LIKE many Islanders, I am sure, I was shocked to read the recent article about Housing Minister Terry Le Main’s decision to give 1(1)K status to Tony Buckingham.
Reading the article certainly painted the picture of a flamboyant character who had been involved with business activities that would leave most upstanding people feeling uneasy; a mercenary who had become involved in both oil extraction and diamond mining in war-torn countries.
If one delves further into the past business activities of Mr Buckingham, it becomes even more intriguing. A search on the internet will uncover allegations about a host of activities, some of which I am sure are not 100% accurate. But if only half are true, one must ask questions.
Should we be inviting a man into our Island whose fortune is made as a direct result of war and corruption?
Can our politicians honestly say that Mr Buckingham is not a threat to our Island’s reputation? Or does the thought of his tax contribution make morals fly out of the window?
Mr Buckingham’s wealth was founded on the misfortunes, misery, poverty and blood of others, whether it is through direct mercenary activities or by extracting mineral resources in those same countries.
It is time that we looked at whom we allow to enter. Merely allowing someone to gain residency due to his wealth is not enough. The history of that person must play a part, and in this instance we have put money before morals.
Towerside, Mont Sohier, St Brelade.