December 21 - January 8, 2015

Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 51 | December 21, 2015 - January 8, 2016

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DEFENDANTS SHOULD BE FREE TO RESPOND

– Thorne QC

Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne believes all nine defendants in the corruption trial of former Premier Michael Misick should be given the opportunity to reply to facts outlined by lead prosecutor Andrew Mitchell when the trial resumes in January.

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InterCaribbean launches new services to Antigua and Cuba

MISICK’S RETURN FROM BRAZIL WAS LAWFUL, JUDGE SAYS

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BLOOD BANK IN CRITICAL NEED OF BLOOD 11 PAGE 

FORTISTCI NAMES PIONEERS OF THE TCI ELECTRICITY UTILITY INDUSTRY PAGE  19

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Thorne says all nine defendants should be allowed to respond

BY OLIVIA ROSE QUEEN’s Counsel Ralph Thorne believes all nine defendants in the corruption trial of former Premier Michael Misick should be given the opportunity to reply to facts outlined by lead prosecutor Andrew Mitchell when the trial resumes in January.

Thorne told reporters on Tuesday, December 15, that: “I fear a situation in which he will have this opportunity to open the case, outline the facts to the judge and that stays in the judge’s mind for the duration of this case, so I think that we should in the interest of justice be given the opportunity to reply to the facts that he outlines immediately after he’s done.”

Thorne said plans are in the pipelines to make an application to the court in an attempt to respond to the prosecutors opening argument.

He noted that “Under the strict rules that obtain there’s generally no right to reply to the prosecutors opening.

“Strictly speaking the prosecutor’s opening is where he relates the statement of facts that he intends to adduce in court to the jury, except we don’t have a jury here and since he’s going to be talking to a judge and I have no idea what he’s going to be telling him.”

He explained that the defence’s first occasion for any major outline of the facts presented by Lead Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell to the judge will be at the end of the case.

When asked about the prosecution’s probability of making statements that are not related to the trial, Thorne said it is his expectation that the prosecutor sticks to the hard facts.

“I hope he doesn’t plan to do that.

Generally a prosecutor should guard

Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne who is representing former Premier Michael Misick

himself against saying anything that’s prejudicial, anything that is not relevant to the case which will prejudice the mind of the jury or judge.

“But in any event whatever he plans to say I think we should have the right to reply to it immediately so that the judge goes into this case with a balance view of the facts.”

Thorne said he expects that Mitchell conducts himself as a minister of justice, someone who presents the facts before the court without any emotionalism involved.

Thorne further explained that if the application for “the right to reply” is accepted by Justice Paul Harrison, all nine defendants will have the opportunity to reply to the prosecutor’s opening remarks.

“If the judge gives a right to reply it should pertain to all persons because the prosecutor has told us that his opening will last for about three weeks.

“I mean three weeks of an opening is an abundance of statements to

Former Premier Michael Misick

make and I would think that every defendant has an individual right to respond.”

He underscored the fact that the defendants were charged together but it is not a collective interest, noting that they each have individual rights.

Earlier in the week on day six and seven of the trial Thorne brought a motion before the court which asserted that the prosecution’s evidence was garnered solely from the 2008 to 2009 Commission of Inquiry findings by Sir Robin Auld.

He said: “The reality here is that Mr Misick was summoned to a Commission of Inquiry he had to go to that Commission of Inquiry. If he had not gone they would have been sanctions against him.

“He was ordered to bring documents to that Commission of Inquiry. If he had disobeyed they would have brought sanctions against him and the same goes for some of the other defendants.

“Now the law very strictly states

WE WILL BE RIGHT BACK

Merry Christmas to all of our readers at home and abroad This is Weekly New’s last edition for the year.

Our next edition will be on January 9, 2016.

that nothing a witness says at the commission of inquiry can be used against him in a criminal trial.

“It is now our experience and we have made submissions to that effect, that things that he said at the Commission of Inquiry formed the basis for this charge before the court and we maintain that, that is entirely wrong.”

Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell QC argued that the Commission of Inquiry brought up evidence of an overall plan of corruption and during the extradition proceedings, which took a year, the various elements of the corruption brought other charges.

Mitchell debunked Thorne’s claims that the evidence was drawn solely from the Commission of Inquiry.

He said: “That is totally untrue and in fact I think you will find during the course of the trial that the material from the Commission of Inquiry was always kept separate and of course the information would necessarily form the basis of investigations.

“No point in having a Commission of Inquiry unless you use the information from it to form a basis for investigation.

“But material in the case is material which the officers doing their job as police officers have gone out and sought through normal, proper channels.”

SIR ROBIN AULD’S REPORT The summary of findings is as follows: There is a high probability of systemic corruption in Government and the legislature and among public officers in the Turks and Caicos Islands in recent years.

It appears, in the main, to have consisted of bribery by overseas developers and other investors of ministers and/or public officers, so as to secure Crown land on favourable terms, coupled with Government approval for its commercial development.

Breach and/or by abuse of the Government’s Belongers’ Empowerment and Crown Land Policies appear to be frequent mechanisms of, and aids to, such transactions.

Over the same period there has been serious deterioration - from an CONTINUED 

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1

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Misick’s return from Brazil was lawful, judge says

BY OLIVIA ROSE JUSTICE Paul Harrison has ruled that the return of Michael Misick from Brazil was lawful and in conformity with an existing treaty and that there was no abuse of process.

Harrison on Thursday (December 17) dismissed all motions brought

by Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne including a pivotal argument on the specialty rule and abuse of process as “irrelevant”.

This comes as the second week of the six months corruption trial of former Premier Michael Misick and members of his Cabinet wrapped up at the Myrtle Rigby courthouse in Providenciales.

On day seven Ralph Thorne, who is representing former Premier Michael Misick, continued his speciality arguments in his pursuit to persuade Justice Paul Harrison who is both judge and jury in the trial.

Thorne’s argument was premised on what he described as a breach of trust between Turks and Caicos Islands and Brazil in Misick’s extradition.

He said: “The specialty argument implies that if the Turks and Caicos request the extradition of Mr Misick on the basis of one charge, it becomes a breach of trust between Brazil and Turks and Caicos if, after his return, they charge him with additional offences.

“That is wrong; the law regards that as being entirely wrong.”

The specialty rule is a principle of international law that is included in most extradition treaties, whereby a person who is extradited to a country

Justice Paul Harrison

to stand trial for certain criminal offences may be tried only for those offences and not for any other preextradition offences.

Once the asylum state extradites an individual to the requesting state under the terms of an extradition treaty, that person can be prosecuted only for crimes specified in the extradition request.

QC Thorne also argued that Misick’s charges are ‘political persecution’.

Thorne propounded the fact that Misick was on one charge after considerations by the Brazilian court but that later escalated to 17 counts.

His argument was later rebuffed

by Lead Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell who told the court that former Premier Michael Misick is not and was never a victim of political prosecution but rather a man who “abused his powers while in office.”

In his rebuttal to Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne’s specialty rule and

Queen’s Counsel Ralph Thorne, representing former Premier Michael Misick

Queen’s Counsel Earl Witter, representing former Deputy Premier Floyd Hall

abuse of process arguments, Mitchell told the court that the specialty rule has no basis because it does not exist in TCI’s domestic law since a specialty rule is a matter of international law.

Mitchell made it pellucid that there is no provision in the TCI law that incorporates a specialty rule.

The lead prosecutor denied claims that the charges were politically motivated.

“You couldn’t get further than politicised allegations than the ones before the court, the receiving of money for preferential treatment, the receiving of money to give people advantages which meant that the Government and citizens suffered a loss because revenues are lost is far removed from politics than one could get.”

representing former Deputy Premier Floyd Hall, made an application for a trial postponement until the next six months on the grounds that he has not had sufficient time to prepare a reasonable defence.

He said: “The case against his client weighs heavier than any other defendant.”

He implored Justice Harrison to push back the long awaited trial for an additional six months noting that the court has the allotted power and discretion to grant the postponement.

Witter’s application was opposed

by Richard Bendall, attorney representing Clayton Green, who told Justice Harrison that “enough is enough” and pleaded with the judge to get on with the trial.

Bendall told the court that his client has awaited trial for close to four years and it was unreasonable for Witter to apply for such a lengthy postponement.

He called on Justice Harrison to

DELAY REQUEST As the second week rolled on Queen’s Counsel Earl Witter, who is

SIPT Lead Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell

reject the application.

Lead prosecutor Andrew Mitchell in his rebuttal questioned what has been happening during the four years leading up to the trial since in his view Hall’s attorney had sufficient time to prepare a solid defence.

Mitchell in his usual theatrical flair adamantly asked: “What on earth is going on?” “What was he doing?” noting that Hall through his counsel has had access to all documents since the first court fixture.

Mitchell further argued that certain elements of persuasion were lacking in Witter’s application for postponement of the trial.

He later told reporters during an interview that: “You have to draw a balance between the complaints of Mr Whitter himself that he’s had insufficient time and the reality of the fact that all the defendants in their local terms have had access to CONTINUED 

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Thorne says all nine defendants should be allowed ...

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already low level - in the territory’s systems of governance and public financial management and control.

This deterioration has been accompanied by extravagant and ill-judged commitments by those in public office, primarily ministers, in public expenditure and in their private expenditure at public expense.

There has also been deterioration in the territory’s financial condition and, more recently, accumulating budget deficits and a near collapse of its financial reserves, giving it difficulty on occasion in paying its bills as they have fallen due.

Among the contributors to this moral, governmental and financial decline have been: 1) The potential and encouragement in the system of

governance for abuse of public office, concealment of conflicts of interest at all levels of public life, and consequent venality; 2) The power of politics in the mix of public decision-making and commercial activity, and willingness of overseas developers and other investors to exploit that power for their own purposes; 3) Vulnerability of the majority of the territory’s long-term residents, owing to the precariousness of their permission to live and work here, and to whom Belongership and, with it, the right to vote are denied; And 4) Lack of effective constitutional checks and balances in the system of governance to protect the public.

There is also much scope in the wide discretionary powers accorded to ministers by the 2006 Constitution, and or arrogated

by them, for abuse by them of their public office, inefficient governance and poor public financial management and control, particularly in the grant or withholding of Crown land and permission to develop it and other investment opportunities, and in the exaction or waiver of Government taxes and other dues.

Pursuant to the commission’s first Term of Reference, I find that there is information of possible corruption and/or other serious dishonesty, including misfeasance in public office, in relation to five present elected members of the House of Assembly, all of whom until recently were members of the Cabinet, namely, the Hons Michael Misick, Floyd Hall, McAllister Hanchell, Jeffrey Hall and Lillian Boyce.

I have recommended criminal

investigation by the police or others with a view to prosecutions, if so advised, in relation to such possible offences in respect of matters identified and described in chapter four, and summarized in chapter six, of this report.

Pursuant to the commission’s second Term of Reference, I find that there are systemic weaknesses in legislation, regulation and public administration in the territory, in respect of which I have made recommendations, largely confirming those made in my interim report of February 28, 2009.

Those recommendations include: 1) Partial suspension of the 2006 Constitution and interim direct rule from Westminster acting through the Governor; 2) Provision for special criminal process and civil recovery of assets arising out of any criminal or other

investigations prompted by this report, including trial by judge alone and partial reversal of the burden of proof; 3) Improvement of standards of integrity in public life; 4) Statutory reform of the system for administration and disposal of Crown land in the form of a Crown Land Ordinance (already partly in draft), so as to remove or severely reduce the scope for corruption and loss without appropriate return of the territory’s most valuable asset; 5) On return of the territory to ministerial government, amendment of the 2006 Constitution or, with a view to a new constitution, reform of the franchise and removal or reduction of constitutional imbalances and weaknesses; And 6) Review, in consultation with the TCI Bar Association, of The Legal Profession Ordinance.

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A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day

PUSHING AWAY DEVELOPMENT?

LAST week the Minister for Infrastructure, Amanda Misick, said the recent ruling of Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale against a 12-storey construction in Grace Bay could steer development away from the TCI. What are your thoughts?

Destroyed That is the sort of nonsense we have come to

expect from these clowns.

If she had ever been to a high end luxury destination she would know that beauty and privacy are everything.

‘Beautiful by Nature,’ destroyed by our politicians will be the mantra of our children.

Do some work

I very much hope so. The last thing we need is a 12-storey behemoth on our beautiful beaches.

I wish the Government would actively seek out intelligent, eco-friendly resort projects, rather than sitting back and accepting old, frayed, ugly concepts like high-rise developments.

There are so many incredible, imaginative designs out there in the world.

However, it does mean that the Government would have to do some research (some work).

How about it?

Real factors

There is a hidden tension between the incumbent PNP administration and the British government.

We have a non-representative Government in the sense of: a) The inability to be decision makers whose decisions can be perceived as autonomous.

There is a Minister of Finance in name only. It is the constitutionally embedded Chief Financial Officer who decides.

Rufus said no more money for SIPT - so why then is his word absolutely useless? Simply because the elected politicians do not have power under the present constitution. b) The decision on the 12 storey construction seems to conflict with another court decision. c) If one does not balance a number of developmental factors such as financial inflows of investment, environmental impact, socio-economic implications, resources and demographic implications of the scale of the investment, and the long term implications for the country, then ill-considered decisions are being made without necessary information.

The legalities right or wrong will be sorted out through the appeals process.

However, I seriously doubt that even one of the ministers will begin to grasp, much less seriously consider, these very real factors which mature democracies all have embedded in their developmental legislation.

Amateurs at work Developers are more likely to come if the

Physical Development Plan that was supposedly started in 2013 was actually completed.

This is the document that outlines which parcels are targeted for what kind of development.

And, as Chief Justice Ramsay Hale noted in her ruling on the proposed 12-storey development, according to TCI law, one can’t modify the development manual without it conforming to the Physical Development Plan.

Now the TCIG is trying to backdoor the changes they want by changing the Planning Ordinance.

That piecemeal approach is not the way to attract investors and build confidence investors.

Looks like amateurs at work.

Wrong approach

Whether we like it or not, the Chief Justice’s ruling is correct. There should have been a development plan and she cannot close her eyes to the laws because both parties who served as the Government followed a consistent but albeit wrong approach.

I do know that former directors since 1997 have asked for a development plan and now the chickens have come home to roost.

The decision was in response to a judicial review of the Government’s change in policy taken with no consultation which is a breach of the constitution.

Many may be weary by now of hearing the PDM Opposition calling for the Government to follow this principle outlined in the constitution.

I heard the debate in the House of Assembly and heard the Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson speak to the consultation obligation under the Environmental Charter.

My mind immediately went to the question asked by Mrs Kathleen Wood of the ministers when they held a meeting after the decision to change the policy that was made.

Mrs Wood asked what was the intention or objective of the meeting and if in fact the decision had been made already to which Hon Washington Misick replied that the regulation was already changed and that he was not sure what the meeting was to accomplish.

This approach and the statement by the Hon minister has certainly showed the dictator style attitude of this Government.

The Premier did say sometimes, there needs to be a benevolent dictator.

Give us a say I believe this is a fight between we the people and

the Grace Bay Boys and I find the Government hypocritical as they are changing and fighting for the incoming Grace Bay Boys to whom they

have already made promises.

Instead of doing it right, they went to the House and tried to change the law to decide to build this country how they wish without consultation.

As a Turks and Caicos Islander, I would like a say.

The CJ’s ruling simply tells us to get it right and it chided the Government in its approach to consultation.

We need a development plan. I have heard the Opposition since year one asking for a development plan.

We need to determine how we want to build our country and not let anyone inside or outside dictate this.

We should not alter policy based on applications but we should lead on this and determine how we want to see our country develop.

Yes we must give the existing developers and those who want to come comfort but more importantly we cannot have the tail wagging the dog and we cannot have the people on the outside looking on at any Government - PNP or PDM making decisions to change our way of life.

Three problems

What truly is steering developers away from the TCI is three things: Failures of the developments vetted, started and failing under Minister Amanda’s party.

Second the trials delayed for three long years and just starting with cries by attorneys for more delays.

Third is Amanda herself is a PNP minister.

Why spend millions in a country with voters who would re-elect the same party charged with corruption.

Look in the mirror

The monuments to PNP development failure are everywhere and Amanda blames the Supreme Court?

Look in the mirror and your side of parliament.

It will take a change in Government to restore faith in the TCI as a platform for development.

Developers are frightened that under a continuation of the PNP they will be, as all the other developments, solicited for bribes.

Beaches paid a huge fine and have opted not to buy Washy’s Alexandra for a bargain price out of receivership.

PNP problems

Every day we drive by the PNP development St Charles place. Seventeen expats bought suites and never occupied them.

When we take the ferry to Provo we look over at Dellis Cay. High income folks bought houses for big money; houses never finished.

Minister Amanda does not understand what her party has done to our nation.

Lacklustre attitude

Wrong again. Weight that position against the report commissioned by her Government at a cost of $250k and prepared for their review.

To date their lacklustre attitude towards the findings spoke volume.

These guys don’t get it. Listen to the customers for once.

They do not want volume and monstrosity, instead they want quality and they will continue to pay for this product.

Why try to change something that is working for us instead of trying to improve on what made us the envy of the Caribbean.

If you think that 12 storeys is bad wait until

the new fast food franchise (Outback Steak House) is opened in Grace Bay to be followed by all the other ones, Burger king, KFC, Wendy’s, McDonald’s etc.

Then we can kiss goodbye our reputation as being a high end destination.

Respect the people

The reaction of the Hon Minister, Amanda Misick, may well produce the odd result that she fears.

However, the approach of the Government in carrying out its public consultation functions must be considered bizarre, if not, insulting to a thinking democracy and populace.

Small wonder it did not evoke a massive outcry from the Opposition and the public as a stakeholder in a valid civil society.

The minister opens the consultation by stating that the decision to increase the height limitation was already approved by Cabinet.

It made the entire idea of consultation and compliance with the Planning Ordinance a nonsense. It was an insult to the people and the entire TCI community.

No developer should ever be that more important than our people.

Ministers have this saying that ‘he who pays the piper, calls the tune’. That was a falsehood in these Islands always and now that we are paying our taxes, our way, we the people must call the tune.

Who is controlling the Government and these political parties in these Islands?

The fact of the matter is that investors, if they are quality investors, would not want to come to a country where laws are not followed, ministers do what they like, there are rules for some and not for all.

Sophisticated, well-regulated investors know full well that the approach taken by the Government was obtuse and wrong.

The fallout, the disaster and deficits are too great and risky.

Just respect the people, consult, provide a voice to all. This decision signals that ministers cannot break the law and is good for the islands short and long-term future.

Our opportunity

The Turks and Caicos Islands is one of the very few pristine oases left in the whole world.

We now have a unique opportunity to become the best.

Instead of pipe dreams and means for a few to enrich themselves, let us all work together, use all our education and experience.

Let us not give in to those who like to divide and rule.

The TCI needs to clean up, go all green (enough of your ‘green energy’ charade, FortisTCI), say a radical NO to such nonsense as dolphin torture shows, and instead of stealing from national parks, make this whole country one great national reserve.

Eco tourism is growing huge. Dolphinariums, high rise buildings and other such circuses are nowadays liked by fewer people than ever.

Let us not waste this opportunity.

 BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com

10 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Michael Misick maintains he is being politically persecuted

BY OLIVIA ROSE FORMER Premier Michael Misick has maintained his position that he is being politically persecuted for his struggle for political sovereignty in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Misick on Thursday (December 17) after Justice Paul Harrison dismissed all motions brought before the court in his corruption trial told reporters that he is being “politically persecuted”.

“I’m completely innocent of all the charges, I’m being politically persecuted because of my views and because of my desire and because of the fact that I want us to develop our own country and move towards political independence and this is not something that the British Government embraces.”

Misick added: “It’s an age old story, if you can’t discredit the message then

you discredit the messenger.”

He emotionally noted that during his tenure as Premier his administration toiled to ensure development in the TCI. “So we are on trial for our success and so the charges I believe are political and in fact I think none of us should be on trial.”

When asked about his confidence in receiving a fair trial, the former Premier expressed dismay at the fact that since the process has started no motions were won on the defendants’ side.

“We have not won one motion, before the Supreme Court and we made 20 motions, so clearly, we must’ve been right at least one time and so I will ask the viewers to read into that.”

He believes that this trial will set a dangerous precedence for all Turks and Caicos Islanders.

“This trial is about every Turks and Caicos Islander, an islander’s

Former Premier Michael Misick

right to a fair trial and the justice system and if I have to be the scapegoat to fight for justice so be it.

“But all of this goes to show that, it’s an uphill battle for justice.”

When asked about his preparedness for trail Misick told

MILLS MUSES

When you fight the system, it fights back?

RECENTLY, I wrote an article titled, ‘Playing real politics.’ It was about a young member of parliament in a Caribbean country who spoke of his attempts to make certain adjustments to the political system, being critical of certain practices.

He even mentioned that when you fight the government, it fights back. Well, the system did so by not supporting him as a candidate for the next elections.

But the situation has taken a new turn, with a veteran parliamentarian joining in the fight.

He states, according to a popular local paper, that the younger member mentioned above focused too heavily on education when utilising resources when the ideal would be to distribute them to benefit all ages and social brackets.

This veteran politician notes further that some of the young politicians’ intentions may be good, but good intentions and their implementation are not always easy and that a number of them appear naïve and present themselves in an arrogant way which masks the goodwill they have.

The member again observes that these younger persons put their view of political philosophy on the people without them being involved.

claimed that he is ready and prepared to face the court and the charges against him, a big stick that has been wielded by the SIPT team over the past few years in and out of court is that he, Misick, sought to evade prosecution when he fled the TCI in 2009, and eventually had to be extradited from Brazil back to TCI to face his fate.

In 2012, the former Premier was detained in Rio de Janeiro

by Brazilian Federal Police on an international warrant.

He was later deported to the TCI in January 2014, and was greeted by droves of residents in what some described as a “hero’s welcome”.

The charges were formerly laid against him and he appeared before the then Chief Justice Edwin Goldsbrough and placed on $10 million bail, which was guaranteed in land and property by ten Belongers and friends of the former Premier.

The entire amount pledged $12 million - exceeded the set $10 million when finally calculated.

Misick was also placed on very strict restrictions by the court, some of which have since been relaxed.

Police see a decrease in crime this December

BY DAISY HANDFIELD

BY OLIVER MILLS

Oliver Mills is a former lecturer in education at the UWI Mona Campus. He holds a BA (Hons.) UWI, an M.Ed. Dalhousie Univ., an MA University of London, and a Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and Training, Leicester Univ. He currently writes a Column for the TC Weekly News.

He comes on the side of age and experience and regards this, joined with youth and energy as what are needed to move forward.

This veteran member also said that if the young parliamentarian noted above had given out some ply board, zinc, and education, the situation would be better balanced.

What he is really saying is that constituents require practical benefits too.

I see here two strategies the system uses to fight back. The first is not selecting its critics to contest a seat the next time around and the second is the opposition of older politicians to the political style of younger politicians.

Traditional politicians do not like to be described as ‘old.’ And whether in government or opposition would find some way later of getting even with those they regard as arrogant, and not

reporters that as his counsel states he is being politically persecuted for his firm views on political sovereignty in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Misick expressed his disenchantment with the fact that he is still being tried on several counts when he was extradited from Brazil on one charge.

“It was my legitimate expectation to be tried on one count, so I’m very disappointed that the state did not honour its agreement in relation to my extradition from Brazil.

“Nevertheless we’re not surprised at the ruling, the deck is stacked against myself and all my codefendants, but that will not deter us.

“We will continue to fight to clear our name and fight for justice and fight for a fair trial we obviously have our doubts whether we’ll be able to accomplish that, it’s a fight that we will continue to engage in.

“So standing on principle, so if it means that I have to go to jail for a hundred years for what I believe in, then so be it, but I’m innocent and there will be no way of me pleading guilty to anything.”

Although he has also consistently

wait their turn.

We have seen in the TCI where the system fights back when a member in Government is seen as a threat or as overstepping the line.

Some have been pressured to resign, demoted, or transferred.

Or, the selection of constituency candidates being managed to ensure ‘safe results.’

In some countries the system fights back by floating scandals about persons, discouraging ambitious others and belittling the performance of those whose popularity makes it uncomfortable.

Or underfunding a function, making it appear the person managing it is incompetent.

We need to craft an effective system which resolves issues ethically, where there is no need to fight it and no need for it to fight back.

PRESS officer at the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), Audley Astwood, said in a recent interview that the numbers for burglaries for the month of December 2015 are far less than the number for the month of December 2014, so far.

During an interview with the officer on Friday (December 18), Astwood said that although there is a decrease in numbers, people should still remember to be cautious with how they dispense their personal information over social media pages such as Facebook.

He said that an example would be revealing over social media the purchase of a new expensive item or the revelation of specific travelling dates which mean homes being unattended.

This action is a common mistake and scenario that can get someone robbed, Astwood said.

“Be mindful of suspicious persons or suspicious activities in the neighbourhood.

“It is better to call police and verify that a person is going about their day to day business than not call and find out that it is a burglar in the neighbourhood.”

The officer reminded residents

Audley Astwood, press officer at the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force

to be suspicious of vehicles driving slowly and circulating the neighbourhood because it could be a thief looking for an easy target.

With the Christmas season nearby, Astwood said that a lot of late-night shopping tends to take place which adds to the potential danger of being a victim to crime.

He reiterated for people to always be cautious of their surroundings and to not be on their cell phones or any electronic devices while out late at night because it is a distraction and could easily make someone an easy target for criminals.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

NEWS 11

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Blood Bank in critical need of blood

BY DAISY HANDFIELD

A TEXT message was dispensed nationally on behalf of the Turks and Caicos Islands Blood Bank last week, notifying residents that the bank was in critical need of blood.

The message urged for residents to be kind enough to donate blood to the bank.

In an interview with the medical technologist for the public health lab, Ricardo Missick, on Tuesday (December 15) he said that people with all blood types are welcome to visit the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales or the Cockburn Medical Centre in Grand Turk to donate blood.

Missick said: “Blood stocks are down and we need to get blood

stocks up.

“We usually try to keep at least 15 units of blood for Providenciales and at least five units or more for Grand Turk.”

Missick said that the Turks and Caicos Islands is now in the season where a lot of accidents tend to occur and even where a lot of surgeries have to be performed.

He said: “On a month to month basis the blood bank seeks assistance to donate and keep the levels up.”

Although it is quite evident that the TCI population is increasing on an annual basis, Missick explained that only a small percentage of the people’s blood is able to be used, for a number of reasons.

He encouraged everyone who is 17 or older and in good health, to go

down to the hospital from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8am and 4.30pm and state that they are interested in donating blood.

If it is a large group that is interested in donating blood, the blood bank will facilitate those individuals on a weekend.

The blood bank and the blood supplying system have been divided

into two major activity centres; one is the inventory and the supply chain side, which falls under the administrative control of the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry of Health is responsible for contacting donors and bringing them in to donate blood.

Then, there is the transfusion service which is under the laboratory

Under the tree

at InterHealth Canada.

The donors go and they donate a unit of blood which receives initial testing then it goes to the main hospital lab where the testing is repeated and if the physician deems that the patient needs a blood transfusion, then they complete the testing and do the transfusion at the laboratory.

By Benneth Williams

Medical technologist for the public health lab, Ricardo Missick

COMMENTARY

Holiday rebirth THE HOLIDAY season is upon us and as always signals rebirth, renewal.

Despite the turmoil of the world at large and the continuing disappointments here at home we will now pause to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Let us reflect for a moment on why this yearly event is the most important holiday in the history of mankind.

Christ was and is the son of the creator who came to save mankind from itself.

Jesus taught us to turn from greed and to reach out in humility to each other.

This is a lesson for the whole world and for the Turks and Caicos Islands which has been on a different path for a dozen years.

BY DAVID TAPFER

David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011

We look forward to the Christmas season here in Middle Caicos. The Christmas tree lighting will signal once again that rebirth, that renewal here on the mother island.

We will celebrate Christmas with our families and friends. Christmas renewal will become nourishment for our souls and holiday meals nourishment for our bodies.

Christmas should refocus our attention on our children and grandchildren who we must instruct in the lessons of Jesus so that they will carry on to lead us properly in the future.

God knows we and they must turn away from greed to seek our own humility.

The New Years’ resolution most important for the people of the TCI

is to consider what has gone before for an entire generation of 20 years.

Children have been born, grown and had their own children during that period.

Then during that same period we have moved from honest Government serving all the people to Government and leadership which began by mocking an honest leader for his Christianity.

Then went on to teach our youth examples of greed and lust. Our children have inherited the wind!

2016 is the season to look outside the box. To stop being taken for granted and return to our roots.

It is the healthy roots planted and grown by the PDM that gave TCI potential prosperity.

Prosperity first side-tracked, now stalled. Prosperity can only

be realised under an honest Government capable of repairing the damage.

Monuments of the failures of greed and lust are everywhere in both faulty concrete and selfserving policies.

People need only to open their eyes. Worshiping the golden calf not only turned us away from the 10 commandments given to Moses but from the humble important lessons of Christ.

2016 is an election year.

A year to resolve to return to a people’s honest thoughtful Government and finally begin the process of the TCI rebirth, then rebuilding.

May all the people of the TCI have a joyous Christmas and an honest and hopeful New Year.

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Financial Services Commission gets new head A FINANCIAL services expert has been appointed to take the role of managing director of the Financial Services Commission (FSC).

Niguel Streete will take up the role in February next year.

Governor Peter Beckingham made the announcement on December 11 and added that he was pleased to accept the recommendation of the Financial Services Commission Board.

Speaking at the FSC’s annual general meeting the Governor said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Niguel Streete as the next managing director of the Financial Services Commission.

“I have spoken to Niguel on several occasions, and he brings a wealth of experience to this important and challenging position.

“He is evidently relishing the prospect of taking up this senior

position, and he should bring some interesting and valuable new perspectives to the position.

“I am also pleased that the board have specifically charged Mr Streete with fostering talent for the FSC’s senior leadership within the organisation.”

The Governor also acknowledged that the current managing director Kevin Higgins and his team had managed to implement some important changes to the FSC’s role, and he noted that they had emerged generally positively from a thorough review by the IMF this year.

“The FSC is an important part of the structure of governance in Turks and Caicos, and it is to their credit that the IMF gave overall a positive account of their findings here.

“The financial services plays a small, but important, role in the life of TCI, and I am still hopeful that the

Government and industry, especially through the formation of the new Invest TCI body, will together find ways of developing the sector.”

Speaking on the announcement of his appointment Niguel Street said: “I am delighted and honoured to be invited by the board to take up this important role in Turks and Caicos Islands.

“I am confident that, with my experience in the Eastern Caribbean, I can bring new ideas and methodologies to the FSC, as well as contribute to nurturing home grown talent within the organisation.”

Streete takes up his appointment, which is initially for an 18 month period, during February 2016.

His current appointment is Deputy Executive Director of the Grenada Authority for the Regulation of Financial Institutions (GARFIN).

He is also chairman of the National

Niguel Streete, managing director of the Financial Services Commission

Steering Committee on Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes, and chairman of the Regional Steering Committee for the establishment of a Single Currency Market in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.

Streete has over 20 years of experience in financial sector development, supervision and regulation.

He has worked as the head of the Anguilla FSC, and held several senior positions in the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

He holds an MSc with distinction in international economics, banking and finance from the Cardiff Business School, University of Wales, and a BSc in accounting from the University of the West Indies.

Misick’s return from Brazil was lawful, judge says CONTINUED FROM 

6

the papers coming up to four years.

“And if you look at that and argue through and think through the circumstances you’ll have to come to a conclusion that time now means we get on with this.

“It’s in the public interest, it’s in the interest of all the other defendants and we’ll take it at a pace to make sure that every defendant is able to keep up with the proceedings as they develop.”

Mitchell reiterated the Special Investigations Prosecution Team’s (SIPT) readiness to commence the trial.

“We’ve been ready since the judge first fixed the trial. He fixed the trial if I recall correctly sometime in 2014 and we were always ready then and before.

“But I have to say that of course the longer time has gone on the more stuff is being uncovered and the more there has been investigations into issues in the case to dot Is and cross Ts, so there obviously has been more material served.”

NO ABUSE OF PROCESS On day nine Justice Harrison gave his ruling on the arguments presented thus far in the trial.

Pronouncing on the Specialty and Abuse of Process argument put forward by QC Ralph Throne, Justice Harrison said the speciality argument is not relevant.

“In my view on these facts Mr Michael Misick had legal representation from the initial stage, even prior to his return to the Turks and Caicos Islands in January of 2014.

“He was represented by Mr Courtney Griffiths QC when the trial

date was fixed for October 2014 also for trial on December 1, 2014; the assumption is that QC was prepared and so was Mr Michael Misick.

“The fact that Mr Thorne was attained late in 2015 may well be viewed as less time, enjoyed by our other counsels, but that can’t be viewed in isolation.

“The obvious preparedness of previous legal representatives of Michael Misick must of necessity be drawn on details, of samples of the court layer upon layer of factual complexity, prepared by counsel reveals a familiarity with the evidence in the case.

“His submission in respect to one charge and charge in several counts, the speciality rule is not relevant as such. The complaints of the now several counts charge, and the treaty was not incorporated into domestic law.

“The treaty was valid for the purpose of the act of extradition.

“There was no illegality with respect to Michael Misick’s return, there was no unlawfulness.

“The return of Michael Misick from Brazil was lawful and in conformity with the treaty there was no abuse of process.

“Nor was there any abuse of process in charging Michael Misick on multiple counts.

“The specialty clause in the treaty is not valid or enforceable in domestic law, however if it was, assuming it was, which it does not it would be a complete answer to the compliant of multiple charges.

“It permits any extradition offence disclosed by the facts on which he was extradited.”

Justice Harrison also added that the Brazilian court in its statements found that the charges for crimes of

both bribery and conspiracy were made out.

He said: “The court found that, the offences are of a criminal nature which undermines the claims that extradition would lead for political crimes.

“The cases demonstrate the reference Michael Misick status in factual and no political activity or political act is alleged.

“I find that the charges were properly laid, are not of a political nature, there was no abuse of process in this respect.”

He further noted that consequences of the trial will continue; thereafter the right of appeal exists.

POSTPONEMENT OF TRIAL The application for a six months postponement of trial by Earl Witter QC who is representing former deputy Premier Floyd Hall was refused by Justice Harrison.

Justice Harrison said Hall was given sufficient time for some degree of preparation to be made.

He noted that the court has to balance all the circumstances.

He said the attorney who represented Floyd Hall from the start should be able to appraise the new team on the case.

“Delay is also a major issue that this court must take into consideration.”

Justice Harrison noted that the constitution ensures that everyone in a trial should be afforded a speedy trial.

He further noted that the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) trials will start on January 18, 2016, as scheduled.

Lead Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell also moved a motion to relax Michael Misick’s strict curfew for

the holidays.

QC Ralph Thorne told reporters that he is not satisfied that the judge’s decision settles the extradition issues.

In a perplexed demeanor Thorne noted that there is some uncertainty as it relates to the TCI’s extradition laws based on the judge’s reasoning.

“My criticism is that the law remains pretty much unsettled because Mr Misick was brought back to this country on the basis that he was being extradited and in my view, if you’re telling me that they are no extradition laws, how can you see that he was extradited.

“The Brazilians were certainly told that they were extraditing him and the Brazilians were sent documents which were called extradition documents.

“I am not satisfied that the decision tells us what the state of the laws in this country is as it relates to extradition.

“Is a person now properly extradited if he’s brought from Brazil?.

“Are you telling me that there no laws that exist in relation to his return from Brazil?”

As Thorne was left with many unanswered question Lead Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell also commenting on the judge’s verdict said that the judge was pellucid in his judgment.

Mitchell said: “He explained that there is international law and there is domestic law, international law relates to treaties, domestic law is things that are legislative.

“There is no domestic law relating to the extradition in the Turks and Caicos Islands as it affects Brazil and so he relied on the international treaty with the United Kingdom and Brazil which included the Turks and

Caicos Islands.

“There was a proper basis to extradite Mr Misick. The Brazilian courts as you know in a very thought out judgment decided that there was sufficient material on which to extradite him on the facts that were set out and then he concluded that Mr Misick was properly and lawfully back in this country.

“The next was, well is it right to include in the information matters were not in the charge were sent to Brazil and the judge agreed with the prosecution that it isn’t just about the charge but it’s also connected to the facts sent to Brazil.

“Therefore it is fair for Misick to face the same allegations as his codefendants.”

Since 2009, when they were accused of widespread corruption in the Sir Robin Auld report, Michael Misick and members of his Cabinet have awaited their time before the judge.

On January 18, 2016, the trial will proceed and several witnesses will be called to the stand.

According to Mitchell, during the Christmas break the SIPT will iron out miscellaneous administrative issues.

Subsequently he will move to the evidence from the main witnesses.

“There’s a principle witness, it’s probably going to be former Governor Richard Tauwhare.

“I can’t see that happening till after the Easter holidays, but he will definitely be called.

He also revealed that some of the more interesting witnesses will include the Attorney General.

The SIPT corruption trial will see a whopping 130 witnesses being called to the stand during the six month long trial.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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December 21 - January 8, 2016

December 21 - January 8, 2016

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

December 21 - January 8, 2016

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

New Beginnings The great peace of Almighty God, through His only begotten Son Jesus Christ and by the power of the Holy Ghost be with everyone of you now and always. Amen.

The biological composition of our bodies is such that there are continuous new beginnings of our cellular structure: they live, die and are reborn. This is in parity of our mental, physical and social lives.

Equally important is the spiritual live. God, through His most infinite mercy and grace, created a new beginning for His human creation by sending Jesus Christ as His redemption for us. The word of God says in the expression of the Angel Gabriel to Mary in the Gospel of Matthew 1:21-23, “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”

This was and is a most extraordinary new beginning which has enormously impacted the lives of billions of persons for the last two thousand years:

higher and deeper spiritual living, participation in community affairs for the betterment of our less fortunate brothers and sisters, in bolder academic accomplishments;

TURNING INTO 1. Hopelessness 1. Hope 2. Rejection 2. Acceptance 3. Darkness 3. Light 4. Hate 4. Love 5. Lost 5. Found 6. Sorrow 6. Joy 7. Storm 7. Calm 8. Unlearned and ignorant 8. Anointed scholars 9. Death 9. Life 10. Rejected 10. Eating with sinners 11. Fishermen 11. Fishers of men 12. Temporary love 12. Love to the end 13. Burial 13. Resurrection 14. Sinning 14. Forgiveness 15. Persecutors 15. Preachers of the Gospel 16. Psychotic 16. Mental competent 17. Flow of blood 17. Instant stoppage 18. The high and lifted up 18. Holy humility 19. Good excitement 19. Godly inspiration 20. Doubt 20. Assurance

Resolve within and to yourself that this Christmas season, you will commence, through the power of Jesus Christ, new beginnings of

a new beginning of church attendance and worship, of proliferating brotherly love and charity.

I make a solemn and holy

call that you be at peace within yourselves and with one another. Let there be a new beginning where you will banish all hatred, jealousy, evil speaking, backbiting, concaving, and unruliness.

This season of new beginnings must also include an honest and improved relationship with one’s parents both in love, care and financial support. One can best adjudge a child by the manner in which one cares for one’s parents. Righteously so, make a new beginning by giving support and prayers to the fuller extended family of brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles.. Resolve that you will make a new beginning of daily prayers and scripture reading in your family as per the Godly advise laid out in Psalm 11:-9-11, “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 10 With my whole heart have I sought

By Bishop Clarence Nathaniel Williams, CA, PA, JP National Overseer/Bishop of Turks and Caicos The Church of God of Prophecy

thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

To those who might be addicted, partially indulging in or experiencing a) narcotic and alcoholic consumption, b) unhealthy and unholy sexual intercourse, c) violent road rage, d) a good dose of highmindedness e) contempt for elders and authority f) Contemplating serious crimes of rape, murder, thief, etc. g) and all other matters of sinful conduct and development I sincerely pray to the Lord and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you with your decision to forsake such wrong and make this important new beginning for your own sake in the name of Jesus Christ.

Finally, resolve that you

will make a new beginning this Christmas time that you will not let anyone hinder you from achieving the maximum of the doors that God has and will open to you.

It is also important and necessary that a new beginning be seen in your positive contribution to your country enhancing your contribution to the good commerce and righteous integrity connected to your place of residence.

My entire person and church family and friends join me in extending to everyone of you a Christ-filled and centered Christmas and the journey of a great, prosperous and healthy new 2016.

Blessings of God be upon all of you. Love you unto the end. Read John 13:1b.

Given with joy unspeakable and full of glory from Providenciales; Sunday, this 13th day of December in the year of my Blessed Lord and Saviour, two thousand and fifteen. Amen.

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18 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Consul speaks on alleged mistreatment of Haitians

BY DAISY HANDFIELD

AFTER recent complaints from 28 Haitian nationals about being mistreated, the consul responsible for Haitians in the TCI, Karlo Pelissier, said that he can neither confirm nor deny that Haitians in the TCI are mistreated.

The Haitian nationals accused their employer of underpayment and other issues pertaining to their work permits.

During an interview with Pelissier at the consulate office in Providenciales on Thursday (December 17) he refused to comment much on the matter because according to him, the situation was already resolved during a meeting with the accused employer and the 28 employees.

He said: “I cannot say that

Haitians in the Turks and Caicos are mistreated.

“I can say that some of them complain that they are mistreated but a lot of times we listen to the situations.

“I also cannot say that it does not happen because most of the times when there is a big problem I always find a way to solve them.”

The Haitian consul said that a lot of times these problems are just a matter of ‘miscommunication’ between the employer and employee(s).

Pelissier said that his job is to encourage Haitians in the TCI positively and advise them so that they can be better integrated into the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“If the Haitian community tells me that they have problems, of course I will listen to them and advise them

because I would like for them to have a good relationship with their employer, because they come here to work so it is better for them to have a good relationship with their employer.

“Whatever problem they have I will try my best to see if I can contact the employer or maybe contact the Labour Department to seek better advice so that I can give them,” Pelissier said.

The Haitian consul concluded that he prefers Haitian nationals to turn to him first when they have a problem as opposed to taking immediate action without considering the potential consequences.

He said that he was sent to the TCI by the Haitian government in order for the TCI and Haiti to continue to have a positive relationship.

PDA demands more attention for police force THE ROYAL Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is not being given the attention or resources it requires to be strong and effective, according to the Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA).

In a strongly worded press release on Friday, December 11, party leader Oswald Skippings said that action must be taken now.

“While there are committed, hardworking police officers who are desirous of seeing the force improve and become a more effective and productive entity in protecting the people and preventing and solving crime, there seems to be little if any light at all at the end of the tunnel in terms of the force getting the kind of attention needed to make these desires a reality.”

He stressed that the increasingly challenging job of police officers demands skills that can only be obtained by professional ongoing training which is not forthcoming.

Among other things, he said, the force needs up to date equipment and facilities to deal with the nature and frequency of crime that is now plaguing the TCI on a daily basis.

“There needs to be recognition and embracement of existing talent and long term and committed service within its ranks.

“Moreover, there needs to be an

elimination of the unfair and bias system of promotion within the ranks of the force which also began from the interim administration and continues to date.”

While crime is on the increase, there seems to be little forward thinking that is being done to prevent, manage or solve crime, Skippings said.

“In spite of the fact that there may be 10,000 people in the nation’s capital on any given day when the cruise ships are in, there is a constant depletion of police officers in Grand Turk to the extent that the force is now only 23 in strength.

“In fact, there were about eight transfers a weeks or so ago and there is a continuous transfer programme still going on almost weekly.

“Instead of the four shift schedule, there is now a three shift schedule in Grand Turk because of the shortage of officers.”

The party leader added that frustration among officers in Grand Turk is mounting and reports are that both the CID and Drug Squad in Grand Turk have been closed down since 2012 resulting in young and inexperienced officers being burdened with having to deal with all crimes.

“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.”

He said that 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,” Skippings stated.

“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 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.”

Karlo Pelissier, Haitian Consul responsible for Haitians in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Zika virus spreads to Caribbean – Ministry of Health advises public to avoid mosquito bites A MOSQUITO-borne disease, which was first identified in Chile in February last year, has since spread to Brazil, Columbia and the Caribbean.

In November the Caribbean Public Health Agency confirmed five cases of the zika virus in a territory of the Caribbean Community.

However, a press release on Wednesday (December 16) from the Ministry of Health confirmed that so far no cases of zika have been detected in the TCI. The disease is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, which attack mostly during the daytime.

The same mosquito is also responsible for dengue and chikungunya.

The most common symptoms of zika virus are mild and include fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes (conjunctivitis).

Other symptoms include muscle pain, headache, pain behind the eyes, and vomiting.

Severe disease requiring hospitalisation is uncommon.

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for zika. Anyone that suspects they have zika should see their healthcare provider.

According to the Ministry of Health: “To relieve fever and pain associated with the virus, it is recommended that persons drink lots of fluids and take pain relievers such as paracetamol.

“Aspirin, Advil, Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided.

“In order to protect yourself from mosquito bites use insect repellents on exposed skin, when

weather permits, wear longsleeved shirts and long pants and use air conditioning or window/ door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

“If you are not able to protect yourself from mosquitoes in your home, sleep under a mosquito bed net.”

It is even more critical for women who are pregnant to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

A link between mothers who had zika virus in pregnancy and an increased incidence of microcephaly in infants born to them is currently being investigated.

Microcephaly is a condition where the size of an infant’s head is smaller than normal, because of slowed or incomplete brain development.

The Environmental Health Department has enhanced its vector control activities to reduce mosquito breeding sites in addition to stepping up fogging.

Members of the public are urged to eliminate breeding sites for mosquitoes by keeping their surroundings clean.

“Cover or turn over containers.

Tightly cover drums and rain barrels as well as boats and wading pools. Get rid of or cover old tires. Properly dispose of all garbage and refuse.

“Clean rain gutters and make sure they are flowing properly.

Inspect your home and yard weekly,” the release read.

The public can call the Environmental Health Department on 338-2143 or 3382145 to ask them to treat large bodies of stagnant water on or around their property.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 19

FortisTCI names pioneers of the TCI electricity utility industry THE COUNTRY’s sole electricity provider FortisTCI recognised five former electricity utility industry professionals recently, honouring them with the ‘FortisTCI Pioneer Award’.

This annual award recognises a broad cross section of individuals that have contributed to the electricity industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

This year’s honourees are

The Towers of Babel Art is our language For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com

DARLING

BY TWIS FLO

Words can’t explain the pain I just might go insane And if you don’t relieve the pain, it might take my breath away Believe in what I have to say Take me now, don’t go away I know your feelings hurt, but for what it’s worth I really didn’t want this We can overcome this You hurt me, I hurt you Let’s be mature about this Look inside your heart deep down you’ll find you had a part...

In this situation you had me hurt and crying, so I took shelter with people I didn’t care about Times I needed you the most, I didn’t know your whereabouts Most times when I’m suicidal, looking to you for revival, you give me more problems I love you that’s what the truth is; even though you never cared about my music And even though it seems you never cared about my dreams or anything about me that excluded you.

This is the end?

No more trying to make you smile after you grated my heart for thousands of miles Let’s pretend you never pushed me away, though you pushed me to towards making those mistakes today When I’m at my lowest You seem to find a deeper hole to push me through So I’m never forgetting the feeling of fallen Never forgetting the feeling of falling apart, only forgetting the feeling of falling in love, heart tearing apart You pushed me from a ledge So it’s ironic how allegedly, you’re blaming me for falling from your grace Before I took you with arms wide open I was a little tattered and torn but I was not broken You did that to me and you made me realise it You were meant to be my light but you increased the darkness in me And although deep down my in bones, my soul mumbled for something more While I stumbled through cracks in hell my whole world crumbled My ego, pride and self worth was pummeled by the existence of love for you So tell me.

Is this the end?

Claridge Wilson, Ernie Jackson, Wayne Douglas, and the late Eric Seymour (represented by his wife Gladys Seymour) and the late Ken Lighbourne (represented by his son Brian Lightbourne).

The FortisTCI Pioneer Award is an acknowledgment to those that set the foundation and significantly contributed to the growth and development of the country’s electricity industry.

In a press release on Thursday (December 17) FortisTCI president and CEO Eddinton Powell said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands can boast of having one of the best electricity services available in the region.

“We recognise that to get where we are today it took great knowledge, tremendous vision, and great workmanship by notable industry professionals.

“We honour these individuals who have blazed the path as pioneers, and the torch of service and excellence has been passed on to a new generation.”

The company has plans in 2016 to create a wall of honour to publicly display the names of ‘Electricity Industry Pioneers’ at its headquarters in Providenciales.

The late Eric Seymour is a former power house supervisor, chief engineer, electrical superintendent and electricity commissioner that served the Turks and Caicos Islands from 1969 to 2003.

He gained his initial training and experience as a merchant marine with American Coast Lines where he worked his way from a junior engineer in 1953 to chief engineer in 1969.

He eventually joined the TCI civil service and served as chief engineer

FortisTCI CEO Eddington Powell

and electrical superintendent.

During this time, he oversaw the erection and distribution of electricity to many areas of the Turks and Caicos Islands that had not had electricity previously.

In 1992, he took up early retirement from the civil service and took the opportunity to serve his country as electricity commissioner, a post he held until he retired completely from active duty in 2003.

The late Ken Lightbourne began his service with Provo Power Company (PPC) as an operator in 1989.

A former line superintendent he was known as one of the first to take safety seriously.

He also had a passion for developing employees who worked in transmission and distribution and took pride in helping them grow

professionally.

When he passed away in 2002, he was serving as the company’s superintendent of distribution.

Claridge Wilson served with Provo Power Company as the electrical plant superintendent, having been employed by the company from 1992 until 2005.

A well respected professional in the industry, he played a major role in the installation of Caterpillar engines at the Providenciales plant.

He was also responsible for dayto-day plant maintenance throughout the Caicos Islands.

Ernie Jackson, an electrical engineer by trade, joined PPC in May 1998 as chief engineer.

He led developments and upgrades on the T&D Systems throughout the Caicos Islands.

One of his many major projects was the conversion of overhead lines in Grace Bay to underground.

He was promoted to FortisTCI vice president of production and engineering in September of 2007 and served in this capacity until his departure.

Wayne Douglas joined PPC in November 1998 as plant mechanical superintendent and is known as a friend to all.

On the job he believed in teamwork, family, and community, possessing a knack for keeping people motivated.

His professional skills were fabrication and mechanical engineering.

He had since served as a consultant of special projects with FortisTCI. His role was instrumental in the logistics and commissioning of the new Wartsila Engines.

New Deputy Chief Valuation Officer appointed MICHELE Grey has been appointed as Deputy Chief Valuation Officer within the Valuation Department, according to a Government press release on Thursday (December 17).

She will be working in the Lands Division under the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Grey, who was elected a professional member of the RICS in 2008, is a chartered valuation surveyor with a wealth of experience in property valuation and property tax assessment.

She also has an MBA in international business, a BSc (Hons) in estate management and a Diploma in land economy and valuation surveying.

Prior to joining the valuation team, she worked at the National

Deputy Chief Valuation Officer Michele Grey

Land Agency (NLA) Jamaica where she assisted with the management of a property portfolio numbering over 180,000 parcels of land.

She has led numerous valuation projects for road expansion and portfolio valuations and was integral in the ongoing property revaluation exercise.

She served as co-chair of the NLA’s Welfare Committee and was a member of the Procurement Committee.

She has been on the executive council of the Association of Land Economy and Valuation Surveyors (ALEVS) for the last three years as chair of the Event Planning and Fund Raising Committee and treasurer of the association.

She coordinated several training courses, some in collaboration with RICS, geared towards continuing professional development for valuers and the wider surveying profession.

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

‘Drastic’ increase in voter registration THERE was a large increase in the number of people applying to be on the voters’ register this year.

That is according to supervisor of elections Lister Dudley Lewis, who gave an update on the registration process in a press release on Wednesday (December 16).

Lewis said: “There has been a drastic increase in the number of applications received to compare with previous years.

“However, I was disappointed with the number of persons who

applied to be added to the register and were not eligible because they were not in possession of Turks and Caicos Islander or Belonger status or submitted required documents to the Ministry of Border Control to support their applications.

“Voter registration in the Turks and Caicos Islands is a continuous process and the elections office in Grand Turk and Providenciales, also District Commissioner’s offices, will continue to accept registration applications however,

all applications received after November 30 will be retained for the 2017/18 electors’ register.”

Lewis confirmed that registration of voters for the 2016/17 register concluded on November 30.

For this registration process and to assist with increasing the number of people on the register the Government exempted fees for documents that supported the issue of status cards.

The fee exemption began on September 1 and ended November 30.

NATIONAL STATUS CARD

MALE

PERCENTAGE MALE

FEMALE

PERCENTAGE FEMALE

TOTAL MALE + FEMALE

PERCENTAGE (MALE + FEMALE)

Persons with Status

232

23.79

216

25.44

448

24.56

Persons without Status Card

743

76.21

633

74.56

1376

75.44

GRAND TOTAL

975

849

1824

The following is registration application statistical information from September 1 to November 30.

New Director of Culture is appointed LUDWINA Fulford has been appointed as the new Director of Culture within the Ministry of Tourism.

In a Government press release on Thursday (December 17) Fulford said that she is grateful for the opportunity.

“It has always been my desire to work in the public service, assisted by the TCI Government with my studies, the civil service was always my first choice for employment.

“The Culture Department by its very nature dictates an inter-sectorial approach to the fulfilment of its mandate.

“It is, therefore, my intention to embrace the contributions and involvement of both the public and private sectors.

“As an advocate of a cooperative approach, I am committed to fostering team spirit and unity among my staff and all other stakeholders in culture.”

Fulford graduated in the top five of the 2001 graduating class of HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk.

She went on to successfully complete a Certificate and Associate Degree in Business Studies from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and later received a Bachelor of Arts in government and international relations and a Master’s Degree in management from the Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

New Director of Culture Ludwina Fulford

She was an employee of Scotiabank TCI for the last seven years as both personal banking officer and business banking manager.

Deputy Governor Anya Williams said: “Ms Fulford in addition to her academic strengths is also clearly a civic minded individual, which is evidenced through her involvement in the Rotaract Club of Grand Turk where she has held several positions

throughout the years including sergeant at arms, fund raising director, club services director, president, assistant district Rotaract representative and immediate past president.

“She performed exceptionally well in the recent recruitment exercise and we look forward to her joining our team and progressing cultural initiatives here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Christmas Message 2015 from The Rt Rev’d. Laish Boyd LUKE 1:31 and 32: ‘And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus.

‘He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David.’

A man once told the story of how his father died suddenly in the early 1960s.

This “earthquake” changed his family’s life drastically: his mother had to cease being a housewife and go out to work; his sister had to leave university and return home to find a job; and his brother had to leave high school and find a job.

Even though he was only in primary school at the time he can remember how hard it was for the family to survive.

In times past he knew no discomfort or want, but now came many years of hardship, want and going without.

Sometimes life brings unexpected, startling, disruptive and even tragic events. They leave us reeling or put us into a tailspin.

This is what it must have been like for Mary, a young, innocent girl preparing for the next phase of her life, ie. to leave her parents’ home and to be married to a man named Joseph, to whom she had been betrothed.

All of a sudden she is pregnant and the Holy Spirit is the Father.

Talk about shattering your world!

In Mary’s case, her world did come back together: Joseph was a decent man who was prepared to put her aside quietly rather than make her a public spectacle.

After an angel spoke to him, he did marry her. They seemed to have made it well together, even having other children after Jesus.

Jesus was born into an earthly home at Nazareth for the forgiving of our sins and for the salvation of the world.

No single life has had a greater effect on human history than the life of Jesus.

The Christmas Story reminds us, firstly, that the catastrophes of life – no matter how devastating they might be - are survivable, even actually having favourable results in the end.

Remember Joseph’s words about being sold into slavery by his brothers, when he saw those brothers after many years.

In Genesis 45 he says that what they meant as evil (ie. selling him as a slave) God used for good (ie. to have him in place as an official in Egypt to be able to save his family and many others at the time when there was severe famine in their homeland).

Remember too the famous

Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands

image presented by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8:28: ‘All things work together for good for them that love God and we are called according to His purpose.’

What this means, among other things, is that, with God’s help, we can make something positive out of everything that happens to us, even the bad experiences.

Like lemons are used to make lemonade, and like old bottles and newspapers can be made into something useful by recycling, so with God’s help, we can process the bad - work through the painful bad - to reach a positive space.

Secondly, the Christmas Story challenges us to trust the god of Christmas to help to overcome the curveballs of life, and to encourage others to do so as well.

Life always brings unplanned occurrences, pains, heartaches and disappointments. Some threaten to overwhelm us, and some actually do overwhelm us.

The baby Jesus is a symbol of hope and a promise of overcoming. He has been that symbol for Christians all through the centuries.

He is power, blessing and fulfilment to us, and to others.

Jesus encourages us, and He calls us to encourage and to uplift others lest they be swallowed up by the storms.

This Jesus brings a peace which the world cannot give.

He brings it through us and our actions and attitudes and standards.

The hymn writer says: “And His ways are ways of gentleness and all His paths are peace. We are His agents that accomplish these ways and paths.”

On behalf of the Anglican Diocese, and my own family, I wish you a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year.

Today, pledge to do something to make a merry Christmas and a happy new year possible for some person or family that you know.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Founder of InterCaribbean Airways, Lyndon Gardiner

NEWS 21

Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy, Asot A Michael, along with Permanent Secretary within the said Ministry, Paula Frederick Hunte and other Tourism and Aviation officials were present airside to greet the Chairman of InterCaribbean Airways, Lyndon Gardiner, the CEO of InterCaribbean Airways, Trevor Sadler and passengers

InterCaribbean launches new services to Antigua and Cuba

BY DAISY HANDFIELD AN INAUGURAL ceremony was held in Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday (December 9) to welcome InterCaribbean Airways and their newly introduced flights connecting from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to Antigua and Barbuda.

Upon arrival a ceremony was held inside the VC Bird International Airport where Antiguan government officials along with CEO of InterCaribbean, Lyndon Gardiner brought remarks on the milestone.

The ceremony began with the master of ceremonies and CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin James, welcoming all of the invited guests.

“Today [December 9] is indeed a great day for Antigua and Barbuda as we mark the start of another inaugural service to our beautiful

country and to our brand new VC Bird International Airport.

“It gives me great pleasure to formally welcome InterCaribbean Airways, our newest kid on the block, our newest airline to service our beautiful twin island nation.”

He also extended a warm welcome on behalf of the prime minister, minister of tourism and all of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

During the ceremony chairman and founder of InterCaribbean Airways, Lyndon Gardiner, said that it was a pleasure for him to be in Antigua to speak on behalf of his company.

He said: “Our company started this journey of uniting the Caribbean almost 25 years ago.

“We see this step as such a very bold step in growing our network, where we have quite an interesting number of connections in the western Caribbean.

“It is very important that we understand that in order for the Caribbean to grow as a region, there needs to be more connectivity that will enhance tourism, that will enhance business and that will enhance our cultural exchanges.”

The minister of tourism for Antigua and Barbuda, Asot Michael congratulated Gardiner on the achievement and said that welcoming this new airline to their airport network was an important milestone in them achieving their goals of increasing passenger traffic while also expanding their network of airlines.

“This new service is incredibly exciting for Antigua and Barbuda and our new VC Bird international airport as it further strengthens our position as an aviation hub in the Caribbean. “Antigua is now also in the perfect position to offer visitors and residents a one stop connection

to the Bahamas, Panama, Cuba, Jamaica and their home base in the Turks and Caicos Islands by partnering with InterCaribbean airways.”

“Not only did InterCaribbean Airways bring with them a vast network, they offer more flights within the islands of the western Caribbean than any other airline,” Michael said.

Ambassador, Brian Challenger brought brief remarks on behalf of the ministry of civil aviation.

He said: “We are really excited about this new opportunity.

“We are particularly pleased that it is a Caribbean airline as we strengthen our ties with the Caribbean.

“For a number of years now we have seen declining numbers from the Caribbean so we see this as a positive boost to promoting those regional numbers and getting them

Sandals expands to Mexico SANDALS resorts is set to expand the world renowned brand with two resorts to open in Mexico.

Speaking at the resort chain’s annual Travel Agent Awards STAR Awards earlier this week chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart said that Mexico has become a very important player in the global travel industry.

He told travel agents from across the world that he is in talks with Mexican authorities concerning two resorts in a major tourism district of the Central

American country.

“The investment environment in Mexico is especially good and our talks with them are encouraging.

“Their approach to taxation is very pro-business and have paid tremendous dividends to their tourism product.

“It represents an historic move for our company into central America.”

He continued: “The government of Mexico has invested enormous resources into tourism infrastructure, an indication of the

importance they attach to travel and tourism.”

Stewart also identified the Dominican Republic as another potential area of expansion for the 34 year-old resort company.

Sandals, which is the parent company of Beaches, has been in the Turks and Caicos Islands with its family brand since 1995 when it acquired the Royal Bay resorts.

Today it operates more than 750 rooms and suites across four villages and is the largest employer in the country with 1,900 employees.

Chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart

back up again.”

The ceremony concluded with the minister of tourism, Asot Michael, founder of InterCaribbean, Lyndon Gardiner and CEO for InterCaribbean, Trevor Sadler toasting to the new partnership and to the inaugural ceremony.

On December 10 the airline inaugurated in Santiago de Cuba.

Service from interCaribbean Airways will later be expanded to Punta Cana and allow for same day connections with other European airlines such as Aeroflot from Russia that connect via this major hub in the Dominican Republic.

InterCaribbean Airways is based in the Turks & Caicos Islands, founded 24 years to connect costumers and the Caribbean.

For travel dates and scheduling, customers can visit the interCaribbean Airways webpage, www.intercaribbeanairways.com.

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Karib - The new Turks and Caicos sensation

BY OLIVIA ROSE TCI residents can now look forward to a chic new magazine which promises to capture the life, fashion, ambience, struggles and unparalleled culture of the TCI and the Caribbean at large.

‘Karib’ is a fresh and stylish quarterly magazine which seeks to captivate and enchant readers from the first issue.

Publisher of the magazine Ange Toussaint, during an exclusive interview with the Weekly News, said she decided to launch the magazine in an effort to create a sense of solidarity and an imperative sense of connection among all TC Islanders.

She believes that her magazine will expose the plight and triumphs of the young Turks and Caicos Islander.

“I noticed that throughout the Turks and Caicos there were a number of publications that fail to really capture a particular niche and that is the young Turks and Caicos Islander, the local people who are excelling their fields and I really wanted this magazine to focus on the Turks and Caicos lifestyle.

“To sort of promote the people that are here. We have a lot of brilliant minds, a lot of businessmen and women who basically from the bottom up who are in their own right revolutionising our community and I feel like they’re not getting the recognition and the promotion and the marketing and support they need to go forward.”

Toussaint explained that the magazine was conceptualised to

Ange Toussiant, publisher of Karib magazine

showcase the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Caribbean’s exceptional traditions.

“So it’s Karib for Turks and Caicos and Caribbean, so were hoping to mostly showcase Turks and Caicos but have that Caribbean aspect.”

Toussaint highlighted the distinct difference with her publication and existing ones and why readers should ensure they grab their copies to be mesmerised as they flip through the pages.

“One of the things the reader is going to get in this magazine is the cover stories are Turks and Caicos Islanders, the inside pages are Turks and Caicos islanders.

“This is not magazine where we’re getting a feature here and there but this is a magazine by Turks and Caicos Islanders for Turks and Caicos Islanders.”

Toussaint who is also a local seasoned journalist said her

inspiration for the magazine came from her passion for giving a voice to the voiceless.

“One of the things we have is our life section where we focus on remarkable stories, say overcoming a major life tragedy, all of the stories are relatable, and it’s about people that you know.

“It’s about people you see every day, it’s about companies you shop at and this gives the reader a bit of insight, on that person, on that company, so you can appreciate it more and stories to motivate the reader as well I think that’s what makes us stand out.”

Karib will bear some striking features and an interesting perspective on every aspect of life.

The page of the magazine will be adorned with bold topics, beautiful photography and complimented by sentimental stories most of which promises to leave the reader spellbound.

“I want it to look like something you would find in the Turks and Caicos, in the Caribbean.

“I want you to pick it up, if you’re in the Bahamas, and know that this is a Caribbean publication not negating on quality but definitely bringing that Caribbean feel, our vibrancy our energy.”

Although the magazine will be launched in the first week of January, bringing it into fruition was not without its fair share of challenges.

Toussaint relayed that from the embryonic stages of the publication it was an uphill battle for her and her small team who toiled relentlessly

A sneak peek of the new Karib magazine

for an entire year to make this dream a reality.

She explained that she was faced with miscellaneous issues as she struggled to get the magazine out of her head and into the hands of readers.

“Putting this magazine together was definitely not an easy task. This idea came about over a year since I actually sat down and conceptualised Karib and it has been a lot to put this together.

“Over the course of the year there were times when I wanted to quit but with the support of few friends and family who motivated me and gave their contributions and said you have

to continue with this.”

Toussaint hopes her perseverance will inspire and motivate others to reach for their dreams and aspiration despite of challenges.

The magazines will also feature sportsmen and women, women who have made significant strides in society and in their personal lives, arts and craft, fashion, food and much more.

Karib officially hit local stores, supermarkets, bars and other convenient places where the public can uplift their free copy and embark on nostalgic journey that will certainly resurrect the deep Caribbean oneness.

Say no to drinking and driving

BY DAISY HANDFIELD POLICE officials say that during the festive season is the time that people tend to consume more alcohol and they are warning residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands against the dangers and penalties of drinking and driving.

Road traffic officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), Damian Mitchell, told media houses earlier in the week that he believes that a lot of accidents that are currently taking place are because

of people being distracted with their cell phones, tablets and other electronic devices while on the road.

He said: “Also, with people drinking and driving and with this festive season we have so many people putting it aside as something trivial but drinking and driving is something serious.

“Whilst some may say that they can control their alcohol, it always sort of breaks the edge and persons do things that they would not ordinarily do.”

Mitchell said that residents should travel with a friend who is

not a drinker or someone who is not a heavy drinker to be able to get home safely in the event of going out to a party.

“The iteration of having a designated driver cannot be iterated enough.

“Persons have to recognise that while we are on the road where we all have our eye to pass and repass on the road, outside of that we need to insure that we are responsible and there are serious litigations that can arise from person’s presence on the road.

“All of the rules of the road need to be adhere to,” Mitchell said.

The traffic officer added that there are a lot of inexperienced drivers on the road and a lot of people who are not licensed or insured.

He said: “Persons have to be on the road, who are qualified and legal to be on the road.

“Outside of that, for persons who are new drivers, we expect them to maintain what they were taught when they did their test and also to pay attention to the theoretical aspect of things because that is what really makes the difference.”

In an interview with police press

officer Audley Astwood on Friday (December 18) he reiterated that residents should look into having a designated driver in the event of going out drinking.

He said: “It is during the festive season that people consume more alcohol and take into consideration that more people are out and about on the road.

“We are asking persons to drink responsibly and if possible have a designated driver and I’m wishing everyone a very merry Christmas and a prosperous new years on behalf of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.”

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Crime: Turks and Caicos at the edge “EVERY society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is also true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on,” John F Kennedy - 35th president of the United States.

So, it has happened again. Another breaking and entering into a private house. One returns to find one’s life has been altered in a manner one never chose.

This is the moment when you realise that a house is a place where you lose count of the keepsakes that mark important moments that make that house a home.

And now, someone has entered, and trampled over so much that you hold dear, in a complete violation of privacy.

When the police arrive, another moment of destabilisation occurs.

First they ask reasonable questions and you realise how much you lived without second guessing your feeling of safety.

Gently, the officer reminds you that your neighbourhood is not safe - no matter where it is - and then, a comfort in you dies, and you begin to feel exposed and to think about new layers of ‘defensive living;’ making

an inventory of all the suspicious persons you may have seen, and as this moment hardens into anger, the innocence of - particularly young men - in your surroundings begin to rot under a new fever of suspicion.

Second, the officers ask: “What is missing?” And this leads to another feeling of devastation.

As you walk through, noticing and remembering, you find things you had not thought about for years, are now gone, ripped from their significance, and in this rough and rude moment, you are forced to recall the marvellous events that brought those things into your possession in a time of utter ugliness.

These are just some of the cruel impacts of breaking and entering, or the impact of thieves and predators who disturb privacy and wreck social peace.

I leave aside for the moment that thought that hangs in the back of the mind: What if I or my family were there? What of our safety?

What of substance will be done by the police…all of which adds to frustration, anxiety and anger.

In the days following one’s

BY PROFESSOR GILBERT NMO MORRIS home having been robbed, the neighbours, friends and relatives tell their stories.

One learns of a rash of robberies and break-ins, including ones in which guns were used.

One begins to feel that one had been living in a fantasy, thinking that one is safe, only to discover that there is not merely a criminal element in one’s own neighbourhood, but a permanent emerging criminal enterprise that formed and is expanding right under our noses.

In this moment, the victim of robberies either seeks to engage

the authorities and to examine their procedures, or to engages the community, often to find that too many have just resigned to the idea that nothing will be done, and they have grown tired of complaining, or one acquires fire power to inflict deathly harm on anyone who invades one’s home.

Whichever is one’s reaction when one is violated by these crimes, something dies in the community spirit and the possibility of maintaining our prosperity, and the reputation of our country that brings the right kind of investors and tourists to our shores, becomes a little more difficult to keep and costly to pursue.

This is how a country falls apart; by slight adjustments that allow crimes to grow; by acceptances; failure to engage as a community and exhaustion with the idea that we all must act to prevent crimes.

We grow disgusted with our policing, our prosecutorial authorities and the courts.

In a manner that is funny, throw our hands up and think we have a life to ‘get on with,’ not realising that it is that life that is being destroyed both

by these episodes of crime and our reactions. And soon, there will be no life to get on with, worthy of the name.

Nassau, (New Providence), was as Turks and Caicos is now 30 years ago.

There was prosperity, a light and delightful way of life. People walked everywhere, were neighbourly and things were good.

Today, heart-breakingly, Nassau is ranked in the top 10 of the most violent crime and murder capitals of the world, and that process of criminalisation began just as and with similar reactions to the process of these crimes now emerging and growing, particularly in Providenciales.

I can end my remarks here.

However, I think much is left to be said.

Somehow, it is my wish to awaken our community to this very real threat to our lives, and to demand not merely immediate action by the authorities, but also to say we must ALL take (not only accept) responsibility for the culture we CONTINUED 

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Crime: Turks and Caicos ...

CONTINUED 

have created that has made a home for crime.

IDLE HANDS There is a phrase which our parents use to say, to force us to spend our time productively: “The devil finds things for idle hands to do.”

The phrase is repeated in different ways. It comes from the Bible (The King James 1611 Version), referenced in Proverbs: (19:15) “Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.”

In newer versions of the Bible (if you read such things), the phrase is stated in this way: “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop”.

Let’s leave the devil out of it for the moment. When we read the word ‘idle,’ this does not mean ‘doing nothing,’ but rather that when the hands of the young lie still and without effort or productivity, their minds become a storm of exotic foolishness and soon the hand will produce the wickedness of the mind.

There should be no doubt, that when we see boys - in particular - sitting on the ‘blocks’ or ‘under the tree,’ they are not doing “nothing”.

They are learning something, as any guy knows. When you are a young boy, even before you understand it, you are looking for two things: a hero and status.

And boys will take as a hero whomever gives them a chance at a status that is respected by other boys, and necessarily by girls.

This means that the meaning and quality of this ‘status’ is the single most important goal for a society that hopes to maintain the imagination and productivity of its young people; to ensure that there are credible status options that can serve as goals for the young.

If as a society we fail to produce credible heroes (mentors and guides) and status at which our young people can aim, it will not mean that they will not have heroes or seek status.

They will seek these no matter what.

Every day…every minute of every day…as you pass them in the ‘safety’ of your car going about your life, what they are learning can put our country, our safety and your life under threat.

Our young people are coordinating the influences in their lives from which, they cultivate a personality and a set of goals.

We may not like either the personality or the goals, but whatever they are, if those goals are not positive or life-giving, or productive, it means the power of negative influences they embrace are greater than the ones we have provided for them.

There is no getting around that.

I will say something here which I think is the single most important point I will make in this commentary: When I was a boy between 10 and 17, I do not ever recall being alone for any significant length of time.

I was either with my parents, older cousins, (who had the power of punishment), at church, with neighbours, teachers or coaches.

I was never alone because my parents and our community believed that “foolishness enters the heart of a child,” the solution to which was constant, engagement, guidance and supervision.

When I look around our neighbourhoods, its boys...packs of roaming boys, idle and without the guidance that serves themselves or society, and today they are 16 and 17, but every day, they are becoming veterans of a violent, empty life - with a growing lust for greater violence - living with no eyes on them, without the status goals I mentioned before.

In our neighbourhood when I was growing up, if I walked left or right out of our yard, there were older people who had their eyes on me.

They could say: “Boy fix your clothes,” “Get home your mother is waiting for you”.

Today, parents think they can raise their children themselves.

However, this community that surrounded us taught us to behave and to have manners for people other than our parents. It reinforced what our parents taught us.

We all had the busy-body sister from the church who would come to the house with reports.

I would hear her telling my aunt: “Sister so and so, I need ta tell you bout dat good-fa-nuttin, no mannis boy,” as she spoke about one of my cousins.

We developed an instinct that we did not want to disappoint or be regarded as bad children by large numbers of persons in the community, beyond our immediate family.

This is achieved ONLY through community; through the guidance of upstanding community members towards goals that resulted in recognition from the entire community.

I am not speaking here of ‘events’ or ‘initiatives.’ I am speaking about A WAY OF LIFE that must become foundational to the way we exist, live and serve each other in our country; a way of life that creates a culture in which our young people can become their best possible selves.

COMMUNITIES Here is the second most important thing I will say in this article: I hear often, many people speaking of the “old days” and the organisation of our little neighbourhoods.

But, here is the thing, we ended

up in these communities, and they were lovely, but we never imagined them and designed them to sustain our values.

As the country advanced, the communities scattered and failed, and new people arrived to live amongst us.

But we never looked at what was central and valuable to those communities or determine what we wanted to keep for any new community we built.

Our new communities were designed and built by others and we did not - or did not know how to contribute what was central to our old communities to ensure we could live out our culture in the new ones.

All societies face these crossroads. The question is how will we respond?

We have to accept as JFK said, our social model creates the criminals who prey upon us.

We have not organised ourselves to prevent crime. Let’s be clear: No government policy and no police enforcement strategy is going to create a culture that limits the emergence of crime. Crime is a social problem.

It means that the very organisation of our society is the key to developing an anti-crime culture.

Some people will say there is crime everywhere. However, if you look at it Norway has about 100 murders a year with 5 million people.

The Bahamas has over 100 with 330,000. But every Norwegian is a millionaire, based on their share of their National Investment Trust.

That demonstrates a quality of life and shows the Bahamas has all the problems of 5 million people but none of the benefits of 330,000.

I am not saying that ‘we produce nothing but criminals’. The problem is we can produce 90 percent excellent young people, and 10 percent can destroy both our social comfort and our prosperity.

This means we must be absolutely and eternally vigilant in producing a liveable society.

With that, since we have focused on community and NOT WHAT WE MUST DO as a community but WHAT WE MUST BE FIRST, let’s end with a discussion on policy and policing.

As JFK said, communities get the law enforcement they “insist upon”.

In this case, we have not insisted on much.

In my view, we have to attack crime and create an anti-crime culture with such seriousness as if we are readying for war.

The structure of our policing suffers because it has no true connection to the society it serves.

And it does not matter if we have an intelligent, urbane and gracious governor, the structure itself cannot produce good policing or responsive policies that can cultivate an anticrime society.

We must insist upon a different structure of policing in this country.

The anti-crime culture and the idea of community described here must be reflected in the policing and the policies of law enforcement.

We must not only enact ‘community policing’ with police stations directly in our communities, but we have to use community intelligence to deter and prevent crimes to cultivate the anti-crime culture.

I make no statement about past or present Commissioners. However, the Commissioner of Police under the model we must insist upon as a community, for the safety and security of our lives, must be an active commissioner who runs the police from in the field, not behind a desk.

Our Commissioner has to initiate a new strategy that informs the community about the police establishment’s concept and theory of crime in Turks and Caicos; ensuring not only that officers are well-trained in the building of an anti-crime society, rather than merely solving crimes after they occur, but training them to serve and support the sustained community engagement I have called for previously in this article.

Other government agencies – education, social services, tourism - must all recognise the influence of crime on their capacity to serve our communities.

If the profile of criminals involves drinking and drugs, then that means eventually future health and social services costs.

If we are going to build an anticrime society then the tools educators employ to teach our children are the same tools that are necessary to educate society.

The nature and frequency of crimes impacts tourism and the main industry that generates our prosperity.

No part of our society can afford to ignore crime or fail to have within them, units that are set up to share information and intelligence with law enforcement with the objective to prevent crimes and cultivate the anti-crime society.

Therefore, our Commissioners as I said - MUST develop and have a theory of our crime problem; which must be as detailed as follows: What is the profile of the perpetrators?

Are they mostly boys?

What age?

Do they come from a location?

Who are their leaders?

What is their mode of operation?

What are the arrangements in the communities that gives assistance to crime?

Joblessness?

Idleness?

Immigration status?

Lack of police presence?

Parents protecting criminal

NEWS 25 children?

Boys who have dropped out of the social system?

Gang formations?

What are the structural issues?

Lack of clear policies?

Lack of review and accountability procedures?

Lack of police resources?

Lack of police understanding of the profile of the perpetrators?

Lack of prosecutorial efficiency?

ANTI-CRIME COMMUNITY I have mentioned the development of an ‘anti-crime community.’ This profile above must be what an anticrime community KNOWS AND COORDINATES its efforts around; not solving crime; not preventing crime alone, but creating an impulse, attitude and atmosphere in the community that crime will NOT be tolerated.

That is the basis of an anti-crime community.

There are additional social solutions which engage all our young people - especially boys - to ensure we have eyes on them between the ages of 10 to 18; which is itself a value that forms the foundation of an anti-crime community.

Some of these initiatives should involve all children mandatorily, because we have large numbers of non-Turks and Caicos Island children and mandatory programmes will mean every child learns the SAME principles of our community and the meaning of our culture, which gives unity to our social life.

As a community our charitable dollars and efforts must be concentrated on long-term objectives to achieve inter-generational transfer of our social values.

Such programmes must include, for example: Cadet corps – mandatory, with rewards.

Sports – rewards and recognition.

Skills development programmes – mandatory, with reward and recognition.

In this world so vexed with problems, conflicts and wars, there is one major economic opportunity left for our countries in the Caribbean and that is the 100 million retirees in the United States over the next 30 years.

Again, if we are going to take advantage of this, we have to develop a community we love and in which we are and feel safe, THEN we can invite wealthy retirees to live their last days in the community we have built; which, if we are diligent, would produce the largest economic expansion in our history; surpassing our incredible record from 2001 to 2008.

If we are able to do these things, stop the rotting away of our population of young boys, adopt an aggressive approach to our social values, not only will we have cultivated an anti-crime community in which our young people can develop their best selves, we would enjoy the fruits of a community and prosperity in and through which we can live our best lives.

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December 21 - January 8, 2016

Preliminary plan in place for bankrupt Bahamas resort, says China EXIM Bank AFTER months of silence, the Export-Import Bank of China (CEXIM) said on Thursday “there is a preliminary plan concerning the future arrangements” concerning the shuttered $3.5 billion Baha Mar project, which would be “launched as soon as practicable”. And, the Baha Mar Convention Center is intended to be used for an InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) event in April 2016.

Into the whirlwind of speculation surrounding the bankrupt resort development, CEXIM Bank’s statement has injected the first objective glimmer of hope that there may be an end to the troubles plaguing the project. In a statement issued on Thursday, the bank asserted that it has been in contact with “a number of potential investors and they have expressed initial interest in the project”.

Meanwhile, the bank has also complained of “people with ulterior motives” who have made “irresponsible remarks... which have affected the actions being properly taken by our bank and the receivers”.

The bank drew no specific references.

Meanwhile, BMD Holdings, the developer of the Baha Mar resort project, responded to the statement from CEXIM Bank.

“With respect to Baha Mar’s developer, nothing has changed.

The developer has made proposals to China EXIM Bank and the other parties, which would enable Baha Mar to be completed properly and opened successfully. We continue to be willing to work with all parties to achieve these goals as expeditiously as possible and look forward to hearing back from the bank.”

On October 30, 2015, CEXIM Bank put the project -- which had

The Bahamas won the award because of its idyllic setting and packages for couples.

CEXIM Bank’s statement has injected the first objective glimmer of hope that there may be an end to the troubles plaguing the project.

been in provisional liquidation since September 4 -- into receivership, with Raymond Winder, of Deloitte & Touche, Bahamas and Lai Kar Yan (Derek) and Darach Haughey of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Hong Kong, PRC, appointed as joint receivers and managers over all the assets, property and undertakings of Baha Mar. In a statement issued on Thursday, CEXIM asserted that, since taking over the project, the receivers have undertaken multiple measures to safeguard the Baha Mar project’s assets.

“We, China EXIM Bank, noted that some people with ulterior motives have made irresponsible remarks, which have affected the actions being properly taken by our bank and the receivers.

“We hereby solemnly state that China EXIM Bank has been actively working with relevant stakeholders to seek proper resolution of the issues that the project is facing, and has been maintaining close communication and contact with the government of The Bahamas.

Currently, there is a preliminary plan concerning the future arrangements and this will be launched as soon as practicable.

“The bank is working with the government to prepare for the convention centre to be used for the IDB event in early April 2016,” CEXIM Bank said.

In late March or early April of each year, the boards of governors of the IDB and the Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) hold their annual meeting in one of the bank’s member countries. This official gathering is a forum for discussion among the institution’s governors, most of whom are ministers of finance, presidents of central banks, or other high level authorities of the member countries. Representatives of multilateral financial institutions, development agencies, and private banks also attend.

In 2016, the annual meeting will take place in The Bahamas, from 7 to 10 April. A series of seminars on topics of interest to participants will be sponsored prior to the opening of the meeting.

US Senate stalls again on Bahamas ambassador FOURTEEN of President Barack Obama’s nominations for top foreign policy posts and ambassadorships - including one to the Bahamas - were further held up on Friday when the Senate failed to vote on them before closing its business for the year.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who is running for the Republican presidential nomination, has placed a blanket hold on all Obama political appointees to the State Department over what he called the “catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal”. And Democrat and Republican members have

placed various holds on specific nominations, including Obama’s pick of Roberta Jacobson for ambassador to Mexico.

Several top positions at the State Department and many ambassadorships, including that of Cassandra Butts to the Bahamas, Norway, Sweden, Luxembourg and Trinidad and Tobago, are awaiting votes.

The inaction angered Senator Ben Cardin, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, who took to the floor to criticise his fellow senators for holding up the votes for reasons

unrelated to the individuals’ qualifications for the jobs.

“We’ve got to get this done,” Sen Cardin said. “The reason we’re not voting has nothing to do with these individuals. Nothing.

Not one thing. These are qualified people. You’re not holding the Obama administration hostage, you’re holding America hostage.”

The Bahamas has not had a US ambassador since 2011. In February 2014, it was announced that Ms Butts, a former White House attorney, had been nominated for the position.

(Tribune)

Bahamas named ‘leading wedding destination’ THE Bahamas has been named the leading wedding destination at the 2015 World Travel Awards.

Recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which others aspire, the World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. The ceremony took place recently in Morocco.

“We in The Bahamas know our islands present an idyllic setting for destination weddings, so it is an honour to see such recognition from a prestigious organization like the World Travel Awards,” Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, Deputy Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, said. “Mother Nature has been very kind to us in providing a stunning natural backdrop for weddings here and the rest of the success is due

to the resorts, wedding planners, chefs and all those in the romance tourism sector who work diligently to provide a stellar product that keeps couples coming here to take their vows and then enjoy their honeymoons.”

The Bahamas has diverse offerings for weddings, the ministry said, pointing out couples can marry on one island and honeymoon on another, have a ceremony underwater or have dolphins in attendance.

“There are large resorts, private villas or small guest houses that offer as much excitement or as much seclusion as a couple could desire.

And the wealth of cuisine options is varied, fresh and delicious. With so many individual islands, each with its own characteristics, offerings and cultural elements, there is literally something to suit everyone and every budget,” a statement from the ministry said. (Tribune242)

Cayman Islands bank to pay $5 million in US tax evasion probe Cayman National Corporation (CNC) is expecting to part with some $5 million in fines to US authorities in relation to what the bank called “past wrongdoing” by two of its companies, Cayman National Securities and Cayman National Trust Company.

In a report on the bank’s website covering its fourth quarter report for 2015, CNC revealed that the companies have been under a criminal investigation by the United States Department of Justice for potential violations of US criminal law regarding tax evasion.

Despite turning a healthy profit, the board of directors decided “it would not be prudent” to offer a dividend to its shareholders in light of the expected fine settlement for their alleged role in facilitating tax dodging.

Although CNC has not revealed the details of the criminal activity, it said it had cooperated fully with the authorities as far as it was able within the laws of the Cayman Islands and it was continuing to negotiate with the US law enforcement authorities regarding the fine. The bank said although things were still not settled, it expected to accrue a $5 million “expense”, which was not accounted for in the unaudited financial report.

However, the firm stressed that no wrongdoing has been alleged in respect to CNB (Cayman National Bank Ltd) or the parent company, Cayman National Corporation Ltd. CNC also stated that, as a result of the investigation, it it was still in the process of taking the “necessary remedial action” to address the issues within the companies which have been the subject of the tax probe.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Cancer is not just ‘bad luck’ but down to environment, study suggests CANCER is overwhelmingly a result of environmental factors and not largely down to bad luck, a study suggests.

Earlier this year, researchers sparked a debate after suggesting two-thirds of cancer types were down to luck rather than factors such as smoking.

The new study, in the journal Nature, used four approaches to conclude 1030% of cancers were down to the way the body naturally functions or “luck”.

Experts said the analysis was “pretty convincing”.

Cancer is caused by one of the body’s own stem cells going rogue and dividing out of control.

That can be caused either by intrinsic factors that are part of the innate way the body operates, such as the mutations that occur every time a cell divides, or extrinsic factors such as smoking, UV radiation and many others that have not been identified.

The argument has been about the relative importance of intrinsic and extrinsic factors.

The team of doctors from the Stony Brook Cancer Centre in New York approached the problem from different angles, including computer

The new study, in the journal Nature, used four approaches to conclude 10-30% of cancers were down to the way the body naturally functions or “luck”.

modelling, population data and genetic approaches.

They said the results consistently suggested 7090% of the risk was due to extrinsic factors.

Image copyright Thinkstock Dr Yusuf Hannun, the director of Stony Brook, told the BBC News website: “External factors play a big role, and people cannot hide behind bad luck.

“They can’t smoke and say it’s bad luck if they have cancer.

“It is like a revolver, intrinsic risk is one bullet.

“And if playing Russian roulette, then maybe one in six will get cancer - that’s the intrinsic bad luck.

“Now, what a smoker

does is add two or three more bullets to that revolver. And now, they pull the trigger.

“There is still an element of luck as not every smoker gets cancer, but they have stacked the odds against them.

“From a public health point of view, we want to remove as many bullets as possible from the chamber.”

There is still an issue as not all of the extrinsic risk has been identified and not all of it may be avoidable.

Kevin McConway, a professor of applied statistics at the Open University, said: “They do provide pretty convincing evidence that external factors play a major role in many cancers, including some of the most common.

Study finds six things likely to increase risk of early death By now, we should all know the things we do that put our lives on the line: smoking, excessive drinking, and eating poorly.

A new Australian study has nevertheless revealed that there could well be hidden dangers lurking in our everyday behaviour that we don’t even think about, such as sitting and sleeping.

Remaining seated for more than seven hours daily, and sleeping for more than nine hours a night were found to be particularly damaging when combined with other risk factors, according to the new research.

The researchers have now called for those activities to be incorporated in a list of behaviours known to increase the risk of premature death.

The six deadly sins – literally – are: smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, inactivity, sedentary behaviour, and sleeping for more than nine hours or less

Sleeping too much can actually put your life at risk.

than six.

The authors wrote that “some risk behaviours tend to cluster, particularly in certain patterns, and that the joint risk could be much higher than the sum of the individual risks.”

According to the findings, which were published in the journal PLOS Medicine, smoking remains the most dangerous single risk factor on the list.

Heavy drinkers who said

they consumed more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week did not increase their chances of dying early, but those who combined heavy drinking with smoking nearly tripled their chances of premature death.

Compounding the risk, when the same subjects also reported getting either too much or too little sleep, the odds of an early death were nearly five times greater.

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Science & Technology

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Mexico to get world’s first dengue fever vaccine Mexico has approved the use of the world’s first vaccine against dengue fever, the

health ministry announced.

The deadliest form of the mosquito-borne disease

kills 22,000 people per year, according to the World Health Organisation.

French pharmaceutical company Sanofi said it developed the vaccine, Dengvaxia, over the

past 20 years.

Some 40,000 people will receive the treatment in Mexico in an initial phase.

“With this decision, Mexico moves ahead of all other countries, including France, to tackle the spread of this virus,” said the health ministry in a statement.

Dengue fever affects more than 400 million people a year across the world, mainly urban areas in tropical and subtropical climates.

It is a leading cause of hospital admissions in most Latin American and Asian countries, says the WHO. Most of the victims are children.

The vaccine will be available only to children over the age of nine, and adults under 49 who live in areas where the disease is endemic.

It is designed to prevent four types of dengue virus, said Sanofi.

“It’s a very important moment in the history of public health,” the head of Sanofi Vaccines Division, Olivier Charmeil, told the AFP new agency.

The company said it spent more than $1.6bn (£1bn) developing and creating the treatment.

The symptoms of dengue fever are similar to those of a severe flu.

It is transmitted from person to person by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also spreads chikungunya, zika fever and other diseases.

The first cases of dengue were registered in the 1950s in Thailand and the Philippines.

(BBC)

Eating red meat linked to higher risk of stroke, German scientists warn Red meat has received a lot of bad press recently – mostly for its perceived link to cancer.

But a new study suggests an increased stroke risk, with the odds going up the more meat people eat.

German researchers analysed data on about 11,000 middle-aged people who had no other risk factors for strokes such as heart disease or diabetes, and followed half of them for 23 years.

The participants who consumed the most red meat had a 47 percent higher risk of ischemic stroke – caused by blockages in blood vessels supplying the brain – than those who typically ate the smallest amount of red meat.

Protein from poultry, seafood or vegetable sources like nuts and legumes was not associated with any added risk.

While some previous research has linked highprotein diets to strokes, the results have been mixed and the current study helps solidify the evidence suggesting that red meat in particular may pose a danger, said lead study author Dr Bernhard Haring of the Comprehensive Heart Failure Centre at the University of Wurzburg.

To assess the link between protein consumption and stroke risk, Haring and colleagues reviewed data from diet questionnaires completed

by US residents aged 45 to 64

In the study, participants who consumed the most red meat had a 47 percent higher risk of ischemic stroke – caused by blockages in blood vessels supplying the brain – than those who typically ate the smallest amount of red meat.

starting in 1987.

The researchers followed their progress through 2011 to see how many people had suffered a stroke.

The participants were divided into five groups based on how much protein and what type they consumed.

The bottom-fifth, for instance, averaged about 49 grams of protein a day, representing less than 13 percent of total calories. The top-fifth averaged 93 grams of protein a day, representing 23 percent of total calories.

Participants who ate less protein on average at the start of the study were more likely to be black, smokers, and less likely to have regular exercise routines. The people who ate less protein were also less likely to be obese or take cholesterol-lowering medications.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

World News

‘Britain should stay in EU for national security’ – Cameron warns PRIME Minister David Cameron has cited national security as a key reason for Britain remaining in the EU following the Paris terror attacks.

The PM, who attended a meeting of EU leaders on Thursday evening, told journalists in Brussels on Friday he had made “good progress” on his four demands for change.

However Cameron admitted there is still “a lot of hard work to do” over his most controversial proposal to restrict EU migrants’ access to benefits.

In a strong suggestion that a referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU will be held next year, Cameron said 2016 will go down in history as the year Britain’s relationship with the EU “fundamentally” changed.

He said Britain’s membership of the EU is important for the UK’s economic and national security.

The PM said he aimed to finalise a deal with EU counterparts in February, when all 27 member states will meet to

David Cameron says he firmly believes that the best future for Britain is in a reformed European Union.

discuss Britain’s proposals.

If Cameron is successful in achieving concessions, a referendum could be held as early as June next year.

“We’ve made good progress; we are a step closer to agreement on the significant and far-reaching reforms I have proposed. It is going to be tough and there is a lot of hard work to do,” the PM said.

Officer Porter (right) is the first of six officers to stand trial over Freddie Gray’s death.

Baltimore judge declares mistrial in Freddie Gray case The judge in the case of a Baltimore police officer on trial over a death in custody has declared a mistrial after the jury was unable to reach a verdict.

Policeman William Porter is the first of six officers charged in the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray.

The jury deliberated for three days, but could not come to an agreement on all four charges.

Police have been positioned around the city to prevent riots like those that erupted following Gray’s death.

Judge Barry Williams said the jury - composed of seven black and five white people - had “clearly been diligent” in their deliberations.

The mistrial is a major setback for the prosecution, who may now have to build another case against

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the policeman. Prosecutors had also hoped to use Mr Porter as a witness in the trials against the other five officers, had he been found guilty.

Judge Williams has scheduled a hearing for Thursday to discuss a possible new trial.

Urging the public to remain calm, Gray’s family thanked the the jury for their service and pushed for the prosecutor to bring a new trial against Mr Porter.

After the announcement and into the evening, protesters marched through the streets and demonstrated in front of City Hall and other prominent buildings.

“Indict, convict, send those killer cops to jail,” some of the protesters chanted, during peaceful demonstrations.

China accuses US of B-52 ‘provocation’ over Spratly Islands CHINA has accused the US of “serious provocation” after it flew B-52 bombers near one of the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Chinese military personnel were put on “high alert” during the incident on 10 December, and issued warnings to leave.

The Pentagon said it was looking into the complaint.

China claims large swathes of the South China Sea but is in territorial dispute with a host of regional neighbours.

In October, China rebuked the US after a destroyer sailed close to a reef.

On Saturday, a statement from China’s defence ministry accused the US of deliberately raising tensions in the area with the B-52 over-flight of the disputed Spratly Islands, which it calls Nansha.

A report in the Wall St Journal said there were two B-52s on the mission and that one unintentionally flew within two nautical miles of Cuarteron Reef on the Spratly Islands, possibly due to bad weather.

China said the flights “constitute a serious military provocation and are rendering more complex and even militarising conditions in the South China Sea”.

It urged the US to take measures to prevent similar incidents.

China’s claim to the area has created a riff with some of its neighbours.

The US has not taken sides on sovereignty issues in the area but has a “freedom of navigation” policy asserting right of passage for its military.

However, Pentagon spokesman Cmdr Bill Urban said the B-52 overflight was not part of this policy, which analysts say might suggest a navigation error.

B-52s flew close to the Spratly

Islands in November. The US said this mission was “fully in accordance with international law”.

The South China Sea region continues to cause tension in USChina relations.

The US guided missile destroyer USS Lassen sailed within 12 nautical miles of Subi Reef in late October, which the Chinese branded “extremely irresponsible.”

Massive spending bill and tax plan passes US Congress US congressional leaders have passed a $1.1 trillion (£730 billion) spending bill, avoiding a government shutdown.

The massive bill includes both Republican-backed initiatives and Democratic priorities.

The spending bill, passed in combination with a tax plan, easily made it through the House and Senate.

President Barack Obama has promised to sign the legislation, which includes spending increases for the National Institutes of Health and the military.

Republicans scored victories in the bill, including ending a decadeslong ban on exporting US crude oil.

“The bipartisan compromise secures meaningful wins for Republicans and the American people,” said Speaker of the House Paul Ryan.

Over the past few years, the budget has become a place of bitter fighting between Democrats and Republicans, becoming a tool to threaten a government shutdown

President Obama has promised to sign the legislation.

if certain items are not included or excluded.

The government shut down for 16 days in 2013 when Congress could not agree on a budget. Passing a budget successfully marks an early victory for the newly elected House speaker.

Increased spending in the budget signals an end to Congressional belttightening. Members of Congress had said previously approved spending cuts were hurting the US

military.

Members of the so-called Freedom Caucus had said they would not support the bill because, among other things, it does not deny funding to family planning clinic Planned Parenthood or tighten US screening of Syrian refugees.

The spending bill does include changes to the “visa waiver” programme that allows for travel without a visa to the US for 38 countries.

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December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

Maintenance Manager

Duties and Responsibilities: • Establish goals, measurements and results for the department along with the General Manager.

• Involvement in the preparation of the Maintenance Operating and Capital budgets.

• General operational and preventative maintenance of systems including: Boilers and heating systems; make up air and HVAC systems; Pool facilities; and General plumbing issues.

• Maintain hotel guest rooms and public areas by performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs.

• Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

• Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on plumbing systems, electrical systems and appliances.

• Maintain the hot tub by ensuring a safe chemical balance through frequent testing.

• Organize, implement and track all maintenance projects for guestrooms and public areas.

• Monitor and revise as needed, departmental health & safety tools including training programs, policies and practices.

• Ensure a safe work environment is maintained at all times and that all colleagues are committed to working safely.

• Partner with Front Office Manager to ensure safe guest evacuation during emergencies (i.e. Fire Alarm).

• Motivate, train and lead maintenance personnel by personal example with a philosophy of work conduct, enthusiasm and personal development that leads to maximum performance and job satisfaction.

• Effective scheduling, vacation planning and department productivity to budget.

• Effective and timely interaction with all Hotel & Restaurant departments and positively impact guest experience by effectively and efficiently resolving maintenance concerns.

• Effective and timely interaction with HR regarding payroll (i.e. set up new hires, etc).

• Occasional maintenance to staff residence as required.

• A positive contributor to the leadership team of the hotel.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: · Prior Maintenance Management and/or supervisory experience within a operation equal in size and facilities. · Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Proven ability to motivate and lead employees in a busy, high quality environment. · Background in electrical and or plumbing are essential. · Good English communication skills (both written & oral). · Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic and changing environment. Ability to handle multiple requests in a fastpaced environment. · Good training, coaching and mentoring skills are essential. · Proven experience with budgets and payroll process is essential. · Completion of high school and technical training required. · Majority of work shift requires standing or walking 90% of the work day · Many tasks require sitting, bending, stooping, kneeling, and/or positioning to accomplish tasks · Able to lift and carry up to 50+ lbs. is common and up to 150 lbs with assistance · Reaching is required at all levels throughout the work period · Climbing of stairs is required and may require up to 50% of the time · Previous hotel maintenance experience preferred

· Able to work efficiently under time constraints · Able to work independently and with others Starting salary $45,000-$55,000 per annum not including service charge

Head Chef Requirements: • 3 to 5 years culinary experience in a full service, fine dining establishment as Head Chef • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have strong knowledge of kitchen inventory and ordering process, staffing, expediting and ability to supervise the staff and kitchen operations under the direction of the Executive Chef • Excellent culinary technique and ability to work the line during all meal periods • Exceptional customer service orientation, complying with company service culture Duties Include: • Recruit and select qualified candidates, provide training and communication performance expectations • Coordinate the inventory, purchasing and disbursement of all supplies with the purchasing manager • Inspect and ensures the proper set up and readiness of each item on menus • Supervise daily food preparation for assigned areas.

• Ensure that the level of quality, portion control, and plate presentation is adhered to consistently • Work closely with staff to exceed guest expectations • Maintain product consistency by conducting inspecting or seasonings, portion and appearance of food.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Butler

The butler will provide the highest of penthouse service to our guests. The Butler’s primary goal is to create an ambiance of superior luxury by anticipating each individual guest’s needs.. This is accomplished through moments of surprise and delight that our guest would never have experienced before. Also ensure guest familiarities to frequent guests visiting the hotel.

Requirements: • Minimum of 3 years experience in food and beverage fine dining as a personal Butler • Must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written • Strong knowledge of a variety of cuisines and wines/ beverages • Must possess local knowledge in order to respond to all inquiries from guest, such as restaurants information • Must possess basic computational ability • Must possess basic computer skills • Must be able to follow through all the guest requests and communicate them to the appropriate departments and management in an efficient manner • Must be have attention to details second to none ability, superior interpersonal skills and desire to provide exceptional service to our guest • Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours in length • Must be able to exert well-paced, ability to reach other departments and locations in a timely manner • 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 be able to bend and squat and lift up to 25 lbs • Must be able to push and pull equipment weighing up to 75 lbs • Requires grasping, writing, standing, sitting, walking, repetitive motions. Bending, climbing, listening and hearing ability and visual acuity.

• Requires manual dexterity to use and operate all necessary equipment • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting salary $6.25 per hour.

Cook Requirements: • Experience with, and comfortable preparing a variety of different cuisines in a fine dining environment • Understand the importance of consistency • Knowledge of food preparation techniques and health/ safety Duties Include: • Prepare all food items according to recipe cards and correct handling procedures.

• Maintain highest quality and appearance of all foods sent from kitchen and make sure plates are clean and appetizing.

• Maintain orderly and clean refrigerators and work areas.

• Rotate all foods and correctly fill out production charts.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting salary $6.25 per hour not including service charge.

Houseman Requirements: • Ability to work with heavy cleaning machinery.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties include: • Ensuring that standards of cleanliness and organization are met at all times in assigned areas.

• Responsibility for care and maintenance of all equipment and machinery • Restock linens and amenities on carts • Run needed items to guest floors • Assist housekeepers as required Starting salary $6.25 not including service charge.

Retail Manager Requirements: • Experience in retail management, purchasing, controlling, pricing, sales and marketing, and merchandising retail inventory.

Duties Include: • Oversee the day to day operations of the resort retail outlets with responsibility for profitability and emphasis on revenue generation and payroll efficiencies.

• Source products that match with guest needs and meet luxury standards.

• Prepare financial and other business reports as requested to include, but not limited to, annual budgets, daily sales reports, 90-day and annual reviews, monthly financial review, etc.

Salary/Wages Commensurate with Experience, Education and Training.

Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to kitchandra.penn@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, December 18th, 2015.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

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World News

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Putin chides Turkey, praises Trump and backs Russia’s economy A TYPICALLY confident and, at times, combative President Vladimir V. Putin declared on Thursday at his traditional year-end news conference that the Russian economy, battered by the slump in oil prices, had reached a floor and would rebound in 2016 and in subsequent years.

Mr. Putin praised the efforts of Secretary of State John Kerry to find a political solution to the war in Syria and admitted that there were Russian personnel in Ukraine but no regular soldiers. “We never said there were not people there who carried out certain tasks, including in the military sphere,” he said.

Mr. Putin drew applause from the crowd of journalists in lashing out at Turkey for having shot down a Russian bomber, calling it “the act of an enemy” and surmising that perhaps the Turks “wanted to lick the Americans in one place.”

In the wide-ranging, more than three-hour event, Mr. Putin even offered hints about his closely guarded family life, saying his two grown daughters were living in Russia and “taking the first steps of their careers.”

He also defended Sepp Blatter, the embattled

president of soccer’s world governing body, FIFA, who is under criminal investigation for corruption, saying he should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

The Russian leader even inserted himself into the Republican primary contest in the United States, offering a glowing assessment of Donald J. Trump and calling him the “absolute leader in the presidential race.” Speaking after the news conference, Mr. Putin added that Mr. Trump is “a very lively man, talented without doubt.”

But time and again, Mr. Putin returned to bread-andbutter matters of Russia’s slumping pensions and wages, an indication that Russia’s recessionary economy had his full attention.

Peppered with dozens of questions, Mr. Putin lingered on those that allowed him to reassure Russians that their living standards would improve.

He went out of his way, in several answers, to say that Russia’s economy had hit bottom this year, and that it was now bouncing back — though independent economists and even Russia’s central bank, in a report released this month, have contested that view.

The gross domestic

North Korea sentences Canadian pastor to life in prison NORTH Korea sentenced a Canadian pastor Wednesday to life in prison “for subversive plots and activities,” according to its state news agency.

The official news agency KCNA reported that the Rev. Hyeon Soo Lim “confessed to all heinous crimes he had committed.”

The report accused Lim of having “committed anti-DPRK religious activities, conducted false propaganda among overseas Koreans, and took active part in the operation of the U.S. and (a South Korean) conservative group to lure and abduct DPRK citizens ... in their programs for ‘aiding defectors from the north.’ “ North Korea already had detained him for 10 months.

Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs expressed dismay at what it called “the unduly harsh sentence given to Mr. Lim by a North Korean court, particularly given his age and fragile health.”

Lim’s trial was the first time Canadian officials had seen the 60-year-old since he was taken into custody in

February, the department said in a statement.

It said the North Korean government’s refusal to let Canadian representatives “verify his health and wellbeing” in person represents “a serious violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and the right of states to have consular access to their citizens.”

The Canadian government said it wants Lim’s rights to be respected and for him to return home.

It declined to offer any more information “in the interest of Mr. Lim’s case.”

Family spokeswoman Lisa Pak said the sentencing was “shocking and exhausting for the family,” and it asked North Korea to relent.

“We entreat the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to remember Reverend Lim’s heart for the people of the DPRK. The family and the church hope for a demonstration of mercy and compassion. Finally, we ask the global community for your continued support in prayers,” Pak said.

product, a broad measure of the economy’s health, is projected to fall 3.7 percent this year but will grow by 0.7 percent next year, Mr. Putin said. It would pick up more in following years, he added.

Real incomes, he conceded,

are falling, but other indications of social wellbeing such as the birthrate are up, he said.

Mr. Putin backpedaled on his prediction a year ago that Russia would pull out of its current slump within two

years, and blamed the tumble in oil prices. “Yes, after this fall in prices in energy resources, all the indicators slipped,” he said.

Mr. Putin’s popularity remains extraordinarily high, measured above 80

percent in some polls, despite the recession. While the economy is biting at home, even as Mr. Putin pursues a swaggering foreign policy, the hardship has not yet translated into widespread political discontent.

40

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

World News Cameron says Trump’s visit to UK would promote national unity THE frosty British reaction to Republican frontrunner Donald Trump continued Wednesday, with the UK’s Prime Minister branding Trump’s proposed Muslim travel ban “stupid,” and the former leader of Scotland labelling the mogul “three times a loser.”

Prime Minister David Cameron was responding to a question from an opposition lawmaker on whether he would use anti-extremism legislation to block Trump from visiting the UK, in line with growing calls to do so following Trump’s proposal to ban Muslims from entering the United States.

Cameron said Trump’s proposal was “divisive, stupid and wrong,” but that he did not support a British ban on the U.S. presidential hopeful entering the country.

“If he came to visit our country,

Donald Trump seems to be the most disliked man by the UK population; over half a million persons have already signed a petition to ban him from entering the UK.

I think he would unite us all against him,” he told British parliamentarians.

A British petition calling for the U.S. presidential hopeful to be

banned from entering the UK has attracted more than half a million signatures since it was launched last week -- more than five times the amount required for a committee to consider sending the motion for parliamentary debate.

Meanwhile, Trump became embroiled in a war of words Wednesday with Alex Salmond, a British lawmaker who was the previous First Minister of Scotland.

The spat flared after Britain’s Supreme Court unanimously knocked back Trump’s appeal against a wind farm being built overlooking one of his high-end golf courses in Scotland -- a case which pitted the businessmanturned-politician against the Scottish government, which had approved the development.

Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENTS IS LOOKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: A & M CLEANING SERVICES J.I.D. BARBER SHOP

• 2 Barbers • 1 Cosmetologist • 1 Nail Technician • 1 Salon Helper Salary $6.50 per hour

PENN CONSTRUCTION

• Carpenter

Salary $7.00 per hour MBA CONSTRUCTION

• Tile Layer

Salary $7.50 per hour PROFESSIONAL UPHOLSTERY

• Carpenter

Salary $7.00 per hour

CONTACT: CONTACT: 649-344-4540

THE US Federal Reserve has raised interest rates by 0.25 percentage points - its first increase since 2006.

The move takes the range of rates banks offer to lend to each other overnight - the Federal Funds rate to between 0.25% and 0.5%.

The move is likely to cause ripples around the world, and could increase pressure on the UK to raise rates.

It could also mean higher borrowing costs for developing economies, many of which are already seeing slow growth.

Rates in the US have been at nearzero since 2008.

There are concerns that a rise will compound that slowdown, as higher rates in the US could strengthen the dollar, the currency in which many countries and companies borrow.

It puts US policy at odds with that in Europe, where even easier borrowing terms are being

implemented.

The European Central Bank earlier this month cut overnight deposit rates from minus 0.2% to minus 0.3% and extended a €60bn stimulus programme.

The Bank of England this month voted to keep rates on hold at 0.5%, with its next move in interest rates not expected until late 2016.

The US rate rise vote was unanimous.

The US central bank also raised its projection for its economic growth next year slightly, from 2.3% to 2.4%.

That suggests the bank does not think the rate increase will damage growth. US share markets jumped in response.

The Dow Jones went from a 50-point rise to stand up 79 points, and later added to that to close up 224 points at 17,749 points, a 1.3% gain.

FOR SALE

2004 GMC YUKON, 114,000 MILES, SEATS: 7, GOOD CONDITION

HERZOG • Asphalt Plant Technician Salary $9.00 per hour 11742

Gardener - $6.50

US Fed raises interest rates by 0.25%

$14,500 O.B.O - CONTACT: 231-4479

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, PETER BECKINGHAM, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(6) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to NORDIA ALICIA KENNEDY by virtue of marriage to a Belonger.

Take Notice that I, PETER BECKINGHAM, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to LENS NOEL by virtue of marriage to a Belonger.

PETER BECKINGHAM

PETER BECKINGHAM

(Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Ordinance)

(Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

December 21 - January 8, 2016

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GOVERNMENT VACANCIES SCHOLARSHIP OFFICER

DEPARTMENT: Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports & Library Services LOCATION: Grand Turk Salary: Grade 6- $32,600.00 per annum.

JOB SUMMARY To provide administrative support and services to the Scholarship Secretariat/ Unit. To ensure that correspondence are acknowledged, responded and dispatched in a timely manner. To ensure that accurate and up-to-date information is available to policy and senior decision makers in a timely manner.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

DEPARTMENT: House of Assembly LOCATION: Grand Turk SALARY: Grade 5 - $26,000.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The incumbent in this post will be responsible for preparing appropriate documentation for approval, ensures all transactions are properly recorded. The incumbent will also manage databases, systems for filing and secure all documents.

CLERICAL ASSISTANT

DEPARTMENT: Human Resource Management Directorate LOCATION: Grand Turk SALARY: Grade 3 - $16,300.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The incumbent in this position will be responsible for clerical and administrative tasks to support the daily functions of the Office.

GRADUATE/SECONDARY TEACHER

LOCATION: Providenciales and South Caicos SALARY: Grade 2 - $35,050.00 per annum plus allowances FIELD OF STUDY: Special Education Teacher JOB SUMMARY This is a specialist position which has unit level responsibility for the teaching of one or more of the school’s curriculum subjects to students.

STREET CLEANER

DEPARTMENT: Public Works Department LOCATION: South Caicos SALARY: $6.25 per hour JOB SUMMARY: The post holder is responsible for the cleaning of the streets, as assigned, of debris and any other waste and dispose of debris properly or as instructed. The incumbent in this position will be assigned to a particular area or street that he / she may be responsible for solely or as part of a small team and will be required to change areas or help with cleaning of additional areas as requested by the superior officers.

TANK ATTENDANT

DEPARTMENT: Water Undertaking LOCATION: Grand Turk SALARY: Grade 2 $14,300.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The successful candidate will be

responsible to manage and operate the water issue points assigned to, by issuing water and collecting associated fees.

AIR CONDITIONING SUPERVISOR

MINISTRY: Infrastructure, Housing and Planning DEPARTMENT: Public Works Department/ Project Management Division SALARY: Grade 5 $26,000.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The post holder responsibilities include the installation, maintenance and repairs to all air conditioning and refrigeration units in government buildings. Working along with the electrical supervisors, The A/C supervisor will assist in determining work programmes, job costing and in carrying out joint inspections with user departments prior to undertaking work.

COMMERCIAL LEGAL COUNSEL – TCIG REPRESENTATIVE

DEPARTMENT: Contract Management Unit LOCATION: Providenciales SALARY: Grade 9.4 - $65,350.00 plus allowances JOB SUMMARY: This professional position has responsibility for providing accurate and timely legal advice to the Contract Performance Management Unit. The Commercial Legal Counsel/TCIG Representative is expected to generate satisfactory results when the legal advice provided is credible and rarely results in litigation against the government.

For more details regarding this position, kindly refer to the attached documents or visit www.gov.tc.

Please ensure that all applications submitted by email clearly states the Job Title in the subject line of the email and all applications received via hard copy is clearly marked with the Job Title.

42

JOB LISTINGS SERVICES AUTO SALES REAL ESTATE

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FLOWER GIRL

WANTED URGENTLY

FLORAL DESIGNER

Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.

Call: 231-3788

FOR SALE

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

Is looking for a

B & B SERVICES Is looking to fill the following positions:

CONTACT: 649-341-1683

CONTACT: 245-6962

A & J WALK IN VARIETY STORE

GOLD JEWELRY PAWN SHOP

11700

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

11419

E & V EQUIPMENT LIMITED

DICE DEALER

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Is looking for a

Is looking for the following positions:

2 LABOURERS 1 MAINTENANCE PERSON 1 DOMESTIC WORKER 1 BEAUTICIAN 1 BARTENDER 1 KITCHEN HELPER

LABOURER

CASABLANCA CASINO

Is looking for a professional

Salary $12.00 per hour WAITRESS Salary $11.00 per hour

AND A

LABOURER/ KITCHEN HELPER

Salary $8.00 per hour All candidates should have at least 3-5 years experience in the same field. Must be willing to work on weekends, night shifts and holidays.

STORE CLERK to work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

11716

CONTACT: 341-2357

JEWELLERY REPAIRMAN To work 6 days per week salary according with the experience.

FAX RESUME: 649-941-3338

11692

LABOURER WANTED Treasures S & S Gift Shop is looking for a Labourer to assist with lifting boxes and stocking shelves. 2 days per week. Salary: $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT 231-1162 1745

GRAN SLAM Is looking for a

BOAT CAPTAIN Must have at least 5 years experience must be willing to work 6 days per week including weekends and holidays salary negotiable.

11743

CONTACT: 231-4420

(Dozer/ Excavator Operator)

Please drop off CV’s at the Casablanca Casino, addressed to Human Resources

CONTACT: 649-941-8494 OR FAX: 649-941-8495

FR CONSTRUCTION

ERB CONTRACTOR

11705

GOD’S INSTRUMENT MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL BAPTIST CHURCH

Is looking for the following

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

DIESEL MECHANIC

11702

ALBERT HIGGS

CLASSIFIEDS 43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

2 CARPENTERS – $8.00 per hour

TEACHER

To work 6 days per week salary commensurate with experience send resumes to: alcesdor@ yahoo.com 11703

TILEMAN – $8.00 per hour

Is looking for a

LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CARPENTER HELPER – $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 649-242-2548

CONTACT: 331-1067

11708

MOBILE SHOP SALES ASSOCIATE NEEDED • 3 Years minimum experience in Mobile Sales • Extensive knowledge of Cell phone Parts & Components • Exceptional Customer Service Skills • Speak Spanish (non-exceptional) • High School diploma or equivalent

EMAIL APPLICATIONS TO JAFOOE@GMAIL.COM 11745

CELLPHONE REPAIR TECHNICAIN NEEDED • 5 years Cell phone and Electronics repair experience • 5 Years Soldering Experience • Advance Levels 1, 2, 3 Repair capabilities • Speak Spanish (non-exceptional) • Exceptional Customer Service Skills EMAIL APPLICATIONS TO JAFOOE@GMAIL.COM

11746

PORTS OF CALL RESORTS

BCS/GRACE BAY CAR RENTALS- FNM-CS/TSI MANAGEMENT

Job Vacancy:

Is looking to fill the following positions:

HOUSEMAIDS HOUSEMAN PART-TIME BEACH ATTENDANTS PART-TIME KITCHEN STAFF FRONT OFFICE CLERK Person must be able to work holidays and weekends and be willing to work as a part of a team.

RESUME CAN BE EMAIL TO INFO@ PORTSOFCALLRESORT.COM

PROPERTY MANAGER

11704

December 21 - January 8, 2015

• Picking up trash, sweeping curb and dumpster areas and maintaining landscaping beds and other ground areas • Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs • Must have the ability to maintain irrigation systems and provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, fountains, and other grounds features Salary commensurate with experience

Rental Agents Salary $6.50 per hour Must have a valid drivers license

Labourer

Must have a clean and valid TCI Drivers License Salary $6.50 per hour

Mechanic

Salary commensurate with qualification and experience

EMAIL: BRANDITZ@YAHOO.COM 11747

44 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Executive Assistant Manager

Job Summary: Functions as the Strategic Business Leader of the resorts’ Front Office, Spa, Youth Program and Retail operations and serves as General Manager as needed. Position oversees the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives throughout the operation. The position operation meet the brand’s target customer needs, ensures employee satisfaction, focuses on growing revenues and maximizes the financial performance of each department.

REQUIREMENTS: • 8-10 years of management experience in internationally branded luxury hotels/resort including at least 2 years at Executive Committee Level • In depth knowledge of front office, spa, youth program, and retail • Knowledge of all hotel operations to act as leader of any department when necessary • Knowledge of governmental regulations and safety standards (OSHA, EPA, ADA, CFC, NFPA) • Strong organization skills • Ability to effectively manage labor productivity • Financial management skills e.g., ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning • Ability to use standard software applications and hotel systems – Opera (Fidelio), Micros.

• Strategic planning skills • Ability to evaluate business trends, determine applicability to customer profile and modify business strategies accordingly • Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others • Ability to network and build relationships to grow the business • Strong problem-solving skills; encourages new innovative solutions when appropriate • Strong communication skills (verbal, listening, writing) • Must be willing and available to work all shifts and days Salary $60,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience

Spa Manager REQUIREMENTS: • Minimum of 5 years experience as spa manager at luxury spa of similar size and status • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Strong written and verbal skills with documented responsibility for promotions sales and marketing.

• Merchandising/visual skills; experience with retail products and apparel goods.

• Knowledge of current trends In luxury spa facilities and services • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts DUTIES INCLUDE: • Manage the day to day operations of the Fitness Center and Spa Facilities

• Maximize profitability by increasing sales of products and services and by managing effectively • Ensure high quality of facility and services to meet international luxury and brand standards and earn global recognition and awards • Experience developing and implementing effective preventative maintenance programs • Demonstrated experience in development budgets and cost saving measures • Develop annual operating and Capex budgets, monitoring and adjusting as needed Starting salary $50,000 per annum not including service charge.

Front Office Manager REQUIREMENTS: • Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience with at least 3 year at a management level.

• Must have a Degree from School for Tourism & Hotel Management or other professional qualification.

• Manage and supervise all tasks of front office personnel to ensure guests receive prompt, cordial attention and personal recognition.

• Supervise the Front Office team to ensure optimum occupancy and average room rate for the purpose of maximizing revenue.

• Monitor Front Office, and particularly Guest Relations personnel, to ensure priority guests, repeat guests and other VIPs receive special attention and recognition.

• Promote Inter-Hotel sales and in-house facilities and monitors Front Office Marketing techniques in line with FIT marketing program.

• Assume overall responsibility for maintaining standards to ensure furnishings facilities and equipment are clean, in good repair and well maintained.

• Interpret computer reports and compile relevant statistics for front office.

• Conduct comprehensive monthly departmental meetings to include a review of procedures and events which warrants special handling and detailed information.

• Communicate to Hotel Manager all pertinent information such as the expected arrival and departure of VIPs. • Prepare efficient work and vacation schedule for Front Office Staff, taking into consideration project occupancy and forecasts and any large group movements.

• Work with the Human Resource Manager to ensure the departmental performance of staff is productive.

DUTIES INCLUDE: • Plan for future staffing needs and recruit in line with company guidelines.

• Prepare detailed induction programs for new staff.

• Analyze training needs of Front Office staff and develop training programs.

• Conduct probation and formal performance appraisals.

• Coach, counsel, discipline staff and provide constructive feedback to staff.

• Work with the Finance and Business Manager in the preparation and management of the department’s budget.

• Adhere to OH&S policies and procedures and ensure all direct reports do the same.

Starting salary $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 per annum commensurate with qualification and experience.

Pool and Beach Manager REQUIREMENTS: • Prior experience in a similar role at a property of similar size and quality • Excellent swimmer with rescue capability and first aid training • Able to operate and teach others to operate catamarans, kayaks other watercrafts • Calm under pressure and possess the ability to instill in all pool and beach staff that they are there to serve the guest quickly and courteously DUTIES INCLUDE: • Manage the pool and beach staff and providing training • Assist with preparation of budgets, complete monthly reports and inventories • Schedule staff, monitor and evaluate work performance, and disciplinary procedures as necessary Salary $37,000.00 – Commensurate with Experience, Education & Training

Food and Beverage Manager REQUIREMENTS: • 10 years experience in Food & Beverage Management in luxury hospitality with at least 2-3 years experience as F & B Manager.

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience.

• Strong track record of maintaining consistent standards, continually training outlet staffs and promoting an atmosphere of teamwork.

• Strong financial skills.

• Track record of building/increasing outlet revenue and average cheques.

• Experience implementing new F&B concepts.

• Exceptional knowledge of different types of cuisine and wine including how menus are developed, pricing guidelines and how to improve results.

• Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays to reflect the business needs of the hotel.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

DUTIES INCLUDE: • Plan and manage the Restaurants, Room Service and Banquets, as appropriate, in order to achieve guest satisfaction, quality service, and compliance with corporate/brand policies and procedures while meeting/exceeding financial goals • Develop and implement special promotions and employee incentives.

• Create department budget and financial reports, and monitor status to adjust as appropriate.

Starting salary $40,000-$60,000 per annum not including service charge.

Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to kitchandra.penn@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, January 8th, 2016.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

45

46

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

47

48

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

December 21 - January 8, 2015

ELEGANT BEAUTY BRAIDING SALON

CLASSIFIEDS 49

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LOTIE HARVEY

PROVO STORAGE

NURSERY COORDINATOR

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

REQUIREMENTS:

HAIRDRESSER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

11665

CONTACT: 241-4404

LABOURER To work 5 days

per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-9730

is looking for a

SEAFOOD PROCESSOR To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 344-0689

11706

Email resume to: ewatkin19@gmail.com or Contact Us: 649.946.5414. Apply before: 24th April 2015 11695

CONTACT: 231-1612

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

CBMS

MARIE DELCAME JOSEPH FORBES

TCI CONCIERGE SERVICE

LABOURER

GARDENER/ PROPERTY CARETAKER

Is looking for the following:

HAIRDRESSER

NEEDED To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour send resume to: Misick & Stanbrook Leeward Highway Providenciales Tel: 946-4732.

Fax 946-4734 Email info@ misickstanbrook.tc

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 2417902 OR 347-7259

11709

CONTACT: 649-442-1349 11699

EXECUTIVE PASTRY CHEF At The Meridian Club on Pine Cay

Caribbean Building Materials & Services Ltd. 131 South Dock Road, PO Box 611 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Phone 649-941-3400 Fax 649-941-3401

SALARY:

$10-12/hr or more depending upon training, experience, work record and capability.

DUTIES:

Heavy Duty Mechanic w / Hydraulic Specialization

must be able to create a large variety of tasty desserts, breads and pastries from scratch (4-5 different dessert offerings must be available each day for lunch and dinner and pastries for breakfast). Must be able to do other food preparations and assist in meal preparation. Must assist Executive Chef in overseeing and training kitchen staff, as needed.

Applicant should have specialization of all aspects of equipment hydraulic systems, able to read schematics & trouble shoot hydraulics on all types of heavy equipment. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience in diesel Trucks, bulldozers, excavators etc.

Ability to weld & fabricate, possess own tools & transportation, and be able to work without supervision. Applicant must be prepared to work late days, evenings, and weekends as the job dictates.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

- - - - -

Must have degree in culinary arts from an accredited college or university Minimum of 3 years experience as Pastry Chef in 5 star restaurant. (or equivalent) Must be skilled in handling all duties specified.

Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay, a small private island on a full time basis.

Must furnish health certificate or be willing to undergo medical examination to ensure freedom from communicable disease.

- Must be willing to work weekends, nights and holidays

Equipment Operators

Applicant must have substantial experience in all aspects of earth moving equipment operations. Seven years minimum experience required. A mechanical aptitude would be beneficial. Applicant must be prepared to work weekends and evening as required.

Starting Date: Dec. 1, 2015

Labourers

CONTACT PERSON AND CONTACT INFORMATION:

Debbie Keller, Resort Manager. Fax to 649-941-7010 or email to manager@ meridianclub.com a copy of resume with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) Resume must include min. of 3 references with contact information and how you know these people. Also include copy of passport, police report. All qualified applicants will be interviewed within 2 weeks. Please submit applications no later than Dec. 23, 2015

Applicant must be prepared for heavy work, breaking cement bags, loading trucks and stevedoring of cement and gravel. Applicant will also be required to assist mechanics as needed. Applicant must prepare to work long hours.

Evenings and weekends as required.

Please apply with references, clean police and driving record to CBMS Ltd. Or call 941-3400

11701

Is looking for a

Seeks to Employ:

Position is to be based on site managing the process of Internal Finishing as well as being able to carry out works at times where necessary Have the ability to order materials, price and deal with variations, deal with necessary paperwork and liaise with the Client / Main Contractor with regard to change orders and Ability to use Microsoft and Outlook would be advantageous.

Must have 5 plus years onsite experience. Be fluent in both English and Spanish Work six days a week; including holidays and weekends.

Clean Police Record and Driving License.

To work 6 days per week salary $12.00 per hour.

11707

SNAPPER ON THE BEACH

INTERIOR FINISHING SUPERVISOR

STEEL BUILDING FABRICATOR

Please bring all applications to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at W102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email to: admin@environmentalarts.tc Successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview Please provide relevant references from previous employer

11698

Is looking for a

• Minimum 4 years experience in operations/ coordination role • Excellent English verbal and written skills • Comprehensive experience using QuickBooks for financial accounting, reports and analysis • Willing to work outdoors and irregular hours including weekends and holidays if needed • Preferable to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Law • Relevant qualification in Environmental studies or protection • Understanding of plants in indigenous environmental application • Starting salary $2,400 per month

11713

11697

50 CLASSIFIEDS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EAGLE REFERENCE CAR WASH SEEKS

DOMESTIC WORKER

Main duties will be domestic duties. Must be able to speak English, Salary starts at $6.50 per hour Will have to work 6 days a week.

Deadline for applications is December 18, 2015.

Interested persons should send applications via fax at (649) 941-8472 Only applicants selected will be contacted.

ETS LTD.

KITEBOARDING INSTRUCTOR REQUIRED The successful candidate must be IKO certified at least at Level One and must have a minimum of three years teaching experience in this area, as this individual will be actively involved in training and providing lessons in Kiteboarding to adults and children. Must also possess the ability to speak either French or Spanish, hold a valid driver’s license and be in good health. Will be required to assist with assembling and lifting Kiteboarding equipment to and from the beach everyday for lessons. Must be personable, able to work unsupervised and trustworthy. Assistance will be required in website maintenance and social media administration. Salary will commensurate with experience. We will accept emails only of resumes with proof of certification. Please submit on or before December 25, 2015.

Serious inquiries may also send a copy of their application to the Labour Department. Email: info@karammissick.com.

11735

Wishes to recruit a

Technical Coordinator Duties include coordinating the technical operations of a multifaceted, three-pronged consultancy firm, developing operational procedures and logistics, drafting contracts, managing the operation of activities in line with established procedures and budgets, preparation and review of project implementation and reports, and liaise with clients both locally and internationally etc.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Business Management or related field, minimum 10 years experience in technical operations & business management, accounting management experience, must be computer literate, punctual, responsible and have the ability to work on your own initiative, valid TCI driver’s license, own transportation, willing to work weekends and holidays, & clean police record. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please forward resume to the Manager, ETS Ltd., Long Bay, Providenciales or email them to consult@ets.tc.

VACANCY

UNDERWRITING ASSISTANT Heritage Insurance Co (Caribbean) Ltd is seeking to fill the post of Underwriting Assistant. The successful candidate should: - Have insurance knowledge and experience - Have excellent organizational and communication skills (verbal & written) - Be responsible, dependable, have a great attitude and be a team player - Must be computer literate.

Submit cover letter and resume to: Carla Blake, Heritage Ins. Co (Caribbean) Ltd, via email at cblake@hiccl.com. Deadline for applications is December 30, 2015.

11737

11730

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

BIG BLUE UNLIMITED: PARROT CAY WATERSPORT ACTIVITIES

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Parrot Cay/Big Blue Unlimited Sales and Reservations Agent or Manager Full time – At Parrot Cay from 7:30 am to 5.30 pm Monday through Sunday or as required Base salary Sales commission

BANKING HOURS DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY The Bankers Association wishes to advise that All Banks will be observing the following business hours during the Christmas period.

Thursday, December 24 Friday, December 25 Monday, December 28 Tuesday, December 29 Wednesday, December 30 Thursday, December 31 Friday, January 1 Monday, January 4

9:00 am - 1:00 pm Closed Closed 9:00 am - 3:00 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Closed Resume normal hours

A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy and Prosperous New Years to All!

11738

GENERAL

• Have a thorough knowledge of all tours, staff and resources available for guests including Parrot Cay exclusive.

• Good knowledge of Turks and Caicos culture/history, attractions and tourism industry • Must have excellent written and verbal communication, be highly organized and have attention to detail • Be available via phone from 7am to 8pm + • Be able to keep detailed records of tours and enter all sales, service charges and tax amounts • Have an outgoing, dynamic personality with strengths in building relationships with guests, co-workers, and hotel staff to maximize customer service and sales.

• Understanding the importance and ensuring phone and email inquiries are answered and any follow up is done in a timely manner.

• Need to be flexible, think on your feet and outside the box and above all reliable • Pay will commensurate with experience, Belongers highly preferred.

Please forward resume to Big Blue Unlimited in person or by email at info@bigblueunlimited.com

11712

December 21 - January 8, 2015

SANCHEZ & WILLIAMS CAFÉ

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SUNSET PHARMACY

SKY PILOT

is looking for a

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

BARMAID

SALES CLERK To work 5 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

DOMESTIC WORKER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 941-3751

JSMS/ PRICE CLUB

L.P.S. / YVON PETIT

THE MISSION CHURCH OF GOD

Is looking for a

11726

CONTACT: 347-6113

11720

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 231-2397 Is looking for a

Is looking for a

LABOURER BAKER MISSIONARY To work 6 days To work 6 days Salary $6.50 11723

CONTACT: 332-5029

per week salary $6.50 per hour CONTACT: 649-342-2548

11725

per hour.

CONTACT: 341-1268

11727

per week salary $6.25 per hour

CLASSIFIEDS 51

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

InterHealth Canada are currently recruiting for Key Senior positions within their facilities department. Successful candidates will be offered excellent packages, development and training opportunities within the organisation.

1. Facilities Manager - Soft and Professional Services 40 hours per week, based in Grand Turk - Candidate must be qualified to Bachelors Degree or equivalent, and be able to work and travel to both Grand Turk & Providenciales Hospital facilities.

Responsible for a team of 75 employees and managing Human Resources, Training, Quality reporting, Finance & Budgeting Function, Administration, Retail and Patient Catering, Housekeeping, Portering and Laundry Departments. Additional responsibilities include Health & Safety co-ordination and training, Fire Marshall Responsibilities, and active involvement in Disaster co-ordination and management.

Candidates must have previous experience within this field, preferably within a healthcare environment, and have operational experience of at least two soft service streams and a strong business management background.

2. Facilities Manager - Engineering, Grounds, Security and Sub Contract Management - Grand Turk & Providenciales 40 hours per week, based in Providenciales - Candidate must be qualified to Bachelors Degree or equivalent, hold qualifications in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and be able to work and Travel to both Grand Turk & Providenciales Hospital facilities.

Responsible for a team of 20 and managing mechanical and electrical engineering team, and also grounds management team. Responsible for planned preventative maintenance, reactive maintenance and be experienced in project management.

Fully responsible for budgetary compliance and staff welfare, all due diligence, documentation, legislative compliance and working to HTMs. Additional responsibilities are the management of Sub contractors, Security services and contracted services, including SLA’s, KPI, and tender process. Out of hours ‘on-call duties’, H&S and Fire Management & Disaster Management responsibilities are also included within post.

3. Catering Manager - Retail & Patient Catering 40 hours per week, based in Providenciales - Candidate must be qualified to Associate Degree or equivalent, and be able to work and travel to both Grand Turk and Providenciales Hospital Facilities.

Responsible for a team of 20 and managing catering facilities at both GT & PLS sites.

Duties include budgetary compliance, staff management, marketing of services, menu production and costing, stock control and management, financial reporting and gross profit management, nutritional analysis of food, special dietary needs, HACCP, due diligence and service delivery.

Candidates must have previous experience of departmental management within a commercial environment.

4. Chef Refresh – Providenciales 40 hours per week. Required for Cheshire Hall Medical Centre only. Working with team of experienced Chef’s to produce high standards of food quality and customer service. Candidate must have at least 3 years previous experience, have good literacy, numeracy and IT skills and have experience within a good standard production kitchen, over a range of departments i.e. soup, pastry, entree sections.

Candidate will be required to carry out paperwork and inventory duties within remit, and able to work 5 days over 7 on a shift system.

SPA THERAPIST

• Deliver spa treatments and techniques • Massage Therapy, Body Therapy, Aesthetician, Nail Technician, Body Wraps and Therapeutic Baths • Promote a sense of well being and other therapeutic benefits for clients • Create a relaxing atmosphere for clients • Must be the consummate professional at all timesv • Immaculate appearance • Excellent customer service • Have patience • Be sincere about caring for people • Be confidential • Must be certified and have on the job exposure to all area of a spa

Qualified Belongers will be given first consideration.

Salary: Negotiable, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Apply in writing together with an up to date curriculum vitae to: dpinnock@interhealthcanada.tc 11734

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

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

INTERESTED PERSONS CAN CONTACT OUR HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT NO LATER THAN JANUARY 2, 2016 @ (649) 946-8550 11722

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

LAS BRISAS RESTAURANT

SAMUEL HARVEY Seeks to Employ:

Is looking for a

LABOURER

To work 5 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-4049

CONTACT: 946-5306

WILFREY AND TONY BARBER SHOP

11744

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, assumes the most senior responsibility for all aspects of the business. This individual will be recruiting staff, performing office and administrative functions, promoting the business activities, customer interaction, vendor relationships. Must have a vehicle, valid drivers’ license and be willing to work holidays and weekends. 4 year college degree with a related field, 5+ years’ experience in a business of this nature or similar to. Safety & occupational health certificate is required. Strong computer/POS, organizational and analytical skills. Detail oriented, excellent communication skills, cooperative attitude, hands on work ethic. Salary: $30,000 + per annum, depending on experience.

Email resume to: mph@tciway.tc or Contact Us: 649.946.5414 Apply before: 16th December 2015 111696

THE HELP DESK ACTING ON BEHALF OF ITS CLIENTS:

SUPERIOR LAUNDROMAT

Is looking for a

BARBER To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour

LAUNDRY REPAIRMAN TECNHICIAN $8.00 per hour

QUINTIN SELVER

DOMESTIC WORKER

11753

– $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-7734 11748

LUPO RESTAURANT Is currently seeking a

KITCHEN HELPER Work hours are from Mon to Fri: 5pm to 10pm. Some holidays and weekends included.

Hourly rate is $6.25.

PLEASE CONTACT THIS NUMBER FOR AN INTERVIEW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED - 431-3232

CARIBBEAN MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED

PAPS AIR CONDITIONING REFRIGERATION & APPLIANCE

Caribbean Management Services Limited is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Corporate Administrator.

Key responsibilities include: Liaising with clients Incorporation of corporate entities Post-incorporation activities Implementing KYC requirements Effectively communicating with the Financial Services Commission

The successful candidate will have at a minimum a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a business-related field and have at least five years corporate management experience with a corporate management firm. An additional professional qualification (such as STEP) would be an asset. The candidate must be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and QuickBooks accounting software and have strong analytical and organizational skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills. Salary will be dependent upon skills and experience.

Applicants should send their details and résumés to the Managing Director at INFO@CMSTCI.COM OR BY FAX TO 941-8362.

CLOSING DATE: 23RD DECEMBER 2015

LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 231-0098

• Yoga Teacher Instructor • Personal Assistant Salary negotiable

CONTACT: 231-4101

ELITE GAMING

ROUTE TECHNICIAN

• Minimum 5 years experience in slot machine operations • Must be able to repair and maintain all types of slot machines • 6 days a week/ shiftwork • Days/ nights, weekends and holidays • Salary $10 per hour

CONTACT: ELITETCI@GMAIL. COM OR 649-331-6076 11708

¿TIENES PROBLEMAS

CORPORATE ADMINISTRATOR

BRAHMA KUMARIS WSO RAJA YOGA CENTER MEDITATION MUSEUM Is looking for the following:

11704

SALES CLERK

• • • • •

Is looking for a

OFFICE MANAGER

Is looking for a

CONTACT: 231-0882

December 21 - January 8, 2016

11718

URIAL MUSGROVE

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CON LA BEBIDA?

BRAHMA KUMARIS WSO RAJA YOGA CENTER MEDITATION MUSEUM Is looking for the following:

HAY ESPERANZA Vacancy for

AIR CONDITION & APPLIANCE TECHNICIAN Salary $400 Weekly.

Please contact us at Tel#: 649-2444332

REUNIONES DE ALCOHÓLICOS ANÓNIMOS MIÉRCOLES 8:00PM & DOMINGO 10AM TOMAS 247-8628 POR DETALLES

• Yoga Teacher Instructor • Personal Assistant Salary negotiable

CONTACT: 231-4101

11718

52 CLASSIFIEDS

Paralegal Required A local law firm requires the assistance of a paralegal who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law with experience working in a law firm for a minimum of three years. Experience working in a courthouse or legal aid will be a plus. The successful candidate must possess strong knowledge in judicial clerkship, various divorce matters, breach of contract, division of property, employment contracts and disputes and wills and affidavits. Duties will include but not be limited to drafting of pleadings, powers of attorney and agreements for sale, filing of various court documents, preparation and filing of various applications including bail, custody and legal guardianship of children and assisting to draft legal opinions and judgements for civil and criminal matters. Only Belongers Need Apply.

Resumes must be sent by email with copies of credentials and TCI status to info@ karammissick.com no later than December 18, 2015. Unscheduled visits and calls are not welcomed. Please submit copies of your resume to the Labour Department.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Merry Christmas From our entire team

With appreciation for your business and with warmest wishes for a happy Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year

Connolly Kia Ltd. Tropical Plaza, Grace Bay Road. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.

Tel: (649) 941-7264, (649) 946-5300. Fax: (649) 941-7265, (649) 946-5456.

Email: tropical@tciway.tc

With Appreciation at the Holidays With best wishes from our family to yours for a most memorable, magical holiday season.

Thanks for giving us so much to celebrate this year!

CHRIST

MAS

SALE

25% OFF Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Telephone: 946-4894

U N T IL DECEMB E R 24

December 21 - January 8, 2016

WILSON GIBSON

55

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BEAUFORT HOLDINGS LTD. Is looking for a

LABOURER/ CARPENTER MAINTENANCE PERSON 4 HELPERS Is looking for the following

CONTACT: 342-6010

CONTACT: 332-5029

AGNES SWANN

HENRY O’NIEL WILSON

Is looking for a

11724

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

11736

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

Is looking for a

LABOURER LABOURER To work 6 days To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 332-7196

PREMIUM CUTS BARBER SHOP

BIG CLIFF CONSTRUCTION

11728

CONTACT: 246-4769

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

CARPENTER BARBER To work 5 days To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

CAICEDO PUB HOUSE

Is looking for the following:

DISC JOCKEY (D.J.)

BARTENDER LABOURER

Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 649-332-3037 11723

CONTACT: 241-6307

11731

CONTACT: 333-7296

11730

per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CHEVETTE MCPHEE

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER To work 5 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 649-941-7328

11729

Since our launch in Jamaica in 2001, Digicel has expanded rapidly and now spans 32 markets in the Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific. In recent years we have evolved into a Total Communications and Entertainment provider by broadening our products and services to include Cable TV and Broadband, Digital Advertising and Business Solutions.

We are proud to serve our valued customers across a number of different platforms at home, at work and on the go.

Employing over 6,500 people we have invested more than US$5 billion in our business worldwide to bring leading edge technologies and services to the countries in which we operate.

We take great pride in creating an EXTRAORDINARY work environment in which our people can excel. Digicel brings together smart, dedicated and energetic people from all walks of life. With 92 different nationalities represented, we are a truly global organisation.

Whether working within our technology, commercial or operational areas Digicel life is always engaging, dynamic, and above all rewarding. Our people are always looking to challenge the status quo and understand how we can be better for the good of our customers and our communities. Sound good?

VACANCY Human Resources Manager

Reports To: CEO This is a great opportunity for a proven HR Manager to be part of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to help shape, drive and deliver the HR strategy needed to deliver the goals of becoming the total entertainment provider and to be an employer of choice.

You’ll need to be able to manage all aspects of the employee lifecycle to deliver an efficient service to the team whilst driving initiatives that will make Digicel an employer of choice.

This is a stand-alone role where you’ll need to be flexible in your approach to balance the strategic initiatives as well as the day to day operational elements of the role.

You’ll be great at building effective relationships within the market as well as across the wider HR network.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to define the HR strategy for the market to support company strategy and drive employee engagement, recognition and communication • Lead and implement the initiatives defined in the HR strategy • Ensure HR Operations activities are managed to ensure an effective service to the market • Provide efficient administration around all aspects of the employee lifecycle whilst ensuring legal compliance, effective reporting and maintenance of records • Work with the CEO and SLT to lead on effective resource planning • Lead on how we attract current and future talent to Digicel Turks and Caicos • Be responsible for Recruitment and Selection for the market and recommend innovative and proactive recruitment campaigns • Manage the work permit process for our international staff whilst ensuring an effective relationship with the labour department is maintained • Support in developing the organization to ensure career development goals are met for our staff and succession planning is in place • Ensure effective on-boarding for all staff joining the team • Support and deliver on Company-wide HR Programmes related to engagement, development, succession planning and performance to support the company ambition to become an employer of choice

• To drive a culture of high performance through effective goals setting, management, performance and development reviews • Maintain a pay plan by conducting periodic pay surveys; scheduling and conducting job evaluations; preparing pay budgets; monitoring and scheduling individual pay actions; recommending, planning, and implementing pay structure revisions.

• Conduct training needs analysis across the team and work to develop training needs to deliver against these needs • Offer expert legal, generalist and best practice HR advice to SLT, Managers and line staff • Manage employee relations in the market to minimize risk and support positive company culture • Build effective relationships across the HR network to share best practice

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Degree in Human Resource Management or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• No less than 8 years experience in Human Resource Management.

• Track record in effective HR Management ability to manage in a fast paced environment • Excellent knowledge of Employment Law and HR best practices.

• Excellent communication and influencing skills Proven ability to deliver in a matrix environment • Proven relationship building skills • Proven project management skills • Strong attention to detail • Proven experience of leading all aspects of the employee lifecycle • Proven contract negotiation and budget management experience Certificates, Licenses, Registrations SHRM-SCP or SHRM-CP Certification preferred.

Deadline: Interested applicants should forward their Resume and Cover letter to hrtci@digicelgroup.com on or before 24th.

December, 2015 Qualified Belongers of the Turks and Caicos are encouraged to apply.

56

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

“Sports is my passion and my purpose” Harbour Ballers continue – Says 2015 Women in Sports honouree Gardiner run in PABA Night League

2015 has been a year of recognition for one of sports’ most dedicated officials, Rita Gardiner. Despite the achievements and her decades of service, the former TCAAA and TCI Commonwealth Games Association head still feels she has a lot left to give sports in the TCI. “This is my passion and my purpose, so I would say that I would always be involved (in sports) as long as God allows me to. It’s him that keeps me going from day to day”.

Gardiner, inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame this year and featured by the NACAC in a recent newsletter, was the honouree at the Women in Sports’ Sparkles Gala and Awards Banquet.

The event which was held at the Carnival Cruise Centre, in downtown Grand Turk last Saturday, featured Bahamian Golden Girl Pauline Davis-Thompson, who gave a touching feature address about growing up in the ghetto and overcoming adversities.

Gardiner, who devoted most of her life to sports said she was “honoured

and extremely proud” of the Women in Sports accolade.

“After giving myself freely for four decades in the area of sports and in particular to athletics and the TCAAA, an association that I’m one of the founding members of (started in 1977), it’s nice to know that people do appreciate your work especially if it’s volunteering. I do thank WIS for the award, much appreciated.”

At the Gala, Rising Stars plaques of recognition were given to national athletes Akia Guerrier and Sanadia Forbes (most outstanding academic) and Alivia Brooks (most improved) and Tanesia Gardiner. Footballer Anika Siden and softball player Destiny Missick were also rewarded for their standout performances in their respective sports.

NACAC HONOUR Adding to the award, a recent North American, Central American and Caribbean Association (NACAC) newsletter included a four page article on Gardiner, in which she was described as a trailblazing female official and lauded for her years of

Women in Sports honouree Rita Gardiner (left) receives her award from Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services, Hon. Akierra Missick.

service and dedication to sports in the TCI. Gardiner is the only founding TCAAA member still involved in the association. She serves as Public Relations Officer and Advisor to the TCAAA and Secretary General of the TCI Commonwealth Games Association.

HARBOUR Ballers continue to dominate in their return to the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League, with their sixth win in as many games.

The unbeaten side, one of the favourites for the title this season, got past the Steelers 56-44 last Friday evening after Arvardo Parker chalked up a double-double. Parker scored 15 points, pulled down 10 rebounds and dished out three assists.

The Steelers were led by Zach Rigby, who scored 14 points.

Also on Friday evening the team of Darly Francois and Galvin Hall Jr. dominated, but the Sonics went down to the Knights in a high scoring clash (90-94).

Francois scored 36 points, pulled down 11 boards, made four steals, three assists and two blocks, while Hall scored 25 points to go with seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block.

The Knights were led by the prolific Andujar Gardiner who scored 24 points. Mark Handfield added 16 points and seven rebounds.

On Saturday night the Flyers, not without some trouble, got past the Spartans 79-75 after a huge doubledouble from Dorado Fulford (30 points and 19 rebounds). Anthony Cash added 12 points and three assists, while Derion Williams finished with 11 points and 12 boards.

The Spartans were led by Devon Williams with 20 points and four steals, Driko Forbes with 16 points and nine rebounds and Trevente Williams with 15 points and four rebounds.

In the second clash the Kings secured a much needed win against an undermanned HUSTLERZ team 98 -82. Former Clement Howell High School guard Randy Rigby scored a season high 43 points, three rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Lofton Seymour added 20 points for the winners. Kirk Adams led the way for the HUSTLERZ with 35 points, 14 rebounds, five assists and three steals, while T .

Hall chipped in with 17 points and four boards.

Improved discipline note in 2015 National High School Basketball Championships – Opines Director of Sport THERE were a number of pluses in the 2015 National High School Basketball Championships which was held last week, including a discipline improvement, Director of Sport (acting) Judith Robinson opined in an invited comment.

Robinson, who has always played a significant role in the tournament, organised by the PABA this year, said that from all indications, there was a level of maturity by the players on and off the court.

“From the written reports that were presented to me, I can say that the tournament stepped up this year, in that the discipline levels of the sport and players have grown. It was also nice to see the feisty level of competition, which proves that the sport is spreading and players are improving all across the TCI.” The Hall of Famer, who is also a certified FIBA referee, said she was encouraged with the level of officiating, which bodes well for the future of the sport.

KINGS’ TROPHY The tournament, which ran from last Tuesday to last Thursday evening at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court, was won by the HJ Robinson High School Kings.

The Kings turned on the heat in

the late fourth quarter of the final to defeat competition favourites, the Clement Howell High School (CHHS) Eagles.

Coached by GT Stallions’ star player Tamaurri Lightbourne, the visitors were able to make critical stops early and hit crucial shots late, to thwart an Eagles’ fourth quarter run, which eventually won them the title (62-53).

The Kings dominated most of the game. They enjoyed a 13-7 point lead after the first quarter, but the Eagles slowly clawed away at that lead to come within four at half time (18-14). The third period saw a number of shots falling for both sides and it resulted in the Eagles picking up speed. With just a one-point lead (37-36) to start the fourth, the pace increased and soon it was anybody’s game with several lead changes.

Eagles looked good at 51-49 with several minutes to go, but a clutch three from Elton Dickenson swung the pendulum in favour of the visitors and they regained momentum. In the final moments they made their free throws to give Grand Turk bragging rights for the next year.

Dickenson and Omardi Morris scored 14 points each, Abimael Martinez added 13 and Derek Rolle 10, but it was Steffon Prospere (with an all-round seven points, seven boards and two steals) who was named finals MVP. Fedlor Sormera led CHHS with 25 points and 10 boards.

Prospere also finished with the

The 2015 National High School Basketball Champions: the HJ Robinson Kings.

most assist title in the championships, while teammate Rolle pulled down 49 rebounds to capture the most rebounds title.

The Eagles’ Wilkins Sylvain (seven points, four steals and three assists in the game) finished with the most steals in the tournament, while Wesley Methodist Stingrays’ Shadarno Clarke finished with the most blocks.

PRELIMINARY ROUND The previously unbeaten Eagles had waltzed into the final of the three-

day competition, while the Kings had a playoff with Maranatha High Blizzards to reach the championship game.

In that virtual semi-final clash, the Kings defeated the Blizzards 43-28 after Prospere had scored 16 points and Dickenson 10.

With the defeat the Blizzards settled for third place overall.

The win by the Kings was payback for a first round loss. In the second game of the tournament on Tuesday, the Blizzards had defeated the Kings 31-29. Rolle

(15 points and nine rebounds) and Dickenson (12 points) had played their parts, but an all-round effort had propelled the Blizzards to victory.

Maranatha had registered another big win on Wednesday when they defeated the 2014 champions, the BWIC Spartans in a one-point thriller 27-28.

Later in the afternoon, the BWIC were sent packing after a 51-33 loss to the Kings. Rolle dominated the boards for the winners with 20 rebounds to go with 10 points.

December 21 - January 8, 2016

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

INTER-SCHOOL TAGGED RUGBY LEAGUE:

Provo Primary, HJ and BWIC claim victories THE inaugural Inter-School Tag Rugby Festival was a huge hit earlier this month with various age ranges containing both males and females battling for supremacy at the Meridian Field.

Provo Primary won the Primary level, after getting past five other teams (another from the school and two each from Enid Capron and the International School).

Enid Capron finished a close second, with three tries in the final.

HJ Robinson won a threeway battle in the U-15 category against Provo schools: the British West Indies Collegiate and Middle School.

The games were closely fought given that they went to extra time.

The older age group, the U-19s, put on a dazzling display of tag rugby in a series of games that highlighted the group’s skills, speed and passion for the game.

Four schools took part in that division: Clement Howell, TCIPS, HJ Robinson and the

The festival had some outstanding female finishers. (Photo Charlton Studios)

BWIC. Clement Howell and HJ Robinson were remarkable, but it was the Collegiate and TCIPS who reached the final with the Collegiate taking the spoils.

CJ from TCIPS was named the MVP for the U-19 group, while Dessa Douglas from the BWIC was the most outstanding in the U-15 category.

Arna won the Primary Schools’ MVP

title, while Courtney from Enid Capron was credited for a “great show of tag rugby talent” according to the organisers.

LARGER COMPETITION The TCIRFU is hoping to make the Inter-School Festival into an annual event. In 2016 they are hoping to attract more islands and more schools. The event will be held earlier next year, either late May or early June.

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58

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016

December 21 - January 8, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 - January 8, 2016