in the country. But like everybody else, Michael Major Jr has been forced to work out from home with no activities for players in the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association or the International Tennis Federation as a result of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
My memory of Michael will never fade
On Friday, April 24, The Tribune reported that paperboy Michael died after a car accident. According to the newspaper article, Michael was going to the Guardian to get papers. As he was walking he had a seizure. A car ended up rolling over him. He was hospitalised for one month before he died.
The last thing we need right now is austerity
Government should be wary of the voices out there that are using the Covid-19 pandemic to promote their own agendas by advocating fiscal austerity as a response to the crisis.
DOUGLASS NAMED FOR US AMBASSADOR
PRESIDENT Donald Trump has announced his intention to nominate entrepreneur and philanthropist William A Douglass as US ambassador to The Bahamas.
Working from home, the first coronavirus megatrend
The economic fallout from the COVID-19 containment measures is well known, with GDP contracting across the globe at a pace not seen since at least the Second World War. City centres normally effervescent with activity became almost deserted, as did t
Energy reform still untapped resource
Reforms geared towards improving The Bahamas’ energy security are critical to building greater economic resilience and diversification. In the previous Island Insight column, I pointed out that tourism and other services-based industries are not idea
Gaming Board appeals '24 redundant' verdict
The Gaming Board is arguing that a Supreme Court judgment makes a key part of the Employment Act irrelevant as it appeals against the reinstatement of 24 dismissed line workers and managerial staff. The regulator, in a May 7, 2020, filing of its “no
Still-closed Family islands bewildered
Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce president last night said he was baffled that the island has not been included among those allowed to fully re-open their economies despite having no COVID-19 cases.Pedro Rolle told Tribune Business: “No explanation was gi
Development Bank in digital loan execution
The Bahamas Development Bank says its investment in technology has paid-off by reducing the time taken to process COVID-19 emergency loan applications from small and medium-sized businesses. The state-owned institution, whose Cable Beach and Freepor
Sunday, May 17
COVID-19 makes it hard to plan for hurricane - Albury
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP James Albury indicated shelters on Abaco have already been activated in anticipation of bad weather from a passing tropical depression on the weekend. This comes as June 1, the start of a hurricane season, approaches and a
PM’s address: No new COVID-19 cases for fourth consecutive day
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minis said we are continuing to make progress in containing the spread of COVID-19, with no new cases for the fourth day in a row.
Saturday, May 16
Son of former MP Neko Grant dies
Neko Grant Jr, the only son of former Free National Movement MP and cabinet minister Neko Grant, has died.
Friday, May 15
UPDATES: South Beach COVID-19 Urgent Care and Referral Centre, Flamingo Gardens Clinic
The Ministry of Health wishes to remind the general public that the South Beach COVID-19 Urgent Care and Referral Centre is open and only accessible to COVID-19 related cases.
Ministry 'satisfied' Grand Bahama passenger did not pose risk
MINISTRY of Health officials say they feel “satisfied” that the Grand Bahama passenger who initially tested positive for COVID-19 and has now tested negative for the virus did not present a risk to other passengers aboard the government’s repatriation flight.
'I have never felt so sick in my life': Bahamian living in US describes COVID-19 nightmare
A BAHAMIAN living in the US who is recovering from COVID-19 said the virus was a nightmare that she thought would take her life.
App to monitor those in self-isolation
THE Ministry of Health has signed a contract for a web and mobile app which will provide a 24-hour monitoring service for those in self-isolation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prison inspector accused of drug possession
A PRISON inspector faced court on Friday accused of possession of dangerous drugs.
Woman killed in traffic accident named
THE woman fatally injured in a traffic accident in Grand Bahama this week has been identified as 77-year-old Ednamae Emmanuel, of Barnette Avenue, Holmes Rock.
Family Islands with no COVID-19 could see relaxation of restrictions
THERE could be a further relaxation of restrictions on more Family Islands with no COVID-19 cases, according to consultant to the Office of the Prime Minister Dr Merceline Dahl-Regis.
THE PRESS BOX: In COVID-19 pandemic, ‘Thank god for game replays on YouTube’
AS we continue to get through the COVID-19 pandemic, and things slowly return to normalcy, pro sports continue to remain sidelined, leaving sports fans with nothing of substance to fill the sports void.
EDITORIAL: Will the nation pass this test?
The strongest action yet taken to curtail the spread of COVID-19 was announced yesterday by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis – the lockdown of Bimini for the rest of the month.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Is it time to bite the bullet and sell Bank of The Bahamas?
The time has come to sell Bank of The Bahamas.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Politics is a trail of M&Ms
AS we saunter through the COViD-19 global pandemic, with social distancing protocols still in effect, nightly curfews and weekend lockdowns continuing. We saw things get even more interesting, with a complete two week, 24-hour island wide lockdown in Bimini,
BPL Skyguard Heavy Rain, Wind Warning (May 14th-May 16th)
Periods of rain and thunderstorms will impact the area through Saturday morning as a broad area of low pressure develops over the area. Rainfall totals through Saturday morning will average 2-4 inches and can result in some flooding.
MINISTRY PRESS CONFERENCE: No new COVID-19 cases, 41 patients recovered
Speaking at the Ministry’s press conference, Dr Merceline Dahl-Regis said 41 patients have recovered so far and it’s been three weeks since a COVID-19 related death.
Webshops gearing up to challenge close order
Several web shops will take legal action over the sector’s renewed closure as early as Monday if they do not receive the desired response from the Prime Minister’s Office, a prominent QC revealed yesterday.
Family Islands ‘ready to open’
Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce chief says “there’s no reason” why all Family Islands other than Bimini should not have their full economic reopening included in the next wave of COVID-19 relaxations.
GB Power bond 'backstopped' by $60m guarantee
Grand Bahama Power Company’s Canadian parent is providing an “up to $60m guarantee” to give investors extra comfort the utility will repay $25m worth of bonds when they mature next Friday.Dave McGregor, GB Power’s chief executive, explained to Tribun
Stem cell provider in May 28 wind-up
A pioneering Freeport-based stem cell therapy provider faces being placed into Supreme Court-supervised liquidation on May 28 over a “wholly unpaid” $12m debt owed to its main lender.The failure of the Okyanos Centre for Regenerative Medicine has bee
Use COVID crisis to shatter 'protectionist dependence' on elite
The COVID-19 crisis has given The Bahamas “a fantastic opportunity” to do away with the “protectionism” surrounding foreign direct investment (FDI) and “the merchant elite”, an ex-attorney general urged yesterday. Alfred Sears QC told Tribune Busine
‘Luann’s death was no accident’
THE landlord of a woman killed in a hit and run last year believes she was intentionally mowed down and that the incident was not an accident.
‘Better late than never’: Residents say action needed earlier to help stop Bimini outbreak
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced a two-week lockdown of Bimini yesterday after two new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on the island, bringing the total there to 13 and the country’s total to 96.
Webshops economic vampires
As is commonly known, the public health crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in most of our economy being shut down.
Health chief 'deeply concerned' about growth of virus in Americas
THE director of the Pan American Health Organization, Carissa Etienne, called on countries to address health, social and economic emergencies, saying she is “deeply concerned” by the rapid expansion of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic in the A
Illnesses in children being monitored after signs rare disease could be linked to coronavirus
HEALTH officials are “actively” searching for signs of inflammatory illnesses among children who tested positive for COVID-19 after international reports have revealed that a rare disease found in children could be linked to the virus. The New York
Barbers and hairdressers waiting for opening go-ahead
WITH hair salons and barber shops closed, one local businessman said the COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a huge blow to his income and he is desperate to reopen. Besieged with calls from clients wanting to get their hair done, Trevor Johnson, general ma
Woman who made threat sent to anger management
A 36-year-old woman who was accused of threatening to kill another woman and her children has been ordered to attend anger management classes. Vernencha Deal appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with one count of making death threats aft
Discharge for man who visited pregnant girlfriend during curfew
A MAGISTRATE discharged a man who was charged with violating the national curfew after the accused explained he only left his home to visit his pregnant girlfriend who was experiencing some difficulties.He was among several people who appeared before
$1,000 fine or six months in jail for drug possession
A 39-year-old man was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine or face six months in prison for drug possession yesterday.He was among several men who appeared in Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Andrew Forbes for drug-related offences. Many of those charged
Power out at BPL
It is amazing that on Saturday past and just yesterday (Tuesday, 12th instant) there were island-wide power outages for hours on end without a coherent explanation from Bahamas Power & Light.
Tropical weather conditions expected to hit Grand Bahama
WITH a tropical depression system approaching the northern Bahamas this weekend, East End residents are preparing for the severe tropical conditions that are expected to hit Grand Bahama tomorrow. The system will bring heavy rain and high winds in t
$30,000 to aid home
THE Grand Bahama Children’s Home received a $30,000 cheque donation this week to assist with hurricane renovation at the facility.The funds, which were donated by Family Guardian and Sargicor Financial Corporation, is earmarked for the refurbishment
Bain’s jersey, shoes in Hall of Fame
It’s not every day that a Bahamian basketball player gets to hit a momentous, game-winning shot for his team to pull off one of the biggest upsets in college basketball. The performance was so significant that Nathan Bain will get his Stephen F Austin Lumberjack jersey and tennis shoes donated to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Mackey Jr named EBA’s Eurobasket Player of the Year
BAHAMIAN pro basketball player Willis Mackey Jr received league-wide recognition for a standout rookie season in Spain.
Supplies, income fear over Bimini lockdown
Bimini business owners yesterday voiced fears that residents will have insufficient food supplies and income to last for the two-week island lockdown that takes effect this coming Monday. Percy Duncombe, Sue and Joy General Store’s general manager,
Eleuthera Business forum's webinar plan
The annual Eleuthera Business Outlook conference will be held over two days via a series of webinars on May 21-22.The Counsellors is teaming with the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce to stage the free event under the theme Post-COVID-19 readiness and pr
New Bahamas Waste recruits play key roles amid pandemic
Bahamas Waste says it has been bolstering its ranks with Bahamian recruits at all levels - some of whom are playing key roles amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Jasmine Davis, a newcomer to the waste management industry, joined the BISX-listed provider in
How to survive in COVID-19's storm
The entire Bahamian private sector is feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but none more so than the mortar that binds the foundation of our economy - small businesses. For micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), it is more impor
Briland developer: Ex-manager cost me $2m
A Harbour Island developer says his former $21,000-per month project manager’s “negligence” in failing to obtain key permits has cost him more than $2m and delayed the project by ten months. Michael Wiener, principal of 4M Harbour Island Ltd, is bla
Construction in 'full force' for GoldWynn Residences
Construction was yesterday said to have resumed in “full force” at the multi-million dollar GoldWynn Residences project at Goodman’s Bay with more than 125 people back to work. The developer, the Wynn Group, in an e-mailed response to Tribune Busine
Scotiabank in credit card deferral move
A Bahamian commercial bank is offering up to a six-month deferral on credit card payments for persons affected by the COVID-19 shutdown. Scotiabank Bahamas, in a release sent to Tribune Business , said: “Scotiabank retail customers with credit cards
Restaurant owners eye social distance strategy
Restaurant and bar owners are already plotting how their establishments can re-open in compliance with COVID-19 health and safety protocols despite some suffering revenue declines of up to 95 percent. Peter Maury, owner of the Green Parrot and Marga
Thursday, May 14
'There must be a plan for social distancing in schools'
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers has argued a plan must be in place for all aspects of the educational system before teachers and students return, questioning how social distancing will take place in crowded classrooms.According to a union document titled “
THURSDAY UPDATE: Two newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health has reported that there are two newly confirmed cases of COVID-19. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 96.
FRONT PORCH: It’s hard to hear truth in an echo chamber of whining negativity
Last weekend, the video of a young lady who had just returned home and was in government-sponsored quarantine at Breezes Hotel quickly went viral as she whined and complained about everything including the snack she was given prior to the dinner she received later.
STATESIDE: Deep down in the gutter as the body count keeps rising
It was probably inevitable, but it still feels disappointing.
'Crime down, despite three murders in week'
DESPITE three murders happening so far this week, National Security Minister Marvin Dames said crime is down in the country. He said there is still a concern of someone being murdered or getting injured, adding he has been hearing from the police co
Rand set for bad weather
WITH severe weather expected to affect the central and northwest Bahamas this weekend, officials of Rand Memorial Hospital in Grand Bahama are taking extra precautions ahead of the system to secure patients in Samaritan’s Purse tents.
Minister supports Thompson elevation
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames has defended the promotion of Debra Thompson, the lead investigator of bribery complaints against former Cabinet minister Shane Gibson. Despite the criticism towards her rise in rank to Superintendent from Ass
'I'm afraid and worried. I just feel like I'm in a hole even talking about this'
LIFE for Juliet Dann has never been harder than it is now. The 48-year-old is caring for her four children, including one who is suffering from a debilitating eye disease in the United States, while sometimes living in a house without necessities as
Music Makers helping those hit by virus
IN an effort to assist those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a local Junkanoo group will be distributing meal packages each week to vulnerable members in its community. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, leader of Music Makers Keith Mason said th
Aviation's 'golden opportunity' with COVID-19 reply
The Bahamian aviation industry may take 12-18 months to fully re-open, an industry operator forecast yesterday, adding that COVID-19 presents “a golden opportunity” to realise the sector’s potential. Anthony K Hamilton, president of the Bahamas Asso
'Divine intervention' need on COVID-19
A trade union leader last night said The Bahamas’ requires “divine intervention” to counter a COVID-19 economic fall-out that could reach “Biblical proportions”.Bernard Evans, the National Congress of Trade Unions of The Bahamas (NCTUB) president, de
Three-year 'VAT credit' to boost Family Islands
The government is being urged to use a three-year system of VAT credits to rescue Family Island businesses and encourage investment by their owners in a bid to revive these economies post-COVID-19.The proposal is contained in documents submitted to t
Pandemic 'complicates' Abaco's Dorian rebuild
The COVID-19 pandemic has “created a lot of complications” for Abaco’s post-Dorian rebuilding with another hurricane season just weeks away, Tribune Business was told yesterday. Lance Pinder, Abaco Big Bird Poultry’s operations manager, told Tribune
BPL Skyguard Heavy Rain, Wind Warning (May 14th-May 16th)
STARTS: 05/14/2020 08:00 PM EDT EXPIRES: 05/16/2020 10:00 AM EDT
Bimini to go under full lockdown
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has announced that Bimini will be under a full lockdown starting from Monday.
WHEN CAN WE COME HOME? Families stranded by travel ban feel abandoned in US
HURRICANE Dorian survivors stuck in the US amid the COVID-19 pandemic say they feel abandoned by the government after receiving no response from embassy or government officials on when they will be allowed to return home.
Dames defends police on lockdown parties
AS yet another video of a lockdown party raises eyebrows, National Security Minister Marvin Dames lamented yesterday that law enforcement cannot police everywhere all the time.
BPL union assured jobs safe
THE union representing Bahamas Power and Light workers said it has been assured there will be no layoffs at the power provider amid economic uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teleos Cherubims will cherish 2020 accomplishments
THE spread of the coronavirus has not only interrupted the flow of sports worldwide, but it has forced the closure of schools as well.
Grand Bahama victims named
Grand Bahama Police have officially released the names of the double homicide victims as 48-year-old Kim Maria Smith, and 24-year-old Denny Terano Rolle.
WBC ‘casualty’ for top minor league players
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to force cancellations throughout the baseball world with the 2021 World Baseball Classic reportedly the latest casualty.
Drivers told to slow down
POLICE in Grand Bahama are warning motorists not to speed after a woman was killed in a traffic accident this week.
RBDF promotions expected shortly
PROMOTIONS for Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) officers are likely to be announced soon, National Security Minister Marvin Dames suggested. Mr Dames did not want to preempt the announcement, saying it is up to the RBDF commodore to reveal the pro
Court orders retrial over manslaughter charge
THE Court of Appeal has overturned the verdict of a man who was found guilty of manslaughter in a 2009 killing. Xavier Taylor killed James Gardiner on November 2, 2009 after the two had an altercation. Taylor argued that he stabbed Gardiner in self-defence.
Fined for bringing his son's medication
A MAN who claimed he violated the national curfew to drop his son’s medication at the boy’s grandmother’s house was fined $500 yesterday. He was among several people who appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes for curfew and lockdown infractions, i
I'll do better, says man sent to drug counselling classes
A 25-year-old man was ordered to attend drug counselling classes after pleading guilty to drug possession in Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Kirkwood Hall Jr appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with two counts of possession of dangerous d
COVID-19 pandemic affects the international signing period
MAJOR League Baseball continues to make adjustments to its schedule of operations and a reduction in the amateur draft could delay the international signing period, a time when many Bahamian prospects have signed minor league deals in recent years.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Giving pictures a sharper touch
Capturing sharp images is ideal but not realistic in all photography scenarios. Taking a picture with little to no blur is particularly hard in low light conditions, settings where the colour of your subject approximates the colour of the background,
US supply chain woe hits Bahamas retailers
Supply shortages due to COVID-19’s impact on the US are hitting Bahamian hardware and building materials stores, several operators confirmed yesterday. Flora Davis, general manager of Davis Plumbing and Hardware, told Tribune Business: “Business is
Wednesday, May 13
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: One newly confirmed case of COVID-19
The Ministry of Heath reported on Wednesday that there is one newly confirmed case of COVID-19 in The Bahamas.
EDITORIAL: Promises, promises from BPL
IF ever there was a group of managers fretting nervously over their company’s performance, it would be the top executives at Bahamas Power & Light.
ALICIA WALLACE: We knew what we were getting but things really do now need to change
We have known for some time that we have a leadership problem. We have a political landscape problem. We have an electoral process problem. We have a system that does not work for us and has led to results, election after election, that have been subpar at best.
Installing new bridge 'a priority'
NEARLY a week after the bridge connecting Spanish Wells and Russell Island collapsed, Minister of Works Desmond Bannister said yesterday that construction workers are “actively working” to deconstruct the damaged bridge and replace it with a new one.
'Impossible to restore power to Abaco before 2020 hurricane season'
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said it’s “impossible” for electricity to be fully restored on Abaco before the start of the 2020 hurricane season, adding the level of destruction left by Hurricane Dorian has created several challenges for officials
Christian Council does not endorse threats against PM
THE Bahamas Christian Council does not endorse threats against the prime minister, Christian Council president Bishop Delton Fernander said yesterday in the wake of a female pastor’s ultimatum on the opening of church during the COVID-19 lockdown.In
‘Focus is to get tourism industry back on track’
THE government is looking at several dates to resume tourism operations in the country, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar revealed yesterday.
Man killed, another in hospital after shooting
A MAN is dead and another is in hospital after a shooting off Cowpen Road last night.
Duchess thanks Sandilands nurses in video call
IN celebration of International Nurses’ Day, the Duchess of Cambridge commended nurses from Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre for the service they provide during the health crisis.
'We'll never let cruise lines bypass Nassau'
The government will use “whatever means are necessary” to ensure the cruise industry does not bypass Nassau and other “major population centres” post-COVID-19, a Cabinet minister pledged yesterday. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviatio
Communications sector rebounds from 5-year low
The Bahamian electronic communications industry recovered from a five-year low in 2018 to grow its total revenues by three percent to $390m in 2019, sector regulators have revealed. The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), in its 2
COVID-19 makes BPL’s reliability ‘far more critical’
The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday said the COVID-19 pandemic has made it “even more critical” that Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) provides stable energy supply.
BPL outage ‘once in a blue moon event’
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) island-wide blackout was caused by a “once in a blue moon” event, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, adding that he was “more comfortable than I’ve ever been” about summer reliability.
Developer slammed on 'outrageous' airport fees
Norman’s Cay homeowners and the Bahamian aviation industry yesterday blasted the “outrageous” fees imposed by the island’s private airport operator in a bid to recover some of its $10m investment in the facility.Tribune Business was told that Exuma R
‘Resign - What for? it’s time to move on’
Tourism Minister Dionsio D’Aguilar said yesterday he doesn’t believe he should have resigned along with former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands because of his involvement in allowing six permanent residents entry in the country nearly two weeks ago.
Operator error caused blackout
RESIDENTS throughout New Providence were left angry yesterday after an island-wide blackout. With many people working from home and students completing classes and exams online, the blackout left thousands of people frustrated.
New grants worth $200k for Dorian relief
The Moore Bahamas Foundation (“Moore Bahamas”) has announced $200,000 in new grants for Hurricane Dorian relief and recovery, bringing their contributions thus far to more than $500,000 as part of conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon’s million-dol
Heavy rain and winds on the way
WEATHER officials predict extended periods of heavy rain and gusty winds for the northwest and central Bahamas over the next few days bringing the risk of flooding in low lying areas. Local meteorologist Basil Dean told The Tribune Bahamians can ant
Trip for some snacks ends up costing $400
A MAN who claimed he violated the lockdown because he was trying to withdraw cash from an ATM to buy some snacks from the store before it closed was fined $400 yesterday. Charles Eneas, 46, appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes after officers fou
Grand Bahama nurses encouraged to 'push through these difficult times'
On the occasion of International Nurses Day, nurses in Grand Bahama were encouraged to be strong and push through these difficult times facing them in healthcare, particularly amid the COVID-19 crisis. At a special ceremony held yesterday, Pastor La
Pair accused of murder
TWO 22-year-old men were charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday with murdering another man last week. Jonathan Armbrister and Jonavan Armbrister appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with the death of Jeffrey Fowler on May 5. According t
Bimini death was not due to virus but heart failure
A WOMAN who died on Bimini this week did not test positive for COVID-19 before her death, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen said yesterday. An autopsy will be performed to determine the woman’s cause of death. Officials previously said t
Police investigate traffic fatality
Grand Bahama Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred in Holmes Rock, West Grand Bahama. Officials reported that the accident happened at Section A Holmes Rock and that the victim had died at the scene.Details were sketchy up
University student ordered to attend drug counselling
A 24-year-old man was ordered to attend drug counselling sessions after he pleaded guilty to marijuana possession yesterday. Ralph Walker II appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with possession of Indian hemp after officers found two gra
Dispelling a few myths
If I may give an address to the graduating students of 2020.
Look at internet control
For those of us who watch TV on WIFI, that familiar circling on screen as the image and sound lags behind due to inadequate bandwidth, it’s enough to drive you crazy. Of course as the peak use hours surge and retreat, you know that a few more users have connected to the network.
Spence has second successful bone marrow transplant in US
A week before the United States of America shut down the country because of the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, Bahamian coach Fritz Spence had his second successful bone marrow transplant surgery to help him overcome his battle with leukemia (AML).
Pilot 3-on-3 basketball tournament ‘is coming’ in August
WHILE no definitive date has been set yet for the resumption of sporting activities in the country, the Bahamas Basketball Federation is looking forward to hosting a pilot 3-on-3 basketball tournament in August that is mandated by FIBA - the governing body for basketball worldwide - with the view of returning to the regular 5-on-5 basketball tournaments.
Suspects held for Grand Bahama deaths
Grand Bahama Police have several people in custody in connection with the latest double homicides on Grand Bahama, a senior police official said yesterday.
Tourism in 'advanced' stage on recovery plan
The Bahamian tourism industry was yesterday said to have reached an “advanced stage” in crafting a plan for its recovery and market re-entry through a process involving multiple stakeholders. The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), in a st
Focus on compliance, not Europe's blacklist
Life is about perspective and so is business. There were various public comments denouncing the European Commission’s actions when it last week essentially “blacklisted” The Bahamas yet again. What appears to have concerned both public officials and
Tourism awaits health 'green light' to re-open
The Bahamian tourism industry is awaiting the “green light” from the Ministry of Health on when it can re-open to foreign visitors, a Cabinet minister said yesterday. Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured , minister of tourism and aviation, speaking outside
Taxi drivers seek 'sanitisation booth'
The Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s (BTCU) president yesterday called for the creation of “sanitisation booths” to ensure vehicles are sanitised after every fare once the economy is re-opened after the COVID-19 lockdown.Wesley Ferguson told Tribune Business
Tuesday, May 12
Grand Bahama passenger has now tested negative for COVID-19
THE Grand Bahama passenger who initially tested positive for COVID-19 has now tested negative for the disease, the Ministry of Health reported last night.
TUESDAY UPDATE: No newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday that there are no newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Clear communication must be the lesson
IN the wake of the resignation of Health Minister Dr Duane Sands, there were clear lessons to be learned. The slow revelation of more information about how a COVID-19 positive passenger got on board a repatriation flight shows that some skipped those lessons.
PETER YOUNG – Stiff upper lips as Britain remembers and vows: we’ll meet again (just not for a little bit)
Last week’s commemorations and celebrations in Britain of the landmark 75th anniversary of VE-Day have been described as a joyous demonstration of national pride. May 8, 1945 marked the end of the Second World War in Europe - and being in the coronavirus lockdown did not stop people paying tribute to those who had saved them from the tyranny of Nazi Germany. In the words of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as he urged his fellow countrymen and women to take inspiration from the generation that had won the war, “We are free because of everything they did”.
FACE TO FACE: The passion’s still ablaze in ‘Fireman’ Brown
He is one of the most beloved track stars in the country. He is a husband, father and a coach, having mentored hundreds of kids in The Bahamas and in America. He has travelled the world and has stood on an Olympic pedestal with a gold medal.
Budget must be creative, warns Bowe
A FORMER Chamber of Commerce chairman said yesterday the government’s 2020/2021 Budget will have to be creative with its limited resources amid the COVID-19 crisis.
We don't want any tourists here, say Cat Islanders
WITH no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the island, Cat Island residents are anxious about the inevitable return of domestic and international tourists and do not want visitors on their shores right now.
Infected traveller was not on airline flight list
THE man who flew to Grand Bahama on Friday despite testing positive for COVID-19 was one of four people from the same household who were not on Bahamasair’s initial list of people slated to join the government’s repatriation exercise.
Prisoner wins Exuma murder appeal
THE Court of Appeal has overturned the 20-year manslaughter sentence of a man who was accused of robbing and killing another man in Exuma six years ago.
'Breezes? It's been a delight'
WHILE some Bahamians who have returned home on government repatriation flights on Friday have issues with being quarantined at Breezes resort, one legally blind woman is looking on the bright side.
Grand Lucayan's buyer: 'We've secured liquidity'
The joint venture purchaser/developer of Freeport’s Grand Lucayan resort last night said it has “secured the required liquidity” for its planned $300m project and will shortly discuss “timelines” with the government. Robert Shamosh, Holistica Destin
PM douses PLP fire on Bahamas Ferries charges
The prime minister was last night said to have sold his ownership interest in Bahamas Ferries after coming under fire from political opponents over changes made in the latest Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Order. Philip Davis, the Progressive Liberal P
COVID-19’s ‘last chance’ for Freeport’s resurrection
The COVID-19 pandemic is “the last opportunity to resurrect Freeport” and create a platform for the Bahamian economy’s “resurgence”, an outspoken QC argued yesterday.
URCA targets ‘accuracy’ of BPL fuel levy
Energy regulators are prioritsing the creation of a formula for determining how Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) calculates the fuel charge component of customers’ bills to ensure it “accurately reflects” true costs.
‘Totally devastating’: Water corp revenues shrink 61%
Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic have dealt a “completely devastating” blow to the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s cash flow with April revenues down 61 percent, its executive chairman revealed yesterday.
GUNNED DOWN: Widow of gangster shot dead by cops dies in GB driveby
THE wife of a dead alleged gang leader was killed in Freeport yesterday in a shooting that also left a man in hospital with serious injuries.
Gaming houses cry foul on shutdown
THE Bahamas Gaming Operators Association said it has been “left totally confused” by the government’s “discriminatory” policy which blocks web shops from offering curbside services to patrons.
Mrs Obama praises Princeton first
Former US First Lady Michelle Obama yesterday added her own tribute to the son of a Bahamian doctor who has made history by becoming the first black valedictorian at Princeton University.
Keep your umbrella to hand
WEATHER officials are monitoring a system moving towards the northwest Bahamas that could potentially develop into a tropical depression this week, becoming the first tropical system of the 2020 season.
UB organises emergency student fund
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas has established a special emergency fund to help students affected by COVID-19.
Body discovered at Long Island
A LONG Island resident made a grisly discovery when he found a man’s partly decomposed body on the weekend.
BPL blames bad weather for outages
BAD weather was blamed as the cause of Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) power outages in New Providence’s on Mother’s Day.
Pair charged after shooting incident
TWO Freeport men were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Monday in connection with last week’s shooting incident.
It's never too late to do the right thing, Dr Minnis
While listening to the Prime Minister’s address, I was very pleased to hear from his own lips that the web shops are NOT able to restart business under the curbside pickup or home delivery rules, although I’m sure they’ll leave no stone unturned searching for other ways around this edict.
In politics, we are mere actors on the stage
It is ironic that on today’s date, a Sunday and Mother’s Day coupled with the third year of the FNM in power, the sky is overcast and it looks like a shower will fall down later. We all know that when it rains the crabs start to walk. The masses of the Bahamian people have woken up from what turned out to be a long and unexpected nightmare.
Radshad commits to Panthers
RADSHAD Davis will conclude his collegiate basketball career playing the closest he has been to the Bahamas since he left years ago to complete his high school education.
BOC set to form Athletes’ Welfare Commission
In a bid to assist athletes get over the coronavirus pandemic, the Bahamas Olympic Committee has decided to form an Athletes’ Welfare Commission.
Who should/should not be allowed to utilise local facilities?
WHILE Prime Minister Hubert Minnis has opened the door for professional athletes to resume training amidst the coronavirus pandemic, the Bahamas Olympic Committee is seeking further clarification as to who should and should not be allowed to utilise the local facilities.
Sailing from Andros ends with $400 fine
A MAN who sailed from Andros to New Providence on a Boston Whaler to seek medical treatment for an ailing leg during the national curfew was fined $400 yesterday.
Bimini Chamber backs 2-week island lockdown
Bimini’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said he backed locking the entire island down for two weeks as a means to eliminate the COVID-19 virus and prevent its spread.Edward Reckley told Tribune Business: “From my team - and also the administ
Grand Lucayan waiting on $20m Dorian claim
The Grand Lucayan has yet to receive its expected $20m Hurricane Dorian insurance claim payout even though the property’s sale to the Royal Caribbean/ITM joint venture was completed over two months ago. Michael Scott, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Hol
Fraudsters seek to exploit COVID-19
Key Bahamian financial institutions have warned clients they are being targeted by fraudsters seeking to obtain their personal financial information through a technique known as “phishing”.Bank of The Bahamas, the BISX-listed commercial bank, yesterd
Entrepreneur touts plan for junior stock market
A Bahamian financial services entrepreneur says it plans to launch a junior stock exchange in the 2020 third quarter that will bring investor capital and agribusiness projects together.D’Arcy Rahming Jr, the project’s chief technical officer, said in
Monday, May 11
MONDAY UPDATE: One newly confirmed case of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Monday that there is one newly confirmed case of COIVD-19 in The Bahamas, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 93.
Woman killed and man injured in Grand Bahama shooting
A woman is dead and a man is in hospital after a shooting incident in Grand Bahama on Monday afternoon.
05112020 EDITION
Monday, 11th May, 2020.
INSIGHT: This game’s been running for a long while - and it’s not over yet
THERE is no doubt politics makes for strange bedfellows, particularly in the case of former Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands and the now acting Health Minister and Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. It is not too long ago both men were on opposing sides of a battle for the leadership of the Free National Movement. Although, at the time, Sands was positioning himself to be Loretta Butler-Turner’s deputy, his aspirations to become prime minister were widely known.
WORLD VIEW: Now’s not the time to sit quietly while others again decide our fate
Developing countries, including Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states, would make a grave mistake if, in the wake of the economic crisis they now face, they decide to diminish their foreign affairs budgets.
INSIGHT: We don’t need more meetings, false hope and promises - we need leadership, action and solutions
Life is forced to go on for residents of Abaco, sturuggling in the wake of Dorian’s devastation. But now a new cloud is appearing on their horizon - another hurricane season and no visible plan for their safety from a government some on the island feels has abandoned them.
Gibson criticism sent to complaints unit
THE Police Service Commission has referred Shane Gibson’s criticism that an officer who played a key investigatory role in his criminal case last year has been promoted to the Police Complaints Unit. Rev Dr Philip Stubbs, chairman of the commission,
Abaco brush fires now under control
BRUSH fires that threatened to spread to several communities throughout Abaco over the weekend have now been contained, according to RBPF Director of Fire Services Kenrick Morris. Fire rescue workers on the island said there have been a series of fi
Murphy defends conditions at BDCS
AFTER a review, the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services has refuted allegations from inmates of “desperate” conditions with inadequate protection during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minnis tests negative for COVID-19
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he tested negative for COVID-19 last week. He told The Tribune he took a test on Wednesday in preparation for a trip to Grand Bahama to survey health facilities there. However, he said health officials have advised him not to travel to Grand Bahama because it is too risky.
We are still not testing enough, claims Darville
THE Bahamas is still not testing enough people to make the best decisions about re-opening the country from the COVID-19 lockdown, Senator and former Cabinet minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday. Some experts have set testing targets that pla
Mother's Day spoilt by BPL outage
AN issue at a Bahamas Power and Light substation forced the company to leave customers in eastern New Providence without power for hours on Mother’s Day. A statement published on the company’s Facebook page yesterday morning advised the public the c
No permission for web shops to reopen
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said recent relaxations on COVID-19 restrictions were never meant to allow gaming houses to resume operations. Instead, he said the provisions under phase 1B of the government’s plan to reopen the economy related to r
PM says 12 people have been allowed in during lockdown
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said 12 people were allowed in the country during the lockdown period before recent repatriation exercises. Among those allowed in are six permanent
Judge hits 'double dipping' attorneys
A Supreme Court judge has blasted the practice of attorneys representing both parties in the same real estate transaction after finding one guilty of “professional negligence”. Justice Indra Charles said Bahamian attorneys continued to expose themse
Super Value in struggle to fill 100 vacancies
Super Value’s principal is questioning if “people want to work” as the supermarket chain struggles to fill up to 100 vacant posts amid an unemployment rate predicted by the Prime Minister to hit 30 percent.Rupert Roberts, pictured, told Tribune Busin
Sebas blasts PM on gaming closure
Island Luck’s principal last night accused the prime minister of “targeting” the domestic gaming industry and its 3,500 employees after he ordered the sector to close once more. Sebas Bastian, in a messaged response to Tribune Business inquiries, qu
‘Nobody will go hungry’: PM’s promise as he warns ‘tough decisions’ ahead
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said the 2020/2021 Budget his government will issue this month will reflect decisions Bahamians will find painful as COVID-19 and the response to the virus causes the unemployment rate to skyrocket and tax revenues to plummet.
How was infected able to fly home?
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said a person who tested positive for COVID-19 was among the 183 residents who returned to the country on Friday, prompting a suspension of repatriation exercises. His revelation during a national address yesterday came as the country went without an additional confirmed COVID-19 case for the fourth consecutive day.
Global Ports guarantees capital
Nassau Cruise Port's ultimate parent has pledged to "guarantee" the success of its $130m bond issue by covering any capital shortfall that may exist when the offering closes at the end of this week.
End of Sands no bad thing
A sure sign that it’s time for a Prime Minister to shuffle his cabinet is when individual ministers delude themselves into believing that they have a lock on a particular ministry.
Buddy’s Kings and Ayton’s Suns to begin voluntary individual workouts
The NBA plans to take its first step towards a return to normalcy as teams prepare to reopen practice facilities for voluntary individual workouts, based on the restriction protocols of their respective states.
Shakwon: ‘I’m looking forward to what we will do next year’
AFTER advancing to the California Community College Athletic Association’s regional state playoffs just before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the rest of the postseason, Shakwon Lewis said he was content with his freshman year with the Butte College Roadrunners men’s basketball team.
One returnee creates a bit of a storm
BAHAMIANS reacted critically as a video of a woman staying at Breezes went viral over the weekend. The woman was among the residents who returned to the country on Friday after being stuck in the United States during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Cruise port chief in 'guarantee' on bond's success
Nassau Cruise Port’s ultimate parent has pledged to “guarantee” the success of its $130m bond issue by covering any capital shortfall that may exist when the offering closes at the end of this week.Mehmet Kutman, Global Ports Holding’s chairman, told
The past, present and future of cash
Cash, in one form or another, has been around for millennia, being used as a means of payment and storing wealth. Throughout history large and small transactions have been carried out, using settlement methods that evolved in accordance with whatever
Hotels looking to extend lay-offs
The Bahamian resort industry is awaiting the government’s formal response to concerns that hotels will be forced to pay full termination pay to staff when the mandatory 90-day period expires. Michael Reckley, executive vice president of the Bahamas
'Don't let EU dictate our taxation policy'
The Bahamas must show it “will not be dictated to” by the European Commission’s “economic terrorism” over its tax structure, a local financial services provider has blasted. Paul Moss, principal of Dominion Management Services, told Tribune Business
Digital provider handles 20% of NIB payments
A digital payments provider says it is now handling 20 percent of COVID-19 benefits payouts on behalf of the National Insurance Board (NIB). Sean Smith, SunCash’s business development manager, told Tribune Business that the reduced lines at NIB’s Bl
Banks: We're here to aid troubled borrowers
Bahamas-based commercial banks are continuing to urge clients impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to take advantage of the financial relief initiatives they are offering. Lasonya Missick, Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) managing director, and chairman of
Long Island: Keep ports closed when we reopen
Long Island’s Chamber of Commerce president is hopeful it will be included in the next wave of COVID-19 re-openings but is calling for both air and sea ports to remain closed to domestic and international travel. Cheryl de Goicoechea told Tribune Bu
Sunday, May 10
Repatriations suspended after plane passenger tests positive for COVID-19
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said in his address on Sunday that while there were no new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in The Bahamas, one of the passengers who flew in on Friday to Grand Bahama had tested positive.
Severe thunderstorm warning for the Exuma Cays, South Andros
The Bahamas Department of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Exuma Cays, South Andros, along with their adjacent waters from 12.10pm until 2.10pm Sunday.
Saturday, May 9
SATURDAY UPDATE: No new confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Saturday that there are no newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 – the total number still standing at 92.
Friday, May 8
FRIDAY UPDATE: No newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that there are no newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 – the total number standing at 92.
Man charged with shopbreaking and stealing
A MAN was charged with shopbreaking and stealing in the Freeport Magistrate's Court on Friday.
BACK HOME: Husband describes trip back to Nassau with his wife
Andrew Rolle, 57, and his wife Sherrell Williams-Rolle, 47, are currently in self-quarantine at home after returning to the country during the first phase of the government’s repatriation of Bahamians and residents stuck abroad.
COVID-19 infection took mental toll on healthcare worker
A woman working in healthcare, who tested positive for COVID-19, is able to recall the exact moment she was infected with the disease.
Five arrested over shooting incident
FIVE men were arrested in connection with a shooting incident in Freeport this week, a senior police official reported on Friday.
Dorian survivor's message of hope during COVID-19 crisis
DORIAN survivor Kyle Johnson is bringing a message of hope to people during the COVID-19 crisis, which has left many unemployed here in Grand Bahama.
Sad to see numbers shops reopening
I was very disappointed with the Prime Minister‘s decision to reopen the numbers web shops.
EDITORIAL: Where is the leader when he’s needed?
WHAT a difference a week makes.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Sounds great - a job for life where you can’t get furloughed or fired
Wikipedia tells us there are two billion mothers in the world, 84.5 million of them in the United States. We don’t know exactly how many mothers there are in The Bahamas but one thing we do know – an awful lot of them are holding down the fort on their own.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Give us what we need and not what we want
AS more manure continues to hit the fan, on one end of the “Swabs for Entry Scandal”, the plot thickens on the other, with some interesting characters both old and new, raising their heads.
Will local elections go ahead? asks Davis
PLP Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has called on the government to say if it intends to go ahead with local government elections set for May 20 “It does not seem to us that these elections can take place given what is happening in the country,” Mr Davi
Divided views on Sands' decision to resign
BAHAMIANS have mixed views on Dr Duane Sands’ resignation from Cabinet this week. Raleigh Francis, an insurance executive, feels Dr Sands “got played by political operatives”. “Dr Sands could not have been the only man involved. He got played by po
People are still living in hurricane shelters
WITH the COVID-19 pandemic impacting daily operations, Deputy Director of Social Services Kim Sawyer said yesterday officials are not certain when shelters for Hurricane Dorian’s victims will be completely deactivated. This includes the Bahamas Acad
Causeway being built after bridge collapse
A CAUSEWAY is being built between Spanish Wells and Russell Island after the bridge connecting the two areas collapsed and cut off the community’s main water supply. Robert Roberts, the island’s chief counsellor, explained yesterday that residents a
Work on $6.5m bridge is close to completion
WORK on the Fishing Hole causeway bridge in Grand Bahama has resumed and officials expect it to be completed before the hurricane season starts. The $6.5 million bridge - which was almost completed last year - was significantly damaged by tidal surg
LGBTI activists fear restrictions leave members vulnerable
LOCAL LGBTI activists say the restrictions implemented by the government to prevent the spread of the coronavirus have left members of their community particularly vulnerable to domestic violence and other social issues. This comes after a new repor
Bahamians return home from Florida
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health conducted its first phase of repatriation of Bahamian nationals and residents from Florida on Friday: they returned to New Providence and Grand Bahama, arriving in the capital late morning.
Our foot’s on your neck, EU warns
The Attorney General last night said senior European officials and politicians have warned The Bahamas: "We won't take our foot off your neck until you implement a corporate income tax."
Central Bank chokes off $50m investment currency outflows
The Central Bank’s restrictions on outflows through the Investment Currency Market (ICM) will likely save The Bahamas around $50m in foreign reserves, data released yesterday revealed.The monetary authority’s 2019 annual report revealed that Bahamian
Board delayed water contract for 14 months
A master plan to solve New Providence’s wastewater woes was delayed for 14 months after the then-Water & Sewerage Corporation Board sought a “sole-source award” of the contract, Tribune Business can reveal.
Pension savers: Don't panic on negative returns
Bahamians were yesterday urged to “take the long-term view” and avoid knee-jerk reactions to the negative returns experienced by pension plans and other long-term savings as a result of COVID-19.Larry Gibson, vice-president of Colonial Pension Servic
Welcome back: Returnees flying in today face checks on if they go home
ONE hundred and ninety Bahamians returning to the country today could have their homes evaluated to determine if they qualify for home isolation or have to be quarantined in a government facility.
Wanted: 12 missing from quarantine
MINISTRY of Health officials cannot find 12 people who were in quarantine, COVID-19 response coordinator Dr Merceline Dahl-Regis said yesterday.
‘Finally’ pay day’s arrived
A former Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president says today's first construction industry payroll for seven to eight weeks will prove "a huge stress buster for lower and middle income families".
Freeport man admits shopbreaking offences
A Freeport man was yesterday charged with a number of shopbreaking offences between March and April. Deon Marcuis Hall, 43, of No 167 Morgan Lane, appeared before Magistrate Charlton Smith in Court Two on three counts of shopbreaking, one count of s
Mother fined $525 for driving home to see sick son
A WOMAN who claimed she violated the lockdown because she was trying to get home to be with her sick son was fined $525 yesterday. She and three others appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis for lockdown and curfew infractions. Is’la
Fine or prison for licence plate fraud
A 21-year-old man appeared in court yesterday charged with licence plate fraud. Stephen Turnquest appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis charged with fraudulent use of a licence plate after officers found him on Baillou Hill Road driv
Pair in court on vagrancy charges
TWO men were taken to court yesterday to face vagrancy charges. Dudley Smith, 30, appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis after officers found him in the Stewfish Drive area on April 29 and had reason to suspect he was planning to com
Teenager charged with sharing explicit video
AN 18-year-old was charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after recording and publishing a sexual video of a woman and another man. Trevor Brown appeared before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt charged with two counts of voyeurism. He pleaded
NPBA gives back
With their season interrupted because of the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the New Providence Basketball Association took the time out to reminisce on what they missed during the past two months.
Franco Miller Jr reflects on list of his top schools
FRANCO Miller Jr has fielded several offers since he entered the transfer portal and discussed a list of his top schools that have emerged thus far from the process.
Rolle-Curry joins Bahamians at Dragons track and field
ROBYN Rolle-Curry will become the latest student athlete to join the Bahamian pipeline at Minnesota State Moorhead Dragons track and field programme.
Chris Ferguson still has hopes of landing in the NFL
CHRIS Ferguson did not hear his name called during the recent virtual NFL draft, but the former Cincinnati Bearcat still has hopes of catching on to an NFL roster as an undrafted free agent.
Junkanoo 'icons' in lead museum role
Two Bahamian Junkanoo icons have been engaged to play a key role in developing the Junkanoo Museum at the revamped Nassau Cruise Port. Percy “Vola” Francis and Arlene Nash-Ferguson will be heavily involved in creating this cultural attraction direct
Arawak Cay vendors awaiting 'green light'
Arawak Cay vendors were yesterday said to still be waiting on the “green light” to reopen following the COVID-19 enforced shutdown. Rodney Russell, the Arawak Cay Association’s president, told Tribune Business: “The Arawak Cay family has no authorit
Reducing the risk with covid-19 re-opening
A return to regular work is imminent for many employees throughout the world as restrictions imposed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) are reviewed. The Bahamas is no exception.It is a welcome move for businesses that have struggled through t
Junior stock market vital to agriculture investment
A Caribbean private sector executive yesterday said the creation of a junior stock maket is “important” to generating financing for agricultural projects in The Bahamas and wider region. Dr Patrick Antoine, a representative from the Caribbean Privat
Fisheries: COVID-19 disrupting all levels
All elements of the fisheries industry yesterday said earnings and profits have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown.Anthony McKinney, Paradise Fisheries’ president, told Tribune Business that the restaurant industry’s closure had caused
Sir William resigns as Property Fund director
The BISX-listed Bahamas Property Fund has announced that former finance minister, Sir William Allen, pictured , resigned as one of its directors with effect from April 30, 2020. Michael Anderson, the Property Fund’s chairman, said Sir William’s back
Thursday, May 7
No new confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Thursday that there are no newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 in The Bahamas.
EDITORIAL: Fighting on the front line
When we talk about healthcare workers on the front line of the battle against COVID-19, it’s people such as Dr George Charite and his daughters that we are talking about.
STATESIDE: A bitter pill to swallow for the greater good
You have to give Donald Trump credit. The American President, who has been caught in nearly 20,000 public lies by what he calls the “lamestream” press, spoke with disarming candour the other day.
FRONT PORCH: Collective responsibility & cabinet government
It is unfortunate many in the media as well as many academics do not understand the basic tenets of our system of government. Correspondingly, we often get our language and our thinking muddled and just plain wrong in constitutional matters.
We're still in the thick of it, warns Kwasi
MINISTER of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson yesterday warned Grand Bahama is still in the thick of the fight against COVID-19 after one new case was confirmed on the island on Tuesday.
Bus drivers may limit passengers when they run again
BUS drivers may limit the number of passengers allowed on their vehicles amid other precautions once the government gives them the green light to resume routes.
Bimini residents divided on how to deal with infections
AS the number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Bimini, residents are split on whether the small community needs a more stringent lockdown to stop the spread of infections. “The lockdown is needed before this thing gets any worse,” said a concerned resident, who did not wish to be named. “I am 66-years-old and I don’t go out, except in my backyard - it is scary.”
Number of students now working online up to 45,000
ABOUT 45,000 students have now registered for the Ministry for Education’s virtual learning programme, according to Education Minister Jeff Lloyd. Last month, it was revealed around 40,000 students had enrolled.
A bridge too far
THE bridge connecting Spanish Wells and Russell Island collapsed yesterday affecting water supply and travel between the two islands.
Bannister aiming for $500m works budget
A Cabinet minister yesterday said he will be "smiling from ear to ear" if his wish for a $500m capital works budget to improve decaying infrastructure and boost the economy is granted.
Labour chief: 2,500 in termination threat
The government’s top labour official yesterday warned that 2,500 employees are threatened with termination unless the period in which they can receive unemployment benefit is doubled to 26 weeks.John Pinder, director of labour, told Tribune Business
BTC suffers 8% revenue decline
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) suffered an eight percent year-over-year top-line decline during the 2020 first quarter, it was revealed yesterday, with revenues dipping below the $50m mark. BTC’s parent, Liberty Latin America (LiLAC),
Auto dealer: 'Level the playing field'
A Bahamian auto dealer is urging the government to “level the playing field” as he voiced concerns that competitors are being allowed to open in-store more frequently than his own business.Ben Albury, Bahamas Bus and Truck’s general manager, told Tri
BISX-listed firm 'bullish' on $1.2m travel investment
A BISX-listed company yesterday said it remains “bullish” on a $1.2m travel agency investment that it believes can still target a Bahamian market worth up to $1bn post-COVID-19.Julian Brown, pictured, Benchmark (Bahamas) president and chief executive
‘Stranded 200’ fly home tomorrow
NEARLY 200 Bahamians stuck abroad amid the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to return to the country tomorrow, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced yesterday.
Abaconian fears over hurricane readiness
ABACO residents, still grappling with life after Hurricane Dorian, feel the island is in no way ready for the start of hurricane season next month and fear the worst is to come.
Doctor’s girls fighting virus: Health worker sisters struck by COVID-19 battle illness together
LIFE has not been easy for Dr George Charite since his two daughters tested positive for COVID-19 last month. The Abaco resident says his daughters - who he chose not to name - have been aiding in the fight against the virus and have been battling the potentially deadly disease since mid-April. “My two daughters are in the nursing field,” he told The Tribune yesterday.
UPDATED: Three new cases as Bahamas averages 36 virus tests a day
THE Bahamas has recently averaged 36 COVID-19 tests per day, with the country recording three additional cases of the disease yesterday.
Fined $500 for going out to charge cellphone
A man who claimed he violated the lockdown to charge his cellphone at a friend’s house because he had no electricity at home was fined $500 yesterday.
Should Dr Sands have got the job in the first place?
Dr Duane Sands (FNM-Elizabeth) has been obliged to pick up his marbles and to demit office as Minister of Health. Years ago, I held a brief for him and a few other then candidates.
Giving Tuesday: Suns’ Ayton joins philanthropic effort
Phoenix Suns centre Deandre Ayton joined a philanthropic effort to feed employees of the Talking Stick Resort Arena while it remains inactive due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Malik Joseph signs with the Wolves
BAHAMIAN junior national basketball team standout Malik Joseph has signed his letter of intent to join the Newberry College Wolves this upcoming fall.
Opposition slams Europe's 'outrageous' blacklist threat
The opposition’s deputy leader yesterday slammed the “outrageous” blacklisting of The Bahamas’ by the European Commission as he urged the government to stop “kowtowing” in the face of such threats. Chester Cooper, responding to reports that the comm
Out Island resorts focusing on health
Family Island resorts yesterday said they are developing the necessary health and sanitary protocols to put guests at ease over returning once the COVID-19 pandemic has ended.Carl Rolle, manager of Rollezz Villas Beach Resort on Cat Island, told Trib
Bahamian investors 'cover' oil explorer's licence fees deal
Some $900,000 raised from Bahamian investors will “adequately cover” the agreement reached by an oil explorer with the Minnis administration over outstanding licence fees.Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), in a statement to the markets, said the BPC In
Strategies to thrive in our 'new normal'
I believe the greatest challenge lies in determining where we should focus the Bahamian economy so that it can thrive in the "new normal" that will emerge once the COVID-19 pandemic has passed. My concern is not only the negative impact on tourism, o
'Safety over money' for entertainment centres
Entertainment centres yesterday pledged to prioritise “safety over making money” when it came to re-opening in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris Mortimer, president of Galleria Cinemas, told Tribune Business: “We have to err on the side of ca
Wednesday, May 6
Darville: We need to build more hurricane shelters on high ground
Human Rights and Environmental activist Joseph Darville says “ample hurricane shelters built on high ground” are needed to avoid the catastrophic deaths that occurred with Huirricane Dorian, warning “we better get prepared” as even stronger storms ar
EDITORIAL: Are the borders open to some but not to all?
AFTER a long day of waiting to find out who the new Minister of Health would be, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis revealed there was only one man for the job – himself!
ALICIA WALLACE: More questions than answers which Sands’ resignation does not make go away
No one was pleased when news broke that two permanent residents were allowed to enter Nassau early last week while the borders were closed. It was said these people brought 2500 COVID-19 testing swabs – not testing kits – which were donations.
We support our MP 110%, says branch chair
PAMELA Hart, chairman of the Free National Movement’s Elizabeth constituency branch, reacted with sadness to Dr Duane Sands’ resignation from Cabinet and vowed the group will continue to support him as its MP.
Spanish Wells bridge collapses
This video and these photos show the scene in Spanish Wells today after the bridge to Russell Island collapsed.
PPE supplier complains about 'unfair' treatment
A LOCAL supplier of personal protective equipment is appealing to the Office of the Prime Minister to be given the same consideration and treatment they believes is given to larger companies in clearing PPE shipments. Eduardo Collie, partner of Baha
EU blacklists over money laundering
The Attorney General yesterday said it was "especially distressing" that Europe appears to have ignored The Bahamas' "herculean efforts" in preparing to again blacklist this nation.
"Tell Europe that enough is enough"
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to tell Europe “enough is enough”, with a former attorney general arguing it is wielding “blacklisting” as a tool to drive this nation out of financial services.Alfred Sears QC, responding after it was revealed that th
Restrictions halt bank's $20m in outflow deals
RoyalFidelity’s president yesterday praised the Central Bank for “trying to get ahead” of foreign reserves stress via measures that will curtail $20m in outflows facilitated by the merchant bank last year.Michael Anderson told Tribune Business that t
Bahamas faces 'IMF programme by 2021'
The Bahamas will be in an International Monetary Fund (IMF) adjustment programme by 2021 due to a “balance of payments crisis”, a noted Caribbean economist predicted yesterday.Marla Dukharan, formerly Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) top regional economi
Web shops back with curb-side, drive through
Numerous Bahamian web shop locations have resumed business via drive through and curb-side services following the government’s easing of the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. Much of the domestic gaming industry has joined other sectors of the economy i
Davis: Former minister did not act on his own
PROGESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis called for explanations from the ministers of aviation, immigration and finance, saying former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands did not act alone in allowing Americans to disembark in the county.
GOING ALONE: PM takes over ‘interim’ Health role in wake of Sands standing down
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis will temporarily serve as Minister of Health, Cabinet Office announced yesterday in a terse press statement.
Set a plan in motion
The time is upon us to rise up from this state of paralysis caused by the Covid 19 pandemic and set a plan of action in motion to restore the health of the economy of our glorious Bahamas. Here are some ideas the government should consider:
‘I’m sad - our country’s lost a gifted servant’
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday he was saddened to learn about the resignation of former Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands, saying the country will forever be indebted to him for his great contributions to Bahamian society.
Saddened to see Dr Sands resign
Kindly allow me space in your valuable paper to express my opinion on learning about the resignation of Dr Duane Sands, the Honourable Minister of Health.
Man charged with curfew violation
A 38-year-old-man was yesterday charged with violating the lockdown and being in possession of instruments for burglary . Elliot Smith appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis after officers found him in the Yellow Elder Elder area with
Man admits threatening to kill neighbour with cutlass
THREE men were charged yesterday with assaulting people with dangerous instruments in three separate incidents. Kemuel Stuart, 30, appeared in Magistrate’ Court charged with assaulting his neighbour with a cutlass and threatening to take his life as
Two charged with separate drug offences
TWO men were charged with drug possession in separate incidents in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. James McCartney, 23, appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis after officers seized two ounces of Indian hemp from him around 6.20pm on
Gardiner: 'We're still training'
EVERYBODY is coping with the coronavirus differently from each other, including Bahamian quarter-miler Steven Gardiner, who is still in a full-fledged training camp in the United States of America.Gardiner, who lowered his national record in the men’
Woman admits damaging ex-boyfriend's car
A WOMAN was charged yesterday with damaging her ex-boyfriend’s car after she found him at home with two naked women. Malanda Francois, 21, appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis charged with one count of damage after she broke the f
NPBA to distribute care packages to its members
The New Providence Basketball Association, one of the most flourishing sporting organisations in the country, will be making a valuable contribution to its players amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.On Thursday between the hours of 1-6pm at Pastor Arthur D
Lamar Watkins to join Mustangs in Putnam this fall
LAMAR Watkins will have the opportunity to further his athletic career with one of the top prep basketball programmes in America. Watkins will join the incoming class of the Putnam Science Academy Mustangs in Putnam, Connecticut, this fall. The for
Teenager dies in day of double murder
TWO people were killed in separate incidents yesterday, including a 17-year-old boy in Fox Hill.
The Vicious Cycle Of Lockdowns, Downgrades And Stimulus Cost
In the final of his three-part series, Hubert Edwards suggests how The Bahamas and other nations can blunt the impact of sovereign credit downgrades.
Food retailers 'bracing' for US chain disruption
Bahamian food retailers yesterday said they were “bracing” for possible supply chain shortages and disruption in the US, and starting to seek out alternative product sources. Bradley Rolle, Centreville Food Store’s general manager, told Tribune Busi
Airbnb unveils its online Mother's Day Experience
Airbnb yesterday said it has developed a collection of Online Experiences to help celebrate Mother’s Day this Sunday. The vacation rental platform said Online Experiences offers gift ideas taught by expert hosts, including songwriting with a Nashvil
NIB jobless benefit payouts near $17m
The National Insurance Board (NIB) has paid out almost $17m in unemployment benefits to over 20,000 claimants, its director said yesterday. Dr Nicola Virgil-Rolle told Tribune Business: “As of last week Thursday afternoon it was 20,672 persons paid
Merchant: Absence of e-commerce no barrier
Some merchants able to offer delivery and pick-up services yesterday argued that the absence of an e-commerce platform is not hindering their return to business following the six-week lockdown. Anwar Knowles, Variety Disposable Products’ assistant g
Tuesday, May 5
Mother’s Day in lockdown
How will you celebrate?
THIS coming Sunday is Mother’s Day, and unfortunately for those who live in Nassau and the northern islands, we will be under lockdown beginning Friday night at 9pm. This weekend, like the previous ones, means limited movement, and many will most likely not have the chance to spend time with their mothers, at least not in person.
High school teacher embraces ‘new normal’; offers online exam preparation
While she is missing the one-on-one connection with her students during this time of social distancing, educator Kizzy McKinney-McPhee is doing her best to make her virtual lessons as engaging and cohesive as possible.
FACE TO FACE: CB’s life has been a perfect marriage - church, community and Francisca by his side
This is a trying time for everyone, especially those who are facing unemployment and an uncertain future. But people are reaching out, pulling together and showing they care in order to cope with the crisis caused by COVID-19. Some have called on the church to play a bigger role in helping not only their members, but their community and one church is doing just that.
Five newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
THE number of confirmed COVID-19 cases jumped by five to 89 yesterday, health officials said.
EDITORIAL: A resignation that could have been avoided
A DAY of political drama ended in a short statement last night.
PETER YOUNG: A world working together is only way to win this war and Britain is playing its role
As the horror, grief and desperation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues, the need for international co-operation to combat it has become all the more pressing. The World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11. According to its latest figures, the virus has been found so far in as many as 185 countries with some 3.5 million confirmed cases and nearly 250,000 deaths worldwide.
D'Aguilar likely to let Carnival dock here
THE Bahamas will likely say “yes” to Carnival Cruise Lines stopping at its ports if sailing resumes on August 1 as planned, Minister of Tourism and Aviation Dionisio D’Aguilar said yesterday. Carnival Cruise Line announced plans yesterday to resume
Turnquest: COVID-19 may be as bad as Dorian
By EARYEL BOWLEG ebowleg@tribunemedia.net FINANCE Minister Peter Turnquest suggested that the economic loss from the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to be as great or greater than Hurricane Dorian’s impact. While a guest on a ZNS broadcast yesterday,
Laroda happy to see firms reopen
GRAND Bahama Chamber of Commerce president Greg Laroda says the reopening of some businesses on the island is “a huge step,” as many are on “life support right now.”
Gibson's anger over Thompson promotion
FORMER Cabinet Minister Shane Gibson has written to the Police Service Commission, expressing his dismay over the promotion of a police officer who was heavily criticised for her role in his bribery trial last year. Mr Gibson was acquitted during th
At last some good news for southern Family Islands
AFTER weeks of pleading with the government to allow islands with no COVID-19 cases to resume day-to-day activities, residents of the southern Family Islands say they can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
Bahamas downgrade hits cruise port costs
The Bahamas’ sovereign credit downgrade has increased the Nassau Cruise Port’s financing costs to a level “never” considered just 90 days ago, its top executive has revealed. Michael Maura, the cruise port operator/developer’s chief executive, told
Realtors: 'No brainer' over sector restart
Re-opening the real estate sector to allow property viewings should be “a no brainer” given its economic importance, the Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) president argued yesterday. Christine Wallace-Whitfield said she and other BREA directo
Return to business sends firms 'ecstatic'
Bahamian firms able to offer delivery and curb-side pick-up were yesterday “ecstatic” about resuming commerce after a six to seven-week shutdown during which many earned zero income. Brent Burrows, general manager of CBS Bahamas (Commonwealth Buildi
Restrictions give $300m foreign reserves 'buffer'
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday said measures imposed to restrict foreign currency outflows will create $300m in “buffers” to safeguard the external reserves and the fixed US dollar peg.John Rolle revealed that the regulator has suspended all a
Economy may contract by 'mid to upper teens'
The Bahamian economy may shrink by between 15-19 percent this year with a fully recovery of COVID-19 losses not occurring until 2022, the Central Bank’s governor warned yesterday.John Rolle, in a bleak near-term assessment of the country’s post-pande
SANDS GOES: His resignation over flight fiasco accepted by PM
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis accepted the resignation of Health Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday, a stunning climax to a fast-moving controversy that has now dimmed Dr Sands’ political career.
Students sorry to be missing graduation fun
GRAND Bahama resident Iesir Moss was planning to be surrounded by her close friends and family members when she walked across the stage to receive her long-awaited diploma from the University of the Bahamas after five years of studying at the institu
Fine for running repair business
A 44-year-old man was ordered to pay $4,000 or face one year in prison for violating the national curfew and operating a non-essential business last week. Sean Pindling appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis after officers found him a
We shouldn't allow long line fishing
Why are we discussing long line fishing in 2020?
Sydney Clarke: UAB ‘is the perfect fit for me’
As soon as the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, Sydney Clarke is hoping that she can pack her bags and head off to Birmingham, Alabama, in August to begin her freshman year at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) on a tennis scholarship.
Long Island Regatta cancelled for first time in 53 years
FOR the first time in its 53 years of existence, the Long Island Regatta, the second oldest and most prestigious in the island nation, has been cancelled.
The dangers of unregulated sex enhancement pills
Viagra obtained US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in March 1998 and the world of erectile dysfunction has never been the same. The sexual enhancement pills industry is huge and continues to grow, with Viagra making over two billion dollars last year. Other PDE5 inhibitor medications such as Cialis and Levitra are widely prescribed throughout the world.
A month of events to show support for high-risk lupus patients
Life during lockdown is challenging enough for most healthy people, but for those living with lupus it can be even far more difficult.
Funeral homes say ‘look, but don’t touch’
It is a common social practice for Bahamians to greet people with hugs, handshakes and sometimes high-fives. They are freely given to say hello and bid farewell. And this physical expression of affection is given not only to the living, but sometimes to the deceased as well. However, during the current coronavirus outbreak this poses a problem.
Virtual wellness: Online classes to combat stress, anxiety and bad posture
What physiotherapist DeVonnia Bonimy-Lee enjoys most about her profession is the “detective work” that goes into understanding the source of each of her client’s aches and pains so she can come up with a tailor-made plan to address their needs.
Hurricane shelter shortage exposed
THE International Organisation for Migration has warned The Bahamas is not ready for the 2020 hurricane season.
Liquor stores among businesses reopening
Commonwealth Brewery’s retail arm was among multiple liquor stores able to yesterday start selling inventory that the industry feared might go past its sell-by date had the lockdown not eased.Ron Hepburn, Commonwealth Brewery’s director of retail, sa
Monday, May 4
PM accepts Sands’ resignation
UPDATED: Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has accepted the resignation of the Minister of Health, Dr Duane Sands.
One newly confirmed case of COVID-19 in New Providence
The Ministry of Health announced on Monday that there is one additional confirmed case of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Border breach row an unwelcome issue
THE whole story of the US couple who breached border restrictions has become a real mess.
INSIGHT: Trump's eagerness to open up could be the last thing we need
AS the saying goes: When America sneezes, The Bahamas catches a cold. Imagine what becomes of us if that proverbial sneeze is caused by a disease that has already infected more than one million Americans. Despite being armed with this knowledge and t
INSIGHT: Time for imagination as we draw blueprint for our future
The economic future of The Bahamas has become a popular conversation. This is the second time within a year that overnight we have incurred upwards of a billion dollars in losses. There is a sense of fear and uncertainty among Bahamians and this is s
Two arrested for poaching at Bonefish Pond
TWO people were arrested on Saturday for poaching in Bonefish Pond National Park, according to the Bahamas National Trust. The BNT also said it has noted increased reports of illegal poaching and development in national parks during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Moultrie defends move to install manual pumps
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie yesterday defended his decision to install several manual water pumps in the Nassau Village community last week amid criticism from the opposition who cited the move as “reckless” and a danger to the health of residents in the area.
CCTV gives no clue about Luann death
CCTV footage of a hit-and-run accident that killed a woman last year has not aided police in their investigation, Chief Superintendent Mareno Hinds said. Meanwhile, an eyewitness who claimed to have chased the driver and witnessed the person turn in
Country to move to next phase of re-opening
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday that the country will move today to the next phase of re-opening from the COVID-19 lockdown. He also announced that Family Islands will be gradually reopened according to zones, starting today with
No cruise tourists for five months (at least)
Nassau Cruise Port is projecting passenger numbers will plummet by 61.4 percent in 2020, with no new arrivals for at least five months, as it today launches its $130m bond financing. Michael Maura, Nassau Cruise Port’s chief executive, said the oper
Contractor chief wanted another week to re-open
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said he had wanted the industry’s re-opening delayed another week, and said: “We’re keeping health before wealth.”Michael Pratt told Tribune Business he had sought an extra week to allo
'Worst ever mistake' for inflated reserves
The $2bn foreign exchange reserves are less healthy than they appear because of the Minnis administration’s “worst ever mistake”, a former Central Bank governor argued yesterday. James Smith, also a former finance minister, told Tribune Business tha
Deltec confirms 15 redundancies
A major Bahamian international bank yesterday confirmed it had terminated 15 staff as part of a restructuring focused on automation and financial technology (Fintech). Deltec International Group, in a statement responding to Tribune Business inquiri
Hunt for six missing off fire ship
POLICE in Long Island are still searching for six people who swam ashore on Friday after their vessel erupted into flames off Stella Maris a day prior.
TEST KITS FLIGHT: PM confirms protocol breach; Sands – ‘I intend to continue my work‘
Duane Sands does not plan to resign from Cabinet over his actions related to six permanent residents who arrived in the country last week with COVID-19 supplies and were allowed to self-isolate in their homes. “I intend to continue my work for the Bahamian people in my capacity as minister of health and I will do it to the best of my ability,” he told The Tribune yesterday.
Can Bahamians drink and behave responsibly?
Your editorial yesterday April 29 was interesting beyond Minister Dames’ lack of transparency.
Donte to begin freshman year at Hampton University
WHILE sitting out a year after graduating from high school, Donte Armbrister made the leap from the junior to the senior ranks last year as a tennis player. Now he is preparing to head off to Hampton, Virginia, to begin his freshman year as a collegian at Hampton University.
Miller-Uibo: ‘I am coping okay with this pandemic’
With the world of sports on hold due to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, Bahamian Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo and her husband, Maicel Uibo, are busy taking advantage of their makeshift training site at home in Clermont, Florida.
Dames and Lightbourne sign letters of intent
JOSHUA Dames and Bradley Lightbourne became the latest Bahamian basketball talents to announce their intention to join programmes at the Junior College level.
Banks shouldn't impose such onerus rules
As we enter the second month of curfew and lockdown due to COVID-19, I am led to put pen to paper once again to highlight the banking institutions in this country that continue to hold us, their customers, hostage by imposing onerous rules, fees and processes that discourage and frustrate us, private and corporate customers alike, as opposed to making ‘the ease of doing business’ a reality!
We must find ways for people to get water during curfew
The Tribune of April, 28 2020 carried a story under the headline, “Man Fined $500 for Helping Out His Great Grandfather”.
PM: Pro athletes can now resume their training
DURING his national address on Sunday on the re-opening of the Bahamian economy, Prime Minister Hubert Minnis revealed that professional athletes will be allowed to resume their training yesterday.
The vicious cycle of lockdowns, downgrades and stimulus cost
In the second of a three-part series, Hubert Edwards analyses the challenges confronting The Bahamas as it seeks to secure sufficient funding to ride-out the COVID-19 storm.
Govt sets 45% of business 'at liberty'
The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday said the government has “set many businesses at liberty” with 45 percent suggesting that can offer online ordering and delivery. Jeffrey Beckles, reacting to the prime minister’s decision to move t
Who'll be the winners and losers in this post-COVID new world?
Speculating about what the post-COVID-19 world will be like, at a stage when we are all still experiencing the shock caused by the disease, could be compared, as someone said, with writing the review of a theatre play before the first act is over. Th
BTC aids Health Ministry with communication need
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has teamed with the Ministry of Health (MoH) to improve its communications in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic.The carrier donated ten mobile devices equipped with post-paid services. These will be
GB: 82% of firms plan to re-open
Some 82 percent of closed Grand Bahama businesses surveyed by the island’s Chamber of Commerce expect to re-open, it has been confirmed, with just two firms saying they will go out of business.The COVID-19 survey of 127 companies found that 42 percen
Economic vision must go beyond restarting
Preliminary estimates by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) indicate there will be at least a 45 percent decline in international tourism this year because of COVID-19. This will have negative economic implications for
Taxi chief predicts fare and passenger change
The taxi union’s president said fares and the number of passengers drivers carry from Prince George Wharf may alter as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.Wesley Ferguson, the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s (BTCU) chief, told Tribune Business: “We may have t
Firms seek clarity over 'curb side'
Companies permitted to offer delivery and pick-up services from today have called for more clarity after the prime minister moved the Bahamian economy to its second re-opening stage.Dwayne Higgs, WHIM Automotive’s general manager, told Tribune Busine
Bahamas must 'reinvent rules' following COVID-19
The head of the Chamber of Commerce’s digital transformation committee is urging Bahamians to “reinvent the rules” to revive the economy in a post-COVID-19 environment. Royann Dean, speaking on a webinar hosted by the Organisation for Responsible Go
Light industries donate to help most vulnerable
The Bahamas Light Industries Development Council (BLIDC) and its members have donated free food and drink to support charities in the battle against COVID-19 related hunger. Companies such as Purity Bakery, the Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), Blan
Gym owners plead for earlier reopening
Gym and fitness centre proprietors yesterday argued they should be allowed to reopen on the basis that the industry represents no greater COVID-19 risk than the food stores. Sofia Whitehead, owner of Club One Fitness, told Tribune Business: “I think
Sunday, May 3
PM announces phase IB in reopening economy, six people allowed to disembark test kits plane
In his address to the nation on Sunday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced that, effective Monday (May 4th), Phase 1B in the reopening of the economy will begin. This means:
Wilchcombe connected Sands with Americans who brought test kits
FORMER Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe connected Health Minister Dr Duane Sands with the Americans who brought test kit swabs to the country last week and were controversially allowed to quarantine at their home afterwards.
Saturday, May 2
One new case of COVID-19 diagnosed, takes total to 83
ONE more case of COVID-19 has been confirmed today, bringing the total in The Bahamas to 83.
Friday, May 1
UPDATED: Passenger dies then fire destroys vessel off Long Island
A SEA voyage ended in the death of a passenger from illness and the Haitian ship itself bursting into flame off Long Island on Thursday.
Davis 'appalled' by promotion of lead investigator in case against Gibson
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said he was “appalled” by the promotion of Assistant Superintendent Deborah Thompson – the lead investigator in the case against former Cabinet minister Shane Gibson.
Man jailed for stealing water pump
A MAN accused of stealing a water pump from a local bar and restaurant was sentenced to four months in prison on Friday.
Rand Memorial renovation work proceeding at 'record pace'
RENOVATION work at the Rand Memorial Hospital is proceeding at a “record pace”, with the cost estimated “well into the millions”, Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest said on Friday.
Portable water plant on Abaco to supply 10,000 gallons a day
A PORTABLE water plant has been installed on Abaco, bringing 10,000 gallons of potable water a day to residents.
Homeless man pleads guilty to violating curfew
A 50-year-old homeless man, who claimed he was on the streets because he was being chased by six invisible people, was charged on Friday for violating the curfew.
Man accused of sex with two teenaged girls
A 25-year-old man was remanded to prison on Friday accused of having sex with two teenaged girls.
Davis calls for Sands' resignation
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis called for the resignation of Health Minister Dr Duane Sands on Friday - and claimed there were potentially other instances of people coming into the country while the borders are closed for Bahamians.
Gym owner 'puzzled' by re-opening phases
EVOLVE Functional Fitness’s owner is left scratching her head over how certain businesses are opening before others in the government’s measured reopening plan for the economy.
Elizabeth Avenue south of Shirley Street closed for two weeks
Elizabeth Avenue will be closed south of Shirley Street to traffic for two weeks, it was announced yesterday.
EDITORIAL: The other battle we face - against hunger
ONE in four people in The Bahamas may now be facing hunger.
Probe begins over patient snubbed for wearing his shoes
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday a formal investigation is underway after a patient complained about being ordered to remove his shoes by a doctor before receiving treatment at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Dialysis Unit.The letter of com
Home becomes help centre
FOR many residents in the poor areas of New Providence the current COVID crisis has just magnified the problems thrown at them in life.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Comedy in times of the coronavirus
THIS coming May 10th, Lord spare my life, will be my 22nd year as ‘House Comic’ at the Jokers Wild Comedy Club, and as a professional stand up comedian, both locally and internationally. To God be the glory.
1,500 fed as hunger mounts
GRAND Bahama civic leader Dudley Seide is helping to feed thousands of people affected during the COVID-19 shutdown that has left many unemployed and struggling to put food on the table.Some 1,500 persons turned up at the Reach Out Community Centre o
DIANE PHILLIPS: Life at a standstill - but not for Mother Nature
THERE is nothing normal about the new normal, and that might be a very good thing. Not in all ways, of course, but maybe in some ways and maybe, just maybe some of those are worth stopping a moment for, thinking about and yes, appreciating.
Potter's Cay: Why let restaurants open but keep our stalls closed?
VENDORS at Potter’s Cay are calling for the government to allow them to resume their operations, saying it’s “unfair” that other restaurant operators have been allowed to stay open amid the COVID-19 pandemic while their businesses remain closed. Not
Bahamas image voted best taken from space
A STUNNING photo of the Bahamas taken from space has been voted as NASA’s all-time best image.
Govt revenues in 50% March slump
Government revenues declined by 50 percent in March, the deputy prime minister revealed yesterday, as the COVID-19 crisis threw a better-than-expected post-Dorian fiscal showing “out of whack”. K Peter Turnquest, speaking as the government unveiled
Cruise port requires $284m total funding
The Nassau Cruise Port’s transformation has $284.3m in total financing needs with its developer/operator having the ability to introduce new services and charges at its “discretion”. The details are revealed in documents issued to potential investor
Landlords ask: ‘What about us?’
A former Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA) president yesterday warned that the government’s rental assistance initiative threatens to place many landlords at “an unfair disadvantage”.
Brewery fears lockdown will waste $500k in beer
A Bahamian brewery and liquor distributor yesterday voiced fears that $500,000 worth of beer it is holding will soon go to waste due to the lockdown, adding: “Something’s got to give.”Gary Sands, the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company’s general ma
Ansbacher adds $1bn by buying departing bank
A Bahamian-owned institution yesterday rescued several financial services jobs by acquiring a $1bn asset portfolio from its departing Swiss-headquartered owner.Julius Baer, which earlier this year dealt a significant blow to the Bahamian financial in
UPDATED: Davis hits out at 'show of hypocrisy' after two Americans allowed entry
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday it is “disgraceful” that two Americans were allowed entry to the country while Bahamians in some cases have been made to suffer in foreign countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
UPDATED: Police shoot dead machete attacker
A MAN who attempted to “chop” police with a machete was shot and killed by officers in Abaco on Wednesday night, officials said yesterday.
100,000 need help with food: Aid networks’ huge challenge to support families facing crisis
BAHAMAS Feeding Network Executive Director Philip Smith fears 100,000 people in the country are now facing hunger in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Next stage of re-opening being considered
GIVEN recent decline in new COVID-19 cases, government officials are considering moving to the next stage for re-opening the country, one that would see a relaxation of exercise restrictions.
Two Americans allowed entry brought COVID-19 testing supplies
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands defended his decision to allow two American permanent residents entry into the country and to quarantine at home, saying they brought much-needed COVID-19 testing supplies.
Three years in jail for breaking into buildings
AN Exuma man was sentenced to three years in prison for breaking into two government buildings and several restaurants between January and April of this year. Kejanno Morley, 21, appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with nine counts of s
Going out for a drink costs woman $500
A WOMAN who told police she violated the national curfew because she lost track of time while out drinking was fined $500 yesterday. She was among several people who appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes for curfew and lockdown infractions. Keva
Bahamas rendezvous as ships prepare to repatriate crew
NEARLY 20 Carnival Cruise Line ships will head to The Bahamas over the next several days as the final plans are put in place to sail nine of the ships to repatriate more than 10,000 healthy crew members who remain on board due to restrictions limitin
Let your light shine
COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has spawned a global health crisis and economic collapse. In order to survive, move forward and thrive we must unleash the creativity and resilience of the Bahamian people. Let us work together to stop the virus and rebuild The Bahamas.
We must innovate
“Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity, not a threat” – Steve Jobs.
‘PM, allow the elite athletes to resume training at TAR stadium’
With their season still hanging in the balance, high jumper Jamal Wilson is calling on Prime Minister Hubert Minnis to allow the elite athletes to use the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium to resume their training.
Joshua Burrows commits to Trojans
JOSHUA Burrows’ athletic and academic career will go the prep basketball route for the upcoming year.
Bach: 'We will all need to make the necessary adjustments to the new realities'
INTERNATIONAL Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach issued his first statement to the Olympic Movement on the social, economic, and political impact of the organisation in a post coronavirus world.
Gas stations 'ecstatic' at extension to 5pm
Gas station operators yesterday said they were “ecstatic” that the government has extended their opening hours to 5pm even though business volumes remain down by 60 percent. Vasco Bastian, owner and operator of Esso’s East Street South and Soldier R
The vicious cycle of lockdown, downgrades and stimulus cost
In the first of a three-part series, Hubert Edwards examines the dilemmas policymakers will confront as they seek to restart their economies with COVID-19 still lurking.
Bus drivers eye 50% 'new normal' passenger slash
Jitney drivers yesterday said they are looking at a near-50 percent capacity reduction on their buses as the COVID-19 “new normal” whenever they get the go-ahead to resume operations. Harrison Moxey, the United Public Transportation Company’s (UPTC)
Atlantis shows it has a heart
Atlantis has placed the symbol of a heart on top of The Royal, its signature tower, which is illuminated at night to show that despite its closure it is “Bahamas at Heart” and thinking about both its employees and guests.
Producer's 4,000 sanitiser bottles in 'huge demand'
A Bahamian hand sanitiser manufacturer yesterday said it can barely keep up with COVID-19 related demand even at “full steam production” of 4,000 bottles per day. Pepin Argamasilla, John Watlings Distillery’s managing partner, told Tribune Business
Atlantis uses closure to promote training
Atlantis yesterday said it has been using its COVID-19 enforced closure to focus on education and training for its workforce.Acknowledging that the pandemic’s aftermath will result in a raft of health and safety-related changes to its operating proto
