TCWN February 27 - March 4, 2016 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 30 | No. 08 | February 27 - March 4, 2016

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UK LOAN PAID OFF The Turks and Caicos Islands Government has finally paid off $260 million worth of debt underwritten by the UK.

UK international development minister Desmond Swayne was delighted to announce the news to parliament in Westminster

SCHOLARS WIN CASE AGAINST MINISTER OF EDUCATION PAGE  4

BOYCE FIRES OVERSEAS LAWYERS PAGE 5

PAGE 

MAN, 89, ROBBED AND BEATEN IN GRAND TURK PAGE  7

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Scholars win case against Minister of Education

BY OLIVIA ROSE

TWO students who aspired to be national scholars won a landmark victory against the Minister of Education and the National Scholars Committee after they claimed they had been robbed of their scholarships. On Wednesday (February 24) Chief Justice Margaret Ramsey Hale ruled that Tristan Greene and Ryesha Higgs who tied with Davonte Smith in the third position, were all due their respective scholarships. She overturned the selection decision of the National Scholars Committee for the year 2014 which denied Greene and Higgs their awards. Smith, who was named a national scholar, stood with his peers during the case. Ramsey Hale asked the committee to return to the drawing board since the decision was not fair. The students who brought the judicial review argued that the criterion to select the top three for the 2014 year was flawed. The students indicated that because they all had at least As in 9 subjects that they should have been named national scholars. They further challenged that the selection should only have been based from among students who sat a single set of exams in one year and not from among those students who sat exams over two years, as was the case. In mounting their challenge, they alleged among other things that the minister acted irrationally, outside of her authority and breached natural

Ryesha Higgs, one of the students

justice principles. The three students raising the challenge were not satisfied that at the sub-committee level all those being considered to be named national scholars were nominated for consideration by their respective principals.

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Principals determine who the top performers are based on a point scheme. This process has its foundation in a Caricom treaty that established such committees regionally as part of CXC. BWIC write IGCSE and not CXC; they were later included in the awards. The purpose of that inclusion was to ensure that all top performing Turks and Caicos Islanders could be recognised as national scholars. While all three of the students raising the challenge had each achieved nine subjects with grades of at least an A, one of them had achieved a higher standard of 9 subjects with a grade A* and was named as the third place national scholar. A grade of A* is given a heavier weighting in IGCSE, and so this student was offered as being the best performer from his school. However the Ministry of Education is adamant that it has won 11 of the 12 allegations mounted against them in that law suit. In a release the ministry stated that it recognises the importance of judicial review which is a review process undertaken by the court “directed, not against the merits of a decision, but to the examination of the decision making process.” The ministry clarified that the judicial review of the process to establish the national scholars for the year 2014 called for principals to offer to the committee called

Minister of Education Akierra Missick

the External Examinations Sub Committee the top performer in external examinations for that year. The release read that each year the ministry, as part of its effort to celebrate the achievements of students, awards to the three top performing Turks and Caicos Islanders, from amongst those nominated by their respective schools, the honour of being called national scholars. “Among prizes given is a scholarship valued up to the sum of $40,000, to study to the Bachelor’s level, at a reputable university in the Caribbean or United Kingdom. “All three of the students who mounted the challenge are currently recipients of Government awards to BWIC to complete Advanced level studies or another institution. “As with the other graduates of that year, and once this level is completed are all eligible to apply for consideration for tertiary level scholarships. “The court did observe that it is time for a review of the policy. “This is an ongoing process. Based on the judgment of Justice Ramsey, the minister will reconsider the matter in light of the court’s analysis. “The court did rule that the minister’s decision not to award the title of national scholar on Greene and Higgs based on the criteria applied by committee and the names offered from principals to the

subcommittee was wrong.” It further noted that the minister will ask the sub-committee to once again reconsider the performance of Greene and Higgs and thereafter the minister will consider that advice and make a final decision. Leader of the Progressive Democratic Movement Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in a release celebrated the brave scholars. She said: “We also celebrate Davonte Smith for his selfless act to stand with his colleagues. “We are indeed happy for those three students who continue to be exemplary students and young citizens. “We are particularly proud of the fact that they dare to challenge a system and policy that requires an urgent review and which was evident for the past years.” Cartwright Robinson said: “This judgment hopefully will force the current minister and the ministry to finally do the right thing and to revisit its policy to ensure that students who are high achievers and who work hard are afforded opportunities that help them to grow and also to ensure that national needs are looked at from a visionary perspective thereby allowing studies in non-traditional areas for scholarships.” The Opposition leader noted that there are many high achievers who are struggling under this policy due to the recent of grants and no access to scholarships.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

UK gov’t paid off

BY JOHN TONER

THE TURKS and Caicos Islands Government has finally paid off $260 million worth of debt underwritten by the UK. On Monday (February 22) the TCIG repaid its $170 million guaranteed bond thereby completing the repayment of UK guaranteed debts. The bond, which has been repaid using a combination of $142 million in cash and a $28 million loan from RBC, was part of a $260 million UK government guaranteed refinancing package designed to lift the islands out of financial turmoil in 2011. Announcing the decision to Parliament in Westminster, UK minister for international development Desmond Swayne said: “I am pleased to announce that on February 22 TCIG repaid its remaining borrowing under this guarantee on schedule and with an outstanding borrowing need of just $28 million. “It was able to raise this amount without further recourse to the UK government for support and is expected to repay that loan over the next three-and-a-half years. “The successful conclusion of the guarantee is a credit to the resolve of the TCI public service, TCIG, the Governor’s Office and UK-financed technical experts.”

Finance Minister Washington Misick

Governor Peter Beckingham

Swayne also told the house that TCIG had progressed from deficits of $77 million in the 2010/10 financial year to a surplus in the 2012/13 year and strong surpluses thereafter. Finance minister Washington Misick expressed his delight at the news and thanked God that TCI had reached this point. He said: “This is a moment to exhale and thank the Almighty for his favour. “The convergence of sound fiscal management, vigilance of ministerial colleagues, the hard work of TCI public servants, the forbearance of the TCI people and

the cooperation of the UK together with our international and regional partners have paid off. “I especially thank senior staff in the Ministry of Finance, the CFO and the Debt Refinancing Advisor for their role in the new arrangements for the residual balance of the debt. “TCIG now has breathing space to fully reassess measures for widening the fiscal space in order to spread the benefits of growth more broadly. “It however must be said that the financial prudence that has brought us here must become a hallmark of TCIG’s governing principles.”

Premier Rufus Ewing described the repayment as a sign of the TCI’s “financial rehabilitation” adding: “The repayment of this bond, and with it the removal of the UK Government guarantee, marks a very significant step in TCI’s financial rehabilitation. “In the last few years TCI has undergone a major turnaround, not only in its economy and government finances, but also in its international reputation. “With its booming economy, BBB+ credit rating and healthy Government finances TCI is in an enviable position in the region both to invest in the socioeconomic development of its people and to attract foreign direct investment into the local economy.” Back in January the Government confirmed its intention to pay the remaining $170 million from the sinking fund and other cash resources. Accord to chief financial officer Stephen Turnbull the repayment is the fruit of five years of labour. He said: “This is the culmination of five years’ work by TCI ministers and civil servants, UK government officials and a range of international advisers to TCIG. “Creating such a rapid and dramatic improvement in TCI’s financial situation has necessitated rigorous cost controls and a cautious

approach to new investment. “With this period of ‘belttightening’ behind it, the people of TCI, acting through their Government, can now enjoy new autonomy to focus on the priorities that matter most to them.” Governor Peter Beckingham echoed those sentiments while adding that there was no room for complacency. He said: “I know that UK ministers are pleased that the bond has been repaid on time. “It was necessary at a critical juncture for Turks and Caicos Islands, and meant that the country has been able to re-establish its economic stability. “I would like to record my gratitude and thanks to a great many people in TCI, in the House, ministers, public servants and UK advisers who have helped steer TCI to what is now an increasingly enviable financial position in the region. “But there is no room for complacency, not least given our dependence on tourism, which can be fickle. “We must all continue to look at expenditure carefully, and keep in place the necessary mechanisms to ensure our finances remain robust. “I, and most importantly external observers, are confident that we will.”

Boyce fires lawyers BY JOHN TONER

Former Government minister Lilian Boyce

FORMER Government minister Lilian Boyce has dramatically ditched two of her representatives at the SIPT trial. The ex-health and education minister fired her lead attorney Gregory Lafontaine on Monday (February 22). It was reported that she felt Lafontaine had fallen short of her expectations of him as a QC representing her in the unprecedented fraud case. Boyce had apparently “lost

faith” in his ability to adequately represent her and made a request to judge Harrison to have Lafontaine and his partner Paul Cooper, both Canadian, removed as her counsel. The judge granted this request and both men formally withdrew as her legal representatives. Magnetic Media reported that Lafontaine was being paid $2,000 a day to represent Boyce and had so far received $100,000 for his work on her case since December. Boyce stands accused of conspiracy to defraud the TCI

Government along with eight other defendants at the trial which is expected to last into next year. The former minister has apparently selected new representatives but for the meantime her TCI attorney Finbar Grant, who was acting as a junior to the two Canadians, will take the lead. The decision to eject the two men will not delay the trial as lawyers continued to proceed through agreeing the proposed schedule of facts, a process expected to take weeks.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

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

GRAND TURK NEGLECTED?

GRAND Turk South representative Edwin Astwood has accused the present Government of neglecting the Islands’ capital. Astwood told a recent sitting of the House of Assembly: “Grand Turk is falling apart.” What are your thoughts?

Spend more money

Mr Astwood is correct in his observation. While I do not live in Grand Turk, I often visit and when I do, I get the same impression. Grand Turk is still the capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands and should be treated as such. For the Government to boast of surplus and leave the capital in such shambles is unconscionable. It is time we stop playing the game of us versus them and put the country as a whole first. More money should be spent on the country’s infrastructure rather than ministers’ travel with nothing to show for it. Let’s get this country back on track.

Up to the rep

I agree that Grand Turk is falling apart and so are the other islands other than Provo. The TCIG has its part to play and so does the Grand Turk representative. What has he done? Has he organised a group to see what can be done about Grand Turk? After all he is representative. Do not wait until you get in power. You can work out of power as well. In fact it is the private sector that is keeping Provo up not the TCIG. The Grand Turk representative needs to get the private sector on board if the TCIG is not doing it.

Move on

When you look at the roads, the state of Government buildings and public park areas in Grand Turk and the lack of security and healthcare available to the residents and over 800,000 cruise passengers, how can anyone deny the neglect? What is even more concerning is that the representative for Grand Turk North, George Lightbourne, was the minister with responsibility for infrastructure for the majority of the time this Government was in power. It’s time to move on from this administration

for so many reasons, this is just another one of them.

Plenty of potholes

He is absolutely correct. The tourists’ tour vehicles have to navigate potholes while residents keep falling in them - just to mention one highly noticeable example.

What’s next?

The representative from South Grand Turk is telling the truth. Since 2003 the PNP has ignored Grand Turk’s needs. Front Street will soon be in the sea. George is asleep and will lose his seat in the next election. They gave the cruise port away. They used their contractor to build the faulty sewer system, put Lisa Hall’s store at the front of welcome centre and welcomed a captive dolphin attraction. Now the school burns down, what’s next?

Party priorities

This is about priorities. The PNP works to get their Provo building back, obtain a flock of new SUVs for themselves, take overseas trips, talk about independence, set themselves up for a raise, tax everything punishing the people with high prices based on high taxes, strip education budgets and pay off a large part of the debt raised to live the high life. Now they have $30 million more debt for us to pay down for them. They fly to the capital on the people’s money and drive numerous new vehicles to the parliament while ignoring what’s happening around them.

Selfish

They can afford to do everything for themselves but nothing for the people in Grand Turk, Provo or anywhere else.

Everyone is blind

Yes indeed, he is correct. Ray Charles and

Stevie Wonder if they to visit, can see the disrepair, neglect of the streets and the environment. There were so many flies in September and December. What’s with the flies? Public health, streets filthy, debris all over the island. Let’s not mention the pallets. Why can’t they be returned on the same vehicles that bring them in? They charge you $10, why doesn’t someone collect them and return them to sender? There are buildings that simply need to be demolished - eye sores! No tourist attractions. Holes is the streets look more like volcano craters. Water in the streets because some smart person(s) removed the retaining walls. When the tide is high or there are heavy rains people have to take off their shoes or wait for cars to pass to get down the folly. I can go on and on and on. It seems to me that everyone is blind.

Vote ‘em out

That’s simple. Is it or is it not falling apart? If it is then fix it. If it isn’t then Mr Astwood needs to move on. If it is and Government does not fix it despite having the resources, then neglect is the call. In that case vote ‘em out.

Falling apart for true

That whole place is seen as falling apart fella. The world is holding its mouth when we found that former PM Misick is putting forward himself for political office! What the mess is going on down there! Yes my dear brother, yinna falling apart for true, supporting Misick in his foolishness in real life!

An embarrassment

Grand Turk is an absolute embarrassment as the nation’s capital! I had occasion to take a number of outof-country visitors just after Christmas and walking up Front Street to the Visitor’s Centre for cruise ship passengers (the only building freshly painted and not falling apart), the street was filled with garbage and debris, including beverage cans that had been there so long the sun had almost faded their labels away!

Take responsibility

Yes the Government has to improve the seawall and set up a domestic fire service (the big

ticket items), but where are the citizens who should take some pride in their surroundings and handle much of the routine clean-up? I guess the reason that farmers keep pigpens is because that’s how the residents like to live!

Taking turns

I guess we all take turns. If you remember when the PDM were in power Grand Turk got all the attention and Provo and the Caicos Islands got nothing. What goes around, comes around.

First impressions count

The capital island must receive priority. We have thousands of visitors arriving by the cruise ships and most times their visit is just for a day or a few hours. First impressions are lasting! Grand Turk has an old Bermudian charm that can be utilised to enhance its natural attraction, the old world charm of the salt industry, the donkeys, the ponds are just a few that can be capitalised upon and create a unique experience for our visitors. The entire Middle Street can become a tourist site filled with historical facts to include a square for Mary Prince. We recognise that there are some infrastructure work that are now long overdue. The sea wall needs to be replaced entirely but must be done so with sound engineering advice and not patch work and pieces. This in itself will no doubt cost lots of money, but must be done. The Lighthouse Road must be fixed and not just sand sealed and I believe this is about to get underway to include sidewalks. As we await these two major road works let us continue to do our part and keep Grand Turk clean. It is the responsibility of us all and we must do our part and prevent Grand Turk from ‘falling apart’.

 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

February 27 - March 4, 2016

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Man, 89, robbed and beaten in Grand Turk BY OLIVIA ROSE AN 89-year-old man was hauled from his bed, bludgeoned to the face and body and threatened with a knife by an unknown male who invaded his residence over the weekend in Grand Turk. Police are investigating the dreadful attack on senior citizen James Selver which has since left the man traumatised. According to a police report the 89-year-old was taken to the Cockburn Town Medical Centre where he was treated and released. Selver who sustained several lacerations about the face and body was subsequently flown to Providenciales for further treatment and care by relatives. According to reports, Selver was left unaided until a friend visited and discovered his ailing condition. Upon inquiring from Selver what took place the friend then lodged a police report on Saturday (February 20). Selver’s friend told officers that he went to visit his companion on Hospital Road, Grand Turk and found him sitting in a chair with his face swollen. The elderly man revealed that during the early hours of the morning he was awakened by an unknown male who dragged him out of his bed and beat him about his body then placed a knife around his throat demanding money.

James Selver, 89

The unknown assailant then took off with an undisclosed amount of cash. Police are seeking the public’s assistance in finding the culprit (s) who may be responsible for attacking the elderly man. Investigations are ongoing into his matter. The vile attack has been condemned by Opposition leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. In a release Cartwright Robinson said she was alarmed at the news of the brutal physical attack on the elderly resident in his own home. She said: “This act reveals the minds of the criminals that are out there and who are wreaking havoc in our otherwise peaceful societies.

SIPT admin rumbles on BY JOHN TONER

THE LATEST administrative stage of the SIPT corruption trial is almost halfway through after a solid week of work by attorneys. Lead prosecutor Andrew Mitchell has spent over a week steadily plodding through more than 1,400 proposed agreed facts with defence counsel. The aim of the process is to establish as much common ground between defence and prosecution as possible in terms of undisputed evidence. It is hoped by the prosecution that this will make the witness evidence stage of the trial run more smoothly. However, some defence

counsel had objected to this course of action and would have preferred that evidence be admitted as and when it was relevant during the witness stage but judge Harrison disagreed. All of the details in each proposed agreed fact has already been referred to by the prosecution during their enormous case opening and is now formally being introduced as evidence where possible. The process is expected to last well into next week at which point the trial will be finally be able to move onto calling the first witnesses to give evidence. All the defendants deny all the charges against them. The trial continues.

“This type of activity must be condemned in the strongest terms. “We are seriously concerned about the state of affairs in the Grand Turk and the minds of our residents there. “People are understandably fearful and having spent the past few days there, I believe that there is a growing class of people who are becoming frustrated.” She is urging residents to come forward with any information they may have on this attack and any other crimes. “I am also calling on the assailants as I did a few weeks ago, to stop before their end is regrettable. “But I am again calling on the police to apply whatever resources to bring some measure of normalcy and control where it is in their power to do.” Carthwright Robinson added: “It was only a few days ago when I addressed the issue of crime in this country while highlighting the culture of crime that is becoming common place in the nation’s capital, Grand Turk. “This is the fourth official statement that I have made on crime since the beginning of this year and I do so to evoke action on those with decision making powers, those who serve in enforcement and then to

Selver being transported to the Hospital

rally the people of this island to be willing and enthusiastic partners in the fight against crime.” The Opposition leader noted that the nation’s capital continues to experience random acts of violence, acts of alleged arson including alleged arson of a school building and in recent times more frequent burglary of homes and cars, acts of vandalism and destruction of property. Police are urging anyone with

Under the tree

information about this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1-800-8477 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: www.crimestoppers. tc. They can also contact Chalk Sound Police Station on 338-5901 or the National Crime and Intelligence Bureau via email at ncib@tcipolice. tc. Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

By Benneth Williams

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Prevention of chronic diseases high on Government’s agenda BY OLIVIA ROSE THE PREVENTION and control of chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer is high on the Government’s agenda. The Government is working assiduously to establish a new health regulatory authority along with a health service authority. The establishment of these authorities aims to enhance the regulation of healthcare and improve the efficiency of these services in the country. Premier Rufus Ewing announced recently that three major health plans have been approved by Cabinet. These are the National Health Strategic Plan, the Primary Health Care Renewal Plan and the National Action Plan. Cabinet also gave its approval for the Ministry of Health to commence public consultation on the draft NonCommunicable Disease Plan. Premier Ewing revealed at a recent Ministry of Health outreach held at Beaches Resort that his ministry will also be partnering with the health private sector to improve

and enhance primary healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This move will be made in an effort to extend the hours in which the public can have access to primary healthcare services. Further these plans will also see health personnel receiving training in critical areas to better assist citizens. On Wednesday (January 27) during his ministerial speech in the House of Assembly Premier Rufus Ewing said his administration is intensifying its focus on the provision of primary healthcare that will ensure universal health coverage and access of healthcare to all. This means that everyone will receive the health services they need without suffering financial hardship when paying for them. In outlining the policies and plans that are aimed at improving healthcare for the populace he acknowledged the strides made in healthcare over the years in the country. He said: “In 2006 the Turks and Caicos Government developed a healthcare strategy to extend the benefit of state funded healthcare to all residents in the Turks and Caicos

Diabetes testing

Islands rather than only Turks and Caicos nationals. “Recommendations were made to improve the health infrastructure at both the primary and secondary care levels to establish effective mechanisms for management and procurement of health services locally and overseas. “The healthcare renewal strategy would strengthen the foundation of affordable and sustainable

healthcare.” He noted that the strategy was based on several pillars which are: Improving the local delivery of secondary and tertiary services by the construction of two state of the art hospitals. The upgrading of primary healthcare services and facilities, the development of a healthy lifestyle initiative. The establishment of a National

Health Insurance Plan and a health financing mechanism and the development of a health sector regulatory mechanism including the formation of a health regulatory agency or health regulatory authority which would govern and monitor any sector of healthcare delivery in

CONTINUED 

New Sheriffs in town

Misick to stand for election

The Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force has appointed two new top cops. In an announcement on Thursday February 25 the RTCIPF announced a new deputy commissioner and assistant commissioner. The position of deputy commissioner was assigned to Marc Callaghan, a British officer from West Yorkshire with more than 37 years policing experience in the United Kingdom. Officer Callaghan had been police commander in Wakefield, Yorkshire, since 2007 having previously been responsible for Chapel Town in Leeds. During his time in these roles he was credited with significantly reducing robbery, gun crime and drug dealing as well as tackling antisocial behaviour. Mr Callaghan also took command of the Professional Standards and Anti Corruption Unit which was responsible for investigating complaints against police and carrying out targeted anti-corruption investigations. The RTCIPf described Officer Callaghan as “a qualified public order commander” who has also

BY JOHN TONER

BRITS AT THE DOUBLE: Callaghan’s appointment will mean that both the commissioner and deputy commissioner are British

CONFIRMED: Jones has now been confirmed in his role having been acting assistant commissioner since 2014

had responsibility for the planning and command operations involving police use of firearms. In the other appointment Wayne Jones, an officer with experience in TCI, UK and Europe, was confirmed as assistant commissioner of police. Officer Jones has served the RTCIPF for 36 years and has acted in the role of assistant commissioner since December 8, 2014. Before that he had been divisional commander for A Division since

2010 as well as commandant of the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Training School. Since then Officer Jones has attended professional development courses in TCI and a road to improve his policing skills including the International Commanders Programme in the United Kingdom. During that time he was attached to the Gloucestershire Constabulary, Stockholm County Police Authority in Sweden and the Guernsey Police.

FORMER premier Michael Misick is to stand for election this year despite being embroiled in an ongoing corruption trial. The man, who was leader of the Turks and Caicos Islands for six years between 2003 and 2009, released a statement saying that he was determined to return to politics and fight for the people of the TCI. His intention to stand for election comes despite being one of nine defendants involved in the SIPT Government corruption trial which is ongoing and expected to last into next year. Officially confirming it via his Facebook page Misick said: “The struggle to free our beloved island from colonial rule and lead them into true progress and prosperity that includes justice for ‘All Ah We’ begins with the successful re-election of the PNP. “We have seen the injustice, the erosion of longstanding democratic freedoms and the ongoing efforts to diminish the

Former premier Michael Misick

political will and voice of our people. “I believe that I still have a part to play in the struggle to liberate our people.” The 50-year-old submitted his name to the PNP, whom he led to two successful general elections, for consideration in the constituency of North and Middle Caicos where he was born. He denies all the allegations against him in the ongoing SIPT trial.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

& CrimeCourt

Thieving airport customs officer avoids jail A LIGHT fingered airport officer has been spared jail despite pocketing tens of thousands of dollars in customs revenue. An investigation by police found that Clyde Scottie Glinton, of Provindenciales, stole a total of $19,273.42 from Providenciales International Airport customs department over a two and a half month period. Cops launched their investigation after finding the funds missing from the customs department at Provo airport in early 2012. Detectives found that Glinton was the senior officer responsible

for collecting funds from the airport customs department and handing the money over to the cashier at the central office. However, between November 16, 2011, and January 8, 2012, this did not take place and on September 20, 2013, investigators arrested and formally charged Glinton for theft. On Monday (February 22) the 46-year-old pleaded guilty to the charge at the Supreme Court on Providenciales. He was sentenced to a conditional discharge of three years and a fine of $25,000 to be paid within 90 days or 12 months imprisonment.

Drug dealing arrest in Kew Town POLICE have arrested a 25-yearold man in connection with drugs offences following a raid. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force executed a search warrant at an address in Kew Town on Tuesday (February 25) and seized a quantity of cannabis and an undisclosed

amount of cash. A man was subsequently arrested and charged with possession of controlled drugs and possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply. He was later bailed pending an appearance at Magistrate’s Court on March 1.

Prevention of chronic diseases high on ... CONTINUED FROM 

the TCI “By April 2010, two new state of the art hospitals were constructed and operational through a public private partnership between the Turks and Caicos Government and IMS Health Canada Ltd. “Possible services now offered were extended well beyond that offer in 2010 with the inclusion of services such oncology, orthopaedics, neonatal and adult high dependency care in much extended visiting consultant program to include services such as ophthalmology, urology that are much demand today. “The ministry continues to strengthen its capacity to monitor, evaluate and implement value for money, quality of services improvement strategy through the contact management

unit and service review board. “The critical audit report had recommended closure of the Grand Turk hospital but this Government had made a policy decision that closing the Grand Turk hospital is not an option and neither is the reduction and the scaling down of the vital in house services or visiting services such as ophthalmology.” He noted that wherever healthcare deficiencies exist they will be corrected. “While it is important to fund and ensure the provision of high quality secondary locally and tertiary healthcare services locally and overseas, such acts cannot continue to be at the expense of primary healthcare.” The Minister of Health pointed out that although the provision of secondary care services has improved significantly on the Islands there is much more room for improvement.

NEWS

Haitian woman admits to money laundering BY JOHN TONER A HAITIAN woman is facing jail after confessing to number of money laundering charges. Nathanelle Louis, originally from Haiti, has pleaded guilty to her part in transferring criminal funds out of the country back in February 2015. An investigation carried out by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force revealed that Louis was contacted on Facebook by a person she did not know who offered her a job. Her ‘job’ involved her bank

account being used to transfer cash abroad as part of a money laundering operation. She was to evaluate and comment on customer services at Money Gram and Western Union to give the appearance of legitimacy to the transactions. Louis provided her bank account number which money was transferred into so that the evaluations could be carried out and she was then paid 10 percent of the value of the transaction. Between Thursday, February 26, and Friday, February 27, 2015, a total

Double burglary in Blue Hills THIEVES have burgled two homes in the middle of the night stealing a number of electronic goods including a microwave oven. Both incidents happened on Monday (February 22) in Blue Hills during the early hours of the morning while the victims slept in their beds. In one burglary a man and his wife were woken up at 3am by a man making a getaway with a microwave. Upon making further checks he found his house keys and a handbag belonging to his wife on the front

porch and later called the police. On the same night a man who went to sleep in Blue Hills at 2am woke up at 6am only to find he had been robbed of a number of items. Goods taken included a 40” flat screen Sankey television, a standing fan, three Samsung smartphones, a Digicel DL900 phone, a pair of Nike shoes, one G-Shock watch and an undisclosed amount of cash. Police are urging anyone with information about either incident to contact them using Crime Stoppers on 1-800-8477 or by using the online reporting page at www.crimestoppers.tc.

Police hunt Long Bay lurker INVESTIGATORS are searching for a masked thief after two burglary incidents in Long Bay this week. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) were called at 5am on Wednesday (February 24) to reports of a man ripping open a window screen to grab goods from a woman’s home. Police say the victim was woken up by a noise and saw a hand reaching through a tear in her window screen trying to steal an iPad from her nightstand. The woman was able to grab it before the thief but he managed to get away with a black Blackberry Z10 smartphone, a Scotiabank debit card and a gold tone Fossil watch. Officers attended the scene but no suspicious people were spotted. Another call was made at 5.02am on the same day again in Long Bay by another woman who was woken up by continuous noises coming from the ground floor of her house.

When the victim went downstairs to check she saw a man trying to break open her sliding door using a tyre wrench and a piece of wood. The suspect was unable to get the door open but when he spotted the woman he demanded that she put money on a table in front of the door for him. The victim told the man she had no money and that she was calling the police at which point he fled the scene. Officers said the suspect is described as built, wearing black clothing with a black mask and a low haircut. RTCIPF officers attended the scene but the suspect was gone by the time they arrived. Police have launched an investigation into both matters which are ongoing and are urging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1-800-8477 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page at www.crimestoppers.tc.

of $12,240 was withdrawn from the victims account in three instalments. First on the February 26 two withdrawals of $4,620 and $3,000 were made and then a final transaction of $4,620 the following day. The money was then sent to Louis’ account, withdrawn and sent via Money Gram to people not known to her outside the Turks and Caicos Islands. Louis has pleaded guilty to concealing criminal property, removing criminal property from the Islands and possession of criminal property, all covered by the proceeds of crime ordinance. She is due to be sentenced on Monday (February 29).

Man charged in soap powder heist THE SOAP powder burglary took another twist this week as a 51-year-old man was charged. Police were called earlier this month by an alarmed Turtle Cove resident who came home to find beach items and a box of soap powder missing amid signs of a burglary. A 51-year-old man was later taken into custody on Monday, February 8. On Tuesday (February 23) he was formally charged with burglary and will appear in court later this week.

Window shattered for CDs A WOMAN has had her car window smashed just for a few CDs. The victim woke up on Saturday, February 20, just before 8am and found the front passenger window of her 2011 Toyota Camry smashed open. Upon searching the vehicle she found that a number of CDs had been taken as well as a set of keys. The incident was reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force who are currently investigating.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Civil servants’ approach One sided stories Dear Editor, I am writing to express my concern about a very frustrating issue that continually occurs in the Government department offices. It is extremely sad and heartrending to witness the unprofessional and callous attitude that certain individuals display when dealing with customers. Persons employed in the hospitality industry are trained to ensure that their attitude towards guests and customers is excellent and they give the best service at all times. Can’t civil servants adopt this

principle? The attitude that they display is an embarrassment to Turks and Caicos Islands Government. The Immigration Department’s One Stop Shop is one of those where some employees are very rude, impatient, disrespectful and unprofessional. Numerous non-Turks and Caicos Islanders can testify to that, especially those persons for whom English is a second language. One of the most frustrating exercises is trying to obtain a permanent resident certificate (PRC). When one submits an application in Providenciales and documents and

information are sent to Grand Turk to be processed, it is impossible to get any information from the office even after several months. Do the staff in Provo and Grand Turk communicate? One would certainly hope so. Good service is a very important factor in ALL industries regardless of the issue or the client. I am asking kindly that the Government takes action to remedy this serious issue. Yours sincerely, Concerned Citizen, Providenciales

MILLS MUSES

Political psychology: A newly found strategy? POLITICAL psychology is about figuring out how a political operative behaves, thinks and what they are up to. It analyses moods, appearances and the body language of competitors to form a picture of who the political rival is and suggests how he or she is likely to react in given situations. A profile is built and strategies developed to deny him political advantage. One writer sees political psychology reflected in a candidate displaying competence and warmth. He has neither of these qualities but the politics of the situation requires he puts on an act if he is to be successful. Another writer notes that when it was claimed Obama was a Muslim, to counteract this he was advised to emphasise he was a Christian, since stating a competing message is more effective than denying the claim. This shows political psychology in action since the claim would soon fade away. Political psychology ensures we vote because of the influence of psychological strategies. We surrender our minds to the fancies of others. In the TCI, political psychology is shown when candidates make promises they cannot keep but

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.

expect voters to believe them. If they are elected the psychology worked. Another strategy is to appeal for support on the party’s behalf hoping people will again buy in. And, to paint an unfavourable picture of the Opposition, the aim is to create fear of what their prospects would be if citizens withhold support from the Government. We also bait others hoping they will disclose their political leaning. At the workplace political psychology is used to devalue others, carry news for favours and spread mistrust. It involves making friends to get status in a country but with no allegiance to it. Urging influential persons to hire you when the credentials are lacking. Describing someone as nice, then backstabbing them, fearing the quality of their work will bring recognition, since the person’s competence shows up the tale teller’s

incompetence. A devious example of political psychology is when a person ignores another’s achievements and says one thing positive and another unkind, which causes others to remember only the negative. When exposed the person retracts marginally by valuing the other in one breath but then subtly injects another negative. The aim is to give the appearance of being without sin while holding on to what was initially imputed. The person who uncovers the real deal is then seen as being without honour. Is political psychology a newly found strategy or have we always practiced it without using the term? We manage political psychology by staying alert to what is being put in the marketplace and not be taken in by it.

Dear Editor, Week after week I read the commentary column written by the goodly gentleman from Middle Caicos. It is evident by his written diatribe that he is a PDM supporter (nothing wrong with that) and writes as such. Some years ago some editor called him out. It was clear then and still is today that he does not have an objective bone in his body and writes one sided stories. Most of the time they are not factual, far removed from reality and designed to pander to onesided politics rather than to have meaningful written dialogue worthy of a response. I am no spring chicken and old age is not pleasant, but I must say it affects some more so than others. My concern is that this individual is allowed to pander his ramblings on other websites. He must be challenged for some of the absurd statements he makes, his ramblings seem to be getting worse. He used to write about his dear brother-in-law who in his words did so many wonderful things for the people of Middle Caicos, and now that he is on the other side, we hear no more about his accomplishments. Poor Soul Sam. In his recent letter he attacked one our most esteemed families from South Caicos, the Mills brothers, because Oliver called him out over his disrespect for Dr Mills. By the way Oliver continue to write you are a step above the man, he has some nerve to relegate your articles to political leanings. He took the time to question the credentials of Dr Carlton Mills and admitted that he does not know them. You could have asked any born and bred Islander or better yet call Dr Mills directly. Dr Mills is one of our most educated Islanders and is held in high esteem, he is one of the first Turks and Caicos Islanders to obtain a PhD in Education from the University of Sheffield, UK. May not be a big deal from where you came from but for us

as Islanders, with such a small indigenous population, I dare say we are proud. No his degree did not come from the internet or from some obscure university rather EARNED. We are all pleased that Dr Mills came back into education and whether he was Minister of Education in the past does not make a difference, it shows his love and commitment to his people. In your commentary, you were indeed lucky when you met a ‘classic West Indian women’ as she provided healthcare as a nursing assistant to your ill relatives. The right thing was to return to TCI and retire, but you know nothing about indigenous Turks and Caicos Islanders, we have a proud history of family connections. By the way, Dr Mills’ mother was born and bred in Bambarra and his father was from the Mills of Cockburn Harbour. Your comment on individual family is so one sided it made me cringe, obviously you know nothing of TCI family name and heritage and definitely know nothing about South Caicos families. You said: “Sharlene has a strong family and is anchored in family as were all PDM leaders, save one.” Those comments are so judgmental. He who is without sin cast the first stone! I recall some years ago you left your family in the USA. Are you saying PDM leaders were/are better than PNP leaders or that they do not come from of have “strong families”? I advise you not to go there, you may open a can of worms that may go far back to generations. You may hear facts such as promiscuity, wife beating and cheating, illegitimate children, teenage pregnancies with some never being able to recover, dope smoking. But then again let us not judge. You simple do not have all the facts to determine who is a strong family or not. Stick to your hydraulic engineering. J T Williams

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

February 27 - March 4, 2016

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Operation Zika Prevention 2016 to be launched soon BY OLIVIA ROSE THE MINISTRY of Health has pledged a zero tolerance approach to the zika virus and is gearing up to launch a campaign dubbed operation Zika Prevention 2016. The campaign will see several measures being taken to prevent the zika virus in the Turks and Caicos Islands. These measures include fogging in communities, a sensitisation exercise and a national clean up drive, as well as providing mosquito nets for all registered pregnant women and people residing in vulnerable communities, and training of healthcare workers on vector borne disease preparedness and response. The Government has approved $327,433 emergency funds to procure additional resources and increase manpower ensure that TCI remains zika free. The money will also be used for the procurement of mosquito repellents which will be distributed throughout the Islands while additional fogging machines will be purchased by the Department of Environmental Health to intensify fogging in communities. Cabinet has granted its approval for a reduction in the tariff for the purchasing hand held fogging machines. Premier Rufus Ewing at a recent press conference acknowledged that

Premier Rufus Ewing

while the Government is intensifying its prevention efforts, citizens too have a role to play in eliminating mosquito breeding grounds from their homes. According to the Premier the Environmental Health Department has outlined a plan of action to delineate the various resources and needs that will be required to step up efforts. He said: “Right now we have spraying ongoing in a number of islands including Providenciales and there will be need for more fogging, there will be need for more personal protection.” Infomercials are also expected to be prepared to sensitise citizens on preventative measures. Director of the Environmental Health Kendrick Neely outlined some of the measures that will be

implemented and those that are already ongoing. “We have increased house to house inspections because the Aedes aegypti mosquito, we call it the house mosquito they live around our homes, hotels so we’ll be stepping that up.” He is urging the community to support the department in this effort by ensuring their surroundings are kept clean. The Government has also partnered with the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) and other civic groups which will see a national clean-up campaign being rolled out soon. The World Health Organisation declared a global emergency over the explosive spread of the zika virus, which has been linked to birth defects in the Americas. The Turks and Caicos Islands remains zika free to date. The zika virus infection is caused by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, the same mosquito responsible for the transmission of dengue and chikungunya. The most common symptoms of zika virus infection are mild fever, skin rash, conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye), muscle or joint pain, and general malaise. The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week. There is no specific treatment or vaccine for zika.

Aedes aegypti mosquito

Due to the prevalence of the Aedes aegypti mosquito in the TCI, and the country’s close proximity and regular flights to countries with confirmed cases of zika like Haiti and Puerto Rico, the Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance activities and enhanced its vector control measures. BELOW ARE A FEW TIPS: • Apply insect repellent on exposed skin liberally. • When weather permits, wear longsleeved shirts and long pants. • Use air conditioning or window/ door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. • If you are not able to protect yourself from mosquitoes inside your home or hotel, sleep under a mosquito net. • Help reduce the number of

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• • • • • • • •

mosquitoes inside and outside your home by: Check around buildings for anything that could hold water, inspect your home and yard weekly Turn containers over or cover them. Get rid of or cover old tires. Properly dispose of all garbage/ refuse. Cover boats, children’s pools, water drums and rain barrels etc. Clean rain gutters and make sure they are flowing properly. Check screens for holes. Empty standing water from containers such as flower pots or buckets. For additional information regarding the zika virus, contact the Health Promotion Unit on 338-3064.

COMMENTARY

Who deserves respect? ARETHA Franklin sang about it and the dictionary defines it. Respect, “admiration for someone or something based on their achievements, abilities and qualities.” We believe we all understand achievements and abilities which are demonstrated by accomplishments. Quality in our opinion is demonstrated through integrity. Is the reverse true? If someone fails to achieve or goes against one’s own beliefs for personal gain do they fail to deserve respect? In the TCI political process the question of respect needs examination. You cannot buy or sell respect. Achievement in politics is moving the country forward honesty for the benefit of all the people. Moving forward honesty

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

deserves respect. This is my belief and we believe most will agree. I further believe most people do not want to be victimised or marginalised by someone who uses their academic achievements to assume intellectual status then talk down to them. In my opinion a fisherman, farmer or carpenter deserves respect because he has honestly supported his family. A teacher deserves respect because they have passed knowledge on to their students while honestly

earning a living. Degrees, diplomas and/or titles are only meaningful when they are tools for achievement. Politicians are expected to reach out to help all the people including supporters of all political parties. We have people and a party that have proven unworthy of respect. They have broken laws, served jail time. Others in that party set out to enrich themselves at the expense of

all the people. We do have a political individual who deserves universal respect, Honourable Derek Taylor. He does not preach or make false promises or assign himself titles. Taylor has proven through achievement that the core beliefs and principles of his PDM party deserve respect. Keep taxes low, protect the environment and open doors of opportunity for all the people. Development and developers must be carefully examined for their ability to fulfil their agreements with the Government and the people. This is not an instant process. Most successful developers have been vetted during Chief Derek Taylor’s eight years. These same settled satisfied developers were tampered with by another leader and party. Taylor as chief minister did not

desire honorariums, fancy SUV vehicles or jet planes. That is called integrity. He demonstrated his genuine respect for God. The person who disrespected Taylor in parliament for his belief in God is now in court deeply challenged. Challenged for allegedly stealing millions from all the people. Challenged for alleged corrupt mismanagement and promoting incompetents that put the people and country deeply in debt for years to come. His brother failed at every enterprise and lost millions of the people’s pension fund which he used as his own cash cow. Other brothers allegedly acted as conduits for the people’s stolen millions. We need to ask ourselves who and what party deserves respect?

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

North Caicos got talent BY MARGUERITE ANDERSON ONE of the most awaited events in North Caicos is an annual PreValentine show hosted by Raymond Gardiner High School. With a vibrant music and performing arts programme at the school, the entertainment package has been one of increasing high-quality performances from the students. It is safe to say that a set of upcoming entertainers are fast emerging from the garden island of North Caicos. The show, Fashtal, held on Saturday, February 9, at Horse Stable Beach Complex was staged as the school’s main fundraising event and this year the display of talents among students was nothing short of astounding. Fashtal, a name coined when the

concept of merging a fashion and a talent show came to mind, was a romantic entertainment package which rolled out the red carpet for those who annually anticipate the school event. The high school kick-started the island’s line up of activities which commemorates the Valentine celebrations throughout North Caicos. Music teacher Benjamin Lewis, whose skills and talents have given birth to a prolific band of musicians at Raymond Gardiner High School, has been contributing greatly to the diversified creative culture of the island. Both the music department and the performing arts programme have been helping students to hone their creative skills and each year new performers take to the stage.

The show which got off to a late start, was in full swing by 8pm and was emceed by Cynclair Musgrove (Lady C). The accompanying band comprised of students, both past and present, along with the school’s music instructor and bass guitarist, Benjamin Lewis. Omel Gardiner and Edwin Forbes, both former students of the institution, formed part of the dynamic team of musicians which set the ambiance for a romantic evening of entertainment pleasure. Briann Gardiner, a third year student who plays the keyboard was part of the band. The show opened with the audience being led on a nostalgic journey of old-hit love tunes performed by students. Among the talents displayed

were vocal selections from Pandel Lightbourne, Danielle Walker, Jessica Corvil, Lexianna Stubbs, to name a few. There were duo performances by the St-Fleaurant sisters, Ruth and Ludmie, also by Savana McCogg and Antwan Arthur. The audience witnessed a delightful display of dance, a spectacular fashion show, and guest performance from Stafford Salmon who is known to ‘rock the house’ once he graces the stage. As if there were no end to the dynamism of talents, the line-up of entertainment was sweetened with instrumental performances from Joshua-St Michael Meghoo and from McKeever Lewis. Meghoo blew the minds of his audience with his saxophone’s soulful sound of the Righteous

Brothers’ ‘Unchained Melodies’ while McKeever Lewis serenaded the audience with Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’. Other instrumental pieces were done by student Lea-Biema Dorestin and by former student Edwin Forbes. Forbes closed the show with a stunning performance which had the audience captivated as they listened and watched with abated breath. There was no doubt that the show left the audience wanting for more. Principal Janet Walkin extended a hearty thank you to Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs who sponsored 30 tickets for students who entertained at the fundraiser. She also expressed appreciation for the concerted efforts of parents, sponsors, and all others who contributed to making the event a success.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Saving Our Boys workshop aimed at curbing violence in school BY OLIVIA ROSE IN AN effort to curb the spate of violence among male students at HJ Robinson High School the Department of Youth Affairs has arranged a day for male students to discuss the consequences of fighting and what is causing their behavioural changes. The one day workshop ‘Saving Our Boys’ was held at the school on Wednesday (February 24). Speaking to the Weekly News senior programme officer Nixon Dickenson highlighted that the boys will discuss youth violence and the society with a special emphasis on the relationship between violence and the impact on family, individual and society. Dickenson said: “We wanted inclusive workshops so that these young men may understand the extent of youth violence that’s on a rise in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and we want them to understand some of the outcomes so we put together these seminars and workshops. “It really made an impact last year in the secondary schools, it was so powerful that we implemented an ongoing programme, so we’re

hoping that with part two of this they will have a clear understanding the consequences if they continue.” He noted that the interactive session with the students will also feature a discussion on the different approaches to solving conflicts, the benefits to be derived from conflict solving, management and total transformation. Dickenson said: “We will have our inmates speaking we will have persons that actually play a role in the society that will speak and try to impart some knowledge within them, that if they continue down this path it won’t look pretty.” The workshop will be rolled out under the theme, ‘Changing course: Preventing youths from joining gangs (the role of family, counsellors, religious institutions, community, and government).’ In addition students are expected to actively participate and discuss options and appropriate behaviour instead of lashing out when they feel like hitting someone and the steps to take toward resolving the problem of fighting at school. They will also be given advice on how to handle fights that break out between siblings at home.

Programme officers Nixon Dickenson and Ryan Williams

Officers in discussion with the students

Students of the Robinson High School at the Saving Our Boys workshop

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Activities all week celebrate TCI’s education sector EDUCATION Week will be observed next week from February 28 to March 4 under the theme ‘Success for every learner’. The week’s activities will begin with ecumenical services across the country and end with Teacher’s Day, a Government press release stated. One of the key activities for Education Week 2016 is the inaugural TCI Museum’s High School History and Heritage Quiz Competition. The event is in observance of the museum’s 25th anniversary. The week begins on Sunday, February 28, with an ecumenical service at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in Grand Turk at 11am. Guest speaker is Father Mark Kendall.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

There will also be an ecumenical service at Paradise Baptist Church, Five Cays, Providenciales at 3.30pm. Guest speaker is the Reverend Bradley Handfield. On Monday, February 29, there will be an ecumenical service at Wesley Memorial Methodist Church in South Caicos at 9am. Preacher is Jas Walkin. There will be combined devotions at the Church of God of Prophecy, Bottle Creek, from 9am to 10.30am. On Tuesday, March 1, the TCI Museum History and Cultural Heritage Quiz finals will take place at Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex from 1pm. Then on Wednesday, March 2, the FortisTCI National Science Fair

Quiz is taking place at Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex. The primary schools competition starts at 9am and the high school competition begins at 1pm. The judging of the exhibits takes place the next day from 9.30am to 10.30am, the opening ceremony at 11am, the viewing of the public exhibits from 11.45am to 6pm and the prize giving ceremony at 3.30pm. On Friday, March 4, Teacher’s Day will be held in schools throughout the country. Parents and community partners and are encouraged to come out in support of the various activities and join in the quest to achieve success for every learner.

Grouper season begins THIS Sunday (February 28) is the final day of the closed season for Nassau Grouper for 2016. The Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) issued a reminder to all fishing interests, restaurants and general public this week.

In it the department appealed to citizens, residents and visitors in the Turks and Caicos Islands, to familiarise themselves with and to uphold the Fisheries Regulations. Any violations should be reported to DEMA on 338 4170 or environment@gov.tc.

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

I SINCERELY APOLOGISE

BY SHANIEL SWABY (CHHS) I sincerely apologise my dear high and mighty gods, For my skin is not as white as snow, Nor is it the colour of my supposedly white shirt That is now painted and decorated with dashes of blood That escaped from my freshly opened wounds. Oh heavens forgive me That my skin is a different shade From the people who I am forced to call masters, The people, no, the supreme beings who roam the grounds And leave mighty footprints on the soil of the earth. For it is their island now. Not ours. Sit, listen, it’s the sound of the police

Kindergarten cop reads to kids BY JOHN TONER YOUNGSTERS were so “overjoyed” to see a top cop who had come to read to them they shouted “Police!”.

Kindergarteners at Enid Capron Primary School were delighted to welcome acting Assistant Superintendent Butterfield to their Annual Literacy Drive. Officer Butterfield read ‘Green

Fire in the dark COPS are investigating a fire that ripped through an unfinished building in the dead of night. Investigators from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) and firefighters were called to the blaze at 2.20am on Tuesday (February 23). Flames could be seen coming from the downstairs windows and smoke was pouring out of the front door of the building in Breezy Brae. Firefighters were able to put out the fire almost immediately and nobody is reported to have

been hurt. Police officers discovered that a window at rear of the building had been broken and the front door was open. The owner of the building was on the scene and told officers he had last locked up on Sunday, February 21, at 5.30pm. RTCIPF are currently investigating the matter. Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact them via Crime Stoppers on 1-800-8477 or by using the Crime Stoppers online reporting page at www.crimestoppers.tc.

Eggs and Ham’ and ‘Mr Brown Can Moo’ from the Dr Seuss collection to the eager audience during the visit on Monday (February 22). She also told the children that officers from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) are friends and there to protect them. She said: “An early love of reading often translates into a thirst for knowledge that lasts a lifetime. “It gives them a positive idea of what officers are and that we are here to help them, we are here to guide them.” The Annual Literacy Drive is an initiative designed to engage parents, community, staff and students to promote the important of reading and writing. School principal Garland said: “The programme is designed to assist the students with their reading and writing skills. “We have planned a read aloud with community persons, parent workshops in literacy and each month a teacher’s workshop in literacy. “We are thankful for the police taking time from their busy schedule to come and read to our students.”

I sincerely apologise my dear gods and goddesses For I have sinned Even the clouds up above have the colour that Is accepted by many The colour that divides you from the Kings of Kings And the Lords of Lords. Oh immortals forgive me, For my skin that caused your face to scrounge up In repugnance My skin that does not hold the power to blossom A bright and blinding shade of red That shows my frustration when I am beaten And bruised In case you forgot the anguish that you have caused Because it seems to me that you sometimes forget, That the red pigment on my shirt would gladly tell the tale. I sincerely apologise my dear Lords For my skin that is made up of the dark pigment That gives me the magnificent beauty That your skin lacks. The melanin that allows me to fight against the scorching Rays of the sun; The melanin, that keeps my skin from burning For it is well known that you could never dear To look at the sun’s gleaming eyes. Oh heavens forgive me If I overstepped my boundaries But it had to be said. I am not ashamed of owning a colour that Resembled clumps of burned ashes For I know that those ashes With the wind, would rise one day.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

February 27 - March 4, 2016

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW

Red wasps Hello Denis, I have a big problem with red wasp above the grass behind my house. There are so many of them that I’m afraid it will becomes dangerous. I can’t find the nest, so what can I do? Virginia Dear Virginia, The answer to this question is you don’t want to get rid of these wasps. They may scare you because of their size and because they are very curious about people and pets, but regardless of how fierce they look they rarely sting. Don’t swat at them. Leave them alone and they will leave you alone too. They look fearsome and quite intimidating and send terrified gardeners running for a weapon but little do they know that it is a peaceful insect and a beneficial

BY DENIS BELANGER - NATURE SPLENDOR

Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.

predator of garden pests. They have an amazing life, and should be welcomed to your flowers. Great golden digger wasps (Sphex ichneumonus) are found throughout North America, Mexico, Central and South America, and even in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Sphex ichneumonus is a large and intimidating member of the wasp family. They live solitary lives and do not defend territory or nests like their paper wasp cousins do. The adults feed on nectar from flowers and rarely notice any other creatures except to beat a hasty retreat when something larger approaches.

Sugar free chewing gum A NEW study has recently been published in the UK which appears to show the benefit of chewing sugar free gum as part of your dental hygiene regime. The study was conducted by the Peninsula Dental School at Plymouth University and the Wrigley Company, which, as a company that produces chewing gum, you cannot be criticised for thinking has a rather vested interest in demonstrating this benefit. So, what really is the truth here? Firstly, I would state that nothing should replace brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day. This is the primary and most important step you can take in maintaining great oral hygiene and thus a healthy teeth and gums. Chewing sugar free gum is no substitute for this!

Regular dental check-ups are also vital in maintaining good dental health and ensuring any potential problems are identified and rectified early. However, the British Dental Health Foundation recommends that, while brushing for two minutes, twice a day is still the best way to keep teeth clean and healthy, for children over the age of seven, chewing sugar free gum during the day can be effective in neutralising harmful plaque acids and reducing the risk of decay. Chewing sugar free gum after eating and drinking increases the production of saliva, which helps to wash away food particles and neutralise harmful plaque acids which, over time, can weaken teeth and lead to tooth decay. It also promotes the

Sometimes a group of these wasps can be observed flying close to the ground. They may have found a suitable area to dig nests or a concentration of prey insects may live there. They are not part of an organised colony, simply individuals that prefer the same habitat. These wasps have a unique life cycle and it is quite amazing to watch one work. The female digs a chambered tunnel in open ground and proceeds to stock it with food for her young to eat. She searches for insects from the family of long-horned grasshoppers.

These include various crickets, katydids and grasshoppers. She captures one in her grasp and with her sting paralyses it. It is then flown or dragged to the entrance of her burrow. Great golden digger wasps are not aggressive but do sting if handled so just let them go about their business of eliminating pests from your garden and drinking from your flowers. Those who garden with nectar plants to attract butterflies shouldn’t worry either. These wasps only hunt members of the grasshopper family so the butterflies are perfectly safe. They are great pollinators so should be welcomed in fruit and vegetable gardens also. It is perfectly safe to walk through a group of great golden digger wasps going about their business.

THE DENTIST AND YOU  Mark Osmond BDS (Lond) LDS RCS (Eng). Mark Osmond Dental Clinic - (649) 432 3777, drmosmond@gmail.com or Find us on Facebook

remineralisation of tooth enamel. These benefits are also recognised by the World Dental Federation and endorsed by the British Dental Health Foundation. Tooth decay is preventable but treating it is an increasing burden on the UK National Health Service and for personal family finances. The latest UK Government figures show that young people experience unacceptably high levels of tooth decay and that it can have a real impact on their self-esteem as well as their health, with 35 percent of 12-year-olds reporting being embarrassed to smile or laugh due to the condition of their teeth. Professor Liz Kay of Peninsula Dental School, (Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry) and co-author of the study says: “The findings of this study are hugely exciting as they reveal a new and easy way of helping people improve their oral health. “Clinical evidence has already proved that sugar free gum can help

prevent caries and now we can also see a clear financial advantage.” Her comments are in relation to the savings that could be made in the UK National Health Service, but can relate equally to each of us and our pockets. Dr Mike Dodds, lead oral health scientist at Wrigley, said: “This study demonstrates the role that sugar free gum can play in preventing dental decay.

They may be curious and fly over to investigate but will remain peaceful. The great golden digger wasp is a beneficial insect and should be considered an asset in any type of garden. Step back and observe one of the most unique inhabitants in the garden. They are doing their part to eliminate insects that otherwise would do damage to the very garden you wish to rid of these ‘pests’. My advice would be to take a deep breath and learn to live with these wasps, if this is not possible you can always treat every hole you discover with Tempo 1 percent dust. This will kill off adult wasps as they come and go from the nesting hole.

By Dr Mark Osmond

“Wrigley is committed to supporting people across the UK to improve their oral health through the simple step of chewing sugar free gum after eating and drinking, especially while they’re on the go.” So in summary, using sugar free gum can be beneficial in maintaining good dental health but never trade this off for simple tooth brushing and regular dental visits.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

FASHION AND BEAUTY 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

By Easher Parker

Easher is a Turks and Caicos Islands native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. If you have any questions or suggestions for a topic email easherparker@gmail.com. To find out more visit itseasher.com or follow twitter or Instagram @itseasher for fab instant updates.

Clothing colour pallet WELL, hello my glam and gorgeous gems! I missed all of you and I know it’s been a while. There’s so much we have to talk about but considering spring is practically here, we’ll just start things off short and sweet with some basic wardrobe wisdom. Hopefully I caught you guys just before the spring cleaning shopping sprees! Now I know if you’re a style enthusiast like myself then you already have in mind how you’re going to coordinate your ensembles with the birds, bees and blooming flora. My question to you is how confident are you in your colour pallet this season? Let’s take a moment to reflect on the times you absolutely loved a something in the beginning only for it to end up collecting dust in your closet. What a waste of hard earned money and it’s so easy to avoid that. The ‘how’ goes back to what I continuously preach. It won’t happen overnight but you have to get to know yourself and what works for you. That way you can invest with a new found confidence in items that are going to become timeless staples and not exhibits of trends that should have never happened. We already know it’s common sense to purchase figure-flattering pieces. The catch is to consider going by colours that compliment your undertones. Flattering your eyes is not the same as flattering your undertones. It’s easy to pick out things that we like and not what’s best suited for us. When we’re talking about style, undertone by definition is the colour beneath the surface of your skin. There are three categories and the concept has some complexities. However for we’ll cover the surface and pick up on the finer details later. Warm undertones have green or olive veins on their wrists and their skin appears yellow in the sun and contain very little redness. They tend to tan easily (darker complexions are not excluded from this). The simplest hack is the metal test. Gold or brass finishes should flatter you more than silver. If this is you, then you’d look ah-mazing in colours like pumpkin, salmon, and rust or even chartreuse. If you’re opting to rock this season’s colour trend, aim for the muted tones of pinks and mauves. Cool undertones have veins on their wrists that are blue or purple. Silver is your ideal metal if you fit the description. There is a pink hue to the skin with red tones especially around your eyes and nose. On top of that, cool undertones tend to burn easily in the sun. Intense or icy colours look fantastic on cool undertones. Examples include frosty pink, yellows and blues. Your palette also includes true green, red, blue, and emerald, black and white. Soft, true or shocking pink will work fine on you this season. Neutral undertones are a rarity. If the veins on your wrist are bluegreen, both gold and silver jewellery flatter your skin. Neutral undertones don’t have any distinguishable pink or yellow undertones. If you fit within this bracket then you are the envy of women around the world because you look fabulous in any shade! Colour is magic and can work in your favour. I just hope you’re prepared for the endless compliments and savings! Remember to keep up with me on Facebook and Instagram, hashtag #itsEasher.

NEWS 17

Jamaican cop in Bermuda awarded millions for damages from exposure to mould A JAMAICAN police officer is in line to receive more than US$4 million in damages after he suffered chronic health problems following exposure to toxic mould while working at two of Bermuda’s police stations, the Royal Gazette newspaper said on Tuesday. Emmerson Donald, 44, was provisionally awarded $2.5 million in lost earnings and $1.5 million for future medical expenses as a result of his condition on top of the $450,000 he has already been paid for “pain and suffering”. The ruling by Chief Justice Ian Kawaley is believed to be the first case where substantial damages have been awarded in Bermuda for a mould injury case. Donald, who came to Bermuda in 2000 to join the Bermuda Police Service after seven years’ police experience in Jamaica, was exposed to the toxic mould at Hamilton and Somerset police stations. Last month Donald and his lawyer Richard Horseman took their claim to the Supreme Court after the Ministry of Works and Engineering admitted liability. In his ruling, the chief justice made clear that both parties could still make further submissions about the total damages if they were not agreed on. “The total award for loss of earnings, subject to any adjustments as may be advised by or agreed between counsel is: $97,713 (past earnings), $1,133,594 (Bermuda Police Service future) and $1,495,886 (less two years — second career),”

Emmerson Donald was provisionally awarded $2.5 million in lost earnings and $1.5 million for future medical expenses as a result of his condition on top of the $450,000 he has already been paid for “pain and suffering”.

he said. “These amounts are based on figures calculated by the plaintiff’s expert applying a discount rate, which was essentially agreed. “Subject to the parties hopefully agreeing the adjustment required to give effect to a 13-year rather than a 15-year second career, the total award for loss of earnings is in the region of $2.5 million.” The chief justice further ruled: “The total future medical expense award, assuming a life expectancy of 21 more years, is accordingly $1,120,000 for (kidney) transplant and dialysis, $346,978 for ongoing medical expenses and $105,000 for risk of additional serious illnesses, that totals $1,571,978.” The Supreme Court heard he was

an “outstanding” officer with an exemplary record until he first fell ill with chronic renal failure in 2003. In a sworn statement, Donald said his “body and mind were broken down” and his “life was hijacked” by the illness. Donald, who still undergoes dialysis three times a week, maintained he could have be promoted through the ranks all the way up to superintendent by 2022 had it not been for his medical condition. In relation to his future promotional prospects, Chief Justice Kawaley said: “I find that the plaintiff would most likely have been promoted to the rank of sergeant with effect from January 1, 2010, as he himself claims.

Cuba deploys 9,000 troops in effort to ward off Zika virus PRESIDENT Raul Castro called on all Cubans this week to help eradicate the mosquitoes that carry the Zika virus and ordered 9,000 army troops to help stave off the disease. Cuba has yet to detect a case of Zika, but the outbreak is affecting large parts of Latin America and the Caribbean and is likely to spread to all countries in the Americas except for Canada and Chile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said. “It’s necessary for every single Cuban to take up this battle as a personal matter,” Castro wrote in a national message sounding the alarm over Zika, which is carried by mosquitoes that transmit the virus to humans and which is suspected of causing birth defects after infecting pregnant women. Cubans should clean up potential environments for the Aedes genus of mosquitoes, said Castro, who also is general of the armed forces. He ordered 9,000 active-duty officers and reserves plus 200 police officers to join the effort. Military reserves were out on the

Military reserves were out on the streets of Havana’s Cerro district this week, knocking on doors and fumigating homes.

streets of Havana’s Cerro district this week, knocking on doors and fumigating homes. People appeared cooperative as they gathered on corners waiting for the fumes to clear. “We are fighting by using the public health system so the Zika virus does not attack our country,” said Cristina Suarez, a

mechanical engineer and military reservist mobilized for the campaign. The ruling Communist Party and the government have adopted a plan under the direction of the Health Ministry to deal with Zika that will also help combat the mosquito-borne diseases dengue and chikungunya, Castro said.

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Minnis ‘lacks support of white Bahamians’ ATTORNEY Michael Scott said Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis has been unsuccessful in gaining the financial support of white Bahamians because that demographic has little confidence in his ability to lead the organisation or the country. Mr Scott, who several times insisted that he was not racist, added that in his opinion the FNM has also failed to become a successful opposition party under the Killarney MP’s leadership, who he said is not suited to become prime minister. Although Mr Scott said he was not speaking in any way for Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner, the attorney sought to compare the MP to Dr Minnis, saying the FNM needs someone of her calibre to lead it to a victory in the next general election. His comments came while he was a guest on the 96.9 FM radio talk show: The Revolution with host Juan McCartney on Tuesday. Mr Scott added that it was no secret that he supported the former deputy leader and if she were leader, the question would be a matter of how many seats the organisation would win by. As it stands now, he said it is “touch and go” if the FNM can win the next election. Mr Scott, who has served as a legal advisor to the FNM among other positions, also called Dr Minnis’ plan to implement tax-free

The award was a continuation of Barbados’ recent winning streak and marked the seventh international award Barbados has received over the past year. FNM leader Dr. Hubert Minnis does not command respect from white Bahamians according to attorney Michael Scott.

zones in inner city communities “a joke” and “nonsense”, saying it had not been well planned out or wellconceived. “He doesn’t project the confidence,” Mr Scott said while clarifying comments he previously made on another radio talk show. “In my opinion he doesn’t have what it takes to be a successful leader of the FNM. He has not been a successful leader in the opposition and in my view will not be a successful prime minister and therefore he is not a catalyst for money and has not been successful in raising funds from the white Bahamian population. That is the gist of what I had to say and I got painted as a racist for that and that’s stupid.

That’s what it comes down to.” He added: “I don’t support Minnis. I don’t think Minnis can take us into the promise land because the whole point of having political parties is so they can become the government. I think as we are structured at the moment we are poised to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. If we had someone of Loretta’s calibre, it should be a matter of how many seats we’re going to win by. As it is now, it’s touch and go (if we) can win. “I think with Minnis as leader, I don’t see that we are going to win. I am really saddened by that because I do not think this country can take another five years of (Prime Minister Perry) Christie but it’s my judgment on that.”

Dozens injured in shooting and stampede at political rally in Jamaica A SHOOTING followed by a stampede at a mass rally of the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) on Tuesday night has left more than 35 people injured, including two children. Lawmen have indicated that so far there is no evidence to suggest that the gunplay which sparked the panic was politically motivated. The incident occurred shortly after 9 p.m. as the PNP’s campaign director Dr Peter Phillips was introducing party president, Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller. When the gunshots went off, people ran for cover, some of them falling and sustaining injuries. Two people were shot. Dr. Phillips said police were “not too clear as to the reasons for the gun firing and it is not too clear as to who did the gun firing.” When the incident occurred, Simpson Miller refused to leave the stage as her security detail had advised, instead staying on the platform and calling for calm. The injured were taken to the hospital and the meeting resumed. Speaking about what had occurred, Simpson Miller said:

Barbados gets Best Caribbean Destination 2016 award BARBADOS has been voted Caribbean Best Destination 2016 in recognition of outstanding performance and partnership by Expedia, the largest retailer of travel products in the Caribbean. The award, which was presented during the Caribbean Travel Marketplace in The Bahamas, was a continuation of Barbados’ recent winning streak and marked the seventh international award Barbados has received over the past year. The island was also dubbed Best Destination by Caribbean Journal, and ranked third among the islands of the Caribbean by TripAdvisor in 2015. Telegraph readers also voted Barbados the best destination in the Caribbean for family holidays, best Caribbean beach holiday destination, best destination for activity and adventure holidays, and best destination for wedding and

honeymoons. The island has also been shortlisted in the destination category for the Routes Americas 2016 Marketing Awards, according to South Florida Caribbean News. Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) CEO, William Griffith, said the latest award from Expedia was testament to the collaborative efforts local industry partners have been making on behalf of the island. He added that it was a clear manifestation of the significant work being done by the entire BTMI leadership team in the major markets of the UK, USA and Canada. “Each award we have received over the past 12 months has been confirmation for us that we are moving in the right direction with our destination marketing and product development, which continues to be a team effort across the public and private sector,” he said.

Large number of Jamaican voters decides not to vote

More than 35 persons, including two children were injured in the incident. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

“Whoever was the evil that was sent here to do what has happened earlier will recognise that members of the People’s National Party are never afraid of anyone. I am going to find out who did it and it doesn’t matter what constituency they come from, neighbouring or otherwise. I am going to deal with it.” “Some others want our meeting to look like some other meetings, but what they do not understand about PNP people – we are never afraid, we are not afraid of anyone. And I want to thank the police for the way

they have handled the situation, but ask that it be investigated because we are not like the other party. This is a loving, peaceful party . . .” Simpson Miller added. She was chastised for her comments by the main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). JLP leader Andrew Holness described her comments as “distasteful”. Two weeks ago, at the official launch of the JLP’s election campaign, a shooting also occurred in which three people were killed and others injured.

THE independent members of the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) are expressing concern about what they say is the unacceptably large number of enumerated persons who were not expected to vote in Thursday’s General Election. In a statement published in The Gleaner on Wednesday, the ECJ members have urged electors from every strata of society to go out and vote, saying it is good for Jamaica and democracy. The ECJ notes that public opinion polls indicate that close to 50 per cent of the electorate will not vote. It said this is in contrast to the 1970s and 80s when voter turnout peaked in the region of 80 per cent.

The ECJ said that although there has been an increase in voter apathy globally, no one, including the political parties and civil society, should be proud of the current statistics locally. It’s urged the church, civil society groups and professional associations to encourage those on the voters’ list to exercise their franchise. It said the ECJ, the police and other stakeholders will do everything possible to guarantee that electors vote freely and in an orderly manner. The ECJ also stated that it has an adequate number of electionday workers, ballots, ink, ballot boxes and equipment in place to ensure a well-run election. (Jamaica Gleaner)

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Ex-Baha Mar director urges Bahamas government to auction off resort

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is amongst 29 nations in the Americas with reported cases of Zika.

Zika virus now confirmed in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines has joined the list of Caribbean countries where the mosquito-borne Zika virus has been confirmed. Minister of Health Senator Luke Browne made the disclosure in Parliament on Wednesday evening. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad and Tobago confirmed the infection. Browne, who said the confirmation was received on Wednesday, did not provide any details about the individual who had contracted Zika. He said the individual has since fully recovered from the illness. Several Caribbean islands are among 29 in the Americas that have reported cases of Zika, which is suspected to be linked to microcephaly, a rare condition in which a baby’s brain and head are underdeveloped, as well as GuillainBarré syndrome (GBS). GBS is a condition in which the immune

system attacks the nervous system, sometimes resulting in paralysis. Six territories – Brazil, French Polynesia, El Salvador, Venezuela, Colombia and Suriname – have reported an increase in the incidence of cases of microcephaly and/or GBS following a Zika virus outbreak. Microcephaly has so far been reported only from Brazil and French Polynesia. Puerto Rico and Martinique have also reported cases of GBS associated with Zika virus infection, but without evidence of an overall increase in the incidence of GBS. The Pan American Health Organisation says evidence that neurological disorders, including microcephaly and GBS, are linked to Zika virus infection remains circumstantial, but a growing body of clinical and epidemiological data possibly leans towards a causal role for Zika virus. (Caribbean360)

AN ex-Baha Mar director on Tuesday urged the Government “to force” the Chinese to auction the $3.5 billion project off to the highest bidder, adding: ‘Gentle nudging ain’t working.” Dionisio D’Aguilar told Tribune Business that the Bahamian national interest compelled the Christie administration to now “flex its muscles and take on the big bad dragon from the East”, given the stance seemingly adopted by Baha Mar’s $2.45 billion financier. He said the interview given by Sir Sol Kerzner’s partner, Andrew Farkas, over how they were unable to make an informed Baha Mar bid because the China Export-Import Bank was not providing any due diligence information or entering into serious negotiations, showed the property could be sat idle for years. Suggesting that the bank’s desire to recoup 100 per cent of its outlay was impossible, given Baha Mar’s current condition and the attitude of potential buyers, Mr D’Aguilar said the Government had no choice but to intervene more aggressively for the Bahamian economy’s well-being. He expressed concern, though, over whether the Christie administration was so “hooked on Chinese investment” and maintaining a relationship with Beijing that it would seek to avoid a confrontation with the China Export-Import Bank.

“I’m not surprised at all that the bank has basically not responded to them,” Mr D’Aguilar told Tribune Business of Sir Sol and Mr Farkas’s bid, “and won’t engage them. “The bank, in my humble opinion, has no interest in selling this at a loss, and I think the Government has to force the situation. Are they willing to take the next, necessary steps to force the China ExportImport Bank?” Mr D’Aguilar stopped well short of advocating that the Government seek to nationalise the Baha Mar project, given the potential damage such action could have for the Bahamas’ reputation among other international investors. Instead, he called on the Christie administration to force the China Export-Import Bank to conduct an open, transparent sales process for Baha Mar, with all bidders provided with the same information and terms. The project would then be sold to the highest bidder at auction. Based on the evidence provided by Mr Farkas, Mr D’Aguilar added: “The Chinese bank is not willing to budge, is not willing to make a deal, and not interested in entertaining any proposal that does not say it will receive 100 cents on the $1. “We know no one will offer them 100 cents on the $1. It now behooves the Government to move the Export-

Import Bank.” Mr D’Aguilar added that, if it did not, it would be “to the detriment of every Bahamian”, and the Government would “have to get used to the idea that this project will not proceed” to completion and “sit there year after year”. “It’s in the national interests of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas to force the Chinese to make a deal,” he told Tribune Business. “Perry Christie has to realise this could destroy our economy if not dealt with expeditiously, and only he knows what needs to be done. “The Chinese have misled the Government, have caused enormous damage to the economy of the Bahamas, and the credit rating of the country. There’s certainly a case for them to force a sale of the property to get it up and running. “It’s causing untold damage to Bahamian creditors and contractors, and to our debt and credit rating. This is not a small deal; this is not a $150 million project. I’m just hoping that they’re not so hooked on Chinese investment that they fail to act in the best interests of the country,” Mr D’Aguilar added. “The Government appears to be very pro-Farkas and pro-Kerzner, but they’ve thrown up their hands in disgust. If they can’t make a deal, no one can.”

Cayman men walk in women’s shoes UK’s ‘no’ vote may to raise money for domestic violence

impact Bermuda BRITAIN’S future with the European Union — and Bermuda’s with it — is set to go to a referendum this summer. On June 23, voters across the UK will vote on if they wish to remain in the EU. While those who support membership argue that it provides an economic benefit to Britain through easier business dealings and immigration opportunities, opponents believe EU membership imposes too many rules and hinders the UK’s ability to control its borders. While a “no” vote could affect British Overseas Territories citizens’ ability to travel, reside and work in the EU, Governor George Fergusson said any details of any changes would be hashed out after the vote. “The UK Government is committed to continued membership of the EU and is actively campaigning for this in the forthcoming referendum,” the Governor said. “If

Governor George Fergusson says the “UK Government is committed to continued membership of the EU and is actively campaigning for this in the forthcoming referendum”.

the UK were no longer in the EU, any questions which arose about the position of British citizens, including British Overseas Territories citizens, in EU member states would need to be resolved in subsequent negotiations.”

HUNDREDS came out to Camana Bay Thursday evening to support the men of Cayman as they took a brave stand –– in women’s shoes. The event, called Walk In Her Shoes, raised more than $53,000 for the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre, which provides shelter and support to women who have been affected by domestic violence. Participating men wearing all manner of high-heeled women’s shoes –– from sky-high, sequined pumps to more sensible kitten heels –– were tasked with walking up to five laps up and down Market Street in Camana Bay. The men were encouraged to secure sponsorships for each lap, and for every $100 a participant raised, he was allowed to reduce his walk by one lap. “The was the very first Walk In Her Shoes event; so we didn’t know what to expect,” Crisis Centre director Ania Milanowska-Sedgley said. “We were all amazed with how successful this event was, even the public that was standing around and

More than 70 men turned up in women’s shoes for the event.

watching it . . . ; everybody loved it.” One of the event organisers, Michelle Lockwood, who sits on the fund-raising committee for the Crisis Centre, assumed that maybe the event would draw 20 or so participants, and she was blown away when more than 70 men showed up. The highest individual fund-raiser, Matthew Crawford, raised almost $8,000. “It completely overwhelms me how much support that we have and how much the guys want to do this,” Lockwood said. “Our other events are quite popular, but this

one was specifically for men . . . . I think it’s great that the guys had an opportunity to speak out against domestic violence in their own way.” By the end of the event, Lockwood said she had already received several requests that it become an annual fund-raiser. Milanowska-Sedgley said the centre would most likely time the event next year to coincide with International Women’s Day, as she thought it would be a “brilliant” way to get men involved in the day’s celebrations.

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Cameron hails EU flood-aid bid as he pushes `stay’ vote in north PRIME Minister David Cameron highlighted his government’s bid for European Union cash to help floodaffected parts of Britain on Thursday as he sought to bolster support for his campaign to stay in the 28-nation bloc. Speaking to an audience at a BAE Systems Plc factory near Preston, northwest England, Cameron said the aid is an example of the support Europe can provide for Britain. About 16,000 homes in northern England were flooded at the end of last year as the U.K. suffered it wettest December in a century. “We will be applying to the EU solidarity fund which could supply many millions in terms of helping with the work that needs to be done after these disastrous floods,” Cameron said Thursday. “That’s another thing to think about in the balance of what the European Union can do to help the northwest.” Cameron is carrying out a series of town-hall style meetings across the U.K. as he presses the case for Britain to remain in the EU in a referendum to be held on June 23. While he’s concentrating on his core messages of economic security, safety and certainty, the intervention on floods gives an indication of the way he will tailor his message for different parts of the U.K. It’s less than a week since Cameron sealed a deal with fellow

Beijing is seen as the country’s nexus of power where the elite often have close ties with the Chinese Communist Party leadership.

Beijing overtakes New York as new ‘billionaire capital’ David Cameron is carrying out a series of town-hall style meetings across the U.K. as he presses the case for Britain to remain in the EU in a referendum to be held on June 23.

EU leaders aimed at reducing welfare payments for migrants to the U.K. Several leading members of his Conservative Party, including London Mayor Boris Johnson, have rejected the agreement and are campaigning to leave the bloc. Most online polls continue to be inconclusive, with a BMG online survey for London’s Evening Standard newspaper published Thursday showing “Remain” ahead of “Leave” by 44 percent to 41 percent, with 15 percent undecided. Two recent phone surveys, by contrast, have shown double-digit leads for staying in. The prime minister also talked

about the benefits for BAE of different European countries taking the lead in negotiations for arms sales from joint projects, such as the Typhoon Eurofighter, around the world. “With the Typhoon there’s an alliance of countries, so the Italians, the Germans and ourselves, we spend a lot of time trying to work out who’s best placed to try and win these export orders,” Cameron said. “We’ve got hopefully good news coming from Kuwait, and the Italians have been doing a lot of work there, the British have been working hard in Oman, we’ve got more work to do in Saudi Arabia and the Germans have done a lot of work as well.”

Somali president says 200 Kenyans killed in military camp attack AS MANY as 200 soldiers were killed in an attack on a Kenyan military camp in Somalia by al Shabaab Islamists last month, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told a television station, although Kenya rejected the figure. Kenyan authorities have refused to give a death toll following the Jan. 15 raid, which targeted troops working under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) near the southern Somali town of El Adde. Newspaper pictures of coffins draped with Kenyan flags bringing back dead soldiers after the attack increased the disquiet from ordinary Kenyans and the opposition alike over Kenya’s continued presence in Somalia. Al Shabaab later distributed photos purporting to show the bodies of dozens of Kenyan soldiers, many apparently shot in the head. “When about 200 soldiers who came to help your country are killed in one morning, it is not something

Kenyan soldiers were attacked by al Shabaab Islamists.

trivial,” Mohamud told Somali Cable TV, a privately owned station. The interview was posted on YouTube on Thursday. “We have been winning for years and months but that El Adde battle, we were defeated. Yes, in war, sometimes something that you do not like happens to you,” he said. Kenya sent soldiers into Somalia in 2011 after raids in the border region and kidnappings that threatened the tourism industry in the region’s biggest economy and

wider regional destabilisation. It later joined the AMISOM operation. Al Shabaab’s attacks in Kenya have included a raid by gunmen on the upscale Westgate shopping mall in 2013 and a university in Garissa in 2015. Hundreds of people have been killed in al Shabaab attacks in the past two years. Kenya Defence Forces spokesman, Colonel David Obonyo, denied the number given by the Somali president and questioned the source of the information.

BEIJING has overtaken New York as the city with the highest number of billionaires for the first time, a new report by China-based firm Hurun says. A total of 100 billionaires are now living in the Chinese capital, compared with 95 in New York, the report says. Shanghai, China’s centre of commerce, comes in fifth place. Hurun, which tracks wealth in China, has released an annual Global Rich List for the past five years measuring billionaires’ wealth in US dollars. The private research firm, which also publishes luxury magazines, uses a mixture of information from

publicly traded companies plus interviews to compile its data. Other companies such as Forbes and Bloomberg use different methodology and arrive at different conclusions. Hurun found that Beijing had welcomed 32 new billionaires since last year, allowing it to vault past New York which it calculated only saw four new billionaires. Moscow was in third place with 66 billionaires, according to Hurun. Overall, China has overtaken the US as the country with the highest number of billionaires. However, the top 10 billionaires in Hurun’s list is still dominated by Americans.

Obama bans U.S. imports of goods produced by slavery, child labour President Barack Obama signed a bill Wednesday that includes a provision banning U.S. imports of fish caught by slaves in Southeast Asia, gold mined by children in Africa and garments sewn by abused women in Bangladesh, closing a loophole in an 85-year-old tariff law that has failed to keep products of forced and child labor out of America. An expose by The Associated Press last year found Thai companies ship seafood to the U.S. that was caught and processed by trapped and enslaved workers. As a result of the reports, more than 2,000 trapped fishermen have been rescued, more than a dozen alleged traffickers arrested and millions of dollars’ worth of seafood and vessels seized. Until now, U.S. customs law banning imports of items produced by forced or child labor had gone largely unenforced because of two words: “consumptive demand” — if there was not sufficient supply to meet domestic demand, imports were allowed regardless of how they were produced. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) who offered the amendment

President Obama closed a loophole in an 85-year-old tariff law to keep products of forced and child labor out the U.S. on Wednesday.

eliminating that exception, said Wednesday his office is already asking U.S. Customs and Border Protection to ensure they begin enforcing the new rules when the law takes effect in 15 days. “It’s embarrassing that for 85 years, the United States let products made with forced labor into this country, and closing this loophole gives the U.S. an important tool to fight global slavery,” he said. (NYDailynews)

February 27 - March 4, 2016

World News

IMF warns the global economy is “highly vulnerable” THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said the global economy has weakened further and warned it was “highly vulnerable to adverse shocks”. It said the weakening had come “amid increasing financial turbulence and falling asset prices”. The IMF’s report comes before the meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in Shanghai later this week. It said China’s slowdown was adding to global economic growth concerns. China’s economy, the secondbiggest in the world, is growing at the slowest rate in 25 years. “Growth in advanced economies is modest already under the baseline, as low demand in some countries and a broadbased weakening of potential

growth continue to hold back the recovery,” the Washington-based IMF said. “Adding to these headwinds are concerns about the global impact of China’s transition to more balanced growth, along with signs of distress in other large emerging markets, including from falling commodity prices.” The IMF also noted any future prospects for global growth “could be derailed by market turbulence, the oil price crash and geopolitical conflicts”. The agency has called on the G20 group to plan new mechanisms to protect the most vulnerable countries. Earlier this year, the IMF downgraded its forecast for global economic growth. It now expects economic activity to increase 3.4% this year followed by 3.6% in 2017. (BBC)

Trump easily won the Nevada caucuses on Tuesday, giving him his third win in four early nominating contests.

Trump’s surge confounds rivals, makes him betting favourite DONALD Trump’s chances of clinching the U.S. Republican presidential nomination shot to a record high on global betting websites on Wednesday and the billionaire businessman, long viewed as a political outsider, won his first endorsement from a member of Congress. Trump easily won the Nevada caucuses on Tuesday, giving him his third win in four early nominating contests and pressuring Republican rivals to come up with a way to stop a candidate who only last year was not seen as a serious contender for the Nov. 8 presidential election. The real estate magnate swept Nevada by a margin of 22 percentage points, winning 45.9 percent of the vote. It was the high point so far of an

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

unorthodox campaign during which Trump has fought with Pope Francis, called for a temporary ban on Muslims entering the United States and promised to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexican border to prevent illegal immigration. Trump’s Nevada win is likely to further frustrate Republican establishment figures who, less than a month ago, were hoping his campaign as a political outsider was stalled after he lost the opening nominating contest in Iowa to Ted Cruz, a U.S. senator from Texas. In his victory speech in Nevada, the former reality TV show host courted his base of blue-collar workers. “I love the poorly educated,” he said, mentioning several demographic groups among whom he said he was winning.

Syria conflict: US-Russia brokered truce to start at weekend THE US and Russia have announced that a planned cessation of hostilities in Syria will come into effect at midnight on 27 February. Their statement said the truce did not include so-called Islamic State (IS) and the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front. World powers agreed on 12 February that a truce would come into effect within a week, but that deadline passed and scepticism remains over the new plan. On Sunday 140 died in bombings in Homs and Damascus as the violence continued. More than 250,000 Syrians have been killed in the conflict which began in March 2011. Some 11 million others have been forced from their homes, of whom four million have fled abroad - including growing numbers who are making the dangerous journey to Europe. Separately, Syria’s government has called a parliamentary election for 13 April. The last was in 2012 and they are held every four years. The White House said that President Barack Obama had phoned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at Mr Putin’s request to discuss the efforts to establish the cessation of hostilities. After their phone call, the joint

The ceasefire call comes as government forces make gains around Aleppo in the north.

Russian-US statement was released. The truce applied to “those parties to the Syrian conflict that have indicated their commitment to and acceptance of its terms”, the statement said. This excluded IS, Nusra and “other terrorist organisations designated by the UN”. Air strikes by Syria, Russia and the US-led coalition against these groups would continue, the statement read. It said that armed opposition groups taking part would have to confirm their participation by midday on 26 February. Russian and Syrian planes would

halt any attacks on the armed opposition groups. Russia and the US will work together to “delineate territory where groups that have indicated their commitment to and acceptance of the cessation of hostilities are active”. The deal also sets up a communications hotline and calls for a working group to monitor ceasefire violations. Syria’s main opposition grouping, the High Negotiations Committee, said it would accept the truce, but its commitment was conditional on the lifting of sieges, an end to attacks on civilians, the freeing of prisoners and the delivery of aid.

Harvard abolishes ‘master’ in titles in slavery row HARVARD University in the US is going to remove the word “master” from academic titles, after protests from students who claimed the title had echoes of slavery. House masters, in charge of residential halls at the university, will become known as “faculty deans”. Harvard Law School is also deciding whether to change its official seal, because of links to slavery. US campuses have faced a series of protests over allegations of racism. Harvard has not accepted that the use of “master” was a link to slavery, but it has responded to a campaign for a name change. It will mean a change in job title for 24 members of staff - but will not affect other uses of “master”, such as a master’s level degree. Student campaigners are also calling for a change in the official seal of Harvard Law School, with a sit-in being held this week. The seal includes the coat of arms of 18th Century college donor Isaac Royall, who as well as establishing the college’s first professorship in law, was a notoriously brutal slaveholder.

Harvard is going to use the name “faculty dean” instead of “house master”.

A decision on whether to change the seal is expected to be made soon. Disputes about race and identity have affected many US campuses. Last month, Amherst College, in Massachusetts, accepted student demands to drop links with its informal mascot, Jeffery Amherst, an 18th Century general accused of advocating infecting native Americans with smallpox. And there have been sit-ins at Princeton in a bid to rename a school named after Woodrow Wilson,

because of claims the former US president held racist views. The protests by US students are part of a wider international campaign challenging historical titles, statues and emblems. But further demands for “safe space”, where some students have called for the right to study away from attitudes or behaviour they find offensive, have been rejected by university leaders and others who have argued for the importance of protecting free speech.

Entertainment

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February 27 - March 4, 2016

Kesha denied Dr. Luke ‘made sexual advances,’ roofying her in 2011 deposition PEOPLE has obtained 2011 video from a source close to Dr. Luke that shows Kesha, sworn under oath, saying “Dr. Luke never made sexual advances at me.” The 63-second clip features snippets edited together from a June 16, 2011 deposition with Kesha and an October 18, 2011 with her mother, Pebe Sebert. When asked, “Did you ever have an intimate relationship with Gottwald?” Kesha responded: “No.” Later in the clip, she says, “I know that Dr. Luke never made sexual advances at me,” and responds “no” when asked, “Did Dr. Luke ever give you a roofie?” Pieces of the 2011 deposition first came to light when a judge ordered documents be unsealed in 2014, shortly after Kesha, 28, sued Luke, 42, alleging he drugged and raped her and subjected her to a decade of verbal and emotional abuse. Luke continues to vehemently deny the rape and abuse allegations. “I didn’t rape Kesha and I have never had sex with her. Kesha and I were friends for many years and she was like my little sister,” the producer, who’s countersuing for breach of contract and defamation, Tweeted on Monday. He continued, “Kesha has denied

Singer Kesha has sued Dr. Luke for allegedly drugging and raping her and subjecting her to a decade of verbal and emotional abuse.

under oath the horrible allegations now being made against me.” “Luke’s latest legal maneuver comes as no surprise; it’s a desperate Hail Mary and a pathetic attempt to once again blame his victim. He threatened to destroy Kesha’s life and the lives of her family if she didn’t cover up his sexual assaults in a 2011 deposition; Luke is now following through on his threats,” Kesha’s lawyer, Mark Geragos, said in a 2014 statement, reissued to PEOPLE Wednesday, that is

regarding the release of contents of the deposition. Geragos’ statement continues: “Unfortunately protecting abusers out of fear happens all too often with battered women. This case is about Luke’s physical, emotional and psychological abuse of Kesha and her fight to get him out of her life. After being driven to the brink of death and into rehab, she’s no longer going to allow herself to wither away at the hands of her abuser as he tries to blame the victim.”

Grant awarded Fellowship by British Film Institute HUGH Grant has been given a Fellowship by the British Film Institute (BFI) at a black-tie dinner in central London. The Four Weddings and a Funeral star said it was “a lovely surprise and a great honour” to be recognised. Grant, 55, received his accolade at the annual BFI chairman’s dinner on Tuesday at London’s Corinthia Hotel. Recent Fellowship recipients include the director Stephen Frears, with whom Grant recently worked on comic biopic Florence Foster Jenkins. Grant, whose other hit films include Notting Hill and Love Actually, was presented his award by film producer Eric Fellner, cochairman of Working Title. Fellner said Grant was “one of those extraordinary British actors whose effortless performance and on-screen charm has endeared him to generations of audiences worldwide”.

Hugh Grant (right) with BFI chairman Greg Dyke and CEO Amanda Nevill.

“His success has helped British film as a whole carve out a place in the world with a distinct quality that easily rivals the best to come out of Hollywood and other countries,” he continued. Those sentiments were echoed by BFI chairman Greg Dyke,

who praised Grant’s “impeccable comic timing and... unique, ironic, self-deprecating and very British charm”. “Hugh always pulls off the hardest thing of all - a seemingly effortless performance,” he continued. “I can assure you it’s not.

Terry Crews said his wife Rebecca King Crews was instrumental in him getting over his addition.

Terry Crews: Porn addiction ‘messed up my life’ “BROOKLYN Nine-Nine” actor Terry Crews is opening up about his addiction to pornography, which he says “really, really messed up my life.” In a new series of videos posted to Facebook, the former NFL player says he had to go to rehab for his addiction, which consumed him and threatened his marriage. “Some people say, ‘Hey, man ... you can’t really be addicted to pornography.’ But I’m gonna tell you something: If day turns into night and you are still watching, you probably have got a problem. And that was me,” he said. “It changes the way you think about people. People become objects. People become body parts; they become things to be used rather than people to be loved.” Crews said he kept his porn habit secret from everyone, including his wife. He and singer Rebecca King Crews have been married since 1990 and have five children. “It affected everything. My wife was literally like, ‘I don’t know you anymore. I’m out of here.’ I had to change,” said the muscled actor, who added that he quit viewing porn six or seven years ago. “I literally had to go to rehab for it.” Crews revealed his porn addiction publicly in 2014, but his new confessional videos have brought heightened attention to his struggles. His first Facebook video, posted two weeks ago, has attracted almost 3

million views and more than 10,000 comments. Crews posted two more videos thanking fans for their support and trying to answer their questions. “Women, you need to be fearless. You need to confront your man about this problem,” he said in the second clip, recorded while he drove around Los Angeles in a convertible. “You cannot accept any pornography in your life.” In the third video, posted Tuesday, Crews described porn as “an intimacy killer.” “Every time I watched it, I was walled off. It was like another brick that came between me and my wife. And the truth is, everything you need for intimacy is in your (partner).” Rebecca King Crews has not referenced her husband’s addiction in any of her recent social media posts. She posted a photo of her and Crews on Instagram last week with the caption “Love my boo!” Crews, 47, played for six years in the NFL in the 1990s before launching a career as an actor. He has appeared in dozen of movies, including “White Chicks,” “Bridesmaids” and “The Expendables” and its sequels. He also had a recurring role on the TV series “Everybody Hates Chris” and has been featured in several Old Spice commercials. Last year, Crews made headlines when he said he and his wife had completed a 90-day “sex fast” that left them “more in love.” (CNN)

February 27 - March 4, 2016

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Entertainment

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February 27 - March 4, 2016

“Once again, the Oscars have tuned us out,” Rev. Jesse Jackson said in a statement.

Ice Cube won the award of best Black Survivor in a movie for his role in Anaconda (1997).

‘Creed,’ ‘Straight Outta Compton’ Win Big at All Def Movie Awards THE first-ever All Def Movie Awards, held in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, were hosted by Tony Rock (Oscar host Chris Rock’s brother). Fusion will air the awards show on Sunday, Feb. 28 opposite the Oscars. Held just days before the Oscars, the All Def Movie Awards were created by All Def Digital’s Russell Simmons in response to the “stunning lack of diversity” in Hollywood. Beasts of No Nation, Chi-raq, Concussion, Creed, Dope and Straight Outta Compton competed for best picture, with Compton taking home the prize. Despite missing out on best picture, Creed did pick up awards for best actor for Michael B Jordan, and best director for Ryan Coogler. Sanaa

Lathan picked up best actress for The Perfect Guy. Will Smith received the Lifetime Achievement Award and Norman Lear the Vanguard Award. Other awards handed out were for “best bad muh f--ka” and the fanvoted “most quoted movie.” Full list of All Def Movie Awards Winners:

Best Picture Straight Outta Compton Accepted by Ice Cube and O’Shea Jackson Jr. Best Actress Sanaa Lathan - The Perfect Guy Best Actor Michael B. Jordan - Creed Best Director Ryan Coogler - Creed Lifetime Achievement Award

Will Smith Presented by Tyrese Gibson Vanguard Award Norman Lear Presented by Jerrod Carmichael Best Helpful White Person Christoph Waltz (Accepted by Robin Thicke, who accepted “on behalf of all White People”) Best Bad Muh Fu$&a Award Denzel Washington Most Quoted Movie Friday Presented to Ice Cube Best Black Survivor in a Movie Ice Cube as Danny Rich in Anaconda presented by Gary Owen Most Likely to Steal Your Girl Award Amber Rose (Hollywood Reporter)

Rev. Jackson calls for boycott of Academy Awards REV. Jesse Jackson is calling for a boycott of the Academy Awards Sunday, comparing Hollywood to apartheid-era South Africa. Several African-Americans involved in the film industry, including director Spike Lee and actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, have announced they won’t attend the ceremony. The Oscars have been criticised for nominating an allwhite slate in the four acting categories for the second year in a row. “Once again, the Oscars have tuned us out,” Jackson said in a statement. “We should reciprocate Sunday night by boycotting the broadcast, which amounts to a celebration of exclusion, narrow-mindedness and cultural distortion.” Back in 1996, Jackson said, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition called for the film industry to hire more minorities for jobs in

front of the camera and behind the scenes. But he said little has changed. “This disgraceful, man-made drought is nothing new,” Jackson said. “In Hollywood, there has been no climate change.” The Academy, which has been criticized for the lack of diversity among its governing body as well as the nominees, has promised changes. “This is a difficult but important conversation, and it’s time for big changes,” Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences President Cheryl Boone Isaacs said in a statement released last month. “The Academy is taking dramatic steps to alter the makeup of our membership. In the coming days and weeks we will conduct a review of our membership recruitment in order to bring about much-needed diversity in our 2016 class and beyond.”

New GoT posters hints at the return of multiple dead characters

“Game of Thrones” is teasing all its fans to death with its latest posters for the next season featuring its major characters in the “Hall of Face.”

“GAME of Thrones” is set to return in April and it is doing a really good job with driving its fans crazy with teasers for the sixth season. On Wednesday, the HBO series released a set of new posters for its sixth season in line with the Hall of Faces teaser trailer released Feb. 14. Everyone can now get a better look at whose faces were displayed in “The House of Black and White.” The cast and crew are all so tightlipped about season 6 and with no “Winds of Winter” from George R.R. Martin to give fans a clue about what will go down in Westeros, it is anyone’s guess if the faces of the still living

characters displayed among the faces of the dead holds a clue on who will be next or it is just the ultimate tease. Two new posters see the return of the elder Starks, Eddard, Catelyn and Robb, who suffered in the hands of the Lannisters; Prince Oberyn Martell whose death sentence was served by the Mountain, Gregor Clegane; Joffrey Baratheon who is probably the leastmissed character; and Jon Snow whose fate remains uncertain – or whose death fans are still in denial over. Among the living whose fates are all uncertain, thanks to another teaser the production team released on Twitter in exchange for pledge

of allegiances, are Sansa and Arya Stark; Cersei, Jaime and Tyrion Lannister; and Daenerys Targaryen. A separate album was created in the “Game of Thrones” Facebook page for single “head shots” of the faces in the poster, as well as the faces of Melisandre, Tormund Giantsbane, Robert Baratheon, Nymeria Sand and Daario Naharis. Then again, it has been confirmed that “Game of Thrones” will be taking the route of flashbacks and forecasts in season 6 as Bran’s training with the three-eyed Raven progresses so, really, anyone and everyone can return or die at any time. (TechTimes)

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Entertainment

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Brit Awards 2016: Adele dominates with four awards ADELE is Queen of the Brits, winning four prizes including best British female solo artist and best album. “To come back after so long away and be so warmly received means so much,” she said. The star, who closed the show by performing When We Were Young, also received best British single and the Global Success award. The show also featured an emotional tribute to David Bowie, led by Annie Lennox and his friend Gary Oldman. Lennox called Bowie, who died of cancer last month, “a quintessential visionary” and “the ultimate iconoclast.” Oldman then accepted a Brits icon award on behalf of the singer and his family.

“David you were mortal, but your potential was superhuman,” he said, “and your music lives on”. Bowie’s band then performed a medley of his hits, before New Zealand singer Lorde joined them to sing Life On Mars. The tribute won positive reviews from fans and critics. Bowie’s film director son Duncan Jones also approved. The ceremony was opened by Coldplay, who gave a colourful, floral performance of their single Hymn For The Weekend, showering the audience with confetti petals as they played on one of two separate stages at London’s O2 arena. They went on to win best British group - making them the most successful band in the ceremony’s history.

Adele won three of her four nominations and added a global success award.

Chris Martin and co now have nine trophies to their name, although the figure pales in comparison to Robbie Williams’ 17 awards (12 as a solo artist and five with Take That). Other awards went to James Bay, for best male, and Australian psychrock band Tame Impala, who picked up best international group.

Canadian singer Justin Bieber, who performed his chart topping singles Love Yourself and Sorry, won best international male. “Man, I’m shaking right now,” he said as he took the stage, thanking his fans for their support after a couple of years where he appeared to go off the rails.

“Life is a journey,” he said. “Everyone has their ups and downs.” One Direction, who are officially on hiatus, also picked up best video for the space-themed Drag Me Down. “We’ve been away for a little while, so it’s been a bit like getting back on a bike tonight,” said singer Liam Payne.

Entertainment

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February 27 - March 4, 2016

BBC abuse reports: Staff ‘knew of Savile and Hall complaints’ BBC staff knew of complaints against DJ Jimmy Savile, but senior management were not told because of a culture of fear that still exists, a report says. The Dame Janet Smith review into sexual abuse by Savile identified 72 victims, including eight who were raped. The report also says there were 21 victims of ex-broadcaster Stuart Hall and BBC management in Manchester were aware of his conduct. BBC Trust chairman Rona Fairhead said the corporation “failed” the victims. “It turned a blind eye, where it should have shone a light. And it did not protect those who put their trust in it,” she said of Savile and Hall, who was jailed in 2013 after admitting indecently assaulting 13 girls. Dame Janet said Savile, who died in 2011, and Hall were “serial sexual predators” and the BBC missed five opportunities to stop their misconduct. The inquiry cost £6.5m and its report is 1,000 pages and three volumes long. Meanwhile, BBC DJ Tony Blackburn says he has been sacked after disputing evidence and Tony Hall, director general of the BBC, confirmed they had “parted company”. The Radio 2 DJ says he was cleared of any wrongdoing and was never interviewed over a claim he was among celebrities who abused a 15-year-old girl. However, he claims

Thomas Knight Slater (inset) is suing his son for $20M.

Former television personality DJ Jimmy Savile was a serial sexual predator.

the BBC says he was questioned. Tony Hall, director general of the BBC, apologised to the victims and said: “The BBC failed you when it should have protected you.” “A serial rapist and a predatory sexual abuser both hid in plain sight at the BBC for decades,” he said. “What this terrible episode teaches us is that fame is power, a very strong form of power and like any form of power it must be held to account... and it wasn’t,” he said. The impartial investigation by Dame Janet, a former High Court judge, was set up by the BBC in 2012 to look at the corporation’s culture and practices during the years it employed Savile - thought to be from 1964 to 2007. Referring to Savile and Hall, Dame Janet said: “Both of these men used their fame and positions as BBC celebrities to abuse the vulnerable.

“They must be condemned for their monstrous behaviour.” Dame Janet said there was a “culture of separation, competition and even hostility between different parts of the BBC, so that concerns arising in one part would not be discussed with others”. “Staff were reluctant to speak out to their managers because they felt it was not their place to do so,” she said. She said celebrities were “treated with kid gloves and were virtually untouchable”. In his lifetime, millions knew Jimmy Savile as an eccentric TV personality. He was one of Britain’s biggest stars, a larger-than-life character who was known for tea time TV favourites such as Top of the Pops and Jim’ll Fix It, as well as stints on BBC Radio 1.

Slater sued for allegedly ruining his dad’s acting career CHRISTIAN Slater caused some damage to his dad, according to a new lawsuit. The “Heathers” and “Mr. Robot” star was named in a $20 million defamation lawsuit filed Wednesday in Los Angeles by his father Thomas Knight Slater. The elder Slater, known by his stage name Michael Hawkins, claims in his filing that his exwife and famous son destroyed his acting career with public claims he suffers from manic-depressive schizophrenia. He said the duo “intentionally maligned and defamed him, and caused him to be blacklisted in the

show business community.” Hawkins, 80, was born in New York and originated the role of Frank Ryan on the ABC soap opera “Ryan’s Hope” in 1976. His last film appearance was a small part in “Midnight Run” in 1988, when he acted under the name Michael Gainsborough. “Neither of the defendants has a medical credential, or the ability to diagnose manic-depressive schizophrenia, and even if that were the case, they would be bound not to disclose it to the general public,” Hawkins wrote in the complaint that he personally prepared and signed without a lawyer.

Paul Daniels ‘diagnosed with incurable brain tumour’ MAGICIAN and entertainer Paul Daniels, 77, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, his family has said. A statement from his publicist said the entertainer had been diagnosed with “an incurable brain tumour”, and thanked wellwishers for their support. Middlesbrough-born Daniels, whose career has spanned nearly four decades, found fame in the 1980s with his BBC TV series The Paul Daniels Magic Show. His wife, Debbie McGee, tweeted: “With great sadness.” Mark Linsey, acting director of BBC Television, said: “We’re sorry to hear this sad news and our thoughts are with Paul and his family.” Daniels, whose real name is Newton Edward Daniels, developed his magic skills in working men’s clubs. He made his TV debut on talent series Opportunity Knocks in 1970, and came second.

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird immortalised her name in classic American literature.

Paul Daniels was a Saturday night staple for BBC viewers throughout the 1980s.

He was then given a regular slot on ITV variety show The Wheeltappers And Shunters Social Club, hosted by the late comedian Bernard Manning. He made the move to the BBC in 1979 and launched The Paul Daniels Magic Show, which ran for 15 years. He became one of the biggest stars on British TV, becoming known for a

string of catchphrases, including the line: “You’ll like this... not a lot, but you’ll like it.” He said he had first used the line at a club in Yorkshire as a way of dealing with a heckler. Daniels and his wife, a fellow performer and his on-stage assistant, married in 1988. (BBC)

Harper Lee, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ author, dead at 89 HARPER Lee, whose debut novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” immortalised her name with its story of justice and race in a small Southern town and became a classic of American literature, has died. She was 89. Her death was confirmed Friday by the City Hall in Monroeville, Alabama, where she lived. In a statement, Lee’s family said,

“The family of Nelle Harper Lee, of Monroeville, Alabama, announced today, with great sadness, that Ms. Lee passed away in her sleep early this morning. Her passing was unexpected. She remained in good basic health until her passing. The family is in mourning and there will be a private funeral service in the upcoming days, as she had requested.”

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JOB LISTINGS SERVICES AUTO SALES REAL ESTATE

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 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

MARIUS VOLTUR

PHOTOGRAPHER DOMESTIC is looking for a

MARINE

MECHANIC CONTACT: 649-946-4727

12045

To work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour

LONG BAY EXPRESS

KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY

DUTIES INCLUDE: • Weddings • Portraits • Real estate • Underwater Video Production • Office work and editing • Client sales

WORKER

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 231-4161 or email: nsj40@hotmail.com

CRACKPOT RESTAURANT

12051

PROVO SEAFOOD LTD.

DELICIOUS DISHES

CLASSIFIEDS 29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

REQUIREMENTS AS FOLLOWS: • College Degree

Belonger only need apply Pleases send your CV’s to: info@Kaieri.com

Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services on behalf of their clients: ER CONSTRUCTION LTD is seeking employment for the following:

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER

PUMP ATTENDANT

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

Is looking for a

HELPER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

12035

12064

12036

CONTACT: CONTACT: CONTACT: 331-0720 941-8111 941-7648

• 5 years experience in photography • Competent in photoshop/ lightroom • Video and edition • Competent underwater photographer • Dive master and up certified • Work long hours and weekends

ESTEL PLUMBING LTD. Is seeking employment for the following:

1) ELECTRICIAN

Starting salary is $1,500.00 per month. Interested candidate may send their application through ricardofulford@gmail.com regarding employment or contact employer at 333-1199.

1) LABOURER

Starting salary is $6.50 per hours. Interested candidate may send their application through ricardofulford@gmail.com regarding employment or contact employer at 241-0397.

Ricardo Fulford - Immigration and Labour Consultant President of Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services ricardofulford@gmail.com | (649) 346-1125

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

MARGARITAVILLE

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

SEEKS TO IDENTIFY:

Maintenance Supervisor et al. This self motivated individual must be an all rounder, with certification and at least 2 years experience in the field. Skills in plumbing and carpentry would be an asset. Salary will be based on experience.

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR • • • • •

Minimum 15 yrs experience in Commercial Laundry industry. Minimum 6 yrs Laundry Production Management experience. Minimum 3 yrs Customer Rep or Sales experience. Must have 2 yrs experience operating Continuous Batch Washer. Able to operate and provide basic maintenance for all equipment, track parts inventory, order parts online for Jensen, Lavatec, Chicago, Uni-Mac, Cissell, Ipso & more. • Responsible to manage all production and staff, scheduling, client communication & orders, set standards. • Available to manage different work shifts as required, including nights. • Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. • Must have exceptional computer skills, manage all Linen specific programs (Laundry Trak & Linen Master) and create spreadsheets. • Must be fluent in English.

REQUIREMENTS:

- - - - -

Must be able to install, service, repair and maintain gas & electrical equipment Manage water treatment, sewage treatment and life fire safety systems Be able inspect and evaluate equipment and facility to determine work required. Able to work flexible hours including, weekends, night shift and public holidays Able to keep accurate logs of repairs and maintenance activities carried out & to be completed.

Other available positions are Chef, Bartenders, Servers, Cost Control Clerk, Retail Captain, Retail Associate, Store Clerk, Dining Room Captain, Cook, Stilt Walker and Kitchen Helpers.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Application along with curriculum vitae must be submitted by 21st March, 2016 to the office of:

Margaritaville Grand Turk,Grand Turk Cruise Center South Base, White Sands Beach, Grand Turk, T.C.I., B.W.I 12041

Qualified applicants should email CV to info@ pioneertci.com or deliver to Pioneer office. Please fax/deliver copy to TCI Labour Office: 649-946-4164

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Certification in Industrial Electronics (at least at level 2) and 2 years experience

While we welcome and appreciate all applicants, only persons short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

12039

February 27 - March 4, 2016

30 CLASSIFIEDS

JOB OPPORTUNITY

SENIOR SOLICITOR

ROBERT’S AGENCY

SUNNY FOOD Is looking for a

Is looking for the following positions:

Please send applications in writing with full CV to the Managing Partner, Miller Simons O’Sullivan, P. O. Box 260, Regent House West, Regent Village, Providenciales or email to mslaw@tciway.tc. Deadline for applications is 4 March 2016. 12027

MISS B’S RESTAURANT NORTH CAICOS

Is looking for a

CASHIER LABOURER LABOURER TILE LAYER CARPENTER

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

Salary $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: CONTACT: 941-8112 343-0572

12017

addition, the successful candidate must have experience drafting and advising on commercial contracts. Excellent communication skills and ability to manage files and work independently is essential, together with requisite experience in preparation of cases to instruct counsel and direct client relationships. Experience in mediation /A.D.R will be a considerable advantage.

12012

A senior solicitor is required for a busy firm based in Providenciales. The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor with at least ten years (minimum) post qualified experience primarily in litigation disciplines— commercial, corporate, construction, contentious probate, negligence, property, partnership and shareholder disputes and related matters. In

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

RICHMOND HILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 241-3939 OR 347-5926

I.J. VARIETY STORE

Is looking for the following persons:

A TRAINED PRIMARY SCHOOL

Please submit resume via fax to Prestigious Properties ltd. at 649-946-4703 or email to accounting@prestigiousproperties.com

• • • •

12018

• Previous experience dealing with resort developers, construction contractors, sales and marketing personnel and the various purchase and strata documents associated with condominium, time share and fractional ownership developments is mandatory. • Must be able to work closely with client attorneys, marketers and financiers. • Familiarization with Turks and Caicos Land Ordinance, Strata Titles Ordinance, Timeshare Ordinance and Fractional Ownership Ordinance is required. • Computer literate with strong written, organizational, analytical and verbal communication skills • Must possess computer, driver’s license and vehicle for site travel and property showings

TILE LAYER

Must have at least 3 years experience and be able to work with little or no supervision Effective communication skills both internally and externally Must be willing to work outdoors with irregular hours, may include weekends and holidays Starting salary is $7.00 per hour

SUPERVISOR • • • • •

Minimum of 5 years experience with knowledge on plants/ chemicals and fertilizer sprays Must be able to work with minimum supervisions Must be knowledgeable in propagation and greenhouse climate Must be willing to work outdoors with irregular hours, may include weekends, and holidays Starting salary $8.00 per hour

Please bring all applications to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email: admin@environmentalarts. tc successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview. Please provide relevant reference from previous employer 12008

FLORIST

REQUIRMENTS:

• Minimum 2 years experience as a florist with relevant certification • Knowledge of different flowers, foliage and potted plants (names, seasonal availability, lifespan) • Up-to-date on current fashions and styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for wedding, funerals etc. • Willing to work outdoors and irregular hours • 2 years customer facing experience in retail using POS Systems • English speaking • Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public • Starting salary $2,000 per month. Please bring all applications to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email: natalie@environmentalarts.tc successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview. 12009

TEACHER

Is looking for a

With a minimum of ten years teaching experience

A JANITRESS to clean the school after school each day

Please apply in writing to: richhillprep@yahoo.com

ALLIED MECHANICALS LIMITED

MAYALICE FORBES

Seeks Experienced

Is looking for a

MILLWRIGHT/ CLEANER/ MACHINIST DOMESTIC Minimum 12 years experience working unsupervised. Clean drivers licence

Please email qualifications to: tropicdiamond@hotmail.com

WORKER

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

SALES CLERK To work 5 days per week salary $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 332-9257

12032

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

SAMUEL WILSON

Is looking for a

LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: CONTACT: 332-5029 342-2511

12024

SALES ASSOCIATES / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE

12011

Prestigious Properties is seeking to recruit a self-motivated Real Estate

EXPLORER VENTURES LTD. A live-aboard diving concern operating out of Providenciales, requires an

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Who speaks/writes English fluently. However, the ability to speak other languages would be a plus. Strong customer service background is required. Duties include liaising with NHIP, NIB, DEMA, and any other necessary government agencies; facilitating the process of applications for work permits for the company’s employees; managing the boat’s

supply of food, equipment and other materials, providing the necessary assistance to the company’s arriving and departing customers. The successful applicant will also be required from time to time to spend time on the boat, which is out of port for 6 consecutive nights at a time. Therefore, (s)he must possess a basic knowledge of boating and diving equipment.

Interested persons are asked to apply by email to Diana Heaton, at diana@explorerventures.com

12019

February 27 - March 4, 2016 IDEAL PETROLEUM

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

HOUSEMAN Required for inside and outside cleaning duties: some heavy lifting

Is looking for a

LABOURER

Hours will vary depending on occupancy levels evening and weekend shifts will be part of the schedule applicants must be able to speak, read and write English to a level that will enable communication with guests police clearance required for all applicants.

PUMP ATTENDANT To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

SALARY $6.00 PER HOUR EMAIL TO ALLIEDMANAGEMENT@USA.NET OR 946-5866 12050

12019

CONTACT: 946-5663 MAGIC SCISSORS & PRESSING

CLASSIFIEDS 31

APPLICATIONS ARE INVITED FROM SUITABLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITION:

SUPERVISOR OF ENTERTAINMENT Applicant must have a minimum of a 2:1 / upper second university degree and at least ten years’ experience of working within the entertainment industry, including, but not limited to, project management, business affairs, event management, media communications, and managing budgets. Salary: Commensurate with Experience Closing date for applicants: 9th March 2016.

PLEASE EMAIL YOUR CV AND COVERING LETTING TO: CLAIRE@TRADEWINDSRADIO.COM

CHRISCHELLE BOBB

COX SERVICES LTD

OF NORTH CAICOS

Is seeking a

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

LABOURER

BABYSITTER/ DOMESTIC WORKER

TELEPHONE: 231-6710

CONTACT: 649-342-6572

12015

CONTACT: 342-5450

Leeward Highway Providenciales

12065

To work 5 days per week salary $200 per week.

12006

BCS/CSCS PLUS & FNMCS Acting on behalf of our client: Grace Bay Car Rental is looking for the following positions:

SALES SUPERVISOR

• Chart of Accounts/ Payroll Items/ Item List

Duties include: • Rental sales agent • Petty cash accounts • Data entry • Bank deposits • Bank account reconciliations • Corporate credit card • Employee payroll • Accounts Receivable • Accounts Payable • Payroll liabilities

MECHANIC

• Must have 15 years experience

CAR WASHERS RENTAL AGENTS

• Must have a valid TCI License • Must have 5 years experience

EMAIL: BRANITZ@YAHOO.COM

12037

BRYANT’S AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION Is seeking to employ:

SIX A/C TECHNICIANS

Must have Knowledge of Mitsubishi A/c equipment (VRF systems, City Multi systems) & Air cool & water cool chiller systems. Capable of repairing other major brands of equipment.

A/C INSTALLER

Must have knowledge of AC Installation and Maintenance.

DUCT FABRICATOR/ INSTALLER

Must be able to design, fabricate and install ductboard. Applicants must have a minimum of seven years experience. Must be able to understand, speak & write English. All Applicants Must have a valid driver’s license Salary based on experience.

PLEASE FAX OR EMAIL RESUME TO FAX: 946-4283 EMAIL: ADMINBAC@TCIWAY.TC SUITABLE APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED FOR AN INTERVIEW.

A DYNAMIC MOBILE SERVICE PROVIDER SEEKS TO RECRUIT FOR THE FOLLOWING POST:

CORE ENGINEER PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE JOB: • Manage the overall operation of the Network Switching, IP Transmission and RF, ensuring a high quality of service for the Digicel network. • Oversee capacity planning for the various nodes within the Digicel network. • Oversee budget spend for the various nodes operation of above responsibilities. • Good knowledge of AXE for GSM/RNC/BSC/HLR/SCP/SDP/CCN/I-Gate/MSC-S/ SGSN/MPBN. • Good knowledge of GSM, EDGE, HSPA, voice and DATA roaming • Good knowledge of Charging system and VAS platforms. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Manage all Network Core Elements (MSC-S, BSC, HLR, & VSAT, SGSN, MBPN, MGW and Power Plant) • Plan and design mobile and ICT network. • Perform dimensioning and capacity planning • Perform all required software and hardware upgrades for above mentioned systems and services • Provide on-call support for after hour outages & planned works, including creation and submission of required forms. • Develop and schedule preventative and corrective maintenance policies and procedures, such as regular backups, hardware/software upgrades, and spares inventory, to ensure high availability of all IP based systems. • Provide proactive support of WAN data and voice links (VSAT, leased lines) to provide 100% availability of all IP services, including VoIP, PRI, ITP (SS7 over IP) and internet, and to ensure continued connectivity to other Digicel locations and external parties • Ensure that network metrics are closely monitored and captured so as to provide proactive network management, as well as regular feedback on network performance in the form of reports to management • Provide Support to other departments and external parties as required • Provide support for VAS system ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR JOB: • Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunication/electronics or equivalent field • 1-5 years’ experience in the Telecommunication industry. • Training in AXE technology.

Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

32 CLASSIFIEDS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FRESH FISH

AT CHESHIRE HALL AND COCKBURN TOWN MEDICAL CENTERS

Tenders are invited for the above contract. Full information, including tender documents, are available from the reception Desk at Cheshire Hall Medical Center and Cockburn Town Medical Centre under reference number SEC0012 Enquiries can be made to Mr. Donald Wilson at Cheshire Hall Medical Center on (649 941 2800) or email DWilson@interhealthcanada.tc Tenders will close at 5pm on Monday 11th April 2016 Tenders must be delivered to the reception desk at either Cheshire Hall MedicalCentre or Cockburn Town Medical centre in Sealed Envelope FOA, Mr. Martin Dawtry General Manager ICS&SCO no later than 5pm 11th March 2016

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

SKILLED WORKERS

BEAUTICIANS SALON HELPER

SEAMSTRESS TAILOR

For the processing of fish must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-5678

Salary $6.25 per hour CONTACT: 231-3482

Must have at least 5 years experience. Salary based on commission.

CONTACT: 649-232-7280 12034

PUBLIC NOTICE BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance)

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 MARIE IRMA ARTHUR by virtue of marriage to a Belonger.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the post of

Executive Assistant / Personal Assistant to work out of the Head Office in Providenciales.

PETER BECKINGHAM

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

The successful applicant will be required to assist the Chief Executive Officer and

EXECUTIVE TEAM:

• In the preparation of appropriate, timely and accurate Reports on a monthly basis or when requested; • Keep filing update • In preparation of the annual publications • Schedule and arrange all meetings • Managing the reports • Other office Administrations duties as outlined by CEO • To assist with Board of Directors duties • Arrangement of Executive staff travel and conferences

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Diploma in Office Administration or equivalent qualification, plus five year qualification experience in an office Administration position.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Preference will be given to candidates with skills in the following areas; • 5 years or more experience in office administration • 5 years or more experience in internal and external department management • A working knowledge of TCIG processes /Administration • A working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

Salary Commensurate with qualifications in the range of $36,000 - $42,000 per annum Detailed Job Descriptions are available from the Main Office of the TCIAA at Providenciales International Airport via email from johntsmith@tciairports.com Interested persons must submit their Applications before 4th March 2016 to: John T. Smith, Chief Executive Officer Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority Providenciales International Airport,Turks and Caicos Islands Email: johntsmith@tciairports.com

Is looking for the following

12035

SECURITY SERVICES

Is looking for

SASSI DAVIS

SEWING CLOTHING DESIGN

Is looking for the following:

12019

BEST LOCAL FOOD ON GRACE BAY! Royal West Indies Resort Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Island Tele: 649-431-1689

RESTAURANT MANAGER ;;The successful applicant should posses a minimum of 10 years experience in the field including ;;Applicant must be able to host and execute banquets up to 150 ;;Responsible for the selection of wines as costing and menu print ;;Use of micros POS system, Applicant should be able to both operate and program the POS. ;;Extensive experience and knowledge of wines and wine service is crucial ;;Achieves restaurant operational objectives by contributing information and recommendations to strategic plans and reviews ;;Meets restaurant financial objectives by forecasting requirements; preparing an annual budget; scheduling expenditures; analyzing variances; initiating corrective actions. ;;Plans menus by consulting with chefs; estimates food costs and profits; adjusts menus.

SMITH ELECTRICAL

NEPTUNE VILLAS

DOMESTIC WORKER WANTED

seeks the following person:

1 DECKHAND

Is looking for a

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

12029

12030

CONTACT: CONTACT: 332-3914 946-5306 Is looking for

2 ELEVATOR TECHNICIANS

CALASCO

12031

Must be willing to work 7 days per week. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience. Salary $20.00 per hour

CONTACT: 441-7041

CHRISTINA WRIGHT

MECHANIC To work 6 days per week salary $12.00 per hour

I RAMOO, Indian Passport #K2864302 residing at #6 Coconut Ridge, Plantation Hills, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands want to add my surname KOORI, to my name in my Indian Passport. I request to be known as RAMOO KORE.

DOMESTIC WORKER

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

12026

CONTACT: 231-0360

Must have 5 years experience

DOMESTIC WORKER

Is looking for a

ACRES OF DIAMONDS PROVIDENCIALES

Positions:

TRUCK DRIVER

COSMETOLOGIST LABOURER To work 6 days

per week salary $6.25 per hour

Salary $6.25 per hour

HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD.

CAICOS TELEVISION NETWORK

Is seeking to employ an

LABOURER To work 5 days per week salary $100.00 per week

12013

11940

12009

Salary $6.25 per hour Monday to Friday

TIRE MAN / LABOURER

CONTACT: CONTACT: CONTACT: 332-5029 242-5425 231-6926

AG CONSTRUCTION

Requires

1 DOMESTIC WORKER

IRIS WILLIAMS

GARDENER

CONTACT: CONTACT: CONTACT: 231-1489 346-3873 344-8396 WESLEY METHODIST SCHOOL

FREDERICK DAVID KING

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

Is looking for a

241-5016 OR

NOTICE

TCI ELEVATOR

5 years experience with gasoline and diesel engines Must have a degree

CONTACT: Salary $6.25 per hour 941- 5707/ CONTACT: 941- 8176 432-4440

CONTACT: 231-7242

MECHANIC

11997

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

Must be willing to live on barge Basic salary

To work 6 days per week salary $250 per week

Is looking to fill the following positions:

12010

LABOURER LABOURER

EXPRESS TIRE & AUTO PARTS LTD.

LEW 1 SHIPPING

12033

Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

12025

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Is looking for a

PAINTER

To work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 941-8112

ASPHALT HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Project include major airport runways, taxiways and aprons, major retail parking lots, street and road construction, demolition and grading, asphalt paving and pavement markings.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Control and guide machines to lay asphalt Fill tanks or hoppers with paving materials Spread stone, concrete or asphalt on roadbeds Smooth out stone or concrete using special attachments Ensure all machines are well oiled, serviced and inspected Coordinate materials at job site Shovel and remove blacktop Operate tamping machines or manually roll surfaces to compact earth fills, foundation forms, and finished road materials, according to grade specifications Operate other machines such as loaders, dump trucks and distributor trucks Push dump trucks to maintain flow of asphalt into hoppers Drive or attach machines onto tractor trailers Install dies or cutter to screeds Break up pavement with machines using hammers Light burners on machines and regulate screed temperatures Ensure uniform thickness of mat in accordance with job specs Operate other construction equipment Assist foreman in various construction activities

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Work well as part of a team

SKILLS:

• Based on experience

• Minimum 3 years asphalt crew experience • Must have own vehicle to travel to work • Able to recognize drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina

COMPENSATION: POSITION TYPE:

• Full-time

Please submit applications to main office at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI 12023

34 CLASSIFIEDS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. Is seeking to employ an

POSITION AVAILABLE:

PATROL DOG HANDLER/TRAINER/SECURITY SUPERVISOR Wage / Salary: $15.00/hr. + plus lodging depending upon training, experience, work record and capability

ASPHALT SUPERINTENDENT With the knowledge of managing commercial grading and paving crews. Project include major airport runways, taxiways and aprons, major retail parking lots, street and road construction, demolition and grading, asphalt paving and pavement markings.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• • • •

NOTE: Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis and work nights, as required.

• • • •

Must be comfortable working with and training Police Dogs. At least 5 years prior experience as patrol dog handler, trainer and security worker essential. Must have training in martial arts/self-defense and be physically fit and capable of controlling and restraining a large, powerful dog. Must provide satisfactory proof of clean police record. Training in general First Aid. Fluency in English required.

DUTIES:

Include security patrols with police dogs; response to security problems as needed; Feeding and caring for dogs; exercising and training dogs: Scheduling, supervising and providing additional training to other security personnel; Supervising and training fire control response team. First responder for medical emergencies. Starting Date: May 2016

POSITION AVAILABLE:

Massage Therapist/Spa Technician

Ability to perform asphalt paving in accordance with TCI specifications Ability to read plans and specifications (application rates, grades, slope, drainage, etc.) Proven track record of completing jobs under budget and on-time Ability to manage all aspects of the operation including ordering of materials, logistics, maintenance and outside services • Coordination between other crews, subs and vendors

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum 5 years asphalt superintendent experience Minimum 5 years of paving experience Clean police record Valid driver’s license

SKILLS:

• • • • • • • • •

Knowledge of the local customers, materials and specifications is strongly preferred Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills Proven record of being a self-starter and able to work under limited supervision Able to recognize drainage issues Good physical strength Good physical stamina Good manual dexterity Great attention to detail Work well as a team leader

COMPENSATION:

• Based on experience

at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay.

POSITION TYPE:

Salary: Remuneration based on commission + accommodation on Pine Cay.

• Full-time

DUTIES:

To provide massage treatments to guests (Swedish, Swedish Deep Tissue, reiki, visceral manipulation, hot stone massage) as well esthetics, waxing, pedicure and manicures.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

- Successful candidate will have completed a minimum of 1200 hour massage therapy program and have a minimum of 5 years’ experience at 4-5 star operations. - Must possess some culinary skills - Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis. - Must have pleasant personality, clean and neat personal appearance and enjoy working with people. - Must be able to speak and read English. - Must be able to work flexible hours. Starting Date: June 2016

POSITION AVAILABLE:

HOUSEKEEPER

at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay. Wage/Salary: $6.25/hr +. depending upon training, experience, work record and capability. Room, board and necessary boat transportation to and from Pine Cay included.

Please submit applications to main office at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI 12022

FLAMINGO PHARMACY Senior Pharmacist - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in pharmacy from recognised university. - Eligible to register with the TCI Health Practitioners Board and MPS. - At least 10 years post qualification experience. - Proven ability to manage a busy community pharmacy including a team of 10 people. - Excellent IT skills including use of POS and Kroll. - Willing to work long shifts including weekends and holidays. - Salary commensurate with experience ranging $70-75K plus performance related bonus.

Sales Associate

DUTIES:

include cleaning guest rooms and public areas; laundry; cleaning private residences

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

- Must be able to multi task and work in a fast paced environment. - Must have a CXC passes in math and English along with excellent IT skills. - Must be physically fit and able to lift stock boxes. - Must have clean driving license and 2 years driving experience. - $7.50-$10 per hour.

- Must be able to communicate in English - Must be in good health and able to lift bundles of up to 30#. - Must be skilled in handling all duties specified above. - Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay. - Must be willing to work holidays and weekends. - Must be neat, tidy, have attention for detail Starting Date: May 2016

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Qualified applicants should contact: Debbie, Resort Manager. Please email resume and 3 references with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) to manager@meridianclub.com or fax to 649-941-7010 by March 3, 2016. Additional Information: Qualified Belongers preferred. All qualified applicants will be interviewed. Police certificate will be required.

Please send cover letter, resume and copies of qualifications to jobs@flamingopharmacy.com. Incomplete applications may not receive a response. Closing date for applications is March 10th 2016. 1116

12054

February 27 - March 4, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

A DYNAMIC MOBILE SERVICE PROVIDER SEEKS TO RECRUIT FOR THE FOLLOWING POSTS:

HFC Project Manager

Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Contract Type: 1 year Contract

JOB SUMMARY:

The role of the HFC Project Manager is to roll out of the HFC network in the market.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• • • • • • • • • • •

Agree Programme of Works with the Client Source competent resources to construct the network Ensure (SLA’s) are exceeded Liaise directly with the Client, attend regular project review meetings and address Client concerns Plan, direct and coordinate project budgets and programs Manage and support personnel in the day to day operation Plan, monitor and manage project revenue and costs Ensure quality of work meets or exceeds standards Plan and monitor the use of human resources and materials across the division Adhere to all Health and Safety procedure Overall end to end delivery of the project

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role is essential • HFC (Hybrid Fibre Cable) network experience essential • Project management qualification would be an advantage • Good knowledge of Microsoft packages including MS Project • Communications Skills • Leadership Skills • Resource planning skills • Financial planning skills • Full clean driving license • Ability to represent the company in a professional manner at all times Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

HFC Commissioner

Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Contract Type: 1 year Contract

JOB SUMMARY:

Under general supervision, responsible for the commissioning, preventive and/or demand maintenance and repair of the hybrid fibre coax network (HFC) including all of its associated equipment in accordance with the company’s Network Protection Policy and Engineering Standards. Perform maintenance while providing technical support for the Broadband Technicians (BBT) on resolution of service related problems. On-call rotation required.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ability to work at heights and in various challenging field environments • Ability to troubleshoot and repair HFC trunk & distribution RF, AC & DC faults • Ability to troubleshoot basic optical issues • Ability to perform routine Optical Node, RF Amplifier and End of Line testing and balancing • Ability to use HFC plant test equipment – including Signal level meters, volt/current meters, spectrum analysers, leakage testing meters, CPD testing meters, Optical meters & OTDRs • Ability to maintain and interpret records of daily work logs, data recordings, and network design maps • Ability to operate communications devices and company vehicles in accordance with company policies • Ability to adhere to strict Health & Safety Guidelines and

procedures as set out by the company • Ability to perform other duties as requested by supervisor • Adhere to all Health and Safety procedures

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Diploma in Electronics/Electrical Engineering or above • Thorough understanding of HFC networks and optical design • Ability to read, write and speak the English language to communicate with employees, customers, suppliers, in person, on the phone, and by written communications in a clear, straight-forward, and professional manner • Certification to operate Mobile Elevated Work Platforms a plus • 6 months+ Broadband Technician III or equivalent work experience • Flexibility in line with business requirements • Ability to represent the company in a professional manner at all times Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

Construction Administrator Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Contract Type: 1 year Contract

JOB SUMMARY:

The Construction Administrator will assist with the end to end of all the Construction office Administration

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• You will assist the Construction Manager on the daily oversight and management of the Construction office. • Assist in the development and implementation of administrative systems, such as record management and establish policies and procedures • Assisting in special projects by organizing and coordinating information and requirements; planning, arranging, and meeting schedules; monitoring results.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Previous office administration experience. • Strong attention to detail. • Excellent organisational, interpersonal and communication skills. • Excellent literacy, numeric and IT skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office. • Ability to work on own initiative and act independently whilst being able to work successfully as part of team. • Ability to meet deadlines and targets whilst working in a fast paced environment. • Professional, efficient approach and attitude dealing with internal business areas, employees and external parties. • Flexibility in line with business requirements. • Ability to represent the company in a professional manner at all times. Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

Senior HFC Engineer

Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Contract Type: 1 year Contract

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior HFC Engineer performs all aspects of HFC engineering for the project and will be heavily involved in activities including the following. Development of HFC planning/design documentation, plans and specification assembly. Special drawings/ bid processes, construction management documentation, and any other duties to ensure

projects are completed successfully.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The successful candidate must meet a majority of the knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience requirements outlined below. • Design, provision, document, and direct HFC • Support the design and engineering process by planning and preparing initial drawings for construction of new, and removal or rearrangement of existing copper cables, and conduits. • Oversee designs in accordance to customer specifications and guidelines • Works with outside agencies to obtain right of way approvals and coordinate projects with other utilities. • Acquiring permits and or private easements if required.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role is essential • HFC (Hybrid Fibre Cable) network experience essential • Good knowledge of Microsoft packages including MS Project • Communications Skills • Leadership Skills • Resource planning skills • Financial planning skills • Full clean driving license • Ability to represent the company in a professional manner at all times Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

HFC Install Technician

Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Contract Type: 1 year Contract

JOB SUMMARY:

Under general supervision installation of HFC plant elements such as Taps, Splitters, Amplifiers, Line Extenders etc. Also the ability to install and erect Network cables on both underground and overhead infrastructure and perform basic HFC Network tests.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ability and competence to work safely on overhead and underground cable TV networks • Ability to make off network connections 100% accurately as per in-company training i.e. Taps, Splitters, Amplifiers, Line Extenders etc. • Ability to use hand and power tools competently and safely • Ability to maintain and interpret records of daily work logs and network design maps • Ability to operate communications devices and company vehicles in accordance with company policies • Ability to adhere to strict Health & Safety Guidelines and procedures as set out by the company • Ability to maintain the professional image of the company and communicate with customers appropriately • Ability to perform other duties as requested by supervisor • Adhere to all Health and Safety procedures • Ability to work at heights and knowledge of using MEWPS an advantage

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• 6 months+ experience in telecom network environment • Flexibility in line with business requirements • Ability to represent the company in a professional manner at all times Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com before March 13, 2016.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TURQUOISE LANDSCAPING

TWO GARDENERS

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Starting pay $6.25 per hour • Must have previous gardening experience and be familiar with landscaping equipment such as lawn mowers, trimmers etc. • Must be willing to carry out work such as heavy lifting, digging, weeding, trimming and plant waste removal • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays • Must have a clean police record

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 342-0116

13044

Please email: turquoiselandscaping@tciway.tc

CARWASHERS To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 231-0882 OR 347-3900

12042

Is looking for a

To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

LABOURER LABOURER CONTACT: CONTACT: 441-2519 431-4022

PASCAL REMY

NEEDED FOR A RESTAURANT ON GRACE BAY

TILE SETTER To work 5 days

MECHANIC

CONTACT: 241-4188

CONTACT: 649-946-4411

Is looking for a

• Organizational skills a must • Solid references • At least 5 years as kitchen leader • Ability to train and lead is necessary • Salary $50k+

CALL: 649-441-3466 PERMANENT STATUS ONLY

RICHMOND HILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

LYLY’S INTERNET CAFÉ

TEACHER COMPUTER A JANITRESS

To clean the school after school each day

Please apply in writing to: richhillprep@yahoo.com

12011

Is looking for a

TECHNICIAN To work 5 days per week salary $9.00 per hour

CONTACT: 331-3887

LABOURER

Is seeking a general labourer, this position is responsible for cleaning all common areas (stairwells, patios, public bathrooms etc.), garbage removal and cleaning of garbage areas, general housekeeping duties and laundry assistance. Several years experience in a similar position is required, as well as good communication skills, including excellent English; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

WAGES $6.25 PER HOUR Belongers only need apply Closing date: March 4th 2016 Please apply in writing to: Human Resources, Point Grace, PO Box 700, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Email: humanresources@ pointgrace.com or Fax: 946-5097. No phone calls.

12057

With a minimum of ten years teaching experience

per week salary $6.50 per hour

MARINE To work 6 days per week salary commensurate with experience

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

is looking to fill the following positions:

A TRAINED PRIMARY SCHOOL

S. WALKIN & SONS MARINE is looking for a

12056

Is looking for

SANDRA E. GARLAND

CHEF/ SOUS CHEF

10898

MR. BIGGS CAR WASH

12063

SEASHELL BREEZE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD

12058

WESLEY HEPBURN

12040

36 CLASSIFIEDS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

INVEST TURKS & CAICOS

SUPERVISOR,FRONT DESK, HOUSEMAID, HOUSEMAN, RESERVATION SPECIALIST AND OTHER POSITIONS AVAILABLE Must have hotel related experience, strong English skills, and friendly outgoing personality Forward resume and covering letter to dpapke@portsofcallresort.com

THE LAW FIRM OF STANFIELD GREENE Is seeking one suitably qualified

ATTORNEY

The successful candidate will be responsible for the firm’s civil and criminal litigation. Applicants should have at least 10 years experience with emphasis in the field of litigation, should possess good writing skills and have an eye for details. Salary is negotiable and based on experience. Applicants should apply by sending their resume or CV to: STANFIELD GREENE PO Box 481, Graceway House, Building A, Suite 201, Leeward Highway Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands ATTENTION: Clayton S. Greene Email: csg@stanfieldgreene.com Belongers only need apply. Only those Applicants that will be interviewed will be contacted. 12066

Turks & Caicos Islands National Health Insurance Board

TENDER NOTICE

VACANCY Vice President - SME

JOB SUMMARY:

The Vice President-SME (VP-SME) will be responsible for leading efforts to implement the TCI Government’s Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Ordinance and encourage all other aspects of domestic investment. The incumbent will be responsible for facilitating applications by domestic investors for duty concessions and cash grants as outlined under the MSME Ordinance and for providing funds to clients of the Center for Entrepreneurial Development who have been approved for technical assistance. The incumbent will be responsible for reviewing project proposals, following up with investors to ensure that there is a complete package of materials, arranging for materials to be distributed to the Development Advisory Group for their input, providing feedback to their investor clients on issues, supporting the CEO in negotiating with Government and clients on investment incentives. The VP-SME will be required to prepare Cabinet submissions with respect to specific projects under their care and to provide advice and support to Ministers related to those projects. As well, the VP-SME will need to develop and implement guidelines for the provision of cash grants for domestic investors who have applied for grants and to provide contribution (grant) agreements to clients of the CED who are approved for technical assistance.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Post graduate degree in a relevant discipline such as Business Management, Marketing, or Economics.

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE:

1. At least three years’ experience in a management role in a business or economic development organization. 2. Extensive research and analysis experience involving industry or economic development issues 3. Experience in destination and/or investment marketing. 4. Strong background in sales and business development and the ability to proactively seek out and call on senior executives of commercial organizations and advise them on their business operations 5. Experience in lead generation and supporting customer service. 6. Experience in the writing, designing and production of marketing materials. 7. Experience in using website management and other communication channels

SKILLS:

1. Creativity. 2. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 3. Use of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook 4. Experience making presentations to large and small groups 5. Motivated self-starter with ability to work independently. 6. Ability to effectively manage time.

PERSONAL QUALITIES:

Further information is available on the NHIB website at www.tcinhip.tc

1. Open and engaging demeanor. 2. Able to generate and share ideas. 3. Hands-on approach. 4. Willing to take personal responsibility 5. Able to win trust and personal credibility 6. Persistence and personal resilience. 7. Willingness to personally deliver quality to business clients. 8. Willingness to understand different cultures, lifestyles and associated points of view. 9. Willingness to understand the values associated with small communities.

Tender documents are available upon request in electronic format only from the National Health Insurance Office in Providenciales, via telephone at (649) 946-8861 or via e-mail at zburton@tcinhip.tc.

1. Fluent English 2. Willingness and ability to travel by air and sea.

Tenders are to be submitted in a sealed envelope by 12:00 Noon on Friday, March 10, 2016 to:

Negotiable in the range of $65,000 to $71,000 based on qualifications and experience.

The Turks & Caicos Islands National Health Insurance Board invites tenders from Companies with a valid “Audit & Accountancy Firm” business license for: TCIG – IHC Cost efficiency Strategic Framework Part 2 (Reconciliation) Tender Reference No.: TR02/2016

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

SALARY AND ALLOWANCES: APPLICATION PROCEDURE

The Chief Executive Officer National Health Insurance Board, Unit 55/56 Salt Mills Plaza,Grace Bay Road Providenciales,Turks and Caicos Islands

Interested persons should submit a resume, along with their contact information, cover letter, two letters of reference (one from a former employer), and copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. To obtain a copy of the Vice President - SME job description please send an email to investturksandcaicos@ gmail.com.

The Turks & Caicos Islands National Health Insurance Board is not bound to accept any, or the lowest bid, and reserves the right to annul the tender process at any time prior to award of Contract.

12055

All applications must be received by 12 noon on Wednesday, March 10, 2016 and should be emailed to investturksandcaicos@gmail.com. Only persons considered for an interview will be contacted. 12060

February 27 - March 4, 2016

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Dodo birds weren’t ‘dodos’ after all DODOS weren’t as dumb as their reputation suggests. New research finds that these extinct, flightless birds were likely as smart as modern pigeons, and had a better sense of smell.

Dodos (Raphus cucullatus) had gone extinct by 1662, less than 100 years after their island home of Mauritius became a destination for Dutch explorers. The birds, unfamiliar with humans, were

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC The eligible candidate MUST have the following credentials in order to be considered: • CAA AMEL with group rating in Cat A and Cat C License with

Caicos Tours is looking for two freediving Tour Guides to entertain and care for guest, both above and below water Candidates will need a good understanding of Reef Ecology, Certifications in freediving, SCUBA & First Aid, a current STCW 95, an extremely professional working attitude and the ability to communicate easily with guests of all ages. The working week is Monday – Saturday including bank holidays, hours are from 8:30am until the boat is cleaned after the last tour of the day. Additional hours may be required on occasion. 12043

Please contact: Caicos Tours on 649-432-0007 for further information. Belongers only need apply

TSI0520 RATING FAA A&P License with experience in general aviation airplanes with C402 type Salary scale at approximately $30K annually Should be an independent worker without supervision Should be between the ages 30-50 years of age

Deadline for remitting a letter of application and resumes is 9th April 2015

12037

TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Sales Executive

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE • Assist clients in the sale, purchase, letting or leasing of real estate • Introducing new clients and promoting real estate sales and new listings • Promptly notifying the Employer of the particulars of any new listing secured by the Employee, and of any potential listing or potential buyer coming to his/her attention • Performing such administrative functions as the Manager or acting Manager for the time being of the Employer (“the Manager”) may from time to time assign to the Employee • Participating in such meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, events and functions connected with real estate • Assisting in the preparation and publication or promotional material and media • Fostering good relations with companies

• • • •

Is looking for a

CARPENTER

HELPER

$6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 332-3866

AN ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Any interested persons should contact Richardson Arthur at 232-1982 and resumes can be faxed to 941-3864 or emailed to info@caicosexpressairways.com

QUALIFIED BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

body size,” study researcher Eugenia Gold of Stony Brook University said in a statement, referring to the dodo’s brain. “So if you take brain size as a proxy for intelligence, dodos probably had a similar

KENARD CRUICKSHANKTURTLE COVE

MERMAIDS

Requires an

Seeking Real Estate

that these birds had brain-tobody sizes that are similar to those of modern pigeons. “It’s not impressively large or impressively small — it’s exactly the size you would predict it to be for its

WANTED

CAICOS EXPRESS AIRWAYS

• • • •

initially fearless. This made them easy pickings for hunters and also cemented their reputation as dullards. A new computed tomography (CT) scan of a rare, intact dodo skull reveals

in the real estate business and their employees and agents Participate as a practicing member of the Turks & Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) Keeping proper and organized records of activities and of the properties with which you are associated with Sales and listing reports Required to work after hours and weekends as necessary

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS • A minimum of 10 years in Real Estate Sales • Business Degree from a recognized University • Sales Training Courses • Multi Language Skills an asset • Microsoft Computer application knowledge

Commission Based Remuneration – Application Closing Date – March 15th, 2016. Please submit CV to: Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, P.O. BOX 279, Venture House, Providenciales, Telephone: 649-946-4474 or Fax: 649-946-4433 12044

Is required for a growing firm in Providenciales.

The successful candidate must be a qualified solicitor/attorney with at least ten years previous experience in appropriate property disciplines, including commercial and residential conveyancing and development work; landlord and tenant; commercial lending and also corporate and commercial law. Experience in a registered land system and an offshore jurisdiction; drafting complex development, security and financing documents; excellent communication skills; and an ability to manage files and work unsupervised are all essentials. Candidate must also show willingness to be responsible for marketing and work long hours, including weekends and public holidays, if the need demands it. Salary will commensurate with experience. Please provide a copy of your application to Labour. Resumes with copies of qualifications must be sent by February 22, 2016 to info@karammissick.com.

11973

ISLANDS PRIDE FISHERIES LTD. One (1) Captain/Engineer for Commercial Fishing Vessel DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Oversee the safety of the crew, vessel and catch - Responsible for the service and maintenance of the engines aboard the vessel, including any attached lifeboats -Checking and recording the catch for each crew member, including self, catch from traps and ensuring both tallies with total overall catch -Deepsea line fishing with reel -Assist the trap man to set and pull traps -Gut, ice and store fish, in common with the crew, including the captain/engineer REQUIREMENTS: • Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer - Ability to lead a team -Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel • Salary: Stipend plus based on catch shared equally with crew ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY. APPLICATION FORMS AVAILABLE FROM BUTTERFIELD GOLD HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT. ONLY APPLICANTS SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE NOTIFIED. APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 3RD, 2016

February 27 - March 4, 2016

ISAAC ORAL SELVER Is looking for a

KITCHEN

HELPER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JESSICA HALL LONG BAY HIGHWAY

Is looking for a

LABOURER $6.25 per hour

12038

CONTACT: CONTACT: 231-6318 432-0131

NEWS REPORTER The Weekly News is in need of a reporter. Applicant should have a good background in English and must be a clear and competent writer. Previous experience on a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting operation is essential. Ability to type well and use a camera a must. Successful person will be required to cover parliament the community, politics and the courts. Send application to the Publisher, Turks & Caicos News Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 52, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Or email: tcweeklynews@gmail. com. Sorry, no phone calls.

Science & Technology intelligence level to pigeons.” And pigeons aren’t that dumb. Studies find that they’re capable ofrecognizing and remembering human faces. They’re also very trainable and have mathematical abilities similar to those of rhesus monkeys. Gold, an anatomist, was interested in learning more about the dodo’s ecology,

as this bird is mostly known through the contemporaneous accounts of the sailors and settlers who brought about the animal’s demise. A few living dodos were brought back to Europe, she and her colleagues wrote today (Feb. 23) in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. But those animals were kept confined and fed human food,

making them fat. Wild dodos may not have looked like the portly birds seen in European illustrations. Gold and her colleagues conducted a CT scan of the dodo skull, which was at the Natural History Museum, London. They also scanned the skull of the dodo’s closest relative, the Rodrigues solitaire (Pezophaps solitaria). This flightless bird

NOTICE REGULATION 7 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS 1990 An Application registered, PR: 12559, for construction of Six Apartment Units have been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Detail Development Permission by PAUL BERESFORD. The location is Parcel 60809/26, which is in the Long Bay Hills area of Providenciales. Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of Publication of this Notice.

lived on the Indian Ocean island of Rodrigues and went extinct in the 1700s, due to overhunting and other human activities. Using the scans, the researchers then reconstructed virtual “casts” of the bird brains. The scans showed a brain that compared with the bodyto-brain ratio of modern pigeons. Unusually, the olfactory bulb of the brain, responsible for processing smells, was particularly large. Dodos, with their diet of fruit, shellfish and small land animals, might have relied heavily on smell for finding food, Gold and her colleagues wrote. In comparison, birds that fly tend to have smaller olfactory bulbs and larger optic bulbs, because they depend more on sight to navigate and to find prey.

GREATFUL LEPER

MINISTRY

Is seeking a full time

EVANGELIST

salary negotiable interested persons can

Email: im.macula@hotmail.com

12055

12053

ISLANDS PRIDE FISHERIES LTD. Position:

1 CAPTAIN/ENGINEER

Bohio Dive Resort is recruiting for the following position:

WATER SPORTS COORDINATOR & NIGHT AUDITOR

for Commercial Fishing Vessel

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE

Oversee the safety of the crew, vessel and catch - Responsible for the service and maintenance of the engines aboard the vessel, including any attached lifeboats -Checking and recording the catch for each crew member, including self, catch from traps and ensuring both tallies with total overall catch -Deep-sea line fishing with reel -Assist the trap man to set and pull traps -Gut, ice and store fish, in common with the crew, including the captain/engineer

• Certification in Sage 50 Accounting Software in order to complete bookkeeping entries in the evenings • ability to plan & schedule scuba diving, boating excursions and water activities for both guests and cruise ship visitors • English and French required, Spanish an asset • Must be PADI Certified Open Water Diver and Boat Captain • Minimum 2 years living in a Caribbean setting • Work Schedule will include weekends, public holidays and most evenings

REQUIREMENTS:

Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer Ability to lead a team -Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel

SALARY:

Monthly Wage: $1250.00 per month CANDIDATES SHOULD APPLY IN WRITING INCLUDING A COVER LETTER, RESUME AND REFERENCES TO: INFO@BOHIORESORT.COM

Stipend plus based on catch shared equally with crew

11966

Only Belongers need apply. Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Application deadline: March 15th, 2016 12061

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

February 27 - March 4, 2016

High sugar diet as damaging to the brain as extreme stress, experts warn In light of mounting evidence indicating the link between a high sugar diet and ill health, it is now widely accepted that more should be done to encourage people to reduce their consumption of sugar. Many interest groups are pushing for the imposition of a “sin tax” on sweet drinks, and dietary guidelines in the US and UK have been tightened to reflect the changing scientific evidence. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends no more than 10 percent of a person’s daily energy should come from added sugars, or those found naturally in juices and honey, which equates to around 50g or 12 teaspoons a day. And while the links between a high-sugar diet and obesity, with all its accompanying ills, are well documented, experts are now turning their attention to the other ways sugar can affect the body. In a recent study, a team at the University of New South Wales concluded that sugar is as damaging to the brain as extreme stress or abuse. Research associate Jayanthi Maniam and professor of pharmacology Margaret Morris were involved in the study and discussed

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends no more than 10 percent of a person’s daily energy should come from added sugars, or those found naturally in juices and honey, which equates to around 50g or 12 teaspoons a day.

their findings with The Conversation: “The changes we observed to the region of the brain that controls emotional behaviour and cognitive function were more extensive than those caused by extreme early life stress,” they revealed. “It is known that adverse experiences early in life, such as extreme stress or abuse, increase the risk of poor mental health and psychiatric disorders later in life. “The number of traumatic events – accidents; witnessing an injury; bereavement; natural disasters;

physical, sexual and emotional abuse; domestic violence and being a victim of crime – a child is exposed to is associated with elevated concentrations of the major stress hormone, cortisol. “There is also evidence that childhood maltreatment is associated with reduced brain volume and that these changes may be linked to anxiety. “Looking at rats, we examined whether the impact of early life stress on the brain was exacerbated by drinking high volumes of sugary drinks after weaning. “As females are more likely to experience adverse life events, we studied female Sprague-Dawley rats. “To model early life trauma or abuse, after rats were born half of the litters were exposed to limited nesting material from days two to nine after birth. “They then returned to normal bedding until they were weaned. “The limited nesting alters maternal behaviour and increases anxiety in the offspring later in life. “At weaning, half the rats were given unlimited to access to low-fat chow and water to drink, while their sisters were given chow, water and a 25 per cent sugar solution that they could choose to drink.

Lab-grown sperm makes healthy offspring SPERM have been made in the laboratory and used to father healthy baby mice in a pioneering move that could lead to infertility treatments. The Chinese research took a stem cell, converted it into primitive sperm and fertilised an egg to produce healthy pups. The study, in the Journal Cell Stem Cell, showed they were all healthy and grew up to have offspring of their own. Experts said it was a step towards human therapies. It could ultimately help boys whose fertility is damaged by cancer treatment, infections such as mumps or those with defects that leave them unable to produce sperm. Making sperm in the testes is one of the longest and most complicated processes in the body - taking more than a month from start to finish in most mammals. Now scientists have been able to reproduce the feat in the lab. An embryonic stem cell, which can morph into any other type of tissue, was guided towards becoming sperm with a cocktail of chemicals, hormones and testicular tissue. In order to develop properly the cell must go through a crucial and delicate rearrangement of its DNA -

Scientists have been able to reproduce and enhance sperm making in the lab.

its code of life - called meiosis. Just like a female’s egg, sperm must lose half of their chromosomes (bundles of DNA) so that a fertilised egg has a normal amount. The Chinese research team say they have met the international goldstandard set out for reproducing meiosis in the lab. But they did not create sperm as you would recognise them with a head and a tail for swimming they were a stage earlier known as spermatids.

However, the spermatids have the correct amount of genetic information and were successfully inserted into mouse eggs through IVF. “All the offspring were healthy and fertile,” Professor Xiao-Yang Zhao, from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told the BBC News website. He told the BBC that he hoped the study would offer “inspiration” for similar work with human tissue to “solve the problem of sterility”.

As it burned up, the space rock released the equivalent of 13,000 tonnes of TNT.

Large space rock burns up over Atlantic THE biggest fireball since the Chelyabinsk explosion has plunged through the atmosphere over the Atlantic Ocean. The event, which has only just come to light, occurred off the coast of Brazil at 13:55 GMT on 6 February. As it burned up, the space rock released the equivalent of 13,000 tonnes of TNT. This makes it the most powerful event of its kind since an object exploded over Chelyabinsk in Russia in 2013. That blast was much bigger, releasing the equivalent of 500,000 tonnes of TNT.

More than 1,000 people were injured in that incident on 15 February three years ago, most from flying glass from shattered windows. But the fireball over the Atlantic probably went unnoticed; it burnt up about 30km above the ocean surface, 1,000km off the Brazilian coast. Nasa listed the event on its Fireball and Bolide Reports web page. Measurements suggest that about 30 small asteroids (between 1m and 20m in size) burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere every year. Because most of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, most of these fall over the ocean and do not affect populated areas. (BBC)

Zika virus: US investigating 14 possible sexually-transmitted cases US health officials are investigating 14 new reports of possible sexual transmission of the Zika virus. The cases include several involving pregnant women, the CDC said. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) made the revelation while publishing new guidance on sexual transmission of the virus. The guidance has been issued in response to confirmation of the first case of Zika in a non-traveller in the continental United States. That case was linked to sexual contact with an infected partner. The CDC is advising all men who have travelled to an area active with the Zika virus to use condoms or abstain from sex for the length of the pregnancy. There is no evidence yet that women can transmit Zika virus to their sex partners, but more research is needed to understand this issue, the health body said. Scientists last week said a study involving pregnant women in Brazil “strengthened” the theory that Zika is linked to the microcephaly birth defects in babies. The defect can cause babies

to be born with abnormally small heads and affect their cognitive development. The research confirmed the presence of Zika virus in the amniotic fluid of two women who had had Zika-like symptoms during their pregnancies. Brazilian experts say this suggests the virus can infect the foetus. The primary method of infection of the virus remains mosquito bites. Experts say women who are pregnant should try to avoid the insects. On Tuesday, Margaret Chan, the head of the World Health Organization, said the world faced “a long journey” to defeat Zika. Speaking in Brazil, where most cases have been recorded, she said it was a “very tricky, very tenacious, very difficult” virus. (BBC)

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FIFA dismisses Blatter, Platini appeals but reduces bans

Brendon McCullum scored his Test century in a record breaking 54 balls.

Richards lauds McCullum after fastest Test ton in swansong WEST Indies batting legend Vivian Richards has lauded swashbuckling New Zealand batsman Brendon McCullum for posting the fastest ton in Test cricket off just 54 balls, bidding adieu to the game on an incredible high. Richards, who held the record for the quickest hundred in Tests off 56 balls jointly with Pakistan’s Misbah-ul-Haq till McCullum broke it on Saturday, was all praise for the Kiwi skipper for his record-breaking feat. opportunity to congratulate Brendon…(I’ve) been a great fan of yours for many years. Well done on your achievement,” said Richards in the video on Twitter, posted by Pakistan Super League

(PSL) side Quetta Gladiators. “And if there was going to be an individual who you would’ve liked to have surpassed whatever you would’ve achieved in life, certainly it would be you. You’re one of those individuals who help to put bums on seats. Long may that continue. Well done, man,” he added. McCullum came to bat when New Zealand were struggling at 32 for three on the opening day of the second Test against Australia at Christchurch. McCullum smashed 100 runs off just 54 deliveries to pull New Zealand out of trouble and in the process also broke Richards’ record set against England in 1986. (Inews)

FIFA reforms more vital than new president - Greg Dyke Reforming FIFA into a better-run organisation is more important than who is elected as its new president on Friday, says Football Association chairman Greg Dyke. Football’s world governing body is meeting in Zurich, Switzerland to decide who succeeds Sepp Blatter. However, there will also be a vote on a reform programme aimed at making it more democratic and accountable. “I think there is an opportunity for FIFA to start again,” said Dyke. The FA is one of 207 member associations who will vote on the package of measures - which FIFA hopes will move it on from a corruption crisis. FIFA wants members to agree to term limits for top officials and disclose their salaries, as well as creating a new FIFA council, which will include a minimum of six

FIFA was set to elect a new president on Friday.

women - before choosing a new president. The FA has backed Swiss Gianni Infantino, Uefa’s general secretary. He is up against Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa, Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, Tokyo Sexwale and Jerome Champagne. “Hopefully we pass the reform programme, we elect a new president and FIFA goes back to some sort of normality,” said Dyke.

FIFA has denied appeals from its former president Sepp Blatter and his one-time heir apparent, former UEFA president Michel Platini, to strike down their bans from “all football-related activities.” The two men had been banned for eight years each following the FIFA Ethics Committee’s findings that Platini had received a twomillion Swiss franc ($2.02 million) “advisory payment” from Blatter. The Committee found that they had broken FIFA Code of Ethics relating to conflicts of interest, breach of loyalty and gifts. The pair were cleared of bribery and corruption allegations. Just ahead of its presidential vote Friday, the appeal committee did reduce both men’s bans from eight to six years, citing their service to football as justification for the reduction. A statement posted on the global governing body’s website stated that “some strong mitigating factors for Mr .Platini and Mr. Blatter were not taken into account when establishing the sanction.” It suggested that the “activities and the services they had rendered to FIFA, UEFA and football in general over the years should deserve appropriate recognition as a mitigating factor.” The two former officials are also obliged to pay fines, with Platini owing FIFA 80,000 Swiss francs ($80,873) and Blatter 50,000 Swiss francs($50,541). Platini, the former Juventus and French national team legend, said that the decision not to repeal the

Former FIFA head Sepp Blatter and former UEFA President Michel Platini will see a reduction of two years from their eight years ban.

ban was “”insulting... shameful and a denial of rights.” He said he would appeal through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Blatter, who in October 2015 was forced to step down after 17 years in charge of football’s governing body, said in a statement that he was “deeply disappointed” with the verdict, which means he will be unable to preside over Friday’s election for his permanent successor at an Extraordinary Congress. The reduced bans come two days before new presidential elections and as FIFA struggles to rebuild its reputation and maintain its position as the guardians of arguably the world’s most popular sport. On Wednesday its Executive Committee urged member associations to approve a raft of proposed reforms at Friday’s

congress. Last year topped a fraught period for the organisation, seeing multiple arrests and bans for officials over corruption. Friday’s vote for a new top administrator has not regained the trust of football fans worldwide, with a Transparency International/Forza Football poll showing that seven out of ten fans have “no confidence in FIFA.” The current candidates do not exactly represent a new broom for an organization badly in need of reform. Among the hopefuls are Jerome Champagne, a former FIFA deputy secretary general, Gianni Infantino, Platini’s deputy at UEFA, Tokyo Sexwale, a member of the 2010 World Cup organizing committee, and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, a former Blatter ally who has been accused of human rights abuses.

Pacquiao says he’s ‘not bothered’ by celebrity criticism FILIPINO boxing star Manny Pacquiao responded to the rash of celebrity criticism that he has received since making anti-gay comments during a television interview last week, saying that he is not concerned about the outpouring of disapproval. “I’m not bothered, that’s the world,” Pacquiao said to local media per BoxingScene.com. “I mean, Jesus lives in me so I’m always happy. Says the Bible, everyday has enough troubles of its own, so don’t be bothered about that.” Hall of Fame basketball player Magic Johnson recently joined the list of celebrities that have taken offense to Pacquiao’s statement that gay people are “worse than animals.” Johnson said on Wednesday that he applauded Nike for terminating

Manny Pacquiao is currently running for Senate in the Philippines and presents himself as a conservative Christian candidate.

its contract with Pacquiao. Pacquiao is currently running for Senate in the Philippines and presents himself as a conservative

Christian candidate. He apologised for his initial comment, but has maintained his anti-gay marriage stance. (SI.com)

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Celtics were simply made aware Carmelo Anthony didn’t want to leave the Knicks to join them.

Anthony reportedly was trade target for Celtics prior to deadline

AIBA president says that the association wants the best boxers to compete at the Games.

Pro boxers set to become eligible to fight in Rio Olympics Top professional boxers will become eligible to compete in this summer’s Rio Olympics under radical new proposals being pushed through by the sport’s world governing body, AIBA. Its president, Dr Ching-Kuo Wu, has indicated that the last remaining barriers preventing fulltime professionals competing in the Games are set to be abolished within a matter of months. In an interview with the Press Association, Wu said: “We want the best boxers to come to the Olympic Games. It is AIBA’s 70th birthday, and we want something to change -not after four years, but now. “It is an IOC policy to have the best athletes in the Games, and of the international federations, AIBA is probably the only one without professional athletes in the O”We already have our own professionals, APB and WSB boxers, in the Games - [and] we will go further.” Pressed on whether the change could realistically be made in time to affect eligibility for the Rio Olympics this summer, Wu replied: “According to our statutes it is absolutely possible.” Wu was speaking during an AIBA Commissions meeting in Manchester on Wednesday, at which a change in the existing eligibility criteria is top of the agenda. Proposals from the meeting must subsequently be ratified by AIBA’s executive commission. Despite the qualifying process for Rio already being well underway, the intention is clearly to change the rules in time to give each individual national federation the opportunity to

select whomever they want in time to join the remainder of the procedure. Theoretically that could mean a superstar like Floyd Mayweather turning up Rio in search of the Olympic gold medal he felt he was unfairly denied in Atlanta in 1996. In reality, for the majority of nations it will be a more gradual process. Neither GB Boxing nor the Irish Boxing Association would pick established professionals over promising athletes they have nurtured through fully-funded programmes over the last four years. But there would be nothing to stop them enquiring about the availability of a current, or even former, professional to slot in at a weight at which they do not consider to have current medal or qualification potential. Prospective issues over existing commitments and contracts - for starters, the British Boxing Board of Control would require boxers to relinquish their professional licences before launching any prospective Olympic bid - would be left up to each individual national federation to overcome. AIBA say they have been working on broadening their eligibility criteria for Rio for some time, but were given implicit encouragement to fast-track the process by the publication of the IOC’s Agenda 2020 document in 2014, whose Recommendation 9 declares the intention of “ensuring participation by the best athletes”. Reform of AIBA’s eligibility criteria has been top of Wu’s agenda since he was elected president of the

organisation in 2006. Under Wu, AIBA has dropped the word amateur from its official title, removed vests and headguards from AIBA-sanctioned men’s events, and instigated ‘professional’ competitions such as APB and the increasingly successful, team-based World Series of Boxing. Under new rules introduced in 2013, professional boxers became able to go to the Olympics provided they had had less than 15 paid bouts and signed a short-term contract committing themselves to AIBA’s professional arm, APB. These restrictions are now set to be abolished in a move which will effectively end any differences between the traditional definitions of professional and amateur boxing codes. “I think any international federation must start to think about what the future of the sport will be, and if we know what we would like to happen then we must propel our vision,” added Wu. “After 70 years, it is up to AIBA to set up a good foundation which will last for many decades. “When I took over the presidency in 2006 I made it very clear the term of amateur is not really relevant because when you look now at all the Olympic sports, who is really amateur? “I think the process is very clear and we plan to consider it very thoroughly. “We have already received a very strong, positive response from our members, and everybody is excited and would like to see it.” (ESPN. co.uk)

THE Boston Celtics reportedly showed interest in New York Knicks superstar Carmelo Anthony before the NBA’s trade deadline last week. Ian Begley of ESPN reported it’s unclear what type of discussions may have occurred between the Eastern Conference rivals before the deadline passed. He noted the Celtics were simply made aware Anthony didn’t want to leave the Knicks to join them. His stance doesn’t come as a surprise. Steve Popper of the Record passed along comments from the 31-year-old Syracuse product in the days leading up to the deadline, and Anthony made it clear his ultimate goal is bringing a title to New York: Doing it in New York is better than doing it any place in the world. One [championship] in New York

is better than multiple somewhere else. That was the reason I wanted to come to New York. That’s the reason I’m in New York. It just bothers me when I start hearing all these trade rumors and trade talks. While it’s unknown what the Celtics may have offered for Anthony, draft picks to jump-start a Knicks rebuilding effort would have probably been the centerpiece. Real GM notes Boston has a boatload of picks over the next few years, including three first-round selections in 2016. From there, it would have come down to making the salaries work under the cap. Anthony sports a $22.88 million cap hit for the current campaign, and it steadily rises to just under $28 million by 2018-19, according to Spotrac.

World number one Novak Djokovic has won the Dubai tournament on four previous occasions.

Djokovic retires from Dubai quarter-finals NOVAK Djokovic was forced to retire from his Dubai Tennis Championships quarter-final against Feliciano Lopez. The world number one appeared to be suffering from an eye problem and quit after losing the first set 6-3. A day on from his 700th career win, Djokovic’s run of making 17 successive Tour finals came to an end after making 18 unforced errors in only nine games against the sixth seed.

Spaniard Lopez will now face Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis in the semi-finals. Djokovic, an 11-time major champion, has won the Dubai Championship four times previously. Playing in his first tournament since winning a sixth Australian Open title at the end of January, the Serb uncharacteristically lost his opening service game and had to save three break points to avoid falling 3-0 behind.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Sports Interational

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Champions League: Manchester City cruises past Dynamo Kiev MANCHESTER City took a giant stride towards the quarterfinals of the Champions League after an emphatic 3-1 win at Dynamo Kiev. City, aiming to qualify for the last eight for the first time in its history, made light work of the Ukrainian side with a stylish performance. Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Yaya Toure were all on target as City made light of its recent poor form. City had led 2-0 at the interval before Vitaliy Buyalskiy gave Dynamo hope with a deflected effort. But Toure’s wonderful curling effort settled the contest and leaves City very much in control going into the second leg. Manchester City has struggled in recent weeks despite having one of the most expensive squads in the world game. City, fourth in the Premier League, is six points adrift of surprise leader Leicester City while it also crashed out of the FA Cup with a 5-1 defeat by Chelsea last weekend. Manuel Pellegrini’s side, which had lost its two previous league games against Leicester and Tottenham, came under fire for resting a number of key players for the game at Stamford Bridge. It was back to full strength for this clash in Kiev with Aguero restored to the attack and Vincent Kompany, the captain, starting in defense. And it was Aguero who made the difference for City as it roared into a two-goal lead before the interval. The Argentine forward showed

his predatory instincts to fire City ahead on 15 minutes after meeting Toure’s knock down. He could have had another couple by the time City moved further ahead courtesy of Silva. Aguero’s backheel released Raheem Sterling and his cross was converted at the far post by the Spanish playmaker. Not since 1999 has Dynamo Kiev reached the last four of the competition -- in fact, it has not played a knockout tie in the competition since then. On that occasion it boasted the supreme strike force of Andriy Shevchenko and its now manager, Sergiy Rebrov. Kiev, which defeated the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid on its way to the semifinals 17 years ago, was eventually beaten by Bayern Munich. This current generation does not have the star quality which Shevchenko and Rebrov enjoyed but it has talent of its own. Andriy Yarmolenko, the Ukrainian international, is just one player who has caught the eye in recent years. Last season he helped Dynamo reach the quarterfinals of the Europa League by starring in his side’s victory over Everton. He scored 18 goals last season and had 13 in 23 appearances this year going into this tie. But it was his teammate Buyalskiy who got Dynamo back in this game just before the hour mark. City, which had looked

Manchester City had threatened early on through Sergio Aguero.

comfortable for much of the contest, failed to clear its lines and Buyalskiy unleashed a fierce effort which flew into the net with the aid of a deflection. Dynamo, which hadn’t played a competitive fixture since December with the Ukrainian season still on its winter break, continued to push forward. Joe Hart, the City goalkeeper, produced a fine save to deny Buyalskiy an equalizer while Toure missed a wonderful chance at the other end when he headed wide from

close range. But the Ivorian soon atoned for his miss by curling home a sumptuous effort with a minute of the contest remaining. “I’m very happy because it is a very good result,” Pellegrini told BT Sport. “It is not finished but playing away and having a two-goal lead is very good. The team played well and had lots of chances. “Maybe when it was 2-1 we had moments of doubt, but then we got the third goal.

“Is the tie settled? No. It is important in football to never think it is finished. But to have that third goal gives us more confidence for the second leg.” In the night’s other tie, Atletico Madrid could only manage a goalless draw at 10-man PSV Eindhoven. Gaston Pereiro’s red card left the home side facing an uphill struggle to take something from the contest. But the Dutch side battled hard and will hope to pull off a surprise result when the two teams meet again on March 15. (BBC)

Athletics doping: IAAF suspend Kenyan body’s chief executive THE IAAF has provisionally suspended the chief executive of Athletics Kenya amid allegations he asked athletes for bribes to reduce doping bans. The governing body for athletics said it took the decision concerning Isaac Mwangi “in the interests of the integrity of the sport”. Meanwhile, Kenya has been given until 5 April to show it complies with the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) code. If it fails to do show it could be banned from international athletics. In regards to Mwangi, an investigation into “potential subversion of the anti-doping control process in Kenya” will now take place. He denies wrongdoing and said he had wanted to leave his post for

Isaac Mwangi said the corruption claims against him are “unsubstantiated”.

21 days to clear his name prior to the IAAF announcing his suspension. Wada said it was “most disturbed”

by the claims. “The allegations have caused me a lot of mental anguish,” Mwangi

said in a letter to Athletics Kenya. “I am anxious to have my name cleared.” Two suspended athletes claimed Mwangi had asked for money in exchange for more lenient punishments - allegations Mwangi said were “unsubstantiated”. “Mr Mwangi remains presumed innocent until the outcome of the investigation and the determination of any disciplinary charges which may follow from that investigation,” added the IAAF statement. BBC Sport revealed last week that Kenya had missed a deadline to prove to Wada it was tackling cheating in athletics, following a string of positive drugs tests and corruption allegations. The east African country,

whose athletes are dominant in distance running, finished top of the medal table at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing with seven golds. But since 2011, more than 40 of its athletes have failed drugs tests. Three other senior officials at Athletics Kenya were suspended last year by the IAAF while an investigation took place into allegations of “subversion” of the anti-doping process in Kenya and “improper diversion” of funds received from Nike. Vice-president David Okeyo, a council member for the IAAF, president Isaiah Kiplagat, and Joseph Kinyua, a former treasurer of the national association, all deny any wrongdoing. (BBC)

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Beaches advanced to the semi-final with a 3-0 win over Teachers FC.

PRESIDENT’S CUP:

AFC Academy, Beaches and Full Physic advance DEFENDING champions of the President’s Cup Cheshire Hall were booted from the competition after a first round defeat to early favourites, the AFC Academy. Along with the Academy, Beaches FC and Full Physic have also advanced. The three teams and Grand Turk United (who drew a first round bye) will battle in the semi-finals of the knockout football competition (after new fixtures are drawn). Cheshire Hall were looking for a hat-trick of titles, after success over the last two years, but the Academy side triumphed 3-1 on Saturday last in opener of a double header at the Academy ground. The U18 Academy team went ahead in the first half, before Jeanlis Job drew Cheshire Hall levelled in

the second period. Cheshire Hall had a few debatable calls down the stretch, but they also failed to take advantage of their scoring opportunities. In the end, tension got the better of them as Job received a straight red card. Academy stayed calm and converted two other goals before the final whistle. In the second clash Beaches defeated Teachers 3-0. Teachers had a few opportunities in the first half, including an open goal break, but Basil McGregor missed from 20 yards out. Beaches opened the scoring with a nice finish after a one-two assist through the middle. They made it 2-0 after a Courtney Tain cross found the head of Jonoy Davis. Romain Small sealed the game in

the second period after another good cross from Tain. On Tuesday evening Full Physic (without player/coach James Rene) advanced to the final four with a 4-1 win over the SWA Sharks. Sharks had the early opportunities, but Full Physic proved the better team. They executed their passes well, finished with precision and were stout in defence. Ambrose Sigaud scored the opener for the eventual winners, while in the second half a confident, more energetic Full Physic side, surged ahead with three consecutive goals after Samuel Nacius, Elton Charles and Luke Edwards found the back of the net. Phil Shearer scored a consolation goal for the Sharks towards the end.

Jeff Beljour was expected to take part in this weekend’s College ID Camp in Florida.

PABA NIGHT LEAGUE:

Beljour set for US college camp

THE red hot Spartans cooled down over the last week with two defeats after a string of exciting victories. After losing to the Kings on Saturday night, the Spartans (7-4) went down to the Police Badgers on Wednesday night also at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court. Police power forward Saundro Germain was on the ball with another double-double. He improved from his 19 points and 10 rebounds against the Steelers last week, to score 24 points, 18 boards and three steals against the Spartans. Also in the thick of things was new comer Dwayne Simmons, who too scored 24 points to go with eight rebounds, two blocks and two steals. Power forward Shannon Hall led the Spartans with 23 points, eight

AFC Academy U18 club captain Jeff Beljour will get an opportunity to win the hearts of college scouts this weekend when he takes part in the Florida Kraze Krush (FKK) College ID Camp at the club’s facility in Orlando, Florida. The teenager initially caught the attention of scouts who visited Providenciales last year, hence the opportunity. According to a release from the TCIFA: “The camp, which is geared at identifying potential players for college scholarships, is very intensive and involves college coaches from all over the United States.” During the camp the selected players will undergo rigorous training sessions; they will also be assigned to various teams for competitive games, where they will be assessed by the visiting coaches for possible scholarships.

Spartans suffer back-to-back defeats rebounds and four steals while Devon Williams and Trevent Williams (also seven rebounds) added 17 points each. In the other clash on Wednesday night the Predators edged out the Sonics 64-62 in a thriller. John Mesies almost finished with a triple double (21 points, 10 steals and eight rebounds). Mervin Forbes and Roger Martinez added 10 points each. The scoring pair: Galvin Hall Jr. and Daryl Francois led the Sonics with 25 points and nine rebounds and 22 points and three rebounds respectively. On Saturday night the Kings, who stopped the unbeaten run of the Harbour Ballers the week before had to deal with the feisty Spartans and they were able to continue their form.

The 94-89 points win was led by Randy Rigby and Lofton Seymour. Rigby scored 26 points, while Seymour added 22 points, four assists and four steals. Reco Forbes finished with a game high 27 points, nine rebounds and two blocks, while Hall finished with 20 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Sonics were also defeated on Saturday night. Francois scored 30 points to go with eight steals and four assists, while Hall added 17 points and four boards, but their team went down to the Hustlers 78-91. Kirk Adams was one shy of a triple double after scoring 30 points, grabbing 10 rebounds and nine assists for the winners, his teammate, new comer David Campbell chipped in with 15 points.

The central defender Beljour is very good at reading the game; he is also equipped with remarkable pace and unique ranges with his passing. He has spent a total of seven years in the Academy of Excellence programme. President of the TCIFA, Sonia Bien-Aime said she is happy with the opportunity. “We are very happy to know that another talent from our Academy of Excellence is being given the opportunity to prove his potential beyond our shores. This is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the coaches and players in the programme. As President of the TCIFA, I am very heartened at the prospects of these young people; as it not only argues well for football in the Turks and Caicos Islands and across the region, but for the development of the sport worldwide”.

February 27 - March 4, 2016

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LeVin takes part in historic 101 miles kiteboarding for charity event TCI’s best kiteboarder Hope LeVin took her career to new heights when she competed in a gruelling unchartered 101 miles journey from Little Cayman to Grand Cayman on Sunday last. The 22-year-old was the youngest of 10 persons to make the historic eight-and-a-half hour trip, which ended up raising $138,000 (the largest fundraising amount event) for the Cayman Islands Cancer Society. “It was a very difficult and challenging crossing. The winds were very light which meant we had to be constantly flying our kites to create power, which was very tiring.

In the last twenty or thirty miles I was mentally ready to be done and had to distract myself by eating some bars and listening to music on my waterproof iPod,” Hope disclosed afterwards to the Weekly News. The distance between the two islands is 81 miles, but it was directly downwind, so the kiteboarders had to navigate around, which resulted in them adding the extra 20 miles. The Provo resident, who started competitive kiteboarding in 2013, said that the idea of raising that kind of money for charity could propel her to compete in the event again. “It’s a bit too soon to say for sure

TCI’s ace kiteboarder Hope LeVin took part in the most challenging event of her life.

if I’d do it again, but I think so! It’s been a few days and I’m finally starting to feel better! The crossing raised over $138,000 for the Cayman Island Cancer Society, so to raise that again would totally make it worth crossing next year.”

Hope is no stranger to long journeys, last year she did 84 miles from South Caicos to Providenciales (navigating around the direct line due to external factors), but she still considers it a lot less taxing than Sunday’s trip. “Even though the mileage is

quite similar, the Cayman Crossing was completely next level. We were crossing open ocean with deep swells and the wind was super light.” Hope is currently in Barbados for a photo shoot and the Beach Culture World Tour.

Fedlor Sormera led the Eagles with 30 points.

HUGH CAMPBELL BASKETBALL CLASSIC:

CHHS Eagles win opener after Sormera explodes from field

Woodens Corvil is improving in his weak events.

Corvil confident of another medal at CARIFTA Games LAST year’s lone medallist Woodens Corvil is confident that he can medal again if he competes in next month’s CARIFTA Games in Grenada. Although the team has not been selected as yet, Corvil’s timing and current form almost assures him of a place in the side. Adding to that he is competing in the hardest event—the Octathlon. The 18-year-old, who finished with a bronze in St. Kitts and Nevis

in 2015, recorded two personal bests in his “weak events” last weekend while competing for Jamaica College at the Isaac Henry Invitational. The humble teen, threw the javelin 46.01M for a second place finish and recorded 15.85s in the 110M hurdles (third place). His previous best in the throwing event was 43M which he attained in CARIFTA 2014, while in CARIFTA

2015 he clocked 16.2s in the 110 hurdles. In CARIFTA 2015 Corvil’s best throw was 32M since he suffered from a shoulder injury. The multi-event specialist finished second in his 400M heat with a time of 51.76s over the weekend. Along with CARIFTA, the youngster is also preparing for Champs and the World Juniors.

– Lose second game FEDLOR Sormera led the Clement Howell Eagles to an opening victory in the Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic on Wednesday afternoon in the Bahamas. It was the visiting team’s second win in the tournament’s history. The forward/centre Sormera led the Providenciales school to a 54-46 point win over Hope Academy after shooting 66.7% from the field and 60% from the free throw line for a whopping 30 points.

Small forward Randy Jean-Guy supported with 13 points. CHHS enjoyed a small lead for most of the game. On Thursday the Eagles went down to the strong CI Gibson Rattlers 15-62 in their second game. Sormera, who plays for the Nazarene Kings in the PABA Night League, scored eight points and pulled down 11 rebounds, while Ralph Victor finished with three points and six boards.

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February 27 - March 4, 2016

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February 27 - March 4, 2016

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February 27 - March 4, 2016