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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
USA gives David Smith 30 years; sends him back TCI jail ...cont’d Continued from page 1
According to court documents, for more than three years, Smith executed a scheme to defraud more than 6,000 investors located in the Middle District of Florida and elsewhere out of more than $220 million. Smith led investors to believe that he was investing their money in foreign currency trading and earning, on average, 10 percent per month, when in fact he was not trading their funds. Foreign currency trading is a highly volatile and risky investment vehicle that is regulated in the United States by the Commodity Futures Commission and the National Futures Association. Smith also conspired with others to launder approximately $128 million of proceeds that were obtained as a result of the wire fraud scheme. According to a statement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office wishes to acknowledge that considerable investigative support has been, and continues to be, provided by foreign law enforcement agencies and governments, including the Financial Crimes Unit with the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force, the Financial Services Commission in Jamaica, the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team in Turks and Caicos, and the governments of the United Kingdom, Turks and Caicos, and Jamaica. Additional support has been provided by the United States’ Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the National Futures Association. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bruce S. Ambrose. Meantime, Smith’s attorney, Oliver Smith (no relation) was reported in the Jamaica Observer newspaper as saying that David was in “good spirits”. “We expected a sentence within that range and there other options to explore. My client is in good spirits because we expected a sentence in that range and there are good options down on the road," his attorney Oliver Smith told the Observer. However, the attorney declined to reveal what those options might be. Prior to the sentencing, friends and family members of disgraced foreignexchange trader David Smith submitted letters to the United States District Court in Orlando pleading for mercy for the man who led the Olint Ponzi scheme. In a memorandum filed in court last week, Smith's lawyers noted that despite pleading guilty to 23 counts, he has continued to receive moral and emotionally support from his family and friends who regularly visit him while he is incarcerated. The lawyers argued that Smith started Olint intending to actually trade on behalf of his clients. "Mr Smith in fact did this and was able to achieve significant gains for his clients in the very early days of operation. The initial success was the oxygen that fuelled an increased
demand by additional individuals requesting that Mr Smith trade on their behalf," the lawyers submitted to the court. "Not wanting to disappoint, he submitted to the overwhelming pressures of the need to succeed and strayed from his original aim," added Smith's lawyers. Excerpts from the letters submitted to the court were contained in the memorandum filed last Friday. Growing up, Dave served as the perfect example of what I wanted my own husband to be like, and when considering my choice in a mate, I looked for the qualities that Dave exhibited as a husband and how he treated Tracey as I wanted to be treated in the same exact manner. - Rachel Christian, cousin Mr Smith was also one of the brothers who gave me encouraging words when my wife and I were going through a difficult time. He, being a father of four beautiful children, made
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
his words resonate in my head allowing me to find the strength to deal with the situation and, in turn, helped me be a pillar of strength to my wife. - Bradley Jules, friend, church member He is a good person, a good friend and a wonderful father. The sudden separation of David from his four young children, age ranging from nine years to 17 months, has caused intense agony, unhappiness, crying and trauma to their young lives. They constantly talk about how 'they miss Daddy', who has always been there for them and is now absent from their lives." - Sybil Goffe, mother-in-law Mr Smith and his family are neighbours of my family. He has always been very respectful to my family and me. He is always willing to assist in whatever capacity he could and has always displayed neighbourly love towards us and for this we are very grateful. Even though I was not affected by the financial part of this ordeal, from a family point of view, it is very hard seeing his children trying to cope without their father. - Arlington Musgrove, friend, neighbour
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011 AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
Fares Flying low over reDjet Fears? By Sir Ronald Sanders
Editorial Cartoon
The appearance of the low-cost carrier, REDjet, in the relations between the countries of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) has tossed up a number of issues, especially the conviction by the public that the cost of air travel in the region is exorbitant. The complaint about the high cost of travel was being made well before REDjet made an appearance. At one point, it caused LIAT -- the airline owned by the governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines – to publish its fare structure, which revealed that government taxes on flights originating in most countries are extremely high. So, the first point is that the cost of air travel within the Caribbean is high in part because government taxes are high. And, whereas governments might argue that they need the taxes to maintain and expand airports, the airlines will counter argue that they pay landing fees, which should be segregated and put into a fund for airport upkeep and improvements. LIAT, incidentally, is a huge contributor to the revenues of governments into whose countries they fly. In the case of some countries, LIAT is the biggest contributor of landing fees to government earnings. The cost of LIAT’s operations when compared with that of Caribbean Airways Ltd (CAL), the successor airline to BWIA and owned by the government of Trinidad and Tobago, is higher because of one very important reason. LIAT has to buy its fuel at commercial prices but the government of Trinidad and Tobago (an oil producing country) subsidies fuel to CAL -- not just the fuel it buys in Trinidad but fuel wherever bought for all its operations. LIAT (and incidentally REDjet) is suffering from an unlevel playing field in the context of the fuel subsidy that CAL alone enjoys. The Bahamian-operated airline Western Air has become CAL’s first casualty. The airline has announced that it is suspending flights to Jamaica due to what it says is “competition” from CAL. In 2008, the last year for which audited statements were laid before the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament, the fuel subsidy for CAL was US$36
million on consumption of 26 million gallons. Airline expert, John Gilmore says that “it is likely that current fuel consumption is now more than double as CAL's operations have increased”. That is a hefty price for the taxpayers of Trinidad and Tobago to be paying simply to maintain CAL’s flight operations. If this large subsidy were not being made to CAL, the money could have been spent on education, health and social welfare projects desperately needed in the country. What exactly Trinidad and Tobago gets from subsidising CAL, apart from being able to claim that it has a national airline with a limited regional role, is unclear. In any event, it appears that the travelling public in Trinidad and Tobago is more loyal to their pockets than they are to CAL. According to the chairman and CEO of REDjet, Ian Burns, the demand for bookings from July 28 when the airline starts flights into Trinidad is more than when they first launched on April 13. It seems, therefore, that not even the fuel subsidy will save CAL from competition over prices. In the wake of a successful lawsuit by REDjet in the courts of Trinidad and Tobago, the airline was given clearance to fly into Trinidad and then, separately, Jamaica gave permission. But, these permissions came only after the most amazing filibustering by both governments. Few persons believe that the refusals, denials, and demands for safety checks were anything more than measures to protect CAL from competition. In the case of Jamaica, the reluctance of the government to allow REDjet entry, while the deal for CAL to buy out Air Jamaica was not yet fully sealed, is understandable though not by any mean fair to REDjet. If the deal between CAL and Air Jamaica had fallen though, the Jamaica government would have found itself with a huge hole to fill in the arrangements under which the International Monetary Fund is providing the government with a stand-by facility. Remarkably, the chairman of CAL, George Nicholas, has now indicated that the airline will be lowering its fares. He is adamant that the airline is not doing so because of competition from REDjet. He says,”(The) efficiencies that we get now with joining with Air Jamaica, common fleeting, the use of one reservation system, pooling our intelligence
Turks and Caicos Sun Suite # 5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542/ (649) 241-1510 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson Web Designer: Patrina Moore-Pierre Graphics Editor: Joleen Grant Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Distribution Manger: Kelano Howell Advertising and Marketing ManagerPatrina Moore-Pierre The Turks and Caicos SUN is a subsidiary of The SUN Media Group Ltd. We are committed to excellence in journalism, educating and informing our readers, serving and satisfying our advertisers and assisting in the overall development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. and pooling our resources, so we have economy to scale that very few carriers in the region have." What is truly remarkable about Mr Nicholas’ statement is that he has identified efficiencies arising from the “joining with Air Jamaica” as the basis for dropping fares. This same notion of the nationallyowned Caribbean airlines “joining” a shared arrangement to reduce costs and decrease fares has been suggested time and again without an appropriate response. If CAL, Air Jamaica and LIAT had sat down to share out the routes within the Caribbean and into it from external locations, and to divide up some operational costs, the three airlines could have had a chance to serve the region’s people and its tourism better. Instead, what the Caribbean public saw was a display of selfish nationalism at the political level in Trinidad and Jamaica, crude boardroom politics, and a disregard for the Caribbean travelling public and tourism. As Ian Bertrand, a regional airline expert puts it: “Imagine CARICOM countries knew for years that the Multilateral Air Services Agreement was incompatible with the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (the CARICOM treaty) and did nothing. Imagine that despite recent political statements embracing open skies, the very recent bilateral discussions between Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados did nothing to change the closed sky structure of their Air Services Agreement”. What is even worse, at no time was St Vincent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves brought into the wounding discussions over permitting REDjet to fly -- and he is the person in the CARICOM quasicabinet with responsibility for overseeing air transportation. REDjet may have been given permission to fly to Trinidad and Jamaica, thereby adding to their Guyana route, but that is only a battle, a real war is yet to come unless good sense infects the thinking of CARICOM’s leadership and a sensible aviation policy is established, taking account of both commercial realities and public good. One of those realities may be an examination of the value of the REDjet model. Another would be the establishment of a CARICOM Aviation Authority to set common aviation rules throughout CARICOM, funded by CARICOM-wide aviation charges.
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Two bodies decompose at the Myrtle Rigby morgue A freak malfunction at the morgue in the old Myrtle Rigby Clinic caused two bodies to decompose. Reports reaching The SUN reveal that the body of an elderly woman from Blue Hills in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands was in such a bad state of decomposition that her features could not be recognised and she therefore had to be buried in a closed casket in a funeral on Wednesday afternoon. Informed sources told this newspaper that several family members were upset because they were unable to view their departed loved one, due to
circumstances that were absolutely beyond their control. Reports from sources close to the family suggest that there may even be some sort of legal action pending against the Turks and Caicos Islands Government because of the disappointment, agony, grief and distress which the family had to endure because of the malfunction of the morgue’s equipment which caused the decomposition of the body. It is understood that Bahamian relatives of the deceased even came to the Turks and Caicos Islands for the
funeral, but they were deeply saddened by the unexpected turn of events which led to them not being able to truly and fully pay last respects to the dearly departed. Investigations by The SUN also disclosed that another corpse of a man from Thailand was also affected by decomposition. Sources told this newspaper that the man dies suddenly, but there was no identification on him when his body was taken to the morgue. He was therefore classified as a “John Doe”, but after a certain time,
GeorGe Pratt charGed police in providenciales have charged George pratt, an employee of the Ministry of education, for inflicting grievous bodily harm in connection with a report made to the providenciales police on 18th november 2010 .The sUn understands that the report is allegedly related to a matter involving pratt’s step child. according to a police force press release issued by acting inspector calvin chase, pratt was later released on police Bail to appear before Magistrate clifton warner in the providenciales Magistrate’s court #2 on Tuesday 16th august 2011 to answer to that charge.
Two policemen hurt in squad car crash Two police officers sustained injuries and were hospitalized and released following an accident on Five Cays Road. Acting Inspector of Police Calvin Chase said that on Tuesday night 9th August 2011 about 9.25pm Police and Emergency response personnel responded to a two motor vehicle collision in Five Cays Providenciales involving a white Ford Explorer owned by Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police and a white Toyota car privately owned. “Both vehicles received extensive
damage. Three police officers and a male prisoner who were in the police vehicle received non-life threatening injuries, while the driver and passenger in the car received minor injuries. The cause of this motor vehicle collision is still under investigation,” Chase said. A few weeks ago, two police officers were hospitalized following a hit-and-run accident while they were jogging. They too have since been discharged and investigations are continuing into that matter.
aLPHeuS GarDIner Requires
one Labourer to work six days a week Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 231-0005
residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands, including his employers, were able to verify his identity. By then, his body had apparently reached the stage where it could not be embalmed and he had t sent back to his native country, also in a closed casket. The SUN understands that even after the fridges in the morgue were found to be faulty and malfunctioning, the back-up system of modified cargo containers which are normally used, also broke down and no parts could have been immediately located or sourced to rectify the situation.
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
Radar Operation put on hold By David Newlands Sun Reporter
In December of last year the ground was broken for the radar station. It was said then, that the station would be operational by February, or March at the latest. In May, it was confirmed that the radar was still not functioning, though Clara Gardiner, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Border Control and Labour said: “We are experiencing a few delays, but we are still making progress on the project, that is as much as I can say at this time. But it is on-going and we hope to finish the project soon”. Now in August, six months after initial predictions for completion, the station has still not reached completion.
The radar station, which is sited in Five Cays, Providenciales, is geared towards further protecting the borders of the TCI by spotting illegal activities off shore, including the transportation of illegal migrants, weapons and drugs. The station would be equipped to scan the shoreline at 180 degrees, and be turned off when it sweeps over land in order to prevent radiation exposure; once it reached the shore line it would reactivate. The radar, which was a topic of discussion since 2007 had only become a reality in December of last year, when contracts were signed to allow for its construction; at first, the project was on schedule, the land was purchased, the road was paved, and the complex was erected. However it appears to have hit an obstacle, which has hindered its
Position: Director of Guest Experiences Job Overview: A member of the Senior Leader Team. Responsible for the overall performance of the Personal Concierges (Butlers) staff and the operation of the Concierge Department; to include, but not limited to staffing, training, scheduling, ensuring high guest satisfaction. Reports to: The General Manager Minimum Qualifications: • Certification by a recognized Butler school • 6 - 10 years experience in Butler service • 5 years experience in the hospitality industry, preferably as Butler Manager • International hospitality experience • Read, write and speak English (2 or more additional languages desired) Essential Job Functions: • Ensuring that the staff of the Personal Concierge Department provides world-class and personal service to all guests. • Daily training through the Line-up process plus weekly/monthly training sessions with Personal Concierge and other staff members. Maintaining records of all training • Upholding the Grace Bay Resort’s Credo and culture • Co-ordinate and ensure smooth operations of all Guest Service areas • Build rapport with in-house guests • Utilize leadership skills, motivation techniques and experience in order to maximize employee productivity. • Interact with all guests to ensure their satisfaction, to gather personal preferences • Conduct himself/herself in a manner reflecting the position as a department head and a senior member of the Grace Bay Club management team • Update and maintain all Guest History Files. Interested persons can contact our Human Resource Department at telephone: (649) 339-5050
Clara Gardiner, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Border Control and Labour
progress. Due to the fact that parts for the radar were kept in storage for two years, they have become unfit for use. It is because of this, that the radar station needs government funding in order to purchase new parts and complete the construction of the facility. The need for replacement parts is not the only reason why the radar
station’s completion has been delayed; when a SUn reporter spoke with Fred Skovberg, the Canadian national who conceptualized the radar station, he remarked on the fact that the facility needed to be expanded. Skovberg stated that the radar station was originally intended to be attached to another government facility. This facility would have all of the amenities including staff quarters, to allow for staff to work at the radar station, since it would be a 24 hour operation; however this second facility was never constructed, leaving only a monitoring booth and the radar itself. This extension is a requirement in order for the site to operate within its optimal functionality. The extension and replacement parts both require funding from the government in order to be purchased and constructed in order to make the radar fully operational. When the Sun attempted to contact Gardiner, she could not be reached for comment. Without Gardiner’s statement, the government’s plans for funding and further progress of this vital operation are unknown.
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Fortis tCi’s seCond Wartsila engine ready For operation
Beryn Duncanson formally charged with indecently assaulting expatriate woman sought to impute Police in Providenciales improper motives, not have charged Beryn duncanson a local attorney only to this newspaper for indecent assault in by also to the virtual connection with a report complainant in the made to Providenciales criminal case. Police on 25th June 2011. The statement, This was confirmed by which has not yet been Media liaison officer denied by duncanson as acting inspector calvin being his, also attempted chase in a press release. to lay a foundation for a chases stated that political conspiracy short and hot-tempered theory. duncanson was later duncanson is the released on Police Bail to Managing director and appear in the Beryn duncanson sole shareholder of Providenciales Magistrate’s flamingo crossing ltd, a court #2 on Tuesday 16th community developer in the caribbean. august 2011 to answer to that charge. The sUn also understands that he is also principal of duncanson & co duncanson could also face other charges and a member of the Turks and caicos all Party constitution stemming from a statement which islands commission and, in recent times, he was appeared along with his name on the the legal advisor to the People’s websites of the Tci Journal and the Tci democratic Movement (PdM) at the Post. This newspaper could not constitutional talks that were held in independently verify that duncanson was london with henry Bellingham, Minister the author of the rambling release which for the overseas Territories.
The second of two Wartsila 20V32 engines was officially handed over to Fortis TCI Ltd last month after receiving the green light for commercial operation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This transfer of operating authority is customary for generating equipment where the manufacturer is satisfied that the equipment is ready to be used and is ready to be operated on a commercial basis. “Fortis TCI has chosen to make this investment in order to reduce diesel consumption on our generating system as these engines consume less fuel per unit of electricity than the existing fleet. Residents can continue to expect the most efficient and the least costly electricity as we continue to build on our ongoing strategic capital investment programme” stated Ernie Jackson, Vice President of Generation and Engineering. Ernie also added that, “These engines have the capacity to produce up to 8.7 MWs of electrical power from each engine and represent more than 50% of Fortis TCI’s peak load. Both engines are state of the art and signify not only a major step towards reducing diesel consumption, but will also reduce exhaust emissions and would have a lower environmental footprint.” Fortis TCI Ltd and Atlantic Equipment & Power Limited (AEP) became a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortis Inc located in Newfoundland Canada in August 2006. Fortis TCI Ltd and AEP serve approximately 9, 000 customers or 80% of electricity customers in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Fortis TCI Ltd is the sole provider of electricity in Providenciales, North Caicos and Middle Caicos. AEP is the sole provider of electricity in South Caicos. The utilities have a combined diesel-fired generating capacity of approximately 56.7 megawatts (MW).
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS
IT TEchNIcIAN
Requirements: • Minimum of 3 years experience as an IT Technician • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have experience working with Opera and Visual One, Mitel Phone System, Cisco CCTV System, Fiber Optic Music System (fiber optic), Micros, Data Works and Premier Spa • Must be able to respond quickly and effectively to diagnose and resolve hardware and software problems for all systems, and document tracks and reports on deficiencies, progress and follow-up • Must read, speak and write English fluently • Must be able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Providing routine maintenance of hardware, software and systems • Installing/configuring new computers/telephones and point of sales equipment. • Installing/maintaining/repairing CCTV System • Repairing/upgrading hardware and software. • Troubleshooting printers/scanners/copiers. • Maintaining inventory of equipment and supplies. • Maintaining server room(s) and ensuring proper security for such. • Completing system backups according to required schedule. • Providing infrastructure support: • Installing cabling • Researching, learning and evaluating new software and hardware • Documenting and maintaining record keeping for all systems Interested applicants should apply to the Regent Palms Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or email mdorsett@regentexperience.com no later than August 19, 2011.
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
Chief Financial Officer Caroline Gardner leaving Turks and Caicos Islands By Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Chief finanCial OffiCer Caroline Gardner is leaving the Turks and Caicos Islands. Gardiner, who was seconded to the TCI from the Department for International Development (DFID) for one year, will be leaving at the end of this month, sources said. Her male appointment already has been identified, but his name was not available up to press time. In a recent interview with the SUn, Gardner said it was “very clear” that TCIG will need to cut the size of the public service pay bill by 25 percent by 2013-14. She said: “Some of that will mean making sure that people aren’t paid more than they are entitled to, some of it will mean job cuts and changes in the way that people work. We’ve got a public service reform exercise underway to take that forward. We are committed to doing that fairly and to treating people who are affected by it fairly.”
Chief Financial Officer Caroline Gardner
Gardner noted that TCIG’s wage bill is about $80million each year and it tripled between 2002 and 2008. There are around 3000 workers in government. Asked if government is still having problems paying wages and salaries, Gardner said: That’s one of the things we’ve managed to get right.
PROVO WATER Post:
Accounting Clerk- Temporary Job Category: Finance and Administration Relevant Work Experience: 5 years minimum in equivalent position Education Level: Associates degree Salary: $2,500.00 per month Job Description: Provo Water Company Ltd is seeking a detail-oriented individual with a minimum of an Associate Degree in a business-related field with 5 years Accounting experience to fill the post of Accounting Clerk.The applicant should display a positive and proactive attitude, strong organizational skills, and possess excellent communication skills. Responsibilities (including but not limited to): • Enter monthly billing in the GL software system • Reconcile A/R to the general ledger & process adjustments • Generate and analyze aging receivables reports • Post all cash applications and payment queries • Perform account reconciliations • Prepare reports using Microsoft Excel and internal software system • Various Administrative Duties – Inventory Control, Purchases, Manage Vendors, Filing, etc. Skills and Experience Requirements • Knowledge of accounts receivable processes and strong reconciliation background • Knowledge of office administration and procedures • Experience and working knowledge of MS Office, particularly Excel • Familiarity with QuickBooks software is a plus • Strong written and verbal communication skills DEADLinE All applications (inclusive of cover letter, CV & copies of qualifications) must be submitted by 19th August 2011 to: Managing Director PO Box 39 Provo Water Company Limited Grace Bay Road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands provowater@tciway.tc OnLy APPLiCAnTS SELECTED fOR An inTERViEW WiLL bE nOTifiED
Now with the refinancing exercise that was completed in February, we can pay all of our bills as they are due on time which is a big step forward in restoring confidence in Turks and Caicos Islands as a place to do business, but we’ve got more to do to make sure we control our expenditure properly.” Asked for her assessment of the TCI economy, she said it is a poor state. “Economies around the world have suffered over the last three years with the global downturn and that’s particularly tough for small economies like the Turks and Caicos Islands which have been very, very reliant on construction and tourism. So we’ve taken a real hit. Construction is not going t come back in the short term because there’s already an over-supply of condos and resorts around the place that aren’t sold or aren’t being fully
rented. We all hope that both the upturn in the US and Canada, plus the things we’re doing will put the TCI back on a safer footing and turn the economy around sooner rather than later,”Gardner added. Gardner, the Deputy Auditor General for Audit Scotland, assumed her responsibilities on 20 September, 2010. As Chief Financial Officer she had responsibility for all financial decisions for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, under the authority of the Governor. Her mandate was to work to strengthen the Government's capacity and systems to manage its public finances and balance its budget within the next three years. Her appointment followed the announcement of a temporary package of financial support from the UK Government.
SaleS Clerk required J & D Office Supplies Mail resume to P.O. Box 54, Providenciales or Email: jdofficesupplies@tciway.tc Phone: 649-941-5367
ANNie GArDiNer SeekS
1 DomeStiC Worker Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 347-8805
VENDERLEAN TAYLOR SEEKS
1 Housekeeper
Must be hardworking and reliable Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 242-6354
MILESTONE TCI SEEKS
1 Carpenter Salary $8.00 per hour Contact 246-6237
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Cases of Dengue Fever reported in TCI Since the alert on Dengue Fever in the Bahamas, issued by the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MOHHS) on the 26th July, 2011, there have been two (2) confirmed cases of Dengue and one clinically suspected case of Dengue Fever here in the TCI. The cases are believed to have been imported as all the infected persons travelled recently (within the past week) to Dengue endemic locations. The infected persons are adult females and the key symptoms presented were fever and pain behind the eyes (retro-orbital pain). Two were treated and released with the advice of protecting themselves from mosquito bites, as best they could, by remaining indoors. The other case remains hospitalized and her symptoms are being managed with IV fluid hydration and monitoring of the relevant health indices. She has been responding well to the treatment. The Ministry of Health and its health care facilities have, in the meantime, instituted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Dengue guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control as well as the regional Caribbean Epidemiological Centre (CAREC) Surveillance protocols and guidelines. The Ministry’s Environmental Health and Public Health teams have taken and will continue to take the following priority precautionary
measures: - Conduct daily active surveillance in the homes of the Dengue suspected and confirmed cases; - Follow-up with all suspected and confirmed Dengue cases; - Conduct mosquito breeding surveillance of possible breeding grounds/sites around homes of confirmed/suspected cases; - Institute measures such as fogging and larvae ciding to disrupt mosquito breeding; - Ensure that the Public Health Team is informed of any suspected Dengue Fever cases to ensure patient education and follow-up upon discharge; - Submit serum sample/blood samples for confirmatory testing and follow-up to facilitate the complete process; - Follow-up with CAREC/PAHO for timely serum/blood results and consultation as necessary; - Circulate health education messages via all available mediums to increase public awareness about Dengue Fever and encourage the public to take protective actions; Dengue fever is a flu-like illness spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe, often fatal, complication of dengue fever which causes bleeding that may appear as tiny spots of blood on the skin (petechiae) and larger
patches of blood under the skin (ecchymoses). The patient becomes irritable, restless and sweaty. These symptoms may be followed by shocklike symptoms that may lead to death. Not all mosquitoes here in the TCI transmit Dengue; it is spread only by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. This mosquito transmits the disease by biting an infected person and then biting someone else. It usually starts suddenly with a high fever, rash, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and muscle and joint pain. The severity of the joint pain has given dengue the name "breakbone fever." Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common. A rash usually appears 3 to 4 days after the start of the fever. The illness can last up to 10 days, but complete recovery can take as long as a month. Older children and adults are usually sicker than young children. Most dengue infections result in relatively mild illness, but some can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever. There is no specific treatment for dengue. Persons with dengue fever should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They should be kept away from mosquitoes for the protection of others. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids. Some patients may need transfusions to control bleeding. The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MOHHS) is asking the public to take the following precautions to
“prevent the spread of Dengue fever and minimize its complications”: • Know the signs and symptoms of Dengue Fever (high fever, rash, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and muscle and joint pain) • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of Dengue Fever • Avoid mosquito bites when traveling to areas where Dengue occurs • Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing • Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (get rid of stagnant water as it quickly becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes; check gutters, cover drums/barrels; change water for potted plants every 2-3 days) • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks when outdoors during times that mosquitoes are biting • Avoid heavily populated residential areas • Stay in air-conditioned or screened areas when indoors • Use bed nets if sleeping areas are not screened or air-conditioned • Report your travel history to your doctor if you have symptoms of dengue • Ensure your windows and doors are closed tightly and be sure to fix screens on windows and doors to prevent indoor mosquito invasions and • Call Environmental Health Department to treat large bodies of stagnant water on or around your property.
WYMARA SEEKS
1 Housekeeper
Government Vacancy JOB TITLE:
INTERPRETER –
Mon – Sat Must be hardworking and reliable Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 946-5134
NATIONAL AIDS PROGRAMME SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Interpreter. The incumbent in this position must possess the ability to translate fluently and simultaneously French/Creole and Spanish into the English Language within the National AIDS Programme, as well as able to accurately translate documents in a timely manner. He/She must have the ability to concentrate and follow verbal instructions as well as assist with clerical and administrative tasks or any other related duties as may be required.
Elegant Beauty Salon SEEKS
1 Hairstylist 1 Babysitter
Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 241-4404
D’YONCE’S
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The position requires an individual who has studied as well as spoken the English language for a minimum of six (6) years. Applicant must be eighteen (18) years or older, preferably with a Turks and Caicos Islands High School Graduate Diploma. REMUNERATION PACKAGE SALARY: $14,148.00 - $16,740.00 per annum For more information on the Job description Please contact the Office of the Public Service Management Telephone 649-946-2801, Facsimile: 649-946-1582 Extension: 10318, E-mail: recruitment@gov.tc. All resumes must contain contact information as well as be supplemented by two letters of reference and a police certificate. It should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary/ Office of the Public Service Management, Church Folly, Grand Turk. APPLICATION DEADLINE: 26th August 2011 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED
DONAVON FRANCIS SEEKS
1 BARBER
To work Mon-Sat 9am – 5pm Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 243-3291
BEAUTY SALON SEEKS
2 Helpers $5.00 per hour
1 Cosmetologist $7.00 per hour Contact 242-8509
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
Colin Heartwell appointed to new Chief Executive Officer to the National Insurance Board M r C olin H eartwell has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer for the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board. Mr Heartwell will begin his three year contract at the end of August. Mr. Heartwell is a senior executive with two decades of business management experience in various areas of economic development. He has been a Director General of Western Economic Diversification Canada, overseeing an investment portfolio of more than $350 million, the inaugural CEO for TCInvest, attracting significant foreign direct investment to the country, and the
CEO of the Montserrat Development Corporation as it developed its $450 million new town project. Mr Heartwell has underlined his commitment to share his expertise, support and enable the development of local talent. The Governor has stipulated that the training and development of NIB staff should be a top priority for Mr Heartwell over the next three years. Commenting on Mr Heartwell’s appointment, Governor Gordon Wetherell said: “I am very pleased that it has been possible to recruit someone of Mr Heartwell’s calibre to lead the management team of the
National Insurance Board. This is a role that comes with very significant responsibilities to ensure the prudent and efficient management and growth of the TCI’s National Insurance Board’s fund. It is in the interests of all TCI Islanders that the CEO of the NIB should be someone with a particularly strong investment background and broad experience of leadership in senior executive positions.” Mr Ervine Quelch, Chairman of the NIB said: “I have worked with Mr. Heartwell during my Chairmanship of the Board of Directors of TCInvest. I enjoyed
that working relationship and have the greatest of respect for his work ethic. I look forward to welcoming and working with Mr. Heartwell again.” A press release from Government said the vacancy notice for the post of Director of the NIB was advertised in April in both local and regional press. It was stated that all eligible TCI Islanders were able to apply for this post and that 31 candidates applied. Only two had addresses in the TCI, and two were from unknown locations (their CV’s did not detail their addresses).
UNITED BUILDERS SEEKS
1 Mason
Salary $10.00 per hour 6 days per week Contact 244-3369
Page 13
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
New advisors Clayton Thomas and Martin Stanley sworn in Martin Stanley and Clayton Thomas were sworn in as new members of the Advisory Council at Thursday’s meeting of the Council at the NJS Francis building, Grand Turk. Mr. Stanley joins the Council as an ex-officio member in his position of Chief Executive Officer, replacing Mark Capes who has taken up the post of Governor of St. Helena. Mr. Thomas brings the number of Councilors back to where it was before the recent departure. In a press release, Governor Gordon Wetherell said he was glad to announce that Clayton Thomas has accepted his invitation to join the Advisory Council. “With his experience in the key hospitality sector and his wide range of skills and interests, I am sure he will make a valuable contribution to the Council’s deliberations,” Wetherell said. Thomas went to Pierson High School, South Caicos Turks and Caicos Islands and then attained
L-R: Clayton Thomas, H.E. Governor Gordon Wetherell and Martin Stanley
an Honors Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management - Freeport Bahamas. He has a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration – Florida State and a Certificate in Conference Centers Management, Functions, and Operations - Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. From November 2008 to Present he has been the General Manager of Le Vele Hotel Grace Bay. Prior to that, from October 2006 to November 2008, he was Assistant General Manager at Turks and Caicos
TURKS AND CAICOS TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONS INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR:
TelecommunicaTion engineer CORE FUNCTION – Under the general direction of the Director of Technology – provide support to the Telecommunications Commission in technical regulation of the telecommunications sector. Position Overview A person that is well-rounded in, radio and communications systems. Have experience developing, implementing and maintaining a variety of communications networks, to National and International standards. The candidate must be familiar with the TCI Telecommunications Ordinances, ITU-R, and other regional and international telecommunications body’s recommendations. Excellent oral and writing skills are essential, and the individual must be able to work in teams and train others. Essential Job Functions • Provide Support to the Director of Technology • Ensure that all communicating entities are radiating on their prescribed frequencies in accordance with the TCI Telecommunication Commission Regulations. • Responsible for testing and verification, approval of installers, Marking, and Registering of apparatus, equipment and systems
Sporting Club at Ambergris Cay and from May 2004 to August 2006 - Hotel Manager at Parrot Cay and Shambhala Resort. From December 2003 – May 2004 – he was Communication / IT Manager at Parrot Cay and Shambhala Resort and from December 2001 - December 2002 – Front Office Assistant at Hotel Metropolitan - London England. Thomas is a member of the Tourism Working Group, Bethany Baptist Church, Provo Chamber of Commerce and the Hotel & Tourism Association. The 50-year-old is married with six children.
• Perform Quality of Service measurement on the Telco’s and other Radio Systems. • Supervise and train subordinates. Requirements • B. Sc in Engineering, Telecommunications, or Networking degree. • Candidate shall be a mature, qualified engineer with a minimum of 3 years telecommunications and radio communication experience. • Highly competent, self motivated, self-managed. • Able to carry out the responsibilities in the administration & management of a statutory body. • Proficient in the use of spectrum analyzers, frequency counters, network analyzers, Power Meters and other testing equipment. • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office software, including Access Database • Knowledge of the information communication technology industry would be an asset. • Applicants must not have a direct or indirect involvement in any local communications company. Provisional Terms of Employment • Period of Service: A minimum of two years with a six month probationary period. • Salary: Base on qualification and experience. • Hours: Shall be 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday with one hour for lunch. Please summit resume by August 19th, 2011 to TCI Telecommunications Board, Business Solutions Building, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Telephone: 946-1900, Fax: 946-1119 and Email: infor@tcitelecommission.tc.
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Section 132 and the LeaderShip Vacuum by the torch
"A man will be imprisoned in a room with a door that's unlocked and opens inwards; as long as it does not occur to him to pull rather than push." Ludwig Wittgenstein
Much has been made by the TCI political gangs and their henchmen on the special interest websites and elsewhere about the potential electoral effects of section 132 of the new impending TCI Constitution, which in pertinent part reads: “132 (2) An Ordinance shall prescribe the conditions under which a person may be granted the status of Turks and Caicos Islander, and ... those conditions shall include, but need not be limited to, the conditions set out in subsection (3). (3) The conditions referred to in subsection (2) are that— (a)an applicant is a British overseas territories citizen by virtue of a connection with the Islands or a British citizen who either— (i)has held a permanent residence certificate for a period of at least five years; or (ii)has been legally resident in the Islands for a period of at least ten years...” The claimed concern of the gangs is that this new defined path to TCIslander status proscribed by section 132 will result in such a flood of naturalized foreigners that native-born TCIslanders will be outnumbered in future TCI elections. In a number of sensationalized articles by the gangs and their henchmen it is not disclosed to readers that what they describe just as “foreigners” or “foreign nationals” is strictly limited by section 132 to Brit citizens and those Brit OT citizens who have a connection specifically to the TCI. That would appear to be a purposeful dishonest exclusion of an obviously germane fact. Further, the potential benefits to the TCI of a broader based and more experienced electorate are not mentioned at all. More mature voters will not be attracted by anything the gangs have to offer, and the gangs know that. Accordingly, potential benefits to the TCI as a whole are completely ignored by the gangs. Instead of presenting factual balanced information, the gangs have claimed outrage at the alleged loss of control by native-born TCIslanders over their democratic future. Is that a realistic claim based upon an un-biased reading of section 132? Before he read section 132, based upon the level of shock, outrage and fear-mongering from the gangs and their henchmen, The Torch had begun to think that somehow the imminent end of TCIslander self determination had been engineered by the cunning Brits. The Brits are certainly cunning enough to attempt such a feat. They are also sufficiently embarrassed by their own “deer in the headlights” constitutional failures to seek to prevent a recurrence by disabling TCI self-determination. Mostly though, the Brit High Command appears sufficiently punitive towards the political gangs, whom they must recognize by now as the root of all corruption in the TCI, to seek their demise in such an engineered manner. However, this constitutional section, in the cold light of day, is very far from accomplishing anything like that. If the cunning Brits have engineered the end of self-determination in the TCI, it is not by section 132, not apparently even incrementally. What section 132 means in essence is that British citizens, whose own citizenship TCIslanders recently obtained (providing immediate unconditional access to live, work and study throughout Europe), who have already passed muster under the TCI Immigration Ordinance for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the path chosen, MAY apply for TCIslander status and MAY be granted it. Then they MAY vote. Other conditions for TCIslander status, which conditions are presently unknown and which will no doubt involve money and health, will certainly eventually apply to the process. However, they will necessarily make the opportunity for British citizens to become TCIslanders smaller, not larger. There is no legislative body in the world, whether Brit or TCIslander, that will not seek to expand its own power in some manner when given the constitutional opportunity to do so. As deduced elsewhere, it seems obvious that the Brits will draft and enact the secondary ordinance themselves. They will not trust a TCI political gang legislature to do so. Can you blame them? The gangs want a subjective anti-Rule of Law personal or familycontrol over immigration and naturalization. The devil will be in the details of that ordinance, but as mentioned above, the opportunity for Brit
citizens (and no one else) to join the TCI electoral rolls cannot be larger than stated in the Constitution. So we already know the worst. How bad is section 132 for TCIslander self-determination? That depends to a large extent upon how many Brits will seek to take advantage of section 132 over time. Well, how many Brits are here now? That number plus however many MORE are attracted over time because of the new opportunity afforded by section 132 will be the answer. In typical TCI fashion, we don't know how many Brit citizens are here now. So we have to guess to get any sense of a frame of reference. The Torch's wild guess is that if we exclude the number of Brit citizens who have already acquired TCIslander status under prior law and if we also exclude those Brit citizens who are here on annual or similarly renewable employment contracts/work permits and have no intent to stay beyond some finite relatively short duration and who won't form such intent as a consequence of section 132, there are probably no more than 200-300 (and your guess is certainly as good as The Torch's) Brit citizens here in either permanent or semi-permanent professional, investment or retirement mode. Even as The Torch thinks about that first guess, it seems wildly high, but let's push on. That's perhaps 200-300 who have accumulated here across 20-30 years under relatively friendly precommitment conditions. Of course, once those investor/retirees made their irreversible financial commitments, the gangs and their henchmen targeted them for shakedown and conditions became far less friendly. That won't change and may even intensify when the gangs regain power. The gangs will be looking for shakedown money as soon as the Brits turn their heads. But The Torch's point here is that as a result of Brit economic interference, not to mention renewed gang shakedowns, the TCI will not look as attractive to Brit citizens (or anyone else) as a retirement/investment destination going forward as it did during the last 20 years. Given that, how many EXTRA Brits across the next 20-30 years of which we have some foresight will be attracted by section 132 status, while the existing 200-300 or so die off or go home at some constant rate? Well, The Torch doesn't know, of course, and neither do you, but he thinks you get the idea of the likely number, even if you include 100% of the existing 200-300, which is unlikely. Even if the current number of Brit citizens is doubled or even tripled over the next 20 years, we are still not talking about enough EXTRA people to swing an election during the lifetimes of the grandchildren of anyone alive now. In fact, without some other currently unknown factors coming into play, section 132 will essentially NEVER have the effect of altering a TCI election. Further, an EXTRA 200 or 400 Brit citizens, who by definition will be affluent, will be prime positive contributors to our shared economy. Heck, why didn't the Brits open up section 132 to Americans and Canadians as well? Furthermore, if there are no independent candidates to challenge the gangs in future TCI elections, because neither TCI political gang will have any distinctive cogent electoral platform to offer, any of those 200-400 EXTRA Brit citizen voters who are even remotely interested in voting for some angry, mumbling, malevolent, bigoted, low-quality gang thug candidate are going to break statistically about 50-50 between the two gangs anyway. So The Torch concludes that the actual long-term result of section 132 is likely to be small and a statistical wash, not what the gangs are demagoguing. If that conclusion is accurate, why are the gangs protesting so much about section 132? Perhaps it is just because they are looking for SOME traction against the arrogant Brit High Command. The Torch certainly sympathizes with that purpose but wishes the gangs were smart enough to seek traction on issues that actually have substance and on which they could possibly prevail. Section 132 is a loser for the gangs and the fact they are pursuing it so vociferously is another indication to free-thinking TCIslanders of the quality of leadership being provided by the gangs. The Torch suggests that the gangs' claim of impending electoral disaster for TCIslanders is a political subterfuge. The gangs' real concern is a loss of control by the gangs over THEIR future. The gangs can't control voters whose parents and grandparents they didn't control. For corroboration of The Torch's above suggestion, consider why the gangs are jumping up and down about the worst-case, imagined virtually
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
impossible results of section 132 when they have already engineered those very same electoral conditions themselves? The Torch is reliably advised by two TCIslander friends who are in a position to know these things that as of at least the last general election, there were enough Haitian-origin TCIslander voters that if organized (they were not) and if targeted on key issues by any candidate (they were not), they could easily as a voting bloc outnumber and out-vote the native-born TCIslander voting bloc. That hasn't happened simply because no polarizing issue has yet presented itself to unify the Haitian voting bloc against the TCIslander bloc. Voters of Haitian origin can already do that about which the gangs are jumping up and down and pointing fingers at the Brits. But the Brits didn't cause the existing potential problem. Both of the gangs did! The difference between the gangs' imagined section 132 Brit-naturalization problem and the gangs' own actual Haitian-naturalization problem is that the gangs controlled and profited from only one of them, the one they created. From a broader perspective, The Torch suggests that the above example is a pretty strong illustration of why the TCI political gangs have never taken up and pursued issues and policies that have substantial intrinsic value and potential co-equal benefit to all individual TCIslanders across the board, regardless of gang-affiliation, family name, island or whatever other form of bigotry is employed to treat people differently. The gangs have no ideological platform or political plan for the future of theTCI beyond buying votes with promises of future “empowerment,” both the promise of which as well as the alleged “empowerment” itself actually make the individual TCIslander recipient weaker and more dependent upon the gangs! You can't empower a person by giving her things you've taken from other people, no matter how nobly the taking and the giving are described by you. The gangs cannot pursue issues or policies that would tend to provide a social framework in which TCISlanders enjoy equality of opportunity and then advance and prosper at different rates in proportion to their individual talent, education, strength of character, personal initiative, experience and risk-taking. When individuals empower themselves (the only real and permanent empowerment), there is nothing owed. "When we lose the right to be different, we lose the right to be free." - Charles Evans Hughes When obviously neither gang can compete and stay in power on the basis of the quality of their ideas, all they can do to stay in power is to buy votes, either with cash up front or with promises of future alleged empowerment. How can the gangs buy the votes of people who have empowered themselves, don't need their cash and owe the gangs nothing? Each gang benefits only from the inequality of opportunity of TCIslanders. The gangs must pick the winners and losers amongst TCIslanders in order to prosper themselves. This is why you will never see the TCI political gangs: (1) engage the Brits in specific discussion about how to grow the economy now; (2) engage the Brits in how to avoid future damage to our small fragile island economy now by the mere mention of big Euro welfare state concepts; (3) prompt the Brits to disclose all germane facts about TCIG's budget so that the business community can establish a baseline from which to measure; (4) insist that the Brits investigate fully and independently the negotiation and implementation of the monopoly contracts of Fortis, Provo Stevedoring, the National Health Rationing System and the hospital construction outfit; (5) support an Executive Residency program to attract wealthy economy-pumping residents; (6) demand of the Brits American-style inalienable human rights limited only by the co-equal rights of others and not by any subjective “public good” exclusion; and (7) propose innovative primary, secondary and post-secondary educational partnerships such as that between the Khan Academy and the Los Altos, California school district and others. (The Torch note to educators – go to http://khanacademy.org and be prepared to have your brains expanded.) None of these policies lead to the gangs picking the winners and losers amongst you. TCIslanders, you have been imprisoned in a room with an inward opening door. Voting for the same political thugs for whom your parents and grandparents voted is akin to pushing. Looking around for and encouraging independent free-thinking candidates who will not favor one individual or group over another is akin to pulling. You've been pushing for so long that only outsiders see your plight. Has it ever occurred to you to pull?
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Registration for Financial Services Sales Tax, Insurance Premiums Sales Tax and Water Consumption Sales Tax The 2011-2012 Budget statement made reference to a number of revenue measures that were presented to increase revenues and support the Turks and Caicos Government’s effort to close the budget deficit, which is a key milestone towards the return to an elected government. Legislation in support of these new revenue measures has been approved by the Advisory Council and will be presented to the Consultative forum shortly. In order to properly administer the new measures it is necessary that all entities that are responsible for charging, collecting and remitting the associated taxes be registered to do so with the Revenue Control Unit within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. A brief description of the new measures is outlined below as well as the nature of the establishments who should be responsible for registering for each revenue measure.
Water Consumption Sales Tax (WCST) The Water Consumption Sales Tax is a tax on the consumption of water in the TCI. The tax will apply to all commercial customers (including those commercial customers who selfsupply via in-house water treatment facilities) and those residential customers who consume more than 3000 gallons of water per month. Only those entities that provide water (such as Provo Water, Leeward Water Services, Turks and Caicos Water Services, Engineering & Maintenance Services) or extract water for selfsupply (some large resorts and other self-suppliers) are required to register. Insurance Premiums Sales Tax (IPST) The Insurance Premiums Sales Tax is a tax on all insurance premiums other than the premiums on life and medical insurance. The tax will be charged, collected and remitted to the TCIG by the insurance providers or
JOB VACANCY NOTICE
COMPLIANCE OFFICER
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS INTEGRITY COMMISSION Applications are invited from suitably qualified individuals for a two year contract as Compliance Officer for the Integrity Commission in the British Overseas Territory of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). Background The Integrity Commission was inaugurated on May 12th 2010, under the Chairmanship of Sir David Simmons, a former Chief Justice of Barbados It is founded on robust legislation under which the Commission will play a leading role in ensuring the integrity of public institutions. An executive arm for the Commission is now being developed. An interim Director and a Secretary have been appointed; basic systems and procedures are in place; and some 150 declarations from people in public life have been collected and are being appraised. Job purpose The Compliance Officer will play a lead role in establishing the compliance, corruption prevention and transparency functions of the Integrity Commission. He/she will play a lead role in receiving and reviewing declarations of income and assets of people in public life, ensuring compliance or, in cases of non-compliance, referring for investigation. He/she will also be responsible for the examination of practices and procedures of government departments to ensure transparency and to eliminate opportunities for corruption. This would include the review of relevant legislation and advancing recommendations for amendment where necessary. He/she will work to ensure that the Integrity Commission is regarded as a valued and respected institution. Key responsibilities The appointee will be responsible for all activities relating to declarations and for managing/conducting reviews of public bodies for the purposes of both uncovering and reducing the risk of corruption. Primary amongst his/her responsibilities will be to: • manage the intake and secure storage of declarations (both hard copy and electronic format); • provide oversight of /undertake reviews of declarations for compliance, ensuring completeness, accuracy, consistency and validity of information for purposes of issuance of Compliance Certificates; • manage the execution of full audits on declarations to determine if there is evidence of possible corruption, falsehoods or fraudulent representations; • examine the practices and procedures of public bodies in order to facilitate the discovery of corrupt practices; • assist public bodies in developing robust policy and strategy to fight corruption and install integrity in their operations, including in the setting of ethics and compliance standards; • instruct, advise and assist the management of public bodies to put in place changes in practices or procedures necessary to reduce the occurrence of corrupt acts;
brokers. However the customer will pay the tax. All insurance providers and brokers within the TCI should be registered to charge, collect and remit the tax. Financial Services Sales Tax Bill (FSST) The Financial Services Sales Tax is a tax on service fees charged by financial institutions including banks, trust companies, corporate management companies, money transfer companies, mutual funds, credit associations etc. The tax will be charged, collected and remitted to the TCGI by the financial institutions. Registration In order to register for the administration of these revenue measures it will be necessary to complete the appropriate registration form. The registration forms can be downloaded from the TCIG’s web site “Current Issues” at (WWW.GOV.TC) or picked up at the nearest Revenue Control Unit. • take lessons learned from reviews to develop preventative measures, including policies and strategies aimed at strengthening the Integrity Commission’s ethical standards and anti-corruption efforts. Person Specifications Ideally, the appointee will have: • a minimum of twelve years experience in auditing and compliance reviews, including at least 2 years at a senior managerial level; • a good Bachelors degree or equivalent in Accounting, Auditing or similar. A Certified Fraud Examiner’s designation or similar would be desirable; • overseas work experience (ideally in the Overseas Territories), experience of working closely with other cultures and/or experience working with public services in small states • a strong track record of achievement in compliance and related work. Other desirable skills and qualities include: • excellent understanding of financial instruments and transactions including banking instruments, investment vehicles and instruments, cash flows, corporate structures, partnership arrangements, and similar; • good knowledge of investigative strategies, principles and methods; • ability and experience in conducting interviews, eliciting relevant information and dealing with a wide range of stakeholders; • good analytic and evaluation skills to identify procedural or compliance weaknesses, and strong problem solving ability; • excellent oral and writing communication and presentation skills, and interpersonal skills; • ability to manage and review large volumes of data, as well as experience and skill in reviewing documentation to identify relevant evidence; • excellent IT competence, particularly in the use of spreadsheets, and the ability to drill down into computerised data to discover hidden information; • the ability to work well in a team, as well as being able to work independently and under pressure; • possession of high standards of integrity. Remuneration Salary is negotiable and is commensurate with qualification and experience. Application procedure To obtain further details please contact Mrs. Wanda Ariza, Secretary to the Integrity Commission, tel: 946 2801 ext 20252, fax 946 1355, e-mail integrity.commission1@gmail.com Applicants are requested to submit their CV together with an accompanying letter demonstrating why they would wish to work with the Commission and what particular attributes they would bring to its work. Applications must be returned to the Secretary either by email, fax, or mail. Direct mail should be addressed to Mrs. Wanda Ariza, Secretary, The Integrity Commission, Waterloo Plaza Complex, Unit 16, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands. Certified copies of qualifications as well as the names and letters of two referees must be submitted with your application. The deadline for applications is 31st August 2011, with the view to commencement of work as early as possible but ideally no later than mid October. Please note that only applicants selected for interview will be notified.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Interhealth Canada tCI
ChIef of ClInICal ServICeS Applications are invited for the post of Chief of Clinical Services at the Turks & Caicos Islands Hospital, British West Indies: The position becomes vacant at the end of September 2011. The Post. The post holder will be accountable to the Chief Executive for the provision of services on both sites within nursing, midwifery, imaging, physiotherapy services, dialysis, clinical nutrition and infection control. The primary base will be on Providenciales but some travel to Grand Turk will be required as will occasional overnight stays. The Post Holder The successful candidate will be a professional from within one of the services directed with a professional level nurse possibly having an advantage. The candidate must have: 1. Managed a similar range of services in an acute general or specialist hospital in the recent past, preferably with a Board level responsibility. 2. Worked within a successful commercial, for profit environment, providing healthcare to a client that is either a government or a government agency / body 3. Been budget responsible / accountable within such projects 4. Considerable experience of working with others in program planning and development, preferably at an international level. 5. A business management qualification at degree level would be a distinct advantage. Salary circa U$70,000 dependant on qualifications and experience Closing date as 26th August Applications with an up to date CV to include contact details are to be sent to pnicholson@interhealthcanada.tc Although the post is at the Turks & Caicos Islands Hospital, the post holder must be prepared, when requested, to provide input (which is within his / her qualification / expertise / experience) into other corporate projects elsewhere in the world.
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
VACANCIES GENERAL MANAGER: Veranda Resorts and Residence Requirements: At least two years of direct related experience as a Resort/General Manager for a 5 Star luxury property. Financial Degree, MBA and Hospitality degree desirable. Highly experienced in owner/management relationships Strong Rooms or Food & Beverage background (2EAM position desirable in 5 star property). International experience and multi-lingual to assist our international clientele would be an asset. Second language considered a definite asset. Energetic, positive visionary leader, dedicated to motivating and developing team members. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualifications and experience
Chef de Cuisine
To control the day to day running of the kitchen team and assist the F & B Director in achieving and exceeding company standards.’ Job Requirements: Minimum of 5 years experience as Executive Chef in a 5 Star Hotel Operation. Extensive knowledge of International Cuisine Strong managerial and organizational skills. Financial skills and strong knowledge of Food & Labour cost and budgeting. Training in Hygiene and HASAP Standards. Able to lead and motivate team Interested persons can contact our Human Resource Department at telephone: (649) 339-5050
VACANCY FOR
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CLERK PROVIDENCIALES
The Turks & Caicos Islands National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Accounts Payable Clerk. PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF JOB The position holder will be required to: • Process Administrative and Claims payments for vendors • Reconcile Payables Accounts on a monthly basis • Settle disputes with vendors, and maintaining the accuracy of their statements • Filing of all documents within the Accounts Department • Other administrative duties as required Minimum Qualification & Experience Required • An Associate’s Degree in Accountancy or equivalent qualification plus two (2) years experience in Accounting/Finance. Minimum Technical Skills • Must be able to use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point etc) • Excellent team player with team building skills • Excellent writer and oral communication skills • Ability to deliver to strict deadlines and to work under pressure Salary Salary will be reflective of qualification and experience within the range $26,760 - $30,000. Deadline for submission: August 26, 2011 All applicants should be addressed to: Zaneta Burton Chief Executive Officer National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: info@tcinhip.tc Ph: 941-8861
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
THE TRIUMVIRATE LEAVES US DEVASTATED, DESTROYED, NOT DIVIDED By Royal S. Robinson MBE
hand cannot throw or catch the rope, the ship will break itself The reign of terror by the against the dock. triumvirate is coming to a So you can imagine what screeching halt! will happen if the engineer is I knew for sure that they would seeing this type of engine for have to leave us eventually, but not the first time and is being asked in such quick succession. The to go to sea. Most of these singular object of these guys was to persons are operating the way destroy us and then leave us for that they are, because they dead! They have not been able to have not been effectively achieve that particular objective, but challenged. Some of us took Lord knows they tried. the view, that since they came In spite of what may have in with all of the “so called” happened to shift our eyes from the expertise, they were being prize, it could never be said that the allowed to get on with the Royal S. Robinson MBE building blocks were not being put work. However, we can see from in place to ensure that we became a Nation that was the greater part of their work, that they are only very self-sufficient! bluffing their way through at our expense. We have No nation can be by itself independently to remember that when they have created their mess, sufficient, but it surely could hold its own in this it is us who will be left behind with the bill for the global village of inter-dependence. What these clean-up. persons have been doing was trying to place the Now what they have really been engaged in, is a wedge of division among us and keep us from total propaganda exercise to poison the minds of our keeping our eyes on the prize. We have to be ever people against ourselves. For the first few months, mindful of the devil with the silver tongue whose they were succeeding, but the people are now seeing objective is to divide and conquer; but as some things for what they really are. The Emperor is naked would often say, “the devil is a liar”! because he has no clothes on and what he was What must now be mystifying to all and sundry, feeding us was “smoke and mirrors”. Pure and is that the very things that this Interim simple. As Glenn Clarke likes to say, “We done peep Administration has been accusing our local that hole card”! politicians of, they have been doing “in spades”! Now more than ever you have to put up or shut Who uses more armed security now than up! The honeymoon that you enjoyed is over! The Gordon and Mark? Who lives, wines and dines at people have come to realize that you mean them no the finest establishments that this country offers, good. The time for you continually fooling us is over. more than them? This is the classic case of it is bad You have raised our debt to GDP ratio to nearly for Turks and Caicos Islanders, but should be readily 95%. When you took over it was just above 24%! available to the triumvirate and their cohorts. You shrank the economy, and all that you are doing More and more each day, the people of this is piling taxes on us daily. Instead of trying to create country are waking up and smelling the real coffee jobs, all of your efforts have been geared to reducing and not the imitation. Nobody is falling for the jobs. “banana in the tail pipe” trick anymore. In the few On the transparency issue, you record has been days that you have remaining among us, please do appalling. I will point to two glaring examples. The something that you can say was really was truly first one deals with the Shore Club. Don’t get me worthy of your hire. Up to now, there has not been wrong, I for one, have been trying my best all along a positive impact on our country since you have when I was Minister of Finance, to get the project taken over. Our economy that showed signs of life started. And even after, I was advocating that the and was in need of a little revival, is now laid off and waiting for the undertaker to come and take over the body. We must all have faith, because all is not lost! Lest we forget, they name “come here” and “leave here”, while we name “born here” and “stay here”. We have to hit the reset button and start the process again with renewed vigor. They are looking for us to crumble under the stress and strain that they are putting us through. The petty squabbling among us is no more than that which symbolizes the dog watching his reflection in the water, let’s go of the bone and tries to get the shadow. These guys are taking us too much for granted because we have in recent times allowed them to take our kindness for weakness. We have to get up off our backsides and show them a thing or two. They know full well that the policies that they are enacting are counter-productive because they have been told so. But most of them come here with the attitude that they know it all, but they don’t know “jack”! From the display of their actions, they think that they can turn the ship around without the full aid and support of the crew. No matter how qualified the captain might be, if the lowly deck
LOCAL NEWS Interim Administration gets off the dime and let it proceed. So this is coming from a different angle. Here you have three “Belongers” who were at that time involved in the project; two were born “Belongers”, while the other was granted that right. A legal settlement was made to the benefit of the Stan Hartling the person granted “Belongership”, while Richardson Arthur and Clyde Robinson (and his wife) are still being vigorously pursued in the Courts. They are being hounded for the deal that they cut with respect to the land on which the project is being built, but the project is allowed to go on nonetheless. Then, to add insult to injury, they say that what was agreed to in the interest of the people of this country cannot be shared with the people of this country. What a load of hog wash! Prize and Stevie Wonder can see through that one. The second one deals with the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner. We are paying over two thousand dollars in monthly rent for the space, but the sign on the door says something else completely. The office is located in Clive Stanbrook’s complex. What’s more, is that the Governor has promoted the office holder to be one of his right hand persons. So go figure! So the triumvirate is leaving us in more mess than what they met. Gordon is going into retirement, probably in his birth place of Ethiopia, while Mark is going to St. Helena. At first, I thought that he would have been sent to the Falkland Islands to count sheep as his punishment for the atrocity reeked on us, particularly the Civil Service, when it was made clear to his handlers the double life he led while here (according to UK news reports). But then I thought some more and saw the historical parallel! After Napoleon lost the Battle of Waterloo to Wellington, the English banished him to St. Helena where he eventually died, so perhaps that is a more fitting place for Mark. Fare thee well! Caroline is on her way out as well, but I do not know on what steed she will ride! This should give the new Governor a better platform and a new team to get better done for Turks and Caicos Islanders! Remember among other things, he was a spy and comes with good financial credentials! Royal Robinson is a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health under the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
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LOCAL NEWS
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands:
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
Prison Officer gets Long Service Award
1. Parcel 60003/5, North West and North Central, Providenciales. Comprising of a one storey residential development, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room. Registered Proprietor: Barbara Lynn Harris 2. Parcel 60602/123, Norway Five Cays, Providenciales. Comprising of a two storey residential development, providing two, one bedroom apartments on the ground floor and one, two bedroom apartment on the upper floor, ground floor deck and upper floor balcony. . Registered Proprietor: Shirlen Grovernor Hamilton. 3. Parcel 6113/147, Long Bay Hills, Providenciales comprising 0.51 acres of an undeveloped inland lot, well elevated and limited ocean views of the southern shores of Providenciales. Registered Proprietor: Darnell Laverne Penn. 4. Parcel 60503/152, Blue Hills and Stamers Run, Providenciales. Comprising of a single residential development providing bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living and dining area. Registered Proprietor: Kirkley George Rigby 5. Parcel 10203/19, North West Suburbs, Grand Turk. Comprising of a detached one storey residential development providing bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living and dining area. Registered Proprietor: Godfrey Dinsdale Williams. 6. Parcel 60703/164 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill Providenciales, comprising of a three storey detached main house incorporating four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, living area, dining area, office, kitchen, laundry, recreation room, 2nd living area, master bedroom lounge, garage, pool and terrace areas. In addition guest house contains a one bedroom guest room and maid quarter. Registered Proprietor: Thomas Chalmers Atkinson Misick and Joyanna Roselee Misick 7. Parcel 60609/23 Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, three bedroom, two bathrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room, and terrace areas. Registered Proprietor: Patseylee Corina Gray 8. Parcel 60002/209 North West & North Central Providenciales, comprising of a one storey residential development, two bedrooms, one bathroom, living room, kitchen and dining room. Registered Proprietor: Tamara Erica Williams 9. Parcel 60804/49 The Bight & Thomas Stubbs Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, living room, kitchen, dining room and laundry room. Registered Proprietor: John Alexander Williams 10. Parcel 60900/195 Leeward Going Through Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, two bedroom, one bathroom, living room and kitchen. Registered Proprietor: Dexter Alexander Ingham 11. Parcel 60610/184 Norway and Five Cays Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, two bed rooms, open plan living room, dining room and kitchen. Alongside, there is a new two storey structure which provides a small one bedroom unit on each level. Registered Proprietor: Earl Nathan Tucker 12. Parcel 60003/114 North West & North Central Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, three bedroom, two bathroom, kitchen, great room, laundry room and covered porch. Registered Proprietor: Stephanie Bernadette Forbes & Oneil Edward Riley 13. Parcel 60002/253 North West & North Central Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, three bedroom, two bathroom, kitchen, great room, laundry room and covered porch. Registered Proprietor: Christopher Ricardo Reid & Cathyann Donita Harris Reid. 14. Parcel 60900/156 Leeward Going Through Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, consisting of two one bedroom apartments on the lower level, each unit contains a kitchen, living/dining area and bathroom. Upper level unit comprises of three bedrooms, two bathroom, kitchen and living/dining area. Registered Proprietor: Evans Bobby Lavard 15. Parcel 60715/308, Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales. Comprising a detached residential building providing two bedrooms, living and dining areas, a kitchen, two bathrooms. Registered Proprietor: Hugh Marvin Hendfield. 16. Parcel 60604/112, Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey detached building with a partial lower floor which provides 2 two bedroom apartments to the main floor and a single studio to the partial lower floor. A second detached single storey two bedroom residence. Registered Proprietors: Frank Carlos Duverge and Mernela Lexis Duverge. 17. Parcel 60807/90, The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales comprising of a guest residence providing two bedrooms, one bathroom, open plan living, dining and kitchen area including an external covered porch. Second building provides a main house with garage efficiency and a separate one bedroom efficiency unit. Registered Proprietors: John Emanuel Williams and Carlene Andra Nadine Williams The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 26th day of August 2011 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Manager (649) 946-4750.
Eric Forbes receiving award from HE Governor Wetherell
RetiRing senioR PRison officeR Eric Forbes has been recognised for his 28 years of dedicated service to his Majesty’s Prison and the Turks and Caicos Islands. He was presented with a shield by H.E. the Governor Gordon Wetherell, in a ceremony at the prison late last month, which was attended by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs Denise Saunders, and Senior Management and Senior Officers from the Prison. Governor Wetherell also toured HM Prison with SI Ian Sargent and saw how funding from the UK Overseas Territories Project Fund was spent earlier this year. The funds amounted to $80,000 and financed the completion of new accommodation, security enhancements and CCTV, and cell phone jamming equipment. It also assisted with the new Staff Training facility and the expansion of the Prison Farm and farming facilities. Governor Wetherell also addressed the Prison Staff and emphasised the importance he attached to the opportunity to recognize staff working within Her Majesty's Prison, and his pleasure at presenting the service shield to Mr Forbes. Eric Forbes is now on pre retirement leave until December 2011. He worked for the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force until he joined the Prison Service in 1983.
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LOCAL NEWS
CIBC FirstCaribbean’s volunteerism efforts extend to Turks and Caicos Islands’ capital, Grand Turk Staff at CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank, recently got the opportunity to socialise with some of TCI’s seniors, when they volunteered at the capital's Wellness and Special Needs Centre. Grand Turk's Wellness and Special Needs Centre, which houses approximately 10 of TCI’s senior citizens and also special needs persons, was a hive of activity late last month. To the delight of the residents, staff members from the bank’s Grand Turk branch joined them for morning devotions and to interact with them. CIBC FirstCaribbean also presented the senior citizens with two gift baskets filled with toiletries and other necessities. This is the Bank’s third Adopt-A-Cause initiative for the year, with one being organised each quarter in a different island. Adopt-A-Cause, which focuses on volunteerism throughout the Bank’s service territories, seeks to get staff members involved in various hands-on projects instead of simply giving financial donations. Country Manager Sherma Hercules, who was excited about the staff’s participation, noted, “Our aim for the 2011 AdoptA-Cause project was to focus on other islands
and not only Providenciales. Thus far, we have completed projects on Providenciales, North Caicos and now Grand Turk. Grand Turk is special to us because this was the first branch location for the Bank in the Turks and Caicos Islands. We are extremely honoured to give back to some of the citizens who would have welcomed us with open arms in 1966.” CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank is the largest, regionally-listed bank in the English- and Dutchspeaking Caribbean, serving over 500,000 accounts in 17 markets through 3,400 staff across 100 branches and offices. The bank offers a full range of market-leading financial services in Corporate Banking, Investment Banking, Treasury Sales and Trading, Retail Banking, Wealth Management, and Credit Cards. CIBC FirstCaribbean is a member of the CIBC Group. CIBC (TSX, NYSE: CM) is a leading North American financial institution serving clients in Canada and around the world. CIBC provides a full range of products and services to almost 11 million individual, small business and commercial banking clients and meets the financial needs of corporate and institutional clients.
Interhealth Canada tCI
MEDICAL DEVICE REPROCESSING AIDE Applications are invited for the part time post of Medical device Reprocessing (MDR) Aide Location: Cockburn Town Medical Facility Grand Turk Hours: Monday through Friday, 11am to 3pm Reports to: MDR Manager Provo Job responsibilities: • Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) • Observe best practice in hand hygiene • Pick up of all clinical soiled instruments • Decontamination and preparation of all soiled surgical and clinical instruments for air transfer from GT to Provo • Maintain clean and orderly work environment (theatre soiled utility room) • Maintain applicable consumable inventory for work area • Receiving sterile items from Provo • Unpack and deliver sterile items to clinical areas • Put away surgical sterile items • Manual clean and disinfect red and grey bins • Maintain record keeping (paper and computer entry) • Liaison with Nurse Managers (GT) and MDR Manager Provo Salary will be U$12,000 per annum Closing date is Wednesday 31st August. Applications with an up to date CV to include contact details are to be sent to pnicholson@interhealthcanada.tc
Members of the CIBC FirstCaribbean staff joined the Grand Turk's Wellness and Special Needs Centre for morning devotions
Gift baskets were donated
Interhealth Canada tCI
EDUCATION MANAGER Applications are invited for the post of Education Manager at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital. The position becomes vacant at the end of September 2011. The Post The post holder will report to the CEO and be responsible for the management, planning, and delivery of high quality in house education services and provide an overview of external education programmes for all medical and clinical staff covering online training, conferences, seminars and workshops. The post holder will also be responsible for management training to support the HR strategy and individual/team requirements. The Post Holder The successful candidate will be a professional medical educator with at least 10 years experience of nursing and nurse training and at least 3 years as the manager of a hospital Education Department. Experience working as an Education Manager within a successful commercial, for profit environment, providing healthcare to a client that is either a government or a government agency/body would be an advantage. Salary circa U$45,000 per annum dependant on qualifications and experience. Closing date is Friday 19th August. Applications with an up to date CV to include contact details are to be sent to pnicholson@interhealthcanada.tc
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LIFESTYLE
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LOCAL NEWS
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Babalua Beach Residences in Turks and Caicos Islands: The New Caribbean Curb Appeal
Globally, thinGs may change, but the Turks and Caicos Islands remain a destination where people want to be. “Whilst the Turks and Caicos Islands have definitely experienced a slowdown in the last three years, this does not mean that the islands are at a standstill. In fact, far from it.” says Katherine Baryluk and Robert Greenwood of Regency International Estates and exclusive Brokers for the Babalua Beach Residences. “There is a gap in the market – these beautiful, beachfront residences are designed without compromise and to fill this void”. The historic 6 acre beachfront property, now the site for the Babalua Beach Residences, is centrally located on the most popular North shore of Providenciales. It has been completely designed with the ocean and elements in mind, or as we like to call it “Caribbean Curb appeal”. Originally the location of one of the first homes in the area, known as “Mother’s House”, the site offers stunning elevated vistas of the Atlantic, with spectacular island views. All steps away from over 650 linear feet of one of Turks and Caicos Islands’ most famous, and historic beaches, Babalua Beach.
The initial development plan is to build an exclusive private residential enclave that would offer a selection of high end, luxury properties ranging from Majestic Estate Villas, to Luxury Estate Homes and Cool Beachfront Cottages, all with gracious homeowner amenities and services. Each property has been designed by the renowned architect Ron Shaw, with contemporary Caribbean styling and a sleek modernism that has fast become the new Caribbean, a must-have for those who not only want value and today’s modern standards in construction and style, but also maximizing the efficiency, comfort and ease of their residence. The developers of the Babalua Beach Residences place a priority on developing properties with the highest standards of quality, distinguished by the finest architectural details with the utmost attention to the right combination of style and luxury. To top it off, they’ve engaged the landscaping services of Tuckers Hill. As a result, the they believe that this site would be the perfect location for an exclusive Private Residence Luxury Enclave of homes, which would be a unique, "one of a kind" property for you and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The goal is to deliver an island experience that cannot be otherwise experienced in the Turks and Caicos. Photos by Gavin Anderson Photography"
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r to the adult
1. It was a day that from the toddle
was having fun ar to the TCI Allan 2. Honorary Jamaican Consulg with Brian Brown llin chi ht) (rig on Hutchins 3. Enjoying the vibes not to be outdone by the 4. These young ladies were colourful day oying the atmosphere 5. These ladies obviously enj keep their eyes off this 6. The men couldn’t seem to fabulously-dressed woman items was also available 7. A wide array of Jamaican for sale r of beauties was 8. Sandwiched between a pai mingly asked for see obviously all that this man e tim d 9. Having a goo t this pair was having a 10. The smiles indicate tha good time g on the day 11.There was lot of minglin up with these ladies ght cau era cam N SU The 12. having a whale of a time
1.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
This patron even sprayed his head in the Jamaican colour, while also sporting a designer eyewear of the same colour
13. Just chilling the crew 14. David Been (right) and dominoes enjoying a hard game of mselves the 15. Young dancers enjoying at the event colourful day 16. These ladies added to theinessman Allan Eden Bus and sul Con an 17. Jamaic nt of a photo op with Hutchinson seized the momeinson-Hodge and son tch his daughter Suzanne Hu Michael Hutchinson of Business Sales at 18. Magnus Christie Head winning trophy to the Digicel TCI, presents the winner of the jerk Chinson team for emergingrant also collected a cook-off. Chinson’s Restau handset for efforts iously enjoying the day 19. Hole in the Wall team obve many and varied 20. The Jamaican outfits werdecked out in their 21. This pair of beauties all Jamaican colours w hard at work 22. Chinson Restaurant cre
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AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011 AUGUST 12TH - AUGUST 19TH, 2011
By: David Newlands, Sun Reporter
“Caesar Apes alone, weak” signs this to an orangutan, using a stick to demonstrate his theory. He snaps the stick in half. “Apes together, strong” He then places the two sticks side by side; he bends them, showing that with support, they are harder to break.
”
Could unnatural evolution truly lead to revolution? In the case of ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ it certainly can. The film which has been praised by critics from the Rolling Stones and New York Times as having “stylish direction”, “impressive special effects” and “mesmerizing performances”, it seems that director Rupert Wyatt, known for directing the film ‘The Escapist’, has succeeded at giving the Planet of the Apes series its due honor. ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ has breathed new life into the series which has stretched back for 40+ years, with its original film which was released in 1968. Taking place in modern day San Francisco, scientist Will Rodman (James Franco) is a part of a pharmaceutical corporation known as Gen-Sys; while on a mission to find the cure Alzheimer’s disease, Rodman is forced into an awkward position when he is forced to take care of a baby Chimpanzee. At first, Rodman believes that the stay would be temporary; however when he notices his father’s attachment to the animal, as well as the chimp’s high level of intelligence caused by his genetic inheritance of the drug which Gen-sys was testing on chimpanzees, Rodman decides to adopt him. Naming the chimp Caesar, Rodman acts as a father figure while studying his mental development. Years later, after an unfortunate series of events, Caesar is forced by court order to be taken to a Chimpanzee facility where he witnesses the cruelty that his fellow apes are subjected to. Caesar, who was previously domesticated, was unaware of how humans treated his kind until he went to the facility. It is this cruelty that causes him to transform from a domesticated genius pet to Caesar, ruler of the apes. Not only does the story show the revolution of an entire species against humans, but it also shows the development of characters. Characters change and develop throughout the film; the most notable of these would be Caesar and Rodman. Another factor that makes the film worth watching is its CGI and special effects. Though the apes are motion captured computer animations, they move so realistically that it is easy to forget. This factor makes the final battle scene truly breathtaking, and a true climax for the film. The film uses this, along with a combination of drama, action and science fiction, blending it all to create an excellent, gripping story. Unlike many modern film adaptations, which tend to drown story out with special effects in an attempt to appeal to a new audience, ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ does not sacrifice substance and story for flash and action. Instead, the director maintained the intriguing story while augmenting it with better action scenes and special effects. Unlike the previous Planet of the Apes film, which was a remake of the 1968 original film directed by Tim Burton in 2001, ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ was a roaring success. Satisfying to both fans of the original as well as to those who have never seen it before, it has earned its rank amongst the ‘must see’ films of the summer.
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What goes around comes back around (hey my baby) What goes around comes back around (hey my baby) What goes around comes back around (hey my baby) What goes around comes back around (hey my baby) There was a time I thought, that you did everything right No lies, no wrong Boy I, must've been outta my mind So when I think of the time that I almost loved you You showed your a** and I saw the real you Thank God you blew it Thank God I dodged the bullet I'm so over you So baby good lookin' out [Chorus] I wanted you bad I'm so through with it Cuz honestly you turned out to be the best thing I never had You turned out to be the best thing I never had ys be the best thing alwa ' And I'm gon you never had I bet it sucks to be you right now
So sad, you're hurt Boo hoo, oh, did you expect me to care? erve my tears des 't You don I guess that's why they ain't there When I think that there was a time that I almost loved you You showed your ass and I saw the real you Thank God you blew it Thank God I dodged the bullet I'm so over you Baby good lookin' out [Chorus] I wanted you bad I'm so through with it Cuz honestly you turned out to be the best thing I never had I said, you turned out to be the best thing I never had And I'll never be the best thing you never had Oh baby I bet sucks to be you right now I know you want me back It's time to face the facts That I'm the one that's got away Lord knows that it would take another place, another time, another world,
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another life d the good in goodbye foun I God nk Tha [Chorus] I used to want you so bad I'm so through it that Cuz honestly you turned out to be the best thing I never had You turned out to be the best thing I never had ys be the, best thing you alwa And I will never had. Best thing you never had! I used to want you so bad I'm so through it that Cause honestly you turned out to be the best thing I never had Oh you turned out to be the best thing I never had Oh I will never be the best thing you never had it sucks to be you right bet I Oh baby, now Goes around, comes back around Goes around, comes back around Bet it sucks to be you right now Goes around, comes back around Bet it sucks to be you right now Goes around, comes back around Bet it sucks to be you right now
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ENTERTAINMENT
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Music stars campaign to end hunger crisis in Africa new BoB MarLey and the waiLers Video used to raise awareness A global social media campaign featuring a Bob Marley song was launched by some of the music industry's top stars on Tuesday to help stem the hunger crisis that is increasing in the Horn of Africa. More than 150 stars including Lady Gaga, U2, Justin Bieber, Jay-Z, The Rolling Stones and Paul McCartney are among the well-known figures using their Facebook pages and Twitter feeds to urge fans to donate money to help the numerous families starving in the region. The campaign, called "I'm Gonna Be Your Friend," can be found at www.imgonnabeyourfriend.org. It shows a video of Bob Marley & The Wailers' 1973 song, 'High Tide or Low Tide," accompanied by footage of malnourished children created by award-winning film director Kevin Macdonald. About 3.6 million people are at risk of starvation in Somalia and 12 million people across the Horn of Africa, including in Ethiopia and
More than 150 stars including Lady gaga (L), u2, Justin Bieber, Jay-Z (centre), the rolling stones and paul McCartney (right) are among the well-known figures using their Facebook pages and twitter feeds to urge fans to donate
Kenya, the United Nations says. The drought-hit Horn of Africa urgently needs funds to rebuild agriculture and fight famine. The United Nations food agency has called for a high level meeting to help overcome the worsening crisis. The "I'm Gonna Be Your Friend," campaign estimated it would reach over a billion people with partners such as Universal Music Group, Yahoo, Facebook, AOL, MSN, YouTube and Twitter and the power of celebrities' reach. The combined power of using Facebook and Twitter pages
alone will reach 730 million, the campaign said. Donations or downloads of "High Tide or Low Tide," for $1.29 will go to the Save the Children appeal for east Africa and used for food, water and medicine. Other stars participating include Sting, David Beckham, Eminem, Rihanna, Annie Lennox, Bruno Mars, Madonna, Ricky Martin and Lily Allen. "High Tide or Low Tide" was chosen by the Marley family for the resonance of the single's lyrics, "I'm
Gonna Be Your Friend" and can also be found on www.facebook.com/bobmarley. The video starts with the slogan "The Worst Drought in Decades" and after showing images of starving and thirsty children, ends with a black-andwhite image of the late Marley behind the message, "Millions of children are facing starvation." "We must stand up together as friends to put a stop to this, to feed our children and to save their lives," Rita Marley, Bob Marley's widow, said in a statement.
TBS canceling comic George Lopez's talk show
Matt Lauer Makes $17 MiLLion, topping annuaL tV news saLaries
LOS ANGELES— George age" of about 32, Adgate Lopez, who surrendered his said, which is part of the TBS time slot to Conan younger adult audience O'Brien and then saw ratings favored by advertisers. for "Lopez Tonight" slide, got Lopez was among the a cancelation notice rare minority entertainers to Wednesday. Lopez's Thursday get a shot at a late-night show at midnight will be the show, with Arsenio Hall and final one, the cable network Wanda Sykes also in the said in a statement. group. Late-night hosts are "TBS has reached the uniformly white and male, difficult decision not to order a including O'Brien, Leno, third season of 'Lopez David Letterman, Craig Tonight,'" the network said, Ferguson, Jimmy Fallon and adding that it was proud to Jimmy Kimmel. have worked with the Neither Lopez nor "immensely talented comedian O'Brien has been covered in george Lopez and entertainer." ratings glory since TBS made TBS declined further its bold move to snare the comment. The decision was based not only on former broadcast network star. ratings but also the cost of the show, according Lopez's total viewership dropped 40 percent to a person familiar with the production, who in its second year, from an average of 910,000 spoke on condition of anonymity because TBS nightly viewers at 11 p.m. ET to 543,000 at hadn't authorized public comment. midnight. In August, the audience has dropped A call to Lopez's representatives was not to 391,000. immediately returned. "Conan" has been drawing slightly more The comic gave up his 11 p.m. ET time slot than 1 million viewers for the season, just 13 to make room for O'Brien, who joined TBS after percent higher than Lopez did in his first year, leaving NBC's "Tonight" over a time-slot Adgate said, citing Nielsen Co. figures. dispute that ended up reinstating Jay Leno as For the first part of August, "Conan" is "Tonight" host. averaging 709,000 nightly viewers. During its The plan for TBS was to have a one-two debut month, November 2010, O'Brien's show punch of late-night shows that would had about 2 million nightly viewers. particularly appeal to young viewers, but the In comparison, "The Daily Show With Jon results have been unimpressive and the Stewart" is getting nearly 1.3 million viewers cancelation unsurprising, said media analyst for Comedy Central at 11 p.m. ET, with "The Brad Adgate of Horizon Media. Colbert Show" following it up at 11:30 ET with "The only positive was a young median an average 982,000 viewers.
When Katie Couric's fiveyear, $65 million contract with CBS News expired earlier this year, one of the reported reasons that the network elected to part company with its nightly news anchor was that Couric simply had become too expensive to keep. Her "Evening News" replacement, Scott Pelley, is said to be earning less than $5 million per year. Meanwhile, some of Couric's other colleagues in Matt Lauer the television news business appear to be doing just fine. According to TV Guide's upcoming salary issue, Matt Lauer's new contract with NBC earns him $17 million a year--a well-deserved figure, given the exotic bird hazards that Lauer has to face on the "Today" show set. Brian Williams, host of NBC's "Nightly News," earns $13 million annually--$1 million more than ABC's "World News" host Diane Sawyer. Anderson Cooper's new deal with Time Warner-which includes "AC 360" and his upcoming daytime talk show, "Anderson"--is worth $11 million a year. Fox News' Bill O'Reilly, who hosts the top-rated show on cable news, gets $10 million per year--the same salary that former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann now draws at his new perch at Current TV. Despite these bulging salaries, "network news divisions and talk-show producers are also trying to hold down costs," TV Guide reports. "Regis Philbin is leaving 'Live! With Regis and Kelly' instead of taking a cut in his $15 million salary." And Piers Morgan "is getting less than a third of what Larry King earned during his final year in CNN's prime-time lineup."
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US woman missing in Aruba and travel partner held A U.S. woman has disappeared while vacationing in Aruba, and authorities said Tuesday that police detained her travel partner because his statements about the incident had raised questions. Robyn Gardner, 35, of Frederick, Maryland, vanished after snorkeling with her companion off the western tip of the Caribbean island Aug. 2, said Ann Angela, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor's office. She said police immediately launched an extensive search of the water and shore but turned up nothing and Gardner is still listed as missing. As the official search ended Saturday, the man who accompanied Gardner to the island sought to fly this photo of robyn Gardner, 35, of Frederick, Md., was released by the natalee Holloway back to the U.S. but he was detained at resource center on tuesday. the airport. "Statements made by the traveling on the possible drowning of the companion led to such questions that woman," the prosecutor's office said in on Friday, Aug. 5, 2011, it was decided a statement. to detain him for further questioning Authorities referred to the man
only by his initials, but his lawyer identified him as Gary V. Giordano, 50. The newspaper Aruba Today said Giordano was detained because he bought a ticket to leave the island after earlier agreeing to stay and help the missing woman's mother search for her and to cooperate with the investigation into her disappearance. Aruba has experience dealing with missing person cases following the still unsolved disappearance of Alabama teenager Natalee Holloway during a high school class trip to the island in 2005. Her remains were never found and the main suspect, Joran van der Sloot, is in jail in Peru on charges of killing a 21-year-old woman last May. Giordano's Aruban lawyer, Michael Lopez, said his client was being unjustly held. "Our client emphatically denies being involved in any malicious act concerning his friend and
Cayman Islands Government to help residents pay off mortgages Some of the money from the multi-million dollar Dart deal will go toward paying off people’s mortgages, Cayman Islands Premier McKeeva Bush told a packed meeting to discuss the deal in West Bay . Mr. Bush said $2.5 million from the deal would be used for a mortgage assistance programme, which could begin by the end of this month. “In this awful economic climate where the international recession has hit many Caymanians ... some are losing their houses,” the premier said. Dart is giving the government $18 million to invest in education, housing and community programmes as part of the deal. Mr. Bush did not elaborate on who would be eligible to get the mortgage assistance or how applications would be made. He said more announcements in relation to the mortgage programme would come soon. In response to a comment from a member of the audience who said Caymanians were a proud people who did not want to take handouts, Mr. Bush said these were unusual times when people needed help more than ever. He said people who took advantage of the mortgage assistance scheme would have to pay back the money. “This is not a grant,” he said. “I think it is laudable that we can do this,” said Mr. Bush, citing an example a family losing their $250,000 home when they only had $40,000 to pay off on their mortgage. More than 150 people attended the meeting hosted by the government and Dart Realty Cayman Limited, under the banner of the For Cayman Investment Alliance, to discuss the proposed wide-ranging deal. At the beginning of the meeting, moderator Charles Glidden, Premier Bush’s press secretary, asked the audience to bear in mind that the deal had not yet been “signed, sealed and delivered”. Premier Bush said the government was still trying to hammer out a better deal with the Dart Group. The company and the government in June signed a Heads of Terms Agreement, which records what has been agreed between the government and Dart prior to entering into a formal contract and formed the For Cayman Investment Alliance. The deal will cost the Dart Group more than $100 million in cash outlay, not including construction-related investment. All together, Dart is committing to US$415 million of direct investment over the next five years, US$200 million of which will be spent in the next two years. The Dart Group anticipates spending more than $1.2 billion during the next 20 years. There is no debt, sovereign guarantees or cash outlay required by the Cayman Islands government as a result of the deal. Other elements of the deal include Dart giving government 110 acres of land for a new solid waste disposal facility in Bodden Town and taking ownership of the George Town Landfill, which it plans to close, cap and remediate.
consequently does not consider himself a suspect," Lopez said. The two Americans had been in Aruba a couple of days when they decided to go snorkeling in the area known as Baby Beach, Lopez said. He said the pair eventually realized they were being pulled out to sea by the current and Giordano tapped on Gardner's leg to signal that they should swim back. When he got to shore, he noticed she wasn't with him and ran to get help after looking for her unsuccessfully in the water, the lawyer said. Lopez said that in the following days, Giordano assisted with the search and answered questions from police. He said his client waited until the woman's mother arrived before he decided he should return to the U.S. Giordano says he was given permission to leave by an official at the U.S. consulate on the nearby island of Curacao, the lawyer said.
St. KittS could See Air cAnAdA yeAr round BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Air Canada’s scheduled seasonal service from Toronto to St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport later this year could become a year-round service. That’s according to Dr. Arthur Porter, a director on the airline’s Board. He says management will look at the loads and make decisions for a year round schedule from Toronto to St. Kitts. Dr. Poerter said the airline’s service which starts in December, will not only benefit local tourism but also scores of nationals living in the North American nation. “Whenever I see the airline taking on the role in coming to places like St. Kitts, I think it is terrific as the air routes will determine to some extent tourism and tourism to some extent determines the economy,” he said. Dr. Porter said the decision by Air Canada's management to include St. Kitts on its schedule is part of its policy to “broaden the reach of Canadians as well as to allow us to have great tourist trade.” “It also opens routes for Kittitians and Nevisians. And one of the things is that St. Kitts and Nevis, like Canada, is a member of the Commonwealth, with similar legislative styles, with many Kittitian and Nevisian students in Canada and especially in the Montreal area where there are many Kittitians and Nevisians,” he said. “It just seems logical to make the world a smaller place.” Air Canada’s weekly service starts on December 23, 2011 for the peak winter 2011/2012 travel season which ends in April 2012. The non-stop flight will operate from Toronto on Fridays and will be the island’s only non-stop commercial flight from Canada, effectively making St. Kitts and its sister island, Nevis, a more viable winter destination choice for travelers from the key North American market
ALVEDA GARDINER Of North Caicos Turks & Caicos Islands is seeking a
Bus ATTENDANT To work from Monday – saturday. salary $100.00 per week Contact 241-7575
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Free movement of OECS citizens takes effect Monday August 1, 2011 heralded the commencement of full free movement of OECS citizens throughout the six independent countries of the Organisation. Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines agreed that, from that date, they would permit OECS citizens to enter their territories and remain for an indefinite period in order to work, establish businesses, provide services or reside. Free movement of OECS citizens is one of the fundamental aspects of the Revised Treaty of Basseterre establishing the OECS Economic Union,
Barbados and Panama sign air services agreement Barbados and Panama have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Air Services that provides the framework for airlines from both countries to operate flights between the two states. Minister of International Business and International Transport George Hutson said the successful outcome of the Air Service Negotiations will “expand international air services opportunities and facilitate increased opportunities for tourism, trade and commercial activity between our two countries in particular, as well as the wider central and South America.” He said it would also go a long way towards cementing the historical ties of family and friendship between Panamanians and Barbadians. The signing came just over a year after the two countries reached a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA). That tax agreement is expected to enhance trade and investment and also provide new scope for the movement of professors, teachers, artisans and sportspersons between the two countries. The signing of the MOU on air services culminates talks on both these areas. Barbados and Panama are both members of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), having ratified the Convention on International Civil Aviation, 1944. It is on the basis of that Convention that Member States of the ICAO established air services agreements either on a bilateral or a multilateral basis. Such agreements are a prelude to the establishment of air services between and beyond the territories of the states involved.
which entered into force on January 21, 2011. On that date the OECS Authority of Heads of Government agreed that August 01, 2011 would be the implementation date for the regime for the complete free movement of citizens of participating Member States. In order to facilitate the free movement of citizens, the following administrative arrangements and procedures are in effect in Member States: OECS citizens traveling within the Economic Union should enter the special immigration lines designated for CARICOM Nationals. OECS citizens traveling within the Union must
produce the following documents to the immigration Officials at the point of entry: 1. A valid photo identification card that bears the nationality of the holder, for example, a passport, driver’s license, voter’s registration card or a national ID card. 2. A completed E/D form. The immigration official shall grant entry for an indefinite period, save and except in those circumstances where the citizen poses a security risk or there exists some other legal basis for prohibiting entry to the citizen.
Landing protocol lapses seen in Guyana crash-landing -WSJ Movable panels on the front and rear edges of the wings of the Caribbean Airlines (CAL) jet that overshot the runway at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on July 30 were apparently not extended as required before touchdown and crash investigators believe excessive speed and other suspected lapses in landing procedures caused the accident, the Wall Street Journal reported. Preliminary findings by investigators, according to industry and government officials, point to pilot error rather than mechanical or other system malfunctions, the WSJ report said. A source close to the investigations said last week that preliminary investigations point to pilot error as the main contributing factor to Caribbean Airlines Flight 523 overshooting the runway at the CJIA. The source said that information from the flight recorders as well as marks on the runway confirmed that the jet touched down close to halfway along the length of the runway. The WSJ report, citing unnamed officials, said that eyewitness accounts and data retrieved from the plane’s data-recorders indicate the twin-engine Boeing aircraft landed too fast and too far down the runway. Other sources said that the preliminary investigations revealed that the aircraft had touched the runway surface close to halfway down the length of the main Runway O6 at the CJIA. The aircraft touched down between two taxiways codenamed Alpha and Bravo which aircraft such as the Boeing 737 would normally use to exit the runway. At about 1:32am on July 30, CAL Flight 523 overshot the runway at the CJIA and hurtled through the perimeter fence of the airport before the jet broke in two. There were 162 passengers and crew onboard the Boeing 737-800 aircraft at the time of the crash. There were no fatalities. The WSJ reported that Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Zulfikar Mohamed, in two separate interviews last week, said that the cockpit crew of Flight 523 reported no problems to air-traffic controllers on approach and data analyzed by investigators so far also doesn’t highlight any major system malfunctions. The comments played down theories that hydraulic or mechanical problems played a
significant role in the accident, the report said. According to the report, Mohamed also gave the strongest sign yet that at least some investigators believe that movable panels on the front and rear edges of wings—essential to decelerate most airliners during descents—apparently weren’t extended as required before touchdown. “It appears that way,” Mohamed said, based on early findings and informal discussions with U.S. and other investigators. The article noted that photographs taken after the accident do not show either sets of panels, called flaps and slats, extended on the plane. Mohamed was quoted as saying that investigators found the handle in the cockpit, normally used to extend the flaps, in the up position, which would be consistent with the panels not being extended. “The handles certainly may have been in a position they shouldn’t have been,” he said. However, he told the WSJ that investigators still have to rule out the possibility that the wing panels could have retracted after touchdown, or the rescue crew could have inadvertently moved the flap handles when they were removing the plane’s injured pilot or other survivors. Safety experts and people familiar with the investigation, who spoke with the WSJ, discounted those possibilities. Completely retracting flaps fully extended for touchdown on a relatively short runway such as the one in Guyana, experts said, typically would take longer than Flight 523 remained on the runway. Furthermore, passenger-evacuation procedures usually require pilots to extend, rather than retract, flaps. The report said that it would be highly unusual for an experienced captain, such as the one who commanded the CAL flight, to fail to extend flaps prior to landing. Such a mistake, according to safety experts, normally would prompt obvious and repeated warning in the cockpit, and the plane would be extremely difficult to fly at normal approach speed. The WSJ noted that images of the four-year old Boeing 737’s broken fuselage—along with reports of terrified passengers scrambling out of the wreck— sparked widespread public and industry interest in the causes of the accident.
Earthquake shakes St. Lucia There was some initial alarm, but no damage or injuries, following a moderate earthquake that occurred east of St. Lucia last Sunday and was reportedly felt in at least two other Caribbean islands. The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Unit in Trinidad had initially measured the quake at a magnitude of 5.3 but the US Geological Service put it at 5.0.
The tremor which struck just a minute past midnight, at a depth of 24 miles, was felt in St. Vincent as well as Martinique. The quake was followed by several aftershocks. The quake was located 44 miles east southeast of St. Lucia’s capital, Castries, 70 miles northwest of Barbados, and 72 miles southeast of Fort-de-France, Martinique.
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Spending cuts coming for Jamaica KINGSTON, Jamaica – Finance Minister Audley Shaw has warned of further cuts in government spending and a push towards increasing revenue as Jamaica tries to meet targets outlined under its Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In an address to the nation, Shaw said the critical issue for the IMF is the ratio of Central Government wages-toGDP which is too high for the Fund’s liking. At the end of the last fiscal year (2010/11), the cost of central government wages was 10.7 percent of GDP, but that must be reduced to 9 percent of GDP by March 2016. He said that in addition to the medium-term wage costs-to-GDP issue, several other challenges have impacted
negatively on Jamaica’s ability to meet its current year and medium-term fiscal targets. These include the recent public sector wage settlement adding J$10.4 billion (US$122 million) to expenditure this fiscal year and J$31 billion (US$365 million) which is just over 2 percent of GDP, over the medium term; the delay in the planned divestment of the Government shares in Clarendon Alumina Production (CAP) which has led to higher than targeted expenditure; and grants being 4.2 percent below budget for the first quarter of the 2011/12 fiscal year. “Adjustments to the 2011/12 budget have to be made to achieve the targeted primary balance for this fiscal year. Accordingly, the first supplementary estimates are being prepared for Cabinet
Stanford liquidators get access to frozen assets The Antigua-based liquidators of the Allen Stanford empire have been given permission from a judge in Britain to access up to US$20 million of the US$100 million in assets frozen there. Justice Elizabeth Gloster ruled that Marcus Wide and Hugh Dickson of Grant Thornton can use the funds to launch legal action against third parties and to market and sell property assets once owned by the former billionaire who is accused of a US$8 million fraud. The planned legal action includes lawsuits against banks and advisers who worked with Stanford. Investors who profited from the alleged fraud will also be targeted. Of the US$20 million that the liquidators will have access to, US$5 million has been made available to them immediately. The ruling came a day after attorney-at-law Andrew Bodnar, appearing for the liquidators, made the request. The application had been opposed by lawyers for the UK Serious Fraud Office, appearing on behalf of the US Department of Justice, who insisted that the money should be repatriated to the US.
approval on August 15, 2011 and eventual tabling in Parliament at the end of August,” Shaw announced. “These adjustments involve cuts to capital and recurrent expenditure across Ministries, Departments and Agencies. This is because a sacrosanct part of our agreement is the commitment of expenditure on an “ability to pay” basis only. This is the only honest approach we can take towards achieving a sustainable future.” But expenditure is not the only side of the equation, Shaw said. The adjustments will also involve revenue enhancement measures. To this end, Tax Administration of Jamaica has launched the Revenue Enhancement and Arrears Project (REAP) aimed at collecting a significant portion of tax
arrears. The IMF’s last review of Jamaica’s Economic Programme was in September 2010 when all the quantitative targets were met. The review of the December 2010 and March 2011 quarterly assessments have not yet taken place, according to Shaw, “because the critical issue now facing the Government concerns our medium-term programme”. However, the Finance Minister did note that the overall assessment of Jamaica’s performance under the SBA has been “broadly positive”, though there was slippage in the March 2011 quarter, particularly with respect to the Central Government primary surplus, which was J$3.5 billion (US$41 million) lower than programmed.
The Bahamas puts ban on scrap metal trade In response to widespread theft of copper and various metals, the government has placed a temporary ban on the export of scrap metal and a permanent ban on the export of copper. The scrap metal export ban will last for a period of 90 days. “These measures have been taken as a result of the impact such theft has had on major industries and utilities whose services have been disrupted,” a statement from the government said yesterday. “The Government is assessing the scrap metal industry and will engage with various stakeholders and legitimate businesses with a view to better regulating and monitoring the industry.” On Tuesday, Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Dr. Christopher Tufton announced that the export of scrap metal has been banned totally, following widespread pillaging of metal over the past three years, particularly in the last few months, as well as failure by industry stakeholders, despite warnings, to implement measures to help to curb metal theft. The ban in that country followed a temporary shutdown of the scrap metal industry announced the previous week. Despite criticism of the ban by Dr. Tufton's predecessor Karl Samuda and scrap metal dealers in the country, Minister with responsibility for Information, Telecommunications and Special Projects Daryl Vaz insisted yesterday that the shutdown was the best move at this time. He said the Bruce Golding administration stood by its decision, as the industry was "doing more harm than good...The fact of the matter is that we have gotten to the stage now where they are vandalising private property, and government property, which is having a serious impact on the country's infrastructure". "This was a collective decision by Cabinet, it had the input of the Commissioner of Customs, the Permanent Secretary in the (Industry) Ministry, and all issues relating to this matter including the previous ban and the recommendations by the Ministry, were taken into consideration at Monday's Cabinet. The decision was based on looking at all of the options that were put forward both by the Ministry and the previous recommendations that were there prior to Minister Tufton," Vaz said. Dr. Tufton had said that scrap metal theft has cost the government and the private sector more than $1 billion over the past three years.
Trinidad Health Minister warns of fines over dengue PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The death of an eight-year-old girl from dengue fever has prompted Health Minister Dr. Fuad Khan to urge residents to “clean up their act", to prevent the spread of the disease, warning that the Ministry is giving consideration to fining irresponsible residents who fail to keep their surroundings clean. Dr. Khan made the appeal and issued the warning as he noted that an empty lot near the home of the young dengue victim, Asia Archibald, could have provided a breeding ground for the dengue-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
“I understand there is an empty lot where she lives and there is a possibility of that area having broken bottles etc., and a bottle, even if it's not broken, could collect water inside. A mosquito is a very small thing, it could just go into the mouth of the bottle and breed and then come out, so it's possible that could have happened,” he said. The Health Minister said that although there is legislation in place for the Regional Corporation to fine people who don’t take care of their properties, the whole process frustrates the government agency. “And it lets off a lot of delinquent
people off the hook because the process is long and drawn out, but I think we need immediate fines also, as they do abroad, in areas such as this,” Dr. Khan said. He added that while people call for spraying once there is a mosquito infestation, that is not the solution. “Spraying is part of the answer, like a five per cent; 95 per cent of the answer lies in cleaning up the surroundings,” Dr. Khan insisted. The Health Minister said drains also needed to be cleaned and people had to look after themselves and their surroundings and not expect the Government to do everything for them.
Health Minister Dr. Fuad Khan
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UK may use army in future riots, says PM Cameron Britain will crack down on gangs and may call in army support if this week's riots are repeated, Prime Minister David Cameron said on Thursday, saying he would not allow a "culture of fear" to exist on the streets. The government will also give the police powers to demand people remove face coverings after many looters who ransacked shops during riots in London and other English cities this week wore masks to avoid being identified. Anyone whose home or business was damaged in the riots, in which four people were killed, may seek compensation under the Riot Damages Act, Cameron said. "The whole country has been Fire fighters and riot police survey the area as fire rages through a building in Tottenham, north against the death of a local man turned violent and cars shocked by the most appalling scenes London on Aug. 7, 2011. A demonstration and shops were set ablaze. of people looting, violence, vandalising and thieving. It is criminality pure and simple. And there fear to exist on our streets. And we will what you have done," he said. Police numbers in London, which is absolutely no excuse for it," do whatever it takes to restore law and order and to rebuild our communities," have been almost tripled to 16,000 to Cameron told parliament, which was Cameron said. quell the riots, will remain at that called in to emergency session to Saying the fightback had begun, number through the weekend, debate the riots. Rioters looted shops, set fire to Cameron pledged the authorities Cameron said. He said he would not rule out buildings and vehicles and attacked would hunt down looters and rioters. "To the lawless minority, the calling in army support -- an police, harming Britain's image less than a year before London hosts the criminals who've taken what they can extraordinary event in Britain -- if get. I say this: We will track you down, there were more disturbances. 2012 Olympics. "It is the government's "We will not put up with this in our we will find you, we will charge you, country. We will not allow a culture of we will punish you. You will pay for responsibility to make sure that every
future contingency is looked at, including whether there are tasks that the army could undertake that might free up more police for the front line," he said. Cameron pledged action against street gangs, saying there was evidence they had coordinated attacks on police and looting. The government will make combating them a national priority, drawing on the success of cities such as Boston in the United States, he said. He said the government would give the police the power to remove people's face coverings when they were suspected to be involved in crime. "On dealing with crowds, we are also looking at the use of existing dispersal powers and whether any wider power of curfew is necessary," he said. Some local authorities already have powers to evict convicted rioters from social housing and Cameron said he wanted to see more local councils doing this. Calling for action to mend Britain's "broken society", Cameron said the country needed a benefit system that rewarded work, more discipline in schools and action to deal with disruptive families.
Somali children struggle in famine-struck Mogadishu MOGADISHU — In drought-ravaged Somalia where food is scarce, three-year-old Ibrahim is so severely malnourished he weighs less than eight kilos (18 pounds), about the same as an eight-monthold baby. "My child is very sick, he's had a fever, vomiting and got diarrhoea," said his mother Rukyo Abdullahi, sitting worriedly by her tiny son's bedside, his skin stretched tight against his small bones. "He was given some medicine from a local pharmacy, but as soon as he took it, he got worse -the blood drained away from his face." Abdullahi fled with Ibrahim into the famine-hit Somali capital last week, risking violence in one of the world's most dangerous cities in a desperate effort to save her son's life. An African Union-United Nations image shows a mother and her child in Banadir Hospital in Mogadishu "I don't have any money to support my family," the tired looking mother added sadly, waving away the flies that buzz above her crying child. including in Mogadishu and four southern regions. She trekked some 50 kilometres (30 miles) on In the past two months, some 100,000 people foot into the war-torn city with her feeble child, who have fled into Mogadishu, seeking food, water and also has measles. shelter. Brought to Mogadishu's Banadir hospital, Hard working doctors are struggling to cope, Ibrahim is struggling to survive. Too weak to eat, offering what little they can with their basic facilities. doctors are fitting him with a feeding tube through The UN's food monitoring unit has described his nose. Somalia as facing the most severe humanitarian Conflict-ridden Somalia is the hardest hit by an crisis in the world and Africa's worst food security extreme drought affecting 12 million people across crisis since the country's 1991-1992 famine. the Horn of Africa. Doctor Lulu Mohamed, head of paediatrics at The United Nations has officially declared the hospital, said the situation is the worst she has famine in Somalia for the first time this century, seen since 1992.
That was the year after then president Siad Barre was toppled from power, and Somalia spiralled into the bloody conflict that has engulfed it ever since. "Since then we haven't seen this overwhelming number of malnourished children -- and the death rate is increasing," Mohamed said. Al-Qaeda-affiliated Shebab rebels, who had controlled around half of Mogadishu, abandoned their positions in a surprise withdrawal at the weekend. But clashes have continued between rebel remnants and African Union-backed government troops. There is some help in the city, but local aid workers say they are being overwhelmed by the demand. "Day after day the situation is worsening because new arrivals are coming from drought affected areas to Mogadishu," said Adan Yusuf Mahadi, who helps run a feeding centre run by a local aid agency. "People are in need, people need help," he said, warning that current relief efforts could in no way cope with the sheer number of people in need. Outside the city, from where thousands continue to flee, the situation is reportedly worse, with aid agency access even more limited there. "Where I am from, life is very difficult," said Abdullahi, who abandoned her family's farm after crops withered and animals died from the lack of rain. "There is no aid getting there, we never get any help."
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Statue of Liberty to close for one year during repairs NEW YORK — Repairs to the Statue of Liberty will require closing the iconic symbol of freedom and democracy to tourists for a year, although the island on which it stands will remain accessible, officials said. The statue, whose torch and stern face are emblematic of the United States, will undergo a $27.25 million renovation beginning in October, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced Wednesday. Tourists can now enter in small
numbers from the base, before climbing up into the famous crown. The statue which will stay open through the October 28 celebration of the 125th anniversary of its dedication. Work will commence the following day, but Liberty Island, where the copper statue is located in New York harbor, will remain open to tourists. The announcement marks another twist for the monument popularly known as Lady Liberty. Access to the
interior of the statue was barred after the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York, then reopened two years ago to highly restricted groups of tourists. Officials say they plan to make the statue more accessible with improvements to the spiraling stairway inside the monument, and to fire safety devices, restrooms and elevators. "I promised that we would continue to upgrade the interior to make it safer and more accessible for
all," Salazar said. "With today's announcement, we are taking a major step in bringing a 19th Century icon into the 21st Century." The Statue of Liberty was presented to the United States in 1886 as a gift of friendship from the people of France. It came to symbolize freedom -- especially for immigrants, 12 million of whom passed through nearby Ellis Island as they entered the United States.
Strauss-Kahn maid files civil suit in NY The maid accusing French politician Dominique Strauss-Kahn of attempted rape filed a civil suit Monday in New York alleging a "sadistic attack" and seeking unspecified compensation. Her move came as prosecutors deliberated over whether to drop sex assault charges against StraussKahn, or take the former head of the International Monetary Fund and powerful French figure to trial. The 17-page court filing alleged a "violent and sadistic attack" in the Manhattan Sofitel room where Nafissatou Diallo went to clean Strauss-Kahn's luxury room on May 14. No specific amount of money was named in the suit, which referred only to "an award of damages in an amount to be determined at trial, plus prejudgment interest" and other unspecified compensation. Filled with gruesome detail about how the French VIP allegedly forced his penis into the Guinean immigrant's mouth, the suit also claimed that Strauss-Kahn had assaulted women in "hotel rooms around the world." The suit requested a jury trial in the Bronx, a tough neighborhood of New York where Diallo lives and where the local state court has a reputation for favoring victims in civil suits. Responding to the suit, lawyers for Strauss-Kahn -- who until the scandal had been tipped to become the next president of France -- said Diallo and her lead lawyer Kenneth Thompson were simply after their client's fortune.
"We have maintained from the into question Diallo's beginning that the motivation of Mr credibility amid revelations Thompson and his client was to make that she lied on her application money. The filing of this lawsuit ends form to gain asylum in the any doubt on that question. The civil United States from her native suit has no merit and Mr Strauss-Kahn Guinea. will defend it vigorously," attorneys But Thompson argues that William Taylor and Benjamin Brafman his client risks being said. abandoned by prosecutors and The suit alleged "sexual assault, that a jury trial in civil court is battery, false imprisonment and her only choice. intentional infliction of emotional As part of a fight against distress upon Ms Diallo, whom he negative reports about her sexually assaulted as she attempted to credibility, Diallo took the do her job as a housekeeper." unusual step of going public Strauss-Kahn, the suit said, last month with media "intentionally, brutally and violently interviews and a press sexually assaulted Ms Diallo and in conference to present her side Nafissatou Diallo the process humiliated, degraded, of the story. Alleged victims violated and robbed Ms Diallo of her in sex crime cases rarely seek dignity as a woman." to reveal their identity, let alone mount media The ensuing emotional and mental distress was campaigns. such that "she may never recover." The burden of proof in a civil trial is significantly A civil suit was always expected. Only the lower than the near watertight "beyond a reasonable timing was in question and ordinarily a civil action doubt" standard that has to be met in criminal courts. is held back until the fate of the criminal case is clear. That could mean that even if Strauss-Kahn is let off Strauss-Kahn's next scheduled court appearance by prosecutors, he will still face a bruising jury trial in the criminal case is August 23. There has been in the Bronx. speculation that prosecutors may drop their charges Alternatively, he could, through his lawyers, seek to at that hearing. pay Diallo in an out-of-court settlement. The district attorney's office has publicly called
Taliban who downed US helicopter killed The Taliban insurgents who shot down a US Chinook helicopter in Afghanistan, leaving 30 American troops dead, have been hunted down and killed in an air strike, the US commander said Wednesday. But General John Allen, who commands both US and NATO forces in Afghanistan, said the insurgent leader who was the target of the original operation in which the Americans perished remained at large. "Did we get the leader that we were going after in the initial operation? No, we did not," he told reporters by video link from Kabul. In the deadliest incident of the war for NATO, insurgents shot down the Chinook on Friday in eastern Afghanistan, killing 30 US troops, including 25 elite special forces, as well as seven Afghan commandos and an interpreter. Allen said that "at approximately midnight on 8 August, coalition forces killed the Taliban insurgents
responsible for this attack" in a bombing raid by an F-16 fighter jet. The general called the downing of the chopper in the remote Tangi Valley a "tragic incident" but portrayed the retaliatory strike against the insurgents as proof that the United States would press ahead with the war. "This does not ease our loss, but we must and we will continue to relentlessly pursue the enemy," said Allen. The helicopter attack came amid waning public support for the war and growing anxiety in Congress about the cost of the conflict that has dragged on since 2001. Allen announced the air strike against the insurgents as the Pentagon faced criticism over how it has handled the crash. The ceremony for the return of the remains of the fallen troops, which was attended by President Barack Obama and other top officials, was closed to the media and the names of those killed
have yet to be released -- in a break with Defense Department practice. But Pentagon spokesman Colonel Dave Lapan said Wednesday the identities would be released within 24 hours, after Defense Secretary Leon Panetta overruled objections from officers at special operations command. Describing the helicopter crash in detail for the first time, Allen said the Chinook had been sent in as part of an operation targeting a Taliban leader. "The intelligence that had been generated to this point led us to believe there was an enemy network in the Tangi Valley in the Wardak province, and the purpose of this mission was to go after the leadership of that network," the general said. When "less than 10" insurgent fighters were seen "escaping," the Chinook chopper carrying 22 Navy SEAL commandos, three Air Force special forces and Afghan soldiers was ordered in to head them off, he said.
The CH-47 was then shot out of the sky with a rocket-propelled grenade, killing all 38 people on board. US forces then tracked the insurgents responsible, calling in an air strike on Monday night with an F-16 fighter. The insurgents were traced over the weekend to a wooded area in the Chak district "after an exhaustive manhunt" by special operations forces, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said in a statement. The F-16 strike killed the "shooter" as well as a Taliban militant, Mullah Mohibullah, who "were attempting to flee the country in order to avoid capture," ISAF said. Asked if he had concerns about the use of the larger, slower Chinook in Friday's operation or the deployment of such a large number of elite special forces as a quick reaction force, Allen said he was "comfortable" with the decisions made.
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Polygamist leader Jeffs gets life in prison Polygamist leader Warren Jeffs was sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday for sexually assaulting two underage followers he took as brides in what his church deemed "spiritual marriages." The head of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints stood quietly as the decision of the Texas jury was read Tuesday. He received the maximum sentence on both counts. Prosecutor Eric Nichols had asked the jury for a life sentence, saying the case was "a prosecution to protect people." Jurors deliberated less than half an hour. The 55-year-old Jeffs, who had insisted on acting as his own attorney during the earlier part of the trial, was convicted Thursday. He walked out of the sentencing phase in protest after reading a statement Friday that he claimed was from God, promising a "whirlwind of judgment" on the world if God's "humble servant" wasn't set free. During the trial, prosecutors used DNA evidence to show Jeffs fathered a child with a 15-year-old and played an audio recording of what they said was him sexually assaulting a 12-year-old. They played other tapes in which Jeffs was heard instructing as many as a dozen of his young wives on how to please him sexually — and thus, he told them, please God.
Polygamist leader Warren Jeffs
"If the world knew what I was doing, they would hang me from the highest tree," Jeffs wrote in 2005, according to one of thousands of pages of notes seized along with the audio recordings from his Texas ranch. Jeffs claimed his religious rights were being violated. Representing himself after burning through seven high-powered attorneys, he routinely interrupted the proceedings and chose to stand silently in front of jurors for nearly half an hour during his closing arguments. He called just one defense witness, a church elder who read from Mormon scripture.
The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a radical offshoot of mainstream Mormonism that believes polygamy brings exaltation in heaven, has more than 10,000 followers who consider Jeffs to be God's spokesman on Earth. He spent years evading arrest — crisscrossing the country as a fugitive who eventually made the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list before his capture in 2006, said lead prosecutor Eric Nichols. Several former members of the church have testified that Jeffs ruled the group with a heavy and abusive hand. Jeffs also allegedly excommunicated 60 church members he saw as a threat to his leadership, breaking up 300 families while stripping them of property and "reassigning" wives and children. In an audiotape played during the sentencing phase, Jeffs was heard softly telling five young girls to "set aside all your inhibitions" as he gave them instructions on how to please him sexually. Jeffs is heard telling the girls that what "the five of you are about to do is important." Prosecutors suggested that the polygamist leader told the girls they needed to have sex with him — in what Jeffs called "heavenly" or "celestial" sessions — in order to atone for sins in his community. Several times in his journals, Jeffs wrote of
Wealthy duchess gives fortune away to marry It's the stuff of a soap opera starring European nobles: at age 85, one of Spain's richest and most title-laden women wants to wed a civil servant young enough to be her son. To placate her six wary children, she's signed over to them palatial chunks of her wealth. She's a distant relative of Queen Elizabeth and Winston Churchill and you have to take a deep breath just to pronounce her name: Maria del Rosario Cayetana Alfonsa Victoria Eugenia Francisca Fitz-James Stuart y de Silva. The twice-married matriarch's supreme title is Duchess of Alba, but she has more than 40 others. Her 60-year-old beau is a man named Alfonso Diez, who works for the Spanish social security administration. They first met decades ago because her then husband — No. 2 — was friends with Diez's brother, an antiques dealer, and after running into each at a movie theater about three years ago the duchess and Diez eventually started dating. The Duchess of Alba said in a rare radio interview early this year that she wanted to marry Diez but her children — five men and a woman — were against it. She denied any suggestion Diez was a gold-digger. "Alfonso does not want anything. He has renounced everything," she told COPE radio. "All he wants is me." Last month the duchess and her children went to a notary in Madrid and she registered them to be owners of palaces, castles and other property around Spain upon her death, according to widespread Spanish press reports. For now, though, she will retain control of the fortune of the more than 500-year-old
Duchess of Alba, Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart and Alfonso Diez
House of Alba. The early divvying up of most of the vast family pie appears to have appeased her children at least somewhat. Her youngest son, Cayetano Martinez de Irujo, age 48, said last week of his mother's desire to marry Diez: "We have found the solution for her to be able to do it." He said he and his siblings remained unenthused, however, about the idea of nuptials. "If in the end my mother decides to get married, we will attend even though we still do not agree," Martinez de Irujo told the newspaper El Mundo. Another newspaper, El Pais, said estimates of the duchess' wealth — it includes paintings by Goya and Velazquez and a first edition copy of Cervantes' "Don Quixote" — range widely from euro600 million ($856 million) to euro3.5 billion ($5 billion).
God telling him to take more and more young girls as brides "who can be worked with and easily taught." FBI agent John Broadway testified that fathers who gave their young daughters to Jeffs were rewarded with young brides of their own. Girls who proved reluctant to have sex with Jeffs were sent away, according to excerpts from Jeffs' journals that prosecutors showed to the jury. Police raided the group's remote West Texas ranch in April 2008, finding women dressed in frontierstyle dresses and hairdos from the 19th century as well as seeing underage girls who were clearly pregnant. The call to an abuse hotline that spurred the raid turned out to be a hoax, and more than 400 children who had been placed in protective custody were eventually returned to their families. Jeffs is the eighth FLDS man convicted since the raid on Yearning For Zion, in the town of Eldorado, 45 miles south of San Angelo. Previous sentences ranged from six to 75 years in prison. The church's traditional headquarters is along the UtahArizona border, but it established the Texas compound in 2004. Jeffs once faced criminal charges in Arizona and was convicted of accessory to rape in Utah in 2007. But that was overturned by the state Supreme Court and he was extradited to Texas in December.
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UK Treasury chief seeks to calm slow growth fears Britain's Treasury chief warned Thursday that the global economy is facing its most dangerous time since the banking crisis of 2008, acknowledging that the recovery will be take longer — and be harder — than previously anticipated. George Osborne told British lawmakers that growth will be hampered by a "huge overhang of debt." "Markets are waking up to this fact and that is what makes this the most dangerous time for the global economy since 2008," he said. "I think we should be realistic about that. I think we should set our expectations accordingly." Osborne sought to assure lawmakers that Britain is prepared to deal with any new crisis in the
britain's treasury chief, George osborne
European banking sector and urged the eurozone to consider issuing bonds
jointly to help sort out its debt crisis. Though Britain is not part of the eurozone, its economy is hugely dependent on what goes on there, not least through its banking system. "Solutions such as eurobonds or other forms of guarantees now require serious consideration," Osborne said as part of remarks to legislators at an emergency session of the House of Commons called in response to rioting across England. "And they must be matched by much more effective economic governance in the eurozone to ensure fiscal responsibility is hard wired into the system," he added. Osborne defended his plan to cut 80 billion pounds ($130 billion) from government spending through 2015, which will see public sector jobs lost
US credit downgraded WASHINGTON — The United States has lost its sterling credit rating from Standard & Poor's. Standard & Poor’s announced last Friday night that it has downgraded the U.S. credit rating for the first time since granting it in 1917, dealing a symbolic blow to the world’s economic superpower in what was a sharply worded critique of the American political system. The drop in the rating by one notch to AAplus was telegraphed as a possibility back in April. The three main credit agencies, which also include Moody's Investor Service and Fitch, had warned during the budget fight that if Congress did not cut spending far enough, the country faced a downgrade. Moody's said it was keeping its AAA rating on the nation's debt, but that it might still lower it. Lowering the nation’s rating to one notch below AAA, the credit rating company said “political brinkmanship” in the debate over the debt had made the U.S. government’s ability to manage its finances “less stable, less effective and less predictable.” It said the bipartisan agreement reached this week to find at least $2.1 trillion in budget savings “fell short” of what was necessary to tame the nation’s debt over time and predicted that leaders would not be likely to achieve more savings in the future. It’s always possible the rating will come back, but we don’t think it’s coming back anytime soon,” said David Beers, head of S&P’s government debt rating unit. The decision came after a day of furious back-and-forth debate between the Obama administration and S&P. Treasury Department officials fought back hard, arguing that the firm’s political analysis was flawed and that it had made a numerical error in a draft of its downgrade report that overstated the deficit over 10 years by $2 trillion. Officials had reviewed the draft earlier in the day. “A judgment flawed by a $2 trillion error speaks for itself,” a Treasury spokesman said Friday night.
The downgrade to AA+ will push the global financial markets into uncharted territory after a volatile week fueled by concerns over a worsening debt crisis in Europe and a faltering economy in the United States. The AAA rating has made the U.S. Treasury bond one of the world’s safest investments — and has helped the nation borrow at extraordinarily cheap rates to finance its government operations, including two wars and an expensive social safety net for retirees. Treasury bonds have also been a stalwart of stability amid the economic upheaval of the past few years. The nation has had a AAA rating for 70 years. Analysts say that, over time, the downgrade could push up borrowing costs for the U.S. government, costing taxpayers tens of billions of dollars a year. It could also drive up interest rates for consumers and companies seeking mortgages, credit cards and business loans. A downgrade could also have a cascading series of effects on states and localities, including nearly all of those in the Washington metro area. These governments could lose their AAA credit ratings as well, potentially raising the cost of borrowing for schools, roads and parks. But the exact effects of the downgrade won’t be known until at least Sunday night, when Asian markets open, and perhaps not fully grasped for months. Analysts say the initial effect on the markets could be modest because they have been anticipating an S&P downgrade for weeks. Federal officials are also examining the impact of a downgrade in large but esoteric financial markets where U.S. government bonds serve an extremely important function. They were generally confident that markets would hold up but were closely monitoring the situation. Regulators said that the downgrade would not affect how banking rules treat Treasury bonds — as risk-free assets.
and welfare programs slashed. Some politicians, including London mayor Boris Johnson — a member of Osborne's Conservative Party — question cuts to police numbers being made under the austerity package. The country's police inspection service has said the cuts will mean 16,000 fewer police officers by 2015. Osborne's comments came in the wake of a warning from Bank of England governor Mervyn King that British economic growth will be only 1.4 percent this year, down from the previous forecast of 1.8 percent. "There are a number of headwinds to world and domestic growth over the forecast period, not least the private and public debt overhang," King said. "And these headwinds are becoming stronger by the day."
iPad rivals have better chance in euroPe Would-be rivals to Apple's iPad have more of a chance in Europe than they do in the United States, but they need to cut prices fast to grasp the opportunity, IT research firm Forrester said on Tuesday. Apple's relatively small retail presence in Europe -with 52 stores compared with 238 in the United States -offers a chance to the likes of Samsung, Acer and Research in Motion, Forrester said. But their prices cannot yet compete with Apple, which has far larger scale in the tablet market and an efficient supply chain. Forrester said emerging challengers from China and Taiwan would likely step in soon with cheaper offerings. "There is this opportunity for iPad challengers, but the competition is very fragmented. Competing with Apple will require a different approach from what we've seen so far," said analyst Sarah Rotman Epps, the author of the Forrester report. Apple still has the tablet-computer market almost to itself after launching the iPad a year and a half ago. It has sold close to 30 million iPads, whose prices start at about $500. Forrester expects Apple to sell 80 percent of all consumer tablets in the United States and 70 percent in Europe this year. It expects 2011 worldwide tablet sales to reach 48 million units, with half of those sold in the United States, 30 percent in Europe, 15 percent in Asia and 5 percent in Latin America. Epps said local content and good retail outlets, along with lower prices, were essential to succeed against Apple. "A competitor to Apple would have to put together the right content, the right price and the right channel strategy. There isn't anyone that has all three," she said. Tablets are on sale in Europe from Acer, Archos, Asus, HP, Motorola, BlackBerry maker Research in Motion, Samsung and Toshiba. "The newer generation of iPad challengers, such as the 10-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Acer Iconia Tab, are getting better reception, but they're still at a disadvantage to Apple in terms of channel strategy." Forrester surveyed almost 14,000 online adult consumers in France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Britain, and also interviewed product strategists from manufacturers, telecommunications operators and retailers. Between 2 percent and 7 percent of the consumers surveyed, depending on the country, said they owned a tablet, and a further 10 percent to 14 percent said they were interested in buying one.
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No double-dip recession but Europe a worry: Greenspan WASHINGTON - Former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan on Sunday downplayed the risk of a double-dip recession in the United States, saying its domestic economy was in better shape compared to its European peers. A double-dip recession "depends on Europe, not the United States," Greenspan told NBC television's "Meet the Press." "The United States was actually doing relatively well -sluggish, but going forward -- until Italy ran into trouble." The U.S. economy stumbled badly in the first half of 2011 and came dangerously close to contracting in the January-March period, raising fears that the economy was sliding back into recession. Those fears were calmed somewhat last week when a debt deal was agreed before the August 2 deadline as well as data showing that employers added 117,000 jobs in July. But Standard & Poor's downgrade of the country's top-notch "AAA" credit rating late on Friday to "AA+" could hurt the recovery. "With all of this bickering going on, the economy is slowing down,"
former federal reserve chairman alan Greenspan
Greenspan said. "You can see it in all the data. I don't see a double-dip, but I do see it slowing down." Europe, which buys a quarter of U.S. exports and houses the operations of many American companies, would determine the course of the U.S. economy's recovery, Greenspan said. European leaders are struggling to contain a sovereign debt crisis, which has spread to Italy, the euro zone's third-largest economy, and is causing
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turmoil in global financial markets. Greenspan said Italy's troubles could contribute to destabilizing the European and U.S. economies. "When Italy showed signs of significant weakness in selling its bonds ... it created a massive problem within Europe because Italy is a very large country that ... indeed cannot be bailed out," he said. "And that's what's causing our problem." Greenspan said despite the S&P downgrade, U.S. Treasury bonds, unlike Italian bonds, were still a safe investment. "This is not an issue of credit rating. The United States can pay any
debt it has because it can always print money to do that. There's zero probability of default," he said. "What I think the S&P (downgrade) did was to hit a nerve. ... It's hit the self-esteem of the United States, the psyche. And it's having a much profounder effect than I conceived could happen." Markets in the Gulf region and in Israel, among the first to trade since the U.S. credit downgrading, tumbled on Sunday amid worries the U.S. downgrade and European debt woes may trigger another global downturn. Greenspan said the same was likely to happen worldwide when global markets open on Monday.
US decline leaveS china tipped aS next economic SUperpower while preSSUre on US bondS iS Set to affect eUrozone criSiS When India joined China in criticising the United States' chaotic handling of its hefty debts this weekend, describing the challenges facing the White House as "grave", it was the clearest indication yet that the old order had been swept away. Until recently the US was the unassailable economic superpower, and the prospect of the White House being bossed about by the bond markets – let alone by Beijing or New Delhi – was unthinkable. But following a week when an estimated $3tn (£1.8tn) was wiped off the value of world shares, Friday's downgrade of America's cherished AAA rating to AA+ by Standard & Poor's is set to cause more turmoil on global markets and potentially jeopardise Europe's attempts to solve its own financial crisis. With currency markets, particularly the dollar, expected to come under pressure, and US bond yields almost certain to rise, this could have the knock-on effect of raising borrowing costs in the eurozone at a time when Spanish and Italian bonds in particular have seen yields soar. This could prove to be a tipping point for the transfer of global power from the US to its great rival China, even though the fortunes of Asia and the west are inextricably linked. The boom of the past two decades in the US, the UK and much of Europe came at the expense of an extraordinary growth in borrowing, much of it from the Chinese and other fast-growing Asian economies, which were happy to keep piling up Treasury bills and buying blue-chip companies, so long as the billions of dollars they spent were recycled into cheap consumer goods. At the height of the credit crunch, it seemed both lenders and borrowers were finally getting their comeuppance, but as the Bank of England governor, Mervyn King,
has repeatedly pointed out in the past 12 months, the "global imbalances" that led to the crisis – the vast trade deficits and debts – never went away. Gerard Lyons, chief economist at Standard Chartered, blames the turmoil of recent days on a combination of "ineffective policymakers, excitable markets and a realisation that the recovery is going to be very slow in the west". David Blanchflower, a former member of the Bank of England's monetary policy committee, went further: "What we've seen is a oncein-100-years financial crisis that will take 20 years to adjust to." As for the US itself, Alan Greenspan, the former Federal Reserve chairman, said on NBC that the downgrade was having a salutary effect on the public as well as on policymakers. He said: "It gave the sense there is something basically bad going on. And it's hit the selfesteem of the United States, the psyche." But there is little glee in China about the west's travails. Beijing has repeatedly expressed concern about the mounting US debt burden and the reliance of the global economy on the mighty dollar. Now, the gloves are finally off. The official news agency has accused the US of "debt addiction" and insisted that, as its largest creditor, China now "has every right to demand the United States address its structural debt problem and ensure the safety of China's dollar assets". The Chinese economist Sun Lijian, in a commentary for the People's Daily, said: "The biggest victims [of the downgrade] may not be the United States itself, but other countries that have depended on external demand to amass national wealth – be they Asian nations that depend on exporting goods, or nations in Latin America and the Middle East, as well as Russia, that
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Jamaican sprinter Steve Mullings tests positive for drugs The future of Jamaican sprinter Steve Mullings now hangs in the balance after revelations that he tested positive for a masking agent, two weeks before the start of the IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Daegu, South Korea. Mullings now faces a minimum ban of four years and could be removed from the sport for life. According to the Jamaica Gleaner, it is understood that the results of a test carried out by the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission during the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA)/Supreme Ventures National Senior Championships, held between June 23 and 26 this year, showed the presence of the substance, which is meant to conceal the existence of banned substances or illegal drugs,
such as anabolic steroids or stimulants. Several efforts to contact the sprinter and his agent John Regis proved futile. The news comes just over a week before the team departs for a oneweek camp in Gyeonasan, South Korea. The team is also set to be named next week. Mullings previously failed a drug test during qualification for the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, after higher-than-normal levels of testosterone were found in his system. As a result, he was slapped with a two-year ban and his results between the middle of 2004 and 2005 were wiped from the records. Failing a reversal, this latest incident could effectively mean the end of his international career.
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The athlete has reportedly been notified and will now have to face a disciplinary hearing, effectively ruling him out of the championships in Daegu, where he was seen as a strong medal contender in the 100m and 200m. Mullings was also expected to feature on Jamaica's 4x100m relay team. President of the JAAA, Howard Aris, was unable to comment and said at press time that he had received no official notification. Executive director of the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission, Dr Patrece Charles Freeman, also declined to comment on the matter. In all doping cases, the athlete has the right to a hearing of their case before the relevant disciplinary body or tribunal. The athlete must confirm in writing, within 14 days of notification, that they would like a hearing, otherwise it is assumed that the athlete accepts that a violation has occurred. The hearing before a tribunal must be held within two months from the date of notification to the athlete. The athlete has the right to legal counsel and to call witnesses. The decision of the tribunal will be sent to the world's governing body, the IAAF. Reimpose suspension If the IAAF does not agree with the sanction, the case will be reviewed by the IAAF Doping Review Board, which decides whether it appeals to the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS); if so, it may reimpose suspension. The athlete also has a right of appeal to CAS.
Steve Mullings
The news comes as another blow to Jamaican track and field after recent scandals, particularly shortly before the last IAAF World Championships held in Berlin, Germany, in 2009. Back then, five athletes tested positive for a stimulant at the national championships. The athletes were served with three-month suspensions and allowed to resume their careers. Last year, World and Olympic 100-metre champion Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce tested positive for the painkiller Oxycodone and was subsequently banned for six months. Her ban ended in January this year.
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London burning undermines image ahead of Olympics Riots across London this week could not have come at a worse time for a country preparing to welcome millions of visitors to the Olympics next summer and struggling to attract investment as its economy falters. Images flashed around the world of burning buildings, looters ransacking shops and police fighting with masked gangs risk damaging Britain's reputation as a place to visit and do business, analysts and business leaders said on Tuesday. Crisis management expert Alex Woolfall said it was crucial that the police and government end the rioting quickly to avoid causing lasting damage to the perception of Britain overseas. "If the story becomes 'one week of summer madness', then it will come and go and people will move on," said Woolfall, an executive at public relations company Porter Novelli. "But if this drags on, or worse, that it looks like there is a genuine inability to stop it, then that really does start to change perceptions," he said, adding that the danger lay in worries building about security and whether the country had enough police. The British Retail Consortium, a trade body which represents 90 percent of stores, said the rioting sent an "appalling message" to people at home and abroad. "It will put people from other parts of the UK, and from abroad, off going
Police and looters clashed during the recent riots. Here a group of officers look on as their fellow officers confront rioters
to London in the medium term," said a spokesman. Any decline in tourists' spending would be hard on British retailers at a time of low consumer confidence and public spending cuts. Britain's economy barely grew in the second quarter following six months of stagnation. "The capital's firms (are) already bearing the heavy cost of the continuing economic turmoil," said Colin Stanbridge, chief executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a business lobby group. "At the peak of the tourist season and with only a year to go until the London 2012 Games, this really isn't the
image we want to present to the world." Wyn Grant, politics professor at Warwick University, said negative headlines around the world -- which declared "Britain's Burning" and "War Zone London" -- may cause short-term harm. "It gives the impression of a city which is very unsafe for people to visit," he said. Only last month, tourism chiefs announced that the world spotlight was on Britain before the Games, with VisitBritain, the state tourism body, saying it was a perfect time to show off Britain's history, culture and the "warmth of our welcome."
The marketing push was buoyed by the excitement and goodwill surrounding the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton in April. Tourism supports around one in 12 British jobs -- nearly three million people either directly or indirectly -and makes up about 9 percent of GDP, VisitBritain says. The organization sought to downplay the impact of the violence. "In the year of the major riots in France, French tourism was resilient and I think that will be the same in Britain," Patricia Yates, a director at VisitBritain, told Reuters. "If the incidents we have seen on our televisions are stopped, I think we will recover very quickly." But Germany issued a travel advisory for Britain, posting on the foreign ministry's website: "Travelers are advised to be especially careful and to pull out at the first signs of riots, and follow instructions of security forces." And worries about Britain's reputation may linger well after the broken glass and bricks are cleared from the streets. "I'm from Australia and was getting calls last night," said Australian Julie Wieczorek, who lives in Clapham, an upmarket neighborhood that saw hours of disorder. "People have heard the word riots and they'll think twice about coming here."
Cuba-to-Florida Quest Real Madrid signs a 7 year old Defeats Swimmer at 61 MIAMI — Three miles off Havana on Sunday evening, the Florida Straits were still glasslike when the 61-year-old marathon swimmer Diana Nyad felt her right shoulder seize up with pain. But she kept swimming. At 1:30 p.m. Monday, with the ocean swells now buffeting her, Ms. Nyad was struck by an asthma attack, her first ever, and struggled to breathe. But she kept swimming. Nearly twelve hours later, halfway between Cuba and her destination of Key West, Fla., Ms. Nyad was treading water when she began vomiting. She then reluctantly allowed herself to be pulled aboard a support boat named the Bellissimo, where she was quickly wrapped in blankets. After swimming nearly 29 hours, Ms. Nyad abandoned her quest to complete the 60-hour, 103-mile journey, spread across three days, between Cuba and the United States. “It was my decision to stop and nobody else’s,” Ms. Nyad said during a phone interview Tuesday morning moments after arriving at a Key West marina. “I’m deeply grieved and disappointed, but I can hold my head up high. We pictured that moment of me crawling up on that Key West shore. We knew it was my year and my time, even at 61.” She added, “It was a fairy tale, but the fairy tale didn’t come true.” Her doctor, Michael Broder, said Ms. Nyad had not suffered from dehydration but was violently vomiting when she was hoisted out of the water. “Physically, she is exhausted and mentally she is exhausted,” Dr. Broder said. “Considering what she has been through, she looks pretty good.” Ms. Nyad said she had no regrets. She had concluded that the combination of her injured shoulder and the asthma attack made continuing impossible. “It was over, I knew it,” she said. “My body was at the absolute very end. Willpower wasn’t a part of it anymore.”
First graders might dream of being recruited by Real Madrid when they grow up. But some are too cool to wait. Leonel Angel Coira, a soccer prodigy from Argentina, has been signed by the Spanish club at the astonishing young age of 7. He will begin training on Sept. 6, the team's spokesman, Juan Tapiador, told the Associated Press. But it is yet to be seen whether Coira is the next Lionel Messi, the boy's idol and compatriot with whom he shares the nickname "Leo." He even sports a similar floppy hairstyle. Slightly awkward, though, is that Messi is the star of Real Madrid's biggest rival FC Barcelona. But Coira has told Spanish sports daily Ole that heroes aside, his dream is to be on Real Madrid's first team. Leonel Angel Coira For now, his contract is with Real Madrid's youngest team, which is made up of players who are mostly under nine; it's not unusual for professional clubs to sign young players to participate in their youth academies. Real Madrid's scouts are constantly on the lookout for talent, although only a fraction of the chosen children turn pro. Coira has nearly a decade to prove himself before he is eligible to play professionally when he turns 16. The boy's father, Miguel Coira, told AP that his family will receive no financial compensation from the club. "The contract is for one year and if everything works out it can be renewed for another," he said. All youth squad members are assessed yearly for development to determine whether each should continue.
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Spanish football players threaten strike Madrid, Spain -- Football players from Spain's top two divisions vowed to go on strike at the start of the season if the team owners don't provide "guarantees" that hundreds of players who are owed back wages are actually paid, the players association announced on Thursday. "We're not asking for more money. We're just asking to be paid what's due," Juanjo Montener, spokesman for the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE) told CNN. Association leaders, flanked by some of Spain's top football stars, such as Real Madrid goalie Iker Casillas and FC Barcelona defender Carles Puyol, held a news conference at a central Madrid hotel, vowing to strike but leaving the door open to further talks to try to resolve the dispute before the season opener scheduled for August 20. But the Professional Football League (LFP), representing the clubs in first and second division football, issued a statement soon after saying it "doesn't understand" the players' call to strike. The club owners said they had been negotiating in "good faith" with the players association and that club owners on August 3 established a new "guarantee fund" that would "guarantee some important quantities of the salaries of players affected" by club bankruptcy proceedings.
Montener said 22 Spanish football clubs in first and second division have had financial problems serious enough to involve bankruptcy or receivership proceedings. He said 300 players have filed complaints that they are owed back wages. Spain's first division "Liga" is among the best in the world, and top players from South America and elsewhere in Europe often have lucrative contracts here. FC Barcelona is currently considered the best club team in the world, having won last May its second Champions League title in the past three years, again beating Manchester United for that title. Real Madrid is a perennial powerhouse and a potent global brand. But below that top tier, it's a different story for many other clubs. Spanish media have reported for months about some other first division and many second division teams that have struggled to avoid financial red ink. A three-year collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players expired recently and negotiations since then have been focused on a new deal. The strike call by the players comes as Spain continues to be mired in a deep economic crisis, with 21 percent unemployment overall and a jobless rate of about 43 percent for young people. The Socialist government has called for early elections, scheduled for November.
WORLD SPORTS
Mendis records best figures in t20 internationals KANDY, Sri Lanka- Spinner Ajantha Mendis produced the best figures in Twenty20 internationals on Monday to bowl Sri Lanka to an eight-run win over Australia at the Pallakele Stadium and a 2-0 series win. Mendis bemused the Australian batsman to finish with six for 16 off four overs, including a maiden. He is the first bowler to take six wickets in the shortest form of the game. Australia did well to contain Sri Lanka to a total of 157-9 but were restricted themselves to 149-9 after Shane Watson had got them off to a flying start with 57 off 24 balls including five sixes and six fours. Watson and David Warner (16) put on 71 for the first wicket before an inspired piece of fielding by Angelo Mathews on the boundary line to dismiss Warner started a sensational Australian collapse. Mathews took the catch and, before stepping over the boundary, threw the ball to Mahela Jayawardene 30 metres away to give Mendis the first of his six wickets. Australia slid to 113-6 but skipper Cameron White kept their hopes alive with 39 off 33 balls before he fell in the final over with Australia needing 14 for victory. Sri Lanka's innings was held together by a superb knock of 86 off 64 balls with one six and 12 fours by Mahela Jayawardene. John Hastings put a brake on the Sri Lankan run rate by grabbing three wickets for 14 runs as Sri Lanka lost six wickets for 36 runs in the last six overs. Sri Lanka captain Tillakaratne Dilshan said Mathews' moment of brilliance had turned the match. "We knew one or two wickets and we could put pressure on them. We were hanging in, and waiting for a breakthrough," he said.
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