General Secretary of NUPW Dennis Clarke
In recent weeks the underbelly of the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) has sadly been exposed on BU, the result of a vigorous election campaign. Whether it was the revelation that the membership of approximately 10,000 has reached a level of lethargy where a quorum of 50 to start the clock at union meetings is a struggle. An outstanding cellphone bill of $6,000+ by newly re-elected President Walter Maloney (why does this last sentence seem odd?). The strange procurement policy of the NUPW used to purchase an Audi for General Secretary Dennis Clarke. A defunct National Council which appears to have devolved all powers vested in it by the Rules and Standing Orders to General Secretary Clarke and President Walter Malaoney. Last but not least among the issues is the ‘talk’ that a quid pro quo deal was hatched between government and the NUPW to trade public sector pay hikes in return for a building at Newton to house the highly touted buying club.
In can be argued the NUPW is one of the most influential unions in Barbados. It seems to control the poll in the public service and because a significant percentage of government expenditure is wages, we the public have a vested interest in how the NUPW manages its business.
One thing which has concerned BU coming out of the back and forth in recent weeks is the extent NUPW membership is disengaged. The current state within the membership means a small band of people have been able to co-opt the running of the affairs of the NUPW to feed their own narrow interest.
Indicative of a high level of disenchantment resulting in low moral is the saga currently playing out at the Customs and Excise Department. This is a department which is responsible for collecting government revenues as well as safeguarding our ports of entry from drugs, guns and the like. A Customs Department that is not motivated becomes a national concern given the configuration of threats tossed up by our brave new world.
The latest edition of CESS News (Customs & Excise Shop Stewards) paints a dismal picture of the industrial relations climate which exist between the stakeholders. Bear in mind the role of the shop steward in a unionized environment. Shop Stewards (NUPW) at the Customs and Excise Department have been stymied in their efforts to secure a meeting with the Comptroller of Customs who operate ‘from their Ivory Tower at the Barrack Building.’
Here is a list of grievances labelled SERIOUS ISSUES TO WORKERS by CESS:
Training and development are serious issues to workers
- Appointments
- Rotation of staff
- Access to overtime
- Allowances
- Security
- Occupational safety and health
- Access to customs areas
- Arming
- Qualification order
- Overseas training
Sometimes it appears that our bosses are not too concerned about the above. It seems that management is not too concerned when:
- Officers are acting for long periods of time and are not being paid
- When you have a DC Admin, yet the officer in charge has not developed or implemented any programmes and initiatives new or old
- Where officers are sent to work in areas but are not given the specialist training to do an effective job
- When an officer is rotated to a point to show that those in authority have power
- When rotation does not make sense
- When management only visits when there is a crisis
- When the union delegates always have to request a meeting
Management needs to come with plans and tell us what their vision is.
It boggles the mind how the Customs and Excise Department can have serious issues which have been outstanding for years and yet do not feel motivated to participate at NUPW meetings to agitate for better representation. Isn’t the Customs and Excise Department several hundred strong? Customs seems to be a good place to start canvassing for names for those interested in invoking Rule 8c of the NUPW Rules & Standing Orders.
All these customs issues are old and as a member of the union I can well remember these matters going before the NUPW before. cetainly some time in the late 1990s the issue of rotation and overtime were sore points and the two issues are one and the same because they really add up to more money for customs officers.
This money thing has been the geatest hurdle for customs for waht the problem is only customs officers refuse to accept that it is their fault.
The rotation allows officers to move from one area to another and to get special pay/allowances. What happens is rather than deal with the process a list is provided and some officers are giving the special pay/allowances and all returns to order for another 5 years then another grouip gets fat and another gets vexed and the same thing happens. Apopointments also bring extra money and priviledges and the same thing happens a group gets fat and another quarrels. The other matters are only added as padding to hide the abopve money issues. Check the shed at the port and the asbestos roofs the shed area. Customs officers only complain about money thats all, thats all, thats all and the authorities and the union and the members get to know who will benfit and the few are mafde comfortable and the matters are dropped. They will make the Shop Stewards shame and break their hearts. It happens again and again and i dare say thisd time is no different. No unity just selfishness.
BU wishes to remind those connected or have an interest in this matter that it should be obvious key decision makers/stakeholders are not monitoring via BU. Use the interactions for constructive engagement for the benefit of the membership who should always be ONLY objective in the exercise.
I ma informing that bossman is not Richard Green and also saying that the name stays. If it makes him uncomfortable he should change his name. Since he works at NUPW and is uneasy with the comments I will avoid the nUPW but the name stays
Why have union members on the blog gone silent on this matter.
Seems like there is a calm before the storm and plans are being made to have the siognatures collected. I hope that Mannasseh, Caswell, Pearlie, Danny, jo jo, maxine all nupw members will get going and have the resolution drawn up and presented. Come on Manasseh take the lead
Donald White
You wrote, “Come on Manasseh take the lead.”
Are you Kidding? That is like asking him to give birth. You must realise by now that these people want someone to do the work for them: they don’t want to get their hands dirty. All talk, that is why Clarke and Maloney have survived so long and will continue to do so until they retire or the Almighty intervenes.
@Caswell
Sometimes I believe that you should leave somethings alone, I could recall Maxine asking whether you think that you are the only person in Barbados with balls.
The old people say that you can carry a cow to the pond but you cant make him drink. Since you have an interest in the reform of the Union I am hrowing out a challenge to you to assist in cordianting the signatures in the event tha the meeting is not called voluntarily. This would show what material you are made of. As I said before in a blog, I have witten the GS on matters and copied to the the members of the Eexutives and i was informed that the said the letter was read at the said Exeutive meeting.
There is a protocal to be followed and after that has been exhausted then another apporach can be taken. do things in a measured way.
I do not blow hot air.
I gone.
Manasseh
What protocol are you talking about. Tell us what it is. You are just finding a way to get people do the work for you. Don’t make excuses get off your behind and do some work. I am not easily goaded and I have never been influence by peer pressure. Find some other fool to do the work for you.
Caswell don’t you have your own union? Trying to understand the request to assist in the petition from King.
On a related note, any comments on NUPW in the news today about the need for government to talk to the NUPW regarding PM Stuart recent declaration on cameras at the airport?
Manasseh ducking out -do some leading for once and stop d talking .
Government -Nupw all the Same (nupw a division of Government) Clarke blowing hot air . Buying club =Cameras
David
I am the General Secretary of Unity Workers Union. We are actively recruiting the same persons that NUPW should have been representing. It would therefore appear as self serving if I went about soliciting signatures to rectify problems at NUPW. The petition is a simple matter, but the Manassehs of this world do not want to offend: they want to be in everyone’s good books.
You also asked,
” On a related note, any comments on NUPW in the news today about the need for government to talk to the NUPW regarding PM Stuart recent declaration on cameras at the airport?
It would appear that neither the Prime Minister nor the NUPW understands the fears of customs officers. They are concerned that persons outside of Customs would have control of the cameras; also what would become of the tapes; and if the criminals could somehow get access to those tapes. The officers who dilligently perform their duties would be at risk. The tapes should not be pointing to the officers’ work stations.
Sometime ago the airport authorities installed cameras and they were monitored by Airport Security guards, a female guard noticed a person with a package who was not observing the rules. She reported the matter and the offender was able to caution her to mind her business when she went to take the bus home.
Imagine that scenario leading to the death of a customs officer of members of his family. When I worked at the airport in 1980’s, there was a customs officer who had an allergic reaction when he came into close proximity to marijuana. Needless to say, he was able to detect the drug much easier and he did. Someone threatened to burn the house down with his bedridden father inside if he continued to hold people’s shipments of drugs.
Individual customs officers would be easily identified and targeted by criminals if those cameras are monitored outside of the Customs Department.
I said that the tapes should not be pointing to the officers’ work stations. I meant Cameras not tapes.
@Caswell Franklyn: “Imagine that scenario leading to the death of a customs officer of members of his family.
Just for clarity, are you arguing that Cameras and DVRs should not be installed because those who obey and enforce the law at our airport are at risk of threats of death?
Christopher Halsall
I am sorry if I did not make myself clear. Neither the customs officers nor myself has ever said that cameras should not be installed.
The cameras should be under the control of customs for their safety.
The cameras should not be pointing at officers when they are performing their duties.
In the early 1980’s I was stripped to my socks and searched by an over zealous customs officer. There was no talk of cameras in those days but if there were someone would have made good money selling images of my manhood.
@Caswell Franklyn…
I appreciate your answer.
But…
@CF: “The cameras should not be pointing at officers when they are performing their duties.
Have you been in a bank lately?
High resolution video cameras focused on each and every officer. Recording everything they (and their clients) do.
Why can not (should not) the same level of observation be used at our international airport?
Christopher
You asked, “Why can not (should not) the same level of observation be used at our international airport?”
At the bank the high resolution camera is a deterrent to embezzlement by the teller and also a visual record to protect against or verify claims from customers.
However, at the airport and seaport customs officers are seeking to disrupt the business of international criminals who would not think twice about eliminating a customs officer who cause them to lose millions. Therefore you cannot photograph them performing their duties in order to protect them on the odd chance that the tape end up in the wrong hands.
@Caswell Franklyn: “However, at the airport and seaport customs officers are seeking to disrupt the business of international criminals who would not think twice about eliminating a customs officer who cause them to lose millions. Therefore you cannot photograph them performing their duties in order to protect them on the odd chance that the tape end up in the wrong hands.
So, therefore, you are arguing that our ports are “open” to international illegal enterprises, and it would be dangerous to try to stop this.
Please correct me if I’ve misunderstood you.
Christopher Halsall
You wrote, ”
So, therefore, you are arguing that our ports are “open” to international illegal enterprises, and it would be dangerous to try to stop this.
Please correct me if I’ve misunderstood you.
Again my apologies for not being clear. We want our country to be rid of illegal drugs and other contraband, however, we do not want our customs officers being placed at unnecessary risk while performing their duty. You don’t have to photograph the officer searching and seizing illegal drugs, guns or what have you. That might be a death sentence for the officer who is performing his duty dilligently.
The cameras are needed and have been under discussion for over ten years. Clarke again with hot air. The PM if he is to be believed said that the officials at the airport that musy include the customs unless they moved. The Customs can monitor the cameras no problem just get them in and stop the talk.
As to the petition, I have to agree with Caswell. Mannasseh needs to lead if he wants to be taken seriously A letter to the Prsident and Clarke is a procedural issue cause they will not take Mannasseh on because he and all the rest of us have been crying about the cell bill and nothing has haoppened, Do you think a letter from a losing candidate will get attention. I doubt it but signatures from 50 or 60 MUST get attention. Come on Mannasseh, Forde, Danny, Dask GReaves, Burke all you who fought against the President each only needs to get 12. Some of you got 300 plus votes and cannot get 12 signatures. Maybe Caswell is right you all are cowards and dont want to get hands dirty well well well well. Come on be men and women!
Took a break from the blog cause I was afraid that the petition would not be done but realize that iuf it is to be done then i should try and put in my two cents effort. I just read Bosman and agree that some thing must be done now and that somebody has to lead. I cannot but can support. Mannasseh if you can prepare the petition and leave it at the NUPW office, your building, the Warren Complex and the credit unions with the guard stations I bet you the signatures will come. I will go in and copy one and get it full out if oyu put up a draft on dis blog tonight i could put it together and circulate it to thjose places and we could get the signatures. I agree with Bosman that u need to lead. I came out in support of you cause u appeared to be upright and honest. I still believe you are and u have a responsibility to stamp out any acts that can mess up our union. I waiting on you and expect you to come through. What ever became of the other two presidential candidates Forde and Hinds? They gone way or in hiding? Forde got the next highest votes and should be in this big time. Caswell like he got wanna number right and maybe he should join back the union and run for president or general secretary.If he got anything it is balls and that is what is needed men with balls
@Caswell Franklyn: “You don’t have to photograph the officer searching and seizing illegal drugs, guns or what have you. That might be a death sentence for the officer who is performing his duty dilligently.
But what about the officer who isn’t performing their duty diligently?
Might that be the real reason the Cameras are so frightening?
” You don’t have to photograph the officer searching and seizing illegal drugs, guns or what have you. That might be a death sentence for the officer who is performing his duty dilligently”
————————-
I really do not see this as a valid point, it is not. An organisation of which you speak would not need a tape to ‘finger’ the person who grasps their goods, do you not think that such an organisation knows who are the officers and who are on duty anyway?
So, any such tape is irrelevant for that issue. However, the contrary is true, that a tape will prevent a customs officer bypassing a container, ensuring a required search is made, as per process.
My question is, has any headway been made into the murder of the former head of immigration?
THAT is a question worthy of note.
By the way, what you speak of, the DPP and Magistrates go through with every day i.e. sentencing the worst criminals, including drug dealers, to jail.
What extra protection do they have?
Again, I say this is an irrelevant objection re the customs officers.
And one last point, as some are into assessing possible scenarios of concern.
In some scenarios, the cameras may actually protect the customs officers, from superiors, or from those who would interfere.
For example, imagine an officer checking a shipment, if a superior, minister or some such persons appears within the camera, it would instantly bring suspicion as to what that individual is doing in the area, what motive is driving them to confront or deal with a customs officer in such scenario.
Possible?
The issue of managing cameras deployed at ports of entry can’t be rocket science.
What is the best practice from how it is managed elsewhere?
I heard that the President calling staff over the coals and chastising them and the General Secretary sitting down and skinning his mouth like a wounded puppy. What is going on at the NUPW? I hope that this is only rumour and have no doubt that there is some error here because the new Executive mmust know that the responsibility for the staff rest fully in the hands of the GS and no President or elected executive member has any right chastising any staff member. I heard about it this forenoon and will get my partner to call the union and get the details and u can bet that if what I hear is true I will be back on this blog tonight or tomorrow with some choice words for the GS in fact I will not hide behind any blog name but will raise the matter with him and the rest of the executive.
I cannot believe that Cedric Murrell who ios president of the CTUSAB, big up in the credit union and former president at the same nupw could sit down and accept that behaviour from the president and the cowrdly act of the GS. Roy Greenidge too should know better and merlene as well she teaches PRDS and knows better.
It is matters like this that allows weaklings like Maloney to push about his weight. Any time you allow any executive member to interfere with the relationship between the staff and him/herself trouble start and Clarke like he knows nothing about everything. Maloney could never risk that with Joe Godard never, never, he would have been put in his place. I just have to get the details. I will be back just cannot believe this foolishness.
Crusoe
You wrote,
“By the way, what you speak of, the DPP and Magistrates go through with every day i.e. sentencing the worst criminals, including drug dealers, to jail.
What extra protection do they have?
You really don’t understand. The DPP and magistrates do not get to deal with the kingpins. They merely catch and sentence expendible foot soldiers. On the other hand it is the customs officers that actually put a dent in the profits of the real drug lords. They cannot be identified.
David wrote “The issue of managing cameras deployed at ports of entry can’t be rocket science.”
But it might be actuarial science. get my drift.
@Caswell
See you point. Isn’t the government ultimately in control especially after the declaration by the PM last night that cameras will be deployed?
So who are these forces at the GAIA who want to control the Customs? Is the Chairman a Czar?
What you have posted about Customs being a law enforcement agency and the need for them to control the monitoring activity by their personnel is reasonable, why therefore can’t a winning position between the players be reached?
The issue of managing cameras deployed at ports of entry is not rocket science. It is about power. Some operatives at the ports want to control customs even though they have no legitimate role. When the Airport was first privatized, there were officials of GAIA Inc. who believed that the airport was theirs and could go any where and do anything even in restricted customs areas. One day I happen to see the then Chairman of the airport board with a pass on his shirt go into the customs area and take bags from the conveyor belt. He was not a passenger on the day in question: I was. Customs did not intervene to stop him probably because they are being neutered.
Customs is not only a revenue collection agency: it is also a law enforcement agency. Which other law enforcement agency in this country has outsiders monitor them with cameras. Customs must be in control of any cameras in the customs areas at the ports of entry.
We constantly hear of reports that police beat suspects, but we do not hear of calls for some other agency to monitor them.
Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?
David
Government should ultimately be in control but the problem comes from senior public officers who advise them. Ministers mouth what they are told by their officials and these officials crave more and more power.
For a number of years the Comptroller of Customs has been acting as a permanent secretary and there is an acting Comptroller who even though he has the power is acting after all and has to be careful before he does not get the job.
A little off the current topic, but is GAIA Inc. a financial success and, if it is, does it present an opportunity for the Government to divest a portion to Barbadians through a public share offering and use the proceeds to reduce debt or finance another investment.
Caswell, so you are telling me that currently the ‘lords’, have no way of knowing which customs officer ‘fingered’ their shipment?
Are you sure that they cannot or do not have a ‘weak link’, surely they can be told and then that customs officer himself pointed out to them?
If we think that they will rely on recording to identify an officer, I think that we are giving them little credit, as you say, these are not nice people you are dealing with, they will stop at any means and I very much doubt that lack of cameras will deter them.
What you then need is the will and means of the police to go after those lords.
The fact that none have ever been charged is another matter entirely.
@all
The issue of cameras in Customs has been on going for a number of years and there need a to an agreement on the matter. When ever i travel i can feel the eyes of camers every where. It is acccepted that their use is a necessity and hence their introduction should not be delayed.
Should officer have cameras pointing at them as happens in the bak and other facilities? Should cameras be placed in the police stations where persons are being interviewd etc. Cameras, if properly managed can be useful tools.
Once the cmares are functioning well, everthing would be recorded on the activities and I consider those activities to be monitoring of the Officers’ performance in whatever way and therefore should be done by someone who is responsible for the officers and who the officers are accountabale to.
@all bloggers
No Caswelll does not have my persoanl number, he knows where i work.
Donald White, I have heard what you have heard. The GS is responsible for the day running of the Secreatariat. If he has issues with staff above a certain level, he would have to discuss the matter with the Executive and subsequently the Council for any action that may be deemed necessary, The GS is an employee like the rest of the staff.
Sometimes I feel I should ignore Caswell’s ranting as he is the only person that knows about getting up off the chair and finding solutions. As I intimated Caswell, you do things your way and I will do it my way and in my time
Maxime can you call me at work as you know my work number. If I knew yours I would certainly call you.
I gone
In a recent exchange on facebook BU was rebuked for using labels to describe the behaviour of Black people especially. Perhaps it was in reference to the use of ‘Educated Fools”. The person promoted the view that we live in a time where we are too quick to slur and demonize others. Instead we should be more diligent in identifying the underlying causes and use the process of discovery to engage in constructive dialogue. Have to say the exchange was thought provoking and David of the BU household for sure has brought the learnings from that exchange on board, going forward it will influence the thought process.
Now can anybody explain why in a world post 911 where cameras are installed at ports of entry to protect the whole all over the world, leaders and citizens alike in Barbados would be engaged in a debate about how to damn well do it?
You see what we mean about applying labels?
Manasseh you keep runnung and ducking -stop d talking and do some Action . IF YOU ARE PRESIDENT IN WAITING THEN SHOW IT, DO WHAT HAS TO BE DONE ,—–THE ISSUE IS THE MONEY CRYING (MAMONEY and WEDSITE CLARKE ),WHO YOU KNOW WILL LIE ,AND LIE ,THE INVESTIGATION MUST COME SO START THE BALL ROLLING .THE RULES TELLS YOU WHAT TO DO ,THE SOOMER THE BETTER .
@David / Caswell,
Not being argumentative, but if people are scared of cameras in public departments, then betetr get rid of administration computers that have emplyee details on file too, because all like now, hackers could have provided the drug lords with a full list of all customes officers, addresses, phone numbers etc, together with any administrative data like who is on duty etc each day.
And y’all worried about cameras???
Another question, if the social partnership is so strong in Barbados and is held up as a model for the world, why does GS Carke have to go public on the issue of rolling out cameras? Isn’t this one of those issues because of security and other concerns which compels the parties to clear the obstacles in quick time?
David -Clarke is afraid of his shaddow, he see CTUSAB AS a threat to nupw (both clarke and Walter)but not realising that the workers will be better off by all unions working together .the cameras must come for the better of all ,the main problem is that custom officers need to live off they salaries and protect Government funds
The GS is free to make any comment and does not have to wait on the CTUSAB and therefore I have no problem with hi making a statement. What I have a problem with is the lack of sense he makes whenever he makes a statement. one of the bloggers noted that the cameras issue has been around for sometime and in a readio news cast a matter concerning the use of cameras has been ongoing between the airport and the unions. What talk is required now? What has the union and or the government to talk about after so long. The issue of manning the cameras has been long discussed, the plcement of the cameras too. The cameras must be put in and the sooner the better. I am betting that if the USA said tomorrow that those cameras had to put in or a ban of us citizens travelling to Barbados will be issued the next morning the cameras would be in place. I believe so. If the locxation of the cameras create a problkem then u move them if the monitoring creates a challenge reassign it but get the cameras in place. They can protect all of the parties. As for Clarke I think the airport staff should ignore him and deal with Smith, Burke or Caswell they make more sense and follow up on issues until they are resolved. He has a tendency to let things drag on and on. I believe it has to do with retension deficit and or low attention span. Both of Clarke’s is limited and leads to a scxatter brain approach to problem solving hence a tendency to get personal and to respond depending on the players and their cloeness to the seat of power.
It is amazing how Barbadians tend to speak with such authority on matters, even though they have little or no knowledge about the subject.
A number of years ago, cameras were introduced at the Bridgetown Port. Customs officers resisted and it seemed like the entire country came out against those officers and accused them of all manner of indiscretions. I did not join in but I marvelled at the way Barbadians were cutting their own throats.
Those cameras were installed because some of the persons who were behind introducing PriceMart to Barbados complained that the barrel trade was not abating as they had expected because everything that were coming in the barrels were now available at PriceMart. They complained that the only way the barrel trade could still survive was if customs officers were not charging the correct duties. So in order to verify that belief cameras were installed to spy on the customs officers. I am told that the resolution of the cameras were so good that you could pick up hand writing clearly. I challenge any of the players to deny the accuracy of my statements in this regard.
Caswell I am sure that yu are correct that the motivation or the hoidden agenda for placing the cameras at the port had to do with protecting the interests of the selfish mercantile community. I have no doubt you are correct. But does that negate from the need now to provide a more secure environment and a system that allows any charges of bad behaviour to have resolution or any challenges to procedure to have the vasis for review and correction. I think that we all need to agree that better security is needed. Then I maintain that this request for talk will only lead to delay amd a fall back to the same stalemate that led to the recent situationj. I suggest that the officials including the custom and immigration officials and the Shop Stewards have knowledge of the right types of cameras, the right location and the best group to be responsible for their monitoring. I am confident about that on the basis that cameras and port security did not start and end with Barbados.
Let me state for all, CUSTOMS OFFICERS ARE NOT OPPOSED TO THE INSTALATION OF CAMERAS.
Cameras should be part of the arsenal of the customs officers to adequately perform their duties. The problem is who control these cameras. In today’s Nation NUPW General Secretary referred to the use of cameras to dismiss airport staff for buying from duty free shops. Are you aware that Customs have a statutory responsibility for those shops but are not included in the persons who have access to the output of the cameras.
I do not get your point, Caswell. Are customs officers entitled to buy duty free or not? Your last sentence makes no sense!
Jack Spratt
My last sentence makes very good sense but I feel that it is a matter of your comprehension.
I never said or indicated that customs officers are entitled to buy duty goods.
What I tried to say, in that last sentence, is that Customs have responsibility for monitoring those shops but are not provided with the tools to do so.
Don’t be so quick to jump on me: re-read the comments first as it would appear that you have a little lag between reading and understanding.
So what point are you making about the customs officers buying from the duty free shops. Why mention it? Are you sure you have the right person who is not understanding?
@Caswell
Are you familiar with this matter?
Is there a link to be made to what is happening now?
Jack Spratt
I NEVER said anything about customs officers buying anything from duty free shops. Please read the post again.
I referred to Dennis Clarke’s comment in the press about two staff members being dismissed for buying from those shops. As I understand it , they were security guards. (They were alleged to have committed the offences on December 23, 2010 and were dismissed at the end of March 2011, having continued to work for the intervening 3 months. Incidentally, they were represented by Clarke)
My concern was that Customs have a statutory responsibility for duty free shops but are not given the tools to carry out that function. Instead others without the responsibility have access to the best surveilance tools.
Please don’t respond with your nonsense: you are fast becoming a vaxation to the spirit.
Caswell, you mention about Barbadians commenting based on ignorance, but any process can be examined validly, based on the process, without extraneous matters like alleged monitoring by persons connected to Pricesmart, as you have raised etc.
Your reasons for objecting to the cameras, which you clearly did in your early posts, have now changed, as comments have replied and asked valid questions.
You now say that there is no objection to the cameras, fine. So, we can move ahead and install the cameras, it is just a matter of agreeing the who supervises the cameras, excellent.
Thank you Mr Franlyn for doing a good job stateing the position of the customs officers a position which is based on law .It is unfortunate that the union which represents the Customs officers is not forceful in representing the officers who pay their salaries . You made a valid point customs has a legal responcibility to monotor the the duty free shops. All shops wishing to become dutifree shops must apply to the Comptroller of Customs and satisfy ceatain criteria before Customs grants them that status. Jack Spratt totally ignores the point that you are making .And asks about customs officers and dutifree liquor . THERE ARE SOME OUT THERE WHO HAVE A BIAS AGAINST CUSTOMS OFFICERS and are quick to attack them and ignore the facts . The point that Caswell was making is that Customs have a legal responcibility to monitor the dutifree shops and should have access to the cameras . GAIA only interest is to receive the rent from those shops.Customs should be in charge of the Cameras at the Airport . GAIA is a private sector company which is servive lead and focuses on the facilitation of Tourist. Customs is a lwaenforcement agency which is over 100 years. Do you think g4 could operate cameras at st Anns Fort or the Central Police Station or the Airport Police Station ? The Customs is the Customs of Barbados we seem to forget that. Where else do you find a private sector agency monotoring a goverment law enforcement agency. It may be happening in Barbados to the Customs Officers . But it is not right. It is rediculous.
With respect to the search of the lady at the AIRPORT. The public has be quick to condemn the Customs. Two lawyers have written articles in the media about searches with respect to the Customs Act. What about the IMMIGRATION AND THE POLICE. The immigration officers detain suspects .They have lockups . What about the plain clothes Police officers of the Drug Squad whose offices are in the same compound as the immigration and who work CLOSELY with the immigration. I am 100 sure that when this matter is over the GOOD REPUTATION OF THE customs officers will be maintained. Where are the article about searches with respect to the POLICE and the immigration act.
Crusoe
You wrote,
“Your reasons for objecting to the cameras, which you clearly did in your early posts, have now changed, as comments have replied and asked valid questions.”
Could you or would you point out the earlier posts where I objected to cameras. That NEVER happened: read a little slower please.
David
Thank you, I was not aware of the ILO complaint. It was before I went back to NUPW.
No problem Caswell, what is immediately noticeable is that this is a matter dated to 2005.
Hi Caswell, I quote you here..”I am sorry if I did not make myself clear. Neither the customs officers nor myself has ever said that cameras should not be installed.
The cameras should be under the control of customs for their safety.
The cameras should not be pointing at officers when they are performing their duties.
—————-
While you have indeed not directly said that cameras should not be installed, you have said that the customs officers should not be recorded in the performance of their duties.
That is in essence a rebuttal of the use of cameras, for it makes any ostensible placement, impotent.
Crusoe
What is wrong with you: I don’t believe that anyone could be this silly.
The cameras are to be in place for the safety of the officers, and to ensure that people entering Barbados do not breach security. How does focusing on officers’ writing achieve either of those goals.
There are those who feel that the officers have something to hide . That is a simplistic position based on ignorance about Customs . The concern for the safety and confidetiality of Customs operations is not an issue . Why should GAIA have intimate details about Customs yet Customs does not have intimate details about them . So only Customs officers have something to hide . On several occassions drugs have been found in the departure area and the intransit area which ARE primerily patrolled by private and GAIA security and G4S. No agency is perfect. When you enter the court room are cameras and cell phones allowed there . Maybe we should put cameras in there to t beef up the security there. Should all areas be under camera surveillance? Customs have a right to monitor cameras in the areas they operate in . Each agency have areas which they consider restricted areas . TO ALLOW ANOTHER AGENCY TO MONITOR THOSE AREAS makes a mockery of the term restricted. No corporate specialist or HR manager can tell me anything about security. GAIA is an agency where its top mamagement are qualified in these areas . Their focus is to run an efficient airport facility. To increase passenger satisfaction . Its focus is to enhance Barbados tourism product. There is a conflict between tourism and security . One moment they are talking about Security the next they talk about tourism. GAIA is not truely a security entity but an impersonator in the security arena. In recent time the Airport has granted permission for the operation of a meet and greet operation in the restricted area. Ridiculous. This has been done to facilitate the rich and famous . So we have the VIP lounge and the meet and greet. This could pose further challenges to Customs security . But they have the ear of the politician.
When you start wrong there will always be problems the authorities ignored the Customs statutory responcibility for Airport Security and sought to elevate the Airport Authority. The politcians in their ignorance. However the Customs Act has not been repealed and until it is repealed Customs Officers will keep on shouting…
Crusoe, Customs Valuation rules speak to the need for confidentiality between the importer and the Customs . A Customs Officer should not divulge what has transpired, except for purposes of the law courts if requested to do so.. If an external agency has audio of discussions between customs and importer that constitutes a breach. If a cameras can zoom in on documentation presented and infomation can be extracted by a 3rd party that constutes a breach . If you have detained a drug suspect one would feel very uncomfortable that a 3rd party who is not an employee of the Customs has intimate details of the event .We have no control over who controls the cameras yet they have this advantage over us . Which could one day be to our detriment.
@heavydrop: “A Customs Officer should not divulge what has transpired, except for purposes of the law courts if requested to do so.
Accepted.
@hd: “If an external agency has audio of discussions between customs and importer that constitutes a breach.
Accepted.
But… This does not nullify the argument for cameras (without microphones) and DVRs.
Primarily, security cameras are there to be audited if something “goes down”. To be able to tell who was where when — not necessarily to determine who said what.
And I agree with you that the cameras should not be so focused as to be able to read documents (such fine focus results in a very small area of coverage anyway). But they should be able to determine who was where at any particular time in any part of the secure areas (wide field-of-view).
The problem I personally have with Customs being in control of the cameras and the DVRs is what if something “goes down”, and then the records somehow go missing.
It’s happened before, as we all know.
Might you (and Mr. Franklyn) accept the option that the CJ’s office have sole control and access to the cameras, the DVRs, and the associated data-sets at the airport and seaport?
There is an old saying: “Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?” Literally translated as “Who will guard the guards themselves?
I believe that when a guard knows they’re being watched, they will guard better. Or, at the very least, are less likely to guard worse and/or submit to temptation.
@All… Just putting this out there because I don’t know the answer.
Are the Immigration Officers (those we encounter behind short “bullet proof glass” both leaving and entering Barbados to whom we have to submit our passports) also represented by the NUPW?
@All… And then a follow up question:
Exactly who is responsible for outgoing security at GAIA?
Who controls all those scanners immediately after outgoing Immigration before the passengers board the airplanes?
(Sorry; I know this is a Friday. Immediately after a Prince has taken a Bride. But sometimes the serious should take precedence over the irrelevant.)
Christopher Halsall
It is impossible to convince someone when his mind is already made up. It appears that whatever is explained, you return to your preconceived opinions.
There are cameras all over the hospital for security purposes but you don’t find any in the surgery where the doctors actually perform their duties. The cameras are there in order to twart any breaches of security before the potential offender gets to the surgery and hurt the patient and staff.
Similarly, cameras should not be there to spy on Customs and Immigration but to be used as a tool to ensure that the staff and others using the ports are safe. How would you be able to detect a potential offender who intends to cause harm to people using the ports if the cameras are focused away from them and pointing on the staff.
@Caswell Franklyn: “Similarly, cameras should not be there to spy on Customs and Immigration but to be used as a tool to ensure that the staff and others using the ports are safe.
To this we actually agree.
But, going deeper, honest Customs and Immigration officers would be comfortable being audited.
Please correct me if I am wrong.
Christopher
Honest Customs Officers have no problem being audited. The problem comes when honest officers are photographed seizing drugs and the drug lords somehow get access to the images of those honest officers. The drug lords would know who to KILL.
Taping officers performing their duties can potentially lead to them and their families being harmed. Already, Customs officers have been threatened for performing their duties dilligently. Now you want to identify them for those who do not already know who they are.
@Caswell
“The drug lords would know who to KILL….”
****************************************
That is a fairly lame argument. it is well below your usual high level.
Officers can be identified by the person being searched, by persons accompanying them, by other officers, etc etc- just as likely as by any misplaced video…
Are you going to suggest that they wear balaclavas next?
It is a challenging job – just like policemen, prosecutors, security guards, and miliary personnel.
Get over it.
If they are not up to the challenge then they should ask for transfers to the post office to sell stamps…
The purpose of the cameras is to ensure that established protocols and rules are followed. This protects all law-abiding officers. …. and of course the records should be properly secured.
…when we drive vehicles accidents may happen, and persons get injured and even killed – but would you argue for a ban of driving to avoid these possible accidents…?
DRIVE SAFELY…. and keep the video records securely.
“The drug lords would know who to KILL.”
LOLLL so how come dem aint get kill yet after all dem drug busts? Bushie I agree dat is real lame from someone like Caswell.
It might just be that corruption is so rife that it will expose too many people if cameras are installed.
@Caswell Franklyn… Just for the record.
I note, with interest, that you actually haven’t answered my questions.
Might you (or anyone) speak to *exactly* who controls the scanners (body and hand-luggage) immediately after the outgoing Immigration Officers at the Barbados’ international Airport?
Caswell Franklyn | April 28, 2011 at 7:48 PM | Crusoe
What is wrong with you: I don’t believe that anyone could be this silly.
The cameras are to be in place for the safety of the officers, and to ensure that people entering Barbados do not breach security. How does focusing on officers’ writing achieve either of those goals.
————–
Caswell,
What is wrong with you yourself? I have never mentioned customs officers writing, I could not care less. But, you have mentioned NOT focusing on customs officers, that they not be identified. I merely pointed out how ireelevant that argument is.
Yet, you now focus on irrelevance and refuse to address that which I have rebutted, your ridiculopus argument that the customs officers could be ‘identified’.
Of course they can, and the drug lords probably have a list, as we write, even without cameras, do you think they are stupid?
I note you rush to call people silly, whatever, without answering the points given, when your points have been shown to be nonsense.
Cameras should and will be installed. Get over it. And, if customs officers think that they cannot be identified without cameras, they are in cloud cuckoo land.That is a red herring introduced to avert the impending.
Further, legislation should be implemented to bring customs officers under judicial scrutiny, where suspicion exists that one may be assisting illegal activities.
Hence, in such cases the Police should be able to seek investigation of bank accounts, lifestyle etc.
Too much has gone on for too long. Time it stops.
Island Gal also has it right that corruption could be exposed. That is one of the reasons for cameras, not just security.
Like it or lump it, they will be introduced.
Crusoe
Where do you get your information. The installation of cameras at both the air and seaport had nothing to do with catching corrupt officials according to Government. They claimed that the cameras were being installed to prevent Barbados being blacklisted as a safe location as a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York.
You are also calling for legislation that is already on the books. Honest Customs Officers do not fear legislation designed to capture offending officers, as a matter of fact they welcome it.
You should be aware that most of the cargo is not opened at the ports. So what nonsense are you talking? How can cameras at the ports detect Customs who are inspecting containers at business places? Are you advocating that a camera crew follow each and every Customs Officer when the go to inspect containers around the country?
Governments sole stated reason for installation of cameras was NATIONAL SECURITY concerns arising out of the 9/11 attacks.
If I can paraphrase the PM, It appears that there is also a galaxy of clowns out there jumping on the bandwagon of criticism of Customs Officers
@Caswell Franklyn: “Governments sole stated reason for installation of cameras was NATIONAL SECURITY concerns arising out of the 9/11 attacks.
But might this not be the only reason for the installations?
A reasonable question.
Just rambling but cameras or no camel ‘s rass money gotta mek, pepull gotta tek what duh cud tek
Caswell come on leave the cameras alone. I believe that the customs officers including their manangement will have some say in where the cameras are placed and who operates them. The continued defence only breeds suspicion on the work of the customs officer and without any basis for it.
We are aways fast to accuse our own of all types of wrong doing without proof. We seem not to recognise that we need evidence before starting innuendo and rumour.
LEAVE THE CAMERAS ALONE AND GET MALONEY TO PAY BACK THE MONEY HE HAS ADMITTED GUILT.
Please focus on MAmoney and Wedsite clarke ,we need a strong UNION, lets remove THOSE MONEY CROOKS .WE NEED A CLEAN UNION TO LOOK AFTER OUR INTEREST AND THOSE OF OUR UNBORN CHILDREN –IN AN HONEST MANNER AND EFFECTIVE MANNER .
Maxine & Robert
It is the union’s role to defend Customs Officers but that function has been neglected for far too long. Somebody has to defend the honour of Customs Officers. We have a galaxy of clowns jumping on the bandwagon and giving the impression that all Customs Officers are crooks. I don’t believe that for one minute. They might be a few, but only a few so we can’t allow to be tarnished by the actions of a few.
On the other hand your focus on Maloney paying back $6,500 is far too narrow. Check the other months: your heads would grow. Even that is negligible in comparison to the wastage elsewhere in the NUPW.
Four years ago, the union recruited a not so young lady to do a staff audit of a relatively small staff of 28 persons. To date that process has not been completed but the lady remains on staff taking home in excess of $5,000 per month. Speaking with the other staff members, none of them knows what she does to occupy the day maybe except lunch and getting her hair done.
April 27th
Donald White promised to inform us if the president is harassing staff I am still waiting for the results of that investigation
Bro Franklyn regarding the last entry May 1st. With all that we have read from you could it get any worst at NUPW. You were invited to enlighten us. But you are bring little pieces at a time. Why not reveal the full menu so we may be fully replete. Please tell us all unless there was a secrecy act. I do believe that you are not a member of the fraternity
unsure
there is nothing to wait for
you can get up and go and find out what is going on
wuh yuh waiting fuh ?
The caption of this article I believe is so misleading…. Clarke cannot represent anybody. Bluntly put he is inept and frankly stated, unable to represent neither man nor animal
why clarke remains then ?
people aint give two hoots
too many females in the system
you need some men to fight
women gossip and lift their skirts to solve problems
men back their shirts and fight for issues
give me men
I hate working with women–too much maliciousing and minding of peope’s business instead of working to better things. and a woman boss! too hard on women –actually to hard on everybody !
cuss me !
I wonder where these cameras will be installed ,in the search rooms where paxs are stripped search remember the word privacy and under the customs law these conversations are to be between two parties no third party to be involved the only person to have access to the cameras and data should be customs, the law is clear ,the office where the guns and ammunition are stored or in the lockers where the bags are stored please enlighten us, and who will mann the said cameras ,a private security or customs .I hope they know what they are doing.
Tina only those on the inside can give the truth or most of the truth. Even if and when there is a Special Meeting things of such will not be discussed but we want to know that situations we government workers complain about are not perpetrated and condoned at the institution we look to for representation. I heard about the situation where Maloney TRIED to embarrass the employee and the executive just sat there. Especially the one who return to bring order back to the Union. You shouldn’t expect anything from the ‘MaMoney follower’ and excuse the others who are new and the fourth timer who has nothing to offer
Unsure
The situation is far worse than anyone on this blog has disclosed so far. My revelations to date are only the tip of the iceberg of corruption that exist at NUPW.
I believe that the call for a special general meeting to deal with the phone bill is short sighted. NUPW needs a forensic audit and an enquiry into the day to day operations of the union. That should be the focus of the members right now. I am sure that members would like to know about the wholesale theft of Medicare funds, some of which have gone into building apartments for rent and not for the union.
NUPW needs to be torn down and rebuilt it seems
Either that or accept and live with the crap !
This situation seems to be totally whack !
It seems There is no coming back
hack !