VOLUME 11 ISSUE 32 by The SUN Newspaper

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

Website: www.suntci.com

VOLUME 11 - NO. 32

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UK REJECTS CHANGES TO TCI CONSTITUTION By Charvis Ferguson

he United Kingdom (UK) Government has rejected amendments to the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution, sparking bi-partisan outrage in the House of Assembly and evoking a stinging rebuke from the Speaker. In a letter to TCI Governor Peter Beckingham, British Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Rt. Hon. Grant Shapps, MP, said he concluded that to amend the constitution in ways proposed by the Constitutional Review Committee would “risk the hard won progress that was made” in the Turks and Caicos Islands in recent times. “I do not believe that this is a risk that we can afford to take,” Shapps said in his letter, which was read to the House of Assembly by Speaker Hon. Robert Hall on August 17th, 2015. The Terms of Reference of the Committee were, among other things, to review the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and hold consultations with the public and interested groups, and make recommendations for Constitutional changes to be debated and ratified by the House for onward submission to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Shapps’ letter continued, “I am grateful for the diligence for which the committee set about its work and would like to thank individual members of the committee for the time they spent researching and compiling this review. I noted the arrangements that were

The highly anticipated lobster season began on August 15th and fisherman eagerly awaited the first catch of the season. The largest reported catch on Providenciales was 1,500 lbs of lobster and the fishing capital of Turks and Caicos Islands – South Caicos - reported its largest catch to be an astounding 1,800 lbs of lobster. made to the public consultation meetings that attracted two hundred and sixty nine people alongside the media coverage that highlighted the committee’s work. In addition, I noted that a number of private meetings and written submissions helped to inform the committee’s recommendations.” Members of the Constitutional Review Committee were: (i) Hon. Akeirra Missick – Deputy Premier and Minister of

Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services; (ii) Hon. Ricardo D. Gardiner – Minister of Border Control and Labour;(iii) Hon. Sharlene L. Robinson – Leader of the Opposition;(iv) Hon. Sean R. Astwood – Member of the House of Assembly for the District of Five Cays, Providenciales; (v) Mr. Carlos W. Simons – Q.C. Attorney at Law; (vi) Mr. Ashwood L. Forbes – Attorney at Law and Chairman, Mr. Daniel

Malcolm. He added: “I agree with the committee that we need to move on from the past, but that does not mean we should forget the lessons learnt. One of the key lessons was the need to put in a series of robust checks and balances to ensure that TCI meets internationally recognized standards of good governance, the rule of law and sound financial management.” “The present constitution and related legislation have been and continue to be important instruments to deliver positive change in the TCI. The turnaround in TCI’s economy over recent years has been remarkable. Of course, it was driven in part by increasing tourist numbers, but it is also a result to the hard work that is done to reframe this constitution and to put in place the measures highlighted above.” “I appreciate that this has not been an easy process, however the results speak

for themselves. Governance continues to improve, TCI’s international image and reputation continues to improve and the territory presents a much more investor friendly environment. I am confident that the stability and certainty provided by the constitution will prove invaluable. As TCI seeks further investments in the months and years ahead, our strategy is to ensure that constitutional arrangements work effectively to promote the best interest of the territories and of the UK. The constitution in its existing form provides a robust platform to deliver that strategy. “The UK Government recognizes that it is importance to reflect on the constitutional relationship, that is why the work of this committee is so important and we will ensure that a dialogue on these issues is sustained with TCI and the overseas territories that wish to engage.” Continued on Page 2

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LOCAL NEWS

UK REJECTS CHANGESTO TCI CONSTITUTION

Continued from page -1 `This letter has garnered passionate responses from the Hon. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing as well as the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Sharlene Cartwright – Robison; and both parties aim to fight against the rejection of the constitution amendments. SPEAKER ‘TIRED OF PEOPLE PEEING ON MY FOOT ’

Speaker Hall, who wrote a formal response to the Governor, was particularly vocal in telling the Turks and Caicos Islands to stand up again the oppression of the British Government. Hon. Hall stated: “I must say though that while I am not surprised, I am disappointed in the response. Despite my disappointment, I am confident that these arms will continue to experience

policy changes; there is yet a bright future ahead. One can stand on the seashore and marvel at waves, but one cannot turn back the tide.” Hon. Hall spoke directly to the House of Assembly saying, “Hon. Members, the response received from the United Kingdom to the deliberations of this House, embodied in the matters sent to the UK pertaining the constitution review committee. I find it quite insulting and a slap in the face, that in this day and time, a couple of gentlemen would sit in London and basically tell us, what is good for us.” Hon. Hall continued, “I am literally tired of people peeing on my foot making me think it is rain. I am reminded of the saying the more things change the more they remain the same. When I was about 18 years old, going to school

in Jamaica, I wrote the then calling for time and dialogue. saying, “Mistakes are made, Administrator, Wayne Wright, But it is coming to the stage.” that happens everywhere. I complaining about the state Hall said he recently see even the United Kingdom, of affairs in these islands and listened to Rev. Hamilton as Sir Edward Heath is in the asking him to use his office he preached an Emancipation grave, but even now, we’re still to do all he could for these Day Service and a few words investigating about his sexual islands. He wrote me back stayed in his mind when the wrong doings. And for those of and I was happy and I never pastor said, “God has given you who don’t recall, he was forgot the words. I told him us the spirit of power and we a former Prime Minister of of my plans to go to Teacher’s must do away with the spirit the United Kingdom and you College, to come back to teach of fear and embrace the spirit know about all the scandals and then go into politics. He of power.” … so they must not play as if wrote me back and said, ‘it’s The Speaker added: they are all perfect and the nice to know an islander like “You cannot continue to have rest of us have been so corrupt. you is off studying and want somebody in Waterloo and I detest that kind of thing and to be a teacher, we welcome have no problems with the telling me about learn from you back as a teacher but holder of the office and so the lesson of the past … but suggest, you leave politics for often concerned about how we cannot continue to hold those who are qualified to do things are run. We cannot on to the past if we are going so’. “Many years later, this be content for somebody in to embrace the future. Turks letter is telling us the same England, who do not know us and Caicos, you better stand thing. And this is not about and in some cases do not even up together, otherwise you’re PDM, PNP or PDA for the come down here, to get a pulse going to fall individually. Start matter, this is about Turks or the feeling to see something planning now more than ever and Caicos and so I’m going on the ground and constantly before to pull down the Union to suggest, because I’m one tell us how we must live in our Jack, whatever you design of those who has always been own country.” Turks and Caicos, you’ve got cautious with regards to our Hon. Hall addressed to move ahead.” approach for independence past Government mistakes by

Premier says British denial of Constitution change is a “slap in the face of our people” Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing has expressed his angst about the British Government’s decision to deny the Turks and Caicos Islands to make changes to the Constitution that would pave the way for selfdetermination. Speaking in the House of Assembly on Monday, August 17th, in a response to the British Government’s letter which rejected recommendations for change, the Premier said: “I stand flabbergasted over the audacity of the British Government, to see it in their wisdom to think that they can sit up in Whitehall (in London) and send a letter to Waterloo (Governor’s residence in Grand Turk), totally denying the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the right to self-determination.” He continued, “Mr. Speaker, the very changes, the

very recommendations in that constitutional reform report through this house represents the people and is, in itself, is a form of selfdetermination. “ The Premier made it clear that the Turks and Caicos Islands are well on the way to independence however, the recent letters from the British Government suggests that residents of the Turks and Caicos do not fully support the Turks and Caicos Government’s view on selfdetermination. “There are much bigger battles when it comes to constitutional changes that we have to fight for the ultimate step towards independence,” the Premier added. “Mr. Speaker, the very tone of the letter and some of the insinuations and interpretations from that letter made, [suggests] that there

TCI Middle School PO Box 1139, 48 Richmond Hill Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Tel 649 231 1519 Email: principal@tcimiddleschool.com TCI Middle School requires for September 2015 a full time teacher for this newly developed school This vacancy provides the opportunity for the suitable candidate to be instrumental in the strategic management of the school. Full time teacher –.Form Tutor for Yr. 7 or 8, with responsibility for teaching specialist subjects to Yr. 7,- Yr 11 Science/English or Maths as a subject is preferable but please state other specialisms.. An exciting opportunity to be part of developing a new school on the island, leading it through IGCSE curriculum.. -

Applicants will need to be dynamic, enthusiastic and creative teachers; have an excellent working knowledge of the National Curriculum for England and Wales Guidelines and have UK Qualified Teacher Status with at least 2 years teaching experience. They should be flexible and adaptable in their approach to learning and have expertise in one or more of the subject areas. The initial teaching contract will be for a period of two years. Salary will be negotiable according to experience. Closing date – 24th August 2015 Please Email CV or letter of application with a recent photograph and contact phone number together with the names and phone numbers of referees to: Mark Dunbavand at the above address.

was a poor turn out to the meetings. Because of this, recommendations were made that suggest that we not have the support of the people of this country. Mr. Speaker, that is false.” Over the past years, the talks of independence has had both positive and negative feedback from the residents in Turks and Caicos Island, however Hon. Dr. Ewing said that with support from the government, the TCI will stand together. He added, “Mr. Speaker, I am sure that the people, when they know that this House represents them, the entire Turks and Caicos stands on matters like that. The entire Turks and Caicos will stand behind the decisions of this House.” The Hon. Premier expressed his shock, as the British seemed apprehensive in allowing the Turks and Caicos Government to make necessary changes to the Constitution for the development of the nation and added that British bureaucracy is damaging the country for future investment. Ewing said, “We in this country believe in good governance. We believe in the rule of law, We believe in sound financial management … Mr. Speaker, it had nothing to do with the constitution the British Government put in place. It had more to do with a number of things. The return of the global economy, it had to do with Turks and Caicos being the number one place that persons want to come to naturally, as we promote Turks and Caicos. It had to do with the government having the will, to grow this country, to grow this economy and create policies – even against all odds. Mr. Speaker, and I can tell you one the thing, that all the last Constitution did was to create so much bureaucracy, that this is becoming one of the most unfriendly, investor friendly places, because it’s so much bureaucracy.” Premier Ewing explained: “When I have to sit and see a development agreement is taking years to develop because of certain constitutional framework [I think], that is not investor friendly. Those people can take their money and go elsewhere and some of them probably did already.” He added, “So Mr. Speaker,

I do not buy, whatsoever, one piece of that letter which regards to the British words talking about investor confidence and rule of law and sound financial management and good governance. We as a people, we as members of this assembly, cannot accept and will not accept the UK’s outright denial of constitutional amendment.” Hon. Dr. Ewing called on the support of all members of the House of Assembly to stand up against the decision made by the British Government and made the claim that Turks and Caicos Islanders have the right to be heard. He said, “Mr. Speaker, so I am calling and I am sure that the Leader of the Opposition and the Opposition members in this House and the other members of this House would agree that we should, assemble a bi-partisan team to present to the United Kingdom Government, for whatever it’s worth, to present to them in person. [Therefore], they can see the wisdom in accepting the recommendation from this House of Assembly. In regards to creating a bi-partisan team to repeal the denial of recommendations, Hon. Dr. Ewing said, “Mr. Speaker, this is the first steps and as you say, Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus, I say, Stand Up Stand Up for Turks and Caicos. In conclusion, the Premier made it clear that the Turks and Caicos Government will stand up against the British’s denial of the recommendations made by TCIG and he fully questions the British government’s future intentions for the Turks and Caicos Islands. He said, “Mr. Speaker, I can see this is the beginning of a battle and sometimes I really wonder whether or not the British Government really wants us to go independent. Because little things like these, all they do is stir up within our people and motivate our people to fight even more for what they deserve. The right to be heard, the right to self-determination. So maybe this is what they really want that is all I can say. Because I can see that particular letter and the outright denial of some simple recommendations is a slap in the face to our people and they will fight back and we will fight back.”

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Houses changes requirements for Belongership by marriage

By Todeline Defralien

People who have been married to a Belonger for five years prior to August 13th, 2012, will not have to wait for ten years before they apply for Belongership. Minister of Immigration and Border Control Hon. Donhue Gardiner told the House of Assembly on August 17th, 2015, that persons who were married before the change of law on August 13, 2012, can benefit from the law as it was on that date. This is the result of an amendment to the Immigration Bill which means that those persons will only be required to be married to and living with an Islander spouse for 5 years ending with the date of his or her application for Islander status, whereas everyone who would have gotten married on or after August 13, 2012, would have to continue to

law as it was at wait the 10 years, the time that they as prescribed in the were married? 2012 amendment. That is, that they “ M r . needed to have Speaker it is our been married for view that when the a period of five 2012 legislation years or should came into effect it they now be was retroactive and required to be detrimental in some married for ten cases to the families years which is here who may have the law that took been married for five years or four years, effect after they would have been and sometimes even married as of the more, if they had not 13th of August on that date made an 2012.” application for the Minister of Immigration He continued grant of TCI status,” Hon. Donhue Gardiner “My submission Hon. Gardiner said. “And the question Mr. Speaker really is, ‘should someone who is would be that persons who were married before the change in law married and who have lived together should they be able to apply under the with each other as husband and

wife and would have been married for at least certainly before the 2012 amendment came into effect, those persons should be captured by the five year rule. Persons who were married after that, then they should perhaps be captured by whatever rule was in effect on the day that they got married. And so if you got married on the 1st of September of 2012 then the 10 year rule should apply to you but if you got married before the 13th of August, 2012 the five year rule should apply to you.” “Mr. Speaker those are the areas that is attended to be captured by this bill. Mr. Speaker I would submit that the bill seeks to write some wrongs in some cases and to my mind it is certainly fair and as Fox News would say “Perhaps even balanced” but it is something that I would certainly commend to the House.”

Concern over spending by new Director of Public Prosecutions by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Serious concerns are being raised in the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and in the House of Assembly about the amount of money newly-appointed Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) John Masters is spending on consultancies. Well-placed sources told The SUN that the spending from the DPP’s office is “spiraling out of control and must be addressed as a matter of urgency”. Since Masters, who is from Australia, assumed office in March 2015, just over $77,000 has been spent on brining in foreign consultants. It is believed that some of these consultants are former colleagues and acquaintances of the DPP. “This is yet another gravy train that is following the same trend as the SIPT gravy train which continues to

place a significant financial burden and strain on the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” a senior Government official told The SUN. On August 17th, 215, Opposition Leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, who is also head of the Public Accounts Committee, raised the matter of the DPP spending in the House of Assembly. Her question was: Will the Hon. Acting Attorney General be pleased to say what amount has been spent on consultancy under the DPP’s Office since March 2015; will she state the number of paid consultancies and will she in respect of each state (a) the service offered; (b) the provider; (c) the amount and the number of bidders John Masters and amounts that were subject to the tender process; and will she be pleased since March in consultancy. to lay the answer to same on the Table Evans Welch - Prosecutor from year before $30, 500.34 of this Hon House? Question 12 Martin Cooke - Financial Investigator 6 weeks $25577.30 A total of $77264.20 spent

Stephen Hill - Prosecutor 4 weeks to help introduce CPS in TCI $19086.56 Counsel - confidential legal adviser $2100. The House was told that lawyers and classified experts are exempt from procurement procedures. Masters took up the position on April 27, 2015, following the departure of his predecessor JoAnn Meloche in early February. A qualified Barrister, he has 27 years post admission qualification experience in UK, Australia and the Cayman Islands. The DPP role was advertised locally, regionally and internationally. It attracted a field of 11 applicants, with five candidates shortlisted for interview by a panel which included the Governor, Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, and Wendall Swann from Swann & Swann Attorneys at Law.

Digicel Play dispatch staff trained to International Society Of Cable Telecommunications Engineer Standards As part of its evolution into a total communications and entertainment provider, Digicel Play continues to invest in its network and employees to ensure that customers experience the best and most reliable home broadband and TV services in the TCI. Most recently, Digicel has focused on providing training to nine Digicel Play staff who completed a Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineer (SCTE) professional certification. Following its US$8 million investment in network rebuild, Digicel Play has ensured that the company’s installers, services technicians & dispatch team have been trained to international SCTE Standards. SCTE certification is the cable industry’s premier endorsement for professionals. SCTE certifications are based on in-depth testing and ongoing professional

development maintenance through continuing technical education requirements. SCTE certifies cable telecommunications professionals in various levels of expertise across all areas of the cable network. This initial training for the Dispatch team segment will be further endorsed with additional training to ensure that all employees reach the Broadband Premises Expert (BPE) level of attainment. Digicel Play announced its network rebuild on July 22nd and highlighted the investment made into the rebuilding the network with the installation of over 30 km of fibre optic cable, 11 km of coaxial cable and the doubling of it’s international bandwidth capacity – all of which will deliver an unbeatable, superfast broadband experience to homes and businesses across TCI. The company has since added,

Digicel Play Dispatch Team 6 new vehicles to its fleet including 2 bucket trucks along with other vehicles which will result in quicker installation and response times for customers. Digicel CEO Erik Staaf, stated that “Our employees are our

greatest assets and investing in and developing staff is at the heart of Digicel because it is vital to the service level that Digicel can provide to our customers.” Congratulation to all nine employees on their SCTE certification.

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Turks and Caicos Islands vulnerable to money laundering, says US State Department by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief The US State Department has listed the Turks and Caicos Islands as a“jurisdiction of primary concern”, saying that the country is vulnerable to money laundering due to its “significant offshore financial services sector and notable deficiencies in its anti-money laundering/combating the financing of terrorism” (AML/ CFT) regime. And, according to the recent 2015 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR) from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, “corruption is a problem and the country’s (Turks and Caicos Islands) geographic location makes it a transshipment point for narcotics traffickers”. The report noted that trust legislation allows for asset protection trusts insulating assets from civil adjudication by foreign governments.

“Therefore, Turks and Caicos Islands “The UK is responsible remain something of a tax haven for for international affairs and must foreign criminals seeking to evade arrange for the ratification of any domestic tax reporting requirements,” convention to be extended to the the State Department said, adding Turks and Caicos Islands,” the State that the Superintendent of Trustees Department stressed. It was also noted that the has investigative powers and has the authority to assist overseas 1988 Drug Convention was extended to the Turks and Caicos Islands in regulators. According to the State Department: 1995. The UN Convention against the International :”The Turks and Caicos Islands Corruption, should strengthen cross-border Convention for the Suppression of the currency controls and disseminate Financing of Terrorism, and the UN information on designated terrorists Convention against Transnational more effectively. The government Organized Crime (UNTOC) have not should consider implementing been extended to the Turks and Caicos domestic provisions to allow for the Islands. The UNTOC is effectively in enforcement of foreign restraining place via the United Kingdom Orders and confiscation orders and the in Council, which have legislative effect in the Turks and Caicos Islands. sharing of confiscated assets.” The report mentioned However, the State Department noted that as a British that financial services supervision Overseas Territory, the government is conducted by the Turks and of the Turks and Caicos Islands Caicos Islands Financial Services cannot sign or ratify international Commission (TCIFSC) which is an independent statutory body tasked conventions in its own right.

with supervising the financial services sector, and is responsible for the oversight of company formation and registration. The TCIFSC licenses and supervises banks, money transmitters, mutual funds and funds administrators, investment dealers, trust companies, insurance companies and agents, company service providers, international business companies (IBCs), and designated non-financial businesses. According to TCIFSC’s website, there are seven licensed banks, five licensed money transmitters, 11 licensed trust companies, six international insurance managers and 22 domestic insurance companies. As of 2014, there were 7,040 international and 48 domestic insurance companies; and at the end of 2011, 9,871 “exempt companies,” or IBCs, were included in the Companies Registry. There are two casinos.

FortisTCI now offering in-home energy audits Residential customers in Providenciales can now apply for an In-Home Energy Audit facilitated by FortisTCI (the Company). This new service will be offered by the Company free of charge for one year, and is designed to assist customers in identifying ways to improve their energy efficiency at home. To take advantage of the In-Home Energy Audit Program, customers must visit the FortisTCI Customer Service Centre on Leeward Highway to complete an application. The application and interview process allows for the collection of preliminary information, provides insight into what types of appliances are installed in the home, and typical behaviours of household members relating to day-to-day electricity usage. Once the application process and interview is completed, the energy audit is

Fortis TCI’s in-house audit team scheduled and performed at the home. All information gathered, including a utility bill analysis, is then compiled to create a summary of the total energy usage. Approximately one week following the In-Home Energy Audit, a final

report is issued to the customer. This report details the key findings and recommendations to achieve better energy efficiency. FortisTCI President and CEO Eddinton Powell said, “We are excited about the value proposition

of this program. It will empower our customers by offering them solutions for managing their electricity costs. The bottom line is, the FortisTCI In-Home Energy Audit Program will help our customers save money by promoting the efficient use of energy.

Freedom of Information debate averted

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson

The Private Member’s Parliamentary Questions. Motion submitted about a month “Under the Standing ago by PDM Leader and Leader Orders (the Rules that govern of the Opposition, Hon Sharlene the House of Assembly) a time Cartwright Robinson and of day is fixed for Parliamentary seconded by Deputy Leader Hon Questions which should commence Sean Astwood was not debated at 2pm and a period of time for during the 2 day sitting of the Private Member’s Business which House of Assembly on August 17th follows question time and should be no longer than 2 hours,” the and 18th, 2015. According to a press Opposition Leader said. release from Opposition Leader “Under this Hon. Sharlene Cartwright- Administration, the Speaker has Robinson, the Hon Dr Rufus allowed the Premier on most Ewing in his rearrangement occasions to allow questions to of the Agenda reordered the go unasked and unanswered for Parliamentary Agenda in such a months though on the Agenda way that the Private Member’s through the Premier’s reordering Motion would have been the of the Agenda. This recent sitting final item under Orders of the saw where the Premier reordered Day which included 4 Bills and and allowed questions to be

taken before the completion of all of Government’s business but for the first time separated the debate of a Private Member’s Motion from following question time. As the Agenda has not been completed with only 2 of the 4 Bills completing its passage, this has resulted in the Private Member’s Motion being deferred to the next sitting.” Hon. Robinson said the PDM will continue to raise this issue and the importance of the passage of Freedom of Information Laws as an essential part of good governance. But more importantly, we stand firm that the people have a right to know and have access to information on what its government is doing.

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Some investors no longer require work permits By Todeline Defralien

Minister of Immigration Hon. Donhue Gardiner announced that persons who invest in businesses but who are not working in those businesses will not have to apply for work permits. Speaking during debate on the Immigration (Amendment) Bill 2015 in theHouse of Assembly meeting held in Grand Turk on Monday August 17th, 2015, Gardiner said the Bill, which was passed, amended the definition of “gainful occupation” to exclude from the definition (but only for the purposes of applying for a business license) persons who have invested in a business and who do not intend to work in that business and passive investors who are non-executive

directors of the business and who are not involved in the day to day operation of that business. The previous law required all such investors to possess a work permit in order for the business to be granted a business license. This amendment revised this provision. However, if the investor intends to be involved in the day-to-day operation of the business or intends to work in the business, he or she would still require a work permit. He said: “There are indeed a number of businesses, mostly small businesses, that are caught in this current definition that by expanding the definition so as to exclude persons who are investing but not working in a business from the need to obtain a work permit that it brings a tremendous amount of relief to

those businesses. When this was first brought to our attention we came up with an exemption order and we thought by doing that we would have cured it. However, that exemption order was very narrow in that it only applied to persons who had, or would have, invested monies in excess of $750,000 and that person would then have to I believe Mr. Speaker if my memory serves me right, maintain that level of investment and so persons who would invest of smallest sums were not exempted. Also Mr. Speaker it also required persons to keep records of their investments for lengthy periods of time because we recognize, or recognizing as we do the need to protect persons who are Belongers really, in the work place and in also business from unfair Minister of Immigration Hon. Donhue Gardiner competitions in the work place.”

BLUE HAVEN RESORT is inviting

applications for the following position:

OPEN POSITION SOMMELIER & BAR MANAGER Purpose: To create The Regent Experience for guests by providing personalized and expert wine service to bar and restaurant guests; to develop and implement strategies and services which meet the needs of owners, employees and guests. Areas of Responsibility: Provides a Regent luxury experience to guests by providing an excellent wine selection and serving guests in a warm and personalized manner with expertise. Developing and implement strategies to achieve revenue and profit goals. Requirements: •3 years + experience in similar luxury, high end work environment as Beverage Manager or Head Sommelier along with experience in managing a culturally diverse workforce •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience •Must have intermediate level Microsoft Office applications skills- particularly Excel and PowerPoint •You will have intermediate level Microsoft Office applications skills- particularly Excel and PowerPoint You will have intermediate level Microsoft Office applications skills- particularly Excel and PowerPoint •You will be College or university degree qualified; ideally you will have extensive wine and beverage knowledge •Excellent culinary technique and ability to work the line during all meal periods •Exceptional customer service orientation, complying with company service culture •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: •Designs and oversees the wine program for the resort •Provides’ ongoing support and education for the floor staff. •Manages the operation of the bar/lounge •Monitors pours, cost control and consistency regarding drink and service standards. •Manages the food and beverage service provided in assigned outlet; coaches employees on effective service techniques. •Inspects lounge area on an on-going basis and takes appropriate steps to ensure facilities meet or exceeds the hotel’s standards at all times

2 LINE COOKS – Night Shift & Morning Shift

Reporting to the Executive Sous Chef, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: •Must be knowledgeable of food preparation and presentation methods, •Ability to understand sanitary food handling techniques •Knowledgeable of the safe operation of kitchen equipment •Ability to increase staff awareness of proper personal and food hygiene policies and procedures as well as the safe operation of all kitchen equipment •Direct hands on preparation •Available to work night shifts and/or as scheduled •Daily recording and monitoring of the kitchen’s inventory •Strong team leadership Good writing, reading, listening and computation skills are necessary •Exceptional communication, interpersonal and training skills are a must

Requirements:

•Must possess a 3-4 star background •Minimum of 5 years’ experience in same or similar position •Diploma from a formal culinary institution is required •Knowledgeable in health and sanitation standards •Basic First Aid •Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays.

Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Salary per annum $32,000.00 to $45,000.00, not including service charge.

PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO:

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your to marjorie.dorsett@regenthotels.com no later than August 24, 2015.

hr@alexandraresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than August 28th 2015 Belongers need only apply.

SAY NO TO

VIOLENCE 1 - 800 (TIPS) 8477 WEB TIP WWW.CRIMESTOPPERS

I ‘M DETERMINED TO STOP THIS VIOLENCE, SO I ’M SPEAKING OUT . TC

STOP THIS VIOLENCE

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LOCAL NEWS

Mandatory food handler training next year

By Charvis Ferguson

According to the Director of the Environmental Health Department, Mr. Kenrick Neely, from 296 restaurants inspected this year only 12 of them have failed inspections. Despite limited manpower, the Environmental Health Department is fighting the battle to ensure that the restaurants in the Turks and Caicos remain up to international standards. Neely told The SUN, “We do inspections of restaurants every month. Not the same restaurants [but] if there is a problem with a restaurant when we go in initially, then we will give them time to do what they have to do and if it’s something that is severe that requires closure, then that restaurant will have to be closed to get the work completed. Upon reopening, we will monitor them for a period of a month to make sure that they are up to par.” He explained that restaurants within the country are inspected on

a quarterly basis, however, due to the limited manpower, especially in Providenciales, some restaurants only manage to get inspected twice a year. Despite these limitations, the department is working its hardest to ensure that restaurants meet the requirements. Neely said they have worked on a strategy to tackle the large amount of work. “We have priority areas, and recently, I have divided the officers in Provo [placing] one in Five Cays, and one into Blue Hills, so we can develop programs for the various communities to address some of the problems in the various communities,” he said, adding that the outer islands are taking this community-by-community approach to addressing food handlers and sees this method as a way to minimize the workload. In addition to inspections, Neely hopes to make it mandatory that food handlers be trained in food safety prior to entering a food establishment

THE BEACH HOUSE

is inviting applications for the following position:

Line Cook

Reporting to the Executive Sous Chef, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: •Must be knowledgeable of food preparation and presentation methods, •Ability to understand sanitary food handling techniques •Knowledgeable of the safe operation of kitchen equipment •Ability to increase staff awareness of proper personal and food hygiene policies and procedures as well as the safe operation of all kitchen equipment •Direct hands on preparation •Daily recording and monitoring of the kitchen’s inventory •Strong team leadership Good writing, reading, listening and computation skills are necessary •Exceptional communication, interpersonal and training skills are a must

Requirements:

Please Submit Applications to: hr@alexandraresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than August 28th 2015 Belongers need only apply.

Director of Environmental Health Mr. Kenrick Neely once the new food and drug regulations have passed. Neely said, “We had a pilot project in Grand Turk, with Margaritaville, where we had [over 80 persons] trained and certified where we give them a certificate for a period of six months, when the law comes in effect.”

When this law comes into effect, all food handlers are required to do the necessary training and if not, they would not be allowed to work on the premises. All food handlers will be required to undertake mandatory food and safety training

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Funtastic Tours Company Limited is seeking to fill the following posts: Tour Operators Dispatchers Mechanics Assistant Mechanics Automotive Electricians Assistant Automotive Electricians Boat Captains Labourers

All candidates must have a minimum of at least five (5) years experience in their specialist area in the tourism industry. o Must have a valid driver’s license with a minimum of five (5) years driving experience. o Tour Operators for All Terrain Vehicles must have extensive experience driving and maneuvering quad bikes and All-Terrain Vehicles and in managing large quay of tourists. o Boat Captains and Tour Operators in the aqua field must have a Captain’s License, CPR and PADI certification. Persons must be well versed in the natural habitat of various sea creatures. o Mechanics must be well versed in their specialized areas of repairing All-Terrain Vehicles, Electric Vehicles, Boats and Buses. Mechanics in their specialist field must have five (5) years experience. Assistant Mechanics must have (3) years experience in their specialized field. The company has a fleet of over seventy vehicles and climbing and requires several persons in the various mechanical areas. o Automotive Electricians must have at least five (5) years experience in repairing and maintaining high end electrical vehicles. Turks and Caicos Islands will be the first to pioneer such vehicles in the Caribbean. Assistant Electricians must have at least three (3) years experience in this highly technical field. o Labourers must be able to maintain various trails, clean the Workshop and assist the Operators where necessary. o Positive and disciplined attitude towards work in a customer service environment. o Proven and unblemished employment record. o Have a good command of English and excellent communication skills. o Must be able to work flexible hours and extended overtime schedules, including weekends and public holidays to meet the demands of the industry. o Able to undergo intensive training to meet the requirements of the industry. Remuneration package would be discussed at the interview process. All applicants should submit their resumes to Funtastic Tours Company Ltd at funtastic.tours@yahoo.com. All applicants are required to submit a Police Record, three reference (3) letters (one from their last employer) and undergo a medical once successful at the interview process. Belongers will be given first preference.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Premier tells Police Force to submit comprehensive policy to Government By Brandy Laporte Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing says that the Police Force needs to submit a comprehensive strategy to government to get the resources it needs. Addressing the House of Assembly on Monday august 17th, Ewing said: “We find ourselves not having enough information in regards to the police funding requirements. To show the strategy behind the funding and in order for you to be properly funded, you must have a policy and a strategy that is then costed so that you can then budget appropriately for that amount so that we can find ourselves here within the first quarter of the financial year having to provide additional funds to take care of some critical needs of the police force, to deal with some of the crime situations that we have.” The Premier added: “There is a lot that can be done, but must be done strategically by the Commissioner of Police. The Commissioner of Police has been called to come up with prioritized strategy so that it can be costed. They are not going to get everything by the clip of the finger, but we can implement and find ways and prioritize ways for you to get the various resources that are needed for policing.” The Premier noted that the police force comes under the authority of the Governor, but he has already made a request for the police force to be under the administration of a minister of Government. He told the House that apart from the request for funding, Government is dealing with reinstituting the police training program, which it intends to implement the upcoming year.

Turks and Caicos Sun Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce

Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing Ewing stated that some of the problems that the police face in terms of poor funding are soft body armor. Ewing said that he was informed by the former commissioner of police that the police force had soft body armor, but they were donated and when gunshots were fired at them the bullets pierced through the armors front to back and straight through whatever the armor was placed on, so it was decided that they were not appropriate items for the police officers to wear. This, he said, might have contributed to having some faults in security. Ewing said that it is very important for our police officers to be properly attired in going to those communities to serve and protect others as well as protect themselves in these communities. Ewing added that they have discussed with the police the need to use other policing methods such as tazers, because sometimes the police would agree it is not always necessary to use lethal force with a gun when some simple little altercation could be addressed by using tazers. “Even though we have heard all of the controversies about tazers, it

NOTICE To: The Creditors and Depositors of TCI Bank Limited (In Liquidation) (“the Company”) My request as the Company’s Official Liquidator to pay a second interim dividend distribution of twenty cents ($0.20) on the dollar ($1.00) was approved on April 21, 2015. We have been making distributions to those creditors and depositors whose claims have been accepted in the liquidation process. We have a number of distributions for approved claims that have not been collected. If you were a creditor and or depositor of the Bank and have had your claim approved please contact the Bank at the address below or visit the bank with valid identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, to collect your outstanding dividend.

Bank Address: TCI Bank Limited (In Liquidation) F203 Regent Village Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Telephone: (649) 941-7500 Fax: (649) 941-7501 Email: info@tcibpliquidation.com Mr. Anthony S. Kikivarakis Sr. Official Liquidator TCI Bank Limited (in Liquidation)

is something we have to consider and the police has proposed to us to be allowed to use tazers and have a policy about how they should be used,” the Premier added. Premier Ewing added that the Tactical Unit has been reactived and some of the members of the protection unit that provides protective services to the ministers, members of government and visiting diplomats if necessary has been redesignated to the technical part of fighting crime. Ewing says that he does not have a problem with that at all because he thinks that the crime issues in the Turks and Caicos needs to be solved and dealt with. “They need to now move forward and try to train more persons not only the higher level technical persons but more persons in the VIP part in terms protocol part of the protection services that is required in this day and age,” he added.

Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell 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.

Notice to Customers Please be advised that Excel Insurance Ltd. are no longer authorized agents for Security & General Insurance Co. Ltd. (S&G) and may not transact any further business on its behalf. Existing policies will be administered through to their expiry date through Excel. This means that claims, policy alterations and the like may still be handled by them. However, no new policies or renewals will be bound with S&G through Excel. Policyholders may contact one of the other authorized S&G agents in the Turks & Caicos Islands as follows to arrange for continuity of service: Colonial Insurance Brokers Limited Suite 3D-A Courtyard Plaza, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Tel. (649) 941-3195 The Insurance Centre Project House, 930 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Tel. (649) 941-4814

SECURITY & GENERAL INSURANCE CO. LTD. Atlantic House, 2nd Terrace & Collins Avenue, Nassau, Bahamas tel. (242) 326 7100 fax. (242) 325 0948 www.cgigroup.com A member of Colonial Group International: Insurance, Health, Pensions, Life

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Duty Free concessions should be extended to locals in Grand Turk By Oswald Skippings

While dealing with the Problem of the local beach vendors adjacent to the Grand Turks Cruise Center a few weeks ago when government was withholding their business licenses and had threatened not to renew their licenses, I pointed out that the real threat to the continued successful operations of the Cruise Port was not the local beach vendors who were trying to make an honest living and benefit from the cruise business that comes to the nation’s capital. I made it quite clear that the real threat was the fact that the duties that Government was charging the duty free operators at the port, way surpassed the duties charged at any other cruise port in the entire region. This anomaly has contributed to the escalating disenchantment of the cruise passengers who found that

shopping was no longer an attractive and profitable option at the Grand Turk Cruise Port and therefore they were spending less and less money and complaining more and more about the high cost of the available souvenirs and gifts. This also contributed to Carnival’s growing disillusionment and diminishing interest in its Grand Turk operations. While it is commendable that government has taken my advice, it is now incumbent on the Government to ensure that the reduction in duties for the Grand Turk Cruise Port is not simply restricted to the expatriate businesses, but that those local vendors at the Port and in the town area also benefit from that duty concession to enable them not only to be competitive with other jurisdictions where the cruise ships call, but to be competitive with the other duty free stores at the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

Oswald Skippings, Leader of Progressive Democratic Alliance In fact, Government must put in place a policy inclusive of all local tourist gift shops to benefit from the duty free exemptions throughout the Islands, so that our small local vendors

do not continue to be at a disadvantage. It is about time that our Government begins to see the wisdom of making available to Turks and Caicos Islanders the benefits that they make available to expatriate businesses. It is only then that locals will become competitive and their businesses will survive and not continue to die as is now the case while expatriate businesses are flourishing. This is but a small step to empowering our people but it goes a long way in supporting the small business people who are in the tourism merchandizing businesses. This PNP administration must come to the realization that this is not another opportunity for our people to be overlooked and sidestepped again, thereby keeping Turks and Caicos Islanders in a disadvantaged and impoverished position, but rather this is an opportunity to make right what was wrong for far too long now.

INTERCARIBBEAN AIRWAYS IS SEEKING: TWO AIRLINE EXECUTIVE • 10-15 years related experience in Commercial flight operations. •Must have a demonstrated knowledge of weight & balance, flight planning and ETOPS operations. •Knowledge of the practices and procedures of all airside and landside activities and functions as outlined in Ground Flight Operations Manual and Regulations. •Competency in PC Windows, Email, Databases and Microsoft Office tools is expected. •Ability to develop and train workforce, build relationships, utilize skills in the workforce that is most appropriate. •Ability to execute functional aspects relating to domestic travel transactions and maintain records and documentation. • Ability to operate all equipment relating to the job. • Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, understanding manner, and listen attentively to others, understands material, and provides instruction to employees. Schedule the appropriate staff compliment to ensure the smooth and effective operation of shift. •Coordinate with authorities in all International/Domestic Stations, Security measures affecting aircrafts, passengers, luggage and goods. •Manage local and International carriers contracts. (3) RAMP ATTENDANT •Over 5 years experience in Ramp Supervising. • Over 5 years experience in maneuvering heavy duty equipment e.g. (pushing and towing aircraft). • Experience in general handling of General Aviation. Narrow body and wide body aircraft. •British Airways, JAR OPS, Supervisor Aircraft loading qualified. •US Airways fleet service door opening trainer. •Awareness Certification of acceptance/refusal of hazardous material as per IATA regulations. •Comprehensive knowledge in the operation of all Ground Service Equipment (GSE).

Salary commensurate with experience. All positions require the following: ➢ Excellent command of the English language – reading, writing and speaking. ➢ Good communication skills and team player ➢ Detail oriented & organized individual ➢ Ability to work shifts, early mornings, late nights, weekends and Holidays. ➢ Clean police record ➢ Able to work under pressure

Belongers need only apply.

Interested person should apply to HR@intercaribbean.com or via fax to HR Department 649-946-4040. No phone call please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview.

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

Mervco Gas Station and Mozie Car Rental to be competitive

not be cluttered with a whole bunch of products and a whole bunch of shelves The new Mervco service sky high. We would rather have small station, which is owned by local shelves with good products that people businessman Mervin Cox, intends to want and turn profit for everybody” be distinctly different from the many Astwood said initially the other gas stations that are currently service station will be opening from operating in Providenciales. 6am – 10:30pm. This was the assurance given Given that the station is by manager Donald Astwood, who told located so close to the IGA roundabout, The SUN that in addition to offering Astwood said steps are being taken to competitive prices of fuel, they will be ensure safety of customers and road providing quality service to customers. users. “There are a lot of gas stations but “We have already made plans to there are not a lot of good gas stations,” speak with the Turks and Caicos Astwood said. “Unlike most of the other Islands Government to actually gas stations here in Providenciales, update and improve the signage and here we will have a full extension of a the street markings right down to retail shop. We will have good quality obvious instructions like ‘Give way and clean facilities. We are offering left’ ‘Give way right’ so that people high quality products. Unlike the other can be reminded and we also have gas stations we offer coffee, foods that been in touch with them to update the you can actual microwave and go with roundabout markings because that is it.” half the problem here especially at this He added: “What make this roundabout because it is so busy,” he gas different from the other gas continued. stations is that we are offering coupons Astwood, a former banker and as an introductory incentive. We are real estate agent, said they are looking offering 10% off every full tank to to have the best fuel in the Turks and start and going forward we will offer a Caicos Islands. loyalty card program so for every five “We will be buying gas for full ups you will get a $5.00 gas up. now but our aim is to actually secure The way that we are approaching it our own supplier state side so we can is to replicate something similar to a guarantee quality and supply, because HESS-style gas station in the United half of the problem down here is the States and so that way we will be question mark over who has the best different from the others and we would gas and who has water in their gas. By Todeline Defralien

PROVO GOLF CLUB FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER This position will provide all Food & Beverage management services within Fairways Bar and Grill at Provo Golf Club, including the daily operation of the F&B in the club house and on the golf course, as well as event/tournament banquet services. RESPONSIBILITIES •preparing and updating of various F&B menus •costing of all F&B items to ensure margins and profitability •hiring, training and development of all front of house and kitchen staff •implementing training programs & procedures in accordance with hygiene and food safety standards •planning labour rotas, stock ordering/handling and cost control •preparing annual financial budgets, monitoring and forecasting sales •implementing cost controls, labor management and revenue generating programs •promoting the facility to maximise revenue REQUIREMENTS •a proven track record of operating a F&B facility •an understanding of golf course etiquette, team management & good organizational skills •experience with EPOS systems including payroll management, purchasing and inventory systems •strong technical literacy including Microsoft Word and Excel •must be able to work closely with the Director of Golf to ensure that golf visitors and members are being properly serviced and that functions/ events are being professionally managed to ensure repeat business. •Must be able to work split shifts and unsociable hours on weekends when events are taking place.

The remuneration for this position is $36,000.00 per annum and is commensurate with experience. Contact Veronica Rigby via email by September 5, 2015 at ronnie@ habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephoned to schedule an interview.

Owner of Mervco gas station and Mozie Car Rental, Mervin Cox, with manager Donald Astwood We have an agreement with the local providers already and we are testing every drop of gas that goes into our tanks before we dispense it. So even though we are just opening, we have already tested out the gas and we have top quality gas in there so every drop gas of diesel that goes in there gets tested first.” Mr. Astwood says.

He added “We are aiming to get our price as close to $5.00 a gallon, as of now it is looking to be about $5.00 or $5.10 the way how I approach business is ‘if price is right people buy it’ not ‘Price is high and gouge people’ I would rather give you excellent gas and rather sell more product at a slightly lower price.”

JOB VACANCY SEACOR ISLAND LINES #16 Ports Road South Dock, Providenciales

Seacor Island Lines provides weekly shipping services to Providenciales and Grand Turk from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and we are currently seeking a Sales Agent You will assist the VP of Sales and Marketing in developing and implementing various marketing activities in line with the company’s requirements while assisting in developing and company’s sales Duties Include: - Visit Old and New Customers – Monday to Thursday - Attend to customers’ needs and resolved all outstanding queries. Maintain business relationships with current Clients and new Clients - Prepare Customer Proposals, Shipping Service Contracts and renewals - Develops clear and effective written quotations for current and prospective customers. - Makes telephone calls and in-person visits to existing and prospective customers. - Provide daily report to Management with customer’s needs, problems and interest and see how best we can assist them. - Any other Duties assigned by the VP of Sales and Marketing Salary Range: Based on qualification and experience Applicants must have: High School Diploma or Equivalent Excellent Customer Service Skills Computer Literate Own vehicle as you will spend most time on road visiting Clients Interested persons please send your resume to rrussell@ckor.com or fax: 649-941-4977

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AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Digicel files for IPO on New York Stock Exchange

Digicel Group Ltd. has filed for an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. The company has built a subscriber base of more than 13.6 million by island hopping through the Caribbean and South Pacific, selling mainly prepaid cellphone services. Through the stock offering, according to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Digicel, which is incorporated in Bermuda, hopes to raise capital to continue expansion and pay down its $6.5 billion debt. The July 31 filing with the SEC did not list how many shares the company will sell or the starting price, but did note that the company wants to raise at least US$200 million in the initial offering. The company will be listed as “DCEL” on the stock exchange. From April 2014 through March 2015, Digicel reported a loss of $157.6 million on total revenues of $2.8 billion. The year before, the company recorded a profit of $43.5 million on a little more than $2.7

billion, solidifying its position in the beginning to see the benefits of billion in revenue. Digicel launched in Jamaica Caribbean with a new submarine increased investment in [information in 2001, founded by Irish billionaire fiber network, connecting the islands and communications technology]. Denis O’Brien. From there it to mainland servers for Internet and The mobile markets in which Digicel expanded across the region, into the television service. The acquisition operates have reached comparable Grenadines, Aruba and Barbados, included Columbus’s “Flow” brand levels of mobile penetration with more developed markets and, similarly, among other countries. The company television and Internet customers. launched in the Cayman Islands Digicel company filings point to Digicel expects the level of demand in 2004 and now holds the number a strategy focused on improving for ICT in its markets to increase.” Despite the company’s two market spot behind LIME for its infrastructure and growing its wireless customers. “business solutions” unit. The SEC growth in recent years, Digicel still Since then, through a filing states the company plans faces steep competition from LIME combination of acquisitions and to expand its faster 4G and LTE and others. The IPO filing states: expansion, the company has entered networks in areas with denser “In some of Digicel’s markets, its 31 markets, according to corporate populations, giving faster speeds competitors may have more advanced filings, and holds the number one and more bandwidth to smartphone technology than Digicel, greater coverage area than Digicel, or both. market spot for mobile phone services customers. “Moreover, some of Digicel’s Major hard-wired in 20 of those. Digicel also offers service in seven investments could also be in the cards competitors have more extensive engineering, marketing, personnel Asia Pacific countries, including for future expansion in some areas. Myanmar, Fiji and Papua New “Where Digicel expands organically, and capital resources than Digicel it is not encumbered by any legacy does. The level of competition is Guinea. The company’s main networks and typically invests in influenced by the continuous and competitor in the Caribbean is Cable infrastructure,” according to the swift technological advances that characterize the industry, the & Wireless, trading as LIME and report. Flow and operates in16 markets in For its business services, the regulatory developments that affect SEC filing notes, Digicel “believes competition and alliances between the region. In March, Cable & Wireless bought that this is a growing business in market participants.” Columbus International Inc. for US$3 its markets where businesses are

Now easier for persons married to Belongers but not living together

By Todeline Defralien

Government has amended the Immigration law to make it easier for persons who are married to Belongers but not living together, because the term "living together” has caused tremendous hardships in the past. Addressing the House of Assembly meeting on Monday August 17th, 2015, Minister of Immigration Donhue Gardiner said they amended section 13(1) and section 30 of the Immigration Ordinance by deleting the phrase “living together with the Belonger” to be replaced by “and the holder of a Residence Permit”. The effect of this amendment at section 13(1) is that a spouse of an Islander who holds a Residence Permit is free to work in the Islands, thereby requiring spouses of Islanders to get a residency permit in order to work, as opposed to just relying on their living together with their Islander spouse for their working rights. The practical effect of this amendment is that so long as a spouse of an Islander is in possession of a Residence Permit, he or she may work in the Islands, even if they are no longer living together. Mr. Gardiner said “In recent times certainly the term "living together with” has caused tremendous difficulty because the questions has been asked of us and we had to determine whether a man for example, who lives in Provo while his wife is living in Grand Turk are they living together? And it is thought best that the case law said that they might in certain circumstances be considered as living together. So it is thought best to remove that provision, those words “living together with” and deal with marriage.” He continued “Mr. Speaker there has been a number of cases where there have been significant hardships, where persons who have been

married to a Belonger for a number of reasons and incidents where persons have even been convicted and even sentenced to term of imprisonment for physically being abusive in their relationship which by operation of the law, then means that spouse who has been ill-treated by operation of law automatically losses his/her status, his/her resident permit and his/her ability to work in these islands.” “And so Mr. Speaker the question is why don’t they simply pack their bags and go home? And that is an option for them and some person actually take up that option, but Mr. Speaker in this society certainly as I see it, it is thought best that because many times persons who are Belongers who use these mechanisms as a means to control (perhaps if my mind does not come for a better word at this time), but to control or to have a certain measure of control over the situation. And as he/she would have beat his/her spouse or they would have separated or they would have an argument when he/she comes down to the Immigration Board and says “My wife and I no longer live together” you must revoke, because the law says you must revoke this permit. Then you go ahead and do the investigations and you revoke the permit and two weeks later they are back together and asking you again ‘But why is it that you revoked the permit’? And ‘Why is it that you acted so strictly’? And so Mr. Speaker it is perhaps best that when persons are in those kinds of situations, that if you are no longer are together and if you are legally separated, or if you are divorced, when these things would happen automatically; but as long as you are married to each other there is to my mind no need for the law to step in between the marriage situation and seek to perhaps curry favor one against the other.” Hon. Gardiner said the question that has been posed to him

sometimes has been ‘but why won’t the foreign spouse go home’? He told the House: “And I say sometimes that ‘Well they have children here. They have children who were born here, who’s grandparents on one side at least live here, and who’s siblings and cousins who live here, and those children as well have their right to get to know their country

and to grow up in their country too. And so, Mr. Speaker to ask the parent to leave and perhaps take the children with them, may not necessarily be in the best interest of TCI because that child once he/she would have left and would have been brought up abroad and would of learned a different way of life would then come here and not be able to fit in as easily.”

CUSTOMER NOTICE We wish to advise that banking hours at the Scotiabank Grace Bay Branch will be revised. Effective September 14, 2015, our new banking hours are: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Fridays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Closed on Saturdays Thank you for your loyalty. We look forward to continuing to serve you.

Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license.

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

CXC results improve in 2015

Hon. Akierra Missick

By Charvis Ferguson The latest CSEC results have been released and the Ministry of Education has reported a slight improvement for students passing the secondary level examination. Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Akierra Missick, was proud of the successful candidates stating, “78.65% of the candidates [this year] obtained Grades I-III, this represents an increase of 2.26 percentage points, when compared to 2014 pass rate of 76.39 [percent]. She continued, “The pass rate in 14 of the 29 subjects is over 90% and students continue to perform well in the business and technical/vocational subjects,” Hon. Missick noted the

significance of government support in students’ success and said, “It is very important to my government that we continue to see year on year growth during our term, in order to set a standard that will continue upwards for years to come. She added, “The Ministry continues to improve standards in education by improving laboratories and specialists rooms at the four public high schools; the provision of teaching and learning resources; and funding to support teacher professional development and the introduction of additional subject options and choices in the high school curriculum.” This year, a total of two thousand two hundred and twelve candidates (2212) were entered to sit the examinations and out of that total,

one thousand nine hundred and two students (1902) actually sat exams in various disciplines. The Ministry of Education aims to conduct a detailed analysis of the CSEC results for publishing at a later date which will be issued on the government website at a later date and they extend their gratitude to all those who have contributed to the education and development of the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This year, 16.40 percent of students obtain a Grade I in their subjects, whilst 30.81 and 30.97 received Grade II’s and Grade III’s respectively. The Ministry of Education will further work on the advancement of education in the Turks and Caicos youth.

JOB VACANCY We are presently seeking an enthusiastic and qualified individual to join our team as Branch Manager to manage our Turks and Caicos Branch Operation. Applications are invited from suitably qualified individuals with at least five (5) year’s experience in an Insurance related field to fill this position. Only suitable candidates will contacted for an interview. Please submit your Resume via email to humanresources@caribbeanalliance.com For further details on our company please visit the following website – www.caribbeanalliance.com

Rated A (Excellent) at AM Best Company

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AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

66 Students Graduate Beaches Internship Program

Sixty-four students and two apprentices graduated from the Beaches Resort’s highly acclaimed internship program during a ceremony held at the resort’s grand ballroom last week. Hosted by Beaches’ Entertainment Director David Ellis, the afternoon event saw a large crowd of graduates and well-wishers. Among those in attendance were Honorable Akierra Missick Deputy Premier and Minister of Education and Leader of the Opposition, Honorable Charlene Cartwright. Also in attendance were family members who came to commend the interns for their hard work and months of practicum. “Today you are the further fruits of that partnership,” said Honorable Missick while addressing the summer students in remark, “You showed this resort and its guests with all of your accomplishments over the last few weeks of this program your willingness to succeed and your

willingness to work and develop the hospitality industry here in the Turks & Caicos Islands.” The graduates came from two different internship programs within the resort; the Ministry of Education Apprenticeship (2), and the Beaches Summer Intern Program (64). All students who graduated successfully completed weeks and in some cases months of training throughout the various departments within the resort. The internship programs saw participants ranging from ages 15 to 20 and they were given the experience of being a full time Beaches employee. Deleria Simms, Assistant Human Resources Manager and key person for the summer trainees stated, “The internship program is not a new one. We usually host interns every summer and in fact some of the graduates are interns who were a part of the program from last year.” “These summer students

are 4th and 5th formers who will gained from the apprenticeship either be returning to high school program will serve as the platform we or going to the Community College use to launch our future.” Upon completion of her this year. We have been able to show them the opportunities available apprenticeship, Cadet was hired as in the industry and hopefully they an administrator in the housekeeping will consider a career in tourism or department. “Each department was my hospitality in the near future.” Two students, Rose Fils-Aime favorite,” Fils-Aime said. “It would and Widtcher Cadet, were placed in take me forever to tell you everything the apprentice program. They were I learned about the hospitality world.” During her time at BTC Filsgiven the opportunity to try out many different departments and gain Aime was given the opportunity to experience working with supervisors work in concierge, housekeeping and cost control. and managers. “The most important thing Cadet, the valedictorian of the program, commented on her I learned through this internship success, “It only seems like it was was the Butch Stewart philosophy: yesterday when me and my fellow ‘Give the guest more than he or she apprentice, Rose, arrived here, expects,’” she said. I would advise any looking clueless and trying to figure recent graduate from high school who out what was our sole mission here,” is currently seeking employment to Cadet said. “Now here we are today; join this program. It will be worth your more knowledgeable, more confidant while and a wonderful opportunity to as experts ready to take on the real branch into the different aspects of world. The learning experience we the hospitality world.”

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AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Eugene Otuonye The Integrity Commission wishes to advise that the Register of lnterests of Members of the House of Assembly, covering the period ending 31 December,2014 has been completed and is now ready for public inspection. Under section 25 of the Integrity Commission Ordinance 2008 as amended, all persons in

public life (including Members of now available for public inspection at the House of Assembly) are required every sitting of the House of Assembly to file with the lntegrity Commission, in Grand Turk. lt is also available declarations of their income, assets for inspection at the Offices of the and liabilities and those of their Integrity Commission in Grand Turk spouses and dependent children and Providenciales during the hours once every two years on or before of 8:00am to 4:30pm from Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 4:00pm on the 30 June of the year in which filing is required. This Fridays, starting Monday 17 August, is otherwise called the "Section 2015. The Register of lnterests 25 Declaration", and it is strictly can also be inspected in the family confidential. In addition to filing the lslands at the respective Offices of Section 25 Declaration, Members the District Commissioners during of the House of Assembly are normal working hours. Eugene Otuonye QC, Director further required by the Constitution and the Ordinance, to file with of the Integrity Commission stated the Commission, once every year, that: Statements of Registrable Interests "The compilation and maintenance of of themselves and those of their the Register of Interests remain an spouses and dependent children. important constitutional function of These Registrable Interests are not the Commission. Its aim is to promote transparency and accountability, and confidential. The Commission would thus strengthen public trust and therefore wish to inform members confidence in the parliamentary and of the public that the Hon. Members democratic process. It also provides of the House of Assembly have all the Hon. Members with a measure filed their Statements of Registrable of protection against unwarranted criticism of perceived or actual Interests. The Commission has compiled conflicts between a member's private these Statements of Registrable interests and his or her public duty. This is the third publication Interests and produced the Register of Interests of the Members of the of the Register of Interests since House of Assembly for the period the last General Elections in 2012. The Commission is pleased that the ending 31 December,2014. The Register of Interests is Hon. Members have maintained full

compliance with this important constitutional requirement, and highly commend them for their continuing support and cooperation in this regard". The Statements of Registrable Interests contain the following information relating to each Hon. Member, his or her spouse and children: * Particulars of any directorship held in any company or other corporate body; * Particulars of any contract(s) with Government; * The name of any company (s) of which he or she is an investor; * A concise description of any Trust to which he or she is a beneficiary or trustee; * Any beneficial interest held in land; * Particulars of any political, trade or professional association to which he or she belongs; * Particulars relating to sources of income; and * Any other substantial interest whether of a pecuniary nature or not which may raise a material conflict of interest between his private interests and his public duty.

Supervisor of Elections aims to provide greater education to voters

The Supervisor of Elections, Dudley Lewis has moved to provide an in depth experience in voter registration information. Voter Registration in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is a continuous process and current eligible voters or TCI Islanders who will become of voting age (18 years) before the production of the next Electors Register have the opportunity to register. “The Register of Electors is generally up-dated on a regular basis to include those who have achieved voting age, who have gained TCI Status, who otherwise have become newly eligible (e.g. been released from prison) or who move from one electoral district to another,” stated Mr. Lewis “The Register is also required to

exclude formally eligible voters who have died or ceased to meet residential requirements or voter eligibility or persons serving a term of imprisonment for twelve months (12) or more or who has been certified to be insane or who has otherwise been judged to be of unsound mind.” “The Electors List is produced and published 31st January in every year and the Register of Electors produced and published 31st March in each year.”

The qualifying date for persons to register as electors is November 30th in each year. General Elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands is scheduled for 2016 and persons who want to exercise their

democratic right to vote in this upcoming general election MUST apply to regulate their status with the Ministry of Border Control and register with the elections department by November 30, 2015 to have their names added to the 2016/17 Electors Register that will be used to conduct general elections. Eligible voters on the present Register of Electors do not need to reapply to be included in the 2016/17 Register. They will be automatically included unless they notify the elections office that they have change their name or place of residence, or no longer meet the eligibility criteria. Persons who do not register before the qualifying date November 30th 2015 will NOT be permitted to vote in the 2016 General Elections.

TCA HANDLING IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: RAMP AGENTS/CLEANERS/CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENTS/FLIGHT COORDINATOR •Good command of the English Language •High school graduate •Willing to work shift pattern including weekends and holidays •Clean Police record •Valid driver’s license Ramp Agent Starting salary $7.50 per hour Customer Service Agents $8.50 per hour Flight Coordinator-based on qualification/experience Submit application along with photograph to: General Manager TCA Handling Town Centre Mall Providenciales

Dudley Lewis

BUTTERFIELD GOLD GROUP OF COMPANIES POSITIONS AVAILABLE Butterfield Gold One (1) Chauffeur Must have clean drivers license and Police Record Applicant will be a chauffeur for Owner seven days week on call including holidays. (1)One Painter Minimum of three (3) years work experience and knowledge in painting Wages: commensurate with experience starting from $9.00 per hour One (1) Domestic Worker For general cleaning & other domestic duties Be able to work independently Be willing to work flexible hours Wages: starting from $6.50 per hour

Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Submit applications to by August 31, 2015 to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department Town Center Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211

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LOCAL NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

Job Title: Location: Salary:

The Financial Services Commission hereby advertises the under-mentioned Posts. Responses may be emailed to administration@tcifsc.tc or delivered to Administration, Financial Services Commission, Unit D7/D8 (Executive Office), Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. Deadline September 5, 2015.

Head, Finance & Administration (HF&A). Providenciales Grade 2

Qualification: Master’s Degree in Finance, MBA (with an emphasis on Accounting), CPA, CA, ACCA; Specialized training in financial planning, accounting & auditing; Eight (8) years related experience. Job Summary The HF&A is responsible for managing, executing and reporting on activities within the finance, accounting, human resources management and office management areas. Job Title: Head Banks, Trusts & Money Transmitters Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 3 Qualification: Post Graduate Degree in Finance, Regulation or Management; Eight (8) years’ experience in the supervision/regulation of financial institutions of which four (4) should be at the managerial level.

Principles, risk assessment methodology for the insurance supervisory framework and identification of gaps in the supervisory process as against international and best practice trends.

Job Title: Assistant Manager, International Insurance Unit Location: Grand Turk Salary: Grade 4

Job Title:

Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualifications such as ACII or equivalent & six (6) years related working experience in a senior position in the insurance or insurance regulation fields.

Location: Salary:

Supervisor, Domestic Insurance Unit Providenciales Grade 4

Qualification: BSc Degree in Accounting or Economics or professional accounting certification such as ACCA, CPA and at least three (3) years in a supervisory position in the field of Insurance Regulation. Job Summary Develop detailed plan for the implementation of the insurance risk based supervisory framework, write guidelines and codes of conduct for insurance entities, supervise the Senior and Junior Insurance Analysts and plan the work flow relating to offsite and onsite supervision of licensed entities. Job Title: Senior Insurance Analyst Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 5

Job Summary Oversee the work of the Banking Department to ensure that proper laws, regulations and guidelines are in place for the proper supervision of licensed entities falling within its remit.

Qualification: BSc Degree in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualifications such as the ACII and Six (6) years related experience, of which at least three (3) must be in a senior position.

Job Title: Location: Salary:

Job Summary Reporting to the Supervisor, the Senior Insurance analyst is responsible for planning, coordinating and overseeing all activities in the Insurance Administration section of the International Insurance Unit and participating in on off-site and on-site inspections of insurance entities.

Head Compliance Providenciales Grade 3

Qualification: Post Graduate Degree in Finance, Regulation or Compliance; Eight (8) years’ experience in the field of compliance with experiences in internal audit, risk management or the supervision/regulation of financial institutions. Job Summary To develop and oversee the Compliance Division and carry out those duties as are outlined in the Proceeds of Crime Ordinance and AntiMoney Laundering Regulations and ensure the Jurisdiction’s compliance with FATF and CFATF requirements. Job Title: Location: Salary:

Head Economics & Statistics Unit Providenciales Grade 3

Qualification: Ph.D. in Economics and knowledge of Caribbean type economies with a minimum of five (5) years’ work experience in the field of statistics. Job Summary To establish a research unit within the Financial Services Commission to deal with financial statistics. Obtain, gather and analyze statistical data and prepare reports on economic activity, etc. Job Title: Deputy Manager, Domestic Insurance Unit Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 4 Qualification: MBA Finance, Regulation or a professional accounting certification such as ACCA, CPA and at least seven (7) years in a supervisory position in the field of Insurance Regulation. Job Summary Manage the day to day operations of the Domestic Insurance Unit, providing overall guidance in areas requiring compliance with the Insurance Core

Job Title: Location: Salary:

Insurance Analyst II Providenciales Grade 5

Qualification: Bachelors’ degree in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualifications such as ACII or equivalent & Four (4) years related working experience in a senior position in the insurance, insurance regulation or auditing field.

Job Summary The incumbent will be responsible for the day to day management of the International Insurance Unit, ensuring that licensees comply with all the applicable requirements of their license, including submission of compliance reports and financial statements. Oversee applications received and submission to the Licensing Committee for approval. Job Title: Location: Salary:

Legal and Enforcement Consultant Providenciales Grade 3

Qualification: LLB Degree; Five (5) years at the Bar, a minimum of three (3) years of which should include prosecutorial experience; Experience in evidence gathering and prior experience in a regulatory environment, whether financial or otherwise. Job Summary The Legal & Enforcement Officer is responsible for providing guidance on how to proceed in relation to observed breaches of the Ordinances, preparing legal notes, issuing penalty breach notices and oversees and follows through with their enforcement. The Officer will also advise as required on areas in which the laws need to be changed or introduced as well as correspond with external attorneys on legal matters. Job Title: Senior Policy Advisor Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 4 Qualification: ACCA, CPA, CFA or Post Graduate Degree in Finance or Regulation or similar equivalent qualification; Six (6) years’ experience at a senior level in a financial regulatory position, including prior experience providing policy advice.

Job Summary Job Summary Reporting to the Supervisor, the Insurance Analyst The incumbent will help in the formulation of II will participate in the conduct of off-site and on- policies for the enhanced supervision of the financial site inspections of the financial and operational sector as well as to provide guidance as to any systems of insurance businesses, to verify the existing gaps in the framework being used and best entities’ financial status and level of compliance practice standards. The holder will work to assist with their own internal policies and standards the Commission to fulfil its responsibilities under and relevant local and international standards, various Ordinances, Regulatory Core Principles ordinances and regulations. Review insurance and best practices standards. products being offered to the public. Job Title: Bank and Trust Job Title: Insurance Analyst Officer II (Two positions) Location: Providenciales Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 6 Salary: Grade 5 Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualifications such as ACII or equivalent & Four (4) years related working experience in a senior position in the insurance, insurance regulation, or auditing field Job Summary Reporting to the Supervisor, the Insurance Analyst will participate in the conduct of off-site and on-site inspections of the financial and operational systems of insurance businesses, including their corporate governance framework.

Qualification: BSc. Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Economics; (3) years related experience or an equivalent certification and work experience. Job Summary To contribute to the work of the Bank and Trust Department in the conduct of offsite reviews and on-site examination reviews of assigned licensed deposit-taking institutions from the pre-planning stages to post-examination follow up as well as to help develop and implement a framework for riskbased assessment of licensees.

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LOCAL NEWS

Fire Department not prepared to deal with 12-storey buildings, says Premier

By Todeline Defralien

During a Town Hall Meeting at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex last week Wednesday August 12th, 2015, Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing said the Fire Department in Providenciales is not prepared to deal with 12- storey buildings, but Government is making plans to ensure that they are ready, including building new fire stations. Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing said “As it comes to the fire and high-rise, is the Fire Department adequate to take care of the proposed development? No they are not, but that does not mean that we

Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing

are not preparing ourselves to fully the job; but that does not mean that redevelop our fire product. Part of we do not have to progress, and go our plans as of next year is to have ahead and expend our fire service.” permission to put a new fire station According to the Premier: both where it is now centrally and “Those things take money as you also up in the upper side of the base your revenue based on expected island with the fire equipment arrivals and accommodation tax, that is capable of reaching higher all of the services tax then you can heights.” fix your expenditure to purchase He added “The current fire things such as fire trucks and service cannot reach the height of expand fire services. So it is a The Seven Stars, but what those vicious circle and we have to plan developments have as the mitigation to spend the money to develop those measures in those places is that they critical infrastructures. Also we have very advanced fire suppression need to know where the money is systems that are recognized and coming from and so we need to get those fire suppressions that exist in investment in those major areas so 5th floors and up, can effectively do that we can drive the economy.”

Letter to Governor about Government officials involved in sex trafficking This week the local TCI SUN newspaper carried a story with the headline “US State Department implicates TCI Government officials in sex trafficking”. I am wondering if you can help me understand how the Special Investigation & Prosecution Team headed by Helen Garlick that was dispatched by the FCO in London and who have been camped-out at 5 star

Career Opportunities:

hotels on the beach in the TCI for the evidence and witness human trafficing past 5 years, could fail to discover what for the sex trade and yet no SIPT, TCI the United States Government has very police official or British police official publicly described as “Government in the TCI knows anything about it (or at least can’t admit to what they really officials in sex trafficking”. My GOD! What are the SIPT know)? and Helen Garlick investigating if they And Governor, can you please are not investigating corruption among tell me why the Integrity Commission elected officials? members, who never miss a photo or How could people from the US sound bite opportunity, have to be Government come to the TCI to collect informed by John Kerry, the United States Secretary of State, that our local politicians are involved in human trafficking for sex. Please tell me Governor Beckingham; are you and the other British civil servants and bureaucrats

Grace Bay Resorts is looking for candidates that have the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. They love to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization. Their management style is one that balances a commitment to people and their development with business/ financial accountability and delivers an exceptional guest experience

Director of Finance Job Requirements & Qualifications:

•Recognized Accountancy Qualification, ACA/ACCA/CIMA/CPA •5 - 10 years post qualification experience. •Experience in running the finance function in a luxury hotel/resort/ club. •Experience in running the finance function in a multi luxury property organization •Considerable people management experience. •Excellent knowledge of hotel accounting software. •Advanced mathematical and accounting concepts •Analyzing and interpreting general business periodicals, professional journals and governmental regulations. •Coordinates and manages the Business Planning and Forecasting process in conjunction with the General Managers and Department Heads of each property. •Supervises the timely preparation and distribution of Financial Statements and Operating Reports in conjunction with Corporate and Owner guidelines including cash flow statements

Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than August 31, 2015 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1030 Email: sheba.wilson@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies

doing anything productive in the TCI or are you just robbing our treasury for as long as we can tolerate it? You sir, like the Queen, should be ashamed of what the British have done, or failed to do, in the TCI during the past 10 years. The British have effectively abandoned their responsibilities to the Overseas Territories in the same manner that a crack whore abandons her responsibilities as a mother for raising her children. Shame of the Queen. Sincerley, Edith Delancy

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. 1.Parcel 61109/4 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales. Single storey main house with two bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen, dining/living room, family room and laundry room and an apartment unit with one bedroom, one bathroom, kitchen and living/ dining room on 1.021 acre. Registered Proprietor: Rickanro Samarl Lightbourn 2.Parcel 60900/288 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales. Single storey main house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, living/dining room and an apartment unit with one bedroom, one bathroom, kitchen and living/dining room on 0.36 acre. Registered Proprietors: Mark Andrew Knighton and Julie Margaret Knighton The auction will be held at the office of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 28th day of August 2015. A reserved price will be fixed on all parcels and a deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

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LOCAL NEWS

Opposition PDM Leader addresses crime, tourism, forced sex labour

Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson Mr Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and congratulate the Tourist Board on the recent headlines that suggest that TCI is moving towards all year round tourism. This is a positive thing at this time but whilst I am grateful for the much-needed revenue in this period, I wish to caution us all to be careful to

continue to put so many eggs in one basket. In my Budget Response this year, I raised this matter of such a high dependence on tourism and the fact or reality that this industry is fickle and cannot be relied on so heavily. I again caution us all to move quickly in the right direction to begin to diversify our economy. Another industry will not be a replacement, perhaps, but it can add to and this can only spell good economics. While we focus on external shocks, we must look at internal factors that can also negatively impact this vital Industry. I note three today, Mr. Speaker: Crime Mr Speaker even as we celebrate, we have internal factors that can gnaw away at this vital industry. The increase in crime that is trending up for the year and the increase cases of gun violence, though small in comparison, does not spell Beautiful By Nature. (Mr. Speaker please allow me to digress for a split second to recognize the success of the Police a few days ago in getting two illegal weapons off the street through police led intelligence – it is a great start). We must work collectively on

this issue and take a more aggressive approach. International Negative Report on Forced Sexual Labour Then Mr Speaker I note the fact that while we were quick to speak to the report that sought to blacklist us for non - compliance with international regulations, the Government has been silent on multiple reports (3 that I am aware of) that include these Islands among countries where there exists forced sexual labour. Mr Speaker this also has negative implications for our country’s reputation. I wait to hear the Government’s official response on this issue and then to address where these reports are coming from and to deal with the issue. Interaction with tourists Then Mr Speaker, equally important is how we interact with tourists. I must state that I was so disappointed when I was informed of a recent incident that involved an individual driving a Government vehicle in Providenciales who frightened a tourist threatening her arrest or rather “detention” for feeding a stray dog. Mr Speaker, the tourist who had been coming to this country for several decades each year and

who contribute to charities and help while here, was so afraid to leave this country for fear of being arrested for feeding a stray dog. Mr Speaker the context in which this occurred showed the ugliness of this country and the abuse of persons in certain offices. Mr Speaker I raise this because I sit with fingers crossed hoping that this report does not grow legs and move with the speed or mileage that sad stories such as this usually do. Mr Speaker I raise this here on this platform to highlight an obvious threat to this booming industry – that is the way we interact with tourists. I wish to remind us each of the role we all must play and the fact that what we do to tourists can bite us and Mr Speaker also to remind us that we all have a role to play in protecting and preserving this vital Industry. I will follow this report and seek to have this matter raised in another forum because these type incidences Mr Speaker will only hurt us all. Delivered by Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in the House of Assembly on August 17th, 2015

STOP THE GUN VIOLENCE - 'No More to Gun Violence' Rally & Campaign That is the theme of the new campaign that plan a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing gun will be launched in September of this year to raise violence. awareness on the dangers of illegal gun use and to "The overall aim is to get illegal guns off our streets spring into action local groups and communities and out of the hands of our Youth. This initiative in the fight to remove guns from our streets and builds on the ‘Saving our Boys campaign’ we reduce gun violence in our country. launched earlier this year through the Department Today as we celebrated UN International of Youth Affairs and will not only address the growth Youth Day, a team comprising of the Deputy Premier of violence among young people," said Hon. Missick. and Minister of Youth Affairs Akierra Missick, ASP "This is a community based campaign Wayne Jones of Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police involving police, and civil society and will motivate Force, President of TCI Firearm Sport Club Lewis groups and individuals to find ways to resist gang Smith, Senior Program Officer Nixon Dickenson and gunviolence and use time and energy positively and Checkmate TCI Production Company met to and most importantly say collectively ‘NO!."

JaMalCo Ltd 1 ELECTRICIAN • PREPARE ELECTRICAN ESTIMATES FOR MATERIALS • PREPARE ELECTRICAN ESTIMATES FOR LABOUR • READ AND REVIEW ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS • DO INSTALLATIONS AS PER SPECIFICATIONS • MUST HAVE 6 YEARS EXPERIENCE • Salary Offering: $10.00 per hour Closing date for application is the 4th September, 2015 Applications should be emailed to jmc@tciway.tc

The campaign will use strategies such as rallies, social media campaigns, television and radio PSAs in this way we aim to keep the message alive that illegal gun use cuts young lives short. The fight against gun violence will only be successful with the involvement of our people from all walks of life, and from all areas of life and our communities. The month of September will be the official launch period and the public will be kept updated on the various activities that will take place including job fairs, interview training and techniques, technical programs, anger management strategies and an 'On the Streets' Outreach program.

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LOCAL NEWS

Ministry of Education aims to expand Apprenticeship Programme

By Charvis Ferguson

After another successful year of the Apprenticeship Programme, the Ministry of Education not only aims to continue the initiative, but also to expand and further develop the program within the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Ministry of Education Apprenticeship Programme, which began in December 2013, was created as a means to allow young people an opportunity to gain insight into the hospitality industry through practical, on the job training at Beaches Turks and Caicos. The program originally ran over a yearlong period, however it has been reduced to 6-months and over the time, participants were allowed to experience three different departments within the resort. Currently, Beaches is the only hotel hosting the interns, however Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Akierra Missick told The SUN that the Ministry of Education aims to develop the Apprenticeship Program to include other hotels within the

Turks and Caicos Islands. This year will be the third year of the Apprenticeship Program, however it arguably has not created as much buzz as the Ministry would have liked. Missick explained that despite the past, the Ministry of Education aims to invest a lot more into the marketing process to ensure that recent graduates and young people understand what the Apprenticeship Program has to offer and signs up to experience the training at the nation’s largest resort. This year, there were two participants and upon completing the program, one was offered a full time position at Beaches Turks and Caicos; whilst the other participant travelled abroad for further education. The SUN spoke to Widtcher Cadet, the Valedictorian of the Apprenticeship Program and the participant who decided to stay with Beaches Turks and Caicos. Cadet, a nineteen-year-old graduate of Clement Howell High School, spoke highly of the Ministry of Education Apprenticeship Program and Beaches saying, “I came to Beaches

Driving Possibilities, Fueling Change Long Bay Express Services Ltd. is now seeking suitable candidates for the position of Manager. JOB SUMMARY The Manager will be responsible for the day to day store operations, including scheduling, training and supervising employees. The Manager will also be responsible for marketing, controllable expenses and inventory management. ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES •Prepare store for opening and closing when required. •Enforce established daily operating policies and procedures. •Prepare payroll. •Prepare and monitor staff working schedules. •Manage company receivables and payables. •Prepare monthly financial reports for submission to Owners. •Manage all aspects of the inventory cycle. •Recommend and Implement marketing promotions. •Any other duties as may be assigned. QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS •Associates Degree in Business Management or related field. •Minimum 3 years customer service experience.

for a job fair and a representative from the Labour Department told me about the Apprenticeship Program; the rest was history.” She continued, “At first, the program was just something to do but I finished feeling like a professional and with a job.” Cadet, who visited Housekeeping, Kid’s Camp and Cost Control, decided that the Housekeeping department would be her best fit and she accepted the job offer. Cadet said, “In housekeeping, I learned to be more efficient and became better at time management. The people in the department were like a family to me and they looked out for me, making sure I was always neatly put together and that I got the job done.” The Ministry of Education ultimately aims to set up a Work Experience and Internship Unit within the Ministry under which the Apprenticeship Program would fall. Hon. Missick explained that the unit would expand the program to include high school students and those who are studying at the Turks and Caicos Community College. Hon. Missick wants to

Ministry of Border Control Will Hold Public Discussions August 24 - 31 2015 As part of its public consultation on the TCI Status Bill 2015 and the Immigration Bill 2015, personnel from the Ministry of Border Control and Employment will be available to discuss these Bills with members of the public on the following days and times at the following venues: Monday, August 24th at 6pm, at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Providenciales Tuesday, August 25th at 6pm, at the Auditorium of the H. J. Robinson High School, Grand Turk

PREFERRED SKILLS •Exceptional written and oral communication skills. •Exceptional marketing skills. •Exceptional planning, organizing and time management skills. •Must be fluent in English. Additional languages are desirable. •Keen attention to details and service. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS •Must be able to work flexible hours, during holidays and weekends.

encourage other hotels to come on board in giving young locals this unique opportunity and has already reached out to other resorts in the hopes of expanding the program. However, at this moment, the Ministry of Education only collaborates with Beaches Turks and Caicos for the Apprenticeship Program and Hon. Missick explained that she is more than grateful to the luxury hotel for their continuous support of the program. The Ministry of Education Apprenticeship Program, which will be going in its third year of operations, offers recent graduates practical on the job training within the hospitality industry. Because tourism is the largest industry in the Turks and Caicos, this experience is beneficial for those young people wanting to get a head start in the industry or who are unsure as to what they want to do in the future. Interested persons are asked to contact the Ministry of Education before December for further information on how to be a participant in the Apprenticeship Program.

Wednesday, August 26th at 12pm at the Middle Caicos Community Center, Conch Bar Wednesday, August 26th at 6pm, at the North Caicos Community Center, Horse Stable Beach Thursday, August 27th at 6pm, at the Regatta Village, South Caicos Monday, August 31st at 10am at the Salt Shed, Salt Cay All persons interested in participating in these events are encouraged to attend.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Interested persons can forward resumes to longbayexpress@gmail.com no later than August 24th, 2015.

SENIOR ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY A Senior Associate Attorney is required for a firm based in Providenciales. Applicants must have at least 7 years post qualification experience. Duties include assisting and developing criminal and common law department, undertaking a variety of work including all aspect of criminal defence work, employment, wills and probate, family matters such as adoption, child/spousal maintenance, divorce, and human rights work. Salary commensurate with experience. Application must be submitted to: Employment Department F Corporate & Management Services Limited Tel 649-339-6275 Fax 649-333-7777 Email oa@fcorporatemsl.com SAY NO TO

VIOLENCE 1 - 800 (TIPS) 8477 WEB TIP WWW.CRIMESTOPPERS

I ‘M DETERMINED TO STOP THIS VIOLENCE, SO I ’M SPEAKING OUT . TC

STOP THIS VIOLENCE

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AUGUST 28TH, 2015

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In-Home Energy Audits Now Available Let a trained FortisTCI employee show you how to Make your home more energy efficient

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Set up your one-on-one, free* consultation today and learn what you can do to conserve energy!

Call us at 946-4313 or email us at energyaudit@fortistci.com to set up your In-Home Energy Audit today!!!

*This service is free until August 31, 2016 and available on a first come; first served basis.

www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 | P.O. Box 132 1030 Leeward HWY, Providenciales, TCI

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Seven Stars Resort is seeking suitably individuals to fill the positions outlined below. Ideal candidates must possess luxury resort experience, a professional demeanor, and a strong command of the English Language (oral and written). Relevant experience and a passion for hospitality is required. Salary is based on experience and qualifications.

HOUSEKEEPING ATTENDANT •Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working at a 5 Star Resort in a similar role. •Must have a strong attention to details and exceptional ability to maintain the highest standards of quality required. •Assist in all Housekeeping responsibilities, cleaning of guest rooms, stocking amenities and linens. •Must have the ability to lift at least 50lbs. •Perform any other tasks or projects as directed by Housekeeping Manager. •Clean police record is required

CARPENTER ASSITANT As a Seven Stars Carpenter Assistant, you will work alongside our Facilities Team, and with our Lead Carpenter, to construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures of wood, plywood, metal studs, and drywall using carpenter’s hand, and power tools; making sure to conform to hotel standards and local building codes. Specific responsibilities include assisting Lead Carpenter with: •Repairing, constructing, installing furniture, fixtures, decking, also walls,

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floors, ceilings, using materials such as: wood, steel, metal, concrete, plastics, and composites of multiple materials •Fitting and installing window frames, doors, door frames, door hardware, interior and exterior trim •Studying specifications in blueprints, plans to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required •Staining, painting, varnishing, detailed finishing of all wood furniture and structures. •Shaping or cutting materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws •Building or repairing cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, or other wooden fixtures used in throughout the resort, using woodworking machines, hand tools, or power tools •Assembling and fastening materials to make frameworks or props, using hand tools and wood screws, nails, dowel pins, or glue •Removing damaged or defective parts or sections of furniture, structures and repair or replace, using hand and or power tools •Inspecting ceiling or floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass, or any woodwork throughout the resort to detect broken or damaged for repair. •Following established safety rules and regulations and maintaining a safe and clean environment

REQUIREMENTS: •3 years of experience in commercial carpentry •Ability to comprehend schematic diagrams, blueprints, sketches, building plans and other specifications required by our client for information pertaining to the type of material required to get job done •Experience working with all wood working equipment •Strong working knowledge of job site safety as well as ability to complete a company specific safety orientation •High standard of integrity and professionalism •Clean police record is required Interested candidates should apply via e-mail to Seven Stars at hr@ sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration. Application deadline: September 4, 2015

ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.

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LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

FUN & GAMES

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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FUN & GAMES

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

FUN & GAMES

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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is seeking to fill the positions; (1) Receiving Clerk. (2) Aviation Stores Clerk Applicants must have 5 years or more working experience in the aviation industry, is extremely organized and discipline. Experience in using the Computerized Maintenance System, Microsoft word and excel is a must. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays Salary will commensurate with experience.

For all your advertising needs Contact (649)-339-5879 or email: sun@suntci.com

ELITE SECURITY SERVICES

L J LAKAY DRIVING SCHOOL

Contact 231-0047

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

TRULY NOLEN TCI

Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Services

In need of Experience Security Officers Salary negotiable

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Sammy Been Plaza #7 Seeks A Teacher Salary $8.00 per hour Contact 345-8326 or 346-3122

Is looking for Labourers Interested in working late hours mostly on weekends and holidays Contact 946-4272

A & W SPENDLESS MARKET SEEKS LABOURER

Salary $6.25 per hour

Salary $400 per week 7 days per week Contact 347-9039

BARBER Needed must be willing to work on weekends and public holiday Contact 333-1236

HOLTON WILLIAMS SEEKS

HELP WANTED

Nazaire Mompremier is seeking assistance in Finding a Labourer to work at his home and yard, Five (5) days a week, Monday – Friday , 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, salary of $6.50 per hour, please Contact #346 5647 for further details. Louis Mary Francois is seeking a Domestic Worker to work taking care of the house and children, Monday – Saturday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, salary $6.50 per hour, please contact # 346 5647 for details

Salary $6.25 per hour

䈀攀愀甀琀椀挀椀愀渀猀 ☀ 一愀椀氀吀攀挀栀猀吀唀刀一夀伀唀刀伀圀一䬀䔀夀

䈀伀伀吀䠀刀䔀一吀䄀䰀匀䘀伀刀䴀伀刀䔀䤀一䘀伀刀䴀䄀吀䤀伀一䌀䄀䰀䰀吀䔀䰀㨀 ⠀㘀㐀㤀⤀ⴀ㌀㌀㌀ⴀ㘀㘀㤀㔀䰀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀㨀䄀椀爀瀀漀爀琀䠀漀琀攀氀Ⰰ 䄀椀爀瀀漀爀琀倀氀愀稀愀Ⰰ 戀甀椀氀搀椀渀最㠀㌀Ⰰ 倀爀漀瘀椀搀攀渀挀椀愀氀攀猀

1 LABOURER TO WORK IN NORTH CAICOS 6 DAYS A WEEK $7.00 AN HOUR CONTACT # 246-1721

1 LABOURER 6 days per week Contact M Handfield (649) 243-4620

Seeking a Helper Monday to Fridays Salary: $6 per hour Tel. 242-1197

䌀爀攀愀琀攀礀漀甀爀伀眀渀一愀洀攀

PASSION BEAUTY SALON N SUPPLY

LISSITTE BEAUTY SALON Lissitte Beauty Salon is looking for a Salon Helper Telephone # 946-8876

LIFE CHANGING LIQUOR STORE IS SEEKING

TCI STRUCTURES LTD

1 LABOURER 6 DAYS A WEEK SALARY: $6.25 AN HOUR CONTACT: 242-5773

1 DOMESTIC WORKER • Salary Offering $6.25 per hour Closing date for application is the 4th September, 2015 Applications should be emailed to jamtcis@tciway.tc

 

   •   •     •  •   •  •          

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

CARIBBEAN WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

NEWS NEWS

No Christmas cheer expected for stalled Baha Mar resort

The opening of the $3.5 billion Baha Mar mega-resort in the Bahamas is expected to be delayed beyond the start of the Christmas season, with the developer deep in an escalating legal battle with the Chinese companies that are providing most of the finance and construction work. Even if construction on the unfinished resort resumed this month, there is little chance the project could be completed by mid-December, the start of the high season for Bahamas resorts, according to local contractors who have worked on the project. They asked not to be named because they are still seeking payment for some of their work. These sources said it would

take a least five months to complete the resort, partly because the project has fallen behind on inspections while some key contractors have moved on to other jobs. Baha Mar missed a March 27 opening because of construction delays and dwindling cash. Missing the high season, when resorts charge premium prices, would further hurt its finances. Sarkis Izmirlian, whose Baha Mar Ltd is developer of the project, is trying to restructure the project’s finances in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware. A Bahamas resident, Izmirlian is the son of Armenian billionaire Dikran Izmirlian who made his fortunate in the peanut market. But the Bahamian government,

along with China’s Export Import Bank and China Construction America (CCA), are trying to block that move as they initiate a separate liquidation proceeding in Nassau. China ExIm has bankrolled most of the project and CCA is the main contractor. Officials with CCA and China ExIm did not return telephone calls seeking comment. Several calls left for Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie were not returned. Baha Mar’s legal battle and internal squabbles have roiled the country’s fragile economy. During a July 28 radio interview in the Bahamas, Izmirlian said Baha Mar could open for the Christmas season, but that window

Baha Mar is key to PLP Government’s re-election chances, says Minister of State THE government’s chances of re-election depend “heavily” on how it resolves the major issues facing the country, specifically the Baha Mar crisis, State Minister of Legal Affairs Damian Gomez said. Mr Gomez said the Christie administration stands a “fairly good chance” at being re-elected, should it “succeed in bringing to a head” matters like the Baha Mar impasse and other matters negatively impacting the Bahamian community. However, Mr Gomez predicted that things could become “iffy” for the Perry Christie-led PLP government should it fail at “producing the services the public expects”. “Things are objectively hard for the vast majority of ordinary Bahamians,” he said on Real Talk Live with Ortland Bodie Jr. “We are challenged with circumstances which have confronted us and we are working through them. “Re-election chances will depend heavily on the success we have in addressing those issues. One is the completion of Baha Mar and the opening of the resort so that persons can be gainfully

employed in that property. We expect good things from Baha Mar once it’s finished and open. “We’ve done a number of projects in the Family Islands which, if they come to fruition, will speak to the creation of jobs, the improvement and the quality of life after those projects are completed, health facilities being available at a particular level for the first time in islands like Eleuthera.” He added: “So there are things which, should we succeed in bringing to a head and producing the services the public expects, if we do succeed in doing that we will have a fairly good chance of being re-elected. If we don’t, we will have some explaining to do, and things then become iffy.” On Tuesday, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson said negotiations between Baha Mar and its Chinese partners to come to an agreement over the future of the $3.5 billion project are currently at an “interesting, delicate stage”. Mrs Maynard-Gibson has led two government delegations to Beijing, China, for negotiations about the resort since the property filed for bankruptcy on June 29.

was closing “very rapidly,” as legal maneuvers by the Chinese and Bahamas government would only delay an opening. A lawyer for Baha Mar Ltd told U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Kevin Carey on Monday that settlement talks between Izmirlian and the Chinese remain halted. With no face-to-face meetings, energy is being put toward the ongoing litigation, said Tyson Lomazow, a lawyer at Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy LLP. Baha Mar Ltd declined to comment on the possibility of a Christmas opening, but said in a statement it was trying to get a resolution that would allow an opening as soon as possible.

US government says it does not endorse candidates or parties in foreign countries

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The United States Embassy here said American citizens were free to express their opinions anywhere in the world as a government minister criticised the appearance of two former senior US officials on the platform of the main opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) over the weekend. Former New York Governor David Paterson and former Congressman Adolphus Towns appeared at the launch of the PNM’s candidates for the September 7 general election and urged voters to ensure that the party wins the September 7 general election. In a statement issued ahead of the rally of the United National Congress (UNC) led coalition People’s Partnership government rally and launch of candidates on Sunday, the US Embassy here said that Washington nor the embassies that represent the country abroad “do not endorse candidates or Damian Gomez parties in foreign elections. “U.S. citizens are free to express their Despite the talks, a deal opinions in any forum, whether in the U.S. or abroad. has not been reached. Opinions expressed by U.S. citizens who are former At the time, Mrs Maynardoffice-holders, either on the Federal or State level, Gibson did not say if she felt the should not be seen as reflecting the policy or views of relevant parties would ever come the U.S. Government.” to an agreement; however she But UNC deputy leader and Housing said she remains “optimistic and Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal said the two former US hopeful” that the matter can be officials were “ out of place” for criticising Trinidad resolved outside court. and Tobago. The government has long “I was bewildered when two foreigners came touted Baha Mar’s opening as a to our shores to bad talk Trinidad and Tobago. You key component of the country’s cannot come on Trinidad soil and ill speak our Prime economic rebound. The resort Minister. You are fast and out of place and get the hell is expected to create 5,000 out of Trinidad,” h said. permanent jobs.

St Lucia DPP says no to requests to discontinue cases of sexual nature ST LUCIADirector of Public Prosecutions, says her office remains strongly opposed to requests for the dismissal of cases involving crimes, usually of a sexual nature, involving minors. “The Prosecution Department is faced with numerous requests, usually from parents of minors who indicate that they do not want the case to continue and of course that is unlawful

because once a complaint is made and someone is charged the law has a responsibility to protect minors,” Charles-Clarke told reporters on Monday. According to the DPP, there are certain policies that allow her office to determine when to proceed or discontinue a case – and these situtations are very rare. Charles-Clarke made it clear that it is the DPP and not a victim who can discontinue a

case. “However if the process is going to be too traumatic for the victim and we have medical evidence to support that, we may take a decision not to proceed with the case at that point in time,” the DPP revealed. Charles-Clarke said that while she would not say that requests for discontinuance were on the rise, they have been constant.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 21ST, 2015 – AUGUST 28TH, 2015

CARIBBEAN NEWS

Dominicans of Haitian descent fear racism will fuel deportations BATEY LIBERTAD, Dominican Republic — As Roberto Rafael remembers it, a Dominican soldier looked him up and down 15 years ago, decided his skin was too dark for a native Dominican, loaded him into a truck and dumped him in the pouring rain into Haiti, a country where he didn’t know a soul. Rafael, then 15, said he wandered terrified around Ouanaminthe, a Haitian border town 60 miles from his home, before a chance meeting with a friend from the Dominican Republic who happened to be visiting Haiti and who helped contact Rafael’s family. Rafael, born to Haitian parents in the Dominican Republic, eventually returned home after relatives took documents to Haiti to prove his Dominican birth, he said. “I walked around like a crazy person for hours,” Rafael, 30, said. “Seeing my friend’s face in Haiti was like finding Jesus.” Rafael now fears he and others like him will face the same old prejudices and suffer the same fate as a recently enacted Dominican immigration law takes hold, spurring a new immigration crisis between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, neighboring countries that share the island of Hispañiola. International human rights activists say such fears are well-founded. Already, they say, dark-skinned native Dominicans and longtime residents report new, eerily similar accounts of deportations from the Caribbean nation.

The roots of the crisis began in 2013 when the country’s Supreme Court ruled that people born in the Dominican Republic between 1929 and 2010 to noncitizen parents do not qualify as Dominican citizens. The decision retroactively stripped tens of thousands of people of their nationality, effectively leaving many people stateless. People born in the Dominican Republic to Haitian parents bore the brunt of the ruling. While the government created a plan to restore nationality for thousands of people who could prove they were born in the country, many people say they lacked all the documents to prove their citizenship. Another program grants legal residency to non-citizens — many of them Haitian workers — who can establish their identity and prove they arrived before October 2011. The Dominican government said it would not begin deportations until mid-August, 45 days after the June 17 application deadline. But dozens of people told USA TODAY that Dominican officials deported them soon after June 17. Many of the people deported say they believe officials targeted them for their dark skin. Dominican officials said race won’t be considered and all residents will get due process in any deportation proceedings. Caonabo Delgadillo, who heads the division of migration for the northern part of the Dominican Republic, said Haitians and Dominicans have long had close

ties and that race is not the issue. “We don’t have anything against blacks, because we are all black,” Delgadillo said. “There’s no problem. Every Dominican has a Haitian working in their house. I personally have two.” Josue Fiallo, an adviser to the Dominican ministry of the presidency, told USA TODAY the Dominican Republic will not deport anyone who can prove they were born in the country and will not split up any families. He acknowledged that in the past Dominican officials deported some people without due process, but said a “new generation” of Dominican authorities would individually assess each case. Fiallo denied any deportations tied to the new immigration laws and called it “outrageous” for activists to say the country is acting out of racism. The country, he said, is simply abiding by its constitution by ensuring that each person — documented or undocumented — has a path to legal residency. “We’re not going to stop you in the street, put you in a bus, and in four hours you’re not going to be in Haiti. That’s not how it is going to be,” Fiallo said. “The truth is people have to trust our word.” Rafael and others in this border town say they distrust a government they feel has sown an atmosphere of suspicion in a country still wrestling with discrimination and racism based on gradations of skin tone.

Marcus Garvey

Marcus Garvey’s boyhood home to be transformed into heritage site ST JAMES, Jamaica – The house where National Hero Marcus Garvey grew up in St Ann’s Bay, St Ann, will be refurbished and transformed into a heritage site. This was outlined in a message from Youth and Culture Minister, Hon. Lisa Hanna, during a ceremony to commemorate the 128th birthday of Jamaica’s first National Hero, held on the compound of the St Ann Parish Library, in St Ann’s Bay, on Monday, August 17. Read by Councillor for the Beecher Town Division of the St Ann Parish Council, Ian Bell, the message noted that the property on which the house is located, was declared a protected site in 1992, as the Government moved to ensure that the legacy and history of Marcus Garvey was preserved. “The Ministry of Youth and Culture remains committed to preserving the legacy of this outstanding Jamaican as we are ready to start plans to refurbish the house of Jamaica’s first National Hero and transforming it into a heritage site,” Hanna said. “We want to create an environment where Jamaicans at home and abroad can visit and pay tribute to a man who left a great legacy. It was he who said that ‘a people without knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots’. Let us continue to embrace our rich cultural heritage and pass on the memories and traditions to the next generation,” she added. Miss Hanna said the celebration of Marcus Garvey’s 128th birthday and the 51st year of being named a National Hero, presents an opportunity for the sharing of cultural heritage among the youth. “Culture is a critical component of who we are as a nation,” the Minister emphasized.

Guyana government accuses opposition of seeking to divide country G E O R G E T O W N , Allicock, MP Vice President and return air fare to their Guyana – The Guyana and Minister of Indigenous homes. government Monday accused Peoples’ Affairs to driving fear “”Toshaos reportedly stood their senior officials of the into the newly elected Toshaos ground telling the PPP bullies that they came to the city to main opposition People’s of Guyana”. Progressive Party Civic It said PPP activists attend the NTC conference. (PPP/C) of wanting to divide transported several Toshaos They did not come to attend the country and applauded to attend what was reportedly a political meeting or to meet the Toshaos community on the a meeting planned to discuss with any political party. the National Toshaos’ Council “The Toshaos reject position taken on the issue. the bullyism and the divisive The Indigenous Conference. The Toshaos are in the message issued by Jagdeo Peoples’ Affairs said that while it was disappointed but capital to attend the one week and his clique. The Ministry not surprised at the moves by conference and according to of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs the PPPC officials including the government statement joins with the Indigenous former president Bharrat theToshaos were led to believe leaders of Guyana in rejecting Jagdeo and former home “they were on their way to an and condemning in the affairs miister Clement Rohee. official meeting regarding the strongest terms this dastardly act by the PPP in attempting The government said NTC conference. that the PPPC members on The statement said to cause division among our Sunday night ‘ moved from that the Toshaos were taken to people at this very important making scandalous statements a venue where they were told juncture in our history.” The statement said about Honourable Sydney “that they would be given cash

Man accused of extorting money from well known Jamaican actor

that with the NTC, budget and Heritage celebrations imminent, “the agenda of the PPP is clear for all to see. “It will not be surprising if the PPP attempts to further disrupt the proceedings of the National Toshaos’

A 29-year-old man is due to Sommerville is accused of extorting reappear in court on September 7 on more than J$100,000 (One Jamaica charges of extorting money from popular dollar =US$0.004 cents) from Samuels actor Oliver Samuels and stealing two and stealing two phones, valued at nearly high-end phones from his house. J$200,000, from the actor, who in the Junior Webster Sommerville 1980’s was a household name throughout appeared in the Corporate Area Resident the Caribbean for his role in the comedy Magistrate’s Court on Monday charged “Oliver at Large”. with charged with extortion, threatening to Sommerville is alleged to have stolen the commit murder and larceny. phones from Samuels’ home in May.

Conference…. That notwithstanding, The Ministry is confident that the Toshaos’ rejection of the PPP’s overture is an indication of the maturity of our Indigenous leaders of Guyana and augers well for the success of the NTC conference”

Sommerville began extorting money from the actor and comedian and threatened to kill him if he refused to pay up. He reportedly extorted more than J$130,000 in May and early June from the actor. Following repeated death threats, Samuels reported the matter to the police and Sommerville was arrested and charged on June 8.

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CTO to tackle seaweed problem The Caribbean immediately to address with urgency.” Last week Tourism Organization our situation.” (CTO) announced “We are marine biologist John on Tuesday that it optimistic that Mussington joined with would partner with meaningful solutions parliamentarians from emerge,” the the Tobago House of the University of the will assembly in calling for West Indies (UWI) as statement said. calls grow louder for a The CTO said a regional approach to regional approach to a number of regional tackling the problem. international CTO said the vexing Sargasso and institutions have “many seem to agree seaweed problem. The Barbados been engaged “in our that what’s needed is a based CTO said in a attempts at finding deeper understanding statement “we will solutions, among them, of how to tackle the be participating in a universities.” issue collaboratively, The tourism with key stakeholders, symposium being led by the University of the organization and the public- and privateWest Indies (UWI) “to natural occurrence is sector, contributing to crystallize these myriad an “unwelcome” and the discussion. “ Sargassum is ideas and theories into “uncomfortable” visitor, workable solutions that pledging to treat the a natural occurrence can be implemented matter “seriously and believed to originate

in the Sargasso Sea, a is behind the problem. to two million-square-mile “Due body of warm water in human activity, we the north Atlantic near are polluting the Bermuda, although atmosphere. We pollute, some scientists believe we trap heat inside the the current influx was planet,” Herberg who is brought into the Eastern a director of the school Caribbean through the said. She joined calls North Brazil Current and because it thrives for “a sense of urgency in warm, nutrient-rich on the matter” warning water, the Sargassum “it’s just going to get simply spreads worst.” The seaweed throughout the region. Stina Herberg, has been blamed for who runs Richmond a number of room Vale Academy, a cancellations in Antigua climate change school and other Caribbean in St Vincent and the destinations. Grenadines, said she CTO agrees that, “it believes climate change takes away from the

Man nabbed in Trinidad pleads not guilty in 1999 NY slaying

Detectives escort a bearded Balkumar Singh to Nassau County Court, Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, in Mineola, NY. Singh was arrested in Trinidad this year after 16 years on the run on charges related to the fatal shooting of a man outside a New York wedding in 1999. MINEOLA, N.Y. — A man arrested in Trinidad after 16 years on the run in the fatal shooting of a man outside a suburban New York wedding apologized Monday as he was led into a Long Island courthouse. “I’m sorry for the pain I caused the family,” Balkumar Singh told reporters before his arraignment in Nassau County court. Singh, 37, pleaded not guilty to murder, assault, weapons and other charges and was ordered held without bail. He was not represented by an attorney; a judge said a court-appointed attorney would represent him at his next court

appearance. Prosecutors say Singh got into an argument while attending a June 1999 wedding in Hicksville. They say Singh fired numerous times outside the wedding hall, killing 19-year-old Abzal Khan. Court documents indicate the assault charges involve the wounding of a second man. A New York Times article at the time of the shooting said police believed the gunman had asked a girl to dance and argued with her date. Later, the gunman was waiting outside, and as the wedding guests left the party, he opened fire. The two men who were

shot apparently had not been involved in the argument inside, police said. Khan, 19, of Queens, died of chest wounds. The second man was shot in the leg. Singh was featured on “America’s Most Wanted” in 2009. Acting District Attorney Madeline Singas said Singh used numerous aliases while on the run and might have spent time in Canada and Guyana. She said he was arrested in Trinidad in March after authorities were tipped off to his whereabouts; he apparently was homeless and living on the streets. Khan’s parents and a brother attended the brief court proceeding. “I’m very sad,” said Khan’s mother, Sharifan Khan, who shed tears as she spoke to reporters on her way into the courthouse. “I’m very, very, very sad. I can’t explain. My son was a very pious child. He always went to mosque; he always cleaned the mosque. ... He was so good.” After the arraignment, Khan’s father, Ishanallie Khan, said he would not accept Singh’s apology. “No, that doesn’t mean nothing to me,” he said.

US Virgin Islands ex-governor held on embezzlement charges

A former governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands and an ex-finance director in the U.S. Caribbean territory were arrested on charges of embezzling public money, authorities said Tuesday. Acting Attorney General Claude Walker announced the arrests of former Gov. John deJongh and Julito Francis, once a director of the public finance authority for the three-island territory. Walker alleged they used $490,000 of taxpayer money to pay for improvements to deJongh’s private residence “without authority of law.” The alleged embezzlement was between April 2007 and January 2009, when deJongh was governor. “These funds were earmarked by

the legislature to repair public roads,” Walker said. Neither deJongh nor Francis made any immediate comment on their arrest. It’s been known for years that deJongh used money earmarked for highway upgrades to pay for a perimeter fence and other security improvements at his private residence when he was governor. When he took office in 2007, he chose to live in his own house rather than the mansion that has served as the official governor’s residence. He asserted that renovating the mansion to accommodate his family and pay for other expenses would have cost $2.1 million of public money so staying at his upgraded home

resulted in savings for islanders. But in 2010, the U.S. Interior Department’s Office of the Inspector General found that use of the public purse to upgrade deJongh’s private residence circumvented the authority of the legislature. Earlier this year, deJongh announced he paid back just over $200,000 to the territory for the upgrades. He said he came to that figure by assessing the current value of the security installations at his home and subtracting the cost of a guardhouse no longer in use now that he is out of office. Lawmakers passed a resolution demanding full repayment, saying he really owed more than double what he repaid.

beach experience for our guests.” “For most of our members, the beach is an integral part of this experience, the pristine nature of which we are proud. We are aware that the influx of Sargassum can impact this aspect of our product and we will be at the centre of efforts to find a regional solution,” the CTO statement said. The weed has been impacting the Caribbean for a number of years, but the consensus among stakeholders is that the problem is worsening.

Haiti disqualifies 14 candidates over election violence

In this photo, election officials count votes during parliamentary elections in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — Haitian election officials on Tuesday disqualified 14 candidates for involvement in the violent disturbances that marred voting at polling stations around the country earlier this month. Voters in the Aug. 9 election were filling two-thirds of the 30-member Senate and the entire 119-member Chamber of Deputies. It’s not clear if those disqualified won because results haven’t been announced. Those disqualified by the Provisional Electoral Council include Senate candidate Arnel Belizaire. The former opposition member of the Chamber of Deputies is accused of firing a weapon in the air outside a polling station. Several others were accused of damaging voting stations or interfering with the casting or counting of ballots. Belizaire, who has been a critic of the government of President Michel Martelly, could not be reached for immediate comment following the announcement. He denied any wrongdoing in an interview on a local radio station, saying he was not out in public on election day. The Organization of American States said its monitors found scattered violence and irregularities but not enough to invalidate the results. The balloting was considered a test run for the first round of Haiti’s presidential election and the second round of local elections, scheduled for Oct. 25.

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NEWS

Clinton’s favorability ratings lowest since 2001

Hillary Clinton’s lead in the race for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination has narrowed and her overall favorability ratings have fallen to their lowest levels since 2001, CNN reported on Wednesday. It said 47 percent of Democratic and Democratic-leaning voters surveyed in a poll this month said they supported Clinton for the party’s nomination, down 9 points since July and marking “the first time her support has dipped below 50 percent in national CNN/ORC polling on the race.” Backing for Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, her closest rival for the Democratic nomination, has risen 10 points since July to 29 percent, CNN said. Vice President Joe Biden, who has yet to announce whether he will run, is third at 14 percent. Clinton maintains her edge against potential Republican

opponents, however, despite a “growing perception that by using a personal email account and server while serving as secretary of state she did something wrong,” it said. Clinton leads every Republican head-to-head, including a 6-point margin over real estate mogul Donald Trump, who leads the crowded Republican field. CNN said the poll conducted from Thursday to Sunday found 44 percent of adult Americans had a favorable view of Clinton and 53 percent unfavorable, her worst showing since March 2001. That compared with 45 percent favorable and 48 percent unfavorable in a July CNN poll. Clinton was the top choice when Democratic voters were asked which candidate they trusted to handle the economy, race relations, foreign policy and the income gap between rich

Putin would consider meeting Obama at UN

U.S. President Barack Obama (L) meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the G8 Summit at Lough Erne in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland June 17, 2013 Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend next month’s U.N. General Assembly in New York and would “consider constructively” any request for a meeting there with President Barack Obama, Russia’s foreign minister said on Wednesday. Relations between Russia and the West hit a post-Cold War low over Ukraine, where Moscow annexed Crimea from Kiev last year and where Washington and Brussels say it is driving a separatist pro-Russian revolt in the east. But Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the Kremlin would consider any request from the White House for a meeting between Putin and Obama at the United Nations. Russia sides with the rebels but denies arming them, or sending its serving troops to fight on their behalf in east Ukraine. The West slapped sanctions on Russia over its role in the conflict.

Other disputes between Russia and the West include the conflict in Syria, human rights, security and defense as well as trade issues. But Moscow and Washington were among six world powers that last month reached a deal with Iran on its nuclear program, a landmark agreement ending a decades-old international dispute. `Obama thanked Putin on the phone for his part in the Iran deal. The two last spoke face-to-face briefly in November, and Putin has paid no official visits to the United States since returning to the Kremlin for a third term in mid-2012. tPutin, a former spy who has been Russia’s paramount leader for more than 15 years, has mostly avoided traveling to the West since the United States and the European Union slapped sanctions on Russia over Ukraine last year.

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton addresses union members as she tours the Carpenters International Training Center in Las Vegas, Nevada August 18, 2015. and poor Americans. “Her biggest advantage comes on foreign policy, where 61 percent of registered Democrats say they trust

Clinton over the rest of the field,” CNN said. Clinton’s use of her private email while secretary of state from 2009 to 2013 came to light in March and drew fire from political opponents who accused her of sidestepping transparency and record-keeping laws. Officials from U.S. intelligence agencies have so far identified 305 emails from Clinton’s private server to be reviewed for potentially classified information, the State Department said in a court filing on Monday. Asked about her use of the private email account, about 56 percent of poll respondents said Clinton did something wrong, up from 51 percent in March, CNN said. Thirty-ninepercent said she did nothing wrong. The CNN/ORC poll interviewed 1,001 Americans and had a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Thai police seek Interpol help to track bomb suspect

Thailand has asked Interpol for help in tracking down the man they believe planted a bomb in Bangkok that killed 20 people, sending the international police organization an image of the suspected bomber. The military government was initially reluctant in asking for outside help in the investigation of the blast at a famous shrine on Monday evening that killed 20 people and wounded scores. “We sent a request for assistance,” deputy national police spokesman Kissana Phathancharoen told Reuters. There has been

no claim of responsibility center intersection is and police have not popular with tourists determined a motive from China and other for the worst ever bomb East Asian countries. About half the victims attack in Thailand. Police suspect were foreigners. The government the young man caught in grainy footage leaving a says the attack was backpack at the crowded aimed at undermining shrine shortly before the Thailand’s economy. Prime Minister explosion is foreign but Chan-ocha Kissana said Thai police Prayuth were not focused on any initially said the attack particular country or was Thailand’s problem region with their appeal and should be resolved internally. to Interpol. have “We basically Police sent in the modus issued an arrest warrant operandi (of the suspect) for an “unidentified and also the appearance foreign man” in a yellow of the suspect we’re shirt seen in the video looking for,” Kissana footage and have said investigators believe two added. The Erawan other men seen on the shrine at a main city- footage were accomplices.

Firm that vetted Snowden reaches $30M settlement with US United States Investigations Services Inc, the private firm that vetted former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, has agreed to a settlement worth at least $30 million, resolving U.S. claims connected to its background investigations. The U.S. Justice Department said on Wednesday that the settlement with USIS and its parent company, Altegrity Inc [AGRTY.UL], will resolve claims that the firm failed to perform quality control reviews in connection with its background investigations. The Justice Department said the settlement is part of a broader deal struck as part of the bankruptcy

proceeding for Altegrity, which filed for Chapter 11 in February. The deal resolves claims first asserted in a whistleblower lawsuit filed in 2011 that the Justice Department later joined. The case was separate from USIS’s review of Snowden, who lives as a fugitive in Russia after leaking documents about the NSA’s surveillance programs, or Aaron Alexis, the technology contractor who killed 12 people at the Washington Navy Yard in 2014. Nevertheless, the lawsuit came amid heightened attention to the firm, which had been the U.S. government’s largest private provider of security checks.

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Britain, France boost security to stop migrants from tunnel

CALAIS, France — Britain and France are fortifying security around the Channel Tunnel and boosting intelligence efforts against traffickers in an effort to dissuade thousands of migrants from trying to make the illegal — and sometimes deadly — undersea journey to British shores. British Home Secretary Theresa May and French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve are announcing joint policing efforts Thursday as they try to overcome diplomatic tensions around Calais, a flashpoint in a European summer marked by unusually large waves of migrants. Higher fences, surveillance cameras, floodlighting and infrared detection technology are some of the ways they’re trying to deter migrants from the treacherous journey. Since the start of June, at least 10 migrants have died trying to sneak through the Channel Tunnel in hopes of finding prosperity in Britain. Countless others have slipped through undetected on trucks and one recently on foot. Britain and

France have accused each other of not doing enough to manage the migrants. An estimated 3,000 migrants are camped in Calais with more arriving daily, drawing intense political attention in Britain. Elsewhere in Europe this year, Germany has seen 360,000 migrants arrive and 160,000 migrants have reached Greek shores. May insisted on the importance of distinguishing between refugees fleeing war and repression and migrants coming illegally to seek better economic prospects. She stressed the global nature of the current crisis. “This is not just a problem that starts here in Calais. It’s a problem that starts elsewhere in the world with migrants trying to come abroad with organized criminal gangs,” she said Thursday at the tunnel entrance, which she visited with her French counterpart. The two countries are creating a joint police command center run by police from both countries to better coordinate intelligence to disrupt migrant trafficking gangs. The French

government has dismantled 120 trafficking networks this year, Cazeneuve said. No cost has been announced for the new measures. There are now about 400 surveillance cameras, 200 French guards and 500 other French security forces surrounding the area near the entrance to the tunnel, according to British officials. Britain has financed fourmeter-high (13-feet) border fences that Eurotunnel spokesman Romain Dufour says have reduced migrant storming considerably. The number of attempted tunnel crossings has dropped to about 150 a night since emergency security measures were put in place, down from a height of about 2,000 in late July, Eurotunnel says. France will also strengthen support for aid groups and local officials helping the most vulnerable migrants, Cazeneuve’s office said. The minister emphasized the “human dramas” driving people to make the treacherous journey. Cazeneuve heads later Thursday to Germany for more talks on migration.

ISIS beheads aging Syrian antiquities scholar DAMASCUS, Syria — The 81-year-old antiquities scholar had dedicated his life to exploring and overseeing Syria’s ancient ruins of Palmyra, one of the Middle East’s most spectacular archaeological sites. He even named his daughter after Zenobia, the queen that ruled from the city 1,700 years ago. That dedication may have cost him his life. On Wednesday, relatives and witnesses said Khaled al-Asaad was beheaded by Islamic State militants, his bloodied body hung on a pole in a main square. Antiquities officials said they believed IS militants had interrogated al-Asaad, a long-time director of the site, trying to get him to divulge where authorities had hidden treasures secreted out of Palmyra before the extremists seized the ruins last spring. The brutal killing stunned Syria’s archaeological community and underscored fears the extremists will destroy or loot the 2,000-year-old Roman-era city on the edge of a modern town of the same name, as they have other major archaeological sites in Syria and Iraq. “We have lost not just a scholar of archaeology but one of the pillars of archaeology in the 20th century,” said Ahmad Ferzat Taraqji, a 56-year-old antiquities expert and friend of the victim. The Sunni extremists, who have imposed a violent interpretation of Islamic law

Khaled al-Asaad was beheaded by Islamic State militants, his bloodied body hung on a pole in a main square across the territory they control the scholar three weeks ago, alin Syria and Iraq, claim ancient Homsi said, speaking on condition relics promote idolatry and say his real name not be used for they are destroying them as part fear of reprisals from IS and the of their purge of paganism — Syrian government. though they are also believed to On Tuesday, al-Homsi sell off looted antiquities, bringing watched as al-Asaad was brought in significant sums of cash. in a van to a main square near Known as “Mr. Palmyra” a vegetable market packed with among Syrian antiquities experts shoppers. Dressed in ordinary for his authoritative knowledge clothes and not the orange and decades administering the jumpsuits worn by other hostages site, al-Asaad refused to leave before they were beheaded, aleven after IS militants captured Asaad stood as a militant read the town and neighboring ruins in out five accusations against May. him, including that he was the The Palmyra site was al- “director of idols,” represented Asaad’s life, said his nephew, an Syria “at infidel conferences” and opposition activist who uses the visited Shiite powerhouse Iran. name Khaled al-Homsi. Even Then another militant when he could no longer go to pulled out a knife, at which point the Roman ruins because of his al-Homsi said he left the square, advanced age, al-Asaad lived unable to watch. Al-Asaad’s body nearby, “and he could see the was later hung from a pole on a archaeological site from his house,” main street, a paper outlining the al-Homsi told The Associated “charges” against hung around his Press. waist. IS extremists detained

Mexican government dismisses Trump border, migration plan MEXICO CITY — The Mexican government criticized Donald Trump’s policy proposals on immigration, border security and U.S.-Mexico relations Wednesday, saying they were tainted by bigotry. The Foreign Relations Department said in emailed comments that the GOP candidate’s stances “reflect prejudice, racism or plain ignorance.” Trump this week outlined proposals to deny citizenship to U.S.-born babies of immigrants living in the United States illegally as part of a plan emphasizing border security and millions of deportations. He also says he would build a wall along the U.S. southern border and force Mexico to pay for it. “Anyone who understands the depth of the U.S.-Mexico relationship (realizes) that those proposals are not only prejudiced and absurd, but would be detrimental to the well-being of both societies,” the Foreign Relations Department said. It added that Mexican migrants make significant contributions to the U.S. economy and society, and said net migration from the country to the United States has reached zero in recent years.

El Salvador: 125 killings in 3 days as gang violence soars SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador — At least 125 people have been killed in El Salvador in the last three days, authorities said Wednesday as a wave of violence continues to plague the Central American nation. National Police deputy director Howard Cotto reported that 40 people were slain on Sunday, 42 on Monday and 43 on Tuesday. An anti-crime crackdown has led gangs to ramp up violence and many of the killings are related to internal purges or turf wars between rivals, Justice and Public Security Minister Benito Lara said. Cotto said most of the victims are believed to be “gang members who in some way have betrayed the gangs and are murdered by those same groups.” Authorities say gangs are trying to pressure the government into negotiating a truce like a previous one in 2012, during which homicide rates fell notably. The truce has since fallen apart. The government has said it will not negotiate with criminals or give in to gang demands that their leaders be transferred out of a maximum-security prison. Lara said the country of 6 million people is confronting “a very complicated situation.”

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WORLD NEWS

US Secret Service to hire 1,100 staff

Facing accusations that it cannot adequately protect the White House, the U.S. Secret Service plans to hire 1,100 more officers and agents for an agency besieged by embarrassing scandals and security lapses, two law enforcement sources with direct knowledge of the plans said. The addition of 700 uniformed division officers and 400 agents over five years would expand its staff of 6,647 by nearly 17 percent, the biggest hiring increase in more than a decade at the 150-year-old agency whose job it is to protect the president, his family, and senior officials, along with fighting financial crime. The Secret Service is trying to rebound from a leadership crisis and mend a culture of covering up mistakes that some trace back 12 years to when it was pulled out of the Treasury Department and absorbed into the sprawling new Department of Homeland Security, where it had to compete for turf and money. The Secret Service confirmed it was “conducting an aggressive hiring initiative over the next few years” but declined to comment on the number of planned hires. Secret Service spokeswoman Nicole Mainor said the “hiring campaign is the result of attrition, anticipated growth and in response to recommendations” by a panel formed last year after a man jumped the White House fence in September, ran across the lawn and made it into the mansion before he was stopped. A bill passed in the U.S. House of Representatives in July required the

US President Barack Obama (L), surrounded by US Secret Service agents agency to hire at least 200 uniformed division officers and 85 special agents. The law enforcement sources said the expanded five-year hiring would begin at the start of the new fiscal year in October. The Secret Service first began the work of presidential protection in 1901 after the assassination of President William McKinley. In recent years, its mandate has grown to include investigations of cyber theft, credit card fraud and hacking attacks on financial, banking and telecommunications infrastructure. Over the past decade, the agency’s manpower levels stagnated and its funding increases failed to keep pace with growth in overall federal spending, Secret Service budget data show. Uniformed division officers are mainly based in Washington and

are responsible for the security of the White House and the vice president’s residence. Agents, who require more education and training, are assigned to criminal investigations and guarding the president whenever he is in public. AGENT MISCONDUCT Allegations involving agent misconduct and security lapses have been piling up, including a March 4 incident in which two senior agents, after a night of drinking, drove into a White House barricade inches away from a suspicious package that was being investigated as a possible bomb. The agency’s director was not notified of that incident for several days. The Secret Service has also been criticized as being too insular by an independent panel appointed after an incident in which a knife-carrying

Hackers expose millions on cheating site; some in US gov’t LONDON — Hackers say they have exposed unfaithful partners across the world, posting what they said were the personal details of millions of people registered with cheating website Ashley Madison. A message posted by the hackers alongside their massive trove accused Ashley Madison’s owners of deceit and incompetence and said the company had refused to bow to their demands to close the site. “Now everyone gets to see their data,” the statement said. Ashley Madison has long courted attention with its claim to be the Internet’s leading facilitator of extramarital liaisons, boasting of having nearly 39 million members and that “thousands of cheating wives and cheating husbands sign up every day looking for an affair.” Its owner, Torontobased Avid Life Media Inc., has previously acknowledged suffering an electronic break-in and said in a statement Tuesday it was investigating the hackers’ claim. U.S. and Canadian law enforcement are involved in the probe, the company said. The Associated Press wasn’t immediately able to determine the authenticity of

A photo showing Ashley Madison’s Korean web site on a computer screen in Seoul, South Korea. Hackers claim to have leaked a massive database of users from Ashley Madison, a matchmaking website for cheating spouses. the leaked files, although many The prospect of millions analysts who have scanned the of adulterous partners being data believe it is genuine. publicly shamed drew widespread TrustedSec Chief Executive Dave attention but the sheer size of Kennedy said the information the database — and the technical dump included full names, savvy needed to navigate it — passwords, street addresses, means it’s unlikely to lead to an credit card information and “an immediate rush to divorce courts. extensive amount of internal data.” “Unless this Ashley In a separate blog, Errata Security Madison information becomes Chief Executive Rob Graham said very easily accessible and the information released included searchable, I think it is unlikely details such as users’ height, that anyone but the most paranoid weight and GPS coordinates. He or suspecting spouses will bother said men outnumbered women on to seek out this information,” New the service five-to-one. York divorce attorney Michael Avid Life Media declined DiFalco said in an email. “There to comment Wednesday beyond its are much simpler ways to confirm statement. The hackers also didn’t their suspicions.” immediately return emails.

man jumped a fence and ran into the White House last September in one of the worst security breaches since President Barack Obama took office in 2009. That led to the resignation of its previous director, Julia Pierson, hired a year earlier to clean up the agency after a 2012 scandal in which agents paid prostitutes and visited strip clubs in Cartagena, Colombia. There was a security lapse in 2011 when a man hit the White House with automatic rifle fire, although the damage was not discovered until four days later. In 2014, a private security contractor with a gun shared an elevator with Obama in violation of security protocol while he was on a trip to Atlanta. Joseph Clancy, who has led the service since October, has faced intense pressure by Congress to turn the Secret Service around and address questions over whether its divided mission is diverting attention from providing security for the president. As part of a turnaround plan, the House of Representatives in July passed the 2015 Secret Service Improvements Act. The bill, which is awaiting Senate approval, would also require more training for Secret Service personnel. The hiring plan also coincides with a projected 16 percent increase in the Secret Service’s budget to $2.2 billion in the 2016 fiscal year, its biggest budget since entering the Department of Homeland Security.

Music boosts recovery from surgery, reduces pain Listening to music before, during and after surgery reduces patients’ pain, eases anxiety and lessens the need for painkillers, British scientists said on Thursday. After reviewing evidence from around 7,000 patients, the scientists said people going for surgery should be allowed to choose the music they’d like to hear to maximize the benefit. But they also warned that the music should not interfere with the medical team’s communication during an operation. “Music is a non-invasive, safe, cheap intervention that should be available to everyone undergoing surgery,” said Catherine Meads from Brunel University, who co-led the research. The team conducted a meta-analysis of all published randomized trials looking at how music compares with standard care or other non-drug interventions such as massage and relaxation in effecting recovery of adults after operations. The results, published in The Lancet journal, found patients were significantly less anxious after surgery and reported more satisfaction after listening to music. They also needed less pain medication and reported less pain compared with controls. While the study found listening to music at any time seemed effective, there was a trend for better outcomes if patients listened to music before surgery rather than during or after. And when patients selected their own music, there was a slightly greater reduction in pain and in use of pain relief.

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FDA approves female sex pill, but with safety restrictions WASHINGTON — The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday approved the first prescription drug designed to boost sexual desire in women, a milestone long sought by a pharmaceutical industry eager to replicate the blockbuster success of impotence drugs for men. But stringent safety measures on the daily pill called Addyi mean it will probably never achieve the sales of Viagra, which has generated billions of dollars since the late 1990s. The drug’s label will bear a boxed warning — the most serious type — alerting doctors and patients to the risks of dangerously low blood pressure and fainting, especially when the pill is combined with alcohol. The same problems can occur when taking the drug with other commonly prescribed medications, including antifungals used to treat yeast infections. “Patients and prescribers should fully understand the risks associated with the use of Addyi before considering treatment,” said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA’s drug center, in a statement. Under an FDA-imposed safety plan, doctors will only be able to prescribe Addyi after completing an online certification process that requires counseling patients about Addyi’s risks. Pharmacists will also need certification and will be required to remind patients not to drink alcohol

while taking the drug. Opponents of the drug say it’s not worth the side effects, which also include nausea, drowsiness and A tablet of flibanserin pictured on a brochure. The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday, Aug. 18, dizziness. They point out that the FDA 2015, approved the first prescription drug designed to boost sexual desire in women, a milestone rejected the drug twice, in 2010 and long sought by a pharmaceutical industry eager to replicate the blockbuster success of impotence 2013, due to these risks. drugs for men. “This is not a drug you take an hour before you have sex. You have to launch in mid-October, doctors who see modest benefits warrant taking a take it for weeks and months in order patients complaining about a loss of psychiatric pill on a daily basis. to see any benefit at all,” said Leonore sexual appetite will have a new option. Company trials showed Tiefer, a psychologist and sex therapist “Women are grasping, and I feel like women taking the drug generally who organized a petition last month we need to offer them something that reported one extra “sexually satisfying calling on the FDA to reject the drug. acknowledges that, and that we can event” per month, and scored higher on Patients should stop taking feel safe and comfortable with,” said questionnaires measuring desire. the drug after eight weeks if they do Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, a surgeon and Tiefer and other critics said not see any improvement, notes the official with the American Congress the FDA was pressured into approving FDA release. of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. the drug by a feminist-themed lobbying Sprout Pharmaceutical’s drug Iglesia said she has occasionally campaign funded by Sprout and other is intended to treat women who report resorted to prescribing testosterone drugmakers. emotional stress due to a lack of libido. creams to boost women’s libido, a use “It’s just a mishmash of politics Its approval marks a turnaround for not approved by the FDA. and science and sex and money,” Tiefer the FDA, which previously rejected The search for a pill to treat said. the drug twice due to lackluster women’s sexual difficulties has been The lobbying group, dubbed effectiveness and side effects. The something of a holy grail for the Even the Score, began publicizing decision represents a compromise of pharmaceutical industry. It was the lack of drugs for female sexual sorts between two camps that have pursued and later abandoned by Pfizer, dysfunction as a women’s rights issue publicly feuded over the drug for years. Bayer and Procter & Gamble, among last year. On one side, Sprout and its supporters others. But drugs that act on blood “Women deserve equal have argued that women desperately flow, hormones and other biological treatment when it comes to sex,” the need FDA-approved medicines to treat functions all proved ineffective. group states in an online petition to the sexual problems. On the other side, Addyi, known generically as FDA, which attracted more than 60,000 safety advocates and pharmaceutical flibanserin, is the first drug that acts supporters. Women’s groups, including critics warn that Addyi is a problem- on brain chemicals that affect mood the National Organization for Women, prone drug for a questionable medical and appetite. signed on to the effort, though it was condition. Women and their doctors will funded by Sprout and other companies Beginning with the drug’s have to decide whether the drug’s working on female sex drugs.

Times Square’s topless women should be regulated, Mayor says

So-called desnudas, covered by little more than body paint, have drawn complaints about their solicitation of payment to pose for pictures in Times Square. Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Tuesday that he sees the women parading around Times Square covered in little but body paint not as creative artists, but as pushy panhandlers whose efforts to separate tourists from their money should be regulated. The topless women, known as desnudas, have attracted more scrutiny than usual this summer amid complaints about their aggressive solicitation of payment to pose for pictures. Mr. de Blasio placed them in the same category as the gaggle of costumed characters that have become nearly synonymous with predatory panhandling in and around Times Square. “It’s wrong,” Mr. de Blasio said of the topless women’s tactics, during a news conference. “We are going to look for every appropriate way to regulate all activity that involves either begging, or asking people for a contribution based on, you know, the opportunity to take a picture, for example.” The mayor added, “I don’t like the situation

in Times Square Still, Mr. de Blasio acknowledged that reining in the desnudas was complicated by the protections afforded to artistic expression by the First Amendment. “That doesn’t mean we can’t find legislative and regulatory solutions that still fall within constitutional protections,” he said. The mayor’s staff declined to provide any details about what restrictions he is considering, saying that lawyers were still studying the issue. Toplessness is legal in New York; aggressive panhandling is not. Corey Johnson, a City Council member whose district includes Times Square, said that he and another councilman, Daniel R. Garodnick, were working on a bill that would limit when and where the desnudas and costumed characters could ply their trade. Mr. Johnson said on Tuesday that the model would be the “time, place and manner restrictions” the city has placed on street vendors in crowded areas of certain parks, including Central Park and Union Square Park. Those rules created designated spots for a limited number of sketch artists and other street vendors to set up. Mr. Johnson said the goal was not to rid Times Square of the characters and other street hustlers but to rein them in so they do not drive away the throngs of tourists. “People come to Times Square from all over the world because it is a little quirky and slightly chaotic and because there’s some allure to that,” Mr. Johnson said. “But if it becomes unsafe and creepy, that becomes a problem that we have to address.”

91-year-old man charged with importing cocaine SYDNEY — A 91-year-old retired surgeon has been charged with importing cocaine hidden in soap into Australia, prompting police to warn travelers to beware they are not tricked into becoming drug mules. Victor Twartz, of Sydney, was released on bail when he appeared in Sydney’s Downing Center Local Court charged with importing a commercial quantity of cocaine last month. He did not enter a plea and will appear in court next on Oct. 6. The retired oral surgeon faces a potential life prison sentence if he is convicted of importing 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds) of the drug into Sydney Airport on a July 8 flight from New Delhi. A search of Twartz’s luggage found 27 packages of soap that tested positive for cocaine, police said. Police say it appears that Twartz was scammed by a group of people he had befriended online before his trip. Australian Federal Police organized crime commander David Stewart declined to say whether Twartz had been promised anything by the group, but said he had been in contact with them over several months. Police were tipped off by Twartz’s family about the email exchanges but did not stop him from leaving Australia, Stewart said. “There is certainly some evidence to suggest that this man was legitimately scammed by this group and exploited,” Stewart told reporters. “There were warnings issued to him about his activities both here and overseas ... but you can only provide people with certain warnings. At the

This photo released by the Australian Federal Police shows bars of soap filled with cocaine seized from a 91-year-old retired surgeon as he returned home from India. end of the day, they’ll make their own choices.” Twartz told Australian Broadcasting Corp. that he met people in New Delhi whom he had befriended online. As he was about to board his plane to return to Sydney, he was handed a bag that he was told contained gifts for someone in Australia, he said. As Twartz left court on Tuesday, a reporter asked if he had been taken advantage of. Twartz replied: “Always, always.” Australian Federal Police manager Wayne Buchhorn warned that unwittingly bringing drugs into Australia could result in charges.

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TECHNOLOGY

Samsung unveils highend phones in search of sales boost

A product expert holds a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ at the product’s launch event in New York August 13, 2015. Samsung Electronics Co Ltd unveiled a new Galaxy Note phablet and a larger version of its curved-screen S6 edge smartphone, marking a fresh bid by the South Korean company to revive momentum in its handset business. Samsung is the world’s top smartphone maker but its market share fell in the second quarter when the company released its critically acclaimed S6 models, squeezed by Apple Inc’s upscale iPhones and cheaper offerings from Chinese rivals such as Huawei Technologies Co Ltd. The manufacturer responded with S6 price cuts and moving up the Note unveiling from its usual early September spot, ahead of the latest iPhone launch expected in September.

The event announcing the new gadgets was attended by more than 1,000 people, almost filling the Alice Tully Hall at the Lincoln Center in New York. Samsung has made several hardware changes for the new devices, including a faster processor for the Galaxy Note 5 and increasing the screen size of the S6 edge+ to 5.7 inches from 5.1 inches on the S6 edge. Samsung has high hopes for the Note. “Each new version has been more popular than the last,” said Justin Denison, vice president of product strategy and marketing for Samsung Electronics America. Both are powered by Samsung’s Exynos chips, the company said. The phones will go on

sale on Aug. 21 in the United States and Canada. They will be available on the four major carriers: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint. One expert said he was not sure how well the phones would help Samsung’s efforts in the competitive smartphone market. The phones were not different enough, said Jonathan Roubini, editor-in-chief of Lab Reviews, “So that’s why it’s very hard for them to gain that market share from Apple.” Roubini said that they may frustrate Android users. “The phone looks very cool, but you cannot change the battery, and you cannot add memory to it.” Samsung shares closed at 1,140,000 won on Thursday, down 1.21 percent. Samsung also said its mobile payment service Samsung Pay will launch on Aug. 20 in South Korea and Sept. 28 in the United States. Samsung Pay lets users make payments by having phones send signals to existing magnetic stripe card readers, offering greater store coverage than Apple’s Apple Pay service which requires retailers to install compatible equipment. The payments service will expand to the United Kingdom, Spain and China, the company said, without giving dates.

Apple to delay live TV service to next year Apple Inc will delay its live TV service to at least next year, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the iPhone maker’s plans. The company had planned to introduce the service, which is delivered over the Internet, this year. Discussions with

broadcasters such as CBS Corp and Twenty-First Century Fox Inc to license programming are progressing slowly, and lack of content has led Apple to scrap plans to announce the service at a Sept. 9 event, Bloomberg said. Apple also lacked the computer network capacity to ensure a good viewing

experience, Bloomberg said. The company still plans to introduce a more powerful version of its Apple TV set-top box at the event, which will be held in San Francisco. Apple was aiming to price the new service at about $30 to $40 a month, media reports have said.

Google launches Wi-Fi router for home use

Google launched a smart Wi-Fi router that might actually excite you Google Inc launched a Wi-Fi router on Tuesday, the latest move in the company’s efforts to get ready for the connected home and draw more users to its services. The cylinder-shaped router, named OnHub, can be pre-ordered for $199.99 at online retailers including the Google Store, Amazon.com Inc and Walmart.com. The router comes with in-built antennas that will scan the airwaves to spot the fastest connection, Google said in a blog post. With the router, users will be able to prioritize a device so that they can get the fastest Internet speeds for data-heavy activities such as downloading content or streaming a movie. The router can be hooked up with Google’s On app, available on Android and iOS, to run network checks and keep track of bandwidth use among other things. Google said OnHub automatically updates with new features and the latest security upgrades, just like the company’s Android OS and Chrome browser. The router is being manufactured by network company TP-LINK, Google said, hinting that ASUS could be the second manufacturing partner for the product. The product launch comes days after Google restructured itself by creating Alphabet Inc, a holding company to pool its many subsidiaries and separate the core web advertising business from newer ventures like driverless cars. Making products for the smart home is one such venture. Google last year bought Nest, a smart thermostat maker, for $3.2 billion, aiming to lead the way on how household devices link to each other and to electricity grids. The global market for “Internet of Things”, the concept of connecting household devices to the Internet, will nearly triple to $1.7 trillion by 2020, research firm International Data Corp said in June. Technology firms including Intel Corp , Cisco Systems, Samsung Electronics and telecom giants Vodafone and Verizon are betting heavily on Internet device-connected homes for future revenue and profit.

Jobless claims edge up; labor market still improving

The number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits unexpectedly rose last week, but the trend remained consistent with solid labor market momentum that could keep the Federal Reserve on track to raise interest rates this year. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits increased 4,000 to a seasonally adjusted 277,000 for the week ended Aug. 15, the Labor Department said on Thursday.

Claims for the prior week were revised to show 1,000 fewer applications received than previously reported. Economists had forecast claims slipping to 272,000 last week. A Labor Department analyst said there were no special factors influencing the data and no states had been estimated. Prices for U.S. Treasuries fell slightly after the data, while stock index futures were pointing to a lower open on Wall Street. The dollar dipped against a basket of currencies.

Minutes from the Fed’s July 28-29 policy meeting published on Wednesday showed the U.S. central bank upbeat on improving labor market conditions, but worried about persistently tame inflation and a weak global economy. Economists believe that policymakers’ concerns about low price pressures have raised the bar for a September interest rate hike. Futures markets on Wednesday trimmed bets for monetary policy tightening

next month. August’s employment report. The four-week moving The four-week average of average of claims, considered claims fell 7,000 between a better measure of labor the July and August survey market trends as it irons out periods, suggesting another week-to-week volatility, rose month of healthy job gains. 5,500 to 271,500 last week. Payrolls increased It was the 21st by 215,000 jobs in July. So straight week that the four- far this year, job gains have week average remained below exceeded 200,000 in five out the 300,000 threshold, which of seven months. At a sevenis usually associated with a year low of 5.3 percent, the unemployment rate is near strengthening labor market. The claims data covered the the 5.0 percent to 5.2 percent week that the government range that most Fed officials surveyed employers for the think is consistent with full non-farm payrolls portion of employment.

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Citigroup to return $4.5 million more in fee overcharges

Citigroup Global Markets Inc (CGMI), a unit of Citigroup Inc, has agreed with the New York attorney general to return $4.5 million in account management fees charged on some 15,000 frozen accounts. As a result of the agreement, a total of more than $20 million will be refunded to Citi customers for overcharges in an

investigation initiated by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. In October, CGMI agreed return some $16 million to more than 31,000 customers who paid higher advisory fees than they had negotiated. The latest overcharges are set to be announced on Wednesday. “We are pleased

Target’s quarterly sales outlook disappoints Target Corp forecast disappointing sales for this quarter and said it expected consumer demand to remain choppy, causing its shares to give up early gains. Earlier on Wednesday, the fourthlargest U.S. retailer reported a higher-thanexpected quarterly profit and raised its fullyear earnings forecast, citing strong demand for clothing and other merchandise at the center of its growth plan. Chief Operating Officer John Mulligan said on a conference call with analysts that he expected sales at stores open at least a year to increase 1 percent to 2 percent this quarter, including digital sales growth of about 30 percent. Analysts called the comparable sales estimate conservative. Target’s samestore sales rose 2.4 percent in the second quarter ended on Aug. 1, which research firm Consensus Metrix said beat market expectations of 2.2 percent. A 30 percent rise in digital

sales contributed 0.6 percentage points. Target also said it urgently needed to adjust inventory levels so that its shelves are sufficiently stocked. In the year since Brian Cornell became chief executive officer, Target has been promoting a narrower set of “signature” products including apparel, baby products and wellness items including organic goods. Sales of those products increased three times faster than the company average during the second quarter ended on Aug. 1, Mulligan said. Under Cornell, Target has also reshuffled its management, exited its struggling Canadian operations and spent more on online sales. In March, Cornell announced a restructuring plan to eliminate several thousand corporate jobs and revamp grocery operations. It also included a $1 billion investment in technology in areas such as supply chain.

to work with the New York Attorney General on this matter,” a Citigroup spokesman said in an email. “We deeply regret the inconvenience to our clients, who will be reimbursed with interest.” Customers did not receive fee rebates they were entitled to when their accounts were frozen, according to the attorney general’s office.

Accounts can be frozen for a variety of reasons, the office said, and in some cases, customers should not have been charged fees. CGMI sometimes rebated the fees when requested, an internal review found, and procedures weren’t in place to determine when they were appropriate. As part of the October agreement, CGMI agreed to conduct an internal review of

other types of accounts, which is how the bank identified the overcharges related to periods of inactivity. The New York attorney general began his investigation of CGMI in 2012 after a complaint from a customer in Westchester, New York, who had negotiated a 1.2 percent fee, but was charged 1.5 percent, costing her more than $3,000 over three years.

Airline fares dampen US consumer prices in July U.S. consumer prices rose only slightly in July as airline fares recorded their biggest drop since 1995, but tame inflation will probably not discourage the Federal Reserve from raising interest rates this year amid signs of an improving economy. A tightening labor market and firming housing sector, where prices are on the rise, should give the U.S. central bank confidence that inflation will gradually move toward its 2 percent target, economists said. “Fed officials made clear that they do not need to see higher inflation before hiking. They just need to have reasonable confidence it will return to mandate,” said Michelle Girard, chief economist at RBS in Stamford, Connecticut. The Labor Department said on Wednesday its Consumer Price Index edged up 0.1 percent last month, also as gasoline and food prices increased marginally. July’s rise in the CPI was a slowdown from the 0.3 percent gain in June but marked a sixth straight month of increase in the index. In the 12 months through July, the CPI climbed 0.2 percent. It was the second month the annual CPI increased after plunging crude oil prices pushed it into negative terrain in January. Signs of an ebb in the

disinflationary trend, combined with easing labor market slack and a pickup in economic growth are likely to be welcomed by policymakers. At 5.3 percent, the unemployment rate is near the 5.0 percent to 5.2 percent range most Fed officials think is consistent with a steady but low level of inflation. The economy grew at a 2.3 percent annual pace in the second quarter and appears to have sustained the momentum early in the third quarter. GRADUAL RATE HIKES Most economists expect the Fed will raise its short-term interest rate next month for the first time in almost a decade. But the pace of monetary tightening is likely to be gradual given the dampening effect on inflation of a strong dollar, renewed weakness in oil and other commodity prices, and China’s devaluation of the yuan, which should push down import prices. “The low inflation profile will certainly keep the Fed communicating a gradual glide path, but little in the July CPI report suggests that hikes should be delayed,” said Gennadiy Goldberg, an economist at TD Securities in New York. Goldberg noted that the

six-month annualized pace of the CPI accelerated to 2.9 percent from 1.3 percent in June. Prices for shorterdated U.S. Treasury debt prices were mostly flat, while the dollar slipped against a basket of currencies. Stocks on Wall Street fell as concerns about the Chinese economy hurt energy and commodity shares. Although the so-called core CPI, which strips out food and energy costs, rose only 0.1 percent last month, that was largely because of the 5.6 percent decline in airline fares. Economists expect the drop in air ticket prices, which was the largest since December 1995, will be temporary. Housing costs shot up 0.4 percent, the biggest increase since February 2007. That was on top of a 0.3 percent gain in June. With the rental vacancy rate near a 22-year low, housing costs are likely to continue pushing higher, which should support underlying inflation. In the 12 months through July, the core CPI increased 1.8 percent. It was the fourth time in five months that the 12-month change was 1.8 percent. Apparel prices increased after three straight months of declines. Prices for used cars and trucks and household furnishings and new motor vehicles fell last month.

US housing regulator targets more support for poor borrowers The regulator for U.S. housing finance giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac told the two firms on Wednesday to provide more support to lowincome Americans taking out mortgages and refinancing home loans. The Federal Housing Finance Agency released goals for the two governmentcontrolled firms for 2015-2017 that would advance agency chief Mel Watt’s aim to widen access to housing credit. The rules direct Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to expand the number of loans they back for low-income families to 24

percent of the their purchases of single-family home mortgages over the period, up from a target of 23 percent in 2014. FHFA also asked each firm to make mortgages refinanced by low-income families a bigger share of their refinancing purchases, and to increase the number of mortgages they buy for multifamily properties each year. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been controlled by the U.S. government since taxpayers bailed them out in 2008 during the housing market implosion. The two firms don’t

lend money directly, but buy mortgages from lenders and sell them as packaged securities with a government guarantee. They back most new U.S. mortgages, and their purchases are a major driver of credit access. Boosting support for low-income borrowers, however, could stir controversy in the U.S. Congress. Many Republican lawmakers think Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac contributed to the housing bubble and 2007-2009 financial crisis with policies aimed at supporting mortgage access for the poor.

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IMF freezes benchmark currency basket

The International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday it will freeze its benchmark currency basket until October 2016, giving markets more time to adjust to the possible addition of China’s yuan as part of a review of global reserve currencies. The IMF board is scheduled to decide in November whether the yuan will join the Special Drawing Rights basket. Beijing loosened government controls on the yuan this month, allowing its value to fall sharply. The IMF saw the policy shift as a step toward a freer exchange rate, potentially setting the stage for the yuan to become part of the SDR basket. The decision announced in a statement on Wednesday, however, would defer the implementation of any move to include the yuan. Beijing, keen for its currency to have equal billing with the euro, yen, pound and dollar, has been pushing for the yuan to be included in the SDR

Foreign currency banknotes are placed on a basket for counting basket, which determines the mix of currencies that countries like Greece receive as IMF disbursements. The United States, which is the IMF’s largest shareholder, has not said if it will support the yuan’s inclusion. China’s currency policies have been a bugbear between the two countries since China devalued the yuan in the 1990s and unleashed a

IRS says cyber attacks more extensive than previously thought

Computer keyboard letters stacked in the word ‘pass’ are placed on the plate of integrated circuit in this illustration picture The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) said Monday a hacking attack into one of its computer databases revealed in May was much more extensive than previously thought, with nearly three times as many taxpayers hit by data theft. The IRS said in late May the tax return information of about 114,000 U.S. taxpayers had been illegally accessed by cyber criminals over the preceding four months, with another 111,000 unsuccessful attempts made. A new review has identified 220,000 additional incidents where data was breached, the tax collection agency said. It identified another 170,000 suspected failed attempts by third parties to gain access to taxpayer data. The attackers sought to gain access to personal tax information through the agency’s “Get Transcript” online application, which allowed taxpayers to call up information from

previous returns. The system was shut down after the May attacks. “The IRS believes some of this information may have been gathered for potentially filing fraudulent tax returns during the upcoming 2016 filing season,” the agency said in a statement. It added that it will soon begin mailing letters in the next few days to the taxpayers whose accounts may have been accessed, offering them free credit monitoring and a new personal identification number to verify the authenticity of next year’s tax returns. In May, the agency said that as a result of the breach, some 15,000 fraudulent returns were processed in the 2015 tax filing season, likely resulting in refunds of less than $50 million. An IRS official said the agency was reviewing whether the number of fraudulent returns had grown due to the more extensive data breaches, but that requires a manual review of the individual returns.

flood of exports to the United States. This month’s yuan devaluation could help China’s slowing economy but raised hackles from U.S. manufacturers. To be included in the SDR basket, IMF policymakers must decide the yuan is “freely usable,” or widely used to make international payments and widely traded in foreign exchange

markets. An IMF staff report released earlier this month, which recommended extending the basket, showed that although the currency is increasingly used in cross-border transactions and heavily traded in Asia, it is only thinly traded in North America and is not commonly used in international debt securities. Staff said freezing the current basket, which had been due to expire on Dec. 31, would avoid disrupting financial market trading on the first day of the new year and give parties more lead time to adjust to any changes. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in March asked IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde to push for inclusion, saying Beijing would speed up the convertibility of the yuan and liberalize cross-border investment rules. Lagarde has said adding the yuan to the basket is a “question of when.”

Facebook struggles to sell advertising in India

Facebook is trying to lure skeptical advertisers in India with features such as free email support for questions about advertising and advice on increasing sales in a bid to boost revenue from its second biggest market. Facebook has 132 million users in India, trailing only the 193 million in the United States, according to the company, and the country is critical for the Menlo Park, California, social network’s global expansion. But so far, the payoff has been small: Facebook earns 15 cents per user in India every quarter, compared to the $7 to $8 it makes on each U.S. user, according to analysts. Facebook does not break out its revenues in India, but Neil Shah, an analyst at Counterpoint Research, a Hong Kong-based technology consulting firm, estimates it brings in $15 million a quarter, far behind the $350 million he estimates Google earns there per quarter. Google, which set up in India in 2004, has been in the Indian market six years longer than Facebook, and its search ads are more familiar to advertisers there than the display ads Facebook offers. The business-boosting features, described to Reuters by company executives and Indian business people, are aimed at advertisers such as Mohit Khattar, managing director at online grocery company Godrej Nature’s Basket,

one of the roughly 60 to 65 million small- and medium-sized businesses in the country. He said he began advertising on Facebook about two months ago as the company ramped up its online presence. He found that advertising in-store events and sales helped attract customers, but would not provide specific figures. “Since our customers are on Facebook, we are on Facebook. It’s that simple,” Khattar said. But other advertisers are still skeptical of the medium. Sumant Kasliwal, CEO of online clothing retailer 20dresses.com, uses ads on the social media site to reach potential customers between 18 and 35, but says he would prefer to advertise on TV. “In India, TV still has the most reach, so if you have the money you would want to be on that,” he said. Facebook declined to say how many staff members it has in India or how much it has invested since it launched operations there in 2010. But the world’s largest social network says it has seen early signs its efforts are working. The company unveiled a new type of ad designed specifically for India last year, called “click to missed call.” Users click a button on an ad, which automatically calls an advertiser. The user hangs up - to save them the charge for the call and the advertiser calls back with a pre-recorded message.

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AUGUST 21ST, 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AUGUST 28TH, 2015

Police arrests Mitsubishi Electric and Kischo prevail over Quality Super Kings

The Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association Summer T20 Cricket League Tournament sponsored by HAB Group, continued on Saturday and Sunday; 15th and 16th August 2015 at The Downtown Ball Park, Providenciales. On Saturday Police won the toss and chalked up a mammoth 247 runs for the loss of two (2) wickets from 20 overs. Garvin Bruno was the top scorer with a record breaking 165 runs which was decorated with 22x4 and 8x6. Ian Ganess wading in with 62

runs, 7x4 and 2x6. Bowling for Mitsubishi Electric Dax Bruton took two (2) wickets for 47 runs from 4 overs. In reply, Mitsubishi Electric reached 172 runs from 20 overs for the loss of 4 wickets. Captain Paul Collis scored an unbeaten 63 runs, 6x4 and 1x6. Imi Kassan supported with 62 runs, 8x4 and 3x6. Bowling for the Police; Lyndon Tyson, Vaurice Jervis and Garvin Bruno had a wicket a piece. Player of the match: Garvin Bruno

On Sunday, August 16th 2015 at the same venue. Kischo prevailed over the arch rivals Quality Super Kings. Kischo won the toss and inserted Quality Super Kings who then were restricted to a paltry 146 runs for 6 wickets from 20 overs. Naga Khutalingham led the way with 42 runs, 8x4 and Captain Ebbon Ceaser added 28 runs, 4x4. Bowling for Kischo; Simijoe Devassy and Sanjay Fatnani claimed two wickets each. Kischo in their chase reached

147 runs from 17 overs for the loss of 2 wickets. Jettu Ganglani top scorer with 55 runs, 8x4 and 1x6. Lloyd Linch contributed 31 runs, 4x4. Bowling for Quality Super Kings; Ian Heath and Robert Johnson took one wicket each. Player of the match: Jettu Ganglani. Meanwhile the competition will continue on Sunday, 23rd August 2015 at the Downtown Ball Park. Police will take on Kischo.

Police Team

Player of the match Garvin Bruno

Team Kishco

Player of the match Jettu Ganglani

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WORLD

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SPORTS

Sebastian Coe elected as president of world governing body for athletics

Sebastian Coe, the double Olympic champion who led the organising committee of London’s 2012 Games, has been elected as the president of the world governing body for athletics. Ahead of the world championships in Beijing and against a backdrop of doping allegations that have brought the sport to its knees, Coe defeated Ukrainian former pole vaulter Sergey Bubka and will now be tasked with restoring the reputation of the sport. Thirty-four years to the day after he broke the world mile record in Zurich Coe won by 115 to 92 of the votes on offer to become president of the International Association of Athletic Federations and will now automatically also become a member of the IOC. Afterwards Coe said that winning the IAAF presidency ranked above winning Olympic gold or delivering the London Olympics in terms of momentous moments in his life. “I think for most of us in this room we would conclude that the birth of our children are big moments in our lives and probably the biggest,” he said. “But I have to say that the opportunity to work with all of you and shape the future of our sport is probably the second biggest and momentous

decision in my life.” he said. “After so many races run, this Svein Arne Hansen of might be my last race. The decision lies European Athletics said: ‘We need to with you. I stand here humbly offering expand the fight against doping’ my service to athletics.” Read more He vowed: “There is no task I The former Tory MP, who has have been better prepared for. There is been an IAAF vice president since no job I have ever wanted to do more 2007, takes over at a crucial juncture. and to do with greater commitment. If As part of his manifesto, he you place your trust in me I will not let has promised more resources for anti- you down.” doping and an independent unit to Coe’s victory means there are avoid allegations of conflicts of interest. now British presidents of the world He has also promised to overhaul the governing bodies at the two sports athletics calendar, better promote the most heavily linked with doping in sport and make it more relevant to the public mind – Brian Cookson took young people. over as president of cycling’s world Coe, who becomes just the federation last year. Sir Craig Reedie, sixth president of the IAAF in its the British IOC member, is also 103-year history, has also promised to president of the World Anti-Doping deliver $200,000 in development funds Agency. to every member association across The IAAF’s travails were each four-year cycle. demonstrated by the fact Valentin But by far the biggest Balakhnichev, the former Russian challenge he faces is to restore public federation chief who was supposed to confidence in the sport in light of the have stepped down in wake of doping latest doping allegations. claims in February, appeared on stage By declaring that recent to present the organisation’s financial doping allegations amounted to a “war” report. on athletics he sought to appeal to the Bubka had earlier promised voters who held his fate in their hands to show “zero tolerance” to doping and but sparked criticism at home. said his most important priority would Before the vote, Coe made a be developing the sport around the final pitch to the members. “It goes world. “My doors, my heart will always without saying this is a big moment in be open. We will bring athletics to new the history of our sport. It is also, I may heights,” he promised in his speech add, a big moment for me personally,” before the vote.

Oscar Pistorius release from jail put on hold

Oscar Pistorius JOHANNESBURG— South Africa’s justice minister put on hold Wednesday the release from jail of Oscar Pistorius, just two days before the Paralympic gold medalist was scheduled to walk out of prison after serving 10 months for killing his girlfriend. Mr. Pistorius was sentenced to five years in prison

in September for the shooting death of 29-year-old model Reeva Steenkamp. In June, the parole board said it would release Mr. Pistorius to correctional supervision, which includes house arrest, after he had served one-sixth of his sentence, the minimum allowed by law. On Wednesday, however, Michael Masutha, minister of justice and correctional services, said the board’s decision had been premature and would be reviewed by the board’s oversight body. It wasn’t immediately known when the panel would convene to discuss the issue. Mr. Pistorius’ future is also clouded by the decision of prosecutors to appeal his conviction. In papers filed Monday, they argued that he should have been convicted in

September of murder rather than manslaughter—or culpable homicide, as it is known in South Africa—and serve a far longer sentence. The case is expected to be heard in November. The 28-year-old South African sports star, who rose to international fame after becoming the first athlete to compete in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012, shot Ms. Steenkamp, through a locked bathroom door at his home in Pretoria during the early hours of Valentine’s Day in 2013. She died almost instantly. During his trial, he said he believed the person in the bathroom was an intruder. Mr. Pistorius was tried for premeditated murder, but Judge Thokozile Masipa convicted him on a lesser charge of culpable homicide.

Michael Phelps narrowly misses world record in 200m IM Michael Phelps notches a time of 1:54:75 in the 200m individual medley, easily winning the race and just barely missing out on the world record and United States record - the latter being set by Phelps. Now that the year’s biggest swim meets are finished, there’s an opportunity to compare times and rank the fastest U.S. men’s swimmers per event. The top two swimmers

per event make the U.S. Olympic team at the trials next June and July, plus likely the top six from the 100m and 200m freestyles for relays. Before getting to the rankings, some notes: Michael Phelps is the only U.S. man ranked No. 1 in the world in an event, for the second straight year. Phelps posted world-leading times in the 100m butterfly, 200m butterfly and 200m individual

medley at the U.S. Championships over the weekend. There’s reason to believe that both Phelps and Ryan Lochte could be top six in the U.S. in the 100m freestyle to make the 4x100m free relay. They just didn’t swim the 100m free at top meets this summer. Their best times from 2014 (48.45 for Phelps and 48.90 for Lochte) would rank second and fifth if added to this year’s list.

Sebastian Coe Coe had claimed to have travelled 700,000km in a bid to woo voters since his candidacy was announced late last year. Bubka, in contrast, has waged a low key campaign. His manifesto pledges mirrored many of Coe’s and he instead relied on the loyalty and links in Africa, Asia and South America that he had built up over the course of 14 years involved at the federation. Coe turned down overtures to become BBC chairman and to enter the race for the London mayoralty as a Tory candidate in order to focus on leading his sport.

Belinda Bencic upsets Serena Williams in Toronto World no.1 Serena Williams was dumped out of the Rogers Cup semi-finals 3-6 7-5 6-4 by rising Swiss talent Belinda Bencic, who will meet Simona Halep in Sunday’s final after the Romanian second seed beat Sara Errani in straight sets. Saturday’s defeat was just the second in 45 matches this season for Williams, who has won the first three grand slams of the year and will be favourite for a fourth when the US Open kicks off at the end of the month. The unseeded 18-year-old, who also beat former world no.1s Caroline Wozniacki and Ana Ivanovic in Toronto, wore a look of disbelief after her forehand winner whizzed past Williams to seal the match. Bencic dropped her racket and covered her face with her hands before the tears started to flow. “I can’t believe it now,” said Bencic said. “The first set was just too fast for me, I think. But then I adapted to the game in the second set, and then I was just fighting. I mean I had 5-1 (in the third set). I’m so happy. It’s amazing.” Bencic will play for title against Halep, who beat Italian Errani 6-4 6-4 in the other semi-final. “I’m not thinking about the title right now,” said Bencic. “I have to recover from today.” There looked to be little danger for Williams as she blazed to a 5-1 lead in the opening set and took it in just 33 minutes. Bencic played much better in the final few games of the set, however, and carried that momentum into the second, where she took control after the score was tied at 3-3. Bencic built a 5-1 lead of her own in the decider but Williams then won three games in a row. The Swiss composed herself and broke the 33-yearold American to win the match.

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