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Hartley Henry Political Strategist-at-Large, Under Attack In Dominica

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Submitted by BU Source

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Vice Minister Ma Xiuhong met with Hartley Henry, the Chief Political Consultant of Barbados’ Premier, and his party in Beijing on April 22.

This advisor to the Prime Ministers of Barbados and Dominica considers himself to be the consummate political strategist, the indispensable darling of labour parties in the region… But there is much beneath the flash and dash of Hartley Hilvester Henry that is anathema to the good governance cloak he uses in the bids of clients to win and entrench themselves in the seat of government.

We have put together a dossier on the secret life of Henry which we are sure will be of interest to the people of the region. With Dominica’s election now slated for December 18th, 2009, Henry is once again attempting to secure a Labour Party win so that Skerrit can remain at the helm of government. With a mix of under hand dealings and maneuverings, Henry is moving full speed ahead on his mission to triumph through trickery and deception.

Based on a careful assessment of the range of questionable campaign activities in which he is engaged, we ask him to change course and to support the civil rights of the people of Dominica to a free, fair and lawful election of a government of their choice.

The items of interest in Henry’s dossier include:

  • Tax information.
  • Invoice information and methods used to ensure payment.
  • Evidence of under-valued commercial invoices on election promotional items.
  • Evidence of numerous, on-going extra-marital affairs.

Our requests to Hartley Henry are quite straightforward and extremely simple:

  • Abandon any thought of shipping ex patriot Dominicans in to vote.
  • Provide us with full disclosure of all projects in which you are working on for Roosevelt Skerrit.
  • Provide full disclosure of the source of financing for the Skerrit projects in which you are directly involved.
  • Provide us with the precise nature of your assignment with Roosevelt Skerrit along with the quantum and method of compensation.
  • Provide the names of the top three supporters of the Dominica Labour Party election campaign.
  • Advise and Demand that the DLP allows all opposition parties to use DBS, and that all political parties are given the same fee structure for their programs and advertisements.
  • Advise and Demand of your Friends at Kairi Radio Station that they do the same as stipulated above.

In the following days, we will be providing to BU the hard evidence supporting these and other accusations, unless Mr. Henry addresses and rectifies these alleged breaches of public good and civic rights of his own volition.

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99 responses to “Hartley Henry Political Strategist-at-Large, Under Attack In Dominica”

  1. Adrian Hinds Avatar
    Adrian Hinds

    Both Japan and the US are printing the money they are pumping into their econoies. Can Barbados do the same????

    Then ask yourself how long has the Japnese government prop up their economy? Can we follow the same path indefinately?

  2. Royalrumble Avatar
    Royalrumble

    Are Barbadians aware that the Prime Minister visited the home of the Central Bank Governor in an attempt to get some insight on how he would be able to pay Public Servants for the month of January and there after – first ever for a Prime Minister in the history of Barbadian politics. It is reported than the discussions were cordial – a polite way of saying that the Prime Minister did not get his way.

    The evidence is clear that the Government is in a serious financial bind and is unable to pay its bills. I am not trying to raise an alarm here when I say that early in the new year will prove to be a real challenge for Public Servants. Lay offs and salary cuts are on the cards for them and the rest of the work force can expect further loses.

    I agree with Ms. Mottley that this Government is out of its depth on how to deal with the challenges currently facing the economy. Government’s policy on energy, diesel, LPG and gas at the pump has more than forced Barbadian businesses to raise prices. This has further reduced the already depressed disposable incomes and this is having a snowball effect throughout the economy.

    This is the time of year when Barbadians go the extra mile and spend a lot of money and every effort should have been made to ease the cost of food and energy so as to allow for greater purchasing power in the hands of consumers. It seems quite clear this year that a lot of people would not be able to buy the level of foodstuff and other things as accustomed. Both beverage and food sales will be severely down not as a result of the economic recession but as a direct consequence of the gross incompetence and intellectual bankruptcy of this DLP Government and it’s economic advisors.

    What was Simpson saying to us when he asked a close DLP friend of his if Thompson is aware of what he is doing? Food for thought.

  3. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    Is America printing money or borrowing it from China?

    Printing money is where the Central Bank – in America’s case – the Federal Reserves) cover cost incurred by Central Government (Federal) in America.

    Much like why Thompson was summoned to the official residence of the Governor of the Central Bank, recently.

    Thompson incur cost/debt/expenditure – the Central Bank pays.

    But no more, hence the Prime Minister of Barbados being summoned by the Governor of the Central Bank to the governor’s official residence.

    UNHEARD OF IN THE HISTORY OF BARBADOS.

    TALK ABOUT D’MINISHING THE OFFICE OF PRIME MINISTER!!!!

  4. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    The $81 billion package — which is equivalent to about 1.5 percent of Japan’s gross domestic product — includes $39 billion to prop up regional economies and pay for public works projects.

    Environmental programs, like incentives to purchase energy-efficient cars and appliances, will receive $9 billion, and measures to increase employment will get $6.8 billion.

    The government will also offer loan guarantees for small companies to ease a credit crunch, the cabinet said in a statement.

    The stimulus package comes a week after Japan’s central bank took fresh steps to bolster lending. Japan is rolling out additional efforts to lift its economy, even as other countries consider ways to wind down stimulus measures during a nascent global recovery.

    Japan has posted two consecutive quarters of economic growth after taking a battering in the global financial crisis.

    The downturn slowed sales of Japanese-made machinery, electronics and cars.

    http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/09/business/global/09yen.html?_r=1&ref=business

  5. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    @ Adrian,

    In a way you have a point but let’s talk.

    Because you tried to give the impression that ONLY America and Japan are “printing money.”

    I want an opportuntiy to talk about Barbados. Because Thompson debt and spending is neither to stabilize or stimulate.

    But while you shape your response, read this, I might help:

    +++++++++++++++++

    “The US spends tomorrow’s money today,” he said. “We Chinese spend today’s money tomorrow. That’s why we have this financial crisis.”

    http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/economics/6146957/China-alarmed-by-US-money-printing.html

  6. EyeSpy Avatar
    EyeSpy

    Alex Fergusson // December 8, 2009 at 12:52 PM “… President Obama made it known to the world that he is being “surgical and creative.” In Barbados, David Thompson is doing the complete opposite. It is why the unemployment rate in the third quarter is 10.5% and climbing fast…

    Are you saying that the unemployment rate is climbing in Bim because PM Thompson is taking a different approach to Pres. Obama? Isn’t the employment rate in the USA climbed?

  7. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    @ EyeSpy

    You wrote:

    “Are you saying that the unemployment rate is climbing in Bim because PM Thompson is taking a different approach to Pres. Obama? Isn’t the employment rate in the USA climbed.”

    ++++++++++++++++++
    The simple point I am trying to make is that the DLP does not know what it is doing.

    Read here and see why:

    “In addition to proposing a tax cut for small businesses to encourage hiring, he also called for eliminating capital gains on these businesses for one year and suggested money left over from the Trouble Asset Relief Program should be redirected toward small businesses.

    He also proposed investing new money in roads, bridges and other infrastructure improvements, and offer rebates to people who make homes more energy efficient.”

    http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/09/us/politics/09jobs.html?hp

  8. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    This is not an economic debate. It is about collusion, bribery and corruption.

    Let’s stay focus:

    The DLP said that hartley henry master-mined it Jan. 15th electoral success.

    The DLP holds the view that David Thompson is today Prime Minister because of henry.

    Stuart is today AG because of hartley henry.

    Every Minister, diplomatic appointment, Senator and all who serve on Boards or hold office under this DLP-out-fit, do so because of and at the pleasure of hartley henry.

    He is they man. The DLP’s aim in politics is to serve CLICO and protect hartley henry.

    ISN’T TRUE THAT WHEREAS THERE HAVE BEEN ONLY ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION AS REGARDS THE FORMER ADMINISTRATION – THERE SEEM TO BE REAL EVIDENCE OF CORRUPTION, COLLUSION AND BRIBERY – AS REGARDS THE DLP?

  9. Royalrumble Avatar
    Royalrumble

    ·Eyespy said “In all honesty and to be realistic, can Barbados match up to those conglomerates; furthermore, does Barbados have the revenue to put into a Stimulus package”?

    ·Adrian Hinds // December 8, 2009 at 1:00 PM
    “Both Japan and the US are printing the money they are pumping into their econoies. Can Barbados do the same”????

    The answer to both these questions is a resounding YESsssss.

    Firstly, Eyespy you have to get rid of the small-man mentality to live in this world. Nobody is asking that we match dollar for dollar. What we asking is that we put up a stimulus package commensurate with the size of the economy and the immediate needs of the critical sectors. This is important if you are to save jobs and keep Government’s revenue from falling.

    Adrian Hinds as we speak this Government is printing money the only problem is that it is doing so for the wrong reason – to support consumption not investment capacity building. Government has busted the limit on its Ways and Means and will have to go to Parliament to raise the limit (print money) to pay public servants and other bills. Of course when the economy reaches this stage it in a crisis.

    When Thompson took over the Government there was over $2.7 billion in foreign reserves. It was put there by former Prime Minister Owen Arthur for Barbados’ rainy day. At the first sight of the recession, efforts should have been made to put a stimulus package in place that would have kept economic activity in the country at high level. In other words purchasing power (money in the hands of the consumers) should have been maintained at the 2007 levels and every effort made to extend assistance to tourism, construction and manufacturing sectors.

    But what was done? Purchasing power was slashed by more than 45% in the budget of 2008 and 2009 when Thompson raised taxes on every thing that moved. From businesses to the elderly bore taxes that were absolutely unnecessary. Thompson cannot find the money to ease the burden on pensioners, businesses and other spenders in the economy but he has been able to find $19 million in write offs for the Turf Club, $20 million for the Clico Mortgage Finance, and hundreds of millions of dollars in letter of comforts for subsidiaries of Clico throughout the region – without the approval of our Parliament.

    Look, the fact of the matter is that on January 15, 2008 an idiot took over this economy. Everything was done wrong and between trying to proved to Barbadians that he knew what he was doing and making the BLP look bad he has manage to destroy all the gains made by this country under the last BLP administration.

    I recall Professor Downes warning the new DLP Government not to implement any of the DLP policies. In fact he suggested that they should keep BLP policies going but what did the DLP do. We saw millions going towards Constituency Councils, free bus fares and summer school camps even in view of the recession. What are the benefits of these entitlements to this country during this recession? Zero.

  10. Royalrumble Avatar
    Royalrumble

    I agree with you Mr. Fergusson, this is not an economic debate. This is about the stark reality of corruption bellowing out of this DLP administration.

  11. Christopher Halsall Avatar
    Christopher Halsall

    @Alex Fergusson…

    You have been very vocal here on BU lately…

    So then let me please ask *you* this very simple question:

    What thinks *you* about the mandate and performance of the Barbados Fair Trading Commission (FTC)?

    (For those not deeply involved — the BB.FTC was established under the O.Arthur administration to “regulate” “Monopolies”, and then continued under the D.Thompson administration.)

    @Fergusson: What says you?

  12. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    IS THE DLP THE REAL FACILITATOR OR COLLUSION, BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION:

    ++++++++++++

    Under the laws of Barbados – CLICO is expected to provide, within four months of the close of its financial year, which is December – the information and details regarding the status of its Statutory Fund, and in particular, whether it was in surplus or deficit.

    The facts as known to the Prime Minister of barbados, the Attorney General and the Supervisor of Insurance – are that the Statutory Fund at December 31st, 2007, was in deficit to the tune of 93 million Barbados dollars.

    Surprisingly on the morning of the no-confidence motion, they were hurridly revalued as said to be $54 million.

    Still, this is an enormous hole in a Fund that is required by law to protect policy holders, in this instance, more than 40,000 in the event of financial difficulties.

    I do not know that the law gives the PM or the Supervisor of Insurance – a discretion in these matters.

    Further, having promised to stamp-out corruption, bribery and collusion – and having promised freedom of information and good governance, one would expect the Prime Minister, the Supervisor of Insurance and the AG to act – even though the Insurance Act does not place a duty on the AG.

    The existence of this Statutory Fund, as you may know, is required by Section 25 of the Insurance Act CAP 310 of the Laws of Barbados.

    It is simply a fund in which the Insurance Company must place in trust enough assets to match their liabilities so as to protect the policy holders in the event of there being financial difficulties that would make it difficult for the Insurance Company to otherwise meet its obligations to those policy holders.

    The DLP knows that Clico is in deep shit and the taxpayers of Barbados and it 40,000 policy holder are at risk.

    Is this collusion, corruption of bribery?

    Having alleged that it is: “squeaky clean,” then why is the DLP breaking the law (Insurance Act) (Prevention of Corruption Act) to protect CLICO?

    IT WOULD BE BAD IF THIS MATTER WAS BEING SPEARHEADED BY HARTLEY HENRY BUT THE ENTIRE DLP!

    Now you know why Barbados is in crisis.

    Transparency Internation – take note.

  13. Royalrumble Avatar
    Royalrumble

    Mr. Fergusson wrote,
    “ISN’T TRUE THAT WHEREAS THERE HAVE BEEN ONLY ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION AS REGARDS THE FORMER ADMINISTRATION – THERE SEEM TO BE REAL EVIDENCE OF CORRUPTION, COLLUSION AND BRIBERY – AS REGARDS THE DLP”?

    You are so right Sir, how else can you explain the request for bribery money owed to Hartley Henry paid to the account of Thompson and Associates? Indeed why in a recession would you raised the light, water and food bills for poor pensioners but would through millions of dollars in the hands of Clico and the Turf Club except for the reason that they will contribute to your election campaign?

    The proof of the pudding is in the eating and this DLP has been eating quite a few puddings. You can see from the sizes of their stomachs the among of Collusion Pie, Bribery Bakes and Corruption Candies they are eating while the citizens that gave them power suck salt.

  14. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    @ Halsall

    As I understand it, the Fair Trading Commission Act, Cap. 236 of the Laws of Barbados is an act to”

    “Provide for the establishment of the Fair Trading Commission, to safeguard the interest of consumers, to regulate utility services supplied by service providers, to monitor and investigate the conduct of service providers and business enterprises, to promote and maintain effective competition in the economy, and for related matters.”

    I think this is a very wonderful and progressive piece of people-friendly legislation – consistent with the core values and core principles of the Barbados Labour Party to promote fairness and what is right.

    It is sad that the DLP does not see people in this light – hence it having by-passed the FTC when it inhumanely increased Water Rates by 60%.

    But then CLICO does not need the FTC, neither does the BTF.

    They do not have to plead a case, the DLP willing give them sweetheart deals and golden handshakes.

    It is the poor man who now has to deal with a rise in kerosene and whether he will be able to buy food furthermore cook for Christmas.

    But where exactoly are you going with this?

  15. Christopher Halsall Avatar
    Christopher Halsall

    @Alex Fergusson: ”
    I think this is a very wonderful and progressive piece of people-friendly legislation – consistent with the core values and core principles of the Barbados Labour Party to promote fairness and what is right.

    OK…

    So based on your immediate above…

    Could you please then explain why the BB.FTC, while under the power of the BLP, agreed to the Price Cap Mechanism (PCM) for C&W (read: LIME) which was so very obviously against the good of the People of Barbados?

  16. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    @ Halsall,

    Did it break the law? Is it an Autonomous entity?

    Look at the definition of these words: “safeguard” “regulate,” “monitor,” “investigate,” and “promote and maintain.”

    There you go:

    ++++++++++++++

    Now answer this:

    Can anyone please say why was the Prime Minister of Barbados “summoned by the Governor of the Central Bank – to the governor’s official residence for a meeting?”

    This is UNHEARD OF IN THE HISTORY OF BARBADOS.

    TALK ABOUT D’MINISHING THE OFFICE OF PRIME MINISTER!!!

    Is the Prime Minister of Barbados and “errend boy” for CLICO, who can ALSO be “summoned to the residence of the Governor of the Central Bank?”

    David Thompson did say that he wants help from former Prime Ministers and Ministers of Finance, how to run the country – but “to be summoned by the Central Governor to the governor residence for a meeting,” has to be a sign of the time

  17. Spotting-Prejudice Avatar
    Spotting-Prejudice

    O David and the BU family, how much of this name calling and counter-accusations can I take? For goodness sake Hartley, spill your guts and defend your honour. Defend the Office of the PM for which you you are paid to advise. BLP crowd, do not get involved in labeling, you will be playing a game of tricks for which Hartley deals the hand. Set your own tone. Let the people of Barbados know once and for all that the Dems have never been ready for governance since the death of the Right Excellent Errol Barrow. They will fall apart at the seams, you need not go into the gutter in order to fight back. Please BLP and non-partisan people, do not allow a defenceless Harley to shift the game to his turf; you cannot beat a gutter-rat in the gutter — no pun intended — purely figurative language. I have no bias against Hartley, after all he is a self-professed acolyte when it comes to political shenanigans and perpetrations. His loyalty is like that of a mercenary, who pays — he serves. I did not think we would come to this in Barbados, Please PM, rise above the grim of the day; bring back respectability to that high office; put some daylight between you and Hartley. I know Hartley means well and is looking out for your interest, but he may be damaging you merely by association. Bring some sanity to this blog David. You are letting it runaway!

  18. Donald Duck, Esq Avatar
    Donald Duck, Esq

    Alex F

    Please remember that it is the 2008 financial statements for the following Barbados companies which we are still looking for

    (1) clico life
    (2) clico general
    (3) clico balanced fund
    (4) clico mortgage and finance

    These should all have been released months ago.

  19. Negroman Avatar
    Negroman

    It is amazing what the political lunatics & maniacs who are supporters & members of the Barbados Labour Party wish for Barbados .

    It is downright awful for the likes of Alex Fergusson,Royal Rumble & Sylvan Greenidge to come here on this blog and constantly post comments that are filled with the ,distortion of facts & lies.

    I have indicated previously how I would never vote in Barbados again and I am going to carry out that promise,however,I do not want Barbados ever to be led by a Mia Mottley or any of the political rackateers in the Barbados Labour Party.I am willing to suffer and struggle under a government led by any member of the Democratic Labour Party rather than being led by the political louts & touts in the discredited,corrupt,politically bankrupt and wasted Barbados Labour Party.

    Alex Fergusson,Royal Rumble & Sylvan Greenidge,Barbadians are not stupid that we will ever allow a bunch of political prostitutes & whores in the Barbados Labour Party to be in a position again to lord over the affairs of this island.

  20. Things that make you go hmmmmm. Avatar
    Things that make you go hmmmmm.

    poor Negroman….

    “It is downright awful for the likes of Alex Fergusson,Royal Rumble & Sylvan Greenidge to come here on this blog and constantly post comments that are filled with the ,distortion of facts & lies.”

    I’m sorry I didn’t quite see how the dithering over the QEH has helped Bajans. (no distortion there)

    Or that unemployment is skyrocketing? (no lie believe me I know)

    Wait and see? The new macro economic strategy of choice? (Thompson said so himself)

    No contract for the highway! So why is Thompy paying 3S money to keep it from going to court?

    Bajans are worse off under this government in every way. Tired innuendo and smears and empty talk of special audit this…. and secret that…. do not help. Nor does raising money twice to pay for the highway. Or trying to sweep the CLICO mess under the carpet.

    It’s not the BLP supporters lying, it was the DLP who was lying when they were telling Barbadians they were capable of running this country!

  21. Wishing In Vain Avatar
    Wishing In Vain

    When person such as these persons Greenidge and Jones keep wishing ill on the Barbadian economy do they not understand that they too will suffer not only DLP supporters so to me it is absolutely silly of them to wish ill on our island for simple political posturing and also remember your leader has more fat to feed off ( no joke meant) that you Greenidge remember you have that arrest order pending for that non payment of your debt, so yes she has more fat than you she will survive it is people like you and me that die first, so wake up and get a life and realise that she is leading down a silly path for her own gains not yours

  22. Wishing In Vain Avatar
    Wishing In Vain

    Maybe when David has a free moment he will one day tell the people who support him how many and the various different names that Sylvan Greenidge and Hederson Bovell use on his blog, these conversations with himself are really silly and maybe it is time that some order is brought to bear on the site.

  23. Spotting-Prejudice Avatar
    Spotting-Prejudice

    If there was ever a culprit on this site, WIV takes the cake. Why the complaining if Greenidge and Bovell come at you? Can’t you take your own medicine WIV and Hartley who are said to be one and the same. I aint picking no sides, I calling a spade a spade, but WIV you have been one of the most vicious and definitely the most obnoxious writer on this blog. So please back off anyone who chooses anonymity. Continue with your distasteful comments, at least you have support from some; and from me, you meet opposition. Why is this so? Let Hartley defend what the Barbados, Dominica, Antiguan, and other regional media have said about him. Let him come clean (so sorry to infer his sordid character).

  24. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    David Thompson and the DLP tightens the srews on Barbadians and inflict more unnecessary economic pain and suffering on the people of this country:

    +++++++++++++++

    From today the retail price of LPG per
    100-pound cylinder will be increased from $142.65 to $147.99.

    The price of the 25-pound cylinder will go up by $1.34 cents, and will now be retailed at $39.59, while the 20-pound cylinder will now cost $31.67 – an increase of $1.07.

    +++++++++++++

    David Thompson and the DLP are responsible for the high and rising cost of living. How can you cook now: high food prices and high fuel prices.

    If the BLP was in office – there in no way in hell that Barbadians would be paying so much for cooking gas.

    When the BLP was in office – a barrel of oil on the world market was US$104. yet Barbadians were paing a mere $1.46 per lite for diesel.

    Why are Barbadians being price-gouged by the DLP?

  25. J Avatar
    J

    “Evidence of numerous, on-going extra-marital affairs.”

    Ya lie!!! there is no way multiple women would say “yes, yes, yes” to HH.

  26. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    David Thompson is a Prime Minister without a “plan.”

    His vision for Barbados in an economic crisis, which he triggered, is: “wait-and-see,” while the DLP’s approach is – governance by delay.

    Barbadians who voted for change are now disappointed; feel betrayed and are very afraid.

    The people now have overwhelming proof that the DLP was not “ready” and does not now know what it is doing.

    THE PEOPLE DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE – RATHER THE DLP LIED.

  27. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    I too am concerned that having told Barbadians that he had a stimulus package before President Obama, David Thompson later said in the House of Assembly on November 17th 2009 – that a stimulus package would not be prudent for Barbados, and that – according to him – “a fiscal stimulus package would be unwise.”

    In fact, Prime Minister Thompson alarmed Barbadians when he said that he has been “doing a balancing act between waiting-and-seeing the economic recession and being proactive.”

    In contrast, a visionary President Obama made it known to the world that he is being “surgical and creative.” Mr. Obama added, “I am not interested in taking a wait and see approach.”

    President Obama also told Americans that, “we cannot hang back and hope for the best.”

    But in Barbados, David Thompson is waiting-to-see.

    It is why the unemployment rate in the third quarter is 10.5% and climbing fast, but David Thompson has no plan to save jobs or create some to replace those that are being lost, as a result of his flawed policies.

    But while the Prime Minister is flying around the world first class and staying in the best hotels there are Bajans who do not know where their next meal is coming from.

    It is an insult to us that the best this Government can come up with – is a non-policy to protect Bajan jobs.

  28. Curious Avatar
    Curious

    I am still baffled that it is ok for Mr. Henry to be paid by both the government of Barbados and the Govt of Dominica at the same time – Am I to take it that as he is now in Dominica, that the Cabinet of Barbados has suspended payment to him – he is paid at the rate of a minister – and based on what I have read in the Dominica press he is being paid large sums by the Government there – where is the decency – how do we know that for private profit he wont manipulate the two governments

  29. DLP Supporter Avatar
    DLP Supporter

    Hartley Henry spends weeks out of the country doing work for other governments but at the same time each and every month he gets his full ministerial pay from the Gov’t of Barbados. Can this be right? Even I as a DLP supporter cannot condone this. For eg he is now in Dominica until Dec 18th but yet he will get full pay from the Barbados Govt and paid in Dominica as well. Unbelievable. PM Thompson, please wake up before we end up being a one-term government.

  30. Avatar
    Anonymous

    Can and will anyone give the citizens of Barbados Mr Henry’s job description and a list of assignments undertaken by him to date. Just what does a political adviser do?

  31. Wishing In Vain Avatar
    Wishing In Vain

    please wake up before we end up being a one-term government.

    Please tell me WHO OR WHAT MAKES UP YOUR OPPOSITION GREENIDGE????

    Is it Owing is it Marshall is it Mottley, simply put none of you all have an answer to that none of you all know or can even guess who or what the opposition is, if you can’t tell the public, how do you expect the public to know?

    I know who is carefully running the affairs of this island now free of corruption, free of land deal to benefit a few, free of Ministers awarding contracts to their husbands to build GOLDEN SHOWERS, free of Road Works programs being carried out without proper contracts so no longer people like 3 S carrying away $ 47 Million and to this day not carrying out a stroke of work, we are free of VECO and its leeches free from quoting US $ 60 Million and then costing taxpayer $ 288 million, freeing us from your grip freed us from many more evils inflicted by you and the crooked BLP.

  32. David Avatar
    David

    The question of the role HH plays in government is a valid one. He has made the point in one of his articles that he is running off is existing clients who he would have been contracted to before the Barbados government appointment. Almost two years and he continues to be heavily involved in regional election campaigns. How long is too long? The people of Barbados deserves to know his job description if he is being paid with tax dollars. Let us not forget this government came into government on a promise that government consultants was not something it was in favour, especially when party hacks are involved. BU suspects the role of Hartley Henry in the current government will be a big issue on the campaign trail next election, let us hope there are no skeletons to cause a drag on the Thompson administration. Is the Henry situation an ethical matter?

  33. the hood aka robin hood Avatar
    the hood aka robin hood

    @ Wishing In Vain // December 12, 2009 at 5:12 PM

    So,WIV, with all this alleged corruption of the former BLP government, where are the charges that have been brought before the courts of Barbados?

    All the public of Barbados can hear after 23 months of “governance” by this DLP cabal, is about “special audits, audits, forensic audits! Nuff long talk where is the PROOF!!

    Strangely, with all the supposed corruption of the BLP this country’s financial affairs was “firing on all cylinders”!

    There was SUPPOSED to have been no contract with 3S so why is the DLP government trying to broker a deal with 3S to avoid a court case?

    Why is government seeking additional funds to finalise payments for work done on the ABC “hiway” when we were burdened with the astronomical increases with road tax which was supposed to pay for all the ABC work??

    Why all the additional cost overruns that we, the taxpayers have to fork out, and still no ease with congestion on the ABC Bypass? Can hardly refer to it as a “highway”!

    Why all the lies at election time? Just to get power? Is it all about power and not about the welfare of the goodly citizens of this country?

    I would not even bother to expect answers from you, for after all who or what are you but the usual pimp for the DLP!

  34. EyeSpy Avatar
    EyeSpy

    Curious // December 12, 2009 at 11:21 AM “I am still baffled that it is ok for Mr. Henry to be paid by both the government of Barbados and the Govt of Dominica at the same time.”

    I’ve heard of Executives working for 2 companies; the 2 companies are affiliated somehow but they receive 2 separate paychecks (one from each company). They are Salary employees so no matter the number of hours they spend on either job, they get their agreed to pay whenever due. It’s part of the contract.

  35. Pat Avatar
    Pat

    J // December 9, 2009 at 1:14 PM

    “Evidence of numerous, on-going extra-marital affairs.”

    Ya lie!!! there is no way multiple women would say “yes, yes, yes” to HH.
    **********************

    I agree. Then, with all the money he is allegedly making from several governments simultaneously, perchance he pays….

  36. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    Barbados under BLP stewardship was far less corrupt than any and all of the countries which hartley henry advises. Think about that for a while.

    +++++++++++++++++++++++

    This matter has gone on long but in the context of Section 8. and 9., of the Financial Administration and Audit (Financial) Rules, 1971 Cap. 5 of the laws of Barbados – inteligent people who think for themselves – find the DLP false accusation – vulgar, primitive and pure folly.

    If the BLP wanted to steal, as Dems put it – then why in an effort to promote openness, accountability, financial prudence and good governance – the BLP brough a 1998 amendment, which makes Minister personally liable for all public funds misspend or other?

    Where is the evidence on any government file by any Accounting Officer as provided for at Section 8. (2) of the Act hereto referred – which objects to any attempt of any BLP Minister of Board Chairman – to spend taxpayers fund in a reckless manner?

    The people who are talking about corruption are known and are only a handful of dems. In this regard, a simple class-act-suite would suffice.

    But, the Law of Equity requires clean hands. Much like the Merchant of Venice.

    However, the simple point I am trying to make is that the allegations by the DLP – as regards corruption on the part of the former administration – cannot be supported by law or facts.

    It is just the DLP trying to validate its incompetence with a distraction tactic.

    Here is something else to think about.

    How is it that the BLP is constantly being accused of corruption but Transparency Internation says that all of the countries, which hartly henry advises are far more corrupt than Barbados, which under BLP stewardship – was the least corrupt in the Caribbean?

  37. David Avatar
    David

    @Peter Wickham

    Looking at the photo on this blog and if we were to read body language there is a good case that you are uncomfortable sitting next to HH 🙂

    Not sure you would be up to responding but we hope you can. Is the picture telling a story?

  38. Anonymous Avatar
    Anonymous

    I APPLAUD HH IN ALL HIS VENTURES AND I WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS!

    HE IS DOING NOTHING DIFFERENT THAN WHAT WE ALL MUST HAVE DONE SOMETIME.

    KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK HH

  39. Alex Fergusson Avatar
    Alex Fergusson

    The DLP’s ongoing allegation of corruption is yet another in its never-ending-series of big lies.

    ++++++++++++++++++++++

    On what basis could the DLP constantly accuse the former administration of corruption, especially when at that time – Transparency International was telling the entire world that the countries, which hartley henry was advising – were far more corrupt than Barbados, which – then under BLP stewardship – was the least corrupt in the Caribbean?

    The truth is that despite the aggressive efforts of Denis Lowe, George Bispham and others within the last two years to dominate and feed at the trough, which have resulted in a Cabinet reshuffle and the holding of two retreats – their efforts are still not enough to cause Barbados to lose its prestigious rating as the least corrupt country in the Caribbean – according to Transparency International. Why?

    Because in terms of bribery, collusion and corruption, Barbados under the stewardship of Team Barbados Labour Party – was crystal clear and squeaky clean.

    This therefore points to the folly of the allegation by the DLP.

    It must also be note that it was Team BLP, which amended the Financial Administration and Audit (Financial) Rules, 1971 Cap. 5 of the laws of Barbados to make Minister personally liable for all public funds misspent or wasted, where the PS warned in writing against them (Ministers) doing such.

  40. David Avatar
    David

    Any news of the Dominica election?

  41. Wishing In Vain Avatar
    Wishing In Vain

    Yes Skerrit won again, I must say congrats are in order for our very own son of the soil Mr Hartley Herny who structured this victory some months out of the calling of the election date, Well Done Hartley very well done I am sure all Barbadians are proud of your outstanding effort and yet another failure for Mottley in her fight with you, you beat her in Barbados and now you beat her in Dominica she remains in Opposition in both countries.

  42. Amused Avatar
    Amused

    I agree that it would be prudent for the Barbados Government to declare precisely what function HH holds with it and on what sort of contract. Just to clear the air.

    My reading is that HH is an independent contractor who hires out his expertise in his particular field to whoever wants to employ him.

    Respectfully, that is no different to a building contractor employed to build a house. You cannot say to him, “If you are going to build my house, you cannot build for anyone else.” That is called ‘restraint of trade’ and is illegal.

    Equally, however, that contractor ought not to indulge in conflict of interest. In the case of HH, he could only be accused of conflict of interest if he were to be contracted to both DLP and BLP IN BARBADOS.

    Dominica is a sovereign independent nation – as is Barbados. And apart from the fact that it shares a geographical space with Barbados that makes certain agreements and trade between them desirable, the governance and government of one cannot be seen by an independent contractor as grounds of conflict. To do so would be to suggest that one was a vassal state of the other – which I see is what has happened and which is total bovine excrement. Rather like our friend Allard suing in Canada for what is a solely Barbados matter.

    Therefore, as there is no conceivable conflict and the Barbados organs of government have no standing or jurisdiction in Dominica and vice versa, HH, as an independent contractor, is FULLY within his rights to accept work from both.

    That both government have similar policies and agendas is irrelevant. All that does is, hopefully, reduce the bill HH sends them, since much may be precedent and therefore more easily researched. HH may not personally agree with many of those agendas and manifestos (even if the health of his business forces him to pretend that he does – that too us business). But that is not relevant. He figured (and proved) that he could help them win the election.

    Is somebody trying to persuade us that the BLP of Arthur and Mottley did not also have a consultant like HH? I don’t buy that. Of course they did. The reason HH and not they are in the spotlight is because HH’s clients won.

    This whole meritless and unfounded (we are still waiting for these explosive documents that were going to show up HH) attack is inappropriate. HH is not running for public office. His private life and proper, legally conducted business is nothing to do with anyone.

    Sorry, folks, but this report looked at the start as if it was a fishing trip instigated by someone with amazingly similar ‘tactics’ to those constantly exhibited by Peter Allard and his BFP blog. As I have watched it all, the similarities, such as the “We will be posting evidence”, which has never been posted, and the wild conspiracy theories with no foundation, are just too close for my theory to be discounted.

    So, can somebody tell me what ‘philanthropic’ undertaking Allard is involved in in Dominica on the subject of which the Dominica government may have told him to go to hell? I am not a betting man, but I would bet there is something.

    Grenada, watch out. You are next.

  43. Avatar
    Anonymous

    Amused

    HH “clients” campaigned on a platform that promised inter alia greater transparency and accountabilty in leading and managing the affairs of Government. HH “clients” paraded the list of the consultants under the BLP as evidence of maladministration. So I have no more problems with HH than I do with say Jada and Rotherly who are building two office blocks for the gov’t. I am asking the Gov’t (not HH) to detail what HH does, how much he is being paid and to cite the relevant laws and associated rules that permit his employ. That the BLP did not follow suit can only be justification for their (the BLP’s) dismissal from office under two years ago.

    As for what happens in Dominica, I couldn’t care less.

  44. Anon Avatar
    Anon

    @Anonymous. Then these are matters that you have to take up with HH’s employers, not with HH. And that is NOT the government of Barbados. HH’s employer in Barbados, as I understand it, is a private Barbados organization called DLP. It is NOT the government of Barbados. So, if I were DLP, I would tell you to go to hell and mind your own f****** business.

    By the way, I completely agree on the matter of FOI and privacy-protection legislation. It is VITAL in any society today. It is pure common sense for a multitude of reasons. You will get no argument from me on that one at all. And if Mr Thompson has not got it properly in place come next election, I will be holding up my clothes and hollering loud as sh***.

    HOWEVER, you cannot have freedom of information without protection of privacy – they two are inextricably linked.

    So, when you start talking about a political party (not Government, but a political party) using contributor’s funding to pay HH, you are not discussing the right of citizens to know how the government spends its tax dollars. What you are discussing is essentially a PRIVATE MATTER.

    With respect, therefore, Anonymous, you are confused and in danger of trying to promote a double standard. Which is that you almost certainly believe and defend the privacy of your business and income, yet would deny it to HH because he contracts work for a private organization that might some day become the government and have the responsiblity for your tax dollars.

    You have no right to enquire about the expenditure of anything but your tax dollars, otherwise the very FOI laws you are promoting might as well just not be enacted.

    A point further. I am extremely concerned about this plot to fingerprint people at our ports. Without FOI with penalties for breach stringently enforced, it is big brother at its most extreme and will end up confirming the prophecy of George Orwell.

  45. Avatar
    Anonymous

    Anon

    you clearly do not know that you have written nonsense with regard to HH employment. If HH was only a political consultant to the DLP I would agree with your post. However, HH has been appointed an advisor in the Office of the PM. It is this post and none other that I am concerned with. The PM’s office has not indicated that HH is being paid by the DLP and not from the Treasury of the Gov’t of Barbados. So unless you have information to the contrary, my position remains unchanged i.e. I am asking the Gov’t (not HH, not the DLP) to detail what HH and all other such appointees do for the Government of Barbados (not the DLP, not David Thompson), how much they are being paid (i.e at what public service salary scale) and to cite the relevant laws and associated rules that permit their employ. Such information is usually contained in each letter of appointment for every civil servant whether temporary or permanent and the appointment is usually published in the Official Gazette. You have explicitly stated that I have every right to enquire about the expenditure of my (better put “our”) tax dollars.

    Now if this information has been made public and I have missed it then there is no need for further clarification.

    On a related note it would be interesting to hear from the DLP when it next canvasses for our electoral support, how HH’s appointment (and others) is materially different from those appointments of the BLP that the DLP so stridently criticised. Unfortunately no support in this regard will be coming from the BLP as they await their turn to dip their snouts in the public trough.

  46. David Avatar
    David

    The truth is BU is under the impression HH is a consultant attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. If BU is incorrect we would welcome a clarification. Further to Anon’s comment, HH must be aware there is a public perception of his merged role at the party and government. You can write about whether he is paid by party or government, because of the public perception does it matter?

  47. Anon Avatar
    Anon

    IF HH is paid by the Government in any capacity, then any taxpayer is within their rights to demand that his salary be made public. It cannot be governed by any offical secrets legislation.

    If HH is paid by the DLP to be a political adviser to its leader, it is a different matter. Then there is no right to enquire. And I don’t care if that leader IS the PM.

    So, PM, we know that you read this blog. Are you really going to put us to the trouble of finding out which it is instead of making (or getting HH to make) a simple statement here?

    I am betting on HH being DLP-paid. If this is the case, then the whole thing becomes a non-issue.

    @David. If you allow public perception to rule, there is, respectfully, a problem. BIG one. Take as an example a man accused of a crime – any crime. On the evidence before the court, he is found innocent. However, in the court of public perception (aka public opinion) he is guilty. I don’t need to take this line of reasoning any further, do I?

    Contrary to the majority, I took comfort from the PM’s promise to introduce FOI and privacy legislation and, realist that I am, I also knew he was indulging in SERIOUS underestimation or wishful thinking in his assessment of the time it would take.

    It is not just slapping an act together and having it passed into law. In most countries, there is an entire government department that deals with such legislation – a commissioner to whom you apply if there is any doubt of your entitlement to the information you seek. Indeed, in one startling instance when a lap top containing sensitive information was lost, over 4,000 private citizens had to be contacted to be warned that their personal information might have been compromised. Can you imagine the months of research that took?

    I applaud the PM for how far he has got to date. BUT, I do warn that there is still a LONG way to go. Because if we don’t get it right, any one of us may suffer as a result. So let us take the time and get it right.

  48. David Avatar
    David

    @Anon

    You have stretched my public perception reference a little, only meant in a political sense as it relates to perception in politics.

    The following link to a Nation newspaper sheds some light on this matter of HH and is terms of employment. Although not explicitly stated its contexts supports an easy conclusion.

  49. Anon Avatar
    Anon

    @David. Sorry. I bit of a reach. Thanks for the link. I see your point. But the matter is simply handled with a statement. Yes, HH is contracted by the Government and he/his assignee is paid $??? per ???? OR, HH is employed by the DLP and his salary is none of anybody’s business. I agree that this is the way to handle it.

    I think a lot of politicians are making a grave error in Barbados. For decades, our leaders have done their utmost to ensure that we are one of the best educated countries in the world. Yet, they seem to want to keep on underestimating the intellegence that they themselves have generated. The types of Bajans who could be fobbed off with pap are almost extinct.

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