DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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VOLUME 11 - NO. 47
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MICHAEL MISICK EXTRADITION CHALLENGED by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
T
he official start of the muchvaunted corruption case against former Turks and Caicos Islands Cabinet ministers and other highprofile Belongers was delayed last week as the prosecutor and lead defence lawyer for former Premier Michael Misick battled over the legality of his extradition from Brazil in 2014 and the number of charges he should now face. Tuesday December 8th was set aside to hear a “specialty argument” which was filed and advanced by prominent Barbadian Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne, after which there would have been a reply by veteran British Queen’s Counsel, Andrew Mitchell, followed by a ruling by Mr. Justice Paul Harrison on the application, the hearing of another abuse of process argument on behalf of Misick, and then the opening statement by Mitchell. However, up to Press time Friday, December 11th, the two lawyers were still locked in arguments. A major plank of Thorne’s argument was that the request for Misick’s extradition from Brazil referred to one offence, which was conspiracy to receive bribes, but on return to the Turks and Caicos Islands he was charged with nine offences and they have now be reduced to six. He told the court that Misick has been deprived of the protection of law by the decision of the prosecution to charge him with multiple offences, although his extradition was secured on the statement of once offence only. The specialty rule is a rule of extradition that is intended to ensure that a person extradited is not dealt with in the requesting state (in this case, the Turks and Caicos Islands) for any offence other
Marjorie Basden High School of South Caicos wins Inter-High School Debate Competition 2015 Photo by Todeline Defralien
Competing head to head with the different high schools in the Turks and Caicos, Marjorie Basden High School of South Caicos were victories winning the Inter-High School Debate 2015 at the 2nd Annual Anti-Corruption Open Day Ceremony in Providenciales on Wednesday December 9th, 2015 at The Palms. Teacher and students pose for a picture with the floating trophy with Director of the Integrity Commission Mr. Eugene Otuonye. than that for which he was extradited. must therefore state whether the indictment now before the Court. Thorne noted that Misick, defendant conspired to commit one act, He further submitted that the was extradited upon the basis of a or several acts, adding that each act onus is on the Crown to state which single offence which, according to in respect of which Misick allegedly offence on the indictment is that stated the particulars of the charge, was conspired would constitute a separate in the extradition documents and that committed between 2003 and 2009 offence. the prosecution can add other offences He said that as a practical The Queen’s Counsel argued only if they arise out of the same set of matter, it is difficult to conceive of the that having disclosed in the extradition circumstances. offence of conspiracy to receive bribes documents that the defendant Thorne told the court it is having been committed over this period committed a single offence, specially impossible for the prosecution to as a single offence. described as conspiracy to receive demonstrate that the myriad offences Noting that a conspiracy is an bribes, it must reasonably be inferred now before the Court arose out of the agreement, Thorne said the prosecution that the single offence appears on the same set of circumstances.
Continued on Page 2
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
MICHAEL MISICK EXTRADITION CHALLENGED
Continued from page - 1
He said that in charging Michael Misick, the prosecution has contributed to a breach of that contractual obligation which binds the requesting country to Brazil and that the multiple charges constitute a show of bad faith and undermine the entire process of extradition that was conducted according to international and domestic law. The defence lawyer added that in preferring these multiple charges against the defendant, Michael Misick, the prosecution has exposed
the judicial process of Brazil to abuse in the aftermath of relinquishing its jurisdiction over the defendant. Moreover, he said that in laying multiple charges, the prosecution has also defeated the double criminality rule that requires that the extradited offence is culpable in both countries and that there ought to be no political colour to the indictment. Thorne also stressed that the offences for which Misick is charged were full of political characteristics and this is clearly prohibited within
the process of extradition, as the law clearly prohibits the surrender of defendants into circumstances of political oppression or persecution. Andrew Mitchell, QC, in response, said that the only way that the UK receives the extradition of fugitives from countries outside the European Union is by the Secretary of State making a special request. “You don’t need a treaty to achieve the extradition of someone from another country if the other country is prepared to send that
person back. In the UK, treaties are not part of domestic law, as is the case in the United States of America. To get a person back from a country, the Governor and the AG would apply for the surrender of that individual and it is up to that country to agree to return the person,” Mitchell said. Mitchell is instructed by Special Prosecutor Helen Garlick and assisted by other British lawyers Quinn Hawkins of 2 Hare Court, Carolina Cabral of 23 Essex Street and Kate Duncan of 9-12 Bell Yard.
Charges against former Cabinet Minister are political, says defence lawyer
The charges which the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) brought against former Turks and Caicos Islands Premier and some of his former Cabinet ministers are “political in nature”. This was argued by Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne, the lead attorney for Misick, who said the charges against his client should be dropped because the law clearly prohibits the surrender of defendants into circumstances of political oppression or persecution. “The allegations against Mr. Misick are aligned to his functions while in office as Premier,” Thorne said. “In other words, what these offences are saying to this court is that Mr. Misick committed these acts in the course of his functions as premier and that such impropriety amounts to criminality. That allegation of impropriety when joined with the performance of his official function does not establish a distance between Mr. Misick’s politics and the allegations of impropriety. How does one, in this country or in any
other country, against a past decide when government, it a politician becomes easy is performing to transfigure his official performance in functions has office as crime. trespassed on What is before the grounds Your Lordship of criminality. has more to do Many official with politics functions are than the law,” subject to Thorne told Mr. criticism, but Justice Paul the point is Harrison. when does Ralph THorne QC Thorne noted it become a that in some of crime? How many prime ministers or the charges, the wording states “Mike premiers within the commonwealth Misick conspired with other persons... could now be charged in a criminal while they were serving as ministers court?” of the Crown of the Turks and Caicos Thorne said that as the Islands...so that they acted in a way evidence is presented to the court it that is contrary to the ordinary rules will be realised that it has more to do on honesty and integrity expected of with the management of the public Ministers of the Crown”. affairs of this country, and less to He stressed that every count do with “stealing from one’s fellow repeats the same words and he citizens” as the prosecution is alleging. argued that such wording is a value “If one is so motivated judgment that the prosecution is not
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is in a position to make. “When a Prosecution says that a minister has disobeyed and acted in a manner contrary to the rule of honesty and integrity, that is a judgment that he is exercising as to the quality of his performance and I say that this is a political judgment. So the prosecution is establishing a standard and wherever that standard is located, it is essentially saying that Mr. Misick fell below that standard, and as to whether he rose above the standard, met the standard, head on or fell below it, that is a political judgment. Who determines that? Who determines standards in political office? When they Prosecution were crafting these charges they were making political value judgments,” Thorne added. He said a series of political events, including the Sir Robin Auld Commission of Inquiry, led to the defendants being charged, so one cannot say that the charges are not political.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
High Court judge criticises design of corruption trials courtroom
The high court judge presiding over the high-profile corruption cases in the Turks and Caicos Islands has criticised the design of the courtroom which was specially constructed for the trials. Mr. Justice Paul Harrison, a former President of the Jamaica Court of Appeal, who was specially chosen to hear the trial, expressed his concern on Tuesday at the start of a specialty argument that was brought by former Premier Michael Misick, stemming from his extradition from Brazil to the Turks and Caicos Islands. “I still believe that the court was badly constructed,” Mr. Justice Harrison said, adding that the architects of the new courtroom were a “law unto themselves” and apparently never had proper consultation with Mr. Justice Paul Harrison him when they designed the court. Previously, Court of Appeal judges the three of them are sitting, they also expressed their disappointment have to share a single microphone. with the design of the court. When The courtroom, which is
housed in the former Myrtle Rigby Polyclinic on Leeward Highway, Providenciales, was modified at a cost of close to $1million (£745,000) through financial support from the British Government. The microphones for lawyers are of a very poor quality and are too short for some of the lawyers and sometimes they don’t properly transmit the attorneys’ voices. The air condition unit in the court is extremely loud and frequently drowns the voices of lawyers. The stenographers who were hired by the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) have indicated that they’ve had difficulty hearing some lawyers because of the inadequate sound quality. In addition, every few minutes an annoying ring tone dials into the court’s audio system, sometimes accompanied by a female voice speaking in a foreign language.
On Thursday, December 10th, Judge Harrison had to adjourn court for a few minutes because the recording system failed. There was apparently no consideration given to a place for jurors to sit and in the past, the defendants in the corruption trial had to sit in a cramped area near and to the right of the judge. It was only after an application was made by defence lawyers on Tuesday that they were allowed to sit next to their lawyers in the sprawling courtroom which is outfitted with several integrated computer monitors, remote controlled cameras and huge flat-screen televisions. There was no table for the media until a request was made by The SUN on Tuesday December 8th. The baseboards in the courtroom are termite-infested and are cracking and garbage is often seen piled up outside the court.
Defence lawyers in corruption trial object to judge having witness statements in his iPad Lawyers in the Turks and Caicos Islands corruption case have “strongly objected” to witness statements being placed on them iPad of presiding judge Mr. Justice Paul Harrison. The lawyers, led by Mr. Earl Witter, a renowned public defender from Jamaica, who is the lawyer for former Deputy Premier Floyd Hall, argued that since the trial is being tried without a jury and judge Harrison is now judge of the law and judge of the facts, his mind may be “contaminated” by having access to the witness statements before hand. “In an ordinary trial by jury, the tribunal of fact does not have
sight of the depositions and witness statements,” Witter said. “In this case, Your Lordship is also the jury man and therefore should only have access to the evidence that is used, so it is my submission that those statements should be deleted from Your Lordship’s iPad.” However, Judge Harrison said that because the two functions of judge and jury are now combined into one entity, a trial; judge, the responsibility of the trial judge having access to the statements cannot be removed. “When the Crown opens its case and highlights what it intends to do, the trial judge hears what it intends to prove and cannot prove
based on the deposition or statements,” Judge Harrison stated. “The court doesn’t approach this matter sight on scene. The functions of the judge and jury are now compressed into one entity, that is the trial judge doing the trial without a jury, so it means that you could not properly deprive him of the responsibility of seeing those statements and then making a decision on them when the opening is being done and disabuse his mind as to what has not been proven. I don’t think that’s a difficulty that I have.” The Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) has supplied the judge, the defendants and their lawyers with iPads that have been
specially reconfigured and which contain several hundreds of pages of evidence. On Monday, December 7th, and for a part of the following day, there was a in-court training session on the use of the iPads, which had to be reconfigured overnight Monday to make them more user friendly. Questions and concerns were also raised by defence lawyers about the integrity and security of the iPads. A computer expert from London gave evidence that the devices are secure and that any notes that are made on them will not be accessible by anyone other than the person who has a password for that particular iPad.
Three public officials being investigated by Integrity Commission has been given to them to file. He said their matters will also be referred to Three public officials in the Director of Public Prosecutions. the Turks and Caicos Islands are He noted that since the first under investigation by the Integrity filing of Declaration in 2010, the Commission. Commission has consistently recorded This was revealed by Eugene over 90% compliance rate which, by Otuonye, QC, Director of the Integrity international and regional standards, Commission, who did not disclose the is unprecedented. names of the public servants while According to Mr. Otuonye, the he was addressing the Commission’s number of persons in public life who anti-corruption day ceremony at The are subject to filing Declaration rose Palms hotel on December 9th, 2015. from 167 in 2010 to 343 in the 2012 “A formal inquiry is when you 2014 filing circle. By the end of last file your declaration and there is a year 298 Certificates of Compliance need to shed more light on it. After we, or 87% of Declarations filed have the executive, have tried to sort it out been issued to Declarants. 151 more with you and we can’t, we then step Certificates have been issued this year, aside and turn it over to the (Integrity) out of a total of 316 persons who filed commissioners. They (commissioners) in 2012-2014 filing cycle as well as in are communicating with them (public 2015. servants) as we speak, in respect of “The number of those who their findings,” Otuonye said. have not filed is made of those from The Director said the names whom the Commission is expecting of the few who have failed to file or further information; those who have furnish further information required not formally received their Instrument by the Commission, are still being of Appointment; those under further compiled and will, among other inquiries, a few that have left things, be published in the Gazette jurisdiction and are yet to be reached in due course, once the Commission and those that have since passed,” he is satisfied that sufficient opportunity added. By Todeline Defralien
Otuonye said Members of the House of Assembly have continued to be 100% compliant in the filing of their Statement of Registrable Interests, adding that their latest submissions covered the period ending 31 December 2014. By March next year, they will be expected to file for the period ending 31 December 2015. Again, their 100% compliance rate is a record worthy of high commendation. He reported that the Commission continues to receive formal, anonymous and public complaints of alleged acts of corruption, breach of the Code of Conduct or the Political Activities Ordinance. More than 20 complaints have been received this year. “Investigations have been conducted and concluded in relation to some of these complaints, leading to no further action as complaints lacked merit (not because they are malicious and false). Some investigations are however still ongoing but none has led to any arrests. However, of the two corruption matters that were in Court this year, the accused in one, pleaded guilty to 8 counts of corruption offences and was sentenced; the other matter
Eugene Otuonye, QC, Director of the Integrity Commission was discontinued by the Director of Public Prosecution,” he added. He said the Commission held one Code of Conduct inquiry this year, and exonerated the public official concerned.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
PDM concerned about police transfers from Grand Turk
“The PDM is concerned over the recent transfer of Officers from Grand Turk,” says the Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Leader of the Opposition. “On hearing the news of the number of Officers transferred, we wrote a letter to the Head of Police asking for a confirmation of the number among other information,” Hon Cartwright Robinson said.
“While we understand that of robberies and burglaries, the transfers are a normal process, the increase number of tourists on shore needs in Providenciales, the desire and other pressing issues that are of officers for greater exposure brewing.” and the needs of the Force to make She added: “The Police has available further training. However responded and informed us this without an indepth knowledge, it decision was taken after extensive gives the perception that there is and careful consideration to our not a proper balancing,” she said. policing needs across the Turks and “We informed the Police Heads that Caicos Islands together with the we are concerned due to the spate need to strengthen our presence in
some areas and further stated that they wish to reassure [us] and the community of Grand Turk that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force remains committed to providing all communities across the Islands with effective policing services 24/7. The PDM has informed the Police that we will make further representations on this matter.”
Ministry of Health comments on migrant health evaluation policy
The Ministry of Health wishes to clarify that there has been no changes to the Migrant Health Evaluation Policy particularly in regard to HIV testing. In a Government press release, the ministry said HIV testing along with several other health tests and checks remain a part of the overall examination process where the results contribute to the decision as to classify an applicant as being fit or unfit to engage in employment in the Turks & Caicos Islands. “Health Evaluations
inclusive of HIV testing are presently being carried out by several authorized examining physicians and are reviewed by the Certifying Health Officer from the Ministry of Health, who would then issue a certificate of fitness to the Immigration Board, granted the applicant meets all the necessary criteria. The Ministry is currently working to strengthen the policy and guidelines which will assist in streamlining the process and provide much needed clarity for all persons seeking health certification,” the
Douglas Missick to appeal 5-year sentence Douglas Missick, the North businessman who was imprisoned for five years in jail on September 30, 2015 after he was found guilty for a gun-attacked on his family with his licensed firearm on August 30, 2014, is appealing the sentence. However, Missick, who has begun his sentence at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk, wants to be released until the appeal is determined. His matter is set to be heard on December 18, according to the Supreme Court list. His attorney Skippings told The SUN that his case for release pending his appeal was first placed before Supreme Court Judge Justice Robert, but she referred it to another judge, since she was the one who presided over the trial. As a result, Skippings said case will be heard by Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale.
A jury found Missick guilty on, July 29, 2015, before presiding Justice Robert Shuster. Additionally, the court has ruled that any current firearms license held by Missick should be revoked and for the rest of his natural life will not be allowed to apply for a gun or ammunition. Missick was charged with possession of firearm with intent to endanger lives contrary to Section 21 of the Firearms Ordinance and possession of ammunition with intent to endanger lives. The victims in the matter were listed as his wife and sons Leonorah Missick, Leonardo Missick and Neville Missick respectively. The charges stemmed from a report that he discharged rounds from a Smith and Wesson revolver on the night of Saturday, August 30, 2014, at the Darlington Higgs Apartment in Withby on that island.
release said. The TCI SUN recently carried an article which stated that persons who have HIV/AIDS will now be allowed to get work permits in the Turks and Caicos Islands. According to health officials, that was because Government has been gradually phasing out the policy whereby persons who test positive for HIV/AIDS were denied work permits and in some cases, asked to leave the country. Legal and medical sources told The SUN that Government
really has no choice but to grant work permits to persons with HIV/ AIDS because such persons could sue the Turks and Caicos Islands Government on the grounds of discrimination. When contacted, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, who is also Minister of Health, told The SUN that Government intends to formalise the policy to allow persons with HIV/ AIDs to be granted permits. “That is not the policy but that is the intention,” the Premier said.
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The successful applicant will be responsible for the deployment, configuration and maintenance of all the computer hardware and software utilized throughout the organization. Responsibilities: •Design, install, configure and administer domain controllers, file servers, mail servers workstations, network devices and web-page hosting/maintenance •Set up and administer security groups, user accounts, group policies and security restrictions; Maintain network connectivity, telephone equipment, and other network appliances. •Install and configure surveillance equipment and surveillance management software Maintain Point-OfSale (POS) operating on Microsoft SQL platform, and attached paraphernalia, including scales and hand held •Provide support, analyze data, run macros/scripts for P.O.S using SQL platform Requirements: •B.Sc., Computer Information Systems •Minimum of 3-4 years experience carrying out responsibilities listed •Experience with Active Directory and Microsoft Server 2003/2008, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft XP/ Vista •A detailed understanding of TCP/IP is essential •Excellent written and oral communication skills; highly self-motivated, able to work without supervision with keen attention to detail •Proven analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Requirements for all Applicants: Hardworking team player with excellent people skills. Willingness to work, weekends and holidays as required. In addition to the performance of the essential functions employees may able required to perform supportive functions, with the percentage of time performing each function to be solely determined by the supervisor. One (1) Gardener Looking for an experienced gardener to plant and maintain the owner’s grounds. Salary: $250.00 per week Two (2) Labourers Applicant must be physical, able-bodied individuals capable of lifting heavy loads. Wages: starting from $6.50 per hour Two (2) Domestic Workers All aspects of cleaning & other domestic duties including preparing meals for the Owner Applicant must be of excellent character and work ethics. Be able to work independently Applicant must be willing to work flexible hours One (1) Supervisor Duties includes -Assist in supervision of inventory received -Verification of quality, condition -Set up and maintain product rotation -Assist in computer data entry -Inventory related matters -Assist in Supervision of staff within department Job involves substantial manual labour related work. Individual must posse’s minimum of 5 (five) CXC subjects or equivalent, have at least 8 (eight) previous years experience in quality control and be able to work with little supervision. Salary: commensurate with experience starting from $2,000.00 per month Island Pride Fuel One (1) Labourer General cleaning & Relief Gas Attendant
Submit applications to by December 23, 2015 to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department Town Center Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Integrity Commission chairman pleased with its progress
“I am very pleased to see the result of the work of persons who joined Chairman of the Integrity the commission after 2012, the injection Commission Sir David Simmons of resources by the government in said he is pleased with the progress 2012 meant that for the first time which the institution has made and we were able to create a proper staff the financial support it has received structure, a hierarchic system from from the Turks and Caicos Islands Director to main office attendant and Government. we persuaded the government and Addressing the 2nd Annual they responded affirmatively that Anti-Corruption Open Day Ceremony we needed to have a Deputy Director. in Providenciales on Wednesday Prior to that it was Mr. Otuonye and December 9th, 2015 at The Palms, ourselves but he couldn’t take lead Simmons said, “After all of the events because it would be nobody to carry out culminating in the (Sir Robin) Auld the executive functions. Now we have a report, it was important for us to send a Deputy and other members of staff. The different signal to the rest of the region importance of that career structure, if and more importantly to the wider you like, a new establishment is that world, that as it were, a breath of fresh we committed the Deputy Director air was coming to blow through the to assume responsibility for public Turks and Caicos Islands and ensure education and we assigned to him Ms. that its people in the future gained the McCartney,” Simmons stated. respect of the rest of the world and put “Now it is crucial if our work to events of previous years behind.” is to have any meaning, if integrity Sir David, a former Attorney is to be properly promoted in these General and Chief Justice of Barbados, islands that we undertake relentlessly said the present government in 2012 a program of public education, starting moved swiftly to ensure that the in the schools...because we wish to Commission was properly financed ingrain in students at the earliest ages and resourced. He noted that the and at the earliest ability to understand, Commission is a constitutional body the importance of being an integritous that carries “a tremendous amount person,” Simmons explained. of weight authority and power”, but He added” As a Barbadian it would be “anomalous if it did not and having served here for the last have proper resources to undertake its five years, it has been a labour of mission and to undertake its mandate”. love because I have a tremendous By Todeline Defralien
amount of satisfaction from seeing this institution rise from virtually a piece of paper to a functional reality that is an institution whose sole objective is to promote integrity and good governance in these islands.” The vision of the Turks and Caicos Islands Integrity Commission is the Turks and Caicos Islands as a corruption free nation with high ethical standards, where persons in public life are respected for their integrity and commitment to serve their people. The Mission of the Integrity Commission in Turks and Caicos is to lead in combating corruption, promoting integrity and increasing legal compliance amongst persons in public life, so that public resources are used fairly and for the benefit of all TCI people. Sir David was made a Knight of St Andrew (Order of Barbados) in November 2001. On 1 January 2002, he became Chief Justice of Barbados. He is a Member Of The Regional Judicial And Legal Services Commission of the Caribbean Court of Justice and Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Integrity Commission. He has also served as Chairman of a number of national and international judicial bodies: Chairman of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (1997/98); Chairman of the EU/Caribbean Conference
Chairman of the Integrity Commission Sir David Simmons which developed the “Barbados Plan of Action” (1996); Chairman of the Joint US/Caribbean Sub-Committee which developed a Plan of Action on Justice and Security issues, signed by President Clinton and Caribbean Heads (1997); Chairman of the Regional Committee for the establishment of a Maritime Cooperation Against the Traffic in Illicit Narcotic Drugs in the Caribbean project (1999-2002); Chairman of the Preparatory Committee to establish the Caribbean Court of Justice (1999-2001); first Chairman of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (2003-2004); Chairman of the High Level Task Force to supervise the inauguration of the Caribbean Court of Justice (2004-2005).
AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 14th December 2015 to 8th January 2016. The available position is for a PASTRY CHEF. JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for assisting in the management of the day-to-day pastry operation of the Restaurant Facility on Ambergris Cay, providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. Performing additional responsibilities, although not detailed, as requested by the Lead Chef and/or Sous Chef ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1.Assisting the Lead Chef and Sous Chef with all back house operations; 2.Assist in planning, preparation and presentation of meals for guests on Ambergris Cay. 3.Preparing and cooking necessary food items as advised by the Lead Chef or Sous Chef 4.Cleaning and maintaining kitchen work stations 5.Keeping all necessary stocks organized 6.Delivery of outstanding food services to a professional standard. 7.Excellent hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines. 8.Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1.5 years relevant experience operating in a high quality international environment. 2.International experience of preparing food for special events. 3.Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor. 4.A resourceful personality. 5.Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period. 6.Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience. Closing date for applications: Friday, 18th December, 2015. Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777 ; Fax: (649)-941-3778
The Shore Club is now accepting applications/résumé for the following position. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER •Oversee the construction project from start to finish •Assist in preparation of Project Specific Safety Pre-Planning •Assist in preparation of Project Specific Quality Assurance/Quality Control Plan with Commercial Asset Coordinator •Responsible for the management of all site operations and contractor coordination •Established QA/QC systems. •Established Site Health and Safety policy. •Close out procedures including testing, commissioning, final inspections and hand over. •Required to chair and record weekly contractor meetings. •Involved in the review and approval of contractor method statements, submittals, RFI’s and shop drawings. •Required to regularly monitor and report on construction progress against the approved schedule. •Ensure that construction activities move according to pre-determined schedule. Devise the project work plans and make revisions as and when need arises. Communicate effectively with the contractors responsible for completing various phases of the project. •Co-ordinate the efforts of all parties involved in the project, which include the architects, consultants, contractors, sub-contractors and laborers. •Monitor the progress of the construction activities on a regular basis and hold regular status meetings with all the sub-teams. LINE POSITIONS HVAC\MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN POOL & BEACH SUPERVISOR HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR FOOD & BEVERAGE ADMINISTRATOR ENGINEERING ADMINISTRATOR BARTENDER COOKS GROUNDSMEN LABOURER HOUSEMAN ROOM ATTENDANTS LAUNDRY ATTENDANTS POOL & BEACH ATTENDANTS
For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Turks and Caicos Islands post-Cabinet meeting statement
His Excellency the Governor, scholarship costs based on cost of living Peter Beckingham, chaired the 32nd is to be undertaken and submitted to meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday, Cabinet for consideration; 9th December 2015, held at the Hilly •Approve the recommendations Ewing Building in Providenciales. of the Procurement Board in line with the All Ministers were present Public Procurement Ordinance 2012 as it except the Hon. Premier, the Hon relates to contract No. TR 15/11 Repairs Minister for Tourism, Environment, to Ports Authority Dock Office South Heritage and Culture and the Hon. Caicos; Minister of Home Affairs, Transportation •Approve the recommendation of and Communication. The Hon. Premier the Procurement Board in line with the and the Hon. Minister for Tourism, Public Procurement Ordinance 2012 as it Environment, Heritage and Culture relates to contract No. 15/49 Temporary participated via teleconference. Repairs to Damaged Seawall Front Street At this meeting Cabinet, advised Grand Turk; His Excellency the Governor to: •Approve the recommendation of •Approve an increase to the the Procurement Board in line with the scholarship awards to the United Public Procurement Ordinance 2012 as it Kingdom in various categories noting relates to contract No. 15/30 Vehicles for that this increase was being approved the DPP’s Office; as a result of the increased cost of living •Approve the Political Activities and exchange rates in the UK. Cabinet (Amendment) Bill 2015 and the Elections has agreed to utilise all of the remaining (Amendment) Bill in preparation for the funds in the scholarship vote. It further 2016 General Elections and for the said agreed that a general review of the Bill to be forwarded to the next meeting
of the House of Assembly for debate and passage. These amendments were recommended by the Elections Observer Mission during the November 9, 2012 General Elections and the Supervisor of Elections during the March 2013 byelections. The amendments also tidy up some technical and typographical errors and to provide for procedures for independent candidates; •Approve the Food and Drug Bill/Regulations and for the said Bill to be forwarded to the next meeting of the House of Assembly for debate and passage; the purpose of the Bill is to protect the public against hazards and fraud in the sale and use of foods, drugs, cosmetic and medical devices; •Approve amendments to the Shore Club Development Agreement, subject to the provision of additional financial information being obtained. Further information on these matters will be provided by Ministers in due course.
Governor praises Sonia Bien-Aime for her anti-corruption stance Speaking at the Integrity Commission’s Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December, the Governor Peter Beckingham highlighted the importance of the smallest countries like Turks and Caicos getting more involved in good governance. “While it may be natural to associate corruption with some of the biggest countries or organisations in the world, like FIFA, it is important that even the smallest countries have a role to play in setting an example. TCI is no exception.” The Governor noted that, in a recent publication by journalists of the London Times on corruption in FIFA, it was reported that TCI’s Ms Sonia Bien-Aime, the Caribbean Representative on FIFA’s Executive Committee, had returned a gift valued
at several thousand dollars at a FIFA politicians of whatever persuasion. I function. “Unlike other delegates” the am also pleased that the Declaration Governor said “Ms Sonia Bien-Aime of Interests is now taken so much more didn’t hesitate to return the watch seriously as a living document for the she had been presented, given its country.” substantial monetary value. By doing The Governor concluded by so she demonstrated that, representing applauding the work of the Integrity TCI, she was not to be bought. It was a Commission, especially its work in fine and laudable example.” highlighting among schools and other The Governor noted other ways groups the importance of integrity in in which elected representatives of public life. “The Commission” he noted “is Turks and Caicos could set an example unique in TCI in having a responsibility to society as a whole. He remarked to shine a light on good governance, that, quite correctly, Cabinet Ministers integrity and anti-corruption. This is and officials had recused themselves inevitably a difficult and sometimes from discussions in Cabinet where challenging role” the Governor said, there was a risk of personal interests “but with the inspirational leadership of clashing with those of the country as its Board, whose work I applaud, TCI is a whole. “Absenting themselves was beginning to stand out in the region as the correct thing to do, and I hope that something of a model on how to organise their example will be followed by all a successful anti corruption body”.
Landscape laborer required
A maintenance company on Providenciales is seeking to recruit a landscape laborer to join our team. The successful candidate must have the following experience and skill set; Min 3 years experience in landscape maintenance Responsible for weeding, pruning, trimming all plants on property Must have good knowledge of gardening techniques and ability to apply pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers properly Responsible for the upkeep and general maintenance of properties Ability to maintain and repair irrigation systems Willingness to perform laborious tasks Self motivated and industrious applicants need only apply Ability to follow directions and accomplish everyday jobs promptly $7.00 per hour Please forward all applications via email to maintenancedept@khcapital.com
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 Todeline Defralien 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.
AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 14th December 2015 to 8th January 2016. The available position is for a PROFESSIONAL LEAD CHEF. JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for managing all facets of the day-to-day operation of the Restaurant Facility on Ambergris Cay, providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, with full responsibility for the planning, coordination, organization and monitoring of all Restaurant activities, as well as the hands-on preparation of a wide range of high quality and creative dishes for a discerning clientele. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1.Hands on planning, preparation and presentation of all meals for guests on Ambergris Cay. 2.Delivery of outstanding food services to a professional standard. 3.Excellent hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines. 4.Be well versed in wines, with ability to make recommendations to assist guests. 5.Responsible for the direct supervision and coordination of all activities of the Kitchen employees. 6.Manage the start-up and stocking of the restaurant, and subsequent closure of facilities at end of term. 7.Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1.20 years relevant experience, including 10 years as Lead Chef, operating in a high quality and high pressure environment, providing fine-dining in an international environment. 2.Excellent verbal and written communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor. 3.Must have a polished and professional appearance. 4.Passionate about fine dining and the ability to express this in the most creative manner. 5.A resourceful personality. 6.Excellent references are essential 7.Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period. Salary: Commensurate with experience. Closing date for applications: Friday, 18th December, 2015. Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777 ; Fax: (649)-941-3778.
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Some TCI politicians don’t have any integrity, says Bishop Bryant Cox
By Todeline Defralien
Some TCI politicians in the Turks and Caicos Islands don’t have any integrity, says Bishop Bryant Cox. Delivering the keynote address at the 2nd Annual Anti-Corruption Open Day Ceremony in Providenciales on Wednesday December 9th, 2015 at The Palms, Cox said, “Some of our politicians, even though they have gone through the Integrity Commission, still has no level of integrity. You see them in the public domain and sometimes they forget little children are around and they act as if them and the children are company. On paper, that’s good, but what about themselves as individuals. The Turks and Caicos has been considered as a God fearing nation. Some of our leaders don’t even want to go to church. They’re at the casinos all day. You might say that’s their personal preference, but if you consider yourself a God fearing nation, (then) show that you are a God fearing nation. Don’t use God for convenience when it benefits you.” Bishop Cox added: “If you want to test a man’s character give him power; even if it’s only for five minutes. See how much damage he will do. No matter how educated, talented, rich or cool you believe you are how you treat people ultimately tells all of your integrity. From the Human Rights stand point in this country many of us do not have integrity on our jobs. We believe that this integrity is only for the politicians, because they have to
disclose their valuables so we can see how rich they have come during their term of ministry with government, but we overlook ourselves. We want them to have integrity, but we ourselves do not have it.” Bishop Cox quoted from billionaire businessman Warren Buffett who said to look for three things in a person’s life; intelligence, energy and integrity. Cox said,”If they do not have the last one, don’t even bother with the first two. The Director (of the Integrity Commission) mentioned how far we have gone in the region with our integrity bill but the problems that exist today will not go away... it’s almost a little too late that they started. Where would we be if it was enacted in 2008? We have to be proactive as a nation ...and yes we...have no choice but to bring it (Integrity Commission) into existence, else we wouldn’t be here today. If it was not instituted, it was not by choice, it was a must. Big brother was watching over us.” Bishop Cox made the point that integrity gives persons the ability to affect those around them positively. “The Governor spoke about our young lady who was in the sports hall of fame that gave back the watch. If you ask the voters today who you going to vote for when elections is called next year the majority of them will say ‘who give me something’. I may go to the politicians they gone say ‘my hands tie’ where is your hands tied in front of you or is it tied in the back of you. The
Keynote speaker for the 2nd Annual Anti-Corruption Open Day Ceremony in Providenciales Bishop Bryant Cox. fact that you told them your hands tied, is an indication that if it was not tied, what damage you would do. Instead of saying ‘vote for me because I can do the job if they lose my hands I would fix you up’. That’s not the principle. So you ask them who is not here ‘look do something for me’ my hand tie and if your hand is tied then you telling me if it was lose you would do something. So we have to be careful that little person walk away telling them ‘I believe I’m the right candidate, the right person to represent you, I believe I can do well I can’t do nothing for you where I am but if you vote for me I’ll do my best’.” Continuing his criticism of
some politicians, Bishop Cox added: “Sometimes you would hear the political speeches and there is no level of integrity in them. They are telling lies from the minute they got on the podium until they’re off the mike. It’s pure lies. There is no level of integrity there, and when the elections brought them in...the poor people suffer, the rich man who didn’t even need anything gets it all. Where is the integrity? I will see you three-and-a-half years later and ask you to do it again and do it again and I take home my $80,000, my $60,000 and I don’t care about you. That’s not integrity.”
WATERLOO HOTEL MANAGEMENT LIMITED
Alexandra Resort, Blue Haven Resort & Marina and the Beach House We are seeking to employ, suitably qualified and experienced hospitality professionals in the positions listed below. Our ideal candidate should have an outstanding command of the English language, written and oral, strong communication and excellent customer service skills. Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Engineering & Grounds •Chief Engineer •Landscaping/Grounds Manager •Maintenance Manager •Electricians •Maintenance/Room Technicians •Carpenter Helper Food and Beverage •Restaurant Maintenance Technician •Executive Sous Chefs •Asst. Restaurant Manager •Restaurant Supervisors •Sous Chefs •Head Chefs •Raw Bar Cooks •Line Cooks •Bartenders •Hostess •Servers •Pool and Beach Servers •Food Runners •Stewards (Overnight) Accounting/Administration •Hospitality Financial Controllers
•Hospitality Accountants •Human Resources Assistant •Storeroom Associate •Cost Control Clerks •Purchasing Personnel Guest Services •Senior Guest Services Agents •Airport Greeter •Receptionist Spa •Spa Director/Manager •Spa Therapists Loss Prevention •Loss Prevention Manager •Loss Prevention Supervisors •Senior Loss Prevention Officers Rooms Division •Rooms Supervisors •Room Attendants •Housemen •Public Area Attendants
Interested persons may contact our HR department Mon. – Fri. from 9am-3pm via telephone number 946-5807 or you may submit your resume with qualifications and experience to: cgibbons@wihl.com
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Chief Justice to rule on David Smith $21 million default claim
Smith waived his rights to an extradition hearing and flew to the United States where he was wanted Chief Justice Margaret on money laundering and wire fraud Ramsay-Hale could soon make a ruling charges amounting to $220 million. as to whether or not former OLINT After striking a deal with boss David Smith is to be sentenced prosecutors, Smith pleaded guilty in for what the office of the Director of the U.S. District Court for the Middle Public Prosecution (DPP) claimed is District of Florida in September his refusal to repaying $20.9 million to 2011, to 23 counts of wire fraud and investors of his now defunct company. money laundering. A portion of his US The DPP filed an application sentence was to run concurrently with for a breach of the confiscation order the Turks and Caicos sentence, which against Smith on the basis that the meant that he would spend about 23 time within which the court had years in the US prison. ordered him to repay funds had expired. He was also ordered to forfeit In 2012, when Smith was assets seized by Federal authorities. convicted, the local court made a Smith returned to the Turks and confiscation order requiring him to Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale Caicos Islands to serve out the local repay $20.9million, and if defaulted, to recognized that fact and reduced the prison term with the expectation that spend up to eight years in jail. sentence on such grounds. he would go back to the United States Smith’s Attorney Oliver Smith David Smith was arrested after it was completed. opposed the DPP’s claim on a number in February 2009, after officers from He was released in February of grounds, primary among them is the Financial Crimes Unit seized a 2015, and was due to return to the the length of time the prosecution number of computers from his office. US, but his legal team objected to took to bring the action against his He was later slapped with a plethora the move until it was sure that the client, which he argued was undue and of financial crimes charges, including U.S. prosecutor with whom Smith unreasonable delay. theft of $220 million. struck the deal, for a lighter sentence, And according to him, based His wife, Tracy was also followed through with the sentencing on those grounds, the court should arrested, but Smith struck a deal with judge on that agreement. either dismiss the case or reduce the local prosecution to drop the charges The defense further argued amount of money that he is required to against her in exchange for his guilty that Smith had already served time pay. plea. He was then sentenced to six in the Turks and Caicos on money The attorney argued further and a half years in jail. The court also laundering charge, therefore creating that assets that could be realized had ordered that he repaid $20.9 million double jeopardy if he should return already been realized or in a position to that he was said to have taken from there to be sentenced on the same do so, adding that gifts deemed tainted investors. charge. The defense further argued had been lost, and they should Before the court impose the sentence, that he could not be extradited on By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor
Digicel prides itself on its customers and people. As the number 1 provider of Mobile, TV and Broadband to both Consumers and Businesses here in TCI, we are always looking for the best local talent who will put our customers at the heart of everything they do. As part of our continuing success we are looking for the next cream of the crop. Are you passionate about service? Interested in working in a technological, fast paced rewarding environment? Then Digicel is the place for you!
VACANCY Job Title: Chief Financial Officer Type: Permanent Location: Digicel TCI, Graceway House Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Responsibility •Manage the financial resources of the company and conduct resource planning for future needs. •Drive strategic planning of the organization. •Supervises business performance and takes steps to improve the performance of the organization. •Responsible for account monitoring and control of all the departments of the organization. •Prepares and supervises the financial reports in discussion with other departments in the company, and presents to Senior Management Team/Board of Directors •Assist in the analysis and development of new pricing structures and promotions. •Management of all Balance sheet accounts, ensuring timely completion of reconciliations and clearance of reconciling items. •Prepare annual accounting files for auditors and draft statutory accounts. •Ensure that company’s policy regarding procurement and expenditure is observed and that the requisite approvals are obtained before
David Smith wire fraud charges since it is not an extraditable offense. However, the office of the Director of Public Prosecution objected to what it described as an about face by the defense, who they believe was stalling the process. In June, Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner recommended that Smith be extradited on money laundering only. But local prosecutors are claiming that he was yet to comply with the 2012 court order to the repay $20.9 million. If convicted, Smith would have to serve out the imposed sentence at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk before returning to the US to begin his sentence.
disbursement of funds. ACADEMIC QULIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: •Qualified CIA,ACCA,CMA or CPA •Experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, forecasting, reporting and cost control principles including International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) •At least 10 years of financial experience and management experience with the day –to-day financial operations in a large organization. REQUIRED SKILLS AND SPECIALIZED TECHNIQUES: •Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles (US GAAP & IFRS reporting standards) •Knowledge of automated financial and accounting software applications •Ability to analyze financial data and prepare financial reports, statements and projections. •Working knowledge of short and long term budgeting and forecasting, rolling budgets, and product-line profitability analysis •Professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills •Leadership skills and ability to motivate team to produce quality output and meet tight deadlines while keeping routine tasks up-to-date •Willingness to work flexible hours •Willingness to travel to Board meetings monthly
Deadline: Interested applicants should forward their Resume and Cover letter to hrtci@digicelgroup.com on or before 18th. December, 2015 Qualified Belongers of the Turks and Caicos are encouraged to apply.
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Mexican company takes over Dolphin Cove
Dolphin Cove, which is poised to establish a dolphin park in the Turks and Caicos Islands to be taken over by Mexico-based company, Dolphin Discovery. However, the Jamaicanbased Dolphin Cove is calling the transaction more of a merger than a takeover. Reports coming out of Jamaica is that stock market watchers became anxious after the huge trading of Dolphin Cove shares. The Jamaica Stock Exchange said more than 229 million units of Dolphin Cove shares were traded last week. This movement has a dollar value of J$3.7 billion and represents more than 58 per cent of Dolphin Cove’s available shares. Dolphin Cove, which is
principally owned and managed by the Burrowes family, has been in operation for 15 years. Dolphin Cove has explained that while the transaction will include some takeover, it’s more of a merger. Dolphin Cove’s chairman and CEO, Stafford Burrowes confirmed that the transaction accounts for the takeover by Dolphin Discovery. Dolphin Discovery has six locations: Puerto Aventuras, Cozumel, CancunIsla Mujeres, Six Flags Park Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta. Dolphin Cove is to spend approximately US $3million to construct of a dolphin attraction on the Island of Grand Turk. Local architect Oliver Stubbs was charged with the responsibility to develop the drawing
for the project. The Physical Planning had approved the construction of the project on condition that it adheres to a number of stipulations. One of the prerequisites is that an environmental impact assessment (EIA) be conducted. Neil Borrowes, who is pushing for the project’s realization in the TCI, said that once Dolphin Cove proved that it has complied with all the steps, and if the Physical Planning Department gives its stamp of approval, the issuing of a permit to construct would follow. He said that after the construction of the facility the Physical Planning Department would do another inspection, and if approved, would then issue with an occupancy permit, thereby giving the
green light for the facility to become operational. Burrowes, in the meantime, revealed that he has been itching for the Turks and Caicos Islands Dolphin Cove Project to commence since several jurisdictions in the region, which are moving to bolster their tourism product, have been luring a Dolphin Cove attraction, and is eager to complete this project before moving on. Not everyone is warming towards the establishment of a dolphin park in the TCI. Some persons are against the project on the grounds that dolphins should not be made captive, especially that one of the tourism attractions, Jojo the Dolphin is a not a captive dolphin.
Digicel group acquires controlling interest in Prism Holdings The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Library Services has negotiated with Beaches Resort to conduct a Youth Apprenticeship Program aimed at High School graduates from 2014-15 for departmental rotation on the resort. Interested graduates must be willing to commence classes February 2016 with Beaches Resort. The duration of study for the Apprenticeship Program is six months. Students will receive a stipend on a biweekly basis, to assist
with their upkeep. All interested graduates from across the islands and who meet the criteria outlined are invited to apply. ELIGIBILITY Apprenticeship may be awarded to persons who satisfy the following criteria:1.Have completed Secondary Education at any of the High Schools
AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill two temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 14th December 2015 to 8th January 2016. The available positions are for SPECIAL EVENTS SOUS CHEF. JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for assisting in the management of all facets of the day-to-day operation of the Restaurant Facility on Ambergris Cay, providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, assisting in planning, coordination, organization and monitoring of all Restaurant activities, as well as hands-on preparation of a wide range of high quality and creative dishes for a discerning clientele. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1.Assist in planning, preparation and presentation of all meals for guests on Ambergris Cay. 2.Delivery of outstanding food services to a professional standard. 3.Excellent hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines. 4.Assist in the direct supervision and coordination of all kitchen activities. 5.Assist in all other duties as required by the Lead Chef. 6.Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1.10 years relevant experience, including 5 years as Sous / Events Chef, operating in a high quality and high pressure environment, providing finedining in an international environment. 2.International experience of working on special event arrangements; 3.Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor. 4.A resourceful personality. 5.Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period. 6.Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience. Closing date for applications: Friday, 18th December, 2015. Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777 ; Fax: (649)-941-3778.
in 2014 or 2015. 2.Currently NOT attending the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College or an A-level program. 3.Must be willing to comply with the policies and procedures including standards of appearance of the company. Applications forms will be available from the Ministry of Education on Grand Turk, The
Education Department and Youth Departments on Providenciales, The Labour Department and District Commissioners’ Offices throughout the islands. All applications along with High School leaving Certificates should be forwarded to the Ministry of Education, Grand Turk on or before January 31st 2016. Please note that successful applicants will be responsible for their living arrangements during the six months.
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Benderia Harris, TCI’s lone female Airport Ramp attendant climbing through the ranks in short order. She said that the field provides Senior Sun Editor some level of comfort to her. “I can see There are approximately it. I do what I am supposed to do most 80 ramp agents employed at the of the times. When I am on this job, I Providenciales International Airport feel very comfortable. You just have to and only one is female. She is Benderia be yourself, come perform the job and Harris. that’s it,” she said. However, her performance Harris said that she is happy outshines those of the majority of her to be the first woman on record to male counterparts spanning all three work as a ramp agent, saying that of the ground handling companies she would encourage other females that operate at the airport, according to take on such roles because it is to management at TCA Handling, to very rewarding. She however, warned which she is employed. against unpreparedness. A ramp agent assists with According to her, individuals loading and unloading at aircraft should always prepare especially arrivals and before departures. These mentally before taking on certain roles airline personnel work on the tarmac, because they could be left disappointed also known as the ramp, handling basic when they realize the job and its aircraft servicing, baggage processing, Benderia Harris behind the wheel of one of the luggage carts accompanying climate is not what they and customer needs. They need to be Airport from December 2014 as a counterparts by far. Owen Roberts, were looking for. able to drive heavy equipment used to ramp agent. Her superiors said that TCA Handling’s Flight Service At first, Harris, a certified move baggage and supplies. at the time when she applied for the Coordinator at the Providenciales mechanic, who also has architecture, Harris’ highlighted job, ramp agent position was the only International Airport, said that she has design and carpentry as her performance confirms that if given the slot open, but she told them that she been the most dependable employee in background, said the job was somewhat opportunity, women will prove that wanted to try it out. her department, as she rarely called in intimidating, but after opening to they can match their male counterparts She told The SUN that at first sick. learning and adhering to instructions, in every professional area, even the it was a bit challenging, having to drive Harris said that the males it did not take long before she became ones that have been bandied about as to and from airplanes with the carts, on the job admire her work ethic, a pro. male-dominated. conducting loading and unloading explaining that they have been In the meantime, Roberts said At airports across the world, a of cargo. She said while initially, the tremendous support to her as well. that just like the male workers, Harris ramp agent is regarded as job either job was a bit challenging, she never Asked of her daily interaction with the expertly unload and offload from the reserved for, or sought after by males. thought of giving up. guys, she said: “They treat my just like cargo hole. Roberts said that based on But Harris is changing all of that. Now, according to her one of them.” her academics and work ethics, Harris Harris has been working at management, the overly shy Benderia, Harris said that based on can easily elevate to a higher position the Providenciales International outpaces many of her male her love for the field, she sees herself in the company. By Vivian Tyson
AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP)
Professional Maintenance Company
SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION
seeking the following skilled technician
Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill two temporary posts on Ambergris Cay for the period 14th December 2015 to 8th January 2016. The available positions are for RESTAURANT HOST/MAITRE’D.
Refrigeration Maintenance technician
JOB SUMMARY: Work alongside with the Lead Chef and Sous Chef to organize and direct the activities of all the Food and Beverage department of the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay to ensure an exceptional level of customer service and satisfaction. Providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, assisting in monitoring of all Restaurant front house activities. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1.Supervising of the waiting staff, welcoming guests and assigning them to tables, taking reservations, and ensuring that guests are satisfied. 2.Assist in presentation of all meals to guests using the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay. 3.Delivery of outstanding services to a professional standard. 4.Excellent knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines. 5.Assist in all other duties as required by the Lead Chef & or Sous Chef. 6.Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1.10 years relevant experience operating in a high quality environment, providing a fine-dining experience in an international environment. 2.International experience of working on special event arrangements; 3.Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor. 4.A resourceful personality. 5.Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period. 6.Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience. Closing date for applications: Friday, 18th December, 2015.
Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777; Fax: (649)-941-3778.
Maintain the day-to-day operations and to assume responsibility for maintaining the physical assets of the properties under the direction of Premier Contracting Services Ltd.
Duties and Skill set required •Inspect, repair, modify and install HVAC equipment including refrigeration, A/C, compressors, receivers, expansion valves, condensers and evaporators •Conduct preventative maintenance and inspection of refrigeration units and Air-conditioning systems, make necessary adjustments or repairs •Repair or replace defective electrical or mechanical controls •Operate a variety of tools including welding torches, pressure gauges, electrical testing equipment, and vacuum pumps. •Repair and rebuild semi hermetic reciprocating compressors. •Perform skilled electrical or maintenance work, installation and alteration of HVAC equipment, components, timers, wiring systems, diagnostic and troubleshooting •Maintain records concerning time, labor and materials, maintain log of tasks performed •Lift heavy objects •Communicate in English effectively both orally and writing
Education and Experience •Certificate and 5 years documentable HVAC journeyman level operation, maintenance and repair experience in the HVAC refrigeration trade •Valid driver’s license
Please submit applications via email at maintenance@khcapital.com
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
CIBC FirstCaribbean donates $15,500 to TCI’s National Cancer Society By Todeline Defralien
With this being the season of giving, CIBC FirstCaribbean donated a cheque for $15,500 to the Turks and Caicos Islands National Cancer society, on Friday December 4th, 2015 at their Grace Bay branch. CIBC FirstCaribbean’s annual “Walk for the Cure” has raised $400,000 across the Caribbean in the year 2015. The funds raised will go towards the care and support of persons fighting the disease of cancer across the Caribbean. In an interview last week Friday, Country Head for CIBC FirstCaribbean TCI, Larry Lawrence told the media that within the TCI specifically this year, they raised $17,000. “In October 2012 is when we came up with adopting the Cancer Society and as our ultimate fight against whatever disease that was scourging the Caribbean region. The purpose of the funds has been to support the care of persons fighting cancer throughout the Caribbean region. In October 2012 we actually raised only $30,000 regionally that is, TCI’s contribution to that was $1,465. In 2013, we raised $100,000 and TCI’s contribution to that was $2,475, regionally. In 2014, we raised $200,000 and TCI’s contribution to that was $11,500. This year, we raised $400,000 regionally so doubling the $200,000 and TCI’s contribution to that was
$17,000,” Lawrence said. He added: “The efforts of the staff members have been sterling and of course we have been able to get the support of the customers because what we do have is every week from July 2015 we would have our weekly bake sales within the branch and customers who just attend our premises would have the benefit of being able to treat, and in doing so, they ultimately supported our cancer society initiative and cumulatively we raised $7,000 From (R-L) Elena Patrick, National Cancer Society member, Country Head for CIBC TCI, Larry Lawrence and we reached out to our corporate and President of the National Cancer Society, Rosemary Jolly. sponsors, they literally matched our so tirelessly in order to raise these Mark St. Hill added: “The passion to make this happen and they funds for the National Cancer Society. phenomenal growth of this event is a were very much part of team CIBC We are so grateful and of course as we clear testament to the passion, drive FirstCaribbean and our sponsors came said before these funds will go to assist and total commitment of Team CIBC up with $10,000 so accumulatively our patients throughout the Turks FirstCaribbean! However, matching we have a total amount of $17,000 to and Caicos. It’s an appropriate time to our passion and commitment every contribute to the cancer society. What give and it’s the perfect time that this step of the way has been a corps of we have done is broken it down to give contribution is coming to us again on corporate sponsors who have adopted the Turks and Caicos Cancer Society the behalf of the Cancer Society.” this cause with the same fervour as we $1500 out of the $17,000 and the In a press release sent to media have.” National Cancer Society $15,500.” houses CIBC FirstCaribbean executive In a way to thank their President of the National Trevor Torzas noted: “We doubled sponsors for the hard work CIBC Cancer Society, Rosemary Jolly said the funds raised and the number of FirstCaribbean bank made white she was grateful to receive the donation participants this year. We could not t-shirts with the various sponsor’s from FirstCaribbean bank. have asked for a greater response from logos printed on them. The sponsors “I have noted that everyone involved! We thank everyone include Do It Center, Financial FirstCaribbean bank is getting better who took part in the walk for the Cure Services Commission, Olympic every year at this, doubling last year’s from sharing our vision of a region and a Construction, Rubis, Miller Simons donation regionally and so they’re world where persons afflicted by cancer O’Sulivan, Caicos Oil, Family Care able to this year make an even larger and their loved ones can get the care Medical Services, Royal West Indies, contribution to the National Cancer and support they need and deserve: a Graceway Supermarket, Griffiths Society. On the behalf of the Cancer region and a region and a world where & Partners, TCI Structures, TCI Society and its members I would like the words “hope” and “recovery” will Sun, Turks and Caicos Airport Hotel, to thank Larry so much and his staff be synonymous with cancer and not Discovery Tours & Adventures, NW and team who have worked every year “despair” or “hopelessness”. Hamilton and Sandals.
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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TURKS AND CAISOC ISLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE Request for Proposals to Conduct Salary Review of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College Salaries and Allowances
The Turks and Caicos Islands Community College invites proposals from interested individuals, firms or companies for a Consultancy Undertaking to review salaries and allowances of its entire staff.
INTRODUCTION In 1994, the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) was established by Ordinance 25 (1994), with a vision to provide quality education for all sectors of the Turks and Caicos Islands community. Having been in existence for over two decades, the institution continues in its thrust to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills and dispositions that would enable them to access existing and emerging opportunities, prudently exercise their civil responsibilities, enhance their social and cultural lives and become productive citizens. The mission, therefore, encompasses, inter alia, post secondary and continuing education for the school leaving and adult population; it facilitates the promotion of personal and professional development, and the economic growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. TCICC has two campuses, one each located on Grand Turk and Providenciales. The College offers a myriad of programmes, inter alia: Short/Interest courses; one semester courses; Upgrade courses; Full time programmes of two to three semesters culminating in Certificates, Advanced, Certificates, Associate and Bachelors Degrees. Similar to other institutions in the region, and critical to the effective delivery of programme offerings, the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College relies upon the local and overseas recruitment of highly qualified and experienced faculty and staff. Recently, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government conducted a Public Service Salary Review, inclusive of education professionals. Whilst a number of education personnel were reclassified and benefitted from varying degrees of salary increases, the review did not include statutory bodies; therefore, faculty and staff at the TCICC did not benefit from the review, and hence, salaries are purportedly lagging behind those of professionals in similar work-related fields. Notwithstanding that, the TCICC continues in its mission to fulfil its objective of strengthening organizational development, through the strengthening and promotion of employee recruitment and retention strategies. In this context then, the salary review is critical and is intended to bring a level of equity to salaries and other benefits for its entire staff. With this in mind, the TCICC seeks to engage a consultant/consultants to review and propose a revised salary structure for all categories of staff, and explore the feasibility of linking remuneration to job performance.
where, gaps exist; •Consider any necessary revision to the salary structure and propose any necessary adjustments for the various categories of administrative and professional staff; •Explore the feasibility of introducing performancerelated pay structure; •Present to the Board of Governors a draft report of the findings, and recommendations; •At an agreed time and venue, submit to the Board of Governors and other relevant stakeholders, a final report that reflects the suggestions/recommendations/ amendments emanating from the draft report.
ANTICIPATED OUTCOME The development of a salary scale that is consistent with other comparator organizations in the Turks and Caicos Islands market; one that reflects equity; is consistent with corresponding local labour market and prevailing levels of pay for similar services, similar contract conditions and similar positions in other statutory bodies in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
DURATION OF THE CONSULTANCY AND DUTY STATIONING The consultancy is expected to be completed within six (6) weeks from the date of signing the contract. The successful consultant/s shall not be required to be present in the Turks and Caicos Islands, but may work in his/her/their own office with coordinated visits to the TCI as necessary.
REPORTING LINE The work of the consultant will be supervised by the Board of Governors of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College or its designate, and as such, the confirmation of the acceptance of the final report, authorization of payment disbursements, and evaluation of work performance will be undertaken by that entity.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE Proposals are to include the following: Individual’s/Firm’s/Company’s Profile Consultant’s/Consultants’ CV/s Years of experience undertaking similar assignments Methodology to be used for the consultancy
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Work Time Plan
The successful consultant/s will be required to:
Reporting
•Undertake a detailed briefing with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College Board of Governors to lead and guide the salary review process on behalf of the institution; •Review existing documentation as it relates to salary scales, job descriptions and contractual documents to get a full understanding of the scope of the consultancy; •Conduct interviews with several comparator organizations to confirm the salaries, allowances and benefits offered; •Assess the existing remuneration structure of the TCICC vis-à-vis comparator institutions and identify if, and
Cost Expressions of interest are to be sent to: The President, Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands or by email to tcicomc@tciway.tc on or before 18th January 2016.
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
‘Black Thursdays’ mark domestic violence fight
the international body as the day of awareness against domestic and rape. Senior Sun Editor “This button we are wearing Convinced that the horrific today is the promotion for women who practice of domestic violence in the suffer from rape and violence. And Turks and Caicos Islands, for the most we are promoting this (anti-domestic part, go unabated and that a large violence for all women. And so, on number of victims are afraid to report Thursday’s we are to wear this button their abusers for fear of repercussion, a along with black. This is recognition group of Christian women has decided of domestic violence and all kinds to take the bull by the horn. of violence against women,” she The Wesleyan Methodist explained. women have decided to mount a She said that the idea came campaign to especially bring awareness out of a Wesleyan Women’s Conference to the prominence of domestic violence that took place sometime ago in the in the community, with the intention of Central American country of Panama. making victims aware of their options, “This came from a conference and also to bring the crime to the that the Methodist Women throughout attention of the powers that be. the entire world did in Panama some “There is a lot violence against years ago, and it was introduced then. women that is happening in the Turks But it has not formally come on board and Caicos Islands, and the bad thing here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, so is that, the general public is not very that is what we are trying to bring into knowledgeable about it. So I think the community, because we see that it the matter of bringing this idea to is a much-needed idea,” Malcolm said. the communities, it would assist in Sharon Whittaker, President stemming the problem that we have,” of the Wesleyan Methodist Woman’s Members of the Wesleyan Methodist Thursdays Women in Black. From left, Patricia Eke, Vice said Dorothea Malcolm, a member Fellowship and former Superintendent President of the Wesleyan Methodist Women’s Fellowship; Sharon Whittaker, President and Dorothy of the Wesleyan Methodist Woman’s of Police in the Royal Turks and Caicos Malcolm, member. Fellowship. Police Force said that domestic is were a lot of domestic violence but we public and let them know that we are One feature through which alive and well in the Turks and Caicos didn’t have a true record because most here for them as a group,” Whittaker the group intends to spread awareness Islands. She said that while records people are afraid for various reasons. said. is by wearing anti-domestic violence did not capture the true level of the But we are aware that domestic Whittaker said that the group buttons designed by its members, and cruelty in the TCI, there were always violence does exist. A lot of rapes were sells the buttons as part of a fundraising to adorn themselves in black on a signs that the occurrences were high. being committed that went unreported. effort for the organization’s community Thursdays. Thursday is recognized by “We were aware that there So that is why we want to educate the outreach programmes. By Vivian Tyson
OASIS DIVERS is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions. The successful applicants must:
PLAY PAL
-Have a proven and unblemished track record of employment in the entertainment industry -Good interaction with clientele of all ages -Have a valid passport -Have at least 3 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business
PLUMBER
-Have a proven and unblemished track record of employment -Have a valid passport -Have at least 5 years’ experience and appropriate training in the field -Positive and disciplined attitude toward work -Trustworthy and reliable disposition -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business
CHEF
-Have a proven and unblemished track record of employment in the and experience in a high-pressure and quick-paced kitchen -Have a valid passport -At least 5 years’ experience in managing more than 1 kitchen operation -Positive and disciplined attitude toward work -Trustworthy and reliable disposition -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business DUNE BUGGY TOUR GUIDES -Hold a valid TCI Driver’s Licence with a minimum 5 years driving experience. -Be at least 25 years old. -Have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the operation of a tourist passenger vehicle. Other prior experience in the tourist service industry would be an asset. -Possess an excellent driving record. A defensive driving certificate would be an asset. -Have a valid passport. -Be proficient in spoken and written English as primary language. Additional language proficiency will be an asset. -Be trained in CPR and First Aid delivery. -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and public holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business. -Clean criminal record. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes must be addressed to the Manager at the following address: Cee’s Plaza, Suite No. 1 Church Folly PO Box 86 Grand Turk Turks & Caicos Islands
OASIS DIVING, LTD. c/o EPIC Corporate & Consultancy Services Ltd. Phone: 649-946-1128 Fax: 649-946-1128 Email: oasisdiv@tciway.tc
Digicel Supports Kiwanis Club Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
‘Tis the season for sharing and giving, and Digicel is continuing to do their part to spread the joy of Christmas. Once again, during the Christmas season, the children’s faces shone as bright as the lights on the tree, as the community of Provideciales came out to the Annual Kiwanis Club Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. In the spirit of the season, Digicel not only donated to the annual event, but many staff members volunteered to be Santa’s helpers in this year’s gift giving exercise that saw the Kiwanis Club of Providenciales give gifts to several hundred children. Head of Marketing for Digicel, Trina Adams said, “There’s nothing like seeing the glow in the faces of the children as they receive that gift from
Santa. It’s the most fulfilling feeling in the world to know that you’ve helped make that happen. Digicel is a part of the community of the TCI and as such, events like this are important and mean so much to the entire staff.” Prior to Santa’s arrival and the gift giving, the audience of parents and eager children, were treated to a Christmas concert that featured singers and performers from, Clement Howell High School, Enid Capron Primary, Ianthe Pratt Primary, Oseta Jolly Primary, Shining Stars Preparatory, Wesley Methodist Church, the RTCIPF Band and more. The Kiwanis Club has been hosted this event for over 20 years, and Digicel has been a proud support for the past three years.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR We are looking for a highly self motivated professional who possesses a keen interest in hostility with the ability to effectively manage a well established Luxurious Five Star Golf Resort on an Island. The successful candidate will be responsible for the following: Minimum 8 years of Hotel Management of an out Island Resort(s), including managing start-up and growth. Effective running of the day-to-day operation of the hotel while ensuring that all cost effective measures are enforced. Maintain a positive and professional work attitude towards all employees and Guest. Attending to the needs of all internal and external guest with a drive to meet and exceed expectations as well as providing top quality services to all guest while achievements the goals of the company. Salary is negotiable Fax: (649)941-8388 Application Deadline December 30th, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
The Sands is now accepting applications/resume for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:
POOL & BEACH SUPERVISOR Responsibilities:
•Oversees and maintain complete safety in and around pool and beach areas •Follows operating standards in accordance to TCI laws and hotel procedures on job duties and life-safety •Maintains proper levels of service and equipment furniture and maintenance •Assist in the conducting of guest activities in the pool areas •Monitor entire cleaning operations for the cleanliness, health and sanitation of the pools and surrounding area •Assist in every way possible to assure proper customer service is being upheld. •Enforces pool and beach sanitation and safety rules and requirements •Supervises pool and beach areas for safety and customer service •Monitors and upholds guest areas (No Solicitation policy is enforced and facilities for registered hotel guests only) •Trains new employees on proper protocol and customer service •Ensures all furniture setting are inline, organized and set to hotel resort standards •Complete all tasks for the day and oversee all duties/projects in a timely fashion •Ensure safety precautions are followed in pool area and identify possible safety hazards and reports to management •Monitor supplies and reports all damaged furniture to management •Perform all other duties as assigned by the Property Manager
Requirements:
•High School Diploma •Must have prior pool/beach supervisory experience •Prior experience at a luxury property or hotel •Life-safety training and certification CPR, AED, First Aid, Water Safety required •Being an excellent swimmer is required period certification may be required •Working with Pool Chemicals is required •Working during inclement weather •Hands on knowledge of non-motorized sports equipment set-up and handling is required •Cleaning and skimming pools is required •Must be able to stand and work outdoors for an extended period of time •Weekend and flexible shifts are a must •Must have excellent written and oral communication •Must have outstanding customer service and leadership skills •Must be reliable and professional •Must be proficient with computers, including Excel, Word and Outlook. •Must be able to lift 40 lbs. •Must be able to multitask and follow direction. •Must be detailed oriented.
HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: •Ensures maximum compliance and efficiency in the performance of Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas •Carries out the policies and procedures of Housekeeping Departments Standard Operating •Offers assistance to guests and owners, initiates corrective action on complaints of cleanliness and service to guest rooms •Assists in and conducts monthly Housekeeping Inventories as required •Conducts routine guest room and common area inspections.
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Provides inspections scores and retrains for success •Assists in and conducts staff scheduling and annual performance evaluations •Maintains inventory and stock controls •Ensure delivery of service excellence to all guests by monitoring staff performance and provides hands-on training and development •Evaluates and updates Executive Housekeeper on staff performance. Makes recommendations for appropriate action in the areas of disciplinary and commendation •Maintains quality controls and assurance •Assists in overseeing Laundry Department as required in service, quality, inventory, inspection, scheduling and overall performance
Requirements:
•High school diploma •Must have supervised a minimum of 25 employees •Most work tasks are performed indoors and outdoors. Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems •Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 3 hours in length •Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis •Must be able to push and pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis •Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space •Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks •Must have minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language (s) used in the workplace •Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process •Requires excellent communication and grammar skills, both orally and written to communicate well to guests and owners •Must possess basic math and computational ability •Must have basic computer skills in Hotel PMS, Word, Excel and Outlook •Must work weekends and holidays
MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN Responsibilities
•To skillfully and professionally perform all scheduled maintenance related jobs. •Account for time spent on individual works and actively seek further tasks when assigned tasks are completed. •To advise the Engineering Administrator when parts or supplies need to be reordered. •Perform weekly and monthly physical counts of all inventory stock and tooling and requirements. •Other duties as deemed necessary by the Engineering Administrator
Requirements
•Must meet minimum professional qualification/certification in Plumbing/ Electrical/ Mechanical and A/C related trades •Must have minimum of two years hands-on experience working on minor electrical, painting, plumbing and A/C •Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace. •Must work weekends and holidays
LINE POSITIONS FRONT OFFICE AGENT HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT HOUSEMAN LABOURER LAUNDRY ATTENDANT POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT GROUNDSMEN For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc.com. Deadline is December 30, 2015.
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
LIME to bring Superfast Broad Band to North, South Caicos
Before the end of the year LIME customers on North and South Caicos is to get the fastest available internet connection services in the country as the telecoms company is currently in the final stages of outfitting those islands with its Superfast Broadband service. The upgrade, according to Darron Hillaire, LIME’s Marketing and Communications Manager, is on par with its multimillion dollar upgrade on Providenciales, done earlier this year. He said that the upgrade was a result of LIME listening to its customers on those
islands and responding to their wishes. “Paying attention to the feedback and concerns of our customers, LIME has made a MAJOR investment towards service in the islands of South Caicos and key areas in North Caicos - Bottle Creek and Whitby,” he said, saying those customers will now experience the extremely fast internet service available anywhere in the country. “Customers on these islands will now have access to the same level of Superfast Broadband services received by customers in the tourism
and business Mecca, Providenciales. What is even more interesting to note is that this service will take effect before the New Year,” he said. On Friday, July 31, 2015, LIME launched its Superfast 4G LTE service, which it said boasts the fastest broadband internet speed not only in the Turks and Caicos Islands but most of the Caribbean, in what the company described as a revolutionary move in internet connectivity. The Superfast LTE service, according to LIME, is capable of delivering 75 megabits per second speed with the potential to deliver
over 100 megabits per second to households through its fiber optic outfit. The telecoms provider announced the service of undergoing a $10 million investment, which included a total overhaul of its fibre optic platform, which accounted for 30 percent of the financial undertaking. LIME, which means Landline Internet Mobile Entertainment, is which is to be renamed FLOW shortly, is now working on establishing its TV element. At a recent news conference, the media was told that the testing phase has already begun.
Cadet Corps delights in Minister Missick drilling venue intervention
Cadet Corps Members perform an official function during the official opening of the Long Bay High School, located in Long Bay in Providenciales. Members of the Turks and Caicos Cadet Corps are singing the praises of Deputy Premier and
Minister of Education, Youth, Sport and Library Service, Hon. Akierra Missick, whose action they claimed, gave them a place to conduct classroom-style drills. The Corp conducts its outdoor drills on the grounds of the Police Canteen on Airport Road in Providenciales. But it had been looking for a place for class-room drills, but had found it difficult to do so. The fingered the Police Canteen as an ideal place to host those drills, but were denied access, ostensibly by the property’s custodians. The source said that Corps members often expressed that the lack of acquiring a place to conduct such classroom teaching had become
Graceway IGA Supermarket / Kwatcha Holdings are seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the listed positions:
Wholesale Food & Sales Manager Job Requirements & Responsibilities: •Responsible for overall management of product distribution and revenue of sales •Oversee the day to day management of wholesale department personnel to maximize sale productivity •Oversees and manages the Supermarket Food Services wholesale accounts •At least five (5) years Sales or Marketing experience. •Five (5) years Chef Experience. •Good knowledge of wholesale foods, liquor, wines and beers. •Excellent written and verbal communication skills. •Competence in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel. •Good negotiation and interpersonal skills. •Must have a personal vehicle and a valid Driver’s License. •Must have pervious managerial experienced working in a supermarket retail environment •Applicant will be required to work weekends and holidays Salary rate will commensurate with qualification and experience RETAIL FLOOR MANAGER This position is responsible for the management of the supermarket’s retail operations. Main duties and requirements include: •Over eight (8) years experience in Supermarket Retail with a minimum of five years in a managerial position to include management of individual departments. •Strong character reference from known individuals in the supermarket industry •Excellent people skills, including the ability to teach and train staff. •Must have computer knowledge in areas such as Microsoft Excel and Inventory management programs. •Proficient in the understanding of retail and wholesale accounting and good business practices related to documentation and record keeping. •Skilled in ordering methods and practices for inventory control. •Ability to utilize computer systems/information for improved operational results. •Strong current product knowledge of the retail industry and knowledge of Supermarket facility management. •Will be required to work nights, long hours, weekends, and holidays. FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Main responsibilities •Production of financial budgets and forecasts incorporating profit and loss projections, cash flow analysis and capital expenditure estimates. •Direct and control Finance staff to ensure that they are appropriately motivated and trained and carry out their responsibilities to the required standards •Prepare and present financial presentations to the Board of Directors to support investment decisions. •Produce accurate and timely financial information concerning the company’s financial
frustrating for some of it members, and so, they felt compelled to make the public know of their challenges, with a view to get the matter addressed, and were happy they the authorities did tackle the problem. “First, I want to thank The SUN for highlighting the problem, and then we want to thank the Minister who responded almost immediately after the story was published in the paper. She said she did not know that we could not use inside the Police Canteen for our classroom setting teaching. She was really upset about it. After a little over a decade of operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Cadet Corps collapsed in 2011, during the reign of the
United Kingdom-instituted Interim Administration. The official re-launch of the entity took place on Tuesday, October 21, 2014, at the Police Canteen. In attendance at the re-launch were His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham, Her Excellency Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education Youth, Sport and Library Service Hon. Akierra Missick, Minister of Government Support Services Hon. George Lightbourne and Opposition Leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The premier, at the time, encouraged all local interest not to let the corps go dormant again.
status and performance to enable decisions to be taken relating to the company’s financial strength and security •Produce all necessary financial statements and reports to enable the accurate measurement of cash flow, profit and loss, stock and debtors. •Develop and oversee all financial controls, specifically relating to cash and inventory control •Coordinate with bankers, auditors, insurance brokers and attorneys as required •Act as the main point of contact with external auditors and coordinate the production of financial statements in preparation for annual audit. •Carry out any necessary internal audit reviews and monitor the financial effectiveness of systems and controls •Recommend any changes necessary to improve the company’s financial performance and financial controls Knowledge, skills and experience required •Must be a professional qualified accountant (ACA, ACMA or CPA) with a minimum of 8 years of post qualification financial management experience. •Must have advanced knowledge and experience of analyzing day-today retail and wholesale financial accounting and system processes and controls •Experience managing computerized accounting systems, and analyzing financial data is a must •Must have sound managerial experience •Excellent communication skills are required Salary compensation: Subject to experience and qualification FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING MANAGER Job Requirements & Responsibilities: •ACA/ACMA/ACCA/CPA professionally qualified with a minimum of 2 years post qualification experience in a financial analysis/financial reporting position. •Responsible for managing all transactional accounting processes within the Financial Accounting team, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, weekly payroll, cashing-up and sales. •Managing a team of four bookkeepers, ensuring that job responsibilities are being performed in a complete and timely manner as well as employee performance reviews being undertaken on a regular basis. •Responsible for reviewing, correcting and posting all journal entries to the general ledger prepared by members of the Financial Accounting team. •Detailed review and reconciliation of general ledger accounts on a daily basis to ensure accuracy of accounting records. •Comprehensive knowledge of general ledger accounting and the function of financial accounting systems is essential. •Implementing and improving accounting processes and procedures to improve team efficiency and drive profitability of the business. •Weekly reporting of KPIs to senior management and stakeholders. •Ad-hoc finance related projects as required. •Strong written and verbal communication skills essential. •Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple tasks. •Knowledge of SAGE accounting software beneficial. Deadline for submission of applicants is December 20th 2015 Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com
Only short list applicants will be contacted.
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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LOCAL NEWS
The Wesley Methodist School performing a Christmas Song
Fireworks accompanied the lighting of the Christmas Tree
The huge crowd that turned out to see Santa
The Providenciales Christmas Tree
Kiwanis Club of Providenciales Christmas Tree Lighting
The Kiwanis Club of Providenciales staged its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Butterfield Square on Sunday, December 6. As usual, the turnout was massive. In addition to the gifts, the Christmas Tree Lighting is accompanied
by concert involving schools and other uniformed groups. This year the crowd was much more controlled and gift giving was done smoothly. The following are photo highlights of the event.
The Oseta Jolly Primary School performing a Christmas song
The Members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Band entertaining the audience
Children and their parents await the arrival of Santa
Shining Stars excited the crowd with this dance
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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LOCAL NEWS
Santa makes his customary appearance in a fire truck
Children and their parents elated to see Santa
Carol Skippings, Pastor for the Church of God of Prophesy in the Bight
Digicel was on hand to make a number of giveaways
Deputy Premier Hon. Akierra Missick switches on light
This female member of the audience won minutes courtesy of Digicel after answering question correctly
The Enid Capron Primary School in performance
Children with their eyes aglow collect their gifts from Santa
The Ianthe Pratt Primary School ignited the crowed with this creative dance
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
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LOCAL NEWS
Enid Capron Primary School’s Christmas Extravaganza 2015 By Todeline Defralien
The Enid Capron Primary School held its Christmas Extravaganza last week Friday December 4th, 2015 at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex under the patronage of ‘Mama’ Hilda Robinson. This year the event was hosted under the theme “From Our Hearts To Yours”. The event saw attendance of hundreds of kids all over Providenciales and parents attending the event as well. Principle Sophia HamiltonGarland told The SUN, “The Acting Principal, staff and students of the End Capron Primary School, deems it gives great pleasure to be able to share such small, kind gesture with Mrs. Hilda Robinson one of our
community supporters. Our school’s mission is to ensure that the school and community are fused and allow more persons to become involved in the schools life and promote its growth.” She added: “The theme “From Our Hearts To Yours” was fitting as we can never truly repay her for the time and effort she put into our school’s growth. Mama is someone who continues to pray for and with the staff and is a person we can go to when we really need a good word of encouragement. She is truly a gift from God to our school and we continue to experience her legacy in the actions portrayed by her son Mr. Phill Robinson and his family presently.” The SUN captured these photographs of the event.
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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LOCAL NEWS
Providenciales TCI Shines
The Annual TCI Shines, a spruce-up initiative of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association, took place on Saturday, December 5, 2015. In addition to the tourism Mecca of Providenciales, clean-up campaigns were staged on North Caicos and South Caicos. The SUN was on hand to capture the cleanup campaign on Providenciales.
Members of the Turks and Caicos Real Estate took time from their Leeward Highway cleanup work for a snapshot
Dr. Carlton Mills, Principal for Long Bay High, was among the workers on Venetian Road clean-up crew
Beth Atkins of the Real Estate Association, giving the Leeward Highway a facelift
Two members of the Filipino Community seem to be taking some level of pride as they clean the Leeward Highway
Reigning Miss Turks and Caicos, Shanice Williams, who is employed at Gansevoort is pictured with Alfonso Palatino, Head of the Filipino Community as they clean the Leeward Highway
The Sands and Gansevoort team up to clean the Leeward Highway
Debbie Mills, Principal for the MILLS Institute doing her part of the clean up along Venetian Road
Venetian Road clean-up
A mother and Daughter Gansevoort team cleaning the Leeward Highway
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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HEALTHY
LIFESTYLE
Unprotected sex more common among young gay, bi men with detectable HIV New strategies to reduce risky sexual behaviors among young gay and bisexual men with human immunodeficiency virus may be needed to reduce new infections, according to a new study. Researchers found that most young gay and bisexual men with HIV don't have the virus suppressed by medication, making them more likely to infect others, and more than half reported recent unprotected sex. While medications for HIV and access to those treatments improved over time, lead author Patrick Wilson said addressing unemployment, education and mental health is also important. "I think we have to take a multipronged approach," said Wilson, of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health in New York City. Gay and bisexual men represent about 2 percent of the U.S. population, but accounted for about 67 percent of all people diagnosed with HIV in 2014, according to the HIV Surveillance Report released on Sunday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The steepest rise in HIV diagnoses between 2005 and 2014 was among young gay and bisexual men,
with increases ranging from 56 percent among young white men to 87 percent among young black and Latino men. Wilson and his colleagues write in JAMA Pediatrics that understanding factors related to sexual risk among people with detectable HIV levels can guide prevention and treatment efforts. For the study, they surveyed 991 HIV-positive gay and bisexual males aged 15 to 26 years at 20 U.S. clinics from December 2009 through June 2012. Of those men, about 69 percent were not virally suppressed, meaning there are detectable levels of HIV in their blood and that increases the risk of transmitting the virus to someone else through unprotected sex and other forms of exposure. "Other studies that look at HIV-infected youth show low levels of viral suppression, but this was the lowest rate of viral suppression we could find," said Wilson. Of those with detectable HIV levels, about 55 percent said they had had anal sex without a condom in the last three months, compared to about 44 percent among HIV-positive respondents with undetectable viral loads. About 35 percent of survey
Dominican Republic's top court reinstates total abortion ban
respondents with detectable HIV levels also said they had had condomless sex with HIV-negative partners, compared to 25 percent of those with undetectable HIV levels. Black survey respondents with detectable HIV levels were less likely to report having had condomless sex or condomless sex with an HIV-negative partner than others who were not virally suppressed. Employed respondents with detectable HIV levels were also less likely to report condomless sex, compared to unemployed respondents. Wilson noted that the participants, recruited in clinics, were all somehow linked to healthcare, and approaches to addressing HIV need to extend beyond patients and doctors. "I think that we can’t take a siloed approach in how we think and respond to HIV," he said. "I don’t think it ever was simply a public health issue. It’s an issue that has to do with housing, incarceration, healthcare access, behavior skills and provider training." In results presented today at the 2015 National HIV Prevention Conference in Atlanta, the CDC showed that more healthcare providers are aware of Gilead's anti-HIV drug known as Truvada, which is used as pre-
exposure prophylaxis - or PrEP - and can prevent uninfected people from becoming infected. If taken correctly, the CDC says the pill can reduce the risk of an uninfected person becoming HIVpositive by over 90 percent. About 64 percent of surveyed providers knew of the drug, and about 65 percent were willing to prescribe the daily pill to gay and bisexual men. Another survey presented at the same conference by the CDC found that about 71 percent of gay and bisexual men knew of PrEP, but those aged 18 to 24 years were least likely to be aware of the drug. "The analysis found, however, that knowledge is strongly associated with use – and it appears that education about PrEP may be one of the key factors to ensuring younger men can gain access to PrEP," CDC said in a statement to Reuters Health. Wilson told Reuters Health that people can't put all their hopes in medical technologies to end the HIV epidemic, though. "It’s not just about having access to medication, it’s about addressing the other issues which tend to be more social and structural in nature," he said.
Norovirus confirmed in Boston students who ate at Chipotle
A number of Boston College students sickened after eating at a A decision by the Dominican to seek out unsafe abortions because Republic's constitutional court to they are denied access to safe and legal Chipotle Mexican Grill were affected by norovirus, the Massachusetts reinstate a total ban on abortion is medical treatment." putting women's lives at risk, rights Bishops from the country's Department of Health said, confirming groups said. influential Roman Catholic Church that the source of the outbreak was Reforms last year to amend have publicly criticized moves to different from the one causing a spate of illnesses in several states. the country's criminal code to allow overturn the abortion ban. Chipotle has been under abortion in cases of rape, incest, a Rights groups say blanket bans deformed fetus or when a woman's life on abortion are a leading cause of scrutiny since November, when it was is in danger, were passed by congress maternal mortality because they first linked to an E. coli outbreak that and approved by President Danilo force women to undergo dangerous has sickened 52 people in nine states. The burrito chain said on Monday it Medina. backstreet abortions. The reforms, a result of years Sergia Galvan, spokeswoman had temporarily closed the restaurant of debate over the abortion ban in the for local rights group, the Women and in Boston's Cleveland Circle where the predominantly Catholic and socially Health Collective, said the court's students had eaten. conservative Caribbean country, were decision "continues to place Dominican Shares of the burrito chain were up set to take effect on Dec. 27. women, even those who long to be 1.2 percent at $549.01 in afternoon But after an appeal by religious mothers, in a dilemma - to die or go to trading. "Since late Sunday evening, and conservative groups who said the jail - when they require health services, more than 120 Boston College students country's laws and constitution must such as abortion". protect the rights of an unborn child at The Dominican Republic's have reported to Boston College Health all costs, the court on Wednesday ruled absolute ban on abortion has led to Services with symptoms consistent changes to the criminal code dating more than 90,000 unsafe abortions with the norovirus," Boston College back to 1884 were unconstitutional. occurring in the country each year, "This decision takes women's and girls' according to the U.S.-based Center for human rights back to the 19th century," Reproductive Rights. Erika Guevara, America’s director Other countries in Latin at Amnesty International, said in a America and the Caribbean that statement on Thursday. completely ban abortion with no "Its impact will be catastrophic explicit exceptions include Chile, El for women and girls in the Dominican Salvador, Suriname, Honduras and Republic who will continue to be Nicaragua, according to the Center for criminalized, stigmatized and forced Reproductive Rights.
spokesman Jack Dunn said. The students have also been tested for E. coli, but results are awaited, he said. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is spread by contaminated food, improper hygiene, and contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea and incubation can occur between two and eight days. The E. coli outbreak last month was the company's third food safety incident since August. It has raised concerns about potential reputational damage to the fast-growing brand that has won a loyal following for its food made with fresh produce, meats raised without antibiotics and ingredients that are free of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs. In August, Norovirus was blamed for sickening nearly 100 people at a Chipotle restaurant in Simi Valley, California.
Teva gets FDA approval for cancer drug Israel's Teva Pharmaceutical Industries said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved an injectable and infusion version of its cancer drug bendamustine. The drug, sold under the brand name Bendeka, is approved
for treating cancer patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Teva, which has licensed the drug from Eagle Pharmaceuticals Inc, is responsible for all U.S. commercial activities for Bendeka.
A logo of Chipotle Mexican Grill is seen on a store entrance in Manhattan, New York
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FUN & GAMES
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 31
LOCAL NEWS Digicel brings Christmas cheer to Doris Robinson Primary and Middle Caicos community The community of Middle Caicos, especially the students of the Doris Robinson Primary School were nothing but smiles as Digicel brought early Christmas gifts for the children and fun entertainment for the community. Staff members from the nation’s leading telecoms company went bearing gifts for both staff and students of the school and members of the community got the chance to participate in fun games in order to win prizes; all part of Digicel’s annual Christmas celebration with the school, which took place on Tuesday, December 8th, 2015. A tradition now for over 6 years, the annual visit has become something not only students look forward to but also the community in general. The school, which is adopted by Digicel, benefits from a hot lunch programme which ensures that all the students receive a hot lunch every day while at
school. Head of Marketing for Digicel, Trina Adams says, “Digicel is pleased to have an ongoing programme that benefits the students of Doris Robinson throughout the year. Middle Caicos is close to my heart as well, as I spent much time here, with my grandmother, growing up. However, Christmas is extra special, so we make an extra special effort to bring some cheer to these students and they have all grown to expect this of us and we are pleased to always deliver.” Principal of the school, Keisha Mills, said, “We appreciate the work that Digicel continues to do for us on a daily basis, and especially at Christmas, the children are made to feel extra special. The entire community appreciates the gesture.” The Doris Robinson Primary school currently has an enrollment of nine students.
37 Cooper Jack Bay Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Email: principal@precioustreasuresschool.com, Tel: 1-649-941-5186 INVITES applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the following positions for the 2015/2016 academic school year.
TRAINED TEACHER -REGISTRAR & TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT OFFICER Minimum Qualification and Experience
•Associate of Science degree in IT, Education (with an IT Major) or a related area. •Certification in any of the following: oA+ certification, o Linux+ certification, o Microsoft certified IT professional certification, o Cisco certified network associate certification, o International information systems security certification consortium certification; •Proven record of successful supervisory in a people-oriented environment; •At least 3 years of direct experience or 5 years in a related area; •Demonstrated understanding of the application of technology to deliver Records and Registration services; •Previous experience working with an international curriculum would be an asset; •A proven record in working successfully with diverse populations; •A positive attitude and ability to plan and adapt to change; •Ability to collaborate effectively with college departments and cross-functional teams; Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. TRAINED TEACHER SECONDARY LEVEL:
emphasis on Early Childhood Education; At least five years’ experience in similar position Possess strong abilities in 21st century teaching methodologies Possesses mature, caring and loving disposition Clean police clearance certificate Willing to work long hours and on public holidays Must be computer literate
Salary commensurate with experience and qualification
PRIMARY:
TRAINED PRIMARY TEACHERS GRADES 1-6
Qualification must include but not limited to the following:
A minimum of First Degree or equivalent in educational studies Appropriate Teacher training qualifications Possess strong abilities in 21st century teaching methodologies At least three years’ experience in similar position Possesses mature, caring and loving disposition Clean police clearance certificate Willing to work long hours and on public holidays Must be computer literate
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
ANCILLARY:
Qualification must include but not limited to the following:
CLEANER:
Master or equivalent in educational studies & development Appropriate Teacher training qualifications Output driven Possess strong abilities in 21st century teaching methodologies At least Five years’ experience in similar position Possesses mature, caring and loving disposition Clean police clearance certificate Willing to work long hours and on public holidays Must be computer literate
-Person will be responsible to keep classrooms and Toilets clean at all times -Be willing to work until late evenings and on non-school days if required -Person will be responsible to maintain school surroundings and do minor repairs and maintenance. -Salary $5.50 per hour
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications TRAINED PRESCHOOL TEACHER:
A Teaching Diploma or Degree from a recognized institution with
COOK: -Person will be responsible to prepare daily lunches for the Students and Teachers -Candidate must possess a valid driver’s License. Applications should be submitted to the HR Department no later than December 15th 2015: P.O. Box 293, 37 Cooper Jack Bay Road, Providenciales.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
PDA Leader Oswald Skippings concerned about Police Force basis. There needs to be recognition and embracement of existing talent and long term and committed service within its ranks. Moreover, there There seems to be no end in needs to be an elimination of the unfair sight for the seemingly methodical and bias system of promotion within dismantling of the Royal Turks and the ranks of the force which also began Caicos police force which began from the interim administration and during the recent British Interim continues to date. Administration. While crime is on the increase, While there are committed, there seems to be little forward hardworking police officers who are thinking that is being done to prevent, desirous of seeing the force improve manage or solve crime. In spite of the and become a more effective and fact that there may be ten thousand productive entity in protecting the people in the nation’s capital on any people and preventing and solving given day when the cruise ships are crime, there seems to be little if any in, there is a constant depletion of light at all at the end of the tunnel police officers in Grand Turk to the in terms of the force getting the kind extent that the force is now only 23 of attention needed to make these in strength. In fact, there were about desires a reality. eight transfers a weeks or so ago and The increasingly challenging there is a continuous transfer program job of our police force demands still going on almost weekly. Instead skills that can only be obtained by of the four shift schedule, there is now professional ongoing training which is a three shift schedule in Grand Turk not forthcoming. Among other things, because of the shortage of officers. the force needs up to date equipment Frustration among officers and facilities to deal with the nature in the Nation’s capital is mounting and frequency of crime that are now and reports are that both the CID plaguing our communities on a daily and Drug Squad in Grand Turk have by Oswald Skipping
Leader of the Progressive Democratic Alliance
been closed down since 2012 resulting in young and inexperienced officers being burdened with having to deal with every type of crime in that island. In spite of the fact that there are officers from the UK and elsewhere who get up to $3,000 monthly for accommodation plus other allowances, there are reports that officers are now being transferred to Provo and given only $650 which is essentially a loan which they are required to pay back. If that is the case this is exploitation and it is unfair that officers are being transferred by the department and yet have to pay their own expenses, not even getting accommodations or essentials as power and water paid for. This sort of treatment could be extremely stressful and frustrating especially to young officers and female officers. This government is of no use to its people and seems totally out of touch with the oppression and abuse of our people. Furthermore, they don’t seem to understand why the machinery of government is not working and consequently there is a social break down in our communities
HELP WANTED Position: Housekeeper Salary: $5:00 per hour Stay: In Position for Housekeeper Full time positions for housekeeper, responsibilities include cleaning, gardening, laundry, ironing, looking after pets, minor repairs. Some medical knowledge, late hours. Must love animals Employer: Deborah Aharon 649 432-0605
TAYLOR’S VARIETY STORE SEEKS 4 DOMESTIC WORKERS Must work on holidays and weekends Salary $6.25 per hour 1 SALES CLERK Salary $6.50 per hour 4 LABOURERS Salary $6.25 per hour 1 Sales Manager Salary $15.00 per hour 1 Security Guard Salary $8.00 per hour Contact 649-232-1199
Maranatha Academy
(a Seventh-day Adventist Institution) seeks suitable candidate to fill the position of Janitor. This individual must be able to work Mondays through Fridays. Salary is $6.25 per hour. Duties include cleaning and general maintenance of the school grounds. Applications can be sent to contact@maranathahigh.com or call the school at 946-4385.
WANTED SCUBA INSTRUCTORS!!!
For all your advertising needs Contact (649)-339-5879 or email: sun@suntci.com COCO PALMS BAR
Five Cays, Providenciales Seeks 1 Waitress Salary $200 per week 5 days per week Contact 432-8509
Must be fit and healthy love diving, fishes and crazy signs!! Any interested parties please contact: jobs.turkoise@seafaridiving.com
Oswald Skippings Leader of the Progressive Democratic Alliance and crime is on the rise. If there is any sense of responsibility and care for our people and country, this PNP administration would resign forthwith and allow the Turks and Caicos people to elect a caring and competent government to rescue of people and save our country from the mess it is in.
DATABASE DESIGNER We are looking to recruit a talented Database Designer whose responsibilities will be developing and maintaining digital libraries, including all necessary logical and physical design elements. The successful candidate must have strong design skills and strong technical experience in working with system infrastructures •A Degree in design or closely related fields. •Experienced usage with billing, tracking, invoicing and client management •Working experience with website development and consultation skills with proficient knowledge of CSS and HTML5 . Edith Cox. 231-3617
TCI STRUCTURES LTD 1 TECHNICIAN • PREPARE STRUCTURAL DETAILS FROM DESIGNER • PRODUCE REBAR SCHEDULES FROM DESIGNER • ANY OTHER DUTIES AS MAY BE ASSIGNED • CERTIFICATE IN COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING • FLUENT IN ENGLISH • MUST HAVE 3 YEARS EXPERIENCE • Salary Offering: $10.00 per hour Closing date for application is the 18th December, 2015 Applications should be emailed to jamtcis@tciway.tc
Fitness Instructor
•Minimum 10 years Pilates teaching experience (of minimum 20 hours/week) •Full Pilates certification through an accredited PMA Pilates organization •Must show active Pilates certification membership •A faculty member of Balanced Body Pilates with the ability to certify Pilates instructors. •Bilingual French/English •Have a valid driver’s license
Contact 332-9227
PROVO DISCOUNT LTD
1 DOMESTIC WORKER • Salary Offering: $5.00 per hour Closing date for application is the 18th December, 2015 Applications should be emailed to pdl@ tciway.tc SADRAE QUALITY CONTRACTING
SEEKS 1 Labourer Salary $6.25 per hour 6 days per week Contact 341-3042
SPARKLE CLEANING SERVICES
For all your advertising needs Contact (649)339-5879 or email: sun@suntci.com
Needed Urgently: Eight (8) Cleaners/Car washers Duties: Washing and detailing automobiles Wages: On a commission basis Qualification: Honest, hardworking, highly motivated, Friendly, must be able to work under minimum supervision and flexible hours, Ability to safely operate motor vehicle. Experience is essential. Closing date for application is 23rd December 2015 Sparkle Cleaning Services Suite 5, Southside Plaza, Five Cays Road, Providenciales Tel: (649)241-0237 Email: carwashguy@hotmail.com
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
CARIBBEAN WORLD
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
NEWS NEWS
Gonsalves’ ULP wins fourth consecutive election in St Vincent and the Grenadines
However, the ULP has called for a recount in two constituencies won by the NDP – North Leeward and South Leeward. In South Leeward, the NDP’s Nigel Stephenson kept his seat, winning 119 votes more than the ULP’s Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Jomo Thomas who secured 2,619 votes; Vincent for a record fourth consecutive term while in North Leeward, the NDP’s KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent Roland Matthews got 2,259 votes, – Dr Ralph Gonsalves will serve as beating newcomer Carlos James of the prime minister of St. Vincent and ULP by just 7 votes. the Grenadines after leading his “We are looking into various Unity Labour Party (ULP) to a fourth issues in North Leeward and South consecutive election victory. Leeward and we are also calling for But predictions of a landslide an immediate recount to ensure that victory in yesterday’s election did not all the votes are counted in those come to pass. The ULP won with the constituencies. There are more rejected same one-seat majority it took in the ballots than the margin and those last election, with eight of the seats ballots should be examined closely to in the 15-seat Parliament. The other determine the intent of the voters,” seven went to the main opposition New Gonsalves said. Democratic Party (NDP) led by Arnhim The prime minister said he Eustace. was humbled by the victory. Both party leaders won their “I am humbled and honoured seats, along with Gonsalves’ son, that the people of St Vincent and the Camillo Gonsalves, who contested an Grenadines embraced our bold vision election for the first time and defeated for the future and rejected the politics the NDP’s Linton Lewis, who is the of hate,” he said. opposition party’s chairman. He got “We ask Vincentians to 3,124 votes to Lewis’ 2,521 votes in the celebrate this victory in peace and East St. George constituency. maturity. Now is the time to come
together as one nation to address our from the previous parliament, two developmental challenges and move newcomers (Camillo Gonsalves and forward to uplift our nation and its St. Clair Prince) from the ULP and people.” Sir Louis Straker who returns to the Election Day featured Central Leeward seat after five years allegations of fraud, levelled by the in retirement. With former Marriaqua NDP even before the polls had closed. MP Girlyn Miguel not seeking re The opposition party said there election, and no female candidates were many irregularities including being successful in the 2015 election, illegal voting, and two different sets of the tenth parliament will have no voters lists. elected women MPs. Also contesting the election but making no real impact were the Democratic Republican Party (DRP) and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Green Party Based on unofficial figures, it is estimated that 65,684 persons cast their votes out of a total electorate of 89,527 people are registered to vote in the election. Turnout was 73.37%. The ULP revived 34,222 votes (52.33% of valid votes), against 30,974 votes (47.37%) for the NDP, The SVGP received 80 votes (0.12%) and the DRP received 153 votes (0.23%). there were 291 rejected ballots (0.44% of ballots cast). Despite the same distribution This electoral map of St. Vincent and the of seats there will be a slight change in Grenadines shows the country literally the face of House of Assembly. The new divided in half in terms of support for the ULP paliament will include 12 incumbents and the NDP
The Bahamas takes illegal migration case to Commonwealth
Dominican student abduction story in Barbados fabricated
VALLETTA, Malta,– The Bahamas has taken its case to deal with the influx of illegal migrants into the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country before the Commonwealth with Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell defending the new policies of the Perry Christie administration. Mitchell recently told the Commonwealth Foreign Ministers that his country last year repatriated nearly 5,000 migrants and that so far this year, the number is close to 4,000. He said most of those repatriated were from the fellow CARICOM neighbour, Haiti, and that the Bahamas is not a difficult country to which to migrate lawfully. “There are job categories in the country where the skills are not available locally and the result is there is significant lawful migration. The issue we face is the unlawful or irregular migration in numbers that threaten to destabilize the country. It has become a question of cultural clashes and more recently a question of national security.” He said there are various interests in the Bahamas and abroad who seek to portray many of the migrants as “helpless victims and many are. “But more recently this is a pattern of a sophisticated criminal enterprise that accepts up to US$5,000 dollars a head depending on whether the journey is to the United States or to us in the Bahamas, using not the old fashioned sloops crowded with people but modern vessels.”
Under the new immigration law that took effect in November last year, the Bahamian government does not accept applications for work permits from persons residing illegally in the country, while legal immigrants must carry their passports at all times. The legislation has been widely criticized, however, with the government having to defend accusations that its stringent migration policies have trampled on the human rights of people, particularly those of Haitian decent. But Mitchell told the foreign ministers here that the “activist community often both at home and abroad stands unwittingly (we hope ) as a convenient cover for those who seek to break the laws on immigration and exploit human suffering for selfish ends. “The issue of unlawful migration has now in some cases surpassed the drug trade as a legal and security problem. Tied up with the smuggling of people, is the smuggling of drugs and trafficking in persons,” he said, adding “all of this impacts a population of 350,000 souls and ties up resources which we can scarcely afford. “My statement today is simply to sensitize the Commonwealth at large to this issue in the Caribbean. We thank the International Organization for Migration for their work in our area. It is important to say however that unless the underlying issues of poverty and economic underdevelopment are resolved in Haiti, this pattern will continue.
An aerial map of the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados The abduction story of a said the police were investigating the Dominican student studying in matter. Barbados has been fabricated, a But in its Monday, December newspaper on that island is reporting. 8 edition the Daily Nation reported The Daily Nation Newspaper that an officer said there was no truth on Monday published a story which to the entire matter. said that some security officers at the The newspaper said the University of the West Indies (UWI), officer pointed out that the incident Cave Hill Campus, “are fuming over was reported because the student what they claim was a concocted “was asked to withdraw from the Cave abduction report made recently by a Hill Campus because of poor academic student.” performance and the need for her The newspaper reported to find an excuse to return home that a security officer, who spoke on prematurely.” condition of anonymity, said the entire The Daily Nation reported matter was made up because of poor that a check was made with a senior academic performance by the student. administrative official at the campus According to reports, the who confirmed “that the student’s student was allegedly attacked grade point average was not up to November 12, 2015, when the student requirement and she has indeed been was walking home after a class. She asked to withdraw.” was reportedly hit at the back of her The newspaper also revealed head with a blunt object and dragged that the student was not allowed to into a bushy area while receiving take further exams and her bus pass injuries in the process. was revoked but “it was discovered It is further alleged that the that she continued to sit in on class student’s arms, legs and mouth were prior to her recent departure.” bound with duct tape and her clothes It went on to say that nonripped apart while she begged her students could walk unhindered attacker not rape or kill her. at Cave Hill and sit in on lectures, On November 17, the Daily unlike other campuses, and since the Nation reported that Chief of Security student was no stranger to faculty, her at the UWI, Cave Hill Campus, Oral presence raised no alarm, despite the Reid, confirmed the incident and fact she was asked to withdraw.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaican dance promoters say they pay police big bucks to allow parties to continue
There are fresh complaints from party promoters in the Corporate Area and St Catherine that rogue cops are demanding up to $20,000 to allow events to continue beyond the allowed 2 a.m. cut-off time. According to the promoters of sessions in some inner-city communities, paying off the cops is part of the expected expense to keep a party and they even plan liquor for these policemen and women. “You are having a party and you want it go until daylight, or even past 2 o’clock, you have to be prepared to give the police dem a thing,” said a popular promoter in the Corporate Area. According to the promoter, whose name is being withheld, he spends anywhere between $10,000 and $15,000 to ensure that the cops allow his session to continue beyond the established cut-off time. “By right, the party is supposed to finish at 2 o’clock and everybody get to go home so people can get to go to work in the morning. But the people them not coming out until 2 o’clock. And that is when the police usually want to come and lock down
the party,” said the promoter. He said that in some cases, the amount to be paid is arranged with senior officers at the local police station in his community days before the event. On the day of the event, the officer sends one or two patrolling officers to collect the money. “They know who working that night, so they know who will come and collect the money. And they know how them share it up,” said the promoter, who, while accepting the illegality of his action, said it was the only way he was able to make a profit from his entertainment events. The promoter said that he was so familiar with members of the leadership of the police in his community that he could arrange the deal for other promoters. “It makes sense because when you spend money and promote your party and at 2 o’clock, when less than 20 people is there, the police come and lock it off, you lose,” he continued, shrugging his shoulders in indifference. Last week, Robert Hill, town clerk at the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC), told our news team that he had heard of the police
collecting money to allow parties to continue after the slated end time allowed by the permit but that this was outside the remit of the municipal body. “I have heard some reports of that, but I have never heard or seen any evidence that it is so,” said Hill. “I have heard only statements, which I have heard over and over, but I have never had any proof of that,” added Hill. Head of the St Andrew North Police Division Superintendent Jacqueline Green said that she had never heard of cops being paid not to shut down parties at the scheduled time. “The Noise Abatement Act states until 2 a.m., so I will stick to the law as it relates to the 2 a.m. lock-off time,” said Green. “No. I have never got that report. We have our list of all the permits that are granted for the division, and the police within the local areas are to monitor and lock off at 2 a.m., failing which they are to take the appropriate action,” added Green. However, our news team recently witnessed two members of the
Significant movement on Baha Mar, says Perry Christie While a significant number of investors continue to show interest in the unopened Baha Mar resort, Prime Minister Perry Christie said the Export Import Bank of China has made significant movement in resolving the $3.5bn hotel’s issues which have caused the ongoing deadlock. According to the Nassau Tribune newspaper, Mr Christie said he was not only optimistic that in the not too distant future Bahamians would receive a significant statement giving an indication of new developments, but that an upcoming Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) conference would be held in Baha Mar’s convention centre. This gathering he said is expected to take place in March 2016. Mr Christie added that he and China Construction America (CCA) – the resort’s general contractor - are “on the same page” when it comes to fully paying Bahamian contractors money owed to them. He explained to reporters yesterday following the morning session of the House of Assembly that he had been guarded with statements concerning Baha Mar because any major developments are up to the EXIM Bank and the receivers, Deloitte and Touche, to reveal. However, he said, he could confirm that Bahamian investors, Americans and businessmen out of China, among others, have expressed interest in the West Bay Street mega resort. “I have had, on my trip from London, a very long and
involved telephone conference with the president of the bank in China,” Mr Christie said. “We discussed the significant number of investors who had come forward from China. They include major construction companies, engineering companies, communication subsidiaries, equity funds (and) some very significant lawyers who have made visitations to The Bahamas to look at the property.” He said the bank continues to meet with major potential investors who then would request a meeting with the government. “There is significant movement. I continue to strongly advocate the resumption of construction in the shortest possible time. I continue to believe that that will happen. I continue to advocate that all Bahamian contractors should be paid in whole. I, notwithstanding commentary in the newspaper from former directors of Baha Mar, continue to believe at this stage that that has to happen and that it will. “I have argued strongly for those young workers in particular who were categorised at 2,000 in number who were made redundant that we must move quickly. “There is one additional bit of information that I must tell you is that the InterAmerican Development Bank conference is being held in March in the Bahamas with a large number of people coming. I expect and fervently hope that the convention facilities at Baha Mar will be used to facilitate that convention because you need more than
the Melià (Nassau Beach Hotel) ballroom. You need any number of facilities for such a conference. “In short, I am anticipating that in the not too distant future you will have a significant statement giving an indication of what I am talking about.” He added: “I have spoken with the construction company as well with a view to just confirming that we are on the same page and happily for me the construction company has taken the view that they must pay their contractors.” Last month, new developments concerning the resort prompted stakeholders to ask a Supreme Court judge for an adjournment of a windingup petition until February 2016. Baha Mar filed for bankruptcy in a US court in June, however, the cases relating to the resort’s Bahamian companies were eventually thrown out of the American court. In response to the bankruptcy filing, the government filed a winding up petition against the resort in the Supreme Court. In September, the Supreme Court approved the appointment of joint provisional liquidators to oversee the resort. Then, in October, the Supreme Court granted the Exim Bank’s request to appoint Deloitte and Touche as receivers. Baha Mar was first expected to open in December 2014 and then missed a subsequent opening date in March 2015. An opening for early May was then planned; however that target was also missed.
Jamaican people partying force allowing a Corporate Area dance to continue beyond the 2 a.m. cut-off time after a private meeting with the promoter. In this instance, the cops arrived at the party shortly after 3 a.m. and ordered the selector to shut down the music. As is common at such events, the selector summoned the promoter, who then escorted the cops out of the venue. Minutes later, the promoter returned and instructed the selector to turn the music back on, allowing the party to continue until daylight. This occurred in the St Andrew South Police Division, and head of the division, Senior Superintendent Richard Stewart, later admitted that he had heard of policemen being bribed by party promoters.
Human rights group denounce continued detention of Haitian NASSAU, Bahamas – The Grand Bahama Human Rights Association (GBHRA) has called on the regional and international community to join in the call for the “immediate release of Jean Mary Justilien” who remains in custody despite being freed by a court. The GBHRA, which has been waging a campaign against Bahamas new immigration laws, deeming it unconstitutional and a breach of basic human rights, said that earlier this week, Magistrate Andrew Forbes ruled that the charge of illegal entry brought by the Bahamas Immigration Department against Justilien was without merit. “He was found innocent and faces no other accusations of wrongdoing, yet he continues to be held at Her Majesty’s Prison or some other location in violation of his fundamental human rights,” the GBHRA said. It said that Justilien, a Haitian, has been falsely imprisoned since June, when he was shot in the back of the head during an immigration raid on the island of Eleuthera. It said that the authorities claimed at the time that he had attacked and tried to disarm officers, being accidentally shot in the face during the struggle. However, an official medical report confirmed that he was indeed shot from behind as claimed by witnesses on the scene. “While in custody, Justilien was subjected to cruel and inhuman conditions, as well as assault and battery at the hands of officers. Based on recent comments by law enforcement officials, the GBHRA believes he may be in real danger of reprisals from certain officers as long as he remains incarcerated. “His current treatment is a gross violation of the fundamental tenets of our legal system, which holds that individuals are innocent until proven guilty and that the state cannot detain people without cause,” the GBHRA said, urging the regional and international community “to join us in demanding the immediate release of this innocent man in the strongest and most urgent of terms.” The authorities here have not yet commented on the allegations.
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PANCAP optimistic about ending HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030 GEORGETOWN, Guyana,– The Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV & AIDS (PANCAP) says the world including the Caribbean region is now “very optimistic” about ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030. In a message to mark World AIDS Day, PANCAP said that this year’s theme “Ending the AIDS epidemic as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”, is aligned to the new PANCAP Vision – An AIDS Free Caribbean and reminds the region of the need to retain the HIV response within the post 2015 global agenda. World AIDS Day is observed on December 1. PANCAP said earlier this year countries had the opportunity to adopt 17 goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda (SDA). Each goal has specific targets to be achieved over the next 15 years. Three of these goals are relevant to the agenda PANCAP is currently pursuing, namely Good Health and Wellbeing; Gender Equality; and Peace, Justice and Institutions. PANCAP said that it acknowledges that achieving the SDGs requires the involvement of governments, the private sector, faith based organisations, youth, civil society organisations including key affected populations and every one of us. “The Caribbean is playing a leadership role in ensuring that HIV and AIDS are retained as key issues on the Post-2015 Development Agenda and in raising awareness of the importance of a holistic, comprehensive approach to health and is therefore aligned to SDG3 – Good Health and Wellbeing.” It said the Caribbean Regional Strategic Framework on HIV and AIDS (CRSF) 20142018 “reminds us that in addition to addressing the social determinants of health, and, of HIV in particular, the critical policy and programmatic nexus between HIV and non-communicable diseases is a growing concern. “This is particularly salient in light of the demographic transition facing countries, which is evident in the growing number of persons living with HIV, who also have chronic diseases, and in young adults who have been living with HIV since birth and who must now navigate the dual challenges of adolescence and HIV.” The PANCAP Justice for All programme, led by the United Nations Special Envoy for HIV in the Caribbean, places emphasis essentially on the elimination of HIV-related discriminatory practices, especially as they related to key populations, such as gay men and other men who have sex with men, sex workers, and genderbased violence and child abuse. “In this regard, the Caribbean must continue the dialogue on HIV and human rights within the context of SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Institutions. “The world including the Caribbean region is now very optimistic about ending the epidemic by 2030. This optimism is based on the establishment of the UNAIDS Global targets 9090-90: 90% of persons living with HIV tested and know their status, 90% of those diagnosed with HIV retained on treatment, and 90% on those on treatment achieving viral suppression (with undetectable viral loads), requisite to ending AIDS by 2030.” PANCAP said that achieving an AIDS Free Caribbean requires greater commitment from everyone. “It requires advocacy for our governments and private sector to commit to increased domestic investment for national responses including civil society’s. “It requires our regional development partners to advocate with our donor partners to continue to provide resources to assist our countries to achieve the ambitious global targets 90-90-90. And it requires our collective will,” PANCAP added.
U.S., Cuba to negotiate billions in claims against each other
Cuban and U.S. officials will begin to untangle one of the most complex obstacles to normalization of relations between the two countries: the claims of Americans whose property was nationalized after the 1959 revolution and Cuban counterclaims for damages caused by the U.S. trade embargo. The talks in Havana are the latest in a series of bilateral meetings since the two former Cold War adversaries restored diplomatic ties in July this year. Some 5,913 U.S. corporations and individuals have been awarded $1.9 billion worth of claims for factories, farms, homes and other assets that were nationalized in Cuba after Fidel Castro’s rebels came to power on Jan. 1, 1959. Those claims, registered with the U.S. Justice Department’s Foreign Claims Settlement Commission, are now worth roughly $8 billion when including 6.0 percent annual
interest. Cuban law ties the settlement of the claims to U.S. reparations for damages resulting from the embargo and other acts of U.S. aggression against Cuba. Cuban estimates of that damage range from $121 billion to more than $300 billion. Neither side is eager to pay the full value, setting up a negotiation. “The meeting is the first step in what we expect to be a long and complex process, but the United States views the resolution of outstanding claims as a top priority for normalization,” the U.S. State Department said in a statement on Monday. Cuba nationalized all foreign businesses and reached settlements with owners from other countries. The government recognizes the U.S. claims but it cut off negotiations in response to the decision by former President Dwight Eisenhower to suspend
Cuba’s sugar quota in 1960. The claims sat dormant for half a century as a result of the U.S.-Cuba estrangement, which ended a year a ago when U.S. President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro announced detente. Many of the nationalized companies no longer exist and individual claims have been passed to heirs. The largest claim, by the Cuban Electric Company for more than $267 million, has changed hands several times due to mergers and acquisitions and is held by Office Depot, itself a takeover target of Staples Inc pending antitrust review. With interest that claim is now worth more than $1 billion. Other major claimants include Starwood Hotels, CocaCola, the former International Telephone & Telegraph Co., now ITT Corp, and various oil, sugar and financial interests.
Two charged with trafficking Venezuelan women in Trinidad
The reputed owner of a hotel in Trinidad that has been raided on several occasions, and one of her employees have been charged in connection with human trafficking. Businesswoman Sandy Bedase-Andrews, who runs the Santa Maria Hotel in Chaguanas, central Trinidad, and hotel worker Eli Sylvester appeared in court yesterday, charged under the Trafficking in Persons Act, 2011, for harbouring and receiving two Venezuelan women who were rescued by the Ministry of National Security’s Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) last month. Bedase-Andrews is
also charged under the Sexual rescued 26 trafficking victims Offences Act for keeping a brothel, since it was established in while Sylvester was also charged January 2013. for assisting in the management of a brothel. Authorities arrested the two after receiving information from the Venezuelan Embassy, a statement from the CTU said. They face heavy fines and heavy prison terms if found guilty. Under the Trafficking in Persons Act, anyone found guilty of an offence is liable to a minimum fine of TT$500,000 (US$78,585) and at least 15 years in prison. An offence under the Sandy Bedasie-Andrews (left) being Sexual Offences Act is punishable escorted out of court after appearing on by imprisonment for five years. charges of human trafficking and running The CTU said it has a brothel
Jamaica: Sex video on phone caused woman to lie to police A young woman found herself on the wrong side of the law after she reportedly went to the police and told them that she was robbed of her phone in an attempt to get back her boyfriend’s phone which she claimed had sexual videos of her. The phone in question was handed over to the police in the aftermath of an attempted robbery. The 21-year-old accused, Chevelle Hall, is charged with creating public mischief and is scheduled to return to court on January 17, after her bail was
extended. According to the police report, on October 28 Hall went to the Constant Spring Police Station and reported that she was walking along Constant Spring Road when a motorcycle with two men aboard rode up and the pillion rider grabbed her phone. On that same day, a case of assault was reported and the phone was handed over by the complainant after her attacked left it behind. In that case the culprit, who was on a motorcycle with
another man, reportedly tried to take away the woman’s handbag but during the tussle he dropped his phone and sped off leaving it. Following an investigation, it was revealed that one of the men was Hall’s boyfriend. Hall later confessed that that she had lied and that her boyfriend had called and told her that he had lost the phone and that she had called it and a strange person had answered. “Officer me lie when me report seh me get robbed but the reason why me lie still is because me have a sex video on it.”
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North Korea has hydrogen bomb, says leader
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Thursday appeared to say his country has developed a hydrogen bomb, a step up from the less powerful atomic bomb, but the United States and outside experts were skeptical. Kim made the comments as he toured the Phyongchon Revolutionary Site, which marks the feats of his father who died in 2011 and his grandfather, state founder and eternal president, Kim Il Sung, the official KCNA news agency said. The work of Kim Il Sung “turned the DPRK into a powerful nuclear weapons state ready to detonate a selfreliant A-bomb and H-bomb to reliably defend its sovereignty and the dignity of the nation,” KCNA quoted Kim Jong Un as saying. DPRK are the initials of the isolated North’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. A hydrogen bomb, also known as a thermonuclear bomb, uses more advanced technology to produce a significantly more powerful blast than an atomic bomb. North Korea conducted underground tests to set off nuclear devices in 2006, 2009 and 2013, for which it has been subject to U.N. Security Council sanctions banning trade and financing activities that aid its weapons program. In Washington, the White House said it was doubtful that North Korea had developed a hydrogen bomb, but said Pyongyang remained a threat.
it has boasted it had succeeded in the miniaturization of a weapon. If the hydrogen bomb claim is true, it would indicate advances in the North’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. “I think it’s unlikely that they have an H-bomb at the moment, but I don’t expect them to keep testing basic devices indefinitely, either,” said Jeffrey Lewis of the California-based Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. It was possible the North was referring to the technology of boosting the yield of a nuclear device, possibly using fusion fuel, Lewis said. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un North Korea claimed in 2010 “At this point, the information China was dedicated to ensuring that it had successfully developed that we have access to calls into serious the denuclearization of the Korean fusion technology. question those claims, but we take very peninsula and resolving problems Nuclear expert David Albright, seriously the risk and the threat that through talks. head of Washington’s Institute for is posed by the North Korean regime “We hope that all sides can do Science and International Security, in their ambitions to develop a nuclear more to ameliorate the situation and said there had been concerns for several weapon,” White House spokesman make constructive efforts to maintain years that North Korea has been Josh Earnest told a regular briefing. peace and stability on the peninsula,” pursuing thermo-nuclear weapons. The U.S. State Department ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying However, any such device it repeated a call on North Korea told a daily news briefing when asked might be working on would be cruder to comply with its international about Kim’s remarks. and more old-fashioned than the obligations and abandon all nuclear Impoverished North Korea classical H-bomb and would require weapons. and rich, democratic South Korea larger nuclear tests than North Korea An official at South Korea’s remain technically at war after their has yet conducted. intelligence agency told Yonhap news 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not “I am skeptical that they could agency there was no evidence that the a treaty. The North has threatened to have succeeded by now,” he said. North had hydrogen bomb capacity, destroy the South and its major ally, Assessing progress of North and believed Kim was speaking the United States, in a sea of flames. Korea’s nuclear program is particularly rhetorically. Despite the underground tests, difficult because no one outside a close The Foreign Ministry in outside experts suspect the North is circle of leaders and experts knows China, North Korea’s most important short of achieving the capability to put a what advances have been made. economic and diplomatic backer, said nuclear warhead on a missile, although
More than 800,000 claimed asylum in Europe in first nine months of 2015 A total of 812,705 people claimed asylum in the European Union in the first nine months of 2015, data from the EU statistics agency Eurostat showed on Thursday, putting it on course to top a million for the year. More than half arrived in the summer months of July, August and September, reaching 413,815 for the third quarter. Partial data for October showed more than 130,000 claiming asylum that month. In all of 2104, 626,065 people claimed asylum in the EU.
Preliminary data shows roughly 140,000 refugees entered Europe in October and November. The Eurostat data complement figures from other agencies, such as the EU’s Frontex, which measures the number of irregular crossings it detects on the bloc’s external borders, and U.N. agencies which measure migrant arrivals in Europe. Facing the biggest influx of people since World War Two, EU leaders have been divided in their responses, threatening the cohesion of
the bloc and its open internal border Eurostat data showed 80 system. percent of Iraqis and 75 percent of Just over one in four Syrians were granted asylum as applicants, or 108,305, in the third were 62 percent of Eritreans in the quarter made claims in Germany, just third quarter. That compares with 99 a couple of hundred more than claims percent of Albanians being refused made in Hungary, which responded to refugee status, 96 percent of Kosovars the influx in the summer by fencing off and 77 percent of Nigerians in the its border with non-EU Serbia. same period. About a third of all applicants, Germany rejected half of or roughly 138,000, in the third quarter applicants, France said “no” to 74 said they were Syrian, with Afghans, percent, Italy to 60 percent and Britain at 57,000, and Iraqis, at 44,000, the to 63 percent in the July-September next largest groups. period.
Three Islamic State leaders killed in recent strikes
The U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria has killed the group’s finance minister and two other senior leaders in air strikes in recent weeks, a U.S. military spokesman said on Thursday. Army Colonel Steve Warren told a Pentagon briefing coalition strikes had killed Abu Salah, Islamic State’s financial minister, in late November. “He was one of the most senior and experienced members of ISIL’s financial network and he was a legacy Al Qaeda member,” Warren said.
Warren said Salah was the third member of the finance network who had been killed in as many months. “Killing him and his predecessors exhausts the knowledge and talent needed to coordinate funding within the organization,” Warren added. According to a Brooking Institute report, Abu Salah’s real name is Muafaq Mustafa Mohammed al- Karmoush. Warren said a senior leader responsible for coordinating the group’s extortion activities and another leader who acted as an
executive officer had also been killed. The Islamic State, which the United States calls the wealthiest militant group of its kind in history, has a number of revenue streams. It has built up what amounts to a “durable and resilient financial portfolio,” funded by oil sales, extortion, and sales of antiquities, said Thomas Sanderson, an expert on terrorism at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Recently, U.S. defense officials estimated that Islamic State was earning about $47 million per month from oil sales prior to October.
That same month, the Pentagon started an operation known as “Tidal Wave II” targeting Islamic State’s oil revenue. Warren said it was too early to tell what the impact of the strikes had been and that it was similar to a boxing match. “You work the body in (the) early rounds and maybe you won’t get a knockout from those early round body shots, but several rounds later you’ll see your... opponents knees begin to get weak ... and now he’s beginning to get set up for the knockout,” Warren said.
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Former President Jimmy Carter says he is cancer free
He said he would continue to receive regular doses Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter arrives to speak during an event honoring of pembrolizumab, a new former U.S. Vice President Walter Mondale hosted by the Humphrey School of treatment that is part of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota in Washington October 20, 2015. a promising class of drugs Former U.S. President cancer at all, so I have good that harness the body’s Jimmy Carter delivered news,” Carter told the crowd immune system to fight an unexpected message on at Maranatha Baptist Church cancer. The immunotherapy Sunday to the several hundred in his hometown of Plains, is manufactured by Merck people gathered at a Baptist Georgia, according to a video & Co under the brand name church in Georgia for his Bible from NBC News. Keytruda. lesson - his latest brain scan The former While about 30 percent showed no sign of cancer. Democratic president, known of patients treated with the Carter, 91, started for his unassuming style, drug experience significant treatment in August for offered a quick smile as people shrinkage of their cancer, melanoma that had spread who had come for the Sunday only approximately 5 percent from his liver to his brain. A School class he teaches gasped experience complete remission, previous MRI test showed the and clapped. said Dr. Marc Ernstoff, director four spots of cancer that had In a brief written of the melanoma program at developed on his brain were statement afterward, Carter the Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig responding to treatment, he confirmed his most recent Cancer Institute in Ohio. said. brain scan “did not reveal any On average, the “When I went this signs of the original cancer immunotherapy treatment week, they didn’t find any spots nor any new ones.” extends a recipient’s life
expectancy by a year and a half. “But people that are in complete remission tend to live significantly longer,” said Ernstoff, who is not involved in Carter’s care. Carter, who said after his diagnosis last summer that his fate was “in the hands of God,” has defied expectations before. Critics derided his 1977-1981 presidency as a failure, although he played a key role in negotiation of the 1978 Camp David peace accord between Israel and Egypt. He lost his 1980 re-election bid to Republican Ronald Reagan. But the former peanut farmer built one of the most successful post-White House legacies, winning a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and
remaining active into his ‘90s in causes such as fighting disease in Africa and building homes for the poor. He said in August that his cancer treatment, which has included radiation, would require him to cut back dramatically on his public schedule. But Carter has continued to teach Sunday School classes and participated in at least one Habitat for Humanity home-building event this autumn. In October, he announced he was also working with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s heirs to help mediate their dispute over whether to sell their father’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize medal and the Bible he carried during the civil rights movement.
Chicago mayor says ‘I’m sorry’ for police problems
Mayor Rahm Emanuel, under heavy criticism for his handling of a police shooting that resulted in the death of a black teen, gave an emotional apology on Wednesday hours before angry street crowds demanded his resignation. In a special address to the City Council, the mayor said “I’m sorry” and promised “complete and total reform of the system.” Emanuel’s speech was met with applause from the City Council, but protesters said the city’s actions do not go far enough. High-profile killings of black men by mainly white police officers in Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel listens to U.S. cities have prompted a national remarks at a news conference in Chicago, debate and protests about the use of Illinois, United States, December 7, 2015. excessive force by police. include setting up a task force to With his voice occasionally review police accountability, the breaking, the mayor of the nation’s appointment of a new head of the third-largest city reiterated reform agency that investigates police steps he has already promised. These misconduct and searching for a new
police superintendent. Among the systemic problems with police, Emanuel aimed particular criticism at the “code of silence” that keeps police officers from reporting misconduct by fellow officers. He also has criticized the agency that investigates police misconduct for finding almost all police shootings justified. “We have a trust problem,” Emanuel said. His speech comes after two weeks of protests in Chicago following the release of a 2014 police squad car dashboard video showing police officer Jason Van Dyke shooting 17-year-old Laquan McDonald 16 times. Van Dyke, who is white, was charged with firstdegree murder late last month. Protesters outside City Hall on Wednesday chanted “16 shots and a cover-up,” and called for the resignation of Cook County State’s
Attorney Anita Alvarez, who has been criticized for taking more than a year to charge Van Dyke. One activist was arrested. Said protester Rosemary Vega: “Today, we’re here because we want to see Rahm resign.” Another recently released video shows a man in custody being tasered by police. The U.S. Justice Department said on Monday it will launch a civil rights investigation into the city’s police department, examining its use of force, including deadly force, among other issues. Also on Wednesday, a federal judge said he would rule by Jan. 14, 2016, on whether to release video in the shooting death of another black teen. The mother of Cedrick Chatman, 17, has sued the city over Chatman’s death on Jan. 7, 2013. The city has opposed release of video in the case
Six migrant children die after boat sinks off western Turkey At least six children died State-run Anadolu Agency and eight other people rescued said the coastguard found the on Tuesday after a boat carrying bodies of six children including a migrants bound for Greece capsized baby, adding that the migrants on off Turkey’s western coast near the the boat were Afghans. It was not city of Izmir, local media reported. immediately clear how many people Responding to a distress in all were on board. signal sent at midnight on Monday, A record 500,000 refugees the Turkish coastguard extended from a four-year-old civil war in Syria a search operation into Tuesday’s have traveled through Turkey then daylight hours, Dogan News Agency risked their lives in rickety boats reported. to reach nearby Greek islands this
year, their first stop in the European Union before continuing to wealthier countries in the north and west of the EU. Nearly 600 people have died this year on the so-called eastern Mediterranean sea route for migrants, according to the International Organization for Migration. More than half a million migrants have streamed this year
into Greece, which has become the front line of a massive westward population shift from war-ravaged Syria and conflict- or deprivationplagued countries beyond. Turkey struck a deal with the EU on Nov. 29 pledging to help stem the flow of migrants into Europe in return for 3 billion euros of cash for the 2.2 million Syrians Ankara has been hosting, visas and renewed talks on joining the 28-nation bloc.
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Donald Trump urges ban on Muslims entering United States Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Monday called for a ban on Muslims entering the United States in the most dramatic response by a candidate yet to last week’s shooting spree by two Muslims who the FBI said had been radicalized. “We have no choice,” Trump said at a rally in South Carolina, warning of more Sept. 11-style attacks if stern measures are not taken. Trump’s statement on “preventing Muslim immigration” drew swift and fierce blowback from many directions, including the White House, rivals for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination, Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton and Republican former Vice President Dick Cheney, who said the idea “goes against everything we stand for and believe in.” “Donald Trump is unhinged. His ‘policy’ proposals are not serious,” Republican presidential hopeful Jeb Bush said in a tweet. Other social media reaction led hashtags such as #racism, #fascism and #bigot to trend heavily. Withering reaction also came from Ohio Governor John Kasich, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. Trump, the billionaire developer and former reality TV star who frequently uses racially charged rhetoric, called for a complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States “until our country’s representatives can figure out what is going on.” “Until we are able to determine and understand this problem and the dangerous threat it poses, our country cannot be the victims of horrendous attacks by people that believe only in Jihad and have no sense of reason or respect for human life,” Trump said. Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, asked in an email if the shutdown would apply specifically to immigration or more broadly to student visas, tourists and other travelers to the United States, replied: “Everyone.” In Mount Pleasant, South
: U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a campaign stop in Spencer, Iowa December 5, 2015. Carolina, Trump dismissed his critics. He told a rally that mosques in the United States should also be scrutinized. “We have to see what’s happening,” he said. Trump went farther than other Republican candidates, who have called for a suspension of a plan by President Barack Obama to bring into the United States as many as 10,000 Syrian refugees fleeing their country’s civil war and Islamic State militants. The United Nations refugee agency said such rhetoric was harming that resettlement programme. The International Organization for Migration responded to Trump’s comments by saying any discrimination based on religion went against all international accords on dealing with refugees. Trump’s remarks followed last week’s massacre in San Bernardino, California, by a Muslim couple. The husband, Syed Rizwan Farook, was U.S.born. The wife, Tashfeen Malik, was born in Pakistan and came to the United States from Saudi Arabia. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said on Monday the couple had been radicalized. Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton tweeted that Trump’s idea was “reprehensible, prejudiced and divisive.” Keywords trending on social media after Trump’s
statement included Hitler, shutdown and immigration. But conservative pundit Ann Coulter wrote “GO TRUMP, GO!” on the social media site. Nihad Awad, national executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a Muslim advocacy group, blasted Trump. “This is outrageous coming from someone who wants to assume the highest office in the land. It is reckless and simply unAmerican. Donald Trump sounds more like a leader of a lynch mob than a great nation like ours,” Awad said. White House spokesman Josh Earnest told MSNBC that Trump is “seeking to tap into a darker side, a darker element, and try to play on people’s fears in order to build support for his campaign.” Obama on Sunday night in an Oval Office address called on Americans to be tolerant of fellow citizens regardless of their religion. Trump’s aim is to bolster his position among conservative voters who have kept him atop opinion polls of Republican voters for months, to the point that establishment Republicans fret he could win the nomination and do so poorly in the general election next November that Republicans could not only lose the White House but also control of Congress.
Australian police charge five over plot to attack government buildings Australian police said they had charged a 20-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy with conspiracy to attack government buildings after they were arrested during early-morning raids by counter-terrorism police in Sydney on Thursday. Police told a news conference the potential targets of the plot included the headquarters of the Australian Federal Police in Sydney, Australia’s largest city, as well as randomly chosen civilians. The arrests on Thursday resulted partly from evidence seized during police raids in December 2014, a police statement said.
Three other men, all of them already in custody on terrorismrelated offences, were also charged later on Thursday as part of the same operation. Each of the men - aged 21, 22 and 22 - had been charged with one count of conspiracy to conduct an act in preparation for a terrorist act, the same charges leveled against the two seized in the raids earlier, police said. The men arrested on Thursday had been involved in “formulating documents connected with preparations to facilitate, assist or engage a person to undertake a terrorist act”, it said.
Australia, a staunch ally of the United States and its battle against Islamist militants in Iraq and Syria, has been on heightened alert for attacks by home-grown radicals since last year. “It is disturbing that we continue to deal with teenaged children in this environment,” New South Wales state Police Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn said. “To be putting a 15-yearold before the courts on very serious charges that carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment demonstrates the difficulties law enforcement face,” she said.
Triumphant Venezuela opposition looks to boost economy, free prisoners
Lilian Tintori (centre L), wife of jailed Venezuelan opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, celebrates next to candidates of the Venezuelan coalition of opposition parties (MUD) during a news conference on the election in Caracas, December 7, 2015 Venezuela’s opposition vowed on Monday to revive the OPEC nation’s troubled economy and free jailed political activists after winning control of the legislature for the first time in 16 years of Socialist rule. By Monday evening, some results from Sunday’s election were not yet in, but the Democratic Unity coalition had already won a commanding majority in the 167-member National Assembly, opening a new chapter in the polarized country’s politics. Opposition leaders said final tallies showed they won a two-thirds majority, or at least 112 seats. That would let them flex their muscles against President Nicolas Maduro by shaking up institutions such as the courts and election board, widely viewed as pro-government. There was no confirmation of that from the election board, which had yet to announce the results of 22 legislative contests. Maduro, 53, quickly accepted defeat in a speech early on Monday that calmed fears of violence in a country long riven by political strife. The government was mostly quiet on Monday after voters punished its candidates for an economic crisis that includes shortages ranging from antibiotics to shampoo and steep inflation that is ravaging salaries. “It’s a great opportunity for us, this protest vote,” opposition leader Henrique Capriles said following the win. After securing control of the National Assembly from the “Chavismo” movement, named for late former socialist President Hugo Chavez, opposition leaders quickly set out their priorities. Coalition head Jesus Torrealba said its lawmakers would seek to modify the Central Bank law in an effort to cut back on the amount of money being printed, a key factor in Venezuela having the world’s highest inflation rate. Although it will not have the power to radically the economy from the legislature, the opposition is promising new laws to stimulate the private sector and to roll back nationalizations. It also wants to pass an amnesty law for detained opponents of Maduro when the new assembly begins work on Jan. 5. Venezuela’s best-known jailed politician is Leopoldo Lopez, who was sentenced to nearly 14 years on charges of promoting political violence in 2014 that killed 43 people. But the opposition has a list of what it says are more than 70 other political prisoners. Investors reacted positively to the OPEC nation’s swing away from the radical left, with dollar bonds rising strongly on hopes of businessfriendly change. The election board said early on Monday the opposition had won 99 seats to the Socialists’ 46. With that lead, the opposition will be able to control the budget, open investigations that could embarrass the government and fire ministers. Torrealba has also said the assembly will open an investigation into the arrest of two nephews of Maduro’s wife, caught last month in a sting operation in Haiti and indicted in a New York court on charges of cocaine smuggling. The United States, which has had an acrimonious relationship with Venezuela under both Chavez and Maduro, has long accused the Socialists of complicity in the drug trade, as well as human rights abuses.
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Brazil’s top court suspends impeachment of Rousseff Brazil’s Supreme Court suspended impeachment proceedings against President Dilma Rousseff until it rules on the validity of a secret ballot that stacked a congressional committee with opponents seeking to oust the leftist leader. The ruling provided respite for Rousseff as she struggles to survive splits in her ruling coalition and fend off the effort to unseat her. She is also dealing with a severe recession and a widening corruption investigation at state-run oil company Petrobras that has implicated many of her allies. Rousseff is not under investigation in the kickback scandal. But her former point man in the Senate, Delcidio Amaral, who is in jail awaiting trial on charges of obstructing the Petrobras probe, has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. That could lead to new disclosures involving her ruling Workers’ Party (PT). The decision by a Supreme Court judge late on Tuesday stopped the creation of the impeachment committee until the country’s top court rules on Dec. 16 whether the secret ballot was valid. Justice Luiz Edson Fachin, who was appointed by Rousseff, said the impeachment process had to be suspended to avoid actions that might later be invalidated by the Supreme Court. The ruling could favor Rousseff by curbing the power of her political foe, lower house Speaker Eduardo Cunha, who called a secret ballot to allow wavering members of Rousseff ’s coalition to back a proimpeachment committee without public record. Cunha, who himself faces allegations of corruption, launched the impeachment proceedings last week based on an opposition accusation that the president violated budget laws with accounting tricks employed by her government to allow
Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff gestures during a news conference after a meeting with jurists defending her against impeachment at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil December 7, 2015. ramped up spending during her on Wednesday on whether to re-election campaign last year. investigate Cunha for lying about Rousseff, in office since Swiss bank accounts, which 2011, has denied wrongdoing. She could cost him his seat, but his reiterated that on Wednesday at backers delayed a decision with an event in Boa Vista, a northern an injunction removing the town near the border with committee’s rapporteur. Venezuela where she handed out In Tuesday’s secret low-cost houses. “I did nothing ballot, lawmakers voted 272wrong. There was no graft,” 199 for a committee controlled Rousseff said, adding she was by Rousseff ’s opponents and being impeached for spending too pro-impeachment members much on social programs. of Cunha’s centrist Brazilian Many Brazilians want Democratic Movement Party to see Rousseff go because they (PMDB), the biggest party in her blame her for the worst recession coalition. in 25 years, which is being The tumultuous session deepened by concern over the almost collapsed into chaos country’s political future. during an angry debate over the Brazil came one step secret vote. closer to losing its prized According to Congresso em Foco, investment-grade credit rating a prominent Brasilia watchdog on Wednesday when Moody’s group, a third of the lawmakers Investors Service said it was named on the committee are studying a possible downgrade under investigation by the because of the deteriorating Supreme Court for corruption, economy, widening fiscal deficit money laundering, electoral and increasing risks of political fraud and other crimes. paralysis. The injunction request at Cunha faces several the Supreme Court was filed by accusations of taking bribes on the Communist Party of Brazil, a Petrobras contracts and stashing small but staunch Rousseff ally, millions of dollars in Swiss bank adding to an earlier complaint by accounts. He has denied the the party on the constitutional charges. validity of the impeachment The house ethics request. committee was due to vote
House passes bill to tighten visa waiver program `The House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to tighten restrictions on travel to the United States by citizens of 38 nations who are allowed to enter the country without obtaining a visa. The bill, the second major piece of security legislation approved in the chamber in response to the Nov. 13 Paris attacks, passed by 407 to 19. The measure would require visitors from the visa waiver countries, which include much of Western Europe, to obtain a visa to travel to the United States if they had been to Syria, Iraq, Iran or Sudan during the past five years. It would also require countries participating in the program to share information with U.S. authorities about suspected terrorists or risk being suspended from the scheme. “This legislation will help close gaping security gaps and improve our ability to stop dangerous individuals before they reach our shores,” said Republican Representative Michael McCaul, the House Homeland Security Committee chairman. Twenty million visitors a year enter the United States under the program, which allows them to stay 90 days. It was started in 1986 to boost tourism and tighten the country’s relationship with close allies. Congress has been focused on visa waivers since Paris because some of the militants behind the attacks were Europeans radicalized after visiting Syria. The U.S. Travel Association backed the House bill, rather than a Senate proposal from Democrat Dianne Feinstein and Republican Jeff Flake that would also require the collection of biometric data. The industry group says that could discourage legitimate travelers from visiting the country. Backing for the other security bill passed in the House, tightening screening of refugees from Syria and Iraq, was far more partisan. Just 47 Democrats joined 242 Republicans who voted for it and President Barack Obama, a Democrat, promised a veto. `Debate about border controls has grown more acrimonious since last week’s attacks in San Bernardino, Calif., by a Muslim couple. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump proposed banning Muslims from entering the United States, remarks that drew international condemnation. The Senate has not scheduled a vote on either measure. Both could be included in a trillion-dollar spending bill that Congress must pass in the next few days in order to keep the government open. Obama called on Congress to tighten the visa waiver program in a national security speech to the nation on Sunday night.
Georgia executes man for 1992 killing of his mother’s friend JACKSON, Ga. — A Georgia prosecutors said. Watson told police man convicted of forging checks about the theft but asked them not to belonging to his mother’s friend and pursue charges if most of the money killing the man after he demanded was returned. The day he was to money back was executed, correction return the money, according to the officials said. prosecutors, Terrell had his cousin The execution of Brian drive him to Watson’s house where he Keith Terrell, 47, was carried out shot Watson multiple times. at earlier Wednesday at the state Terrell’s lawyers had said their prison in Jackson, the Department of client was innocent. They argued that Corrections said. Terrell was convicted no physical evidence connected Terrell of murder in the June 1992 killing of to the killing and that prosecutors had 70-year-old John Watson of Covington, used false and misleading testimony a community east of Atlanta. to secure the conviction that drew the Terrell was on parole in death penalty. State lawyers countered 1992 when he stole 10 of Watson’s that the courts had already heard and checks and signed his name on some, rejected the defense arguments.
The U.S. Supreme Court, without explanation, denied a request for a stay about four hours after the 7 p.m. scheduled execution time. On Monday, the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles had denied Terrell’s request for clemency. A state court on Tuesday dismissed a complaint in which Terrell claimed innocence, and the state Supreme Court declined to halt the execution. Terrell also had filed a court challenge saying the state cannot ensure the safety or efficacy of the drug it plans to use to execute him. A federal court on Tuesday rejected that challenge, and Terrell appealed to the
11th U.S. Court of Appeals. Terrell was previously set for execution on March 10, but after Department of Corrections officials discovered solid chunks had formed in the drug that was to be used in another execution on March 2, they temporarily suspended all executions to allow time for an analysis of the drug. The state has said the most likely cause was that the drug was shipped and stored at a temperature that was too cold. The state has taken precautions to prevent that from happening again, state lawyers have said.
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TECHNOLOGY
Facebook service aimed at professionals to launch in coming months
Facebook at Work, Facebook Inc’s (FB.O) professional version of its social network, is expected to launch in the coming months, after spending a year in tests, a company executive said. The new service, geared towards workplace collaboration, is nearly identical to its ubiquitous social network, with a scrolling news “feed”, “likes” and a chat service. “I would say 95 percent of what we developed for Facebook is also adopted for Facebook at Work,” Julien Codorniou, director of global platform partnerships at Facebook, told Reuters. However, Facebook at Work users will maintain special profiles that are distinct from their existing Facebook profiles.
Facebook Logo The company is also developing exclusive products for Facebook at Work, including security tools, Codorniou said. Facebook started beta-testing the service in January and has kept it as a free, “invite-only” service for companies so far. The service will be open to all companies once launched
and Facebook plans to charge “a few dollars per month per user” for premium services such as analytics and customer support, a company spokeswoman said. The online career market, which includes LinkedIn Corp (LNKD.N) and Monster Worldwide Inc (MWW.N), is worth about $6 billion a year, market research firm IDC had
said in August. More than 300 companies, including Heineken (HEIN.AS), Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS.L) and jewelry company Stella and Dot, are using Facebook at Work and Club Mediterranee SA is set to be the latest adopter. The French resort company will offer the service to all its 13,000 employees through summer 2016, Anne Browaeys-Level, Club Mediterranee’s chief marketing & digital officer, told Reuters. Facebook’s Codorniou said almost everything on Facebook at Work is the same as the regular Facebook social network, with some minor exceptions. “You cannot play Candy Crush on Facebook at Work.”
Chipotle sales battered by widening E. coli outbreak A widening U.S. E. coli outbreak has slammed sales at Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc, the company said on Friday, hours after federal authorities reported that people in nine states have now contracted food poisoning. Shares in the popular burrito chain tumbled nearly 8 percent to $518 in extended trading after Chipotle warned that sales at established restaurants could drop 8 to 11 percent for the fourth quarter from a year earlier. This would be the first such decline in company history. Investigators said the outbreak could widen again as local agencies upload data. Chipotle said in a regulatory filing that its sales could take more hits from “further developments, including potential
additional announcements from federal and state health authorities.” The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported related E. coli O26 illness in three new states. Forty-seven of the 52 people sickened say they ate at Chipotle before falling ill. The government investigators added Illinois, Maryland and Pennsylvania to a list of states that already included California, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Oregon and Washington. There were seven more U.S cases, with four of those linked to Chipotle. The company said it has been tightening its food safety procedures. The source of the outbreak is still unknown. Investigators suspect a fresh produce item that was shipped
Madoff trustee begins $1.19 billion payout to victims The trustee liquidating Bernard Madoff ’s firm on Friday began distributing another $1.19 billion to victims of the swindler’s Ponzi scheme. Irving Picard, the trustee, said the payout will boost distributions to more than $9.16 billion. Next week marks the seventh anniversary of the uncovering of Madoff ’s decades-long fraud. Madoff, 77, pleaded guilty in March 2009 and is serving a 150-year prison term. The latest payout will go to holders of 1,071 accounts Bernard Madoff exits the Manhattan federal at the former Bernard L. Madoff court house in New York in this January 14, 2009 file photo. Investment Securities LLC. Picard said he will make less will have been paid in full, the individual distributions ranging trustee said. from $1,298 to $202 million. Picard has recovered or Once they are made, 1,269 of reached agreements to recover the 2,238 Madoff accounts with valid roughly $10.91 billion, about threeclaims will have been fully satisfied, fifths of the $17.5 billion of principal and everyone owed $1.16 million or he has said Madoff customers lost.
from one location to multiple restaurants. Two of the newly reported illnesses started in October, and five started in November, suggesting the outbreak was not as short lived as previously thought. Prior to Friday’s report, the onset of most cases of illness had been in late October. According to the CDC, most people infected with E. coli develop symptoms three to four days after contact with the germ. E. coli infections are spread by oral contact with fecal matter and can cause serious symptoms and even be lifethreatening. Chipotle said its enhanced its food safety efforts include testing all fresh produce before it is shipped to restaurants.
Chipotle spokesman Chris Arnold said in an email that “none of the ingredients that were in our restaurants at the time of this incident are still in our restaurants.” Chipotle and other restaurants have put greater focus on fresh, unprocessed food. While that may be good for nutrition, experts say it raises the risk of foodborne illness because cooking kills pathogens. An estimated 48 million Americans get sick each year from foodborne diseases. Of these, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die, according to the CDC. Only about 40 percent of reported foodborne disease outbreaks from 2002 to 2011 were solved, according to the watchdog group Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Huawei seeks to become world’s third largest data storage provider by 2018 China’s Huawei Technologies Co Ltd [HWT.UL] aims to become the world’s thirdlargest data storage provider by 2018 as it targets European and local institutions to takes market share from leaders EMC Corp and International Business Machines Corp. “We don’t want to just be No.1 in China...We want to be at least the top three in the world by 2018,” Huawei’s storage product line president Fan Ruiqi told Reuters, referring to the global market for data-storage, which was worth $5.3 billion in the second quarter. To grow its market share, Huawei plans to target financial institutions, governments and telecom carriers for data storage, a business Fan said is expected to yield at least 60 percent year-onyear growth this year from 55.6 percent growth in 2014. He declined to reveal revenue figures, but said growth in Western Europe from countries such
as Italy and Spain was particularly strong. Fan expected Huawei’s revenue from data-storage to reach at least $2 billion by 2018. Shenzhen-based Huawei accounted for about a quarter of China’s storage sector in the second quarter, ahead of EMC and IBM, but its global market share is a mere 3.3 percent, far behind EMC’s 32 percent, IBM’s 11.7 percent and NetApp Inc’s 10.6 percent, according to market research firm Gartner. At home, the company provides enterprise data-storage solutions to entities in both public and private sectors such as the People’s Bank of China and e-commerce titan Alibaba Group Holding. Analysts, however, said Dell Inc’s [DI.UL] $67 billion plan to acquire data storage company EMC could disrupt China’s fast-growing storage market and post challenges to domestic players such as Huawei and Lenovo Group Ltd.
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Wal-Mart enters mobile payment with launch of Walmart Pay Wal-Mart Stores Inc (WMT.N) said it would launch ‘Walmart Pay,’ to become the first U.S. retailer to offer its own payment feature to expand consumer payment options and increase the speed of checkouts. `Walmart Pay will be introduced in select U.S. stores on Thursday and in additional stores after the holiday season, Wal-Mart executives said on a video call with reporters on Wednesday. The free service, integrated into the retailer’s app, will be available nationwide by the first half of 2016, the executives said. Walmart Pay will be
available on devices using Apple’s (AAPL.O) iOS or Alphabet Inc’s (GOOGL.O) Android operating system and allows payments with any major credit, debit, prepaid or Walmart gift cards, the company said. It will also allow for the integration of other payment options such as mobile wallets in the future. The feature requires customers to choose Walmart Pay within the retailer’s mobile app at a checkout counter, activate their phone camera and scan the code displayed at the register after which an e-receipt will be sent to the app.
The company is in talks with mobile wallet developers, Daniel Eckert, senior vice president of services for Walmart U.S., said on the call, but did not specify who the companies were. Wal-Mart has been working with a consortium of retailers to develop a mobile wallet, called CurrentC, which was beta-launched in August, in a bid to rival Apple Inc’s (AAPL.O) Apple Pay. Wal-Mart said Walmart Pay was developed independently, but it continues to remain associated with CurrentC as a possible mobile wallet addition to Walmart Pay.
Samsung to finally pay Apple $548 million in patent dispute
Circuit in Washington, D.C. had authorized damages to Apple in May, Samsung again appealed the final figure to the same court, and was rebuffed twice more. Now agreeing to pay, Samsung told the San Jose court that it expects to be reimbursed if it eventually succeeds in a forthcoming appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court over its liability for copying the patented designs of the surface, bezel and user interface of the iPhone, which accounted for $399 million of the total award. South Korea-based Samsung also said it reserved the right to be reimbursed in the future if a decision by the U.S. Patent and Samsung fought until the Friday. Trademark Office invalidating one bitter end to avoid paying Apple, The payment comes after of the Apple patents in the case, but the company now says it will a U.S. appeals court last May related to touchscreen gestures, is finally hand over the more than reduced a $930 million judgment upheld. $548 million it owes for infringing against Samsung by $382 million, Apple intends to appeal the patents and designs of its stemming from a 2012 verdict that ruling and said in court biggest smartphone rival. for infringing Apple patents and documents it “disputes Samsung’s In papers filed in federal copying the look of the iPhone. asserted rights to reimbursement.” court in San Jose, California on Another trial over “We are disappointed that Thursday, Samsung Electronics remaining damages relating to the court has agreed to proceed Co Ltd said it will make the some of Samsung’s infringing with Apple’s grossly exaggerated payment by Dec. 14 if Apple Inc products in the case is set to go damages claims regardless of sends an invoice on Friday. ahead next spring. whether the patents are valid,” a Asked if it had done so, Even though the U.S. Samsung spokeswoman said in a Apple declined to comment on Court of Appeals for the Federal statement.
Winter holiday travel to be busier this year: U.S. airlines group Winter holiday travel on U.S. airlines will be even busier this year than last, an airlines association said Thursday. U.S. carriers are expected to fly 38.1 million passengers worldwide from Dec. 18 through Jan. 3, up 3 percent from a year earlier, Washingtonbased trade group Airlines for America said in a news release.
“We attribute the increase to the improving economy and the fact that airfare remains affordable, having declined 4.3 percent through the first nine months of the year,” the group’s chief economist, John Heimlich, said in the release. The group said airlines will use larger planes to match the demand.
Low oil, high travel demand to boost airline profits next year: IATA Low oil prices and healthy demand for travel, despite recent terror attacks hurting some destinations, will boost airline profits again in 2016, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said on Thursday. IATA, which represents almost 260 airlines accounting for 83 percent of global air traffic, said net profit would reach record levels of $36.3 billion, after $33 billion in 2015, with more than half of earnings coming from North American carriers. The Geneva-based association, whose members range from Delta (DAL.N), Lufthansa (LHAG.DE) and Qatar Airways to Qantas (QAN. AX) and Cathay Pacific (0293.HK), previously forecast profits of $29.3 billion for the industry in 2015. “The airline industry has strengthened its profitability to an ordinary, but not extraordinary, level” IATA Director General Tony Tyler told journalists in Geneva, citing a net profit margin of 4.6 percent and 5.1 percent for this year and next. Both this year and next, the industry’s return on capital is expected the exceed the cost of capital for the first time, a boost for investors. “It’s a more into a more normal rate of profitability. It’s the sort of returns every other industry treats as commonplace,” IATA chief economist Brian Pearce said, though he added such returns were only being seen in North America and parts of Europe, while Latin America and Africa were struggling. Still, profits in North America are expected to drop slightly to $19.2 billion in 2016 from $19.4 billion, which Pearce said reflected how U.S. carriers had benefited from low fuel prices this year already, while European carriers are heavily hedged so will see the most benefit next year. Demand for travel has been booming in 2015, thanks to improving economies and lower fuel helping boost spending, especially on leisure trips. Still, security concerns after a spate of attacks in popular holiday destinations, from Paris to Tunisia and Egypt, have cast a cloud over the sector. Worldwide airline share prices fell 6 percent in November, partly owing to security fears, IATA said. The impact on Paris is likely to last between six and nine months, but people will not stop traveling, instead picking somewhere else to go, Tyler said. “Other experiences have shown that it doesn’t take long for people to put their fears behind and go back to places that have suffered these outrages,” he said.
Boeing books $1.1 billion in orders Boeing Co booked 11 new jetliner orders worth about $1.1 billion at list prices on Thursday, leaving it with about 180 more sales to land this month to meet its 2015 target. The world’s largest plane maker also affirmed that orders will roughly equal the 755-760 jetliners it had expected to deliver to customers this year. European rival Airbus said this week it had booked 1,007 net orders through November. That compares with 575 net orders for Boeing as of Thursday. With its total topping 1,000, Airbus appeared almost certain to win the annual order race. But for deliveries, Boeing is likely to again beat Airbus, which has estimated about 630
planes. Boeing’s latest orders included 10 of its 737 planes for Turkish Airlines and one 767 for FedEx Corp . Four orders for 737 jetliners were canceled. Boeing said the lost orders were “straightforward NG cancellations,” referring to the current 737NG model, and not conversions of orders to the forthcoming 737 MAX. Conversions have been a frequent cause of 737NG cancellations this year and do not reduce the order book as outright cancellations do. Boeing rolled out the first 737 MAX this week at its factory in Renton, Washington. The plane, which runs on 14 percent less fuel than the current 737, is due to make its first flight early next year and enter service in 2017.
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Run4fun donates to Autism cause
Local nonprofit Run4fun Worldwide Ltd. donates funds to Turks and Caicos Hope Foundation for Autism. The money was raised from the triannual sporting event called Triathlon Challenge Series. This donation came from the Triathlon Sprint event held on November 15th 2015 at the Bight Park The Turks and Caicos Hope Foundation for Autism Chairman, Almando Rigby accepted a check for $500.00 from Director of Events for Run4fun Worldwide, Kevin Bethel and was very happy to receive the funds particularly at this time of year. “Autism has today received a ‘boost’ thanks to the generous donation from Run4fun Worldwide.” Said Mr. Rigby. Also, “thanks to the TCI Triathlon Series Challenge that had hosted the event on Sunday November 15th 2015 at the Bight Park. I was there early to assist as a Safety Official and the athletic ability demonstrated by the participants was amazing. We need more event like this that can attract international attention to TCI and help raise even more funds for local charities”, he went on to say. Run4fun Worldwide was set up in 2012 with a twofold purpose raising funds for local charities by hosting various sporting events and focusing on creating a springboard for Sports Tourism; identifying local ‘talent; in various sporting disciplines to develop
in to a Club Team and a TCI National Team. Therefore, events like Triathlon, Marathon & Half Marathon, Ultra Marathon and a few 5 k and 10 k races have been created. Each event was designed to highlight a certain part of the Island Nation: Middle Caicos Midnight Madness (34 miles) is run between North and South Caicos. Triathlons are done on a natural loop between the Lower Bight, the Kids Park and Leeward Highway using Suzy Turn and Prat’s Road. (For a complete list of ALL events visit run4funworldwide.com.) This year, biking enthusiast have enjoyed the creation of two events: Conch Bar Rally – 50 Miles – from Sandy Point to Conch Bar and back. Caicos Cyclery co-hosts and sponsors this event. 1st Circuit – Leeward Highway loop from Beaches roundabout to Seven Stars roundabout. Next year, 2016 Run4fun WW will be adding two more OFF ROAD bike events and one more long distance event for Providenciales (17 miles) with another in North and Middle called the Caicos Causeway Crossing (10). It is always a pleasure to design and host an event here in Turks and Caicos,” said Mr Bethel, “the natural beauty and layout of the islands lend themselves to easy development of a race route(s) with built in safety!” Also, the people here are getting used to seeing bikers and runners on the
Almando Rigby, Chairman for the Turks and Caicos Hope Foundation for Autism, accepts a check for $500 from Kevin Bethel, Director of Events for Run4fun Worldwide roads and so have made adjustments Federation. for them!” The next phase is to develop Run4fun Worldwide could with the help of people in the Island not have been as successful without a bespoke event for each individual the support and encouragement from island!” TCI Sports Department, the Minister He went on to say that none of of Sports for the Turks and Caicos this would have been possible without Islands, the TCI Commonwealth Game the generous sponsorship of people and Association, the TCAAA and the TCI Corporations that have supported the Tourism Board. event and Company from it’s inception: Making a donation to the The Wine Cellar, LIME, Club Med Hope foundation for Autism is only TCI, Caciu Naniku, Marco Travel, Big the beginning. Developing a National Blue Unlimited, British Caribbean Team in the various disciplines to ‘go Bank, Tiki Hut, Sharkbite Restaurant, forth’ and make a ‘mark’ for TCI in FORTIS TCI, Flamingo Pharmacy, International Competition is part of Caicos Cyclery, Digicel, Giley’s the end goal. Creating a vibrant Sports Enterprises, Provo Golf and TCI Swim Tourism destination is another.
Speaking at the Integrity Commission’s Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December, the Governor Peter Beckingham highlighted the importance of the smallest countries like Turks and Caicos getting more involved in good governance. “While it may be natural to associate corruption with some of the biggest countries or organisations in the world, like FIFA, it is important that even the smallest countries have a role to play in setting an example. TCI is no exception.” The Governor noted that, in a recent publication by journalists of the London Times on corruption
in FIFA, it was reported that TCI’s Ms Sonia Bien-Aime, the Caribbean Representative on FIFA’s Executive Committee, had returned a gift valued at several thousand dollars at a FIFA function. “Unlike other delegates” the Governor said “Ms Sonia Bien-Aime didn’t hesitate to return the watch she had been presented, given its substantial monetary value. By doing so she demonstrated that, representing TCI, she was not to be bought. It was a fine and laudable example.” The Governor noted other ways in which elected representatives of Turks and Caicos could set an example
to society as a whole. He remarked that, quite correctly, Cabinet Ministers and officials had recused themselves from discussions in Cabinet where there was a risk of personal interests clashing with those of the country as a whole. “Absenting themselves was the correct thing to do, and I hope that their example will be followed by all politicians of whatever persuasion. I am also pleased that the Declaration of Interests is now taken so much more seriously as a living document for the country.” The Governor concluded by applauding the work of the Integrity
Governor applauds local football boss lady’s honesty
Commission, especially its work in highlighting among schools and other groups the importance of integrity in public life. “The Commission” he noted “is unique in TCI in having a responsibility to shine a light on good governance, integrity and anticorruption. This is inevitably a difficult and sometimes challenging role” the Governor said, “but with the inspirational leadership of its Board, whose work I applaud, TCI is beginning to stand out in the region as something of a model on how to organise a successful anti corruption body”.
Inter-Schools Tag Rugby Festival a huge success Saturday, 5th December saw the first ever Inter-School Tag Rugby Festival take place, organized by the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU). The event was a huge success drawing in teams from across Provo and Grand Turk. The Festival consisted of three groups – The Primary Schools (the under 12s), the Secondary Schools (the under 13s) and the under 19s. The Primary Schools, which put forward six teams – two teams from Enid Capron School, the International School and Provo Primary, respectively. Provo Primary were the overall winners of the Primary Schools group, with Enid Capron putting in an excellent effort by getting to the final in which they scored three tries! The Under Fifteens has three schools take part – HJ Robinson from Grand Turk, and the Collegiate and Middle School, both from Provo. TCIRFU are hoping more of the Islands will get involved in next year, following the success of this
year’s event. Next year’s event will take place late may or early June 2016. The Under Fifteens group was a tightly fought competition, which went all the way to extra time, with Grand Turk’s H J Robinson being the overall winner of the group. The Under Nineteens put on a dazzling display of tag rugby skills in a series of games that displayed the groups skill, speed and passion for the game. Four schools took part in this group – Clement Howell, TCIPS, HJ Robinson and the Collegiate. Clement Howell and HK Robinson put in an awesome show, but it was the Collegiate and TCIPS who reached the final with the Collegiate being the winner of this group. The MVPs from the Festival with CJ from TCIPS taking the title for the Under Nineteens’ group. Dessa Douglas from the Collegiate for the Under Fifteens group, and Alberta from Provo Primary for the Under Twelves. Special mention must also be made to Courtney from Enid Capron,
who put in a great show of tag rugby talent. TCI Dignatories were also there to support the event, with medals and trophies presented to the winners by the Deputy Premier, the Honorable Akierra Missick. The Youth Tag Rugby Training Programme continues its popularity with FREE weekly training, every Saturday morning from 10.30am at the Meridian Field. This week’s Youth training (12th December 2015) is a special Christmas training session, which will be held on Grace Bay Beach, in front of Ricky’s Flamingo Bar, Provo. Parents are invited to come join in, and new players always welcome. Stay tuned to the TCIRFU Facebook page for up to date information on training and events. The TCIRFU would like to thank all the sponsors, players, parents and organisers for making the Festival such a success, and we look forward next year to the further growth of this popular sport within Turks and Caicos Islands.
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LOCAL SPORTS
TCIFA WOMEN'S SPEED SOCCER 2015 Women's Speed Soccer culminated on Sunday, December 12, 2015 at the National Academy of the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA). These games are introduced annually to the female community in a fun and friendly environment without any age or physical restrictions. After many rounds of games, throughout the months of November and December, the final game saw The Mozzies vs. Fast & Furious. Fast & Furious came hard and fast with continuous strikes on goal, but were met with The Mozzies well organized defence. Both teams played with
passion and maintained quick and precise movements throughout the game. However, at the end of the second half, the score was 0 - 0. This brought the game into a penalty shootout where five players from each team were allowed to have an opportunity on goal. Spectators eagerly cheered the participants as each player aligned themselves and made attempts to score. At the end of this teeth clinching penalty shootout, The Mozzies were defeated by Fast & Furious with a final score of 1 - 2, respectively. Candia Ewing, General Secretary of the TCIFA was on hand
to assist Candace Hanchell, Executive Director responsible for women's football with awards and prizes. Members of Fast & Furious were elated as they received their medals as first place winners. Joan Whent, for the second consecutive year, was awarded top goal scorer of the Women's Speed Soccer League. Natalie Zaidan won the award for producing a team with the largest number of non-football players (The Mozzies). Anika Siden and Christina Louisy were awarded youngest and second youngest players, respectively, whilst Gillian Vernice won the award for the oldest player. It was noted
Candia Ewing with awarded moms
Candia Ewing and Joan Whent, Top Goal Scorer
All-Star T-20 cricket match
The revamped Quality Super Kings rain over Rum XI in the All-Star T-20 cricket match played on Sunday 6th December 2015 at the Down Town Ball Park. Batting first after winning the toss, Rum XI was restricted for 133 run for 8 wickets from allotted 20 overs. Captain Marlon Graham led the way with unbeaten 75 (8x4, 2x6) and Winnick Caleb added 19 runs. Bowling for Quality Super Kings, Pawan Kumar, Smijo Devassey and Lloyd Lynch captured 2 wickets each. In their chase, Quality Super Kings reached the prescribed target in 14.1
overs for the loss of 5 wickets. The flamboyant Srilankan born Nuwan Bodiyanake top scored with unbeated 65 which was decorated with 8 boundaries and 3 sixes. Ira Baptiste added 12 and Smijo Devassey was unbeaten on 11 when the winning run was scored. Bowling for Rum X1, Marlon Graham claimed 3 wickets for 9 runs in 3 overs. The winners trophy was awarded to Quality Super Kings along with the cash price of $ 300.00. The Man of the Match trophy along with cash price of $ 100.00 awarded to Nuwan Bodiyanake. Team Quality Super Kings
Winners Presented Trophy
Team Rum XL
that Yanike Lee had her first football experience during the 2015 Women's Speed Soccer League and scored two goals, she was awarded in this regard. Additional prizes and gifts were also given out, e.g. most creative player, moms who attended the largest number of games, etc. The TCIFA continues with its endeavours under the Live Your Goals campaign to globally increase the number of female participants within the sport and to make the sport of football easily accessible to all girls and women within the Turks & Caicos Islands.
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SPORTS
Australia has weaknesses West Indies can exploit - Holder
the retired Mitchell Johnson or the injured Mitchell Starc. Holder hopes those changes to Australia’s personnel will help his side. “We don’t come with just some belief, we come with a lot of belief,” Holder told reporters in Brisbane on Monday. “If we don’t believe, there’s no point being here. We have to play aggressive West Indies caption Jason Holder cricket, we have to play smart It is not yet December they have hence back-loaded cricket. The Australians are and already the most exciting the season with limited-overs the No.2-ranked side in the part of Australia’s home Test matches against India. It is world. They will come at us summer is done. At least, against this backdrop that pretty hard, as we saw in the such is the popular thinking captain Jason Holder and his Caribbean. among Australian cricket team-mates have tiptoed into “[In the Australiafans. November brought New the country almost unnoticed, New Zealand series] We saw Zealand, a team capable preparing for a tour match weaknesses where we can of providing a stern test of in Brisbane starting on exploit. There’s some new Steven Smith’s men. It also Wednesday. faces, mixed with some guys brought the novelty of a day- Holder knows the who have been in rich veins night Test with a pink ball. task ahead of him is immense. of form. It’s important that December brings a West Even with home advantage we put some pressure on their Indies team whose only away earlier this year, West Indies middle order. Test wins since 2007 have could not avoid a 0-2 loss to “If we get early been against Bangladesh. Australia. But things have wickets with the new ball, Cricket Australia changed since then. Holder we can get guys like Shaun know that Boxing Day and has replaced Denesh Ramdin Marsh, guys who are trying to New Year’s Tests against West as captain, Smith has make their way back into this Indies will be far from the succeeded Michael Clarke in side, put them under some draw cards of the Ashes or charge of Australia, and West pressure to score. Once we can Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and Indies will also not have to face do that it should be a relatively
competitive series. They have some in-form batsmen, David Warner and Steve Smith, so it’s just important that we put some pressure on their middle order.” To do so, Holder has a simple plan: move the ball. Swing it, seam it, and test the techniques of Australia’s batsmen. The first Test is in Hobart, where cloudy overhead conditions can sometimes help swing bowlers, but it is also often a good pitch on which to bat. Holder watched with interest as Australia piled on the runs on flatter decks in Brisbane and Perth before struggling in Adelaide. “Not only do we have the pace, we have bowlers with the skill to extract movement,” Holder said. “I saw in the first two Test matches there were some pretty flat pitches and the ball didn’t do much. The Australian batsmen and the New Zealand batsmen were able to capitalise. “One of the crucial things in this series will be to extract some movement. I saw what movement did in this last
Test match with New Zealand and Australia, with both sides being a bit at fault and being caught out. It’s important our bowlers look to do something with the ball.” Equally, the West Indies batsmen must find a way to counter Australia’s bowlers in their own conditions. On Tuesday morning, they will find out which bowlers have been picked for the first Test in Hobart, with James Pattinson likely to be in the squad alongside Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood, although Hazlewood may be rested at some point in the series. In the series in the Caribbean earlier this year, no West Indies batsman managed to score a century and Holder himself topped their run list with 116, despite batting at No.8. It is six years since West Indies have visited Australia for Tests and their entire top six has changed in that time, meaning plenty of learning ahead for the batsmen in these three Tests, although Marlon Samuels has played Tests in Australia previously.
Chris Gayle has strip club installed in his house
Chris Gayle’s mansion overlooking Kingston, Jamaica
West Indies batsman, Chris Gayle, may be revered across the world for his destructive hitting, but it’s his all-round laid back approach to life that earns him so many admirers. Thanks to his penchant for a good night out along with his insatiable appetite for the opposite sex, the 35-year-old is often to described as ‘the coolest man in sport’. However, the Jamaican’s latest addition to his house might make him the envy of some men for Gayle inside his strip club completely different - more bizarre Gayle posted the shot from - reasons. inside his house along with the Chris Gayle took to caption: “if you don’t have a strip Instagram to show off his most club at home, you ain’t a cricket recent house fitting - an indoor ‘player’. I always make sure my strip club, complete with pole and guest well entertained and feel like lady. they are at home
#LifeIsForLiving#DreamBig” Gayle has scored more than 7,000 Test runs, 9,000 ODI runs and is also a reasonably reliable off-break bowler.Gayle has an estimated net worth of $15 million.
Narine suspended from bowling after action found illegal
West Indies spinner Sunil Narine has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect after his action was found to be illegal. An independent assessment revealed that all variations of his deliveries exceeded the 15-degree limit. Narine’s action was reported earlier this month during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Pallekele. In accordance with Article 6.1 of the regulations, “Narine’s international suspension will also be recognised and enforced by all National Cricket Federations within
domestic cricket events played in their own jurisdiction, save that, with the consent of the West Indies Cricket Board, Narine may be able to play in domestic cricket events played under the auspices of the West Indies Cricket Board.” The test was done on November 17 at ICC’s testing centre in Loughborough University. Narine can apply for re-assessment after modifying his action in accordance with clause 2.4 of the Regulations for the Review of Bowlers Reported with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions. Narine was playing against
Sri Lanka after a gap of more than a year in international cricket, and finished with four wickets from three ODIs at an average of 18. He is currently the No. 1 ranked bowler in the ICC rankings for ODIs and T20Is. Narine is currently playing in the Bangladesh Premier League for Comilla Victorians, and this suspension means he won’t be allowed to bowl in the BPL too. He will fly out of Dhaka on Sunday night itself. “We were prepared for the announcement,” Comilla Victorians owner Nafeesa Kamal told ESPNcricinfo. “We were told that we
can expect something on November 29 so we had planned accordingly. We will definitely miss him. He was an asset to the team. We are now looking for a player to replace him.” The West Indies Cricket Board said that Narine would receive its full support as he works on correcting his action. “We will be offering our support to Sunil as he does the remedial work on his bowling action. I know the time and effort he has put in to do this work previously and I am sure this will just deepen his resolve to come back a better bowler,” Richard Pybus, WICB’s director of cricket, said in a release.
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WORLD
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
SPORTS
athlete publishes his Oscar Pistorius: bailed, Trackmillion dollar salary tagged and free to roam
Oscar Pistorius, who murdered his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine’s Day 2013, was granted bail on Tuesday and has the freedom of South Africa’s capital Pretoria as he waits to appeal his conviction in April. The Paralympic champion, nicknamed “Blade Runner” because of the prosthetic legs he uses to race was granted bail of 10,000 rand ($686), after spending the last two months under house arrest at his uncle’s home in a wealthy Pretoria suburb. Pistorius had been meant to serve the rest of a five-year sentence there but the Supreme Court upgraded the 29-yearold’s conviction to murder from culpable homicide last week. He will appear in court on April 18 to give an update on his appeal at the constitutional court. He faces a minimum 15-year sentence for shooting Steenkamp in a case that has fascinated and divided South Africa, a country beset by high levels of violent crime. Rights groups say the white track star has received preferential treatment. On Tuesday, South African High Court Judge Aubrey Ledwaba said Pistorius could leave the house between 7 a.m. (12 a.m. ET) and noon and, with permission from the authorities, travel within a radius of 20km (12 miles). Pistorius has been ordered
Oscar Pistorius reacts after he was granted bail as he leaves the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria, South Africa after his bail hearing December 8, 2015. to hand in his passport and wear an electronic tag. When he was arrested in 2013, Pistorius had to set aside bail of 1 million rand, but on Tuesday he argued for a reduced amount, saying his means had diminished. “I have lost all my assets and only possess my personal assets,” he said in his written bail application. “I have no income, but will continue to seek employment ... It was difficult to obtain employment due to my conviction and correctional supervision conditions.” Pistorius lost millions of dollars in endorsements and sponsorships, after reaching the pinnacle of his fame in London 2012 when he became the first
double amputee to run in the Olympics, reaching the 400-metres semi-finals. Pistoruis, who also said in his application that he had enrolled in a correspondence course for a degree at the London School of Economics, was dressed in a black suit and tie and appeared calm during the proceedings. There was no immediate comment from Steenkamp’s family. Barry Steenkamp, Reeva’s father, welcomed the murder conviction last week, saying “it was a fair decision”. Pistorius’ lawyer Barry Roux said the appeal would cite grounds including the appeal court reconsidering a trial court finding that Pistorius felt his and Steenkamp’s life were in danger when he fired the shots.
Canadian sprinter and USC student Andre De Grasse signed a pro contract with Puma recently. There are two reasons this is big screaming news in track and field: One is that the contract is for a stratospheric amount of money, compensation of the sort top NBA picks are accustomed to but track athletes imagine they’re reading wrong; and two is that we know what that amount is. It’s $11.25 million with up to $30 million in bonuses possible. As Kevin Sully writes in Daily Relay, “This information shouldn’t be a huge deal. The athlete, sponsor and agent all have an interest in the public hearing about the size of deal. With track and field, it still feels like a Wikileaks disclosure, as if the information was somehow discovered through backchannels and not freely offered to a journalist.” Reluctance to talk about salaries, bonuses, and appearance money is just one aspect of the bizarrely hush-hush, rumor-rich, paranoid track world, as modeled by the sport’s governing organizations. The amount, length and details of any baseball or football player’s contract is easily learned; not so in track. One can find that mid-distance star Jenny Simpson earned $5,000 for winning the Fifth Avenue Mile, but even other athletes in the field didn’t know how much Simpson was paid to show up, nor the details of her contract with New Balance. In track, it’s rude to talk about money, like asking someone’s salary at a dinner party. Track prides itself on nice manners. Or maybe pretending that track and field is more sophisticated and genteel than those crass, thicknecked team sports masks some inconvenient truths about why compensation in the sport is so low, where that money came from, and where the rest of it went. Sully speculated, “Track, and other Olympic sports as well, seem set on keeping most financial information in the dark even if the numbers project a positive image. One theory I’ve heard is competing sponsors don’t want the financial information out because it allows them to keep contracts low.”
Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah used to run the Bulls. Now they’re trying to keep up BOSTON — When the Bulls came here as a No. 7 seed in the first round of the 2009 NBA playoffs against the defending champion Celtics, Chicago left with a 105-103 overtime victory in Game 1. Led by 36 points and 11 assists from rookie guard Derrick Rose and 11 points, 17 rebounds and three blocks from second-year center Joakim Noah, the win signaled that the Rose-Noah Bulls were here to stay. And, for the past six years, they have been. While so many things about the NBA have come and gone during that time — heck, LeBron James left Cleveland for Miami and then came back again in that time — the Bulls have, for better or worse, been defined by their two stars. That’s what makes this year’s version of the Bulls so strange to watch, as it’s easy to see the obvious changing of the guard within the organization, one that began with replacing former coach Tom Thibodeau with Fred Hoiberg after last season and is continuing now. Over the past six years, both before and after Rose began going through his myriad injury issues, he was the center of the Bulls’ universe. Before he tore his ACL in April 2012,
Rose was the Chicago-born superstar that had finally brought his hometown team back into contention after a long dry spell following Michael Jordan’s second retirement. After it, and throughout the subsequent injuries Rose has battled through over the past three years, Rose has been the embattled athlete trying to simply get back on the court — let alone recapture the form that made him the NBA’s MVP in 2011. Right alongside him was Noah, the fiery, outgoing personality that was the yin to Rose’s yang, and who carried the franchise to the playoffs while Rose was watching in street clothes in 2013 and 2014. But if you were around the Bulls Wednesday either before, during or after their 105-100 loss to the Celtics, it wouldn’t have taken you long to realize that Jimmy Butler has usurped both of them in Chicago’s pecking order. “We just get out-toughed sometimes,” Butler said at the team’s morning shootaround, going on to say, “You can call it soft, call it whatever you want.” Butler, who signed a fiveyear max contract, including a player option in the final year, this past summer, then went out and backed
up his words by scoring a careerhigh 36 points in Wednesday’s loss to the Celtics — including scoring 17 of Chicago’s 25 points in the fourth quarter. After the loss sent the Bulls into their first threegame losing streak of the year, Butler gave the strongest quotes about where he feels the team is at the moment. “We’ve got to pick it up,” Butler said. “The way we’re playing is not good enough. We have to learn to build on leads the entire game, but definitely into the fourth quarter. “You can say it enough times that we know what we have to do. But just as y’all keep asking me, us the same questions, we just can’t continue to give out the same answers. So eventually, we’ve got to make it happen.” Even at the peak of his powers, Rose was never going to be the type of player to make a vocal statement — and, more often than not, his comments have wound up getting him in trouble throughout his career. But the problem for Rose now is that he simply doesn’t appear capable of being the same player he was before his injuries. While Butler was an All-Star last season and is well on his way to being one again, Rose is averaging
Noah has been spending more time on the bench this season. 13.7 points and 5.9 assists while shooting a dismal 35.9 percent overall and 22.7 percent from three-point range. And while he’s still capable of making a nice pass and the occasional play, he just doesn’t seem capable of taking over games the way he used to.
DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
WORLD SPORTS
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach leaves after a news conference in Lausanne, Switzerland, December 10, 2015. The International Olympic Committee wants to make sure the billions of dollars of cash distributed to stakeholders for the development of sport is being used appropriately and will ask for audits of every major contribution handed out, IOC President Thomas Bach said on Thursday. “What we want to achieve is that this money which is coming
Spaniard Rafa Nadal remains fiercely loyal to his uncle and coach Toni despite saying he does not know when, or even if, he will win another grand slam title. Former world number one Nadal failed to add to his 14 major titles this year as he missed out on any of the sport’s four grand slams for the first time since 2004. The 29-year-old endured a difficult year and slumped to 10th in the rankings in June, although he showed glimpses of his old power in the latter weeks of the season, beating world number four Stanislas Wawrinka and number two Andy Murray at the ATP World Tour Finals and finishing the year ranked five. “I don’t know when that’s
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IOC to start audits for sports bodies over Olympic money
from sport is going to sport and that the decisions on who is benefiting at the end from these contributions are being taken with respect to rules of good governance,” Bach told reporters at the end of an IOC Executive Board meeting. The IOC, concerned with the ongoing scandals engulfing soccer’s world governing body FIFA and the international athletics federation (IAAF), is eager to make sure major payments to international sports federations, national Olympic Committees (NOCs) and Games organizing committees is accountable. Bach said the auditing would be conducted by an independent organization and would start for the year 2016 for every major contribution by the IOC.
Nadal unsure about another major title
Rafa Nadal
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
going to happen and I don’t know if that’s going to happen,” Nadal, currently in New Delhi to represent the Indian Aces in the International Premier Tennis League, told reporters on Thursday. The likes of seven-times grand slam champion John McEnroe have suggested Nadal could use the help of a new coach, but the Mallorcan seems unlikely to go down that route. “Without Toni, nothing would have been possible,” he said. “I feel so lucky that I have somebody from my family that is my coach for ever. That’s a big advantage in my opinion. Toni’s response was a lighthearted one. “It’s not my decision, his decision. No, maybe he needs the best coach, but I am not too expensive,” he said. Great rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have both talked up Nadal’s chances of adding to his grand slam collection. Nadal says he will just keep working hard to “create opportunities”. “2015 has been not the best season possible. The last three months, I think it was much better,” Nadal, who reached finals in Beijing and Basel and the semis at the ATP’s year-ender in London where he lost to Djokovic, said. “I’m happy the way that I’m playing now. I need to keep going. I want to keep going the same way that I finished the 2015 season. I think that I improved a lot so much in the last tournament. “That’s the way I’m going to keep working hard to try and continue with that level of the game.”
He said the move was a further step by the IOC to boost good governance for both the organization and its partners. FIFA and the IAAF are facing investigations of corruption involving senior officials, with the crisis eroding the organizations’ credibility. Several senior FIFA officials are among the 41 people arrested in connection to a corruption and racketeering probe while the former head of the IAAF Lamine Diack is also under formal investigation in France for allegations of corruption and money-laundering. With athletics and soccer both Olympic sports they are eligible for Olympic contributions at the end of each Games. About $519 million was distributed among the 26 sports after
the London 2012 Games. Games organizers receive well over one billion dollars from the IOC to help organize the Games while NOCs receive further funds. Bach said ongoing scandals at FIFA were damaging for all sports organizations, even those not involved in scandals. “I think it is obvious many sports organizations are concerned because many people do not make this distinction. They generalize,” Bach said. “That is why we are concerned and why so many other sports organizations are concerned and continue to be concerned if these procedures are dragging on and on and you have from week to week other bad news coming up.”
US Grand Prix will happen, says Formula One boss Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone expects next year’s U.S. Grand Prix in Austin to go ahead, despite lingering doubts about state funding, but is less certain about the sport finding new owners in the near future. “It will be (on), for sure, they will sort their finances out,” the 85-year-old said in a wide-ranging post-season interview with Sky Sports television. The Oct. 23 race in Texas, the only round in the United States and important for teams and sponsors, is on the 2016 calendar with an asterisk against it as subject to agreement with the commercial rights holder. Ecclestone expressed concern last month after media reports that Texas state subsidies were being reduced by more than 20 percent to around $19.5 million. Bad weather this year also hit revenues significantly. On Formula One’s future ownership, Ecclestone indicated a change might not be as imminent as some expected. There has been takeover talk for months and he was quoted recently by German daily Handelsblatt as saying controlling shareholders CVC Capital partners were likely to decide by March. However he told Sky that CVC, whose co-chairman Donald Mackenzie has been a regular presence at races, would take some persuading. “The bottom line is simple: in the end, the major shareholder really doesn’t want to sell. That’s really the truth of things,” he said. “People keep tempting him. And one day maybe...at the moment,
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone speaks to the media at the paddock area ahead of the Russian F1 Grand Prix in Sochi, Russia there’s people that may be doing a little more than in the past. But I think it will be difficult to get him to say yes.” Asked whether he might seek to increase his own five percent stake, Ecclestone did not rule it out. He was also asked about comments made by Mercedes motorsport head Toto Wolff suggesting the dominant team could change their driver line-up if the relationship between triple champion Lewis Hamilton and Germany’s Nico Rosberg deteriorated further. Ecclestone saw no threat to Hamilton who recently signed a new three-year deal. “He’s got a contract so he can hardly be set aside. And I can’t imagine a team would want to get rid of one of their best assets,” he said. Commenting on Red Bull’s problems with securing an engine for 2016, and Renault’s deliberations about their future, Ecclestone was relieved both had decided to stay.
World heavyweight champion Fury stripped of IBF title
World heavyweight champion Tyson Fury’s uncle and trainer says the decision to strip the British fighter of one of his three titles is “absolutely scandalous”. The 27-year-old title holder, whose comments about homosexuality and women have provoked almost as many headlines as his feats inside the ring, was relieved of his IBF belt after agreeing to a contracted rematch with the Ukrainian Wladimir Klitschko instead of fighting the IBF’s mandatory challenger. The IBF explained its decision to strip Fury of their title on Wednesday, saying the rematch was
“in direct violation of an IBF rule”. Ukraine’s Vyacheslav Glazkov was the number one contender for the IBF title and should have been Fury’s next opponent -- the U.S. based organization said. “Following the title fight between Klitschko and Fury, the IBF became aware for the first time that there was a contractual agreement between both fighters for an immediate rematch,” it said. “There were no provisions for any rematch in the contracts which were submitted to the IBF prior to the IBF agreeing to sanction the Klitschko vs. Fury bout.”
In an interview in Boxing News, trainer Peter Fury said: “It’s absolutely scandalous. I’ve not spoken to Tyson yet but we’re dealing with it. “But we’ve got a rematch that we’re tied to. We have to take that fight. A fight of this magnitude, the IBF should only be too happy to be involved in such a megafight.” Fury, who still holds the WBA and WBO versions of the title, has been shortlisted for the BBC’s prestigious Sports Personality of the Year award -- a move widely criticized after his controversial comments on a range of topics. An online petition calling on
the BBC to deselect him because of comments widely seen as homophobic has now gathered close to 100,000 signatures. On Wednesday Britain’s Sports Journalist’s Association (SJA) said it had withdrawn its invitation to Tyson Fury to attend next week’s British Sports Awards. “The decision was made as a consequence of threats made by Fury against at least one sports journalist, an SJA member, who has written about the boxer’s repugnant comments on homosexuality and women,” the SJA said in a statement.
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DECEMBER 11TH, 2015 – DECEMBER 18TH, 2015
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