reEarth : Environmental issues in The Bahamas

Published On:Wednesday, June 08, 2011 By MEGAN REYNOLDS Tribune Staff Reporter mreynolds@tribunemedia.net

EXCAVATION of a yacht basin at Big Bell Island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is underway as owner the Aga Khan forges ahead with development plans.

Around 4.32 acres of rock is being dug out around a shallow salt pond on the southeast corner of the island to create space for boats up to 164ft long at a depth of 14ft below the Mean Water Level (MWL).

Silt curtains have been installed to minimise damage from dredging, before the 80ft wide access channel is dredged to give boats access to the marina at the 14ft depth. (more…)

The Cabinet Minister and the Prince’s helicopter

THE PLP never cease to amuse us.

Knowing the party’s own free-ride history, we were surprised members would have the temerity to venture into the debate on whether Environment Minister Earl Deveaux should have accepted Prince Karim Aga Khan lV’s helicopter to fly him to a meeting with the Bahamas National Trust at the prince’s Bell Island development. (more…)

Minister and the free rides in Aga Khan’s helicopter

By MEGAN REYNOLDS

Tribune Staff Reporter

mreynolds@tribunemedia.net

ENVIRONMENT Minister Earl Deveaux has confirmed he accepted free rides in a luxury helicopter from the mega-rich owner of a private island in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park with development applications before his ministry.

However, although he is inclined to approve the development, he denied that his opinion would be influenced by a helicopter ride.

“I don’t think a helicopter ride could buy me and I don’t think it could alter my opinion,” the Minister said. (more…)

Minister refuses to respond to ‘baseless’ $1m donation claim

By MEGAN REYNOLDS

Tribune Staff Reporter

mreynolds@tribunemedia.net

ENVIRONMENT Minister Earl Deveaux refused to respond to “baseless” claims he facilitated a $1million donation to the Bahamas National Trust from billionaire landowner the Aga Khan, who has plans to develop in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. (more…)