Comment history

Bahamianbychoice says...

My main goal is that I am unsure as to why after what I perceive as a competent BPL Board and an independent consulting firm both determined Shell to be the best fit and both recommended this to Cabinet. However, out of all the bids only NF is also being considered up and above the recommendations of professionals in the energy field. Who in Cabinet is qualified to evaluate such bids? How did NF even reach Cabinet if they were not recommended..by either the BPL Board or industry consultants.

Re Jamaica ...the personal monthly costs are still a struggle for the local ..that has not changed. Any company that introduces LNG will reduce the carbon footprint..its the door to door costs that need to be carefully studied as Jamaican's have not enjoyed the cost savings as promised.

I agree Shell Bahamas is operated by FOCOL but this is Shell NA which I doubt very much includes FOCOL in anyway.

On Shell, New Fortress battle for BPL deal

Posted 6 April 2018, 10:03 a.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

My hope is also that an independant review/audit of the process to choose the final company will/has been done..ensures fairness and transparency for the Bahamian people regarding such a critical decision.

On Shell, New Fortress battle for BPL deal

Posted 6 April 2018, 4:39 a.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

I agree the PLP consultants were same ones that caused chaos in many areas....and the same ones that recommended this NF without proper research. If you remember they tried to rush to have the contract signed prior to the election. I doubt any investment by NF in Jamaica benefits the people..at this point they pay higher prices and are locked in so who will the investment benefit...Jamaica or NF and for what purpose?

Is FOCOL involved/same as Shell NA or are you assuming.

I am questioning how the BPL board AND consutlants have both made a recommendation for the same company after completing an extensive review i am guessing of multiple bids..yet somehow NF ends up at Cabinet level...along with the recommended company..no others...just NF. I find that unusual and again question who is qualified to review those bids..is there any power engineers sitting in Cabinet?

My only agenda is to encourage persons to do their research...ask questions and dont be swayed by smoke and mirrors ..of any company offering to pay...that always comes with strings! Something that sounds too good to be true usually is.

I totally agree this is a very important decision for the country that will affect future generations...be informed with accurate information. Ask questions..

On Shell, New Fortress battle for BPL deal

Posted 6 April 2018, 4:07 a.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

What I find odd... is a highly competent Board and consultants BOTH have recommended Shell. Why is New Fortress even being considered at cabinet level? I am sure their bid was reviewed by the board/consultants already..how they jump the line up to cabinet level! Who at Cabinet level is qualified to even review/understand these bids? Is there anyone??

I hope they also check how New Fortress has handled Jamaica. I heard they made all kinds of promises and I believe the cost of power is actually now more expensive. I believe Shell won the bid in Jamaica originally as well.....then New Fortress "mysteriously" was awarded the contract..pleassse.....I hope that none of the present sitting Cabinet Ministers have any special interests. New Fortress is owned by hedge fund persons...and we know how that goes..payoffs. Doesn't New Fortress own Tropical..which has shares in the Port and now connections to CFAL? Not sure..all sounds abit sketchy....Also this claim they will provide additional financing...that is no favour..what are the strings attached for that!! I would like to know. Shells owns LNG..NF would have to buy.

Also why run a pipeline from the Port through high density areas to Blue Hill Power Plant...isn't that dangerous?? The Port is so close to downtown and the cruise ships....tourists in general. I am not an expert...just doesn't seem sensible. Shell suggestion to use Clifton Pier seems a better fit. Mind you...being close to the cruise ships may be the bigger plan as I believe all cruise ships are changing over to LNG and doesn't the Bahamas hold one of the largest ship registries?

My hope is Cabinet will make the right decision for the Bahamian people..not for any special interest groups. The Bahamian people need a break!!!! Will be interested to see how this turns out.

On Shell, New Fortress battle for BPL deal

Posted 5 April 2018, 4:41 p.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

The Bahamas has one of the highest rape rates in the region in general. The Social Services Minister is well aware of this.....or should be... and you would think she would lobby to protect the women in this country. The government needs to send a message that women are valued as citizens and contributors in this country..as are men. It is simple equality and protection for all. It really makes me wonder if she is up for this position...does she even value her own contributions as a woman? This particular ministry requires a compassionate yet strong person...not sure she is it...

On Rolle: We should not rush over rape issue

Posted 20 December 2017, 12:58 p.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

It appears this board and leadership team are determined to move the company in the right direction which is refreshing as I am sure it is quite a task! Given the recommendations/observations from the forensic audit which was published in the paper..a stong theme suggested the accounting department as well other areas needed to be reviewed..combined with the theft ...I dont think the leadership team had any other choice...it must be demonstrated that they are working in the best interest of the Bahamian people..regain consumer confidence. This to me demonstrates the leadership is prepared to make the tough decisions....though never easy when it concerns persons losing their jobs.

Bahamianbychoice says...

I think Mrs. Osborne has exactly what it takes to move the company forward. There has been an forensic audit completed and recommendations are being implemented. There is an operational audit underway which will better target resources and funds. There is a new CEO and COO and funding is being sought. My hope is this forensic audit will discourage any further foolishness from happening!! I am not aware of any previous board chair or board in general that have been this focused on regularizing and moving this company forward while ensuring transparency to the Bahamian people! This is no easy task!

On BPL acts to tighten contract process

Posted 10 November 2017, 1:27 p.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

I don't think it is 7 Bahamians in place of 3 expats..as if it takes 7 locals to complete the same workload as 3 expats. Rather it sounds as if restructuring has taken place which include ceasing the need of the 3 expats and creating 7 positions that will be more target specific, therefore, more productive. At the same time saving money. There are capable Bahamians who are more than up for this task.

They just need to be given the chance to perform their job without interference from greedy agenda driven politicians.

Sounds like for the first time this company is making traction in the right direction! Well done Mrs. Osborne and fellow board members!! Keep it up!

On Losing expat staff helps BPL save $3m

Posted 2 November 2017, 3:38 p.m. Suggest removal

Bahamianbychoice says...

Miller is not objective nor credible. I do believe this new board is the best that BPL/BEC has had in recent history. Chairperson, Mrs. Osborne, is known to ensure transparency, fairness and corrupt free business practices. All of which this company has solely been lacking. Imperative to have this in place so the company can move forward in securing alternative power sources and not be a cash-cow for corrupt politicians and employees!!