OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
Website: www.suntci.com
VOLUME 11 - NO. 41
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WORK PERMIT OBJECTION
Security firms against former top cop heading competitor agency By Vivian Tyson
A
Senior Sun Editor
group of owners representing a number of security companies in the Turks and Caicos are registering their discontent with former Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar being granted a work permit to head a rival company Spence Security. The security company bosses made it clear that they were not lobbying against Spence Security, but rather, the process through which Farquhar was employed. They said that normally, after an expatriate individual parted company with government, he or she would have to wait two years before being able to take up employment in the country for a private entity. Farquhar was Commissioner of Police in Turks and Caicos Islands from March 2011 to March 2015. He was appointed chief executive officer of Spence Security in September 2015. Some of Farquhar’s employment objectors are Presidential Security, run by Wilbert Jennings; Seal Security, operated by Dante Williams; TAG Security, operated by Alboin Williams; Platinum Security, run by Greg Williams; and Dove Security, owned by Movin Swann. Top Brass Security and Elite Security are others that also object to Farquhar’s employment in the TCI. The group was also against another former senior police officer David Ryder opening a security company
TCIG GETS HIV MONITORING MACHINE: Thanks to a $16,000 donation from the Turks and Caicos Islands AIDS Awareness Foundation, the National AIDS Prevention Unit is now the proud owner of a PIMA/CD4 Analyzer machine that would be enable healthcare providers to monitor and provide effective CD4 count to those living with HIV/AIDS. The unit is to be housed at the Primary Health Lab on Providenciales under the Ministry of Health and Human Services. Micky Shoulak, Director of the TCAAF said that the organization described the presentation as one of many milestones the two entities had accomplished together. Aldora Robinson, Head of the National HIV Prevention Unit, expressed delight at receiving the instrument, saying that it was long in coming, because many unsuccessful attempts had been made in the past to acquire the machine. Peggy Samuels, Chief Technician at the National Public Health Lab, said that without the machine it was a challenge getting testing done, because such service was not offered on island. In photo, Patron of the TCAAF, Galmo “Gilley” Williams presents the instrument to Aldora Robinson. Sharing in the moment are (from left) Micky Shoulak, Anansa Jervis, Head of the Turks and Caicos Islands AIDS Awareness Foundation; Galmo Williams’ wife Althea; and Peggy Samuels.
on West Caicos shortly after demitting office as well. They claimed that Farquhar, during his time as commissioner of police, could have obtained sensitive information which he would now implement at Spence, which they asserted, could put them at a grave disadvantage. “The main concern to us is that, he may be privy to all of the inside information, government workings, even the past security bills that were about to be read in the House or passed. He was
privy to all this information, and the main issue is the fact that we now have the former commissioner of police, after leaving office, within months, is back in the Turks and Caicos Islands in a security management job,” said Jennings. He said that if the local security bosses aware that Farquhar was applying for a work permit to head any security company in the TCI, they would have challenged it. “We have come together and form a coalition to basically
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say that this deal that has been happening over the past maybe eight, nine months, we were unaware of it. As a result, we were not able to challenge it as a body. “But even now that it has already happened, our intention, as this group of security personnel here, is to make it known to the public that we have a serious problem with it. We are also saying that we should have been made aware of what was going on, because we are key stakeholders of the security
operation,” he said. The annoyed security bosses said that some of their associates have begun to complain that in recent time Spence Security has begun to approach some of their clients especially in the Grace Bay area. “We think it is unfair. The playing field for all security companies has now shifted in his favor. Why? Because he was the former commissioner of police,” said Alboin Williams. Continued on Page 2
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
WORK PERMIT OBJECTION
Continued from page - 1 The security companies operators alleged Farquhar’s work permit was initially denied, and the company challenged it. They also allege that after it went to the Governor’s Office and the AG’s Chambers, the decision was overturned. They told The SUN that had they known that such process was taking place, they would have challenged it. “We are saying that we have a serious problem with it and it should not have happened, and we should have been informed as to what’s going on,” Greg Williams said. Jennings, in the meantime, said that the group would not keep silent until someone in authority addresses the issue. “We want to send a clear message to Mr. Farquhar and to Mr. David Ryder, who were former government officials at high-ranking positions (in the police force), who were aware of all of the camera system, who were aware of the Security Association Bill, who were aware of the inside security issues that government presently need, and who are now in a position to use all of that against us, and leave the local security companies at a disadvantage,” he said. The Attorney General’s Chambers, which has been drawn into the controversy, said that it played no role for or against role in the former commissioner being granted a work permit, though its expertise on the law was sought from the Immigration Board. However, when contacted for a response, Attorney General Hon. Rhondalee Brathwaite-Knowles, said that the security managers’ story is not entirely accurate. She said the Immigration Board sought advice from her office on law as it relates to
Some of the security companies managers who are opposed to former Commissioner Colin Farquhar’s employment at Spence Security as CEO. From left – Alboin Williams, Wilbert Jennings, Greg Wiliams, Dante Williams and Movin Swann. Farquhar’s case and her office provided it, so as to give that statutory body a clear view as to what decisions to take under the law. The Attorney General added: “The information you have is simply not true. As you know, the grant of work permits is a matter for the Immigration Board. It would not be true to say that the Governor’s Office or the Attorney General’s Chambers interfered in any way with the Board’s decision on this application. Prior to their decision, the (Immigration) Board sought the views of the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police, given the fact that the applicant recently held a senior public office. Advice and guidance were provided by both the AG and the Commissioner, highlighting what the Board may wish to consider
in such circumstances. The views provided also reflected the Governor’s view. The advice and guidance are confidential, but are not/not in line with the claims of the security managers in your story.” Farquhar has over 31 years of policing and leadership experience in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the United Nations, focusing on the development and implementation of comprehensive strategies associated to community safety, international peace and security. He was formerly the Canadian Police Advisor at the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations in New York. During this time, he provided strategic advice and analysis on justice, corrections, and police issues relating to Security System Reform and integrated peace
operations. Prior to this, Farquhar served at the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) from January 2006 until January 2008 as the Deputy Commissioner for Operations and Monitoring. He was responsible for the oversight and daily management of approximately 1,500 United Nations police officers from 44 different countries. Colin initiated and managed a series of intelligenceled search operations of known gang leaders, which successfully restored justice and returned control to State authority. He has been a police officer in the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and British Columbia and I have held a variety of specialized duties
Guidelines for temporary emergency permit
The Ministry of Border there as strict guidelines governing Control and Employment wishes the issuance of TCI passport stock. to remind citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands that while there is a The following DO NOT meet requirement to submit application the criteria to have an emergency for a TCI passport in the normal temporary passport issued locally. way, locally, the actual printing of TCI passports has been transferred *the discovery of a soon to the United Kingdom. to be expired or already expired Given the implications that passport, after the purchase of an the new application process has for airline ticket, travelling at very short notice, all persons are encouraged to check the *a pre-planned business trip, validity of their passports whether vacation or doctor’s appointment there are immediate plans to travel, overseas, and or not. More importantly, the expiry dates on passports must be checked *accidental or intentional damage prior to purchasing airline tickets as to a valid passport as a result of
inattentiveness, for example spilling liquids on a passport, washing a passport in a washing machine and defacing or tearing passport pages.
Emergency temporary passports may be issued locally under the following conditions.
on compassionate grounds.
Non British Overseas Territory citizens are cautioned to be in possession of a valid travel document from their home country at all times as only British Overseas Territory Citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands qualify for a TCI passport. In the event of an emergency, nonTCI nationals are advised to contact the nearest Embassy of their home country.
*When there is contact from the hospital regarding the transfer of a patient to another country and the patient concerned is not in possession of a valid travel document. * When there is urgent business Additional information and travel by senior government officials forms may be found on the website and parliamentarians; and, * any www.gov.tc/passports other travel that may be considered
Woman charged for 6 year-old boy’s death
The Magistrates’ Court in Providenciales has set November 30, 2015, as the date that 33-yearold Darline Louis, a resident of North Caicos, to return to court for a sufficiency hearing into the death of her six-year-old son on September 29. The sufficiency hearing is to determine whether or not the matter has any merit to go to trial. Louis was charged with murder by Detectives from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force on Friday, and was taken to court the same day, where she faced Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner, who remanded her. The Police in North Caicos were alerted of the child’s death on
the night that September night, after medical personnel on that made their pronouncement. The boy’s father had initially told the media that he and his wife picked up the six-year from the Adalaide Oemler Primary School, brought him home before showering he and his smaller male sibling. Both children, according to the father, were napping before he left the house and returned to work. The father said that when he returned home that night, his younger son was up, but the older one appeared to be still sleeping. His wife, he said, was at church at the time. He said he thought initially that because was having a longer than usual nap,
he was tired. He said that about sometime after 8p.m., he attempted to wake the boy but he was unresponsive. The father further declared that he then went to the church that his wife was attending, and informed her. After many unsuccessful attempts by her to get the child to wake up, the father said that they decided to call the pastor of the church to pray for him. He said after the pastor’s efforts also failed, they decided to call the doctor, which later pronounced him dead. It is understood that teachers at the Adalaide Oemler Primary School often saw bruise marks on the child, and that he often
appeared tired and complained of pains. Such information, though, it is understood, was never passed on to the Child Services or the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, until after the boy had died. Police has not confirmed the community’s allegation that the boy might have been sexually assaulted. A police source said while they will confirm or deny such claim, they are not ruling out any possibility of such occurrences. In the meantime, The SUN understands that the deceased’s boy’s six-year-old brother is in protective custody, while the authorities decide where he should end up.
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 5
LOCAL NEWS
Kevino Smith’s family criticises Deputy Commissioner role in investigation
Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams has rubbished claims by Mavis Williams, the spokesperson for the Kevino Smith family, that not enough effort was being implemented to bring the dead man’s killers to justice. Williams, who penned a letter to The SUN this past week, said that the last meeting the family had with the police, as to the level of their investigation into the murder, yielded nothing. She said that other than telling the family that they are awaiting on further test results, the police could not say anything else. “Three weeks ago I accompanied Kevino Smith’s parents to a meeting with the then Acting Commissioner of Police, Rodney Adams. The meeting was to update the family on the status of the investigation. However, there was no update. Rodney Adams told the parents that the police are still waiting on additional test results. When asked what results they are waiting on he said he doesn’t know. “He was asked what specifically is holding up the investigation. He said he didn’t know. He was asked if the investigation was stalled due to lack of funding. He said he didn’t know. He was asked if the investigation was stalled due to lack of manpower. He said he didn’t know. “He was asked if additional financial and or human resources would speed up the investigation. He said he didn’t know. He was asked who is heading the investigation. He
said he couldn’t say. He was asked for the names of the investigative team members. He said he couldn’t say,” Williams said. Williams said that the family has now reached the point of frustration because they have no clue as to what the stage the investigation is at. “This just seemed unreal to the parents and me because I’ve accompanied the parents to just about every meeting with Rodney Adams, and he always makes sure that we know that he has “strategic oversight” over the investigation. “So I asked him how he could be leading the investigation and not have a clue (as to) what is happening. He said that he doesn’t meet with the team often and hasn’t done so recently. “After this bombshell he was asked and he agreed to meet with the investigative team to get an update on the investigation and to determine what if any additional resources are needed to speed up the testing. “This meeting took place on a Tuesday, he promised to get back to the parents and me by the Thursday. He never did and our calls went unanswered until Wednesday of this week (3 weeks later) when he finally answered a call from me,” Williams said. “She added: “I told him that I was calling to find out what was the outcome of his meeting with the investigative team. He said he has not met with them as yet as a team
Career Opportunities: Grace Bay Club 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 Refrigeration Technician (General Maintenance) Responsible for the service, repair & maintenance on all refrigeration equipment including ice machines, reach-in/walk-in coolers & freezers, air conditioning units and heating and ventilation equipment. A seasoned candidate should have knowledge of solid state controls, oil systems safety controls, mechanical sub-cooling, introduction to head pressure controls for energy reduction, introduction to energy management systems (EMS), refrigeration rack oil systems, advanced defrost diagnosis and single compressor system start-up. JOB REQUIREMENTS: •Must have a minimum of 5 years experience as a refrigeration/HVAC technician •Resort/hotel experience desired •Have a working knowledge of commercial refrigeration equipment •Must have the ability to troubleshoot & diagnose equipment in the field •Refrigeration License – HVAC journeyman’s license helpful •High School Diploma or the Equivalent •Must have a TCI driver’s license •Good mechanical & diagnostic skills •Good communication skills in English both written & oral •Self motivated, driven, honest & dependable •Physical ability to left up to 50lbs •Physical ability to climb ladders and work at high elevations •Must be available to work evenings, weekends and/or holidays as required •Respond to emergency situations during or after hours for the purposes of resolving immediate safety concerns KITCHEN STEWARD (2) Requirements: •Washes dishes, utensils and cookware following established procedures •Place clean dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment in storage areas. •Maintain kitchen work areas, equipment, and utensils in clean and orderly condition. •Assists in performing cleaning tasks as needed in the kitchen •Assists the cook(s) with food preparation as requested •Set-up and remove various F&B functions •Must be fluent in written and spoken English •Must be able to lift 50 pounds Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience Also accepting applications for: •Laundry Attendants •Housekeepers •Restaurant Servers Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than November 13, 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
nor has he spoken to individual team members. “I accused him of being unconcerned and of course he got defensive. I was really troubled by his arrogant, egotistical, don’t-give-adamn attitude, and hung up. He called back and once again promised to meet with the team and get back to me either that afternoon or Thursday the latest. Today is Saturday (October 24).” Williams is calling on Commissioner of Police, James Smith, to remove Adams as head of this investigation, saying that he has demonstrated that he does not have the interest and desire lend to the investigations what it truly requires. “Today we are fighting for justice for Patty and Bay son Kevino Smith, but it could very easily be any of our sons,” Williams said. When contacted, Deputy Commissioner Adams said that the police have been busy with the workings of the Kevino Smith murder and other investigations, and did not have time to get involved in a public debate with Williams. My position is that, I don’t have time to comment on Mrs. Williams comments, because we are too busy with Smith investigation as well as other investigations. That would be my response to it,” Adams told The SUN. Police reported that on Wednesday, March 4, 2015, about 11:45p.m., a report was made to the Grand Turk Police Station requesting
police assistance at the residence of the Ashton’s Family in Breezy Brae, Grand Turk. Two officers were reportedly dispatched to the scene, where an occupant of the residence reported to them of an alleged serious incident involving the use of a firearm, and Smith was fingered as the aggressor. The police further reported that that same night officers conducted a search around the surrounding area for the suspect, but he was not located. On Thursday, March 5, officers were called to Smith’s residence at Osbourne Road in Grand Turk, where an old unused pick-up truck was on fire, which the police, with assistance from persons in the community extinguished. Smith was not at the residence, the police said. The police said that another vehicle owned by Smith was found in Breezy Brae on Thursday, March 5, and removed to the Grand Turk Police Station for investigation purposes, and on March 6, his mother Martha ‘Patty’ Smith, reported that she had not seen Smith since March 4, and that he had apparently gone missing. On Thursday, April 16, 2015, police stumbled upon human remains believed to be that of the missing man in the Breezy Brae. The police later confirmed that the remains were that of Smith. The police said also that a number of tests would be done to determine how he died. It is understood that those tests have not returned yet.
COMMERCIAL BANKING MANAGER Job Grade: A84 Regular Full Time Managing Director’s Office, TCI
The Commercial Banking Manager manages the Bank’s Commercial Department to achieve profitable growth at acceptable risk in loans, deposits, and other commercial services. The incumbent also provides service to customers who meet the Bank’s Scotia Service and Complaint Resolution Standards. I.Key Accountabilities •Manages the Bank’s conventional credit portfolio at an acceptable level of risk while adhering to Bank’s policies and procedures; •Manages growth of the Bank’s Commercial business and contributes to the overall profitability; •Direct the effective management of customer relationships and provide high quality customer service; •Contribute to the Bank’s productivity and service; •Effectively supervise and develop subordinate staff to fill the needs of the Department and long term requirements of the Bank; •Execute the Department Compliance responsibilities as reflected in the Branch Services and Procedures Manual. II.Functional Competencies •Excellent knowledge of Commercial Banking Products and services, including working knowledge of the systems, routines and operating procedures; •Excellent credit skills and sound judgement, as demonstrated through his/her previous track record and experience; •Excellent risk assessment and analytical skills; •Excellent accounting and financial analysis skills; •Knowledge of completion and registration/renewal policies and procedures for security documents, and of procedures and standards for correspondence and credit returns; •Excellent coaching skills and knowledge of training resources made available by the Bank for use by self and subordinates; •Superior industry knowledge with areas of specialization where required; •Superior communication skills (oral and written); •Good understanding of commercial management systems; •Knowledge and understanding of the commercial and retail products used or of potential use to commercial customers and prospects; •Sales Management skills; •Ability to develop and maintain mutually beneficial banking relationship with clients; •Leadership and supervisory skills; •Graduate Degree and/or work equivalency. III.Behavioural Competencies •Level 3:Analytical Thinking, Communication, Decision Making, Results Focus, •Level 4: Coaching, Customer Focus, Influence, Relationship Building, Team Focus Scotiabank offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package with tremendous opportunities for personal and professional growth to the successful candidate. Please submit applications no later than Friday November 13, 2015 to: Alexandria Missick - Manager, Human Resources Scotiabank (TC) Ltd. Providenciales, TCI E-mail: alexandria.missick@scotiabank.com
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
UK impressed with TCI economy By Todeline Defralien
The United Kingdom (UK) Government is impressed with the performance and strength of the Turks and Caicos Islands economy. This was stated by His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham at the opening ceremony of the OOCUR (Organization of Caribbean Utility Regulators) 13th Annual conference that was held on Wednesday October 28, 2015 at Beaches Resort and Spa. Governor Peter Beckingham said at the opening ceremony “Our economy has seen what Standard and Poor’s, the ratings agency, described two months ago as a remarkable turnaround after the collapse of the many economies in 2008 to 2009. TCI was affected as badly or worst as many other countries in this region in Europe, Asia and other places and we faced mounting debts and the British Government came in and actually guaranteed loans to the TCI Government.” He added: “I am delighted to say that we’re extremely confident that by the end of this year or the beginning of the next year, those loans will be basically paid off. The British Government would no longer have to provide a loan guarantee
and this is very much due to a very rigorous economic program which the government has put in place over the last three years or so and successfully turned around the economy.” Governor Beckingham said the turnaround in the TCI has been “pretty extraordinary”. He added: “It (economic turnaround) it is based almost entirely on what you see here, this resort (Beaches Resort and Spa) and many other resorts along Grace Bay and in Turks and Caicos; tourism and also substantial development in the building of villas in Turks and Caicos Islands. How anyone can afford them? I have no idea, but they seem to be able to. So the economic picture is one that the Government and the people of Turks and Caicos should be very proud and it is one that the British Government feels very happy about.” The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) was bankrupted in 2009 due to the global financial crisis and other issues. The UK provided essential help to the TCI by providing a $260 million loan guarantee to keep local government functioning. This British guarantee allowed the TCI to get these loans at much lower interest rates than it would have attracted otherwise, saving it millions of dollars
each year. 2016, leaving $80-100m of debt that The TCI is now required by requires to be refinanced. law to maintain a balanced budget. The UK loan guarantee New public financial management was calculated in 2011 as follows: laws require a transparent and repay inherited TCIG bank loans accountable annual budget planning ($77.9m); repay DFID’s short term round each spring. Financial progress loan used to fund government reports are made public every three salaries ($48.1m); repay unpaid bills months. ($33.8m); refinancing fees ($0.4m); Although the UK guarantee is and to provide TCIG with a cash for $260m, TCI has drawn on $179m ‘float’ ($4.8m); totalling approximately of this facility to date. It has already $170m. It also then made allowances paid $58m into the sinking fund for potentially refinancing old high which will be used to pay bond holders, interest bonds ($30m), the projected leaving a net guaranteed debt today of 2011/12 deficit ($32m) and some $121m. ‘headroom’ of $28m), taking total Through the TCI available debt under the guarantee to Government’s continued good $260m. governance and new revenue It is intended that the TCI measures it is hoped to have between guarantees its own loans from 2016. $80-100m in the sinking fund by DEMA holds public meetings on National Park Ordinance The Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) would like to remind the public of the town hall meetings on North Caicos, Grand Turk and Providenciales, to discuss the proposed amendments to the National Park Ordinance. Meetings will be held as follows: -Friday, 30th October, 6:30pm – North & Middle Caicos meeting, Primary School, Bottle Creek -Wednesday, 4th November, 6:30pm – Grand Turk meeting, Dillon Hall -Thursday, 5th November, 6:30pm – Providenciales meeting, Gustavus
Lightbourne Sports Complex Please note that the amendments to be discussed are available for review on DEMA’s webpage: http://www.gov.tc/dema . Any comments can be submitted in writing to environment@gov.tc or can be submitted to any one of the DEMA offices around the country. DEMA requests that the public attend these meetings to have their comments and concerns noted. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact DEMA via email at environment@gov.tc or call 338-4161.
HAB MANAGEMENT LIMITED
HAB MANAGEMENT LIMITED
HAB Management Limited is seeking applicants for the following position:
HAB Management Limited is seeking suitably qualified individuals to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.
HOUSEKEEPER Job Description Candidates will be responsible to clean guest rooms as assigned, ensuring the hotel’s established standards of cleanliness. Requirements Should have four years or more experience as a Housekeeper in a Hotel. Must have knowledge of proper cleaning techniques. Maintain positive guest relations at all times. Should be able to work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team. Must be able to read and write in English and understand verbal and written instructions. Good presentation and a pleasant, friendly personality required. Wages $6.50 per hour. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 9, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Only persons selected for an interview will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
TURKS & CAICOS WATER COMPANY LTD. REVERSE OSMOSIS TECHNICIAN Turks & Caicos Water Company Limited would like to fill the following position for a Reverse Osmosis Technician. Applicant must have 6 years experience in Sea Water Reverse Osmosis, working for facilities producing a minimum of 2.0 MGD of potable water. Applicant must be proficient with RO Pro software, customized SCADA systems, design of membrane arrays, rebuilding of high pressure pumps & energy recover devices, TIG welding, and laboratory analysis of potable water. Applicant must be drug free, have a valid driver’s license, dependable transportation and clean criminal record. Position requires swing shift hours and 24/7 on call for emergencies. Applicants will have to complete an application process, which includes basic written examination regarding safety and process technologies, police background check and drug test. Salary for this position is $600.00 per week commensurate with experience, training and education. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 9, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER Essential Job Functions: •Provide direction and support to the housekeeping staff, ensuring that the Housekeeping Department runs in a smooth efficient manner. •Manage the day to day operations of the Housekeeping Department in order to maintain the established standards of service and cleanliness of the hotel. •Carry out daily inspection of rooms, public space and back of house areas continually and consistently. •Control, request and purchase all supplies related to housekeeping. •Control inventories and costs of cleaning supplies, consumable and housekeeping equipment and machinery. •Responsible for setting up and maintaining ongoing training programs for the housekeeping staff. Requirements: •Should have at least six (6) years experience as a Housekeeping Supervisor or relevant experience in a luxury hotel. •Must have knowledge of proper cleaning techniques, requirements and familiar with all equipments that are associated with the Housekeeping Department. •Must have strong administrative skills and must be able to prioritize workload. •Must have the ability to multitask, work in a fast paced environment and have a high level attention to detail. •Must be hands on and work with minimal supervision. •Should be able to work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team. •Must have advanced knowledge and skills in MS Office (particularly Excel), Visual One and know how to operate office equipment. •Ability to communicate information and hotel services to management, team members and guest. •Strong verbal and written communication skills in English is required for this position. The salary for this position is $18,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, training and education. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 9, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Dr. Anya Malcom is new clinical psychologist
programs in the Mental Health Unit,” said Deputy Governor, Anya Williams upon both congratulating Dr. Malcolm on her recent accomplishments and welcoming her to the civil service. “I have every confidence that not only will she do exceptionally well in this role, but that she will be a leader of change and will help to transform the social and mental well-being of many persons lives in these islands.” Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture and Human Services also expressed his enthusiasm at Dr. Malcolm joining the service and at her recent Dr. Anya Malcolm accomplishments remarking; “We in The Turks and Caicos Islands the Ministry of Health, Agriculture Government is pleased to congratulate and Human Services welcome Dr. Dr. Anya Malcolm on the recent Malcolm to the ministry. I am very completion of her Doctorate Degree proud of her accomplishments to date in Psychology and to welcome her to and I look forward to her improving the civil service as the new Clinical the health and well-being of the people Psychologist within the Department she serves. I have all the confidence of Mental Health and Substance that Dr. Malcolm will bring her new Dependence in the Ministry of Health, energy, care and compassion to the Agriculture and Human Services. workplace and with her team improve “I am most pleased to welcome service delivery at all levels.” Dr. Malcolm to the Turks and Caicos Dr. Malcolm, a native Turks Islands civil service and most proud and Caicos Islander who hails from of her accomplishments. She has the island of South Caicos was granted continued to excel throughout the a Government scholarship upon years, performing exceptionally well graduating as Valedictorian from at both the secondary and tertiary Clement Howell High School in 2004, levels and has always made quite and moved to District of Columbia clear her devotion to these islands and (DC) in 2005. to assisting with the development of While residing and furthering
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. •Lead Bellman •Demi Chef De Partie •Floor Crystalizing Specialist •Security Officer •Housekeeping Attendant •Room Attendant •Lead Server •Financial Controller •Houseman •Chef De Partie •Crystalizing Specialist •Beach Butler •Mixologist Interested candidates should apply via e-mail to Seven Stars at hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration. Application deadline: November 6, 2015. ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.
her education in the East Coast of the USA, Dr. Malcolm acquired a wealth of knowledge and skills which has deemed her qualified for the post of Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Malcolm holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Biology (Magna Cum Laude Honors), a Terminal Master’s degree in Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology Degree in Clinical Psychology. She has previous experience in private practices and community mental health clinics across Virginia, Maryland, and DC namely, Emmaus Services for the Aging, Neuropsychology Associates of Fairfax, Associated Clinical Services, New Perspective Psychotherapy and Consulting, and Community Counseling and Mentoring Services, Inc. While Dr. Malcolm has worked with individuals of all ages in diverse populations and settings, her concentration is in Child and Family Therapy. She boasts about her main focus and professional goal of “providing children and adolescents with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate their complex worlds, while fostering self-love and boosting self-esteem.” Dr. Malcolm added, “I am bursting with joy as I embark on this new journey. One that I have been preparing for in my personal and professional development. Despite
being only 28 years-old, I feel that I can assist my country in an area which is very much needed. Not to mention, the youth of the country who can benefit from someone of whom they can relate given my upbringing in the TCI.” In reference to her post of Clinical Psychologist with responsibilities for children and adolescent cases, Dr. Malcolm commented, “I often ask, what if we treated our children’s mental health with the same urgency as we do physical illnesses? Now is the time for us, as Turks and Caicos Islanders, to push mental health to the forefront as it should be. This something that I am passionate about, and with your help we can secure the social, emotional, and psychological well-being of our children. “It truly ‘takes a village’ to raise a child, and I want to contribute to their development by performing my duties of providing therapeutic and assessment services for those in need. I want to thank the Government for selecting me for the position, and I welcome all requests for consultations and coordination of services within the various government departments and ministries as it relates to providing mental health services to our children. I join an excellent team here at the DMHSD and I look forward to assisting them in their courageous and selfless efforts.”
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Brits won’t stand in way of TCI independence
By Todeline Defralien
The British Government will not stand in the way of the Turks and Caicos Islands independence, says His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham. Speaking at the opening ceremony for the OOCUR (Organization of Caribbean Utility Regulators) 13th annual conference at Beaches Resort and Spa on Wednesday October 28th, 2015, Beckingham said: “ We have always made it clear (the British Government) to not only TCI but to all the other overseas territories which ranges from the Falkland islands to Bermuda and a few other scattered countries in between... that if at any time it appears to be the will of the people, they would like to explore the possibility of independence, then the British Government would not stand in the way of that process going forward.” He added: “My good friend, the Hon. Minister for Home Affairs (George Lightbourne) knows well that I have said this to him and to the other members of the Cabinet and it is basically just a fact across all the territories. It is entirely for the people of the TCI and the other British overseas territories to determine their own future.” Governor Beckingham was speaking to an audience that included several utility regulators from ten Caribbean countries. Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing in on record as saying that the Turks and Caicos Islands is still considering political independence from Britain. While attending a conference
in Trinidad in April 2013, Ewing said that “independence remains a major issue”. “I think any right thinking country should have independence as its destination. The time period however is the question. The need for independence must be the goal and so everything you do should be to prepare your people and country for that giant step. There will be a number of factors that will come into play as to whether or not that time should be fast tracked or continue along the pace that you would desire to have or would like to have and that would depend on the ongoing relationship with the United Kingdom government and the people in the territory,” he said. Ewing said that the government “of the day” would also have a role to play and “allowed to do what is right by the people, for the people to improve their standard of living and to prepare us for our plans for moving towards that step of independence. “If it doesn’t happen, all it does is to make the people even more convinced that independence is our only way out,” said Ewing, adding that more citizens have become convinced “that independence is the way to go, more than ever before in the past because of the relationship we have had (with Britain) over the past three years. The Turks and Caicos Islands is one of 14 British Overseas Territories that are not independent. The others are: Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Antarctic Territory, the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), the British Virgin
BRITISH CARIBBEAN BANK VACANCY Senior Financial Controller -Receiverships Applications are invited for the position of Senior Financial Controller - Receiverships LOCATION: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS Bachelors degree in business or other relevant subject PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS UK Chartered Accountant qualified (or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years post qualification experience in auditing BUSINESS EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT Applicants should have a minimum of 15 years in a broad range of financial management roles at a senior level Experience in the following areas would be a significant advantage: financial and management accounting, business acquisitions and deposits, corporate restructurings, regulatory reporting, strategic financial and business planning, ability to interpret complex legal documentation. Salary Range: $60,000 to $100,000 per annum based on experience Belongers only need apply. Please Submit Detailed Application to: British Caribbean Bank Limited Phone: 649-9415028 infro@bcbtci.com P.O. Box 270 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Turks and Caicos Sun Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 339-5879 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing Islands (BVI), the Cayman Islands, the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia on Cyprus, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, the Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena and its dependencies (Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha), South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. Crown Dependencies are possessions of the British Crown, as opposed to BOTs or colonies. Crown Dependencies are the Channel Island bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey and the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea.
Todeline Defralien Reporter Brandy Laporte Reporter
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.
A property developer on Providenciales has an immediate vacancy for a Senior Architect / Design Manager This position has a high level of responsibility as he/she oversees a project from inception to completion. Candidates need to have demonstrated a capacity for creativity, excellent technical ability/knowledge, and strong communication & project management skills. Candidate must: •be a Registered (RIBA, AIA, ARB) and have at least 15 years of professional experience in designing & project management. •have excellent communication and presentation skills. •have proven experience in AutoCAD 2014,- Adobe Photoshop - Sketchup Adobe and Microsoft Office Suites •have experience in master planning, detailed design, design management and construction of major multi used complex projects; includes extensive experience in the construction of High-end residential properties, Hotel, and Commercial mixed used buildings. •have knowledge of design and construction management principles; cost control, change order pricing/negotiation and construction techniques, standards and practices. •have Knowledge of architectural design principles such as building materials, construction methods, and design standards and building codes. •have the Ability to independently prepare 3D architectural sketches, schematic designs and detailed contract drawings. •demonstrate ability to present complex information to diverse audiences, both verbally and graphically. •be able to coordinate architectural design efforts with Civil, Structural and MEP design and systems. •prepare tender analysis report, negotiate with contractors and prepare AIA contract documents. •have the Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. •have demonstrated ability to organize and coordinate and record projects. •be willing to work weekends and holidays when required. Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience. Applications must be sent no later than November 20, 2015 to: Misick & Stanbrook Email: info@misickstanbrook.tc Tel: (649) 946-4732 Fax: (649) 946-4734
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Alternative energy changes coming By Todeline Defralien
Changes are coming to allow the use of alternative energy in the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to Governor Peter Beckingham. The Governor told local and regional utility regulators attending the Organisation of Caribbean Utility Regulators 13th annual conference at Beaches Resort and Spa on Wednesday October 28th, 2015, that he recently held meetings with local power company Fortis and they had “a good discussion” about facilitating these changes. “We will be making announcements and developments in our legislation to look at changes to allow more alternative energy within Turks and Caicos Islands,” the Governor said, “but can I take this opportunity to say without revealing anything Governor Peter Beckingham confidential in our discussions, how be revamped before the Company in new, more efficient generating pleased I am that Fortis has indicated can develop cost-effective renewable equipment and improved distribution some changes already in its approach resources. service that will be needed if renewable to alternative energy”. This should “The current regulatory generation is to be integrated mean that some of the major resorts, framework fails to comport with any successfully with the existing PPC the major supermarkets can start to accepted regulatory practice with system. Without this framework in develop alternative energy in a way which we are familiar. The current place, PPC simply cannot develop costthat I know from visiting Antigua and framework fails to account whatsoever effective renewable resources,” the other countries some other Caribbean for capital investments. For example, report said. countries who are already pretty well whilst the cost of the diesel fuel used “Establishing the regulatory advanced, and I am very pleased that by PPC’s new and efficient Wartsila framework necessary for PPC to Fortis are looking in a very positive generating units is recouped by the have an incentive to pursue leastway at this development.” utility, the cost of the generating unit cost generating resources and energy A March 2011 report entitled itself is not. Thus, rather than being efficiency measures, including “Renewable Energy in Turks and Caicos: a separate component of its cost of renewable generation, is not difficult. An Independent Assessment Report service, PPC’s investment return is However, such a framework must Prepared for PPC Ltd by Dr. Jonathan determined after-the-fact, based on its be developed in comprehensively to A. Lesser and J. Nícolas Puga, noted revenues and operating expenses. This ensure that all aspects are clear to both that the regulatory framework under creates a regulatory “disconnect” that the regulated utility and regulators. which PPC operates must first penalizes PPC for capital investments An over-arching requirement for cost-
MANAGER, COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL SERVICES Job Grade: A80 Full-Time Managing Director’s Office, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island The Manager, Compliance and Legal Services is responsible for providing support in the coordination of the overall Anti-Money Laundering regime for Turks and Caicos Islands and supporting Management in fulfilling their compliance responsibilities by promoting adherence to Scotiabank Guidelines for Business Conduct, the Group Standards for Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-terrorist Financing and any supplemental policies, procedures, guidelines or codes of conduct applicable to the TCI; as well as protecting the interest of the Group in legal matters; anticipating and advising on legal issues that may affect its operations. I. Specific Accountabilities •Assist in the maintenance of an adequate Compliance Network that will ensure that the units within Scotiabank TCI are operating within the regulatory framework applicable to their business activities, personnel practices and premises. •Provide support in ensuring that regulatory requirements are considered, identified and addressed with regards to the development of new products, programs or business initiatives. •Provide support in developing and carrying out review programs that will confirm compliance to regulatory requirements is in place. •Provide support in reviewing, on an annual basis, plans developed by support groups to monitor operational risk. Assist the Corporate Manager in periodically consulting with support functions and ensure plans have been executed and documented, and coordinate the submission of information, of an exception nature, to Sr. Management and the board of Directors where warranted. •Provide support in ensuring that adequate policies, practices and procedures have been defined and implemented to enable ongoing compliance to applicable local regulatory requirements . •Provide support in ensuring that adequate training programs are developed to support the reliable implementation of regulatory requirements. •Provide support in ensuring the instances of non-compliance to regulatory requirements are being identified, appropriately reported and adequate action plans are developed to ensure corrective action and non-recurrence. •Provide support in ensuring that all required reporting activities are completed in an accurate and timely manner as prescribed. II. Complexity of Position In order to perform the functions of the position, the following competencies are required: •Formal training in law (to deal with documentation/other complexities involved in the business and a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the field; •Formal training in Compliance and membership in a recognized professional compliance association (e.g. Association of Certified Anti-Money laundering Specialists-ACAMS or International Compliance Association-ICA), and a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the field; •Good knowledge of business activities undertaken by Scotiabank TCI; •Thorough knowledge of the regulatory/supervisory structure of the local financial markets, current banking regulations and industry standards; •Sound knowledge of the Bank’s policies, procedures, operations, organization, internal controls and the Scotiabank Group compliance process; •Excellent communications skills, both written and oral, as well as analytical and negotiation skills, •Strong interpersonal and organizational skills and the ability to prioritize/delegate and deal with the workload to meet deadlines, •Ability to establish rapport and maintain effective working relationships with local regulators, external auditors and management personnel; •Ability to review complex documents and material and effectively absorb relevant content and assimilate this in a practical and coherent way; •High degree of computer literacy. The incumbent operates independently within the guidelines, policies, directives and established precedents. Please forward your application no later than Friday, November 13, 2015 to: Alexandria Missick - Manager, Human Resources Scotiabank (TC) Ltd. Providenciales, TCI E-mail: alexandria.missick@scotiabank.com
effective development of renewable resources and energy efficiency measures will be for both PPC and its regulators to follow Good Utility Practice, which involves calculating an appropriate revenue requirement and providing PPC with an opportunity to earn a risk-comparable return on its capital investment with its financial viability maintained,” the report continued. The findings of the report was based on a review of the current situation on TCI, including the existing regulatory framework, the status of PPC’s distribution system, and our analysis of the cost-effectiveness of alternate renewable resources, we have reached the following conclusions. The document said that before renewable resources can be developed by PPC or third-party entities, interconnection protocols must be in place to ensure PPC safety and reliability is not compromised. “PPC’s distribution system, like those of most electric utilities, is not specifically designed for distributed generating resources. Before customeror third-party-owned renewable generation can be installed, there must be in place interconnection agreements that set forth the requirements for ensuring that such installations do not adversely affect system safety and reliability. Development of utility-scale renewable resources, such as wind and solar photovoltaics, will require significant investment in distribution system upgrades to address the variability of such resources,” the reports said.
Corporate Manager: Oversees daily activities of Guest Services Department to provide guidance and leadership to all staff. Responsible to ensure consistent quality of customer service is provided to all guests in accordance with Gansevoort standards. Tasked with representing the Gansevoort brand and reputation in the public, through both oral and written communications. Essentially, he or she becomes the face of the organization, interacting with employees, clients, the media etc. •Must have Gansevoort Hotel Group experience. •Must be a Certified Concierge •8 - 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment with experience in Front Office, Concierge and Management. •Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop, mentor and motivate a team. •Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem solving skills. Must be experienced in conflict resolution. •Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS and Micros POS. •Ability to prepare reports, effectively present information, and provide timely response to queries. •Ability to effectively deal with colleagues and customers, some of whom require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy to defuse anger and collect accurate information. •Deadlines oriented with the ability to multi-task and establish priorities. •Strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English and Spanish. •Professional appearance and demeanor. Interested applicants can contact the Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555 ext. 6022/6016 or via email hr@wymara.com.
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 11
LOCAL NEWS
Child abuse workshop for coaches
Simon said that these cases are very sensitive and training is never The Ministry Social too much. He hoped that the workshop Development and Gender Affairs held would allow coaches to take the tools a two-day work shop about dealing and share amongst their colleagues, with child abuse and child protection respective clubs and schools so that in sports in the Occasions Ballroom at the more people that are equipped Airport Hotel in Providenciales, on the the likelihood of addressing and 28th of October. responding to child abuse will become Director of the Child more effective. Protection Authority of Grenada Simon added that there are Anderson Simon said at the workshop a number of red flags that can be was created to sensitise and equip identified such as behavior and mood people on understanding who is a swing of children. child, what is child abuse, what is “The physical side can be child protection, the do’s and don’ts of seen but the coach or the one who is a coach as it relates to child protection interacting with the students has to and understanding the role that they know and understand the children play in child protection. that they are working with and they Simon said, “One of the most may hear things that they may say important things about child abuse that are unusual. You might even is the aspect of mandatory reporting find stuff that they are coming with where there are suspicions of child by knowing the economic status of abuse so that the appropriate agencies the family. You may find coming to can act on it.” training or participating in stuff that Simon added that statistics are beyond the family’s measures. are some of the things that have to be These are some of the red flags that used wisely because different people you should be looking for and many can use statistics for their own purpose. more,” he added. “What can be said is that with the Simon continued: “If a person support of UNICEF in the Caribbean gets information about child abuse there is a ‘Break the Silence Drive’ to they should report to the ministry raise the awareness that people should of social development. If you cannot, report Child Abuse,” he noted. then you call the police so that the Simon said that under Turks police can pass it on to the ministry of and Caicos Islands law, teachers have social development. It is important. Do a right to report mandatory to the not do your own investigations. Make agency as it relates to child abuse. that report. If you are not even sure as “We call them duty bearers, so a normal citizen and you cannot get in these are people who by virtue of their contact with the police or the ministry profession and their interest, have a of social development and you know a responsibility to report any signs of responsible person in the community child abuse,” he added. like a police officer, a doctor or a By Brandy Laporte
East Bay Resort
is searching for an experienced Electrician. You must be able to perform the following tasks: read electrical, architectural and mechanical diagrams, drawings mor specifications to determine job requirements plan the layout of wiring systems test for, locate and repair electrical malfunctions install electrical and electronic control systems and insulated cables install electrical equipment such as storage heaters, water heaters, electrical signs, switchboards and motors assemble electrical and electronic components and appliances connect electrical equipment to power supplies connect switches, outlets and other fittings connect circuit breakers Have knowledge of soldering, able to work on boats and electrical engines
Must also be proficient in electrical motor winding; applying electrical knowledge to make, fit or repair electrical machines or appliances. Electricians must be aware of safety regulations and must wear and use supplied protective equipment to minimize risks.
Personal Requirements: enjoy mathematical and technical activities good hand-eye coordination good eyesight (may be corrected) and normal color vision logical thinking and diagnostic ability aptitude for mechanics and electronics able to do precise and detailed work able to work independently or as part of a team able to cope with the physical demands of the job Good communication skills. Must speak English with a knowledge of French and Spanish.
Beginning salary Commensurate with Experience Interested Applicant’s please email all applications to info@ saunders.tc
Tiffany Thomas Browne the Director of Social Development and Gender Affairs
Anderson Simon the Director of Child Protection Authority of Grenada
nurse you tell them because once they have that information it is their responsibility to pass it on. Do not keep that information and procrastinate on it. You do not have to have any of the facts, but the suspicion that leads you must be reported.” Director of Social Development and Gender Affairs Tiffany Thomas Brown said that the department of Social development, Gender Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Home Affairs and transportation and Communication saw the need to train the coaches of the Turks and Caicos Islands on child abuse and child sexual abuse because it is happening in our communities every day. “We have to be aware of the signs, the various forms of abuse. We have to know how to prevent it and interventions as to how to address and report child abuse in our country. So in this medium we chose to train our
various coaches and physical education teachers from across the Turks and Caicos. We wanted to educate them so that they can partner with us in bringing about safety and security for our children,” she said. “It is important to train them and teach them the signs because they interact with students on a regular basis. So we have to teach them what to do and what not to do; for example not transporting a child alone, not sleeping in a bed with a child, if they are on work shops or trips together ensure that there are more than one adult with them.” The Director said that in 2013, there were 15 cases of sexual carnal knowledge reported. There are also instances of assault but currently the numbers are down. She added that with the numbers being down there is still concern because there are many silent voices as well.
WATERLOO HOTEL MANAGEMENT LIMITED is inviting applications for the following positions: EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: •Candidate must demonstrate a proven track record of successfully leading/managing in an upscale Food & Beverage environment; with strong culinary experience and training. •Responsible for the execution of all company policies and procedures, ensuring that all services provided achieve the established standards within the agreed budgetary controls. •Advise the Corporate Executive Chef on all matters relating to the kitchen area and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygienic practice throughout the kitchen. •To assist the Corporate Executive Chef in budgeting i.e food cost/payroll/etc. •Ensure guest satisfaction with the smooth and effective running of the day-to-day operation. •Organize training and development of culinary staff members. •To maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items. •To test and evaluate products for quality, paying particular attention to yield/holding qualities/market price/wastage usage of leftovers. •Constantly inspect all food service sections during service time to ensure that the correct standards are maintained. •Responsible for control of equipment and scheduling maintenance. REQUIREMENTS: •Minimum of 5 years of previous Food and Beverage international experience in a senior leadership role. •University/College degree •Computer literate in Microsoft Window applications required •Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities •Developed proficiency with forecasting, cost controls and scheduling through related experience. •Dynamic, enthusiastic, creative leader who thrives under pressure and is able to perform multiple functions and troubleshoot when need. •Highly responsible & reliable with the ability to work well under pressure in fast paced environment. •Ability to work cohesively as part of a team •Ability to focus attention on guest needs, remaining calm and courteous at all times •The ability to stand and/or walk for a long periods of time, lift up to 40lbs and push/ pull up to 50 lbs. •Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays. Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please Submit Applications to: cgibbons@wihl.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labor Department. Submissions to be no later that November 6th, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Public service media must be transparent, says Hon. George Lightbourne
By Todeline Defralien
Public service media must be transparent and must work towards the common good, says Minister of Communications Hon. George Lightbourne. "The content these media houses generate must do more than just entertain. It must inform and educate the public and just adhere to the highest standards of moral integrity. Public service media must be the voice for the voiceless. Its reach must be universal; for the greatest divide in modern society is not between the rich and the poor. It’s between those with access to information and those who are denied this basic right," Hon. Lightbourne said while delivering his feature address at the opening ceremony of the OOCUR (Organization of Caribbean Utility Regulators) 13th Annual conference that was held on Wednesday October 28th, 2015 at Beaches Resort and Spa. He added: "However, access is only but one matter. For information to be meaningful it must be driven by independence, excellence and diversity. This is indeed a global challenge for public service media. The question is how to remain relevant in a fast evolving world. How to be a trusted voice that acts with integrity and professionalism at all times and is diverse and pluralist in its approach. Our public media service is one of
the major pillars in this endeavour. Through Radio Turks and Caicos or RTC, the television and Internet, the Government ensures that all Turks and Caicos Islanders are informed about government activities." The Minister said that communication and more especially, another challenge is how public service media remains relevant amidst a digital revolution. "Our smart phones, tablets, laptops and notebooks have become ubiquitous. The information and communication dividend they provide is unparalleled but so too is their impact on our privacy, society and the economy. Social media and the power of the Internet are driving this change in our community and our lives. Information sharing has become all pervasive; be it on Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, Skype or numerous other platforms," he said. "The world has never been more connected. Social media has truly served to make us all part of the global community. When one sits down to take this all in it’s both liberating and frightening. The incomparable advances in communication, access to knowledge and information sharing lives alongside new forms of abuse and crime. It would be naïve to think that any government or regulating agency has the answers to these complex problems. If we are honest we would admit to government policy is struggling to keep up with the pace of
H.A.B. MANAGEMENT LTD. CLEANER Responsibilities: The successful applicant will be responsible for the general cleaning of communal areas, sweeping and mopping of floors, cleaning of windows and removal of trash. The applicant will also be responsible for any other duties assigned in regards to general cleaning. Requirements: The successful applicant must be able to work with little to no supervision, capable of performing manual labour outside on a daily basis, should be physically fit, hard working and reliable. Wages: $6.25 per hour
Minister of Communications Hon. George Lightbourne chance." Lightbourne said it is the task of governments and regulators to find a workable medium between the crucial need to ensure freedom of speech and expression, but also to safeguard society. "Governments, regulators, police, intelligence and security agencies need to be able to operate more effectively against online threats and abuse. How to do this in a world where information can be spread at the click of a button is the challenge. At the same time we must tread carefully as we dare not trample over
our liberties and rights to privacy. In Turks and Caicos there is currently no legislation that deals specifically with online and social media. However there are small snippets in the Telecommunications Ordinance and the Electronic Transactions Ordinance which will apply to online and social media. But in the absence of specific online and social media laws, employers must consider our common law and other statutes in order to determine their online and social media policy, and to balance and protect the rights of both the employer and its employees," the minster added.
BRITISH CARIBBEAN BANK VACANCY DIRECTOR
The applicant must possess the following: •Strong international corporate finance background, preferably in a major investment bank. •Minimum of 20 years senior management experience in the Finance and Banking Industry •Strong Leveraged finance contacts in the US, UK and Europe •Post graduate degree in Finance or equivalent required
Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 16, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
Belongers only need apply. Please Submit Detailed Application to: P.O. Box 270 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
ELECTRICIAN
GENERAL MANAGER
TURKS AND CAICOS WATER COMPANY LIMITED is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the following position. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.
Duties
Responsible for all general electrical maintenance and repairs of electrical problems. Must be able to operate electrical and control systems, generators and SWRO equipment in excess of 200 HP. Must be able to inspect various electrical systems and equipment for proper functioning. Proficient in diagnosing problems concerning PLCs and analog control circuits. Complete daily tasks as outlined by Supervisor. Complete maintenance request work orders on a timely basis. Performs all weekly, monthly and other scheduled preventative maintenance programs. Actively pursue new tasks or jobs when assigned work is completed.
Applications are invited for the General Manager position at Providenciales FBO. An individual with leadership, customer relations, and results focused abilities is required to oversee all aspects of the FBO operations.
Responsibilities will include:
•Developing new business plan with capital requirements and anticipated performance •Establishing and servicing customer base, and developing customer relations •Ensuring that National & International regulations and safety procedures are established and maintained •Responsible for financial management of base including forecasting budgeting and expense control
Must have eight years experience and certification as an Electrician. Must have strong troubleshooting skills in order to diagnose and repair electrical problems. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office. Should have great oral and written communication skills. Work with minimal supervision. Applicant must be drug free, have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and clean criminal record. Position requires the successful applicant to be willing to work swing shift hours, including holidays and weekends. Position requires for the successful applicant to be on standby for 24 hours call out emergencies.
Essential criteria for this position: •Superior industry knowledge of commercial and private aviation •Minimum of 10 years experience as an FBO General Manager •Proven track record in controlling all aspects of the business including line operations and facility management •An excellent track record in aviation safety monitoring and training •Verifiable track record of excellent customer service skills •Proven experience in managing fuel inventory •Strong experience in dealing with Regulatory Authorities
The wages for this position is $8.00 per hour. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 9, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
Salary based on experience Contact 331-0221
Requirements
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 13
LOCAL NEWS
South Caicos being neglected
However in this letter I have purposed in my mind to address a For those of us who are old specific problem that has recently enough, we would remember that caused me much contempt and a great there was a time when South Caicos deal of embarrassment. My contempt was considered to be the ‘breadbasket’ and my embarrassment have turned of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Now into anger, and it is out of this emotion it is perhaps the most neglected of all that I have chosen to express myself the islands in the archipelago. This through this medium. neglect has persisted for many years On Monday, October 19th the now and it is beginning to become Footsteps 4 Good, nation-wide walk, most intolerable and unbearable for organized by Mrs. Jill Beckingham, any civic-minded resident of the once the wife of the Governor and two of vibrant fishing town. The neglect is their guests, representatives from as such that it has become expediently the European Union, visiting the necessary, at least for me, to bring Turks and Caicos Islands. Despite attention to this untenable and the inclement weather, the walk was unconscionable set of circumstances. attended by scores of persons from While there is the evidence of the community, students from the a poorly managed garbage landfill that Marjorie Basden High School, the has manifested an infestation of flies Iris Stubbs Primary and the Calvary ad rodents throughout the community, Christian School. and while there is a garbage collection The enthusiasm of the truck that spends more time in the crowd was vividly evident until the repair shop than on the road, resulting last mile and a half of the 6 mile in overflowing garbage bins on almost walk. Enthusiasm turned to disgust every corner, there are myriads of because from the Iris Stubbs Primary other environmental, health and social School all the way to the airport, illnesses that needs to be addressed. numerous deposits of animal feces By Concerned citizen
MANAGING DIRECTOR If banking is your expertise and you possess dynamic leadership, strategic thinking and results focused abilities, then consider this executive opportunity with Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd. Key accountabilities include: •Being innovative by developing and implementing marketing strategies to ensure profitability of current and new business opportunities in retail/ commercial/corporate lending. •Establishing and maintaining excellence in relationships with senior government officials and company executives. •Maximizing profitability by effectively controlling branch operations/ expenditures. •Leading by example a customer driven sales culture and ensuring delivery of excellent customer service. •Effectively managing and control the loan portfolios at an acceptable level of risk. •Overseeing the effective management of the Bank’s human resources capital, eg, recruitment, compensation, performance, employee relations and training. •Ensuring that national and international compliance laws/requirements are implemented and sustained. Essential criteria needed for this role includes:
•Minimum of 15 years experience with an International Bank with expert knowledge of commercial, retail and corporate policies, procedures and products. •Proven ability and experience to analyse complex financial transactions. •A solid track record in managing credit portfolio and negotiating with influential customers in a highly competitive environment. •Strong negotiation and problem resolution skills in connection with problem loan management. •Highly polished written and verbal communication skills. •Excellent leadership abilities to multi-task, organize and motivate teams to achieving overall success. •Strong marketing skills to develop/change strategies to meet and surpass business expectations. •Sound knowledge of the rules and regulations imposed by FSC as well as local legislation and the ability to interpret these laws.
If this opportunity sounds challenging and exciting, we invite you to forward your resume/application to us. Scotiabank offers an attractive salary/benefits package and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Please submit applications no later than Friday 13th November 2015 to: Alexandria Missick – Manager, Human Resources Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd Providenciales, TCI E-mail: alexandria.missick@scotiabank.com
littered the road. At certain points the Governor and his guest had to step carefully so as not to step into the patches of manure that decorated the street. What was most shocking about the whole thing is that the District Commissioner for the Island was walking alongside the Governor, chatting nonchalantly as if all is well and she was in complete control. It appears as if she was oblivious to, or not in any way concerned about the unseemly sight. What is especially ironic about this is that the District Commissioner is always boasting about the fact that she is ultimately responsible for everything that happens in South Caicos , in other words that the ‘buck’ stops with her. It means therefore that she must accept responsibility for the gross oversight of not having the island, particularly the route of the walk, properly cleaned in anticipation for the now annual event. This is just the latest in a long list of acts of mismanagement that the District Commissioner is guilty of committing or allowing to
be committed. The people of South Caicos are hoping that she be removed from office as soon as possible, and that someone who has love for and pride in the community be installed in her place. Presently, there is a petition being circulated soliciting signatures from persons in the community to voice their dissatisfaction with her lack- luster performance. It is incumbent upon the Governor, after being so severely embarrassed before his guests, one of them the British Ambassador to the European Union, it is incumbent upon him to readily accept the petition that will ultimately reach his desk, and speedily execute the removal of this very incompetent District Administrator. As a matter of fact the Governor himself should sign the petition that is being circulated to show his disgust and contempt for the embarrassment that he had to contend with. Further he should make recommendations for the Government to do more to make South Caicos the beautiful island it was once was.
PERSONAL BANKING OFFICER Job Grade: A61 Annual Salary: $30,950 - $37,900 - $45,500 Full-Time Scotia Centre, Cherokee Road As a member of the branch team, you will be responsible for contributing to the branch’s overall success by meeting negotiated goals through the identification and satisfaction of customer needs. The assigned goals include specific personal sales goals, sales activity goals, along with other objectives relating to teamwork, customer service and personal development. This position reports to the Assistant Manager, Personal Banking. Accountabilities •Sell customized financial solutions using financial planning approach to meet retail customer needs; •Open new accounts by ensuring all documentation meets the Bank’s compliance requirements. •Promote and sell personal banking products and services to existing and potential customers. •Provide friendly, timely and effective customer service in line with the Bank’s established standards. •Contribute to the overall growth and profitability of the Bank. •Commitment to self-development and career advancement. •Perform other related duties as assigned. Functional Competencies •Working knowledge of customer life cycle needs and current economic and political events; •Thorough knowledge of product features, benefits, and related pricing policies and procedures for all retail banking products; •Thorough knowledge of interviewing, solicitation and telemarketing skills; •Thorough knowledge of the bank’s sales and service technology platforms, including knowledge of Counselor functionality and the sales reporting generated; •Working knowledge of the role the IBLDC(International Banking Loan Development Centre) fulfills for the Branch in credit adjudication of credit requests outside the branch/country limit, and how to develop the application for submission; •Thorough knowledge of regulatory compliance and AML/ATF guidelines related to the sale of the Bank’s products, storage of information and the ongoing monitoring of customer relationships-specifically in relation to Know Your Customer(KYC) requirements; •Working knowledge of competitor offerings Behavioural Competencies •Communication (Level 2) •Customer Focus (Level 2) •Cross-Cultural Leadership (Level 2) •Building Strategic Relationship (Level 2) •Self-Awareness and Personal Development (Level 2) •Results Focus (Level 2) •Team Focus (Level 2) Please forward your application no later than November 6, 2015 to: Alexandria Missick - Manager, Human Resources Scotiabank (Turks &Caicos) Ltd. Providenciales, TCI E-mail: alexandria.missick@scotiabank.com
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
The Turks and Caicos Islands Cadet Corps, assembled just before marching with the different nationality flags represented at the event
A section of the audience at the 10th Caribbean Health Financing Initiative Conference 2015
TCI hosts 10th Caribbean Health Financing Initiative Conference
The Turks and Caicos Islands was the host of About 26 countries were represented at the event, the 10th Caribbean Health Financing Initiative which had its opening ceremony on Wednesday, Conference at the Palms Resort in Providenciales. October 28. The event was held to share ideas The event was held between October 28 and 30. and come up with solutions that would lead to
universal and sustainable healthcare across the Caribbean. Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing declared the conference open. The following are photo highlights of the event.
Turks and Caicos Islands Cadet Corps members were seamless on the flag drills
Professor Karl Theodore, Host of the Ninth Conference
Cadets march into the conference room along with various nationality flags
Drexwell Seymour, Chairman for National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) brings remarks
Antionette Skelton of the BVI, and Representative of the Caribbean Social Security Organisation
Dr. Stanley Lalta, Programme Coordinator, delivering the overview of the conference
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing arrives at the event
Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing declaring the event opened
Minister of Finance, Trade and Investment Hon. Washington Misick
Members of the audience stand to receive Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing Turks and Caicos Islands Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing (fifth from left), is joined in a photo op by (from left) Zanita, CEO for the TCI NHIB; Stanley Lalta, Programme Coordinator; Professor Karl Theodore; Ronnie Skelton, Health Minister for the BVI; TCI Minister of Finance Hon. Washington Missick; Drexwell Seymour, Chairman for the NHIB; and Antionette Skelton of the BVI, and Representative of the Caribbean Social Security Organisation
Finance Minister Hon. Washington Misick (left) is caught in a light moment with Antionette Skelton of the BVI, and Representative of the Caribbean Social Security Organisation and Professor Karl Theodore
Pastor Wayde Coleby offers prayers at the event
Zanita Burton, CEO of the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), offers the vote of thanks
Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing (left) converses with Ronnie Skelton, Ministry of Health for the BVI
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
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LOCAL NEWS
Government shoots for universal health care coverage By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor
Government is hoping that by year’s end, legislation will be in place to put the Turks and Caicos Islands on the path to achieving universal health care coverage. Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing made the declaration while attending the launch of the 10th Caribbean Health Financing Initiative Conference at the Palms Resort on Providenciales on Wednesday, October 28, 2015. He said that two elements prohibiting the country from achieving universal healthcare for all is the after 90-day cut-off time for the unemployed and semi-coverage of expatriate children who are on their parents work permits. “I think we are almost there. I think the only problem with us is that there are two vulnerable groups that are not covered – those persons who are unemployed beyond 90 days. We see that more time needs to be given to them to find employment. But, we have to be careful because in covering the unemployed, you can’t cover them forever, because you don’t really want to creating the dependency and creating a welfare state. “So, you need to encourage persons to seek employment so they can contribute to the plan. And then we have the children who are here by
their parents being here and working, and who are attending schools,” he said. The premier added: “Those individuals are not able to be covered and we should be able to cover them because the cost involved in providing coverage for those individuals is minimal compared to the risk that they present to the population by being here in the event that they get ill with things that can impact all of us. And also, get ill in terms of impacting the viability and sustainability of the plan.” The premier also that once those two issues are addressed, the country would have had universal health coverage. The premier noted also that under such amendment, government would implement a voluntary contributing programme, to give everybody the opportunity to be covered. He said that although the cost of healthcare since the opening of the two hospitals in 2009, has been plummeting, there is still need for cost to be driven down even further. “There is about 25 percent of the budget that goes towards healthcare, but when you look at the budget, you look at it in a holistic component of what your full budgetary allocation is, and that percentage is dropping as we increase the government revenue and expenditure; as it increases, the percent to the
contribution towards health becomes less, because what is happening is that health care expenditure has not increased. “Health care expenditure since 2009, has actually decreased, because before 2009, when we had the old hospital system health care expenditure totaled $60 million a year. Now that we get the new hospital system and NHIP, healthcare expenditure is less than $60 million a year. So, for that, we have a national health care plan that delivers care for people, and we also have the (operation of the) two new hospitals that goes with it, that provide better and improved service,” the premier said. He added; “So I think we are banking on getting more value for money in moving forward, while containing costs at the same time. And so, our focus now really, is to reduce the risk to the system by shifting funding towards primary healthcare. “The aim is getting the National Health Insurance Plan to pay for the various preventative primary health care programmes that reduce the burden of diseases, such as cancers and all those chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Because, in Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing the long run, those are the ones that are going to cost you to spend more on the frontend, so that we can have a and make the plan unsustainable and more sustainable health plan later on.” increase the cost of delivering health More than 25 countries were care services. So we need to invest now represented at the conference.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION!
GAMING POLICY 2015 -CLOSING SOON -
CONSULTATION EXTENDED TO 16TH NOVEMBER 2015 The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Invites the public to provide feedback. The policy can be viewed online at http://www.gov.tc /images/The_Gaming_Policy_Draft.pdf
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LOCAL NEWS
PNP Government neglecting youth
by Oswald Skipping
Leader of the Progressive Democratic Alliance
The depressed conditions throughout the country are increasing and consequently creating increased depression among our people. That is the reason suicides and suicide attempts are becoming so common throughout the islands. The impoverished plight of people in the Turks and Caicos Islands has reached astronomical proportions and unfortunately is going unnoticed by elected politicians to the extent that hopelessness and despair are already widespread. The apathy, lack of concern and insensitive attitude that is being displayed by government, especially toward the youth is unbelievable. It is more than evident that government does not care and only one has to look at the areas where they have already begun to aimlessly throw tens of thousands of dollars around in an
attempt to mamaguy the youth and once again con them into voting for them. Monies that could be used to employ the youth, put in place social programs that would prepare them for life, provide outlets and positive entertainment that would prevent the excessive lallygagging that is prevalent because the youth have nowhere to go for positive entertainment. It is about time that the youth are respected and cared for enough for elected officials to respond to their social and economic needs in order to cease this escalating social crisis. Politicians need to understand that the days are over when the youth could be fooled by imported celebrities and gangster rappers and the likes. The youths have seen and are feeling the effects of the neglect, the joblessness and the marginalization and are suffering the devastating sting of poverty and social displacement.
Hospitality Positions available We are looking to hire you! FOOD AND BEVERAGE
ACCOUNTING
•Executive Sous Chefs •Sous Chefs •Head Chefs •Raw Bar Cooks •Line Cooks •Bartenders •Hostess •Servers •Pool and Beach Servers •Food Runners •Stewards (Overnight)
•Hospitability Accountants •Cost Control Clerks •Purchasing Personnel
SPA •Spa Director/Manager •Spa Therapists
ENGINEERING & GROUNDS •Chief Engineer •Landscaping/Grounds Manager •Maintenance Manager •Electricians •Maintenance/Room Technicians ROOMS DIVISION
•Rooms Supervisors •Room Attendants •Loss Prevention Manager •Housemen •Loss Prevention Supervisors •Public Area Attendants •Senior Loss Prevention Officers LOSS PREVENTION
Guest Services •Senior Guest Services Agents •Receptionist Please submit your CV, status information along with all certifications and references to jobconnections@hotmail.com Turks and Caicos Islanders need only apply.
Therefore, they are rightfully seeking jobs, business opportunities, scholarships, positive entertainment, proper sports facilities and the list goes on. So politicians must be advised that the youth of today are wiser than many of the politicians and they want more, expect more and deserve more than a concert and a party. I call on elected officials to cease their apathy and negligence toward the young people of these meaningful steps to hear their cries, address their problems and embrace them as an integral and important segment of society, so that we will not lose another generation to vagrancy, crime, drugs, alcohol, violence and all the other prevalent social ills. Please understand that there needs to be proactive and serious investment in the young people of this country and I appeal to government, private sector and NGO’s to rise to the occasion and respond to the clarion call to save our youths. Oswald Skipping leader of the Progressive Democratic Alliance
Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority Notice of Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Passenger Terminal Building and Combined Services Building Design-Build Services South Caicos International Airport In anticipation of future growth of hotel accommodation on South Caicos Island and the subsequent increase of tourism activity, The Turks & Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has embarked on a multi-phase, multi-year redevelopment program to expand capacity and enhance the operational safety/ security of the South Caicos International Airport in the Turks and Caicos. As part of this Airport Redevelopment Program the TCIAA intends to construct a new Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) and Combined Services Building (CSB). The proposed Passenger Terminal Building will be a single story structure of approximately 25,700 sq. ft., and designed to accommodate both domestic and international flight operations. The PTB will include facilities for the processing of passengers and their baggage, as well as providing passenger amenities, airline/airport administration functions and support facilities. The proposed Combined Services Building will be a single story structure of approximately 10,100 sq. ft. The CSB will accommodate airport and domestic fire services and an airport maintenance garage. Facilities will include vehicle storage bays for firefighting vehicles and maintenance equipment as well as space for administrative and support functions. The CSB is to be located adjacent to a new Air Traffic Control Tower that is being undertaken as a separate project. The TCIAA intends to tender the construction of the Passenger Terminal Building and Combined Services Building under a two-stage Design-Build procurement process. The first stage of the process is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) issued by the TCIAA to solicit submissions from qualified respondents for the provision of design-build services. The second stage of the process will be the issue of a Request for Proposal (RFP) to those proponents who have been short-listed, based on pre-established evaluation criteria, under the RFQ process. The RFQ process is a stand-alone stage of the competitive Proponent selection process. The RFQ is not a tender, an offer, or a Request for Proposal (RFP). Those wishing to receive a copy of the Request of Qualifications are asked to contact:
John T. Smith, CEO Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority johntsmith@tciairports.com
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LOCAL NEWS
PDM says mentally ill patients are not criminals
result of being stabbed with a sharp object. This incident resulted in no real changes, and the mentally ill continue We have gone on record as to be held at HM Prison. recent as a few months ago as to the We believe that this incident need to remove the mentally ill from exposed the Government to a lawsuit HM Prison just as we call for the as it certainly exposed civil servants to removal of juveniles. There must be harm having neither been trained nor proper facilities to address the needs required under their job descriptions of these two groups currently housed to manage these persons. We had at HM Prison. hoped that representations on this Last year, a mentally issue would have raised the profile challenged inmate attacked several and awareness of the challenge and prison officers whilst they attempted that the Government would see it fit to to ensure he got his medical treatment. address the matter. More than one Officer sustained Recently, the public has now injuries from this encounter and one become aware of a mentally ill patient lost sight in his eye permanently as a who had been housed at the Prison in by Hon. Sharlene Cartwrigth-Robinson
Leader of the Oppisition
excess of 6 years and who passed away under circumstances that is causing even international bodies heads to turn. We are wondering when will the Government’s head turn out of concern for the patients, the prison workers and this country’s reputation? Housing the mentally ill at a Prison is a sad state of affairs. Once again we see the need to call out the Government and ask them to address the need to care for all of our citizens especially our vulnerable citizens. Whilst we focus today on those that are committed to the Prison, this Government must do more to provide the resources needed to address the needs of the mentally challenged
on the street, and those residing at home and presenting challenges. We commend the Department, like other Departments of Government, for the work it continues to attempt to do with so little. This recent incident, whilst under investigation must speak to the hearts and minds of those in authority with the power to allocate funding to address this matter with urgency. We must see the risk to our civil servants who work at the Prison and also the rights of the patient who requires facilities that can adequately address their needs. This present state of affairs cannot continue as is.
TCIG receives training in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) The Government of the Turks and to project preparation and finally Caicos Islands is pleased to inform the “Although PPP’s generally deliver transaction implementation and general public that Deputy Secretaries superior results, they are more monitoring.” Mrs. Shonia Thomas-Been and Mr. complex to structure and implement Desmond Wilson recently returned than traditional public projects. One The initial three-day workshop from a CDB hosted workshop (in major constraint in progressing PPP’s was held at the CDB Headquarters, partnership with the World Bank is the lack of multi-faceted technical Barbados from September 28 – and the Inter-American Development capacity in governments to make well- October 2, 2015. The two participants Bank) entitled ‘PPP Basics and informed decisions”, said Mr. Wilson. are expected to travel during the Enabling Environment’. month of November to complete the “Hence the three-part PPP Boot Camps second module entitled ‘Building a In area of capital project delivery, for senior technical government PPP Business Case’, which will be PPP’s are seen as better alternatives staff intended to fill this gap, by held at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate whenever they are expected, from improving the knowledge and skills School of Business, Port of Spain, the public’s perspective, to bring of participants in all areas of PPPs. Trinidad. The third and final module forth more value-for-money than Themes covered ranged from policies ‘Implementing PPP Projects’ module conventional public project delivery. and enabling environment, through will be in Jamaica, in January 2016.
AUTOMOTIVE PAINT TECHNICIAN An Automotive Paint Technician is required for a firm based in Providenciales. Duties include but are not limited to mixing all paint, maintaining accurate database for mixed paints and current OEM paint mixing schemes, maintaining up to date database of all standard domestic and international vehicles, care and cleaning of all computer equipment, parts etc. Applicant must have at least 15 years experience with automotive paint mixing. Application must be submitted no later than November 13, 2015 to: Employment Department F Corporate & Management Services Limited Tel 649-339-6275 Fax 649-941-4777
When the remaining modules are completed, it is expected that regional governments will be sufficiently prepared to implement their own PPP programs, of course with support from the CDB’s Regional Public-Private Partnership Support Facility and the networks that are being established during the training. Both the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning respectfully offer congratulatory remarks to team for their participation and continued hard work.
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Amanyara boss calls for greater TCI Community College support
to be funding. I think this is the area where the students of the community would benefit, they probably would all Marco Franck, General benefit together,” Franck said. Manager for Amanyara is calling on He said that Monday’s event his colleagues in the hotel industry to was just a small taste of what was support the growth and development to come from Amanyara’s support of of the Turks and Caicos Islands education. Community College Hospitality “We, at Amanyara, would Department to enable that the like to see these bright and beautiful institution produces top-notch people work with us, and work in all employee for the tourism industry. the other hotels. There is a lot of talent Franck was speaking at the here at the college,” Franck said. opening of the Ve’ Nook Café at the TCI Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Community College Providenciales Ewing said he was delighted to Campus on Monday, October 16, continue to see private sector giving 2015, where his resort and Gilley’s back and partnering with the various Enterprise were pointed out as the government departments and entities headline supporters. to assist the further development of The restaurant will open only the people of the Turks and Caicos on Thursday between 11:30 a.m. and Islands. 3p.m. “I am delighted to see so many Franck urged that of you from the private sector ,who professionals in the industry, such see the need to give our young people as chefs and mixologists lend their the opportunity to development time to the college on a voluntary themselves and to become the next basis, so that the students get a sound elite in culinary industry here in the education that upon leaving the Turks and Caicos. college would be able to seamlessly “I am very confident that the join the various resorts across the students here also appreciate your country. efforts and your work for them, and “What would be very providing the opportunity for them interesting is that a lot of people on to get the necessary training that island who are experts in culinary, they need, so they can capitalize on experts in beverage, to contribute the various opportunities that will be their time; it doesn’t necessarily has made available to them now and also By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor
in the future,” the Premier said. Deputy Premier and Minister for Youth, Sport and Library Service Hon. Akierra Missick said that the Community College Hospitality Department can boast and celebrate that, even before the opening of a full-fledge restaurant, a number of its past students have been starring in a number of establishments across the tourism industry. “Today, they would be able to boast even more that hands-on, practical approach and attention has been given to them. And it is with your kind generosity, and with initiative of a complete overhaul of the hospitality department and introducing The Ve’ Nook Café, that the rest of the Turks and Caicos, and those living on Providenciales can celebrate with the college and its students,” she said. Minister Missick said that the students, who from time to time have been asked to volunteer at events, have been superb in the execution of their duty, adding that with the opening of the restaurant at the college, they can only grow from strength to strength. Missick pleaded with more businesses to come on board with their support of the college. For her part, Minister of Tourism Hon. Porsha Stubbs-Smith, pleaded to tourism interests present,
to encourage the support of local artisans such as those art and craft. President of the College Dr. Hubert Fulford said he hopes that others would come on board to support the college, while supporting other areas within the education sector. “It is very important that our partners in the industry begin to partner with us as we try our best to produce persons that you would be proud, to have in your establishments. And so, this gesture today, indicates to us that we are on a good footing,” he said. Samuel Forbes, Principal for the College For years, said that its hospitality department, in realizing its importance to the growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands, has been working assiduously to obtain training facilities that would carry out its mandate. “About a year ago, the Golf Club, in conjunction the Community College Foundation, raised some $22,500 to assist us. Shortly after that, the Amanyara Resort, with its support, the Wine Cellar and Gilley’s Enterprise, through their executives, thought they could do better. “So, we are grateful for efforts of those persons for bringing us a state-of-the-arts kitchen and dining facility, which would enable our students to practice,” Forbes said.
The Asu Restaurant At the Alexandra Resort is inviting applications for the following position:
___________________________________________________________________ LINE COOK
We are looking for Professional Cooks to prepare food items to the Chef ’s exact specification. Must be able to set up stations for the entire line. The successful candidate will play a key role in contributing to our customer satisfaction and acquisition goal. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
From left Deputy Premier and Minister of Education Hon. Akierra Missick, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing and Marco Franck, General Manager for the Amanyara Resort, about to cut the ribbon to the Ve’ Nook Café on the Provo campus of the TCI Community College
•Set and stock stations with all necessary supplies; •Prepare for service (e.g. preparing and cooking vegetables, butchering meat and fish, prepping and making sauces); •Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the line staffs; •Answer, report and follow executive sous chef instructions; •Clean up stations and take care of leftover food items; •Stock inventory appropriately; •Ensure that all food items come out simultaneously in high quality and in a timely manner; •Comply with nutrition and sanitation regulations and safety standards. REQUIREMENTS:
•Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and procedures; •Accuracy and speed in executing assigned tasks; •Familiar with industry’s best practices; •Culinary school Diploma.
Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience.
VE NOOK CAFE
Please Submit Applications to: hr@alexandraresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI labour Department. Submissions to be no later than November 13th, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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Join us for the launching of our Renewable Energy Programs!
Meet with solar vendors and installers Speak with financing specialists
Enjoy free food and refreshments Giveaways and raffle drawing
Wednesday, November 11, 2015 11:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m.
Learn about . . . .
Customer Owned Renewable Energy
. . . .
Utility Owned Renewable Energy
Win this solar grill!
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
PLEASE CALL US FOR NEWER VEHICLES 649-941-3910 MILEAGE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Old Airport Road | Providenciales | Turks & Caicos Islands | E-Mail: p_mystique@tciway.tc
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Caribbean Utility Regulators hold 13TH Annual Conference in TCI The opening ceremony for the OOCUR (Organisation Of Caribbean Utility Regulators) was held from Wednesday October 28th, 2015 – October 30th, 2015, at Beaches Resort and Spa, under the theme ‘Facilitating A Dynamic Regulatory Environment’. The opening ceremony was well attended. The chairperson was Mr. John Williams, Director General- Turks and Caicos Telecommunications Commission (TCITC). The National Anthem was by performed by a band from the Enid Capron Primary School, the National Song by Ms. Robyn Hinds, prayer by Bishop Dr. Coleta Williams III of Abundant Life Ministries International, welcome remarks by Mr. John Avery- Chairman of OOCUR (Organization of Caribbean Utility Regulators), Hon. Porsha Stubbs-Smith, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Culture and Heritage, His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham. The feature address was given by Hon. George Lightbourne Minister of Home Affairs, Transportation and communications, and there was a Cultural performance by Mr. David Bowen and vote of thanks by Mrs. Heather Allen Chairman- Telecommunications commission(TCITC). The purpose and objective of OOCUR is
to assist in the improvement of utility regulation, to foster transparent and stable utility regulation through autonomous and independent regulators in member countries, to undertake research, training and development and to facilitate understanding of regulation issues and sharing of information and experience. OOCUR INC. is a non-profit organisation, established by an Agreement dated July 26, 2002 in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The general Assembly is made up of representatives from the following member regulators: Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority, Members of OECS, Fair Trading Commission, Barbados, Independent Regulatory Commission, Dominica, Office of Utilities Regulatory, Jamaica, Public Utilities Commission, Anguilla, Public Utilities Commission, Belize, Public Utilities Commission, Guyana, Regulated Industries Commission, Trinidad & Tobago, Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, The Bahamas, telecommunications Commission, Turks and Caicos Islands, Virgin Islands Public Services Commission, US Virgin Islands. These are some photographs from the Opening Ceremony:
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
Before the storm. During the storm. After the storm.
We are here.
Thank you FortisTCI staff -Eddinton Powell FortisTCI President & CEO
www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 | P.O. Box 132 1030 Leeward HWY, Providenciales, TCI
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
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HEALTHY
LIFESTYLE
Tuberculosis now rivals AIDS as leading cause of death: WHO
For the first time, tuberculosis infections rivaled HIV/AIDS as a leading cause of death from infectious diseases, the World Health Organization said in a report released on Wednesday. It found that during 2014, 1.1 million people died of TB in 2014. During the same period, HIV/AIDS killed 1.2 million people globally, including 400,000 who were infected with both HIV and TB. Dr. Mario Raviglione, director of the WHO TB program, said the report reflects the dramatic gains in access to HIV/AIDS treatment in the past decade, which has helped many people survive their infections. But it also reflects disparities in funding for the two global killers. "The good news is that TB intervention has saved some 43 million lives since 2000," but given that most cases of TB can be successfully treated,
the death rate remained "unacceptably high," Raviglione said in a telephone interview. The report features data from 205 countries and territories on all aspects of TB, including drug-resistant forms, research and development and financing. It found that 6 million new cases of TB were reported to the WHO in 2014, fewer than two-thirds of the 9.6 million people worldwide estimated
be done to reduce the burden of this ancient, yet curable disease." Funding disparities were a key issue, Raviglione said, noting that international funding for HIV/ AIDS is 10 times higher than for TB, with $8 million spent on HIV/AIDS interventions, compared with a total of $800,000 spent on TB. Part of that disparity is because HIV/AIDS largely affects resource-poor countries in Africa, whereas TB is more prevalent in to have fallen sick with TB last year. countries such as India and China, Among the estimated 480,000 cases which are better able to finance their of multi-drug resistant TB in 2014 own domestic efforts to address TB - a superbug form of the disease that infections. resists the two most potent anti-TB Even so, there remains a $1.4 drugs -, only one in four was diagnosed. billion gap in the amount of funding Dr. Grania Brigden, interim medical needed for TB interventions in 2015. Clinical lead Doctor Al Story points to an director of Médecins Sans Frontières, Raviglione said it is time to start x-ray showing a pair of lungs infected with TB or Doctors Without Borders, said the funding TB at a level that can make (tuberculosis) during an interview with Reuters report "should serve as a wake-up even more of a difference in curbing on board the mobile X-ray unit screening for TB in call that enormous work still needs to global deaths. Ladbroke Grove in London
Guinea records three new cases of Ebola, brings total to nine
Three more people in Guinea have been infected with the Ebola virus, a senior health official said on Wednesday, further dampening hopes of an imminent end to the world's worst recorded outbreak of the disease. The three were infected in Forecariah in western Guinea from the family of a woman who died of Ebola and whose body was handled without appropriate protection, said
Fode Tass Sylla, spokesman for the national center for the fight against Ebola. "In all, nine sick people are being treated at our centres throughout the country and most are connected to the dead woman," he told Reuters, adding that authorities had known of the three fresh cases since Saturday. The epidemic began when a 2-year-
old boy fell ill in a remote Guinean village on Dec. 26, 2013, and now risks dragging into a third year and into 2016. It has killed around 11,300 people out of around 28,500 known cases in Guinea and neighboring Liberia and Sierra Leone, according to U.N. World Health Organization figures. Liberia was declared free of
Ebola transmission on Sept. 3 after 42 days with no new cases, while Sierra Leone will be declared Ebola free on Nov. 7 if there is no new transmission, the WHO said. The 42-day countdown only starts once the last patient tests negative a second time, normally after a 48-hour gap following their first negative test.
Hope Corner
Autism Awareness: The Comfort of Structure In a fast paced world where millions of variables are at work in a singular moment, it's hard to remember that we all still belong to a cycle or a structure, albeit one that can be difficult to pin point at any given time. We have cycles of sleeping, eating, work, and even our moods can be cyclical depending on climate, personal environment or based on who we are talking to at the moment! More importantly, we enjoy these cycles and often rely on these structured routines so we can minimize anxiety and maximize comfort. This comfort comes from knowing or visualizing our day, week or month and therefore minimizing the feelings of an
unknown future. Our loved ones, friends and neighbours with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are no different. They also feel comfort with routine and structure. Since they have an added challenge of processing an excessive amount of external stimuli rapidly, they can feel spikes in anxiety from even the smallest unknown event. Imagine you’re in a taxi going on a date and you have been excited and anxious about it for weeks. You are running late and suddenly the taxi driver makes an unexpected turn the wrong way! The anxiety you feel from this unexpected change is what a child or adult with ASD feels
with unplanned changes in routine. They already feel high anxiety from general sensory overload and an added unplanned interruption can cause them extreme anxiety and sometimes outburst behaviours. Perhaps not that different than how you may respond when the taxi driver turns the wrong way! For this reason consistency is one of the most important concepts to remember when working with ASD. Developing a controlled environment through written or visual daily schedules assists children and adults with ASD to feel more comfortable and safe in a world that is already unsettling for them on a daily basis.
It’s important to remember that many of the same concepts you and I live by are also important for individuals with ASD and in many cases, more so. Follow the Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness’ “Hope Corner” weekly in the TCI Sun where future articles will discuss strategies that assist in making the world a less anxious and more secure place for our friends with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Josh F. McKenzie, Behavioural Consultant BA,ABA,VRA Working with The Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness TCI Inc.
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LOCAL NEWS
HAB Group wishes to recruit a PRE CONTRACT QUANTITY SURVEYOR/ESTIMATOR The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate considerable experience in the preparation of all pre-contract construction documentation including but not limited to; detailed take offs, bills of quantities, specification production, material scheduling. The candidate will also need to be experience in the co-ordination and control of various design consultants employed in the pre contract design process with relevant input to the design process. The candidate will be required to demonstrate a familiarity with relevant industry standard compute software such as Autodesk, AutoCAD, Autodesk Design Review and Collaborative Project management software as well as standard Microsoft Office products. Applicants for this position will possess relevant industry recognized qualifications in addition to 12 years or more practical experience. The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, training and education. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by November 16, 2015 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
䌀爀攀愀琀攀 礀漀甀爀 伀眀渀 一愀洀攀
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
Deluxe Enterprises Ltd.
Musician - $7.00 General General Worker Salary - $6.00 Worker - $6.50 Telephone Telephone 946-8876 946-8876 KENNISHA’S BABY SITTER
RESTAURANT
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
OFFICE CLEANER J & D Office Supplies requires a COPIER TECHNICIAN Specifically with a XEROX certification. Salary is 18K per annum Please email resume to jdofficesupplies@tciway.tc Missick Bidg, Airport Road, Providenciales, Tel (649)-941-5367 Fax (649)-941-4686
Delta Air Lines Inc Is seeking to fill the position of Customer Service Supervisor.
The suitable candidate must have a minimum of 4 years in the airline customer service field as a supervisor and must be in possession of a valid US visa. Applications must be sent no later than Monday, November 16, 2016 to: The Manager, Delta Airlines Email: info@misickstanbrook.tc Fax: (649) 946-4734 Tel.: (649) 946-4732
An Office Cleaner is required for a Company based in Providenciales. Salary commensurate with experience. Application must be submitted to on or before November 13, 2015: Employment Department F Corporate & Management Services Limited Tel 649-339-6275 Fax 649-333-7777 Email oa@fcorporatemsl.com
CLUB SODAX
Telephone 946-8876 MS DONNETTA ROSS
SEEKS BARBER HAIRDRESSER Salary negotiable To work 6 days per week Contact 333-6695
Seeks 1 Live in Maid Applicant must be honest reliable & hardworking fluent in English & French Contact 241-4074
SEEKS
1 domestic worker salary $6.50 per hour Contact : 244-2088
Cocktail Waitress Salary - $6.50
SHARPER IMAGE BARBERSHOP
CARIBBEAN BEACHIN CLOTHING LTD
Esthetician Must have at least 10 years experience, Must have experience in makeup & waxing, Salary negotiable Interested person should contact 331-0221
FIRM FOUNDATION MINISTRIES INT’L
JEAN BAPTIST MILIEN
SEEKS 1 DOMESTIC WORKER Salary $6.25 per hour Contact 342-5819
A Baby Sitter is required for a family in Providenciales. Salary commensurate with experience. Application must be submitted no later than November 13, 2015 to: Employment Department F Corporate & Management Services Limited Tel 649-339-6275 Fax 649-333-7777
BEEN’S CONSTRUCTION
SEEKS 1 Carpenter Salary $10.00 per hour Interested person should contact 231-6920
Prestige Beauty Salon & Boutique
Is seeking employment for the following: 1 Cosmetologist Salary is $6.50 per hour Interested candidate may contact the employer at 345-2403 for further details regarding employment
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CARIBBEAN WORLD
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
NEWS NEWS
Two men arrested in Tobago after murder of British couple
Mr and Mrs Wheeler were ‘friendly, always smiling, always laughing’ Two suspects have been arrested in Trinidad and Tobago after a British lawyer and his wife were killed in an apparent robbery. Richard Wheeler, 73, and his wife Grace, 67, were discovered at their home in the village of Carnbee. They appeared to have suffered a merciless attack inside their home in the town of Carnbee. Mrs Wheeler was discovered outside their house in the garden – perhaps because she had tried to flee the assault. She was found lying face down on the lawn with her throat slashed. The body of her husband, meanwhile, laid inside the house with severe wounds. The living room and a bedroom appeared to have been ransacked, suggesting that simple theft was the motive for the intrusion. The Tobago Law Association paid tribute to the couple and offered condolences
to the Wheeler family for their “tragic loss”. A statement praised Mr Wheeler as a “distinguished member” of the legal profession, adding: “The association condemns this most vicious attack and calls for an immediate and thorough investigation into the double murder and calls upon the public to assist the police in providing the necessary information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible”. Tobago is the smaller of the two main islands comprising the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The Commonwealth country gained independence from Britain in 1962. It suffered from a significant level of violent crime, often linked to drug smuggling. The two men arrested are construction workers and are expected to appear before a magistrate on
Tuesday. Assistant police commissioner Vincel Edwards said one suspect is a Tobago man and the other is from St Vincent. A police statement said: “An initial assessment suggests robbery as the possible motive as the bedroom and living room areas were ransacked. However, all avenues are being explored and all leads pursued.” A Foreign Office spokesman said: “Following the death of a British national in Tobago on 20 October , our staff are travelling to the island to support family members at this difficult time. “They will also meet senior police officers investigating this terrible crime after our high commissioner spoke with Trinidad and Tobago’s police commissioner earlier today.” Diane Hadad, chairman of the Tobago Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce, said Mr Wheeler, who is an employee at Lex Caribbean reportedly from Sheffield, was a “gentleman” and called the murder a “tragedy”. Hadad, who lives near the couple, said they were “friendly, always smiling, always laughing”, adding: “They led a simple life, a friendly life. They were not people who caused trouble.” She said Mr Wheeler was a “professional” at work who “always looked at both sides of an argument”. She added that the community has been rocked by the murder and called on authorities to act. She said: “As a community we must take care of each other, we must respect human life. We are hoping the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
St. Lucia looks to Middle East for investment The St. Lucia government Tuesday announced it had opened a Honorary Consul office in Saudi Arabia as it seeks to expand the business and tourism profile of the island in the Middle East. An official statement noted that the office established at “no cost to the government of St. Lucia,” will commence operations on November 1 and that Halla Walid Al Juffali has been appointed as Honorary Consul based in Jeddah. It said that she recently visited St. Lucia to meet with government and other stakeholders “in preparation for her responsibilities as the representative of the government of St. Lucia in Saudi Arabia. The statement said that among her first duties as Consul will be to host a training workshop with travel agents in Saudi Arabia, adding that “the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of the largest economies in the Middle East and is the largest producer and exporter of oil in the world. It is the only Arab country to be part of the G-20 major economies”.
ECLAC says foreign direct investment in the Caribbean declined in first half of 2015 SANTIAGO,Oct. 18, CMC – The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) says the flows of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) towards Latin American and Caribbean countries declined 21 percent during the first half of this year compared to the same period of last year. Om Friday, ECLAC said the decline for the first half this year amounted to US$88,717 million. The data is the update ECLAC issues each year on the main figures of the “Foreign Direct Investment in Latin America and the Caribbean” report, the latest edition of which was launched in May. Among the factors attributed for the decline are the fall of investments in mining and hydrocarbons due to the reduction of international prices, China’s deceleration and the region’s negative economic growth. The growth is estimated to -0.3 percent for 2015 while outgoing FDI from Latin America and the Caribbean also declined (-7 percent) during the first half of 2015.
T&T reassures citizens after woman dies from Swine Flu PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad— Health authorities yesterday sought to re-assure the population after a woman is believed to have died from the H1N1 Influenza (swine flu). The woman, Cherrie Ryce, 46, died at the San Fernando General Hospital on Saturday. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said influenza is an acute illness that can be caused by several different viruses, including H1N1, H3N2, and other respiratory viruses that circulate in all parts of the world. “Safe and effective vaccines that can prevent influenza or reduce the severity of illness are available at local health centres. Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious complications
of influenza and for people who live with or care for high risk individuals,” the ministry said. “In tropical countries, such as ours, influenza occurs throughout the year, unlike countries with colder climates when seasonal epidemics occur during the colder months,” the statement said, noting that in Trinidad and Tobago more than 6,000 suspected cases of influenza are reported yearly. Symptoms of influenza, said the ministry, can include high fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, runny nose, and generally feeling unwell. “Most people recover within a week without any medical attention. However, influenza can
cause severe illness in some persons, including the elderly, infants, young children, and pregnant women, as well as those with chronic medical conditions, such as heart, lung, kidney disease, and diabetes.” The ministry said it would continue to “monitor all diseases of public health importance” and urged the public to ensure that they follow proper sanitary guidelines so as to protect their health. “Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms. If you have symptoms of the flu, seek immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms develop: Difficulty breathing, chest tightness, inability to eat or drink, persistent vomiting, or confusion.
Former Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan was quoted in the media as saying that he had been aware of the death of the woman, but withheld information because he did not want anyone to panic. “Yes, I knew about it. I am in the medical fraternity so I must know. I heard about it and I decided to coach my release not to panic people. “I tend to get a lot of information through my medical colleagues and I was able to indicate to the people to be careful of the H1N1. I did not want to say it was here in Trinidad to panic anyone, but I gave them tips on how to protect themselves in terms of certain factors,” he said.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Study says Caribbean exports decreased in the first half of 2015
SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica, October 17, 2016, CMC – A new InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) says exports of Latin American and Caribbean goods fell 10.9 per cent in the first half of 2015 compared to the same period in 2014. The study, Trade and Integration Monitor 2015, notes it is the “steepest drop” since the 2009 trade collapse. The IDB’s says that the contraction in exports, which had begun in mid-2014, has worsened this year as a result of a substantial decline in China’s demand and steep reductions averaging 37.1 per cent in the prices of commodities between June 2014 and June 2015. The drop in the region’s exports also reflects the overall contraction in global trade, according to the study, presented here at a
seminar organized by the IDB and INCAE Business School. “The favorable conditions that fueled the region’s exports over the last decade have waned, and so it is crucial to diversify our exports through the implementation of trade promotion policies as well as policies to make use of trade agreements and enhance productivity,” said Paolo Giordano, Principal Economist of the IDB’s Integration and Trade Sector, and coordinator of the report. Giordano said that, in 2014, the region’s exports had dropped by 2.8 per cent, adding that, in the first half of 2015,” numbers deteriorated further.” The IDB said the South American countries were the most affected (-17.7 per cent) due to a fall in the price of raw materials and a shrinking regional manufacturing
market. The Caribbean countries (-14.9 per cent) experienced this deterioration in a context of overall economic vulnerability, the IDB said. In Mexico (-2.2 percent) and Central America (-3.4 percent), the IDB said there was a negative trend shift vis-à-vis the previous year in spite of a greater diversification of exports. Exports of services also were affected, as they grew by only 1.8 percent, compared to 4.7 percent the previous year, the IDB said. The report analyzes the region’s overall economic situation, characterized by greater exchange rate volatility and prospects of higher international financing costs, and underlines the urgent need to implement public policies aimed at promoting trade diversification.
The report compiles the most recent statistics, analyzes the trade performance of the region, and includes a chapter on the evolution of export diversification over the last decade. The analysis is based on the indicators provided by INTrade, the IDB’s trade and integration database. According to the Monitor, the slowdown in the growth of the developing countries, both intraand extra regional, has not yet been offset by the emerging momentum of the United States economy and the troubled recovery of the European countries. Furthermore, the report states sustained appreciation of the US dollar and the low demand worldwide account for the reduction in primary commodity prices affecting regional exporters.
Jamaica: Man accused of chopping female boss to death
Ganja
Trinidad: Shotgun, ammo, ganja seized
POLICE have arrested and charged a 50-year-old Moruga man with possession of a firearm and ammunition after finding him standing at the entrance of a hunting camp in the Moruga forest holding a homemade shotgun on Monday morning. A total of five 12 gauge cartridges were also discovered in the man’s front pants pocket. Before leaving, officers also intercepted a white Isuzu four-door pick-up van which was seen leaving the area and they seized $75,000 worth of marijuana which was hidden in the vehicle. A 49-yearold man of La Lune, Moruga — who was the driver of the pick-up — was arrested. The vehicle was impounded. In the first incident, a police report stated that at about 1 am on Monday, officers of the Moruga Police Station were on enquiries at Edward Trace in Moruga,
when they saw a hunting camp on the eastern side of the roadway and also observed a man holding a shotgun which he quickly placed on a platform in the camp when he saw the officers approaching. A g Cpl Teeluck laid the charge against the suspect of La Fortune Trace, Moruga. Moments later, the same officers intercepted the pick-up van which was proceeding in a westerly direction out of Edward Trace. The vehicle was stopped and searched with the officers found two black bags containing marijuana together weighing 7.64 kilos. The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. The exercise was co-ordinated by Ag Sgt Farrell and supervised by Sgt Pacheco. Investigations are continuing.
A man accused of chopping his female employer to death, after she confronted him about some unfinished work on her farm, is now before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder. Sixty-one-year-old Anthony Kinghorn, a resident of Daiken District in rural St Andrew, was remanded when he appeared in court on Tuesday. It is alleged that on August 25, the woman — who is a British national — went to do business in the Corporate Area and returned some time after 6:00 pm. Upon her return, an argument developed between herself and Kinghorn over work she had given him to do earlier. During the argument, Kinghorn allegedly left the premises and returned later with a machete which he used to chop the woman
all over her body. Kinghorn reportedly went back to his house, set it ablaze and fled the area. However, it is alleged that he later confessed to a friend. Residents of the area, on learning of the incident, went in search of the woman, who was found under a tent suffering from chop wounds. She was taken to Kingston Public Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The machete was allegedly recovered at the crime scene. Meanwhile, Kinghorn was accosted on September 7 during a police operation in Denham Town, downtown Kingston. When he was cautioned he reportedly declared, “Officer, a just ignorance mek mi kill her, mi nah go round yuh.” He is set to reappear in court on November 6.
Relatives of murdered family members deny link to lottery scam KINGSTON, Jamaica -The family of the six people, who were murdered after gunmen kicked down the door to their house last Thursday, is denying that the murders may have been as a result of the criminal lottery scam. One family member, speaking on RJR News, insists that none of the family members were connected to the scamming activities whereby elderly people, mainly in the United States, are cheated out of their savings. Police investigators say the attack on the family is being linked to several criminal activities including lottery scamming. But, the relative, who was not identified said the murders are linked to a recent altercation involving one of the victims and the suspect now in police custody. The relative said death threats were made to the victim during
a recent altercation, which became physical. The information was related to the police who are investigating the claims. Police have identified those killed as 63-year-old Linnette Bloomfield, her 40-year-old son, Mark Bloomfield; her 36-year-old daughter, Kerry-Ann Bloomfield; and her nephew, 30-year-old Byron Mangaroo. Kerry-Ann Bloomfield’s two children – 15-year-old Davion Mahabee and 18-year-old Alia Mahabee – were also killed in the attack. Four other family members were injured during the attack. The gunmen later burnt the house. Meanwhile, the prime suspect in the killings is expected to be questioned on Tuesday. Police said they detained the suspect over the last weekend during a police operation in Hanover.
OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaica: Three Students Charged With Rape And Abduction Freed
Two boys and a girl of the Seaforth High School in St Thomas who were arrested and charged in the summer of 2014 for the Forcible Abduction and Rape of their female schoolmate have walked free from the St Thomas Children’s Court. When they appeared in Court yesterday afternoon, the complainant expressed a wish not to proceed with the case. The Crown offered no further evidence at the request of the complainant. According to police reports, in the summer of last year the four along with other children were at a Cookout in the community of Dumphries in the parish. It was alleged that the girl and one of the boys held the complainant and allowed the other boy to rape her. The matter was reported to the Morant Bay Police who later arrested and charged the three students.
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Haiti faces long wait for results of presidential election
OAS to observe Belize elections WASHINGTON, Oct 17, CMC – The Organization of American States (OAS) says it will send an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Belize for the November 4 general elections in that Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country. The Washington-based hemispheric body said the EOM’s mission is in accordance with an agreement it signed with the Belize government. OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro said the EOM will be the 12th carried out in the region this year, underscoring the work of missions as “guarantors of democracy in the Caribbean country and in the Americas.” On October 25, the OAS will be deploying EOMs in Colombia, Guatemala, and Haiti. A few days later, it will be sending a mission to the legislative elections in Paraguay. Almagro said there is a possibility of additional ones before year’s end, “particularly in the Caribbean where the OAS has observed elections in all countries, except Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. “It is an active schedule that demonstrates the OAS EOMs are, therefore, making a meaningful contribution to the strengthening of democracy in the hemisphere,” Almagro said. Permanent Representative of Belize to the OAS, Patrick Andrews, acknowledged the OAS’ support and conveyed his government’s commitment to facilitate the work of the EOM. “As has been said by our Prime Minister (Dean Barrow) and our government, we will ensure fair and democratic elections,” he said. “We are looking forward to their successful conclusion, and I will keep you informed of how things develop, as I know the mission will, too.” The OAS said it will be the second time that it is deploys an EOM to Belize after the 2012 general and municipal elections in that country. In addition to the electoral process itself, the OAS said the EOM will pay particular attention to political financing, electoral organization and gender equity. The OAS said that the agreement on privileges and immunities provides that the EOM will arrive in Belize a week prior to the elections. The ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) and the main opposition People’s United Party (PUP) are expected to name candidates for all 31 constituencies. In the last general election, the UDP won 17 of the 31 seats.
People stand in line to vote during elections in the Petion-Ville suburb of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015. P O R T- A U - P R I N C E , Haiti — Haiti’s voters have spoken. But nobody’s quite sure what they’ve said. Even tentative results of Sunday’s presidential election likely won’t be known for at least 10 days, despite the fact that the election, which involved 54 presidential candidates and tens of thousands of contenders for other races, went unusually smoothly. Few places in the world take longer to give citizens any hint of who won an election. One reason is that it’s against the law for results to be released by anyone other than the Provisional Electoral Council, whose members are replaced every election cycle. “A lot of the learning that is accrued every time they go through an election process seems to be lost,” said Kenneth Merten, Haiti special coordinator for the U.S. State Department and a former U.S. ambassador to the country. Haitian and international observers said Sunday’s vote was largely free of the violence and disorder that has plagued previous elections, including the first round of legislative elections in early August. Haiti appears to be “moving in the right direction,” said Celso Amorim, chief of the Organization of American States’ 125-member observer mission. But watchdog groups said they are trying to keep a close eye on transportation and count of ballots.
Under guard by Haitian police and U.N. peacekeepers, Sunday’s ballots and pollingplace counts were being trucked from the countryside across often-dilapidated roads to a warehouse tabulation center in the capital of Port-au-Prince on Monday. “Fraud can occur especially during the transportation and certification of ballots,” said Abdonel Doudou, a member of the umbrella group Citizen Observatory for Institutionalizing Democracy, which deployed 1,830 observers across the country on election day. Amorim said OAS observers will be present 24 hours a day at the warehouse tabulation center until the results of the first round of presidential elections are released. He dismissed concerns about reactions to the likely announcement of the two presidential candidates for the runoff, assuming no single candidate ends up dominating the vote. “Democracy is like that,” he said. “Not everyone will be happy.” The Observatory estimated turnout at perhaps 29 or 32 percent, an improvement from the 18 percent turnout in August’s parliamentary elections. Years of broken promises by governments that have failed to provide basic services have fed significant voter apathy in Haiti. Dumel Richardson, spokesman for Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council,
said preliminary results could be issued in 10 days. Final results are not expected until late November, at least, due to political factions contesting tallies. Despite the relatively orderly voting across the mountainous nation of some 10 million people, there were some logistical problems and allegations of fraud. Ballots were burned at four polling stations in northern Haiti, said Mosler Georges, executive director of the Provisional Electoral Council. Police said they made 234 arrests for various irregularities and seized 13 guns. The winner of the Dec. 27 presidential runoff will face challenges that include improving the nation’s impoverished economy and weaning it off dependence on foreign aid donors. Among the best-known candidates is Jude Celestin, a former head of the state-run construction company who was the government-backed candidate in the 2010 race. That time, he was eliminated from a runoff after his reported secondplace finish was challenged by foreign observers who complained of irregularities. Other top candidates include outgoing President Michel Martelly’s pick, entrepreneur Jovenel Moise, and Moise Jean-Charles, an ex-senator and sharp critic of Martelly who brands himself the voice for Haiti’s poor and disenfranchised.
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WORLD
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OCTOBER 30TH, 2015 – NOVEMBER 6TH, 2015
NEWS
House Republicans elect Ryan as speaker WASHINGTON — Republicans rallied behind Rep. Paul Ryan to elect him to the powerful post of House speaker on Thursday as the splintered party turned to the youthful but battle-tested lawmaker to mend its self-inflicted wounds and craft a conservative message to woo voters in next year’s elections. In a roll call, 236 Republicans called out the Ryan — a former Republican vice presidential candidate — as their pick for the top job. That put Ryan second in line to the presidency and atop a chamber that has been awash in tumult ever since defiant conservatives hounded Rep. John Boehner, into announcing his resignation from that post last month. Just nine hard-line conservatives voted against Ryan, instead backing a little known Florida lawmaker. Most of them, including members of the rebellious House Freedom Caucus, backed Ryan, though it was clear that future tensions between them and Ryan could not be discounted. The House is broken,” Ryan said in his first remarks to the chamber, seemingly referring as much to a Republican civil war between hard-liners and pragmatists as to the
House’s usual partisan divisions. “We are not settling scores. We are wiping the slate clean.” Ryan’s ascension came as Congress nears completion of a bipartisan accord to avert a jarring federal default next week and likely prevent a December government shutdown by setting spending levels for the next two years. The House approved the bill Wednesday 266-167, with final Senate passage on track in a few days, despite opposition from conservatives including senators seeking the Republican presidential nomination. The budget vote underscored Ryan’s challenge in leading Republicans who often have scant interest in compromise, especially with a Republican presidential contest dominated by candidates who vilify Washington insiders. Republicans opposed the budget deal by 167-79, but Democrats supported it unanimously. Conservatives complain that Boehner has been excessively powerful, forcing bills to the House floor without rank-and-filed input, dictating committee chairs and punishing rebels. One leader of the right-wing Freedom Caucus, Rep. Raul Labrador, said conservatives
45-year-old Ryan has been in Congress 17 years and has strong ties with all wings of the Republican Party expect Ryan to alter that. “We’re going to have his back for the next few months and make sure that we give him the opportunity to show that he can be the leader that we hope he can be,” Labrador said. Amiable and just 45, Ryan has been in Congress 17 years and has strong ties with all wings of the Republican Party. Past chairman of the House Budget Committee and current head of the Ways and Means panel, he’s put his imprint on deficit reduction, tax, health and trade
legislation — prime subjects that have raised his stature and put him at the center of many of Congress’ highest profile debates. Many Democrats like Ryan but none hesitate to attack him as a symbol of Republican policies they consider harsh. These include efforts to pare taxes for the rich, reshape Medicare — the government health care system for the elderly — into a voucher-like program and squeeze savings from Medicaid — the health care program for the poor.
Trump, Carson defend seriousness of White House bids BOULDER, Colorado — Marco Rubio bid forcefully for control of the Republican Party’s establishment wing in Wednesday night’s third Republican debate, deflecting jabs from Jeb Bush, who desperately sought to right his floundering campaign. Insurgent outsiders Donald Trump and Ben Carson defended the seriousness of their White House bids. Bush, the former Florida governor and son and brother of former presidents, was once seen as the top Republican contender. But he entered the debate in the midst of the most difficult stretch of his White House campaign. By attacking Rubio, a senator, for his spotty voting record on Capitol Hill, Bush signaled that he sees his fellow Floridian as the candidate most likely to block his political path. “Marco, when you signed up for this, this was a 6-year term and you should be showing up for work,” said Bush, who is struggling to right his campaign after being forced to slash spending in response to slower fundraising. Rubio, who has had a close relationship with Bush, responded sharply: “Someone has convinced you that attacking me is going to help you.” Bush and Rubio clashed for control of the party’s more mainstream wing in
John Kasich, left, and Donald Trump, second from right, argue across fellow candidates during the CNBC Republican presidential debate at the University of Colorado, Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015, in Boulder, Colo. the debate, which comes some three He bristled when asked by a debate months before the first votes are cast moderator if his policy proposals, in the race, leaving much time for including building a wall along the things to change. U.S.-Mexico border and deporting Trump, a brash billionaire everyone who is in the U.S. illegally, businessman, dominated in the polls amounted to a “comic book” campaign. for months, but Carson has recently “It’s not a very nicely asked question, taken the momentum and overtook the way you ask it,” Trump responded. Trump in polls in Iowa, where the Then he defended his proposals as first of the state-by-state contests will reasonable. be held. Neither Trump nor Carson Carson, a soft-spoken retired are career politicians but both have neurosurgeon, stuck to his low-key capitalized on anti-Washington, anti- style and sought to explain his vague establishment feeling among many tax policy, which he has compared to conservatives. tithing, in which families donate the Trump largely refrained from same portion of their income to their personal attacks on his rivals, which church regardless of how much they has been a signature of his campaign, make. even taking a light touch with Carson. Carson said in an earlier
debate that someone making $10 billion would pay $1 billion in taxes. Wednesday night he floated the idea of a 15 percent flat rate. Critics have questioned whether the government could still raise enough revenue under that type of flat tax system to pay for federal programs. The Republican nominee will most likely face Hillary Rodham Clinton, former first lady and secretary of state. The overwhelming favorite for the Democratic nomination, her candidacy received a boost from a strong debate performance two weeks ago. Ohio Gov. John Kasich and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie are each seeking to break through with more mainstream Republican voters. Kasich in particular was aggressive from the start in bemoaning the unexpected strength of unorthodox candidates. Also on stage were former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul and former technology executive Carly Fiorina, the star of the second Republican debate. Fiorina, the former Hewlett Packard CEO, has struggled to capitalize on that strong performance and has faded toward the back of the pack.
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Bobbi Kristina Brown Smoked Crack, Did Heroin “Often” Prior to Tragic Bathtub Death
More details are surfacing about how Bobbi Kristina Brown spent the last days of her life. In the newly released transcript of a videotaped deposition, Brown’s friend and former roommate Danyela Bradley details the late aspiring singer’s alleged drug use. “She smoked marijuana, she probably smoked crack often, and also did heroin,” Bradley claimed in the deposition, which was taken in connection with a car accident both she and Brown were involved in on Jan. 27, just days before Brown was found unconscious in a bathtub at her Atlanta, Ga. home. In the papers, obtained by Us Weekly on Monday, Oct. 26, Bradley also speaks out about her friendship with Whitney Houston’s only daughter, whom she met through Brown’s boyfriend, Nick Gordon, and his friend Max Lomas. “Me and Krissy became very, very close,” she said in the file. “Our relationship just grew as if we had [grown] into sisters up until her passing.” Bradley added that she, Brown, Gordon, and Lomas lived together in the house that Houston had left in her daughter’s name for about a month, spanning the beginning of the year
through Brown’s hospitalization. “When I first lived with her I didn’t know that she had actually had a problem with [drugs] until I had lived with her …for a couple of weeks,” she said of Brown’s alleged hard drug use. “[But] I guess after a few weeks she just didn’t really hide it.” Though Bradley would sometimes smoke marijuana with Brown, she says she never did any of the harder drugs, and claimed that Brown never talked about or did the cocaine or heroin in front of her. “I would just visually see her physical being and I could just tell,” she said, noting that Brown would get “very sleepy, nod off” and “kind of keep to herself” when she did heroin, and would “just be not even talkative” when she did crack. Asked what Brown’s relationship with Gordon was like, Bradley said the couple “had a very happy, loving relationship,” and that Gordon sometimes referred to himself as Brown’s “husband,” though the pair were not legally married to her knowledge. Earlier this month, Gordon was accused of injecting Brown with a fatal “toxic mixture” that may have led to her eventual death.
Bobbi Kristina Brown Smoked Crack, Did Heroin “Often” Prior to Tragic Bathtub Death, According to Friend’s Deposition Brown remained in a medically from her accounts after her induced coma for nearly six months hospitalization. before she passed away on July 26. Gordon’s team argues that She was 22 years old. because of the level of Brown’s fame, Brown’s conservator, Bedelia “Mr. Gordon will be unfairly, legally, Hargrove, has also accused Gordon and financially prejudiced should he of verbally and physically abusing be subject to parallel criminal and civil Brown, as well as withdrawing funds proceedings.”
US sheriff: School officer fired after tossing student COLUMBIA, South Carolina — A white police deputy was fired Wednesday after video showed him flipping a black teen backward out of her desk and tossing her across a classroom, with the sheriff saying the officer did not follow proper procedures and training. Deputy Ben Fields was told of his firing late Wednesday morning, Sheriff Leon Lott said. Fields had been a school resource officer at Spring Valley High School. The student was being disruptive and refused to leave the classroom despite being told by a teacher and administrator to do so, Lott said, and that’s when Fields was brought in Monday to remove
her from the class. She again claims Fields targeted blacks and refused, and Fields told her she was falsely accused him of being a gang under arrest, Lott said. member in 2013. In another case, She continued to refuse, and a federal jury sided with Fields at that point the video shows the after a black couple accused him of deputy flipping the teen backward excessive force and battery during and then throwing her across the a noise complaint arrest in 2005. A room. At that point, Lott said, Fields third lawsuit, dismissed in 2009, did not use proper procedure. involved a woman who accused him Lott said he would not of battery and violating her rights release Fields’ personnel file, saying during a 2006 arrest. only that some complaints have Calls for Fields to be fired been filed in the past against him, began mounting almost immediately none of which came from the school after the video surfaced, and the FBI district. began a civil rights investigation at Court records show at least Lott’s request. The confrontation was three complaints, though Fields captured on cellphones by students, prevailed in two of those cases. one of whom said it all started when Trial is set for January in the girl pulled out her cellphone and the case of an expelled student who refused her math teacher’s attempt
to take it away during class. “She now has a cast on her arm, she has neck and back injuries. She has a Band-Aid on her forehead where she suffered rug burn on her forehead,” Columbia attorney Todd Rutherford, who is representing the teen, told ABC’s “Good Morning America” on Wednesday. Lott had said Tuesday that the girl was uninjured in the confrontation but “may have had a rug burn.” The sheriff suspended Fields without pay Monday. Lott, who rushed home from an out of town conference when the news broke, said that a teacher and vice principal in the classroom at the time felt the officer acted appropriately.
France won’t extradite pilots who fled Dominican Republic PARIS — France’s government says it won’t extradite two French pilots who escaped the Dominican Republic to avoid 20year prison sentences for cocaine trafficking. Dominican authorities said Tuesday they would seek the men’s return to face justice. French government spokesman Stephane Le Foll said on RTL radio Wednesday that France will stick by its tradition of refusing to extradite its citizens.
He insisted that the French government wasn’t involved in the unusual escape by pilots Pascal Jean Fauret and Bruno Odos. He noted that the pilots are under investigation by French authorities in a parallel probe into the drug affair. The two men fled the Dominican Republic last week despite a court order to remain in the country pending an appeal of their conviction. They have denied wrongdoing.
French pilots Bruno Odos, left, and Pascal Jean Fauret, who have been formally charged with drug trafficking, are escorted to a courtroom in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The two French pilots convicted to 20 years in prison for cocaine trafficking fled house arrest and have returned to France, their lawyer says Tuesday, Oct.27, 2015.
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Australian company to open Guyana’s second major gold mine
GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Troy Resources Limited says it plans to open a large gold mine in western Guyana. The Australian company says production is scheduled to start in upcoming weeks at the mine in the Puruni region near neighboring Venezuela.
Mines Commission Director Rickford Vieira said Wednesday the mine could produce up to 100,000 troy ounces of gold a year. It would be the South American’s country second major gold mine. Toronto-based Guyana Goldfields opened a mine last
month that employs 500 workers and is expected to produce 3 million ounces of gold in about 17 years. Gold is Guyana’s main export and generated nearly $1 billion in revenue in 2013. But earnings have dropped recently because of weaker gold prices.
UN overwhelmingly condemns US embargo on Cuba; US votes ‘No’
Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, center, shakes hands with fellow U.N. delegates after a vote on the annual draft resolution calling for an end to the U.S.-led five-decade embargo against the Caribbean nation, Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015, in the United Nations General Assembly. The resolution condemning the U.S. embargo against Cuba has won overwhelming approval, with only the United States and Israel voting against it. Tuesday’s vote had the highest ever number of countries voting to condemn the embargo — 191. UNITED NATIONS — Castro. Rodriguez told a news conference The United States on Tuesday U.S. deputy ambassador he was “disappointed” with the voted against a U.N. resolution Ronald Godard told the assembly U.S. vote and said it was not condemning its embargo on Cuba, before the vote that the Cuban necessary to reply to Godard’s even though President Barack government is “mistaken” if it explanation of the U.S. vote. Obama has called on Congress to thinks the measure will improve “First and foremost lift the trade restrictions. efforts to normalize relations. what needs to be modified is the The vote was the first He said it was reality of the implementation of since the U.S. and Cuban leaders “unfortunate” that Cuba decided the blockade, not the text of the agreed to restore diplomatic to introduce a resolution whose resolution,” he said. ties last December, and the text “falls short of reflecting Rodriguez said the United U.S. had considered taking the the significant steps that have States must lift the embargo to unprecedented step of abstaining. been taken and the spirit of fully normalize relations. The General Assembly engagement President Obama “The lifting of the blockade voted 191-2 to condemn the has championed.” will be the essential element to commercial, economic and Nonetheless, he said the give some meaning to the progress financial embargo against Cuba, United States “will not be bound achieved over the past few months the highest number of votes ever by a history of mistrust” and in the relations between both for the measure. Only Israel joined remains committed to working countries and shall set the pace the United States in opposing the toward normalizing relations towards normalization,” he told resolution, and when the vote lit with Cuba, a process he said will the General Assembly. up on the screen many diplomats require “years of persistence and He said it is “a unilateral jumped to their feet in a standing dedication on both sides.” act of the United States and should ovation. Obama and Castro be lifted unilaterally, without General Assembly announced last Dec. 17 that asking anything in return.” resolutions are nonbinding and they were restoring diplomatic But many Republican unenforceable but the annual ties, which were broken in 1961 lawmakers, and some Democrats, exercise — now in its 24th year — after Fidel Castro took power oppose lifting the embargo at this has given Cuba a global stage to and installed a communist stage, and Rodriguez was critical demonstrate America’s isolation government. not only of the U.S. Congress on the embargo and its Cuba On July 20, diplomatic but of Obama’s failure to take policy. relations were restored and executive action to ease it. The Associated Press embassies of the two countries The Cuban foreign reported last month that the were reopened, but serious issues minister said the embargo United States considered remain, especially the U.S. call for isolates the United States and abstaining in hopes of pressuring human rights on the Caribbean goes against its national interest Congress to end the embargo. island and claims for expropriated and as long as it remains in effect Instead, the U.S. decided property. Cuba will continue to present its to vote against the resolution as The resolution welcomes annual resolution to the General it has since 1992, telling AP last the re-establishment of diplomatic Assembly. month and saying again Tuesday relations and recognizes “the Despite the U.S. vote, that the measure didn’t reflect expressed will” of Obama to work Rodriguez said, “Cuba will “the spirit of engagement” between for the elimination of the embargo. continue to do its best to improve Obama and Cuban President Raul Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno relations with the United States.”
Free Syrian Army fighters of the 101 Division stand behind sandbags near the town of Morek in the northern countryside of Hama, Syria October 14, 2015.
Syrian rebels say receive more weapons for Aleppo battle
Rebels battling the Syrian army and its allies near Aleppo said on Monday they had received new supplies of U.S.-made anti-tank missiles from states opposed to President Bashar al-Assad since the start of a major government offensive last week. The rebels from three Free Syrian Armyaffiliated groups contacted by Reuters said new supplies had arrived in response to the attack by the army, which is backed up by Russian air strikes and on the ground by Iranian fighters and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. The “Free Syrian Army” refers to a loose affiliation of groups fighting Assad that do not operate with a centralized command and control structure and have been widely eclipsed by jihadist groups such as the Nusra Front and Islamic State. The delivery of the U.S.-made TOW missiles to rebels in Aleppo and elsewhere in Syria appears to be an initial response to the new Russian-Iranian intervention. Foreign states supporting the rebels include Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar. But officials from one of the Aleppo-based rebel groups said the supplies were inadequate for the scale of the assault, one of several ground offensives underway with Russian air support. “A few (TOW missiles) will not do the trick. They need dozens,” said one official, declining to be named due to the political sensitivity of the military support program. A number of rebel groups vetted by states opposed to Assad have been supplied with weapons via Turkey, part of a program supported by the United States and which has in some cases included military training by the Central Intelligence Agency. “We received more supplies of ammunition in greater quantities than before, including mortar bombs, rocket launchers and anti-tank (missiles),” said Issa al-Turkmani, a commander in the FSAaffiliated Sultan Murad group fighting in the Aleppo area. “We have received more new TOWs in the last few days ... We are well-stocked after these deliveries.” TOW missiles are the most potent weapon in the rebels’ arsenal. FSA-affiliated groups have also been using TOWs against government forces to fend off another offensive in Hama province, southwest of Aleppo. Rebels there said last week they had plentiful supplies of the missiles. Since the start of the Russian air strikes, ground offensives by the Syrian army and its allies have mostly hit areas controlled by insurgent groups other than Islamic State in parts of western Syria that are crucial to Assad’s survival. The Aleppo offensive is targeting areas a few kilometers (miles) to the south of the city near the highway to Damascus. The army and its allies have captured several villages. Some 3,000 families have fled to other parts of Aleppo province, said Rami Abdulrahman, head of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which reports on the war using sources on the ground. Abdulrahman said at least 41 rebel fighters had been killed. One Aleppo-based rebel group, the Nour al Din al Zinki Brigades, said its military commander was among the dead. “The battles are underway in a big way on a number of fronts. The last three days were bad. Yesterday (the rebel) forces were able to form an operations room and to distribute zones of operation,” Hassan al-Haj Ali, head of the rebel Suqour al-Jabal group, told Reuters via the internet.
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Florida man to be executed for killing family
ORLANDO, Florida — A central Florida man convicted of stabbing to death his young daughter, his ex-wife and her mother and sister 30 years ago is scheduled to be executed months after his execution was postponed so attorneys could litigate whether a sedative used in Florida’s executions was constitutional. Jerry Correll is set to be executed on Thursday for the fatal stabbings of his former wife, Susan Correll; their 5-year-old daughter, Tuesday; Susan Correll’s mother, Mary Lou Hines; and Susan Correll’s sister, Marybeth Jones. It will be Florida’s first execution since last January. Some of the victims’ family members plan to attend the execution, said Whitney Ray, a spokesman for the Florida Attorney General. Correll , 59, had been scheduled for execution last February, but it was put on hold as his attorneys
in Florida, and attorneys at the U.S. Supreme Court in a separate case out of Oklahoma, argued over whether a sedative used in the execution protocol was effective in knocking inmates out. The sedative, midazolam, is one of three drugs used in executions in Florida and some other states. Several other states use sedatives such as pentobarbital and sodium thiopental, which have been in short supply due to restrictions placed on their use for the death penalty by manufacturers and the European Union, forcing some states to delay their scheduled executions. Midazolam had been used in executions where inmates gasped and made noises before dying. In Oklahoma, Clayon Lockett writhed on the gurney, moaned and clenched his teeth for several minutes before prison officials tried to halt the process. Lockett died after 43 minutes. But the U.S. Supreme Court ruled last June
AU report cites cannibalism, atrocities in South Sudan JUBA, South Sudan — Investigators discovered atrocities by all sides in South Sudan’s civil war, including testimony of forced cannibalism and the discovery of mass graves, according to a long-awaited report by the African Union. The report, released late Tuesday, also accused the forces loyal to President Salva Kiir, an ethnic Dinka, of recruiting an irregular tribal force before the outbreak of civil war in December 2013. It also disputes a claim by the government that there was a coup attempt at that time by former Vice President Riek Machar, an ethnic Nuer. The report alleged that government troops carried out organized killings of ethnic Nuer in Juba, the capital. When the violence began, Machar became a rebel leader. Tens of thousands of people have died and over 2 million more are displaced by warfare in South Sudan, according to the United Nations, which blamed the violence and the subsequent threat of famine on the young country’s feuding leaders. The African Union investigators, led by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, found that the conflict began Dec. 15, 2013, when a skirmish broke out between Dinka and Nuer soldiers in the presidential guard following political tension between Kiir and Machar, his onetime deputy who had been fired the previous July. Hundreds of Nuer men were rounded up and shot, and their mass graves were discovered, according to the report. Perpetrators — described as government forces or their allies — allegedly tortured their victims, sometimes forcing them to jump into bonfires or eat human flesh, witnesses told investigators. The killings were “an organized military operation that could not have been successful without concerted efforts from various actors in the military and government circles,” the report said. “Roadblocks or checkpoints were established all around Juba and house-to-house searches were undertaken by security forces. During this operation male Nuers were targeted, identified, killed on the spot or gathered in one place and killed.” The investigators found “evidence that some of the people who had been gathered were compelled to eat human flesh, while others were forced to drink human blood belonging to a victim who had been slaughtered and his blood collected on a plate,” it said.
in an Oklahoma case that the use of midazolam was constitutional. Florida Department of Corrections spokesman McKinley Lewis said in a statement that his agency has the proper equipment to carry out Correll’s execution, but he wouldn’t discuss anything about its supply of execution drugs. Correll’s attorneys have argued that his history of alcohol abuse and subsequent brain damage would render midazolam ineffective in knocking him unconscious. The sedative is followed by drugs that cause paralysis and stop the heart. After the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling, Correll’s case was sent back to a court in Orlando to determine whether the sedative would work on Correll. After listening to medical experts, a state judge ruled that Correll’s execution could take place. Correll’s attorneys also argued that
the time he had spent on death row amounted to cruel and unusual punishment. Earlier this month, the Florida Supreme Court rejected all those arguments, saying Correll’s attorney had failed to how he would suffer if midazolam was used. Correlll’s lawyers, Raheela Ahmed and Maria Perinetti, didn’t return phone calls, but in recent court filings they asked the Florida Supreme Court to postpone his execution until the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in a separate case on whether Florida gives judges too much power in deciding deathpenalty sentences. Arguments in that U.S. Supreme Court case were heard earlier this month. “While the harm to Correll would be irreparable if a stay is not granted, Florida, in comparison, will suffer little appreciable harm,” Correll’s attorneys said in a recent filing.
Official nullifies results of Zanzibar presidential poll government dictates policies, especially on economic issues. On Monday, Zanzibar’s opposition presidential candidate, Maalim Seif Hamad of the Civic United Front, claimed that he had won, days before the official results were to be released. Armed police were then deployed in Stone Town to break up crowds of opposition supporters who had gathered to celebrate. Helmeted police made some arrests. The Civic United Front has tried for years to win control of Zanzibar’s local government from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Revolutionary Party), narrowly losing the last election police Special Forces ride in the back of a vehicle with unidentified men they had in 2010 arrested, in the Darajani area of Stone Town, Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous island On mainland Tanzania, archipelago of Tanzania. Zanzibar’s election commission chief announced Wednesday the results for the general that the results of the island archipelago’s presidential election have been nullified and presidential elections are because of alleged irregularities, saying that the decision was taken because of several expected Thursday. It is the issues with the voting process, but did not say when another election would take place most tightly contested race since ZANZIBAR, Tanzania — peaceful democratic process.” Tanganyika became independent The political future of Zanzibar, a Zanzibar’s main from Britain in 1961. semiautonomous archipelago off opposition party, the Civic United In the race for the the coast of Tanzania, was thrown Front, expressed “outrage” at president of all Tanzania, the into doubt Wednesday when the election annulment. “This ruling party’s candidate is Works its election commission chief is a deliberate effort to thwart Minister John Magufuli. He nullified results of an election democracy in Zanzibar and cause is challenged by former Prime that the opposition claims it won. chaos in the country,” said the Minister Edward Lowassa, The results were scrapped party in a statement. By nullifying who used to be a high-ranking because of several issues, Jecha the election results the electoral member of the ruling party until Salim announced without saying commission “has plunged the he defected to the opposition after when new elections will take United Republic of Tanzania into failing to win the ruling party’s place. a crisis,” said the statement. presidential nomination. The U.S. Embassy said Tanzania was formed Lowassa told reporters in in a statement that it is “gravely when Zanzibar and its northern Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest alarmed” and called for a reversal island, Pemba, united with city, that he would challenge the of the annulment. mainland Tanganyika in April results being announced by the “This action halted an 1964, three months after the election commission, which he orderly and peaceful election, as islands’ black majority overthrew accused of falsifying some figures evaluated by observer missions the traditional Arab rulers. But to favor Magufuli. Results from from the U.S. Embassy, European for years, many have felt that some constituencies that have Union, Commonwealth, and Zanzibar, and its ancient capital, been announced by the election Southern Africa Development Stone Town, have been relegated commission do not tally with the Community, and a tabulation to second-class status. numbers of votes that were cast process nearing completion,” the Zanzibar is semi- in those places, he said. statement said. “We call for this autonomous and elects its local Damian Lubuva, the head announcement to be recalled, and government, including a president, of Tanzania’s election commission, urge all parties to maintain a but many on the islands complain denied the charges while issuing commitment to a transparent and that the mainland Tanzanian partial results Wednesday.
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Thousands Stranded on Borders of New European Migrant Route
Thousands of beleaguered migrants, including many women and children, have spent a night in rain and cold in the Balkans as the countries quarrel over how to handle the large influx of people. Many were stranded at Croatia’s border with Slovenia after Croatia sent a train there despite Slovenia’s refusal to take the people into the country. The train carrying about 1,800 people arrived in the early hours of the morning Monday. Hundreds of migrants were also left waiting in the mud on the border between Serbia and Croatia, after Croatian police put up gates to control their influx. Croatian police ordered the migrants off the train, but Slovenian police were deployed to the border and put up iron barriers to prevent a mass entry. For hours, the migrants sought ways to sneak into Slovenia on foot while Croatian police on the other side prevented them from turning back. Slovenian police said they would first register women and children from the train and let them into the country, while the rest remained stranded out in the open on a field amid driving rain. The border incident has caused a diplomatic spat between Croatia and Slovenia, with Slovenia accusing
Slovenia. Around 4,000 migrants were stranded Monday in a camp near the Croatian border with Serbia waiting for trains and buses to take them west, closer to their goal of reaching wealthier EU countries such as Germany and Sweden. On the Croatia-Serbia border, some of the migrants, who were stranded there overnight after Croatian police block their movements, were seen handing over their children to Croatian police across metal barriers. Fed up by the blockade, the migrants were walking in groups, Migrants and Croatian police officers transfer a child over barrier on a border line between taking routes through orchards and Serbia and Croatia corn fields away from a border passage Croatia of breaching an earlier an “unlimited number of migrants … that has served as a crossing point for agreement that only 2,500 people can which we can’t accept.” weeks. Families with children, men be transported into the country each She said “the Croatian side and women were seen walking in mud day. That figure appeared to have been is not responding” to the Slovenian and cold in search of new paths to cross reduced by the Slovenes to 1,500 a day demands to control the flow and over. because they said that’s how many is acting only as “a transporter” of The reduced flow of the neighboring Austria allow across its migrants. migrants on the so-called Balkan route border each day. Tension was building among could cause a large backlog of people in After Austria denied it is the thousands of people fleeing war Croatia, Serbia and Macedonia. restricting the flow, Slovenia’s interior and poverty in the Middle East, “We are in cold weather and minister said her country can handle Africa and Asia, and seeking to head the place is not good … Our message up to 2,500 migrants a day and lashed toward Western Europe. They have for the governments is to take into out at Croatia for transporting more been stranded in the cold weather in consideration our suffering,” said than the agreed figure to their border, the Balkans since Hungary closed its Farouk Al-Hatib from Syria as he saying it is “absolutely unacceptable.” border with Croatia early Saturday waited to cross into Croatia from Vesna Gyorkos Znidar said and the flow of people was redirected Serbia. that Croatia has started to send to the much slower route through
Mugabe warms to West as economy wobbles percent and Mugabe lost his first ever election. Deflation has taken root as consumer demand shrinks and the economy struggles with a shortage of dollars. Once bustling factories in Harare are now rusty shells, devastated by the 1999-2008 recession that cut GDP by about half. In addition, the mines are reeling from the fall in commodity prices and a drought has left 16 percent of the population needing food aid. Formal unemployment stands at more than 80 percent and power shortages are getting worse. “This is the worst since 2008. The economy looks very bleak and there is a lot of negative sentiment,” said Anthony Hawkins, economics professor at University of Zimbabwe’s Graduate School of Management who predicts a 1 percent contraction this year. The third quarter Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries’ latest Purchasing Managers Index stood at 43.1, only a shade above the 42 level that indicates a recession.
Mugabe has in the past been most critical of the United States and Britain, accusing them of seeking to topple him from power. That vitriol is now just a memory, while the European Union, looking beyond Mugabe’s rule, has gradually lifted sanctions. The bloc still maintains an arms embargo and what it calls a token travel ban and asset freeze on Mugabe and his wife. “We invite other countries with which we may have differences of whatever nature to eschew threats, pressures and punitive actions, in favor of reconciliation, friendship and dialogue,” Mugabe told the U.N. General Assembly last month. Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe greets other attendees before the sixth high-level meeting Harare has also opened talks of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the on fresh loans from the World Bank, Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region, during the United Nations General Assembly. IMF and African Development Bank Robert Mugabe’s anti-Western such as the International Monetary for the first time since 2009, when it rhetoric has been conspicuous by its Fund (IMF), which he likened in 2006 started defaulting on its foreign debt, absence of late, a sign the 91-year-old to “the devil” and “a political monster”. which now stands at $10.4 billion or 74 leader has mellowed or realized that “The economy is in such a dire percent of GDP. Zimbabwe may need financial help. state and Mugabe’s rapprochement In the past, Mugabe parceled A year ago, the veteran turned with Western donors is a realization out land seized from white commercial to “old friend” China, but behind the that he has very few options - even if farmers, raised wages for state official warmth Beijing made clear he may have personal misgivings and workers and printed money to finance the days of blank cheques were over, it goes against his political beliefs,” government spending to shore up his forcing Harare to make repayments said John Robertson, a Harare-based “DEVIL AND MONSTER” support. on $1 billion of loans made over the economist. Now he has little room to previous five years. The government is forecasting Against this backdrop, Mugabe maneuver after the adoption of the Since then, the southern growth of 1.5 percent this year but told parliament in late August he U.S. dollar in 2009. The government African nation’s economic plight has many analysts say Zimbabwe is tilting was looking to boost ties with foreign can no longer devalue the currency, worsened and Mugabe said he may towards recession - its first since 2008, creditors. print money to stimulate the economy need the support of foreign creditors when hyperinflation clocked 500 billion Finger jabbing and remonstrating, or influence interest rates.
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TECHNOLOGY
WalMart seeks to test drones for home delivery, pickup
Wal-Mart Stores Inc applied Monday to U.S. regulators for permission to test drones for home delivery, curbside pickup and checking warehouse inventories, a sign it plans to go head-to-head with Amazon in using drones to fill and deliver online orders. The world’s largest retailer by revenue has for several months been conducting indoor tests of small unmanned aircraft systems – the term regulators use for drones - and is now seeking for the first time to test the machines outdoors. It plans to use drones manufactured by China’s SZ DJI Technology Co Ltd. In addition to having drones take inventory of trailers outside its warehouses and perform other tasks aimed at making its distribution system more efficient, Wal-Mart is asking the Federal Aviation Administration for permission to research drone use in “deliveries to customers at Walmart facilities, as well as to consumer homes,” according to a copy of the application reviewed by Reuters. The move comes as Amazon.com Inc, Google and other companies test drones in the expectation that the FAA will soon establish rules for their widespread commercial use. FAA Deputy Administrator Michael Whitaker said in June that the agency expected to finalize regulations within the next 12 months, faster than previously planned. Commercial drone use is currently illegal, though companies can apply for exemptions. The FAA will review Wal-Mart’s petition to determine whether it is similar enough to earlier successful applications to be fast-tracked, or whether it would set a precedent for exemptions, requiring regulators to conduct a detailed risk analysis
A ‘Phantom 2’ drone by DJI company flies during the 4th Intergalactic Meeting of Phantom’s Pilots (MIPP) in an open secure area and seek public comment, agency spokesman Les Dorr said. The FAA normally aims to respond to such petitions in 120 days.Amazon has said it would be ready to begin delivering packages to customers via drones as soon as federal rules allow. Wal-Mart spokesman Dan Toporek said the company would move quickly to deploy drones depending on its tests and regulations. “Drones have a lot of potential to further connect our vast network of stores, distribution centers, fulfillment centers and transportation fleet,” he said. “There is a Walmart within five miles of 70 percent of the U.S. population, which creates some unique and interesting possibilities for serving customers with drones.” Finding ways to more efficiently warehouse, transport and deliver goods to customers has taken on new importance for WalMart, which this month projected a surprise decline in earnings next year as it copes with costs to increase wages, beat back price competition and boost online sales. In the FAA application, Wal-Mart said it wanted to test
drones for taking stock of trailers and other items in the parking lot of a warehouse using electronic tagging and other methods. A WalMart distribution center could have hundreds of trailers waiting in its yard, and a drone could potentially be used to quickly account for what each one is holding. The retailer also wants to test drones for its grocery pickup service, which it has recently expanded to 23 markets with plans to add another 20 markets next year. The test flights would confirm whether a drone could deliver a package to a pick-up point in the parking lot of a store, the application says. Wal-Mart also said it wants to test home delivery in small residential neighborhoods after obtaining permission from those living in the flight path. The test would see if a drone could be deployed from a truck “to safely deliver a package at a home and then return safely to the same,” the application says. To date the FAA has approved more than 2,100 exemptions allowing for commercial drone testing and use.
PayPal says makes $1 billion in small-business loans in first two years PayPal Holdings Inc the online payment processor, said on Tuesday its small-business lending program has processed $1 billion in loans in the first two years of its launch and more than doubled loan growth in that span. PayPal Working Capital is extending short-term loans totaling more than $100 million per month, or $3 million per day, to a mix of sellers on eBay Inc and standalone small- to mediumsized merchants, the company said at a payments conference in Las Vegas.
PayPal separated from eBay earlier this year, and Chief Executive Officer Dan Schulman has stated he is looking to use PayPal’s size to offer affordable financial services widely. The biggest challenge for a small business is getting access to credit and about 90 percent of businesses to which PayPal extends credit come back for a repeat loan, Steve Allocca, PayPal vice president and general manager, global credit, told Reuters. Allocca said the businesses
pay back loans as a percentage of daily sales. Online lending accounts for about 3 percent of the roughly $1 trillion of outstanding personal and small business loans in the United States. The default rate for small businesses with credit under a $1 million stood at 1 percent in 2014 but is seen rising to 1.6 percent in 2015 as new lenders, with varying ability to assess risk, increase lending, according to small business credit ratings provider PayNet.
Senate approves major cybersecurity bill
The U.S. Senate easily passed legislation on Tuesday aimed at bolstering the country’s cyber defenses, advancing the first serious attempt in Congress to combat computer hacks that have hit a growing number of businesses and government agencies in recent years. The bill, which would expand liability protections to companies that choose to voluntarily share cyber-threat data with the government, must be reconciled with two similar informationsharing measures that passed the House of Representatives earlier this year. It cleared the Senate by a vote of 74-21 with strong bipartisan support. The White House announced support last week for the Senate bill, although it stated a desire for some revisions before it lands on President Barack Obama’s desk. The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act, or CISA, is a proposal that languished in the Senate for several years partly because of privacy groups’ concerns it would shuttle more personal information into the hands of the National Security Agency and other government spies. But business interests, including the Chamber of Commerce, have argued an information-sharing law is necessary to allow the private sector to cooperate more closely with the government on detecting and minimizing cyber threats without fear of lawsuits. A round of amendments intended to strengthen some of the bill’s privacy protections failed on Tuesday as the bill’s bipartisan sponsors warned last-minute changes could upset the balanced language that was the culmination of years of negotiations. Skeptics of CISA have said it would do little to prevent malicious breaches like the kind that crippled Sony Pictures last year, which the Obama administration publicly blamed on North Korea, or recent thefts of data from companies like Target, Home Depot or Anthem Insurance. Even some of the bill’s supporters have conceded the bill is a small first step to shore up U.S. cyber defenses, which are constantly under assault by hacking groups and foreign nation-states like China and Russia, according to government officials. Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid said on Tuesday that CISA was “far too weak.” The bill’s passage through the Senate was a defeat for digital privacy activists who celebrated the passage in June of a law effectively ending the NSA’s bulk collection of U.S. call metadata. The curtailment of that program, which had been exposed in 2013 by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, represented the first significant restriction of the U.S. government’s intelligencegathering capabilities since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
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Walgreens says will buy smaller drugstore rival Rite-Aid Drugstore chain Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc said on Tuesday it would acquire smaller peer Rite Aid Corp for $9.4 billion to widen its footprint in the United States and negotiate for lower drug costs. The $9-a-share cash deal, worth $17.2 billion including acquired debt, will increase the footprint of Walgreens, the largest U.S. drugstore chain, by half. It will also improve its ability to negotiate for low drug prices and fend off rivals from Wal-Mart Stores Inc to online pharmacies. The price represents a 48 percent premium to where Rite-Aid shares closed on Monday, the day before the agreement was signed, the companies said in a joint release. A Walgreens-Rite Aid deal would need approval from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, which studies retail mergers to ensure they comply with antitrust law. Shares of Rite Aid, which had a market value of $6.36 billion at Monday’s close, rose as much as 44 percent on Tuesday after the Wall Street Journal first reported the deal talks. Walgreens stock rose as much as 7 percent. Walgreens said it expects
the transaction to close in the second half of 2016 and to boost its earnings per share in the first full year after its completion. Moreover, it sees cost savings of more than $1 billion from buying Rite-Aid, which will initially operate under its existing brand name. The healthcare sector has been consolidating in recent years as providers look to beef up and bargain for lower prices from drugmakers. In part, that is because President Barack Obama’s national healthcare reform law seeks to limit spending by cutting payments in government insurance programs. Large companies that provide health benefits have also tightened their spending.
sales. CVS, whose shares rose 1.8 percent on Tuesday, in August closed its $10.1 billion acquisition of pharmacy services provider Omnicare, which will expand its presence in the senior care market. Antitrust lawyer David Balto, a former FTC official, earlier on Tuesday said the Walgreens-Rite-Aid deal would receive careful scrutiny by U.S. regulators and then probably be approved. “Drugstore services have evolved substantially in the past several years,” he said, “and the market is becoming robustly competitive, with substantial competition from supermarkets and mass merchants.” Others said that given an ‘ROBUSTLY COMPETITIVE’ extended FTC review of office supplies retailer Staples Inc’s (SPLS.O) planned Hospitals, drug distributors, takeover of Office Depot Inc , the health insurers and companies that Walgreens-Rite Aid deal would also be manage pharmacy benefits all say that closely scrutinized. they need to be bigger to compete in Many analysts expect some this new landscape. divestitures to be required in states Analysts said the deal would where the combined company would increase Walgreens’ presence in the have a particularly strong position, Pacific Northwest and make it better including parts of the northeast. In able to take on CVS Health Corp, the New York, for instance, the two have nation’s largest drug chain in terms of more than 25 percent of the market by
Visa threatens to end FIFA backing if reforms unsatisfactory Major sponsor Visa has told FIFA that it could cut ties with the scandal-tarnished governing body if the credit card company is not satisfied with the reforms being implemented. Visa vice chair Ellen Richey disclosed details of the renewed warning to FIFA while answering questions on Wednesday at a British parliamentary hearing into the soccer corruption crisis. Richey appeared alongside executives from McDonald’s, Coca-Cola and Budweiser brewer AnheuserBusch, who stopped short of issuing the same threat over the futures of their sponsorships. Visa has reservations about the large number of people with existing ties to FIFA who are formulating governance changes — which could include term limits for executives and stripping presidents of some of their financial decision making. The only independent member of FIFA’s reform committee is chairman Francois Carrard, with the other panel members appointed by the global soccer confederations. Discussing the panel’s lack of independence, Richey said Visa has informed FIFA that “if we are not satisfied in that regard we will reassess our sponsorship.” Visa has sponsored FIFA since 2007 and has a contract through 2022. The House of Commons culture, media and sport committee heard concerns from legislators about how sponsors’ cash was being used by FIFA, given that alleged financial mismanagement is at the heart of the criminal investigations launched by American and Swiss authorities.
In this Friday, May 29, 2015 file photo, FIFA president Sepp Blatter after his election as President, left, is greeted by UEFA President Michel Plantini, Right at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland. “We have asked (FIFA) those (expenditure) questions and we will continue to,” said Peter Franklin, a director at Coca-Cola, a FIFA sponsor for more than 40 years. “We pay our fee according to our contractual obligations and we have asked for confirmation the money was being spent appropriately,” Franklin added. Visa’s Richey added that “the level of transparency for the accounts within FIFA was quite inadequate.” Earlier in the hearing, English Football Association highlighted the role of FIFA’s external auditor KPMG. “Where has KPMG been for all these years? Quite big sums of money do not appear to have been accounted for,” Dyke said. The criminal probe involving Sepp Blatter, who is suspended from his role as FIFA president, relates to a previouslysecret 2011 payment of 2 million Swiss francs (around $2 million)
to UEFA President Michel Platini. Platini claimed it was salary owing to him from his job as a FIFA adviser between 1998 and 2002, but there was no written contract. “The first thing I would have done is sent in forensic accountants to go through the last 10 years,” Dyke said. “Where has the money come from and gone?” Dyke said the FA is to consult with lawyers over Blatter’s suggestion in an interview with Russian state news agency TASS that there was an agreement in place for the 2018 World Cup to be awarded to Russia before the vote took place in 2010. England spent more than $30 million on its failed bid for the tournament. “If (Blatter) is saying ‘We wanted Russia’ and it looks like he wanted that fixed before the vote, it’s suggesting that it was all fixed anyway,” Dyke said. “It would be very nice to get taxpayers’ money back.”
store count, Cowen analysts said. Walgreens has 13,200 stores, some 60 percent of which are in the United States, and generated $76.4 billion in sales in the year ended on Aug. 31, 2014. Rite Aid, with 4,570 U.S. stores, has annual sales of about $27 billion. CVS had sales of $139.4 billion last year. But it has 7,870 stores, fewer than Walgreens. While Walgreens focuses more on its retail drugstore business, CVS, through its 2007 acquisition of CareMark, is also the second largest pharmacy-benefit manager in the U.S. Pharmacy benefit managers are paid by health plans to ensure drugstores only dispense medicines on the plan’s list of pre-authorized drugs - a middleman role designed to keep drug costs down. “This would be a merger that’s really about increasing scale” and getting cost savings, said Tigress Financial Partners Research Director Philip Van Deusen. Increased scale would help the combined company better withstand pricing pressure from major retailers, including Internet players like Amazon. com Inc that sell many of the same products, Deusen said.
Nintendo reports quarterly profit as sales improve Nintendo Co. posted a 3.17 billion yen ($26.3 million) profit for the fiscal second quarter, buoyed by sales growth of portable video game machines and software titles. The Japanese maker of Super Mario and Pokemon video games, said on Wednesday that July-September sales rose 18 percent to 113.96 billion yen ($946.5 million), allowing it to stay in the black for a second quarter in a row. The company reported 8.97 billion yen ($74.6 million) operating profit for the fiscal first half compared with a loss of 215 million yen a year earlier. It said sales of Nintendo 3DS game machines including two newer models launched during the previous fiscal year reached 2.28 million units in the first half. Sales were also buoyed by software titles such as “Animal Crossing,” which sold more than 2 million units, the company said. A software title featuring all-time favorite Super Mario for the Wii U home console also got off to a good start, it said. The solid result came after the company lost its legendary president Satoru Iwata, who died in July, raising questions about Nintendo’s future direction. After two months without a replacement, the company in September picked a long-serving executive Tatsumi Kimishima as its new president. Nintendo left its annual profit forecast unchanged at 35 billion yen ($290 million). The company returned to profit in the fiscal year ended March 2015, after several years of losses.
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Oil up 5 percent; U.S. crude build fails to extend three-day rout
Oil futures were up about 5 percent on Wednesday after the U.S. reported a crude inventory build that reversed bearish market expectations, extending gains from an earlier rally triggered by what was said to be a big algorithmic trade. The price spike snapped three straight days of losses, stalling oil bears’ expectations for a longer and deeper price rout after two-month lows hit in the previous session on worries about high supplies and weak demand. Bets that the Federal Reserve will hold off for now on a U.S. rate hike weighed on the dollar, fueling price gains across commodities and adding to the oil rally.[USD/] Brent LCOc1 was up $2.33 to $49.14 a barrel by 1:09 p.m. EDT (1709 GMT), after hitting a session high at $49.23. The discount in Brent’s front-month contract versus crude for delivery in a year narrowed to below $6 a barrel as the prompt contract rallied a lot more than forward months. The discount was as large as $9 on Tuesday. U.S. crude CLc1 rose $2.70 to $45.90
A pump jack operates at a well site leased by Devon Energy Production Company near Guthrie, Oklahoma September 15, 2015. a barrel. If held through settlement, the gain of more than 5 percent would be the largest in nearly two weeks. Prices surged within 30 minutes of the start of the official session in New York, jumping more than $1 with many traders citing a big algorithmic trade for the hike.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) added to the rally when it reported that crude stockpiles rose 3.4 million barrels last week, matching analysts forecasts in a Reuters poll. But the build was less than the 4.1 million-barrel build posted on Tuesday by industry group the American Petroleum Institute.
Twitter’s results show its turnaround Moment still far off Twitter Inc may be counting on Moments to drive growth, but the moment for celebrating a turnaround still looks far off. Anyone hoping that Chief Executive Jack Dorsey’s plans to boost growth would have had a big impact on thirdquarter results would have been disappointed. Twitter reported both anemic user growth for the three months to Sept. 30 and offered up a tepid revenue forecast for the current quarter on Tuesday. Twitter’s shares, already down 13 percent this year, were down 11 percent in early trading on Wednesday. Some investors clearly expected more from Dorsey, the company’s co-founder who took the CEO role earlier this month after serving on an interim basis for nearly four months. “While we believe many of the growth initiatives highlighted by ‘new’ CEO Jack Dorsey are promising, it remains less clear whether these will translate into more active user growth and engagement,” Baird Equity Research analysts wrote. Twitter’s fourth-quarter
revenue forecast of $695 million$710 million was well below the average analyst estimate of $739.7 million. In a few short months under Dorsey, Twitter introduced the ‘Moments’ feature, added polls to tweets, laid off about 8 percent of its workforce and rolled out a “buy” button. Twitter executives spent a lot of time touting Moments on a post-earnings call. However, analysts remain mixed on the potential of the feature, which organizes what Twitter employees consider to be the day’s best tweets about key events. “We have been singularly unimpressed with Moments, and view the service as no different or more interesting than a typical home page on any competing news site,” Wedbush analysts said. User growth will depend on the execution of those projects and Dorsey’s ability to find time to lead those efforts, analysts said. Apart from Twitter, Dorsey is also running mobile payments company Square Inc, which is prepping for an
initial public offering, and might require more of his time. “We don’t believe a nonfulltime CEO is an ideal solution for Twitter today,” RBC Capital Markets analysts said in a note. Of 44 brokerages covering Twitter, at least 17 cut their price targets, although none lowered their ratings. And there are still 18 “buy” or higher ratings on the stock, along with 24 “holds” and only two “sell” ratings, according to Thomson Reuters data. The median price target is $34. Twitter’s shares were trading at $27.88 just after the opening. Some analysts also believe that Twitter’s fourth-quarter guidance was conservative, and noted potential for the company to execute better in 2016 as its nascent products take hold. And Dorsey may yet come through, some think. “Twitter faces declining expectations and easing comps as it approaches 2016, which should be a perfect backdrop for a product-focused founder to look like a savior,” Stifel, which raised its rating on the stock, said in a note.
[EIA/S] [API/S] “The market was looking for more bearish information and got a neutral report,” Scott Shelton, energy broker and commodities specialist with ICAP in Durham, North Carolina. The EIA also cited an inventory drop of 785,000 barrels at the Cushing, Oklahoma, delivery hub for U.S. crude futures. Stockpiles of gasoline and distillates, which include diesel, fell more than expected and front-month U.S. gasoline RBc1 and ultra-low sulfur diesel HOc1 futures also gained 5 percent ahead of contract expirations on Friday. But some remained steadfast that prices would turn lower eventually, saying whatever reported by the EIA was only mildly bullish. “I think any rallies should be sold into since we expect to continue seeing builds in the weeks to come,” said Tariq Zahir, trader in crude oil spreads at Tyche Capital Advisors in Laurel Hollow, New York.
Apple investors focus on iPhone sales for the holiday quarter Apple Inc painted a rosy picture for its new iPhones as it reported quarterly results on Tuesday, but investors were more focused on the company’s next test: topping last year’s record holiday sales. Shares of the world’s most profitable company initially rose 3 percent in extended trade after Apple beat Wall Street’s sales and profit forecasts, but the gains largely evaporated later. In the world’s most important market for smartphones, Apple’s sales in Greater China in its fourth fiscal quarter nearly doubled from a year ago to $12.52 billion, accounting for nearly a quarter of its total revenue. “We continue to have wonderful success there,” Apple’s chief financial officer, Luca Maestri, told Reuters, adding that Apple now has 25 stores in China and is opening a new one roughly every month. But China sales dipped from the fiscal third quarter, when Apple notched $13.2 billion in revenue there. The sequential decline is important as many analysts believe China is poised to replace the United States as Apple’s biggest market. Analyst Ben Bajarin of Creative Strategies said as the Chinese market matures, it is beginning to show spikes around the holidays and slumps before the release of a new phone, as in the U.S. market. “The seasonality in China is really a new wrinkle,” he said. Apple, the world’s largest company by market value, said it sold about 48.05 million iPhones worldwide in its fiscal fourth quarter ended Sept. 26, slightly below analysts’ average forecast of 48.72 million, according to a poll by Fortune magazine.
Facebook CEO defends effort to expand Internet access
NEW DELHI (AP) — Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg defended his company’s contentious efforts to expand Internet access in the developing world during his second visit to India this year. The company’s free platform offering a basic level of Internet access via Android devices has been introduced to 24 countries and has amassed about 15 million users, mostly in Africa and Asia, Zuckerberg said at a meeting Wednesday with students. He said it could help alleviate poverty in India by providing information to the poor and contributing to development of the economy. The platform known as Free Basics was
developed in conjunction with other technology companies and has brought a mixed response from governments and analysts. Many criticize it for lacking transparency in how information is selected for the site and favoring Facebook’s own services over those of competitors. Zuckerberg rejected the criticism as a luxury of those who can afford access to the Internet. He said limiting content on the Free Basics platform was necessary, because “you cannot provide the whole Internet for free.” It was initially known as Internet.org. There are about 300 million people using
the Internet in India, including 130 million using Facebook, making India the company’s secondlargest user base behind the United States. But there are still about 1 billion Indians with no Internet access. “We deeply care about servicing the Indian community and giving them the best tools. That’s why I want to be here,” said Zuckerberg. Last month, Zuckerberg hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a Silicon Valley town hall meeting, at which Modi also touted the power of social media in economic development by helping people to share knowledge and ideas.
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Footsteps 4 Good rolls into Provo
and adults along the Leeward Highway under the watchful eyes of Members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. The Footsteps 4Good Governor Beckingham, who was charity event, spearheaded by Jill joined by Commissioner of Police Beckingham, wife of His Excellency James Smith on the journey, took Governor Peter Beckingham, rolled some time to talk to The SUN. into Providenciales on Friday, October “The Footsteps 4 good, is 24. raising money for local charities, local Mrs. Beckingham initiated schools. All the schools have taken the event to raise funds for schools part. In Grand Turk there were 600 and charities. Governor Beckingham kids, in South Caicos, all the pupils joined his wife on the Providenciales from the primary and secondary leg of the charitable and fitness event, schools took part. The NGOs have leading a number of school children signed up to it, and there has been By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor
Jill Beckingham, wife of His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham (right), who conceptualize the Footsteps 4 Good charity walk, is all smiles as she walks with students
a lot of sponsorship,” Governor Beckingham said. The said his wife aims to complete 100 kilometers across all the inhabited islands as she raise funds for well-needed charities. “The total walk that my wife is doing in total is a 100 kilometers roughly or about 70 miles, across all the inhabited islands,” he said. Governor Beckingham said that Footsteps for Good has been exciting and rewarding so far, telling The SUN that he took part in majority of the walks. “It has been pretty good. I
haven’t done it all because I got to work as well. But I did the Middle Caicos from North Caicos, which was 10 kilometers. I did South Caicos, I promised I would go there this year, which was 10K, and it had been great. Among others who took part in the event were Clement Howell Principal Kadean Cunningham, Principal for the Enid Capron Primary School, Sophia Hamilton, former principal for Enid Capron Rachel Taylor and a number of other teachers from both primary and high schools.
Beckingham (right) and Commissioner of Police James Smith are captured along the route
Diabetes Association to benefit for Wrightfully Fit Charity Run/Walk The Turks & Caicos Islands Diabetic Association has been selected as this year’s recipient from the funds raised at the Wrightfully Fit Fitness Center, 7th Annual 5K and 10K Charity Run/ Walk. The Wrightfully Fit 5K and 10K Charity Run/ Walk 2015 will be held on Saturday November 14, at 6:30 pm, at the Salt Mills Plaza parking lot. Proprietor for Wrightfully Fit Fitness Center, John Wright, said that his entity chose the Diabetic Association as its’ beneficiary in order to heighten public awareness and to further educate those inflicted with the ailment and to assist them to make healthy lifestyle choices. “Our goal is to help improve
their lives and educate them and their families to make healthier lifestyle choices. This event will help bring awareness to this disease that is rapidly becoming one of the country’s fastest growing health conditions with more than 3,000 persons diagnosed and growing,” Wright said. According to www.diabetes. co.uk, each year, World Diabetes Day, which is coordinated by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and commemorated on November 14, carries a particular theme and between 2009 and 2013 the theme has been ‘Education and Prevention’. The theme of World Diabetes Day, from 2014 to 2016 will be “Healthy Living and Diabetes”, and
this year, there’s a focus on starting each day right by having a healthy breakfast. A healthy breakfast, according to the organisation, should help blood sugar levels from getting too high and should keep one full through the morning. It says whilst cereal and toast may be cheap, these options typically raise blood sugar levels rapidly and may leave one hungry again before lunch. World Diabetes Day was jointly introduced by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). The global diabetes awareness campaign was introduced amidst concern over an escalating diabetes epidemic.
November 14th is a significant date in the diabetes calendar because it marks the birthday of Frederick Banting, the man who co-discovered insulin. Banting discovered insulin in 1922, alongside Charles Best. World Diabetes Day is internationally recognised and is now an official United Nations Day. The Turks & Caicos Islands Diabetic Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 2007 to represent persons with diabetes and provide a national support network. Persons desirous of taking part in the Wrightfully Fitness Center 5K/10K Race/Walk John Wright at 649941-3311 or email or JWrightfullyfit@ yahoo.com.
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Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks and Caicos Islands | Tel:649 339 5879 | Fax: 649 941 3281