Bahamas Customs Officers to demonstrate?

by Rick Lowe (http://www.weblogbahamas.com)

Sometimes it appears our priorities are misplaced.

According to The Tribune of Thursday, August 27, 2009 Customs officers are reportedly going to demonstrate because the government is attempting to deal with alleged corruption within their ranks.

It is reported that Mr. John Pinder, President of the Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) said "The majority of customs officers are upset in the manner of which it was done (transfers and retirements) so they are of the view they might be next, so that's why we must (end) this behaviour..."

Allegations of corruption within the ranks of customs is rampant and have been circulating for many years. Customs officers living in mansions or driving the most expensive vehicles comes to mind for example.

So when the president of the BPSU suggests officers will demonstrate because they are upset that people are moved urgently or retired quickly and given little time to decide or accept the offer in light of these allegations it is surprising and speaks to our misplaced priorities.

Those many decent customs officers should be applauding the removal of alleged corrupt officers, not demonstrating in support of alleged dodgy behaviour.

We have so far to go.