Weekly News Volume 35 | No. 11 | March 16-22, 2021
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CONSULATES UNDER REVIEW
The TCI’s Haitian and Dominican consulates will be heavily scrutinised in the coming months, as the Government works to address the influx of illegal sloops into the territory.
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Selection of new reserve marines got underway last week in Providenciales (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)
HAITIAN COMMUNITY HAS LOWEST UPTAKE FOR COVID-19 VACCINE
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Selection process for TCI Regiment underway
MITCHELL’S TCI BAR APPLICATION FACES OBJECTION IN COURT
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TCI CONTINUES TO TOP CARIBBEAN FOR US TRAVELLERS, SAYS INSURANCE SUPPLIER
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
March 16-22, 2021
March 16-22, 2021
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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Haitian community has lowest uptake for Covid-19 vaccine BY OLIVIA ROSE Governor Nigel Dakin urged Haitian residents to get the Covid-19 vaccine this week after revealing that the Haitian community in the TCI has the lowest uptake rate. The governor and InterHealth Canada CEO Dr Denise Braithwaite spoke about the vaccine on a radio call-in show on Haitian station Hope Radio TCI on Thursday, March 11. The duo answered a number of questions while clearing up some misinformation during the two-hour show which was live streamed on the station’s Facebook page. Broadcaster Joseph Vixaille hosted the programme, which amassed some 3,700 views, and translated questions and answers between the guests and callers. Governor Nigel Dakin explained that the Haitian community has the lowest uptake for the vaccine in the territory, hence the need for more targeted public awareness. “If you’ve decided that you’re not going to be vaccinated, you’re part of the reason why we’re still wearing masks, why we still have curfew, why we still have reduced numbers in churches. You’ve become part of the problem,” he said.
“And it won’t take long for society to become quite intolerant of those people that are holding the society back because they won’t be vaccinated. “And I’m being very frank with you, we don’t want the Haitian community being that group and at the moment the Haitian community is the group that is least likely to take the vaccine.” Dakin said it is critical for every community in the TCI to embrace the vaccine as the Government works to restore a normal society. He said: “We need to get ourselves to a position of over 80 percent of adults vaccinated on the Islands. “That will bring huge benefits in terms of personal health, reduction of pressure on hospitals, economic recovery as we become one of the world’s safest destinations and also significant changes to the health regulations.” VACCINE COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE The governor said there is very strong global evidence that the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine dramatically reduces hospital admissions and death. He said: “The vaccine also appears to significantly reduce transmission - that was not what it was designed to do but that is the impact it is seemingly having.”
Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Bird - News Editor (At Large) Olivia Rose - Senior Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1 Instagram: @tcweeklynews1
Governor Nigel Dakin, Dr Denise Braithwaite, chief executive officer at InterHealth Canada, and host Joseph Vixaille (Screenshots/ TCI Health and Advocacy)
During the interview, a caller asked why people should take the vaccine if it will not prevent them from getting Covid-19. In response, Dr Braithwaite explained that the vaccine was made to prevent untimely Covid-19 deaths. “The main reason why they made the vaccine is to prevent someone from dying – that’s the number one reason,” she said. “By taking this vaccine the goal is to prevent you from getting severe disease and dying. “What we are discovering is, this vaccine seems to also prevent you from transmitting the virus, but we are gathering more and more data. “But the number one reason is saving your life. That if you catch Covid-19 disease you don’t end up in the hospital, you don’t end up on the ventilator.” Dr Braithwaite stressed that while some people may experience mild symptoms after contracting the virus others are not that lucky. “Yes, the majority of people go into quarantine and they do well but there are people who do not
do well and the ambulance has to rush them out of quarantine to the emergency room. “We have to apply high amounts of oxygen to them and for some of them we’ve had to put them on a ventilator for more than a week to try and save their lives.” Governor Nigel Dakin who lost his father earlier this year to Covid-19 underscored the importance of the vaccine. “To make this real, if my father had had the vaccine he would’ve got Covid-19 but he would not have died. “If police officer Cedric had had the vaccine he would’ve got Covid-19 but he would not have died. This is a life-saving vaccine.” Another caller asked the governor about the need to take a Covid-19 test when travelling to another country after being vaccinated in the TCI. Governor Dakin said that talks are ongoing internationally about this aspect. “At the moment thinking is happening globally about whether there is utility about having a Covid passport to allow travel. That’s yet
to be decided.” He said that some countries are already adopting a no test policy if travellers have been vaccinated. “… once, for example, America decides this then the world is going to decide it, so we’re monitoring this very closely.” Concerns were also raised about the need to continue wearing masks after taking the vaccine. Dr Braithwaite said: “The reason why you’re still wearing the mask is not because you’re afraid of getting Covid-19 and getting very ill; you’re wearing the mask because you may potentially get the virus and transmit it to someone who hasn’t been vaccinated who may get very ill and end up in the hospital. So, you’re wearing it to protect the other person. “That is why we all need to get vaccinated to be protected and live freely and our children can go back to school instead of being locked up in the house...we want to get rid of the mask and socialize more than 30 percent. We want to get back to where we were before.”
March 16-22, 2021
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Gov’t to scrutinise Haitian and Dominican consulates BY OLIVIA ROSE The TCI’s Haitian and Dominican consulates will be heavily scrutinised in the coming months, as the Government works to address the influx of illegal sloops into the territory. The new Progressive National Party (PNP) Government is wasting little time in tackling illegal trafficking and poaching, which has to date cost the territory millions of dollars. Hon. Arlington Alexander Musgrove, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services spoke on Radio Turks and Caicos (RTC) on Monday, March 8. He said his Government will be working on all fronts to deal with illegal immigration and poaching, starting with a review of consulates in the territory. The minister’s remarks came just days after 18 illegal Haitian migrants were apprehended when an illegal sloop made landfall on Long Bay on March 6. And on March 5 an abandoned blue wooden boat was found onshore at Malcolm’s Road Beach after it was spotted by the radar team off the west coast of Providenciales. Musgrove said: “This increase
in illegal activities from our neighbours to the south, including illegal poaching and immigration, has forced us to take a serious look at the presence of the consular offices to the TCI to determine if its presence here is helping or hurting us. “If it is proving the latter, we will take the necessary steps to enhance the national security of our people, residents and visitors alike here in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” he added. Musgrove said the Government is looking at both the Haitian and Dominican consulates as well as others “because if you are not helping us, you are hurting us”. “We will take all necessary steps to protect the Turks and Caicos Islands, our citizens, residents and visitors alike to our shores. “This is a continuous problem; however, if they didn’t know before, I am putting them on notice now.” In April 2019, as leader of the Opposition, Hon. Washington Misick spoke out after 15 Haitians died when a boat packed with migrants sank off the coast of the territory. He implied that the Haitian consulate had played a role in the illegal immigration of Haitians into the TCI. He said the consulate was not
Murder suspect jailed for breach of bail Myrohn Pereira, who is charged with the August 5, 2020, murder of Mathew Florez, has been remanded to Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk. He will remain there until December 6 for breaching bail conditions imposed by the court, the police press office said on Wednesday, March 10. Pereira, aged 22 at the time of his arrest, and Shaquant Walkin, who was 24, are accused of killing 39-year-old Florida-born Florez. He was shot dead in a drive-by near Thomas Stubbs roundabout on Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Police were informed of the shooting at about 11.19pm. They were told that masked men driving a dark vehicle approached two men changing a tyre and opened fire.
Nikira John from TCI Hospital told the Weekly News that the gunshot victim “never made it to the hospital”. Walkin and Pereira were charged on November 17 with murder, discharging firearm, discharging ammunition, possession of firearm with intent to endanger life and carrying firearm. At the time Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting said: “While we have charged two men, we still need the public for any relevant information they may have. “If you can help our investigation, we are asking that you please come forward.” Anyone with information can contact police on 911 or Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1-8008477.
doing enough at the time to stem the illegal entry of Haitians, and he questioned the consulate’s true motive in the territory. “One has to ask the question what purpose does the Haitian consulate serve in these Islands?” he said. “Whether they are a beacon of hope of light that says to the persons who want to escape that this is a safe haven to come to, or whether they potentially are in collusion with the perpetrators of these vicious crime of human trafficking.” The Consulate of the Republic of Haiti is located on Leeward Highway, Providenciales, and provides a range of documents and other consular services. The Weekly News attempted to contact the Haitian consulate for a comment but was unsuccessful up to press time. In his radio interview Musgrove added that the Government is aware that people in the territory are enabling the trafficking of people. “We know that there are persons living among us here in the Turks and Caicos Islands who are aiding and abetting in this area of illegal immigration.
Hon. Arlington Alexander Musgrove, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services (Progressive National Party/Facebook)
“Let me be very clear we will find you and we will prosecute all members of this criminal ring to the fullest extent of the law.” He warned anyone who hires illegal aliens that they too will be caught and prosecuted. “In addition, we are currently reviewing our laws to impose stiffer penalties for persons
engaged in illegal practices here in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” the minister said. Tips on illegal landings can be submitted anonymously in English, French or Spanish to www. crimestoppers.tc or Facebook Crimestoppers Turks and Caicos. Crimestoppers tips are received in the USA.
Night time curfew extended to April 2 The curfew on all islands remains at 11pm to 5am, the minister of health announced on Monday, March 15, with all businesses still having to close at 10pm. During an evening press conference, Hon. E Jay Saunders, Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services, said Cabinet approved an extension to the Covid-19 regulations. The curfew which began on Wednesday, March 3, will continue until 5am on April 2, when it will be reviewed. Bars and restaurants are limited to 30 percent capacity both indoors and outdoors and no congregating is allowed at the bar counter. Log books must be kept until August. Pleasure crafts that can hold
ten or more people are allowed up to 30 percent capacity and those that can hold under ten can have up to six people on board. Boat parties are banned. No more than 20 people are allowed outdoors at religious functions such as church services, weddings and funerals. Places of worship are allowed up to 30 percent capacity. The complete ban on private, public, sporting and social gatherings of any description, including beaches, is also extended to April 2. Cruise ships are also banned until August. The minister added that penalties will be increased for businesses that are found by police or health officials not to be complying with the rules. First time offenders will pay a
fine, second time offenders will pay a fine and have to close their business for eight days and third time offenders must pay a fine and close their business for 15 days. “We don’t want to fine anyone,” Saunders said, “but we can’t have one bad actor hurting the country. “Our goal is to have the economy open up as soon as possible so we can have everybody back to work, students back to school. “We can’t have one or two businesses not following the rules and costing the whole country to go back. I’m encouraging you, I’m begging you to make sure you comply.” For the latest information from the Ministry of Health visit www.gov.tc/moh/coronavirus/
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March 16-22, 2021
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
THE PREMIER’S FIRST THREE WEEKS It has been three weeks since Premier Washington Misick took control of the Government, announcing that “this term is for the people”. He has already introduced a number of initiatives and made several promises aimed at benefiting the people of the TCI. What are your thoughts so far?
Lost money
While I wish Premier Misick and his Government every success, it is indeed distressing to see them start by writing off over $12 million in uncollected NHIP premiums. Before anyone considers this a good thing, let’s look at the facts and the history of this kind of action. First, the NHIP is pretty much bankrupt, and has been cutting back on overseas treatment of patients who cannot be adequately treated here. How big a benefit would it be to the people of this country if those $12 million were actually accessible to NHIP. Second, this country has a history of forgiving unpaid amounts due in respect of NHIP premiums, NIB premiums and restaurant taxes, and all this practice does is encourage others to duck their legitimate responsibilities and wait for the next amnesty. Finally let’s remember that half of the principal amount of these unpaid NHIP premiums was effectively ‘stolen’ from the workers of this country by being deducted from their wages and pocketed by their employer. It is well past time that the NHIP, NIB and the Revenue Department that administers the restaurant tax programme tightened up their enforcement procedures and went after delinquent remittances as soon as they are overdue, so that the legitimate revenues can be collected and the absurd level of latepayment penalties discontinued before they reach the point at which they pose a huge disincentive to payment.
Collaboration needed
Honourable Charles Washington Misick and the current administration is off to a great start. We have to remember in order for any government to succeed, we all have to do our part to ensure that we not only vote but work to achieve the goals articulated in their mandate. We need collaboration with businesses, parents, pastors, the TCI Bar Association, the governor, law enforcement, teachers, civil servants, the Chamber of Commerce, members of parliament, residents and Turks and Caicos Islanders alike, in order to make this the best little country in the world.
A country at peace
Yes, it has been three weeks since the new premier, a former chief minister, took the reins of Government, announcing that “this term is for the people”. It is so tempting that one may call this premier’s tenure, in political irony, the second term of JAGS McCartney. The country is at peace. Former premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson relinquished the mantle of the office of leader of the PDM party and graciously wished the new premier and his Government the best. There is peace in the TCI. Elected with support of old guard PDMs like former chief minister Oswald Skippings, political support from old-guard PDM supporters, with former PDM national chairman Shaun Malcolm in the ranks, the only thing that can come out of this
Government is unity. The TCI is united, it is time, at least for the sake of the people and the goal of empowerment to stay united. Sentiments, taken from local colloquialism and folklore like, ‘If you een throw no hand you een get no draw’ must be out of the window. Old thinking like that really set these Islands back.
Nail in the coffin
The stimulus moneys to all Turks and Caicos Islanders is a great start. The application process was easy and straightforward. This is a departure from the previous administration that paid out millions to work permit holders which of course was one of its nails in the proverbial coffin during elections.
In the family
Washy is between a rock and a hard place. His brother is under indictment - blood is thicker than water and ever thicker than a tough indictment. How, in all human terms, does he separate his leadership position from his brother’s dilemma?
Can only do good
It is been some 45 years since the father of the TCI nation, the Rt Hon JAGS McCartney was chief minister in 1976 and preached a message of unity, oneness, togetherness, one Turks and Caicos Islands, one people, one community and one nation under God. All premiers and chief ministers have since preached the same message but it is
time to be real. Over 45 years, the Islands departed from this vision, as a result fell behind and into disunity. Today the TCI Constitution posits the mantra of a Christian nation with Christian values. A child of the JAGS generation, a young man in 1976, the Hon. Washington Misick more than anything else seems to have come of age and is heralding these same onenation sentiments, aspirations and goals. Most people hearing the words “this term is for the people”, believe it, and sense a high degree of sincerity and a commitment to keep this country united. Believe it or not, with a 14 to one electoral victory, the absence of cries of cheating from the Opposition, a lopsided election win, the country is united behind this premier and his one nation agenda to empower the people. There is that element of seriousness where the new administration has already written off National Health Insurance and NIB penalties. These are signs of good faith to a people in critical need of relief. With so much power, so much trust they can only do good.
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
March 16-22, 2021
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Mitchell’s TCI Bar application faces objection in court BY DELANA ISLES
SIPT Prosecutor, Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell has applied for admission to the TCI Bar (LinkedIn)
Three appear in court for serious offences Three men accused of serious offences appeared in court this month, after being arrested and charged by officers of the Royal TCI Police Force. On Wednesday, March 10, the police press office released the names, ages and charges of the defendants. Brandon Rahming, 31, was charged with carrying ammunition, two counts of possession of crack and powdered cocaine, and two counts of possession of the drugs with intent to supply. On March 3, officers of the Serious Crimes Unit were conducting inquiries in the Bight, Providenciales, when they noticed suspicious activity by a young man. They conducted a stop and search on Rahming and found a package containing a quantity of live ammunition, crack, powdered cocaine and cash. The items were seized for investigation. He appeared in the Providenciales Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, March 10, and is currently remanded in custody until May 7 when he will attend a sufficiency hearing. Avardo Peon, 25, was charged with burglary in relation to an incident reported on February 18, in Kew Town,
Providenciales, the police press office said. Peon was charged on February 26, and appeared in Providenciales Magistrates’ Court on March 9 where he pleaded not guilty and was given a self-signed $5,000 bail. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 1 to be further dealt with. Rossney Altidor, 19, was charged with robbery in relation to an incident that occurred on Black Crow Road in Kew Town, Providenciales, on February 25. He appeared in Providenciales Magistrates’ Court on March 2. He remains in custody. Head of Crime and Public Protection, Superintendent Lisa Mitcheson, said: “Officers in CID and the Serious Crime Investigation Unit work tirelessly with our colleagues across the Royal TCI Police Force to apprehend these offenders.” She added: “We will stop at nothing to identify those of you responsible for committing crimes and bring you to justice.” Anyone with information on any of these alleged offences can contact police on 911 or Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1-800-8477.
Over a year later, arguments are still swelling over SIPT prosecutor, Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell’s full admission to the local bar. On Tuesday, March 9, the matter came up for a hearing before Madam Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang. Mitchell - who heads the corruption trial of ex-premier Michael Misick and others - was represented at that hearing by Stephen Wilson QC. Many members of the Bar Council have strongly objected to Mitchell’s application. The body was represented at the hearing by the Bahamian attorney Raynard Rigby. At the end of last week’s hearing, the chief justice reserved her ruling, and no date has been given for a decision on the prosecutor’s application. Mitchell’s application for full admission was first submitted on December 20, 2019, and has been fully supported by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Eugene Otuonye QC, and by affidavit by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Angela Brooks.
It has been the argument that Mitchell has met all of the requirements to be fully admitted to the local bar on a full time basis. Members of the Bar Council have since made staunch objections to the application, many of which were presented before the court last week by Rigby. In his submissions before the court, attorney Raynard Rigby - on behalf of the Bar Council - indicated that the council’s objections to Mitchell’s admission are not personal, rather, they are in line with the provisions of the Legal Professions Ordinance. In an official release on December 20, 2019, the DPP had indicated that since he was first instructed in the SIPT Trial in August 2010, Mitchell has been under the tutelage of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions since the enforced break in the SIPT trial in the early summer 2019. “He has been under the supervision of the Deputy Director of Public Prosecution, Mrs Angela Brooks and my general supervision as the Director of the Public Prosecutions,” it read. “He has also closely engaged with ODPP’s attorneys, none of
whom is less than two years post call.” Otuonye had pointed out that Mitchell has completed the period of three months training within the meaning of section 5 (2) (a) of the Legal Professional Ordinance. The Bar Council is calling into question the manner in which the SIPT prosecutor received the above-mentioned training. Mitchell’s application for full access to the local bar follows that of Queen’s Counsel David Phillips, a British attorney, who headed the TCI’s civil recovery trial and out of court efforts to regain money from alleged corrupt individuals. Phillips’ application for full access - which was supported by law firm Karam Missick - saw robust objections by the TCI Bar Council. In her decision on the application, then chief justice, Margaret Ramsay-Hale in her judgement had found that Phillips satisfied all requirements for full admission and his application was granted. Phillips is now associated with TCI law firm Wessex Fairchild Attorneys.
Senior citizens can get vaccinated at home this week Elderly residents are being urged to book an appointment to get vaccinated from Covid-19 either in their home or in a local clinic. The Ministry of Health this week issued several notices encouraging senior citizens to take up the free vaccination in order to protect themselves from the virus. At home immunisation is available in North Caicos on Wednesday, March 17, and in South Caicos on Saturday, March 20. Providenciales and Grand Turk at home immunisations took place on Monday and Tuesday. “You may consult with your primary care provider beforehand, however a physician will join the outreach team to certify that individuals are able
to be vaccinated,” a press release said. Those that are able to, are invited to visit the primary healthcare
clinics on their respective island for their injection, brining photo identification and their portal registration number. Residents can register online at https://covidvaccineregistration. gov.tc/ or those in Providenciales can also register in person at IGA. Alternatively call the primary healthcare clinics in Grand Turk on 338-5462, South Caicos on 2323216, Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, on 232-6145, Bottle Creek, North Caicos on 347-2126 or Kew, North Caicos, on 342-6860. Registrants in Providenciales can visit the primary healthcare clinic at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre between 8.30am and 3.30pm on Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and on Wednesday between the hours of 2pm and 4pm.
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March 16-22, 2021
Surveillance radars coming for Long Bay and North West Point BY OLIVIA ROSE The Government is in the process of procuring two additional longrange surveillance radars to help tackle illegal entry to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The radar systems, when installed, will provide enhanced detection to allow sloops to be intercepted as well as being a visible deterrent to further illegal activity. This was revealed by Hon. Arlington Alexander Musgrove, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services, on Radio Turks and Caicos on March 8. He explained that the systems will be installed at North West Point and Long Bay in Providenciales, areas that are becoming frequent entry points for illegal immigrants. “We have noticed that the area of Long Bay and North West Point have been the target areas for those who think that they can avoid the radar that we have in South Dock,” he said. The minister’s remarks came just days after 18 illegal Haitian migrants were apprehended when an illegal sloop made landfall on Long Bay on March 6. And on March 5 an abandoned
An illegal vessel was abandoned on Malcolm’s Beach earlier this month (Royal TCI Police Force)
blue wooden boat was found onshore at Malcolm’s Road Beach after it was spotted by the radar team off the west coast of Providenciales. The territory’s border security received a major boost with the official opening of its $2.84 million coastal radar station back in 2012. The South Dock location was chosen due to its proximity to the waters around West Caicos and French Cay, the busiest waterways around the Islands. The radar is used to help the TCI authorities better tackle illegal immigration, the smuggling of goods, and transhipment of drugs, weapons and people trafficking. The system has been designed for a maritime environment and provides a cost-effective contribution to securing the territory’s borders, boosting the work of immigration and customs officials, the Royal TCI Police Force marine unit and maritime patrol aircraft. It uses short pulse, dual band, X-band frequencies to detect and track a variety of marine objects in all weather conditions. Musgrove said a number of other stringent enforcement measures to curb the influx of illegal vessels into the Islands are being enforced.
Governor appoints Fortis CEO as member of Public Accounts Committee Governor Nigel Dakin has appointed his chosen member of the Public Accounts Committee – FortisTCI CEO Ruth Forbes – who will serve for the next four years. The body’s role is to retrospectively review public sector expenditure and hold the Government of the day to account for that expenditure. It joins the Appropriations Committee as one of the two most powerful standing committees in the House of Assembly. Section 122(1) of the TCI Constitution sets out that the committee, which will look closely at reports from the auditor general, is chaired by the Opposition. Based on the current composition of the House, it is likely to have two members from the Government and two expert members - one appointed by the governor and one by the speaker. In a press release on Monday, March 15, Governor Dakin said Forbes will serve the TCI well as
an expert member of the Public Accounts Committee. He said she will bring the skills she learned in the accounting and private business sector into a key committee in the House of Assembly. “Ruth’s appointment completes the three appointments I make to support the work of the legislature,” he wrote. “Along with Harold Charles and Willin Belliard, I believe this appointment brings a full range of diverse expertise, skill and background into the House and I’m confident all three will make important contributions to these Islands’ future. I wish all three well.” Forbes has a Diploma in Business Administration (Honours) from University of Technology, Kingston, Jamaica and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Barry University, Florida, USA. She completed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
examinations in 2003 and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) in 2014. Prior to joining FortisTCI in 2006, she served as senior auditor at PriceWaterhouseCoopers in Providenciales. At FortisTCI, Forbes served as company secretary, chief financial officer, senior vice president of corporate services, and was appointed as president and CEO in August 2020. She stands as one of the few female CEOs in the utility sector serving the Caribbean region. Forbes currently serves as a director on the board of Fortis Ontario, a sister utility of FortisTCI. She is a former director of the TCI Airports Authority board and the TCI National Insurance Board. She is also a philanthropist and founder of ‘Jewels Ablaze’, a not-for-profit organisation geared at mentoring, developing and supporting young women.
Ruth Forbes, governor’s appointed member to the Public Accounts Committee (Nigel Dakin)
March 16-22, 2021
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TCI continues to top Caribbean for US travellers, says insurance supplier BY DELANA ISLES The Turks and Caicos Islands continues to be the destination of choice for Americans travellers, according to a new report from insurance aggregator Squaremouth. According to the company’s latest statistics, the TCI has seen more year over year growth in tourists who have bought travel insurance from the firm than any other destination in the world. The rise in travel to island destinations proves US residents are still willing to leave the country amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the company said in an online press release on March 5. The TCI has seen year-overyear growth of 536 percent on the company’s platform, followed by the US Virgin Islands at 137 percent. Squaremouth lead data analyst Steven Benna said the countries that have remained open throughout the pandemic have seen a significant surge in travel. This includes countries that have never been among the company’s most popular destinations for US travellers, such as the Turks and Caicos Islands and the US Virgin Islands. This is part of a broader surge for the Caribbean, the company said. More than 20 percent of travellers using Squaremouth are
The destinations that the insurance company’s customers are heading to (Squaremouth)
going to the Caribbean, nearly double the pre-pandemic rate. Squaremouth said its data was the result of examining thousands of travel insurance policies purchased pre and post-pandemic. The full report can be read at www.squaremouth.com/ press-room/where-travelers-areheading-2021 This surge in travel to the TCI continues despite warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that the territory
has a high rate of Covid-19. At time of press, active cases of Covid-19 in the Turks and Caicos Islands stood at 117, with five hospitalisations and 15 deaths. During a press conference on Monday, March 15, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders, was asked how the Government intends to address the CDC’s high rating. He said that while the Government has not directly lobbied the US organisation, his
team is working to increase testing in communities to get the rate of infection down to three percent. “This Government hasn’t started lobbying them [CDC], what we did is we looked at the requirements and we said we will meet the requirements. “Meeting the requirements means getting down to three percent positive cases based on our testing and we know the only way we can do that is to vaccinate more persons and do more community testing.”
This, he said, would in turn reflect better in terms of the steps the territory is taking to control and manage the virus. He said that is the reason why they have gotten the rate down from 30 percent when they took office, to 19 percent now. “That’s the effort that my ministry is looking at - complying, the best way to lobby someone is to comply with the measures and we are going to comply with those measures.”
CABINET MEETING SUMMARY More staff for dialysis care, mobile clinics for Covid-19 vaccinations and the resumption of organised sports were all discussed at the third meeting of the new Cabinet this year. Governor Nigel Dakin chaired the meeting on Wednesday, March 10, at the Office of the Premier in Grand Turk. All members were present. AT THIS MEETING CABINET:
- Were updated on the state of the nation and discussed measures to further address and mitigate against any escalation of the coronavirus (Covid-19) including increased testing of frontline staff, administration of vaccines and a review of existing protocols. - Approved funding for the hire of additional staff at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales and consumables to increase the
provision of dialysis care for a period of 12 months in light of rise in demand during the Covid-19 pandemic. Members also discussed healthcare provision by InterHealth Canada more broadly. - Were informed on options for expanding the administration of the Covid-19 vaccine into the communities through the use of mobile clinics, vaccination drivethroughs and home vaccinations in the case of persons who cannot move. - Approved a phased approach for the resumption of organised sports within the TCI, beginning with a return to training for TCI Football Association and the Carifta teams (phase one) with effect from March 11. - Approved the drafting of a bill to vest ownership of TCIG sports and recreation facilities and parks in
the TCI Sports Commission for their management, preventative and corrective maintenance, control and development. - Approved the issuance of a revenue line for the TCI Sports Commission, allowing it to collect its own revenue. - Approved the removal of the Turks & Caicos Islands Status card issuance fee and waiving of replacement fee for a period of three months with effect from 11 March 2021. - Approved the implementation of a Fraud Policy document as a working document within the Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services coming into effect on April 1. - Approved final draft versions of the following documents for referral to the UK for final approval: a) An agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth
of the Bahamas and the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands for cooperation among certain law enforcement activities (the Shiprider Agreement). b) A Memorandum of Understanding on Technical Cooperation on Border Control between the Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands. - Were updated on parliamentary procedures and practices being adopted by the incoming government and elected members, and discussed new roles and responsibilities under consideration. - Were updated on the recent landfall of irregular migrants and discussed further work required to mitigate sloop arrivals and address the presence of other illegal persons currently in TCI.
10 NEWS OPINIONS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
March 16-22, 2021
Debt or climate change – the next major crisis The US and its allies have ramped up a myriad of debt, fighting World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In fact, Britain has only recently managed to pay off its World War II debts. Then came the terror attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York on September 11, 2001 – an assault that sparked the prolonged global war on terror, led by the US, and sending its national debt into the trillions. At the turn of the new century, deregulation in the financial industry created the 2008 global economic recession, halting businesses and coercing skyrocketing unemployment. Recently, the deadly coronavirus pandemic struck, forcing the closure across borders. This crisis has blown up a bubble and influenced the printing of money worldwide for quantitative easing - impelling interest rates at near zero percent, creating an inflationary nightmare. Seemingly, global governments’ cures were worse than the crisis itself. The dollar was impacted and from these events. So, I predict that the next big crisis will be the debt crisis. However, Bill Gates has a
BY D MARKIE SPRING D Markie Spring, a TCI resident of 15 years, is an expert in law enforcement. He worked as a detective in the Royal TCI Police Force and was director of security at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
contrarian view. In a recent CNN interview with the Global Public Square (GPS), hosted by Fareed Zackaria, Gates predicted that the next major upheaval will be the climate change crisis and convincingly so, he alluded to the facts. He said sea level rise caused by the rapid melting of ice glaciers will negatively impact marine life and their habitats, marshes, shorelines and wetlands. Too, he said, soaring daily temperatures and the existential threats from carbon emission into the atmosphere fuelled by deforestation and the burning of fossils will bring about drastic changes in weather conditions. However, I hope that neither of us is correct in our predictions, as both circumstances
would result in grave consequences on the environment and the sustenance of life on the planet. Either of these crises would certainly disrupt the global food supplies. A debt crisis will cripple the likelihood of producing and manufacturing foods on a large scale and especially, if the dollar crumbles, the TCI will find itself in a position where it cannot afford soaring prices on imported foods. Similarly, if the climate crisis debuts, scorching temperatures and prolonged periods of drought will destroy crops and sea levels will rise destroying ecosystems and depleting shoals of aquatic life needed for food. Increasing natural disaster events will have similar impacts.
Despite these realities, I’m adamant that climate change is not the next big crisis. These are my reasons. Around the world, scientists have devoted their chief energies to create mitigating strategies. Already, they exhibit unique abilities to engineer cirrus clouds to help trap direct sunlight from impacting humans, plants and livestock. They have the ability to used fine dust particles in the Earth’s atmosphere to help cool the climate from predominantly scattering shortwave radiation. Either way, the TCI must counter these foreseeable detriments. In a debt crisis, it must ensure economic growth and adequate funding to bridge the financial gap, set financial obligations to avoid the debt trap, and endeavour to lessen its carbon footprint in a climate change crisis situation. To encourage the food security initiative, we must start cultivating backyard crops, planting fruit trees, and raring livestock. We must plan ahead and get ready for the next major crisis.
An effective way to reach and communicate with others There are so many people in the church, the workplace and the community who feel that their concerns and issues are being ignored. I believe the most effective way to deal with people is to engage in a one to one conversation. This may not be ideal in a large place, as you may not be able to reach everyone in a reasonable timeframe, but I know it is very effective. Despite the size, leaders should still aim to conduct one to one conversations, even if takes several months. You see, during staff, church and community meetings, some people are intimidated and may not express how they feel and most times it is just a few people controlling the meetings with their opinions. Therefore, if we can reach people on a one to one basis and address their concerns, it can transform your church, workplace and community into a positive environment. The first thing you should do is schedule
BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR
Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.
a meeting on a one to one basis and give adequate time for the meeting as you don’t want the individuals to feel they are being rushed. Let them express their concerns and listen to them. Show them that you care by listening to them with a good eye contact. During the conversation, you may discover that there is some misunderstanding and so you should clear that misunderstanding immediately. If you know that you cannot address some of the concerns, be honest with
the individuals. In other words, do not overpromise when you know you cannot address the situations. This is also your opportunity as the interviewer to express how you feel too. Sometimes, managers do not really tell their subordinates how they feel and they use the general meeting to throw shade at others when in fact the issue may only apply to one person. After the meeting has ended, email the individual with a recap of the discussion and then do a follow up. Make sure you have
addressed some of the issues before you do the follow up. During the one to one meeting, find out simple things about your colleagues like the birthday of that person and give them a personal call on their birthday to wish them a happy birthday. There are many benefits of having a one to one meeting. It is more personal and people will feel significant to the organisation or community. They will feel that their opinions matter. Some people will speak more freely in a one to one setting and you may realise that there are issues in the organisation that you were unware of. One to one conversation will also increase trust especially if you do not disclose confidential information that your colleagues discussed with you. In conclusion, one to one conversation is the way to go. It is one of the most effective ways to communicate and build up confidence and morale in the work place.
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS 11
Crucial need to amend TCI Status Bill for TCI youth Many would admit that the 2015 Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance passed by the current administration is a step towards our nation not only embracing diversity but inclusivity as well. While the bill makes general provisions for TCI youth to become Turks and Caicos Islanders, there are changes that should be made to improve its practicability. Firstly, what needs to be reviewed is the stipulated fee of $5,000 once applications have been approved. This is an obstacle for many young people that have been born and/or raised in these Islands to immigrants, to legislatively assimilate into the Turks and Caicos Islander franchise. To obtain a wholistic perspective on the substantial fee placed on TCI youth, it is worth considering the citizenship fees for various British overseas territories throughout the region. British Virgin Islands: $125 Cayman Islands: $1,000 Bermuda: $315-$593 Anguilla: $500
BY LAWRENCE SAINTANGE Lawrence Saintange was born in Grand Turk to Haitian parents and raised in Five Cays, Providenciales. He attended Enid Capron Primary School and British West Indies Collegiate. Saintange is in his final year of an undergraduate accounting and finance programme at the University of Lincoln in the United Kingdom.
Turks and Caicos Islands: $5,000 The $5,000 fee is too high for TCI youth. Many of them are either in entry level jobs with low pay, in education or currently unemployed because of the ongoing pandemic. If the policy’s intention is to form a hallmark to allow applicants to fully integrate into our society, the $5,000 fee stands as a hindrance and exudes the impression that the youth are meant to ‘buy’ their way to becoming Turks and Caicos Islanders. The cost for citizenship fees throughout the world is traditionally derived from covering administration costs, not for profit.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION
Our law makers will potentially have to go back to the drawing board with this bill and consolidate counsel from social experts, technocrats and public consultations in the process. The process of formulating the requisites of becoming a Turks and Caicos Islander should be fair, equitable and transparent - a pathway to citizenship is a pillar of a democratic society. Therefore, it is imperative that one exists. Regarding the fees, law makers should match the current fee payable by the youth with the fee
for applicants applying through marriage ($1,500). As this would be a fairer amount for TCI youth to cover the costs of, as some have already bore the fees of permanent residency certificates ($10,000), freelance work permits ($1,000) or British overseas territory citizenship registration ($900). Furthermore, more comprehensive provisions should be made to cover sub-sections of our society. Specifically, for potential young Turks and Caicos Islanders that have been blossomed in our education and social systems. Additionally, the requirements for TCI Status can be tethered to the requirements for BOTC registration, which will give rise to a clearer path for drafting the necessary eligibility requirements for the youth. Historically, the current administration has been the more corrective administration as it relates to shortcomings with immigration related matters. It was under the current administration that child rights
laws were upheld in 2002, which resulted in hundreds of children returning to education after being unlawfully withdrawn. It was also under the current administration that this current pathway to citizenship was legislated. It is now time for the current administration to exercise their corrective acumen to amend or potentially redraft such an important policy. We are at a pivotal turning point in the development of our country. A turning point that requires us to be more united than we have ever been, a unity that inclusive policies can curate. Being able to vote, access scholarships, grants, restricted category business licences should be bestowed to early generation citizens as well, as the TCI is their home and where their hearts reside. Hundreds, desperately long for the day that becoming a Turks and Caicos Islander is not a privilege that they feel they must fight for, but an honour bestowed upon them for being a product of the TCI society.
Three armed robberies reported within ten minutes Three armed robberies were reported on Tuesday, March 9, within the space of ten minutes, according to the police press office. A press release the next day said no shots were fired or injuries received in any of the incidents. The first robbery was reported to the Police Control Room at 7.06pm. Two men armed with a gun had entered a convenience store on Bay Road in Blue Hills, Providenciales. According to the victim, the suspects demanded money and made off on foot with cash and cigarette wrappers. The second robbery, which was reported to the Police Control Room at 7.14pm, took
place on Millennium Highway, Providenciales. Two masked men robbed another man at gunpoint of three cell phones and a wallet containing cash and identification cards, before fleeing the scene on foot. The third robbery was reported to the Police Control Room at 7.16pm, the police press office said. Two men armed with a gun entered a convenience store in the South Back Salina district in Grand Turk and demanded money. The culprits left with an undisclosed amount of cash. Anyone with information on any of these incidents can contact police on 911 or Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1-800-8477.
Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick receives his first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine (Office of the Premier/Facebook)
Premier gets first vaccine against Covid-19 Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick received his first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine on Wednesday, March 10, just days before his birthday. “Do it for your own safety, the safety of your friends and family; for the safety of our country and
for the TCI economy,” the premier said on a post of his Facebook page. During a radio interview on Hope Radio TCI on Thursday, March 11, Governor Nigel Dakin the vaccine will bring huge benefits in terms of
personal health, reduction of pressure on hospitals and economic recovery. To register for a vaccine, residents can visit the Covid-19 vaccination registration portal at https://covidvaccineregistration. gov.tc/
12 NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
March 16-22, 2021
Covid-19 and the TCI – one year later cleaning and safely holding their loved ones.
BY DELANA ISLES One year ago, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the world was experiencing a pandemic brought on by the novel coronavirus SARSCoV-2. The virus, which causes the contagious disease Covid-19, has shown little sign of waning and has caused 120 million infections and 2.66 million deaths worldwide. Isolation, quarantine, social distancing, masking, community testing, and now vaccination have marked the past year. Led by the Sharlene Cartwright Robinson Government, the Turks and Caicos Islands rolled out its control measures early, before the first confirmed case was identified in the territory. One day after the WHO declared the novel coronavirus a global health concern on January 30, the TCI Government upped its preparedness plans. It allocated an initial $404,320 for the Ministry of Health to acquire additional equipment and protective gear, implement screening measures at all ports of entry, advise the population on proper hygiene, among a host of other measures. The first case of the virus was detected in Providenciales on March 23, 2020, sparking widespread fears and leading to a threeweek 24-hour lockdown from March 27. Airports and seaports closed,
FANTASTIC HEALTH TEAM
Life far removed from normal as Provo went into a three-week 24-hour lockdown 2020 non-essential businesses ceased operations, schools emptied, sporting events suspended, social gatherings were strictly prohibited, and life came to a screeching halt. The first death occurred on April 5. On May 12, all cases were declared resolved, but on June 20, new cases were discovered. In July, the TCI was hit with a second wave of infections, which lasted until mid-September. But
even amid this second wave, the territory reopened to visitors on July 22. From September to December cases stabilised, but in January this year a third wave hit. Cases steadily climbed - with the highest recorded numbers in February - deaths increased, and a new strain of the virus was detected. A year after its first confirmed case, the TCI, like many other
countries, is hoping for a sense of normality - now made attainable with the emergence of several vaccines against the virus. The year also saw the emergence of true heroes in the form of healthcare and other frontline workers. These essential workers were called on to put their lives on the line, as the masses huddled behind closed doors, sanitising, boosting their immunity holistically,
Health ministry releases Covid-19 March testing schedule All residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands can be tested for Covid-19 for free this March. The Ministry of Health has released its testing schedule and said people will be tested on a “first come first served” basis. In a press release on March 9, it urged people to arrive at the relevant location wearing a mask, keeping a six foot distance and carrying photo identification and a pen.
Testing will take place: Grand Turk - Every Tuesday, between 2pm and 4pm at the Gazebo (Pond Street). South Caicos - Every Tuesday between 9am and 12pm at the Primary Health Care Clinic. North and Middle Caicos Every Monday between 9am and 12pm at the Primary Health Care Clinic in Kew. Every Thursday between 9am and 12pm at the Primary Health
Care Clinic in Bottle Creek. Every Monday and Thursday between 9am and 12pm at the Middle Caicos Clinic. Providenciales - The mobile clinic will be parked at the National Stadium on Venetian Road on Tuesdays, at the roundabout by the SNAP Centre in Kew Town on Thursday, March 18, and at the basketball court in the Bight on Thursday, March 25 between 9am and
12pm. Anyone with symptoms or signs of Covid-19 should remain at home and instead call the Covid-19 Hotlines on 232-9444 or 333-0911 or 911 if symptoms are very serious. Signs and symptoms of Covid-19 can include fever, headache, dry cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint pain, loss of taste and loss of smell.
At a press conference on Monday, March 15, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders, commended the hard work of the healthcare providers of the TCI. “The Ministry of Health, InterHealth Canada has done an amazing job, a fantastic job in ensuring that we keep the numbers down. “Now we are not best in class, there are countries that have better numbers than us, but this team they have stretched, they’ve moved things around the board…to make sure that every resource that they have is available for persons who need to get it. “They are doing a fantastic job.” The health minister reflected on the balancing act the Government has to perform in balancing the health of the territory and the economy of the Islands. “As the Government, we need to put the policies in place to ensure that they can get the results that they want. “A lot of times, it’s a balancing act between going with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health and what we think is best for the economy. “Of course, they want us to take all the measures possible to get the numbers down to zero, but sometimes we have to look at the economy also. As politicians we try to find that balance…” He said while the TCI has come a long way, there is still a lot of work left to do. “In terms of where we’ve come… we’ve got a lot of work to do as a country, as a Government, but as a team…the health sector including the private practices who stepped up and got the vaccinations done so we can get those numbers up from the first batch and InterHealth Canada that sees the most serious cases, all of them have done a fantastic job and I thank them for doing that.” On Tuesday, March 23, the Ministry of Health will be hosting a special press meeting to look back on the steps taken, gains recorded and how much further the TCI still has to go, one year after the territory’s first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus was detected.
March 16-22, 2021
NEWS 13
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
THE SALT CAY NOTE
Fisherman Lionel Talbot, sporting a t-shirt that sums up much of the Salt Cay experience, ‘Sell your stuff. Keep the dog. Live on an island’
The donkeys of Salt Cay. Once ‘employed’ in the salt industry, they now roam freely to the delight of visitors
Captain Chadwick comes to town T
Salt Cay visitors and their stories - now and then
his column, according to our inhouse geek, is read in 43 different countries and territories. While that in itself is interesting to note, I was even more astonished to learn that our previous column, entitled, ‘In keeping with time and place. One day in 1973. Time travel - Salt Cay Style’, was the most widely read ever! Between the Weekly News website, the print copy and the Salt Cay Note website (www.saltcaynote.com) - 10,105 readers! “But why?” I hear you ask, and I am as baffled as you are to be honest. For yes, it was fun to read about an event in 1973 on this charmed little island, but I can think of a dozen other columns that I have found more intriguing to write - and to reread. As I thought about the astonishing appeal of that particular column an email arrived, sent via the Salt Cay Note’s comment section on our website. Written by a reader on the Indian subcontinent, it read as follows: “...the best article so far. Of course, the other articles were also very good but this one certainly captured my heart. “It did make me imagine what would be the scene in 1973. I was a two-yearold then! And I was thrilled with the picture where the crime rate was zero. “The article is written to perfection and with an imagination which made me travel with you back to 1973. To your amazing Salt Cay.” And then it clicked. Nostalgia. A longing for simpler, happier times. In that sense, Salt Cay ticks all the boxes. As I noted in another recent column about Salt Cay’s successful marketing campaign: “A success story that illustrates how a small island decided to attract new business through a very simple formula, namely by telling its story.” Telling the story; whether in the 1970s, or as recently as last week,
BY TITUS DE BOER
Titus de Boer was born in Hamburg and spent his formative years in the West Indies. After a formal education in Germany and subsequent training as a journalist, he moved to the TCI in 1989. Titus’ Salt Cay stories and photographs can be found on www.saltcaynote.com
Salt Cay appears never to leave the visitor unimpressed, or perhaps unimpacted is the better word. Writing on his Facebook page, a recent visitor from Provo who had come over from ‘The big city’ for a weekend of whale-watching and getting away from it all, said: “Salt Cay is a small island- only 2.6 square miles, with a large portion covered in salt pans. “With a residential population of about 68 people...the island truly feels forgotten by time. “This different atmosphere - at times barren, at others ravaged and ruined, and at still others indisputably quaint- was hauntingly beautiful and brought a sense of peace in a world gone wild. “I often felt myself mesmerised by the landscape and the stunning simplicity of the island.” In 1886, according to an article in the Baltimore Sun, another visitor made his way to Salt Cay. His name, Captain Chadwick, of the schooner Lizzie Wilson. “About two weeks ago I attended a novel
entertainment, having rather a grave object in view,” says the good captain as he recounts his visit to Salt Cay. “It was a bazaar held in the loft of a salt warehouse in Salt Cay, near Turks Island, having for its object the purchase of a hearse. “I contributed by my presence and cash, and after several days the bazaar closed with about $ 70 towards buying the vehicle.” Captain Chadwick then continues to describe the salt production on Salt Cay which, from a 21st century perspective is fascinating and reminds the reader, once again, how extensive an industry this truly was. “The manufacture of salt at Turks Island and Salt Cay, has much of interest to one who has never seen the process, which, by the way, is performed wholly by nature, the wind and the sun doing the work.” While I doubt that the labourers of the day would agree with this account, I think I know what the captain is trying to say. The year is after all,1886. After the process of the salt production is explained in great detail, the captain concludes with a snap shot of Salt Cay, of over 130 years ago. “Salt Cay belongs to Great Britain and has about 600 inhabitants...The manufacture of salt is the principal labour giving interest, but many maintain themselves making shellwork, some specimens of which are beautiful. “There are Baptist, Wesleyan, and Church of England churches on the cay. Cacti, eight feet high, grow on the cay, and is about the only vegetation to be seen.” All of these accounts, whether written in 1886, 1973, or indeed last week, make one thing perfectly clear; having once been to Salt Cay, there’s something about the place that doesn’t seem to let you go, and consequently one feels compelled to tell its story. Here’s to Salt Cay, its story and its visitors - now and then.
An article in the Baltimore Sun from 1886 describing life on Salt Cay.
14 NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Selection of new reserve marines got underway last week in Providenciales (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)
March 16-22, 2021
Ennis Grant, commanding officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)
Selection process for TCI Regiment underway BY DELANA ISLES Recruiters now have the gruelling task of selecting the best 40 out of 132 applicants to serve as reserve marines in the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment. Last week, officers commandeered Louise Garland Thomas Junior High School in Long Bay, Providenciales, to conduct training exercises, interviews and physical examinations. The exercise lasted from Tuesday to Friday, and this week, recruiters are in Grand Turk, stationed at HJ Robinson High School, as they whittle down applicants to last selections.
During a visit to the temporary training ground in Providenciales on Friday, March 12, the Weekly News was given a glimpse of the paces the prospective recruits were put through. Commanding Officer Ennis Grant was on hand for the regiment along with first reservist Major John Galleymore, officers Adrian Parker and Francis Glinton and other auxiliary personnel. From physical exercises, panel discussions with three interviewers, to written examinations, they all appeared focused and determined to show that they have what it takes to serve their nation. Commanding Officer Ennis
Grant spoke with the media about the process and what they are looking to achieve in the coming weeks. “We have several different disciplines that we are looking at. One is a leaderless task - the purpose of this exercise is to assess the candidates’ teamwork, their problem-solving skills and their communication. “We also have a behavioural assessment. We look for certain behavioural traits...we require a particular type of individual, we want somebody who is not too dominant, but has some type of cooperation skills because we depend a lot on teamwork.
“We also look at how the candidates conform to rules and regulations. We look for patience because we want you to… take time to work out solutions to problems. “In addition to the behavioural assessment we have an essay - we gave them a topic about something pertaining to the TCI and asked them to write an essay for an hour. “We also have an aptitude test, they have to answer over 25 questions over an hour.” And that is not the end of the gruelling examination process - there is also a swim test and a physical fitness test. Grant stated that over the
course of last week, they accessed 80 people who were from the shortlisted 122 applicants out of about 165 who applied. Ninety-two of those applications came from Providenciales, 30 from Grand Turk, one from South Caicos and two from North Caicos. A vast number of the applicants are under 30 years of age, with a few in their 40s up to 51 years old. Grant says the majority of applications were from TCI Islanders, Belongers with BOTC passports, those with British passports and TCI status cards. Most of the applicants were male but in the mix are about 10 female applicants. The commanding officer said that as long as an applicant has proven their Belonger status, irrespective of their country of origin, they are not being discriminated against. Grant said he is confident that the 40 people they need to make up the teeth of the regiment will be found in this round of applications. The regiment are hoping to start the training of the recruits during the summer months, starting July 19. When applicants are trained and ready to serve, they will be paid a stipend, which is the basic salary of a police officer. These 40 recruits are volunteers, as such, they can hold jobs outside of their marine duties. CO Grant explained how this will work: “The reserves will have their regular nine to five jobs and we have made some provisions in the law to allow the employers to release them.... once we know who the candidates are we will engage their employers to let them understand the role they will be playing.” Marines will be recognised by their military fatigues, adorned with a shoulder badge with a special symbol, CO Grant said. Once recruited they will be engaged in marine and border protection, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance.
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS 15
Bank donates $5,000 to charity to help fight cancer BY MAKAJAHA FORBES The TCI branch of regional bank CIBC First Caribbean donated $5,000 to the National Cancer Society (NCS) this week to help support cancer patients with their care. CIBC First Caribbean country manager Larry Lawrence presented a cheque to the society at the NCS headquarters in Graceway Plaza, Providenciales, on Wednesday, March 10. He explained that the funds were raised through the bank’s ‘Walk for the Cure 2020’ programme which last year took on a different structure. “Last year was different because of Covid-19,” Lawrence told the Weekly News before the cheque presentation. “Typically, we would have a major fundraising event where we employ corporate customers, where we employ members of the public in public displays such as a walk.” However, last year the bank instead held a virtual event that focused more on awareness than fundraising, and several employee
NCS vice president Terry Meneley and NCS president Veronica Rigby accept the cheque from CIBC First Caribbean country manager Larry Lawrence (Makajaha Forbes/TC Weekly News)
fundraising activities such as bake sales and a jeans day. Lawrence said despite the challenges created by Covid-19, the bank remains committed to
contributing towards the fight against cancer. “We think it’s the right charity and the right cause for use to support. The money goes towards
supporting persons who are afflicted with the disease, and educating members of the public.” NCS president Veronica Rigby and NCS vice president Terry
Meneley were on hand to accept the donation. Rigby thanked CIBC FirstCaribbean for its “generosity and support” and its continuous contributions to the society. “Your donations and contributions throughout the years have allowed the NCS to assist individuals throughout our communities who are affected by cancer,” she said. The funds will help the NCS to provide assistance, care and counselling to cancer patients and their families, and education and awareness campaigns across the TCI. Meneley told the Weekly News that the money will also go towards buying much needed equipment which cancer patients are not always access for themselves. “We have beds, walkers, wheelchairs, ventilators for breathing, you know, when people get sick.” The NCS is a nonprofit organisation based in Providenciales, which assists and supports people in the TCI that are fighting cancer.
Clement Howell High School wins inter-high debate Pupils from Clement Howell High School were given school supplies and Apple iPads after winning an inter-high school debate on the topic of HIV and Aids. The delayed 23rd Annual National Inter-High Debate Competition 2020 was held at Beaches Turks and Caicos on Friday, March 13. The event, hosted by the Health, Promotion and Advocacy Unit, was held under the theme ‘Global solidarity, shared responsibility’ for World HIV and Aids Day on December 1. The debate topic, ‘Be it resolved that shared responsibility is the best way to combat HIV/Aids in the Turks and Caicos Islands’. First place winners were Clement Howell High School, coming in second were Long Bay High School in Providenciales, and third were Marjorie Basden High School in South Caicos. Attending the event were Erwin Jay Saunders, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services, Rachel Taylor, Minister of
Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services, Director of Education Edgar Howell, staff of Education Department, teachers and students. Cheryl-Ann Forman, who introduced the debate on behalf of the Ministry of Health, said: “Individuals around the world and some here in the TCI have broken the silence and shone a light on discrimination, intolerance and stigma as it relates to this dreaded virus. “They have bought passion to the fight and their passion will certainly assist in making the end of Aids a reality.” She said everyone must be willing to change their behaviour in the fight against Aids. “We cannot deal with Aids by making moral judgements,” she said, “or refusing to face unpleasant facts. “We can only deal with it by speaking clearly and openly, both about the ways people become infected and about what they can do to avoid infection. “Let us remember that every
Clement Howell High School pupils receive their prizes from Minister of Health Hon. E Jay Saunders (Screenshot/RTC Station)
person that is infected, whatever the reason, is a fellow human being with human rights and human needs.” She said the student debate teams would provide “food for thought” and further highlight the facts and myths of HIV and Aids. “Opinions and points of view that will be enlightening, educational, informative and perhaps even humorous at times.” Health minister Erwin Jay Saunders spoke of his involvement in the fight against HIV and Aids
after his elder sister died from the virus many years ago. “As minister of health and me personally as E Jay Saunders, I don’t want to see anyone else dying,” he told attendees. He said everyone must follow best practices, share responsibility and offer emotional support to each other. Rachel Taylor said “I am so proud of our young people for participating in this debate, even while your learning was interrupted through the onset of a global public
health crisis. “You are acknowledging that the fight against HIV/Aids is not over and your participation in this debate is helping to keep HIV/Aids crisis in the forefront.” All students in the debate remained masked during their speeches and microphones were sanitised after each speaker. The debate was carried live on Radio Turks and Caicos and streamed live on the radio’s and Ministry of Health’s Facebook pages.
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March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
GARDENING
Sweet potatoes will grow from mid-spring to early winter (Medical News Today)
Kenneth Richardson with wife Brenda in happy times.
Past and present Premiers pay tribute to Bermuda’s first Black Cabinet Secretary KENNETH Richardson, the island’s first Black Cabinet Secretary who served in the role from 1984 to 1993, has died at 82. Mr Richardson, who had to step down as top civil servant for health reasons, was recalled by Sir John Swan, a former Premier, as “truly a gentleman and a statesman who embraced the better qualities of every human being”. Sir John said Mr Richardson played “a major role in the affairs of Bermuda, as he has in my own life”. Known for fairness and impartiality, Mr Richardson launched his career in public service as a secondary schoolteacher in 1964. He served in the Colonial Secretary’s Office before going abroad to complete postgraduate studies. While attending Howard University in Washington, DC, he met his future wife, Brenda. The couple, who married in 1966, had two children, Andrew and Tammy. Mr Richardson worked in the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, where he played a role in the resolution of several labour disputes between 1974 and 1983. Sir John said they had both attended Howard Academy, an influential school for black pupils on the island, and discovered they had “very similar ideas about life”. Sir John said he met Mr Richardson in Government in 1976 when he was appointed Minister of Immigration. He added: “I felt I had a person who understood and shared my desire to look after the affairs of Bermuda and the issues of labour which were cantankerous at the time. “We blended as a team with support from other civil servants and were able to move Bermuda to a transition of co-operation and a spirit of getting things done.” The two travelled to Washington
several times in the 1980s to seek the help of the Reagan Administration, and in particular its State and Treasury Departments, in implementing the US/Bermuda Tax Treaty. Sir John, who served as Premier from 1982 to 1995, said Mr Richardson was “my right hand man” while in office. “We prepared Bermuda for the 21st century both in infrastructure and programmes.” Mr Richardson struggled through operations for brain surgery after he fell ill with a brain tumour in 1988. His second bout of brain surgery left him unable to talk, and Mr Richardson underwent arduous physical therapy. His wife told The Royal Gazette in 1998: “What is so great about Ken is that he never lets himself get down. He just gets up and pushes on.” Sir John called him compassionate and fair. He added: “I have never seen Ken being unfair, angry or ill tempered.” Sir John said Mr Richardson went on to work in his company and became “truly a part of the Swan Group family”. “All of us at the company will need to take time to make an adjustment because no longer having his presence will have a major effect on us, as it will his family, relatives, and friends. “He shared something very special with all of us and he will remain an icon to Bermuda.” Sir John added: “We have not just lost a civil servant, not just a husband, father and grandfather, but a friend to many people.“ Today Premier David Burt also paid tribute, saying: “From the classroom at Howard Academy to the Cabinet Room, Mr Richardson was the same calming and professional presence. “He was the consummate public officer, possessed of a keen intellect and commitment to the development of sound policy to the benefit of all Bermudians.
Sweet, sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are nutritious sweet tubers under the ground, but also have beautiful foliage and flowers above the ground. They’re also a great choice for our TCI’s summers garden. You can grow them starting in mid-spring and the vines will flourish during the heat of summer while growing wonderful treats underground to harvest in the fall and early winter. To grow them, soil preparation is best done in advance, so that when the slips are brought to the garden they are ready to pop right into the ground. Work the soil loose down deep so the sweet potato tubers grow long and smooth. You’ll want to sink the ‘slip’ down far into the mound, but not so far that the bud (the vine stem) is covered by dirt. This is usually about six inches. Poke a hole in the mound, pour a little water into the hole, place the slip, then firm up the soil around it. It’s important that when you pick them up from the store you plant them as soon as possible. While sweet potato slips are pretty tough little things, they do need to quickly get to growing like they were born to do. You’ll get the best results planting right away, but even if they sit around and become slimy and stinky, they will still do fine if you get them in the ground. Delaying planting means it will just take them a little longer to get going. Young sweet potatoes are using every ounce of energy
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 denisbgarden@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page Nature Splendor.
to put up leaves. To keep them as nourished as possible, you’ll need to keep the area free of any other competition that would steal the precious nutrients they need. Ideal spacing is 10-18 inches between each slip as you plant. Once the vines are established, they are naturally multipurpose! They act as a natural mulch, shade the ground, and choke out the competition, while harbouring moisture the plants need to grow strong and healthy. Many folks find it helpful to mulch the space between rows/beds to help the leaves in their efforts to keep weeds from encroaching on the grow mounds. Sweet potatoes don’t require a tonne of water, in fact, they do their best work in soil that isn’t heavy with water. Lots of water can even encourage fungus, which any island gardener knows is an enormous problem for any garden plants. Try to avoid disturbing the vines as much as you can. They easily damage (even a strong wind can hurt them) and that can be an invitation for pests and disease to enter the plant and wreak havoc. There are two main types of sweet potato: dry-fleshed and moist-fleshed. The starchier, dry-fleshed types have a tan skin and light-coloured flesh ranging from almost white to a light yellow. Their texture is much more akin to baking potatoes. This is the one that is the most
common here and on a personal note, I’m not a big fan of this variety. I prefer the moist-fleshed sweet potatoes that have a dark, red-brown skin with orange to deep-orange flesh, perhaps because they are sweeter. Here is a different way to cook your sweet potatoes. HASSELBACK SWEDISH POTATOES Method • Preheat the oven to 425º. • Place lengthwise on a cutting board and use two wooden spoons lengthwise along the potato. • Using a knife, cut slices across the short side of the potato, about 1/8 inch apart. The wooden spoon will prevent your knife from cutting completely through the potato. The potato should remain connected at the bottom. Repeat with the remaining potatoes. • Place the potatoes cut side up in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sea salt, pepper and herbs of Provence. • But you can do this in many different ways, using butter instead, add cheese, bread crumbs, sour cream, bacon, etc. • I cook it for 45 minutes to an hour, and I add olive oil once during cooking.
March 16-22, 2021
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Jamaica first in Caribbean to receive COVID vaccines from COVAX Jamaica on Monday received 14,400 doses of COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX Facility, the first country in the Caribbean to benefit from the mechanism which has come in for strong criticism over its inability to meet commitments. A PAHO/WHO release said that the arrival marks a “historic step toward ensuring the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide, in the largest vaccine procurement and supply operation in history. This delivery is part of the first phase of deliveries for Jamaica, and more vaccines are expected to arrive successively during 2021.
According to the first round of COVAX allocations, Jamaica is expected to continue receiving doses through May until it reaches 124,800, the amount specified by COVAX”, the release said. The PAHO/WHO release said that PAHO’s Revolving Fund, which is responsible for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for the countries of the Americas under the COVAX Facility, sent 14,400 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, manufactured by SK Bioscience of South Korea. The 15 Caribbean countries that will receive just over 2.1 million
Jamaica is expected to receive approximately 125,000 doses of the vaccine.
doses of COVAX vaccines by May include Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic,
Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Surinam, and Trinidad and Tobago. Six of these
countries (Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent & the Grenadines) will receive the vaccines free of charge.
FOOD
Cheesecake baker makes the edible incredible Hardworking, dedicated and go-getter are just a few words to describe this young and ambitious businesswoman. Widwina Ariza of our nation’s capital Grand Turk, mother of two and a proud civil servant, said baking has always been one of her favourite hobbies. “After graduating high school, I turned my passion into a business. I birthed Annie’s. “Annie’s is named after my dear deceased grandmother ‘Annis Robinson’ who also loved and enjoyed cooking and baking. She was known for her amazing cookie and gingerbread. “Annie’s specialises in everything cheesecake. We make the edible incredible. “Our cheesecake bar includes whole cheesecakes, cheesecake cupcakes, mini cheesecake cupcakes, cheesecake push pops, cheesecake shots, mini cheesecake tacos, cheesecake pastry puffs, etc. “We look forward to branching off to something bigger and better in the near future.” Show her and those delicious treats some love. TCI Top Chef recommended.
Sugar cookies
BY JAGO MOORE
Chef Jago Moore has been in the industry for over 12 years. He’s the winner of TCI Top Chef 2018 and Lobster Fest 2018, a member of the TCI Culinary Team, and owner of Moores Fries and Moores Cookies. Visit chefmoore649 and tciculinarycollection on Instagram to find out more.
Annie’s owner Widwina Ariza loves to bake cheesecakes
Delicious sugar cookies by chef Jago Moore
Ingredients • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature • 1 ½ cup granulated sugar • 1 large egg • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • Assorted candies, sprinkles or coloured sugars for decorating (optional)
METHOD • In large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. • With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. • With mixer on low, gradually add flour mixture; beat until combined. • Divide dough in half; flatten into disks. • Wrap each in plastic; freeze until firm, at least 20 minutes, or place in a resealable plastic bag and freeze up to three months (thaw in refrigerator overnight). • Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line
•
•
• •
baking sheets with parchment. Remove one dough disk; let stand five to 10 minutes. Roll out 1/8 inch thick between two sheets of floured parchment, dusting dough with flour as needed. Cut shapes with cookie cutters. Using a spatula, transfer to prepared baking sheets. (If dough gets soft, chill 10 minutes.) Reroll scraps; cut shapes. Repeat with remaining dough. Bake, rotating halfway through, until edges are golden, 10 to 18 minutes (depending on size). Cool completely on wire racks. To ice
cookies, spread with the back of a spoon. Let the icing harden, about 20 minutes. Decorate as desired. • For the icing, sift confectioner’s sugar into a small bowl. Whisk in milk, water, or lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time, until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. • If too thin, whisk in more sugar; if too thick, add more liquid. Spread over cookies with back of a spoon. Add other decorations, if desired. Let the icing harden, about 20 minutes.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Regional News
March 16-22, 2021
Should the Atlantic hurricane season begin earlier? THE Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on 1 June. But over the past six years, significant storms have been forming earlier than this. So does the hurricane season need to start earlier - and is climate change to blame? At a regional meeting of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) this week, meteorologists and officials will be discussing a possible change to how the hurricane season is defined. “The 2020 hurricane season was one of the most challenging in the 40-year history of [the] WMO’s Tropical Cyclone Programme,” says WMO Secretary-General Prof Petteri Taalas. “The record number of hurricanes combined with Covid-19 to create, literally, the perfect storm.” The hurricane season has officially started on the 1 June since the mid-1960s, when hurricane reconnaissance planes would start routine trips into the Atlantic to spot storm development. Over the past 10 to 15 years, though, named storms have formed prior to the official start about 50% of the time. And the way they are defined and observed has changed significantly over time. “Many of these storms are short-lived systems that are now being identified because of better monitoring and policy changes that now name sub-tropical storms,” Dennis Feltgen, meteorologist at the US National Hurricane Center
Artwork: Weather monitoring satellites.
(NHC) told BBC Weather. The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was the most active on record with a total of 30 named storms. Two of those storms - Arthur and Bertha formed in May. As all the pre-determined names were used up, officials at the NHC had to move on to using the Greek alphabet for only the second time. During the 2020 season, the NHC had to issue thirty-six “special” forecasts called Tropical Weather Outlooks prior to 1 June. These highlight areas in the Atlantic where meteorologists monitor activity.
Mr Feltgen said that “in order to provide more consistent information for late May and early June systems, NHC will begin to issue these outlooks routinely from 15 May this year”. Is this a step closer to officially recognising the season starting earlier? “Discussions will need to be made on the need for, and potential ramifications of moving the beginning of the hurricane season to 15th May.” When referring to the average or normal Atlantic hurricane season, meteorologists have used a 30-year
climate average from 1981-2010. But we now have a new climate period of 1991-2020 to consider and this dramatically increases what we should now consider “normal”. Data will be discussed and finalised by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa) in May, ahead of the new season. But data provided by Brian McNoldy, senior researcher at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School, shows a 12-19% increase in named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes. The number of named storms has increased over the decades, but there
is no real evidence this is the result of a warming world. Dr McNoldy notes “the big shift in counts is simply that there were several inactive seasons from 19811990 and several active seasons from 2011-2020”. “Once that inactive period drops out of the average, and is replaced by the active, it will increase the numbers” The overall increase from 1961 is also likely to be due to better technology, along with observations over the Atlantic Ocean. Since satellites came along in the 1980s, we can spot and monitor the development of tropical cyclones and name them when they meet the threshold. We are simply able to record more. However, it is thought climate change is having an impact on the intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes and therefore their potential impacts. Experts have noted that, in recent years, tropical storms that make land are persisting far longer and doing more damage than in the past. In a warming world, the atmosphere can hold more water and therefore has the ability to bring more extreme rainfall. With sealevels rising, storms will also bring more flooding to low-lying areas. Hurricane Harvey brought record rainfall in Houston, Texas, in 2017 when it dumped 127 billion tonnes of water and Dorian flooded large parts of Grand Bahama in 2019. (BBC)
Bermuda: Three-quarters of current Covid cases are UK variant - Premier MORE than three-quarters of the current active Covid-19 cases in Bermuda are the UK variant, Premier David Burt said in a series of tweets. And he urged the community to continue to be vigilant, saying, “coronavirus is real, but we can’t let our guard down”. The Premier posted the Tweets on Saturday night, highlighting that 24 of Bermuda’s 31 active Covid-19 cases are the UK variant. Mr Burt wrote: “Coronavirus fatigue is real, but we can’t let our guard down. 24/31 of #Bermuda’s active #Coronavirus cases are the ’UK Variant’. “This strain is known to be more transmissible & is also more deadly. As you move around the island please remember to follow the rules. “Avoid large gatherings that are in violation of the rules in place. Please remember to use hand sanitiser, wear a mask and keep your distance from
others. The next 6 weeks are critical and will require all of us to do our part to break the chains of transmission. “It is vital that we follow the simple precautions in place to limit transmission while we continue to immunise our seniors & the vulnerable. We are fortunate to have access to vaccines & are top 10 in the world in testing & vaccinations, but we need to be sensible.” According to the US Centres For Disease Control, the UK identified a variant called B.1.1.7 which had a large number of mutations in the fall of 2020. The CDC website says: “This variant spreads more easily and quickly than other variants. In January 2021, experts in the UK reported that this variant may be associated with an increased risk of death compared to other variant viruses, but more studies are needed to confirm this finding.
“It has since been detected in many countries around the world. “This variant was first detected in the US at the end of December 2020.“ All of Bermuda’s 31 cases are under public health monitoring and none are in the hospital. Bermuda’s current country status remains listed as ’sporadic Cases’, by the CDC. Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said last week: “Getting vaccinated is one of the single most important measures that individuals can take to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community.” More than one in four people in Bermuda have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and 16 percent are fully immunised, according to the health ministry. The ministry said that as of last Wednesday, 17,395 people had had their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine
The Premier posted the Tweets on Saturday night, highlighting that 24 of Bermuda’s 31 active Covid-19 cases are the UK variant.
against Covid-19, and of that number, 10,332 had received the two required for full immunisation. This means that 27 per cent of the population have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 16 percent are fully immunised. Bermuda is currently in Phase 2 of its vaccination programme. Priority
is still given to those aged 65 or older. Those wishing to take the vaccine can register or take advantage of government’s walk-in service at the Bermuda College. The Covid-19 vaccine is only available to Bermuda residents. Proof of ID and residency will be requested at your appointment. (Royal Gazette)
March 16-22, 2021
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Regional News
Four police killed in raid on Haiti gang stronghold
The Premier made the announcement as Cayman reached its target of vaccinating 90 percent of the over-60 population.
Cayman Islands to shorten quarantine period starting March 22 CAYMAN Islands Premier Alden McLaughlin on Wednesday announced that the mandatory quarantine period across the territory will be reduced to 10 days, starting March 22. The Premier made the announcement as Cayman reached its target of vaccinating 90 percent of the over-60 population. There are approximately 5,000 people living in the Cayman Islands who are aged 60 or over. Speaking during a press briefing Wednesday morning, the premier said Cayman had reached the “muchanticipated milestone” and more than 91 percent of that population had been vaccinated. “This gives us confidence that the
most vulnerable have been protected for the worst of COVID-19 disease,” he said. Starting March 22, people arriving on the island who have been vaccinated at least two weeks beforehand will only need to be in isolation for 10 days, rather than the current 14 days. Travellers will continue to be required to provide a negative PCR result from a test taken within 72 hours of travel, as well as a negative result from a test taken at the airport upon arrival. The premier however confirmed that children will still need to undergo a 14-day quarantine, as currently anyone under the age of 16 cannot get vaccinated.
Minnis still in favour of term limits – next time around PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he still plans to institute term limits, suggesting this would be on the agenda if he is re-elected for a second term. On Friday, Dr Minnis was asked about the term-limit promise he made on the campaign trail and shortly after winning the 2017 election. He said: “That hasn’t changed. I have one more term. Election is due by May of next year. Whenever (the) election is called, then I have no doubt we’ll win. I’d roll in to my last and final term. I would legislate it as quickly as possible. However, I most certainly would adhere to what has been said.” Shortly after the May 2017 general election, the Minnis administration said it would seek the consent of the electorate in a referendum on instituting term limits for the prime minister, a recall system for non-performing members of Parliament and an independent Constituencies Commission and Electoral Commission. The promises
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is confident that his party will win the next general election.
were made in the Speech from The Throne, which revealed the government’s intended plans over the ensuing five years. In May 2018, Attorney General Carl Bethel said public consultation on bills establishing term limits for prime ministers and fixed dates for election would begin before the end of that year. At the time, he said the Law Reform Commission would “finalise two draft constitutional bills” to address such matters.
HAITIAN authorities said Saturday that four police agents were killed and several wounded Friday during a botched anti-gang operation in the capital, Port-au-Prince. The ill-fated operation drew harsh criticism on social media after a video emerged of assailants dragging and beating the bodies of two members of a special police unit. Eight other officers were wounded, three of whom remained hospitalised Saturday in stable condition, said national police director Leon Charles. In a brief statement Charles expressed sympathy to the victims’ families as well as to “those who support the police and are sickened by the publicity around the bodies of dead officers.” The police have yet to recover the bodies of those killed in the crimeridden Village de Dieu neighborhood, where the sound of automatic gunfire filled the air Friday. Charles did not say if any arrests had been made. Images posted on social media showed several damaged police vehicles, including an armored
Eight other officers were wounded, three of whom remained hospitalised but in stable condition.
truck, abandoned on a street in the waterfront district. Charles admitted that some equipment “remained in the theater of operations,” without providing details. The criminal gang reportedly also recovered some high-caliber automatic weaponry and other police equipment. A statement Saturday from the United Nations office in Haiti said it was imperative that the circumstances surrounding the raid
be clarified and that those responsible for the violence be brought to justice. Gang influence in Haiti has grown steadily in recent years. Criminal networks exercise total control over several poor, densely populated neighborhoods of the capital, creating no-go zones where they hold kidnap victims. Haiti has seen a surge in kidnappings for ransom in recent months, targeting both the wealthy and those of far more modest means. (VOA)
Jamaicans in US give thumbs up to Biden’s rescue plan JAMAICANS across the United States have given the thumbs up to the US$1.9-trillion America economic rescue plan which President Joe Biden signed into law last Thursday. “Obviously, the US$1,400 stimulus payment is the most talked about aspect of the plan,” said Wayne Golding, a key member of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council. “However there are other key areas of the Bill, like the child tax credit and unemployment payments, which will benefit Jamaicans.” Noting that many Jamaicans in the United States are at the lower rung of the economic ladder, Golding said that a sizable number are likely to benefit because the threshold for those who will be exempted is very high. Individuals earning US$75,000 and couples with a total income of US$150,000 will benefit under the Bill. The benefits will phase out at US$80,000 for individuals and couples who earn in excess of $150,000. Golding also predicted that Jamaica would likely benefit from the US economic rescue plan as Jamaicans here “will most likely send money through remittance services to relatives and friends back home” from the amount they receive. Meanwhile, Ronnie Hammick,
US President Joe Biden signed a US$1.9 trillion economic rescue plan last week.
whose son is headed to college this fall, said he welcomed the help from the package. Hammick, who heads the Ex-Correctional Officers Association Jamaica, also noted that his members “view the package as very positive”. He noted that some who lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic now see some hope with a likely recover of the economy as a result of the rescue plan. Pennsylvania-based businessman Hugh Robinson also described the Biden rescue package as positive and important for small business
owners, many of whom suffered considerable losses as a result of the novel coronavirus pandemic. One group of Jamaicans who are more than enthusiastic about the rescue plan are those who own or operate restaurants. “The restaurant business took a huge hit,” owner of the popular Gray Dolphin Restaurant and Lounge in Queens, Jennifer Francis told the Jamaica Observer. A total of US$28.6 billion is included in the relief Bill to help the restaurant industry. (Jamaica Observer)
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World News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
March 16-22, 2021
UK to shift foreign policy focus following review The UK is pledging to shift its focus towards countries such as India, Japan and Australia, after a year-long review of its foreign policy. The government said it would boost alliances in the Indo-Pacific region, describing it as “increasingly the geopolitical centre of the world”. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the UK would work with China on issues such as climate change. And he warned against adopting a “Cold-War mentality” with the country. The review, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out later in the House of Commons, also paves the way for an increase in nuclear warheads. Labour says the strategy will leave the UK “woefully unprepared”. The publication of the review comes amid growing internal pressure on the government from Conservative circles to harden its line on China over issues such as its clampdown on Uighur Muslims and democratic rights in Hong Kong. Mr Raab said there were “positives” to the UK’s relationship with China, including over trade and investment. He added that it would also not be possible to “shift the dial” on climate change without cooperating with the country. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, he said there would also be “difficult issues” to manage, including over protecting
Plans include building a White House-style situation room in the Cabinet Office.
UK industrial secrets and telecoms infrastructure. But he warned: “It wouldn’t make sense, I don’t think it would be feasible to go into some old, outdated Cold War mentality with China.” Pressed on whether the UK should toughen its stance on the country, as advocated by so-called China hawks, Mr Raab replied: “China is here to stay.” Mr Raab also said more nuclear
warheads could be required as part of the Integrated Review, as they represented the “ultimate insurance policy” against global threats. The long-awaited integrated review of foreign and defence policy will also set out plans for a White House-style situation room built in the Cabinet Office. It will also include plans for a new counter-terrorism operations centre, intended to improve the speed of
response to terrorist incidents. Sir Alex Younger, a former head of MI6, told Today the gap between western nations and China had closed in important ways during the coronavirus pandemic, and a new approach was now needed. While he said there was “no sense declaring a new Cold War”, Sir Alex admitted both China and the Russian government presented “generational” threats to Britain.
While the government says Nato remains the bedrock of defence and security in the Euro-Atlantic sphere, it wants to work alongside allies to “shape a more open international order in which democracies flourish”. BBC security correspondent Gordon Corera said the aim of the review would be to showcase offensive as well as defensive capabilities, suggesting high-tech investment in fields like artificial intelligence will help modernise the military, maintain Britain’s power and bring economic growth at home. But he said becoming a technology “superpower” and competing with the likes of China was no easy task. Labour’s shadow foreign secretary Lisa Nandy said there was a “yawning chasm” between the government’s words and actions and said government policy had “left our defences down in our own backyard”. The publication of the review comes months after Boris Johnson announced a £16.5bn increase in defence spending over the next four years. At the time, he said the funding would allow for investment in an agency dedicated to artificial intelligence and a “space command” capable of launching the UK’s first rocket by 2022, as well as a cyber corridor across the north of England which would include headquarters for the new National Cyber Force.
Mozambique insurgency: Militants beheading children, aid agency reports Aid agency Save the Children says Islamist militants are beheading children as young as 11 in Mozambique’s northern province of Cabo Delgado. One mother told the agency she had had to watch as her 12-year-old son was killed in this way close to where she was hiding with her other children. More than 2,500 people have been killed and 700,000 have fled their homes since an Islamist insurgency began in 2017. The militants have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) group. In its report, Save the Children said it had spoken to displaced families who reported gruesome scenes in the gas-rich province. One mother, whose name was withheld to protect her identity, said her eldest child had been beheaded near where she and her other children were hiding. “That night our village was
attacked and houses were burned,” she said. “When it all started, I was at home with my four children. We tried to escape to the woods but they took my eldest son and beheaded him. We couldn’t do anything because we would be killed too.” Another woman said her son had been killed by militants while she and her other three children had been forced to flee. “After my 11-year-old son was killed, we understood that it was no longer safe to stay in my village,” she said. “We fled to my father’s house in another village, but a few days later the attacks started there too.” Chance Briggs, Save the Children’s country director in Mozambique, said the reports of attacks on children “sicken us to our core”. “Our staff have been brought to tears when hearing the stories of suffering told by mothers in displacement camps,” he said.
Nearly a million people face hunger because of the conflict, Save the Children says.
The United Nations special rapporteur on extra-judicial executions described the militants’ actions as “cruel beyond words”. The insurgents are known locally as al-Shabab, which means The Youth in Arabic. This reflects that it receives its support mostly from young unemployed people in the
predominantly Muslim region of Cabo Delgado. A group with a similar name has existed in Somalia for more than a decade. It is affiliated to al-Qaeda, unlike the Mozambican group which allied itself with the rival IS movement in 2019. IS sees the insurgents as being
part of what it calls its Central Africa Province. It released images last year showing fighters in Cabo Delgado with AK-47 rifles and rocket propelled grenades. This alarmed counter-terrorism experts, as it suggested that global jihadists were exploiting a local insurgency for their own gains. (BBC)
March 16-22, 2021
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
World News
Senate confirms Deb Haaland as Biden’s Interior secretary in historic vote
Ministers and senior officials have criticised Boris Johnson’s decisions ahead of the “inevtiable” second wave.
Ministers frustrated with PM’s ‘mistakes’ ahead of Covid second wave CABINET ministers and senior officials have told the BBC the government should have brought in tougher restrictions in the early autumn to tackle the “inevitable” second wave of coronavirus. In the run up to the anniversary of the lockdown, BBC News has spoken off the record to more than 20 senior politicians, officials and former officials about the key moments of the last 12 months. The investigation revealed significant frustration in government about Boris Johnson’s unwillingness to tighten restrictions in September, as cases again began to rise. One senior minister said the government “should have locked down more severely in the autumn”, while another said it had been “totally ridiculous” to be arguing about whether people should return to the office when there was inevitably going to be a second wave. And one senior figure told us: “The biggest mistake was the rush of blood of to the head in the summer… there was a sense of denial about the second wave.”
One former official added: “We kept repeating the same mistakes over and over again, despite the masses of evidence that kept coming up. “We lost an awful lot of time, and that led to more cases and more deaths.” Health Secretary Matt Hancock defended the decisions taken, saying the government had “listened to all the evidence all the way through”. But, he added: “You have to balance all the different considerations. It’s only at the prime minister’s desk that all these different considerations come together. “I’m responsible for the health aspects and then the huge economic response the chancellor is responsible for.” We can also reveal that Boris Johnson had been briefed by officials ahead of a press conference on 3 March 2020 - right at the start of the pandemic - to discourage people from shaking hands with each other. Instead, when he took to the lectern, the PM boasted he “shook hands with everybody” during a hospital visit.
THE Senate voted Monday to confirm Deb Haaland as President Joe Biden’s Interior secretary, a historic move that will make her the first Native American Cabinet secretary. The vote was 51 to 40, with most Republicans voting against her after several called her views on public land use and fossil fuels extreme. It wasn’t the first time Haaland has made history. In 2018, she was elected as one of the two first female Native Americans in Congress. Her nomination to lead the Interior Department was a victory for an alliance of progressives and Indigenous leaders who campaigned to elevate one of their own to a powerful federal seat that oversees natural resources, public lands and Indian affairs. Haaland will be part of Biden’s plan to tackle the climate crisis and reduce carbon emissions. During her confirmation hearings, Haaland highlighted her historymaking nomination, saying, “The historic nature of my confirmation is not lost on me, but I will say, it is not about me. Rather, I hope this nomination would be an inspiration for Americans -- moving forward together as one nation and creating opportunities for all of us.” Discussing her motivation to take on the job, she said, “It’s difficult to not feel obligated to protect this land, and I feel that every Indigenous person in this country understands that,” adding, “We want to protect this country, and that means protecting it in every single way.” Four Republicans -- Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Susan Collins of Maine, and Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska -joined all Democrats in voting for her.
Deb Haaland is the first Native American Cabinet secretary in the US.
Republicans who oppose Haaland’s nomination highlighted previous comments she’s made related to fossil fuels and answers they felt were insufficient at her confirmation hearing. Sen. John Barrasso, a Republican from Wyoming and the ranking GOP member on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, spoke in opposition to the nomination in a floor speech Thursday. “Representative Haaland’s policy views and lack of substantive answers during her confirmation hearing, in my opinion, disqualify her for this job,” Barrasso said, referencing past comments she has made, including during a 2019 interview with The Guardian where she stated that she “wholeheartedly” opposes fracking and drilling on public lands. “In my opinion and in the opinion of my constituents, these views are extreme,” he said, adding that her
Prince Philip leaves hospital following heart surgery PRINCE Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has left King Edward VII’s Hospital in London one month after he was first admitted. The 99-year-old, who had heart surgery earlier this month, is in “good spirits” after being discharged Tuesday, a royal source told CNN. He has now returned to Windsor Castle, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace. Philip, who was first admitted to King Edward VII’s Hospital on February 16, had been recovering at the private facility after having heart surgery at St Bartholomew’s Hospital. “His Royal Highness wishes to thank all the medical staff who looked after him at both King Edward VII’s Hospital and St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and everyone who has sent
their good wishes,” the statement added. A royal source told CNN last month that his hospital admission was not an emergency and was not related to Covid-19. Philip is married to Queen Elizabeth II and both have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. Philip, who turns 100 in June, stepped back from public life in 2017 and has been taken to the hospital several times in recent years. In December 2019, he received hospital treatment for a pre-existing condition. The Queen and her husband have spent most of the past year at Windsor Castle, outside London, having moved away from Buckingham Palace during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in spring 2020.
Prince Philip left King Edward VII’s Hospital in London on Tuesday -- one month after he was first admitted.
views are “backed up by legislation that she has co-sponsored” and noting that she has co-sponsored the Green New Deal resolution in the House. During her confirmation hearings, Haaland attempted to strike a delicate balance on energy and environmental policy, saying, “There’s no question that fossil energy does and will continue to play a major role in America for years to come.” But, she added, “Our climate challenge must be addressed,” and she contended that “the Department has a role in harnessing the clean energy potential of our public lands to create jobs and new economic opportunities.” On several occasions, Haaland declined to give her personal opinions in the face of questions from Republican senators, indicating instead that she would work in service of Biden to carry out his administration’s agenda. (CNN)
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March 16-22, 2021
Grammys 2021: Beyoncé and Taylor Swift make history BEYONCÉ has set a new record at the Grammy Awards with her 28th win. The star is now the most-awarded woman in Grammys history, overtaking bluegrass singer Alison Krauss. “I am so honoured, I’m so excited,” she said while accepting her record-breaking trophy, for best R&B performance. Taylor Swift also made history at Sunday’s ceremony, by becoming the first female artiste ever to win album of the year three times. The star was rewarded for her lockdown album Folklore - after previously winning with Fearless in 2010 and the pop opus 1989 in 2016. Only three other artists have ever won the album of the year prize three times: Frank Sinatra, Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder. Beyoncé’s 28th Grammy was presented in honour of Black Parade, a celebration of black power and resilience, which she released on Juneteenth last year. “As an artist, I believe it’s my job to reflect the times, and it’s been such a difficult time,” she said as she collected the award. “So I wanted to uplift, encourage, celebrate all of the beautiful black queens and kings that continue to inspire me and inspire the world”. The star has now equalled superproducer Qunicy Jones’ total of 28 Grammys. Only classical conductor Sir Georg Solti has more, with 31. Beyoncé was also part of another
see and you know that fight that we had in us the summer of 2020, keep that same energy. Thank you.”
Beyonce (left) is now the most-awarded woman in Grammys history, while Taylor Swift (right) became the first female artiste to win album of the year three times.
historic moment - when Megan Thee Stallion became the first female artist to win the best rap song award. The Houston musician picked up the prize for her breakout hit Savage (Remix), on which Beyoncé delivers a guest verse. Black Parade was not the only award-winner song to reflect the Black Lives Matter movement: R&B singer H.E.R. won song of the year for I Can’t Breathe, which quotes the
last words of George Floyd. The 46-year-old died while being arrested by police in Minneapolis last year. His death, along with that of Breonna Taylor, sparked a global wave of protests. Accepting the prize, H.E.R. said she never imagined “that my fear and my pain would turn into impact”. “That’s why I write music,” she added, “and I’m so, so grateful”. The singer, whose real name is Gabriella Wilson, was accompanied
by her co-writer Tiara Thomas, and she recalled how they’d written I Can’t Breathe “over FaceTime” last summer. “I recorded this song by myself in my bedroom at my mom’s house,” she said. “And I want to thank my dad - he cried, he was in tears when I wrote the song and I played it for him. He was the first person I played it for.” “But remember,” she concluded. “We are the change that we wish to
‘BRINGING THE CONCERT TO YOU’ Aside from the awards, the four-hour ceremony deliberately put the focus on live music. “I know that you haven’t been able to go to a concert in a long time,” said host Trevor Noah. “So tonight we’re bringing the concert to you.” The show kicked off with three back-to-back performances from Harry Styles, Billie Eilish and Haim, who performed from a circle of stages that recalled the set-up of Jools Holland’s BBC TV show. Styles raised the curtain with his hit single Watermelon Sugar, sporting a lime green feather boa and an open-chested leather jacket. The song went on to win best pop solo performance later in the ceremony, making him the first member of One Direction to win a Grammy - either as a solo artist or as part of the group. Billie Eilish, who dominated last year’s ceremony, followed with her ballad Everything I Wanted; while Haim played The Steps from their album-of-the-year nominated Women In Music Pt III. Eilish’s song later won record of the year - her second consecutive win in that category. Her Bond theme, No Time to Die, was also awarded best song written for visual media. (BBC)
Palace taps external law firm to probe ‘bullying’ claims against Meghan Markle: report BUCKINGHAM Palace has hired an independent law firm to investigate a purported claim that Meghan Markle “bullied” royal staff, CNN reported Monday. CNN said it did not know which external firm had been tapped by the Queen, but it noted the move coincided with the palace attempting to contain the damage caused by Prince Harry and Meghan’s blockbuster interview with Oprah Winfrey. The palace previously said it would investigate after unidentified royal aides reportedly told The Times of London that a complaint was lodged against Meghan related to her time as a working royal living at Kensington Palace. “Our commitment to look into the circumstances around allegations from former staff of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex is being taken forward but we will not be providing a public commentary on it,” a palace spokesman said Monday.
Meghan said earlier this month that she was disheartened by the complaint reportedly made in October 2018 by Jason Knauf, the couple’s former press secretary. “The Duchess is saddened by this latest attack on her character, particularly as someone who has been the target of bullying herself and is deeply committed to supporting those who have experienced pain and trauma,” a spokesperson for the couple said in a statement obtained by People. During the couple’s sit-down with Oprah, Meghan said an unidentified member of the royal family raised “concerns” about the potential skin color of her son, Archie, before he was born. Meghan, 39, also revealed she felt so maligned and minimised in her royal role — and besieged by racist media coverage and social media — that she experienced suicidal thoughts.
Megan Markle revealed she felt so maligned and minimised in her royal role — and besieged by racist media coverage and social media — that she experienced suicidal thoughts.
“I just didn’t see a solution,” she told Oprah. “But I knew that if I didn’t say it that I would do it — and I just didn’t want to be alive
anymore. And that was a very clear and real and frightening constant thought.” Meghan said she asked a senior
royal about the possibility of inpatient care in a hospital but was told it “wouldn’t be good for the institution.” (NYDailynews)
March 16-22, 2021
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ENTERTAINMENT
Nine actors of colour nominated to set Oscars record DIVERSITY played a starring role in Monday’s announcement of the 2021 Oscar nominees. Nine actors of colour were nominated across the four acting categories, setting a new Academy Awards record. The nominees include Viola Davis and Andra Day for best actress; Steven Yeun, Riz Ahmed and Chadwick Boseman for best actor; LaKeith Stanfield, Daniel Kaluuya and Leslie Odom Jr. for best supporting actor; and Yuh-Jung Youn for best supporting actress. The Academy Awards garnered tremendous backlash after every acting nominee was white in both 2015 and 2016 — a controversy known as #OscarsSoWhite. Last year, “Harriet” star Cynthia Erivo was the only Black actor to receive a nomination. On Monday, Yeun became the first Asian-American performer to receive a nomination for best actor. He stars in “Minari” as a Korean immigrant who moves his family to rural Arkansas to start a farm. Youn, who plays the grandmother
in the film, is the first South Korean performer to be nominated for best supporting actress. Ahmed, who stars as a drummer who loses his hearing in “Sound of Metal,” is also nominated for best actor, marking the first time two performers of Asian descent are finalists in the category in a single year. Stanfield and Kaluuya are both nominated for “Judas and the Black Messiah,” a drama about an FBI informant who gets in close with Black Panther Chairman Fred Hampton. Leslie Odom Jr., who portrays singer Sam Cooke in “One Night in Miami,” about a fictional meeting between icons, is nominated for best supporting actor as well. Davis and Boseman are nominated for best actress and best actor, respectively, for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” a drama about a contentious recording session in the 1920s. Day, who plays the titular jazz icon in “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” is also nominated for best actress. (NYDailynews)
The “True Detective” star, whose home state is Texas, says he is thinking it over and it may be what he wants to do with the next chapter of his life.
Matthew McConaughey is considering Texas governor run MATTHEW McConaughey says he is seriously considering a run for Texas governor. The “True Detective” star, whose home state is Texas, says he is thinking it over and it may be what he wants to do with the next chapter of his life. On a recent episode of Crime Stoppers of Houston’s “The Balanced Voice” podcast, McConaughey told host Rania Mankarious that running for governor is “a true consideration.” “I’m looking into now again, what is my leadership role?” he said. “Because I do think I have some
things to teach and share, and what is my role? What’s my category in my next chapter of life that I’m going into?” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is up for reelection next year. Back in November, McConaughey was asked the same thing on “The Hugh Hewitt Show,” and said, “I don’t know. I mean, that wouldn’t be up to me. It would be up to the people more than it would me.” “Look, politics seems to be a broken business to me right now. And when politics redefines its purpose, I could be a hell of a lot more interested,” he added. (CNN)
Viola Davis earned the fourth Academy Awards nomination of her career, making her the most-nominated Black actress in the awards show’s history.
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March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Sarah Harding: ‘I won’t see another Christmas’ SARAH Harding, who has breast cancer, has revealed doctors have told her she won’t see another Christmas. The former Girls Aloud singer announced last year she had the disease, which had spread to other parts of her body. An extract from her memoir, printed in the Times, said: “In December my doctor told me that the upcoming Christmas would probably be my last.” She said she didn’t want an exact prognosis, just “comfort” and to be “pain-free”. Harding said in her memoir, Hear Me Out, she is “trying to live and enjoy every second of my life, however long it might be”. “I am having a glass of wine or two during all this, because it helps me relax. “I’m at a stage now where I don’t know how many months I have left. “Who knows, maybe I’ll surprise everyone, but that’s how I’m looking at things.” Harding also revealed she had sepsis while she was being treated for cancer in hospital. She said she was put into an induced coma and placed on a ventilator. “Even once I was off the ventilator, I couldn’t speak properly,” she said. “beAll I could do was make noises that sounded like a chimpanzee trying to communicate.” Harding told the public about her cancer diagnosis in August last year. Doing so was, she says, “scary” but “the right thing to do”. She told the Times, to whom she also gave an interview, that due to
Reggie Warren was released from the hospital on Saturday to die at home.
R&B singer Reggie Warren dies age 52 Harding shot to fame in 2002 as a contestant on ITV’s Popstars: The Rivals.
the pandemic she had put off going to the doctor when she first started having symptoms. Now, she hopes that her story will encourage others to get themselves checked by a doctor if they have concerns. She said she had been “inundated” with support since then, including from her former Girls Aloud band mates, adding: “I’m grateful beyond words for that.” Harding shot to fame in 2002 as a contestant on Popstars: The Rivals an ITV talent show which aimed to find both a new girl band and boy band. She made it to the final and was
voted into the group which became Girls Aloud, alongside Nicola Roberts, Nadine Coyle, Kimberley Walsh and Cheryl Cole (then Tweedy). The group went on to have several UK hits, including Sound of the Underground, The Promise, Love Machine, Jump and Call The Shots. Girls Aloud reunited in 2012 after a short hiatus, to release and tour a greatest hits album. They announced their split in 2013. Harding has since taken on several acting roles, including appearances in Run for Your Wife, and St. Trinian’s 2: The Legend of Fritton’s Gold.
R&B SINGER Reggie Warren, one of the original five members of the group Troop, has died. He was 52. He had been dealing with health issues for some time, family members told TMZ, and had been hospitalised in January. Warren was released from the hospital on Saturday to die at home, TMZ said, which he did, surrounded by family.
Troop is an acronym or Total Respect of Other People, the group Warren and five childhood friends formed in the 1980s. They recorded five albums in the 1980s and ’90s, went on hiatus and then reunited in 2004 for more touring. Later they would appear together in concert with the likes of Boyz II Men, Keith Sweat, Jon B, Brian McKnight and others, TMZ said. (NYDailynews)
Pippa Middleton and James Matthews were married in 2017. Riz Ahmed in “Sound of Metal.”
Riz Ahmed becomes first Muslim to be nominated for best actor at Oscars RIZ AHMED was part of several Oscars milestones on Monday. The British star, 38, became the first Muslim to be nominated for best actor when he was named a finalist for his performance as a drummer who loses his hearing in “Sound of Metal.” He is also the first performer of Pakistani descent to be nominated for an acting honor at the Academy Awards.
Ahmed is joined in the best actor race by “Minari” star Steven Yeun, marking the first time in the history of the category that two performers of Asian descent are nominated in the same year. “To be honest, I just feel like however people can find themselves in this moment, however they can find a connection to this moment, is beautiful to me,” Ahmed told the Los
Angeles Times on Monday. “Some people may connect to the fact that it’s the first Muslim, some people might say British Pakistani, some people might say first person from Wembley in London, what matters to me is that these moments of celebration, these moments of collective recognition, are actually moments where as many people as possible can recognise themselves in it.”
Pippa Middleton welcomes a daughter, names her Grace Elizabeth Jane BRITISH socialite Pippa Middleton Mathews gave birth to a daughter Monday and named her Grace Elizabeth Jane. Celebrity magazine People reports the little girl arrived at 4:22 a.m. and weighs 6 lbs., 7 oz. Grace shares a middle name with her royal aunt Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, who was born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton. Pippa, 37, is Kate’s younger sister. She is also the mother of a 2-year-old boy named
Arthur who was born in October 2018. The babies’ father is 45-yearold James Matthews, who was a race car driver. Pippa and James married in 2017. Pippa is described on social media as a “socialite, author and columnist.” She gained international attention in 2011 when photos of her serving as her sister’s maid of honor at her wedding to Prince William were well received. (NYDailynews)
March 16-22, 2021
Classifieds
27
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
JOB LISTINGS SERVICES AUTO SALES REAL ESTATE
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
GET LEGAL HELP ON YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM
DELIVERY BOY
CALL OR EMAIL US AT
We are in need of a young man to deliver bills, pick up checks and distribute newspapers. Must be honest and have a clean driver’s license.
duncansonlaw@gmail.com duncansonlaw.office@gmail.com 649-941-4444/ 649-245-1314/649-348-5744 DUNCANSON & CO BARRISTERS & ATTORNEYS 16121
Contact the Publisher at tcweeklynews@gmail.com
28 CLASSIFIEDS A&W WHOLESALE GROCERIES COOPER JACK RD, INDUSTRIAL PARK Is seeking to employ a
CLEANER
Cleaning the shop, dusting, etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly CONTACT: 649-242-7417
A1 PREMIUM CLEANING SERVICES #8 Stingray Street, Glass Shack, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a
CLEANER
Cleaning upholstery, carpets, pressure cleaning, etc. Salary: $7 hourly
CONTACT: 343-4902
BEL-AIR MEDICAL CENTER
#16 COOPER JACK, PROVO STORAGE SUITE #5A Is seeking to employ a
FULL TIME CLEANER Cleaning the clinic. Please Contact the clinic during office hours 9am3pm Monday through Thursday for interviews. Salary: $6.25 hourly
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24622
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
BRUTUS GARDINER
CHARITE ROMILUS
SEVANO WILSON
DOMESTIC WORKER
LABOURER
LABOURER
#61 Sisal Road, Long Bay Is seeking to employ a
• Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. • To work 6 days a week. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 342-5111
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24610
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
24647
GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 244 66 53
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.
CONTACT: 941-8405
24609
GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 343 76 56
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24641
BEHIND CHICKEN SHACK, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a
STORE CLEANER/ HELPER Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 2427012/347-9199
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24646
PHARMACIST DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Serves patients with kind and caring disposition • Prepares medications • Counsels and monitors patients drug therapies • Gives pharmacological advice and information to multidisciplinary health care team, • Prepares medications by reviewing and interpreting physicians orders • Detects and resolves therapeutic incompatibilities • Provides pharmacological advice and information via phone and in person to patients and health care professionals.
LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour contact: info@ bohioresort.com Duties: cleaning up around the surroundings and maintenance THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL INTERESTED BELONGERS ARE ASKED TO FORWARD A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT 24643
Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment. Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems. Salary: $7 hourly
CONTACT: 946-8877
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24631
LABOURER
NUMBER 1 KITCHEN GRILL RESTAURANT
# 4 Dock yard, Kew Town 241-7032
IVANELLE FRANCOIS #429 FRONT ROAD, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a
DOMESTIC WORKER
Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 242-2716
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24633
DEANAYRI DOERNER
404A South Dock Road Is seeking to employ a
LIVE-IN NANNY
• Must have a teaching degree and knowledge of first aid. • Must fluently speak English and Spanish. • Teaching Children watching children. Salary: $7 hourly
CONTACT: 244-3361
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24621
HARVEST VARIETY STORE Front road Blue Hills, Providenciales Telephone: 341-8540
STORE HELPER/ LABOURER
- $7.00 hourly
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. CONTACT: 345-9455
24613
IS LOOKING FOR A
WAITRESS
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24604
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS • Must have certification from accredited university/institution and valid professional licenses through valid and acceptable regulation authority • Must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience working in a Retail Pharmacy environment • Skilled at interacting with customers of all socioeconomic backgrounds • Ability to operate Point-of-Sale and Kroll software programs • Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Competent and reliable professional, committed and experience • Salary is based on qualifications and experience • POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.
GRAND TURK
DA CONCH SHACK
BACK SALINA, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
BUILDING 5A, WINDWARD DRIVE
BOHIO DIVE RESORT
#51 BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS. Is seeking to employ a
ISLAND COLD DRINKS
ISLAND PHARMACY
BELONGERS ONLY NEED TO APPLY, QUALIFIED APPLICANTS MAY APPLY VIA EMAIL TO: ISLANDPHARMACYTCI@GMAIL.COM. ADDRESSED TO THE ATTENTION OF BUSINESS MANAGER, MRS. MELANIE DELANCY QUALIFIED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT
BLUE HILLS GLASS
COOK
Prepare Haitian and Caribbean food, breakfast, lunch & fried meat at night. Salary starts at $8.00 per hour.
Clean the store every morning, upheld safe and clean working environment, cleans customer bathroom, loading and unloading of goods. Assisting during sales. Pay: 6.25 per hour
RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.
RENEWAL. THIS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE
J&JF CONSTRUCTION
JANETRIA STUBBS
MASON
BABYSITTER
24659
7A Martha Yard, The Bight Is seeking to employ a
Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. Salary: $15 hourly
CONTACT: 348-7523
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24629
24657
Lower Bight, The Bight Is seeking to employ a
Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $6.50 hourly
CONTACT: 348-9648
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24607
March 16-22, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS 29
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
BOHIO DIVE RESORT
BOHIO DIVE RESORT
GRAND TURK
GRAND TURK
BARTENDER
• Minimum 3 years experience in a full service bar • Fluent in English – verbal and written – Spanish is an asset • Pleasant personality a must • Excellent mathematical skills • Ability to mix Bohio specialty cocktails • Ability to open and serve bottle of wine • Cleaning and organization of all areas of bar • Re-stocking of fridges and inventory bar
WATER SPORTS COORDINATOR
daily • Must be able to open bottles of wine • Ensure proper cash handling- open and closing duties • Working hours Monday – Sunday including holidays, based on scheduled shift, must be available to start at 6am, hours based on weekly schedule • Wage $6.25 per hour this position is currently held by a work permit holder
PLEASE EMAIL BOHIORESORT.COM BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT
24602
DOREEN E. BEEN LEEWARD PALMS Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 231-3465
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24620
BLONEVA ETOY GREEN Leeward palms Providenciales Telephone: 246-6031
CLEANER
To clean all areas within the yard, clean the gutters, trim down the trees in the yard, Sweeping and removing debris from outside, water the plants and assist with other cleaner work around the property. Salary starts at $6.25 per hour. FIRST TIME, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.
24655
JODELIN CHARITE #32 Leeward Palms, Providenciales
HOUSE KEEPER/ BABYSITTER
Job description – Cleaning the house, doing the laundry, Ironing, child care. Must be able to cook. Salary - $7.25 per hour 6 days a week, must be willing to work on weekends and holidays if necessary.
CONTACT NUMBER – 231-0977
This position is for a first time applicant Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department 24652
GENO CONSTRUCTION
Providenciales, (TCI) - Seeking employment for the following:
MASON Applicant duties is to installing dressed stone, mixing cement and mortar, and restoring old and damaged masonry works. etc. Salary $8.00 per hrs 8hrs per day and 5 days per week. Position is vacant and Belongers are encourage to apply
CONTACT 342 7589
or the Employment Services, Labour Department, Providenciales, (TCI) regarding employment. 24602
BETTY’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY Betty’s Plaza, Kew Town Providenciales Telephone: 342-9699
KITCHEN HELPER/ LABOURER
Sweep or scrub floors, clean food preparation areas, clean meats & vegetables. Clean garbage cans with water or steam, transfer supplies, equipment between storage & work areas, wash dishes. Pay: 6.25 per hour
FIRST TIME. THIS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE
24656
JOHN WALKIN Rigby Hills, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a
CARETAKER Help the patient get
dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 341-7451
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24648
THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES MUST HAVE: • Certification in SAGE 50 Accounting Software in order to complete bookkeeping entries in the evenings • Ability to plan and 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 • Monthly wage: $1,250 per month
Candidates should apply in writing including a cover letter Resume and references to: info@bohioresort.com This is for work permit renewal. Qualified Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department
24644
HOLTON WILLIAMS
BOTTLE CREEK, NORTH CAICOS
LABOURER Duties: To help skilled workers, To clean properties at days end and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour
CONTACT: 246-1721
This position is for work permit renewal Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labour Department
BETTY MARKET
Betty’s Plaza, Kew Town Providenciales Telephone: 342-9699
STORE HELPER
Clean the store every morning, upheld safe and clean working environment, cleans customer bathroom, loading and unloading of goods. Assisting during sales. Pay: 6.25 per hour.
FIRST TIME. THIS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE 24658
L&S CONSTRUCTION COMPANY #1 Spring Water, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a
MAINTENANCE MAN
Fix and maintain mechanical equipment, buildings, and machines. Tasks include plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system. Salary: $10 hourly
CONTACT: 241-7557
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24630
V A C A N C Y
FIELD ENGINEER PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE JOB: • Responsible for the operation and maintenance of all RBS, Power and Transmission equipment within a specific region to achieve 100% availability of all Cell Sites • Monitoring of all environmental factors, buildings and grounds to include earth connections and measurements at Digicel sites in a specific region • Escalation & follow through of all anomalies to relevant departments • Scheduling of preventative maintenance rosters • Coordination of all site related work and projects • Coordination with MSC & Transmission engineer on outage solutions • On-call support for after hours outages & planned works as required MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Maintain inventory of RBS, Test and Transmission equipment • Monitor Return & Replace process, tracking RMA number & return date with Ericsson • Oversee generator maintenance • Liaise with equipment suppliers and maintenance contractors as required • Generate & submit Planned Works for service affecting network activity in a timely manner • Provide feedback on network performance as observed in day to day activities to MSC engineers • Assist other departments with troubleshooting & engineering support as required • Provide callout function & network support as required ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR JOB: • Diploma in telecommunications/electronics or equivalent • Minimum one (1) year experience in maintenance of telecommunications network • Detailed working knowledge of Microwave transmission systems, radio transmitters • Detailed working knowledge of DC and AC power systems • Detailed working knowledge of GSM radio telephony operations • Detailed working knowledge of associated test equipment FUNCTIONAL SKILLS:
• Good interpersonal and communication skills • Excellent leadership skills/qualities, • Ability to work unsupervised and handle multiple priority assignments simultaneously DEADLINE:
Positions open to all qualified Turks and Caicos nationals. Interested applicants can forward their resumes to https://careers.digicelgroup.com The closing date for applications is March 25th, 2021 24611
30 CLASSIFIEDS LJ CONTRACTING SERVICES #5 KASS ROAD, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a
MASON
Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. Salary: $10 hourly
CONTACT: 649-331-8546
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24624
THE TUSCANY RESORT
Grace Bay Beach Road Providenciales Turks & Caicos Island Tel: 941-4667 terria@thetuscanyresort.com is looking for a
TECHNICIAN
to work five (5) days a week. Salary $6.25 per hour. RENEWAL PERMIT. JOB DESCRIPTION: FIX AC, PLUMBER, ELECTRICAL 24612
TOP CLASS SECURITY #2 HAMPTON LANE, BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a
10 SECURITY OFFICERS
Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry. Obtains help by sounding alarms. Salary: $8 hourly
CONTACT: 244-3319
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24650
PROVO STEVEDORING LIMITED is seeking to employ a
JANITOR
QUALIFICATIONS Clean Police Record COMPENSATION Approximately $7.00 per Hour POSITION TYPE Full-Time LOCATION Providenciales
PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO MAIN OFFICE AT PROVO STEVEDORING LIMITED, SOUTH DOCK PORT PROVIDENCIALES TCI. VIA FAX (649) 946-4828 OR EMAIL: MWTENN@PROVOSTEVEDORING.COM
24625
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
ANANDA LTD. AV
Butterfield Drive has an immediate opening for a Labourer; this position is currently held by a work permit holder.
WAREHOUSE LABOURERS
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS POSITION INCLUDE: • Heavy lifting • Assist customers in placing goods purchased onto delivery truck/van • Maintain safe and clean work environment • Placing goods purchased
onto customers truck/van
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum 2 years experience as a Labourer with the ability to communicate effectively. SALARY: $9.50 - $10.00 per hour.
Please submit an application no later than Friday, March 26th, 2021 to: ANANDA LTD., LEEWARD HWY, PROVIDENCIALES. TEL: 339-4663 EMAIL: JOBS@KBHOMECENTER.COM 24624
THE TERRACE RESTAURANT
GRACE BAY ROAD, GRACE BAY Is seeking to employ a
DISHWASHER
Washes dishes and keeps kitchen area clean. Salary: $400 weekly CONTACT: 649-946-5396 OR 649-432-1025
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24608
THE ROSE GARDEN/ ORMARI’S RENTAL #406 Millennium Highway, Back Road, Blue Hills
DOMESTIC WORKER - 6.25 HOURLY
CLEANING LABOURER
- $6.25 HOURLY Cleaning the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.
MAID/LAUNDERER
- $6.25 HOURLY Cleaning rooms and laundering sheets and clothing.
CONTACT: 241-1429
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently holds these positions 24634
TROPICANA UPHOLSTERY
TURTLE COVE, PROVIDENCIALES, (TCI) Seeking employment for the following
1) LABOURER Applicants duties are to bring and carry items to our customers etc. Salaries is $6:50 per hrs. Hours of work are 8hrs per day and 5 days per week. Positions is vacant and Belongers are encourage to apply for the positions. Interested candidate may contact 1 (649) 244 7033 or the Employment Services, Labour Department, Providenciales, (TCI) regarding employment 24603
PLUMB LINE CONSTRUCTION #270 South Dock Road Is seeking to employ a
CARPENTER
• Follow blueprints and building plans. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials. • To work 5 days a week. Salary: $12 hourly
CONTACT: 232-1970
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24605
MERLINE VARIETY STORE
MS &J TIRE SHOP
DOMESTIC WORKER
LABOURER
GRANNY HILL, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a
Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.50 hourly
CONTACT: 649-344-6135
CONTACT: 242-6120
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24617
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 345-3682
CONTACT: 245-4805
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24696
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24618
J & W CONSTRUCTION LTD
SKY VARIETY STORE
SAMY PIERRE-LOUIS/ TERMA CATERING DELIGHT SERVICES
Unit#9 Storage Office Building, Long Bay Road, 231-4519
CONSTRUCTION LABOURER (5) & CARPENTER (1)
Starting Salary $6.50 $9.00 per hour. Clean construction sites, form-work, install doors & windows etc ALL POSITIONS ARE CURRENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS. QUALIFIED BELONGERS MAY APPLY WITH LABOUR DEPARTMENT
24636
Walter Cox Dr., Kew Town Is seeking to employ a
STORE CLEANER/ HELPER
Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 241-8047
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24645
UNIQUE TOURS & RENTALS
EQUINE HANDLER
• Ensure that each horse is properly excerised, receiving adequate care and ready for work. • Watching their charges closely for soundness and health changes. • Administering prescribed medications. Salary: $1,200 monthly
HORSE CARETAKER/
FERMER
• Executes equine feeding according to each equine’s dietary plan. Feeds the herd their breakfast (up to) 7 days a week, including one weekend day and some holidays. • Responsible for making sure every equine has a clean and plentiful water supply at all times. Salary: $1,200 monthly
CONTACT: 441-8687
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently holds these positions 24623
ONE STOP CONSTRUCTION
Waterloo Plaza, Grand Turk. Is seeking a
SALES/OPERATIONS ANALYST Duties include providing operational support on financial, administrative and conceptual aspects of the company through budgeting, reporting, reviewing, estimates and analysing. Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Salary $3,600.00 per month
PLEASE CONTACT: 6499461278 24635
#6 Dump Road, Blue Hills
DOMESTIC WORKER
- $6.25 HOURLY Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, and other housework.
COOK - $10 HOURLY
Setting up workstations. Preparing ingredients, cutting meat etc. Cooking food.
BAKER - $10 HOURLY
Baking cakes and desserts.
CONTACT: 341-8332
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24615
GLENDA MERCEDES SMITH
BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS. Is seeking to employ a
PARKER ALLAN MANION
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly
NATE LIGHTBOURNE
Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24614
Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
#8 MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a
Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Duties: To clean property, to trim Trees, remove all debris and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.
CONTACT: 343-0030
Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is a first work permit application. 24654
ONE STOP SUPPLIES
6A TOWN PLAZA, INDUSTRIAL DRIVE, PROVO
6A TOWN PLAZA, INDUSTRIAL DRIVE, PROVO
ROOFER/ GUTTERER
RECEIVING CLERK
- must be able to install both roof and gutters, willing to work 6 days of the week. Salary begins at $6.50 an hour. Position currently held by a work permit holder
CONTACT: 243-1019
belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labour Department
24638
- must be proficient in logistics, inventory management, willing to work 6 days out of the week. Salary commences with experience. Position currently held by a work permit holder.
CONTACT: 243-1019
Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department 24637
March 16-22, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS 31
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NINJA CONSTRUCTION
OLABASI LTD
#1 Palm Circle, Leeward Palms Is seeking to employ a
#12 UNIVERSAL DRIVE, UNIT 2, PROVIDENCIALES is seeking to employ an
MASON - $10 HOURLY
INVENTORY STOCK HOLDER
Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters
LABOURER - $6.25 HOURLY Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site.
CONTACT: 231-0538
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board Work permit holders currently holds this positions 24616
HANDYMAN CONTRACTS
RUTH’S BEAUTY SALON
LABOURER
HAIRSTYLIST
West Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
Duties: To help skilled workers, To clean properties at days end and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.
CONTACT: 241-4378
Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder. 24647
VR SUPERMART #11 MARY JANE LANE, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a
CASHIER Greets customers, receive
payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change. Salary: $6.50 hourly
Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, though they may also provide hair treatments, including deep conditioning, permanents, hair coloring, and weaving. Salary: $9 hourly
CONTACT: 245-9136
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24619
Salary: $10/hour
The candidate will manage the warehouse inventory, repair blenders, deliver product, invoice customers. Must have small appliance repair experience, be able to lift 50 lbs, invoice using Quickbooks, have valid drivers’ license, good customer service skills. SEND RESUMES TO: TCIMGMTCONSULTANTS@GMAIL. COM. OR CONTACT: 649-2312603. A WORK PERMIT HOLDER CURRENTLY HOLDS THIS POSITION
24639
RCO LTD
#353 GRACE BAY ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking a
WAITRESS
- $6.50 hourly Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment. Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.
CONTACT: 241-6698
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 24632
5A Windwood Drive, Leeward Highway
EXPERIENCED RN
REQUIRED BY MEDICAL PRACTICE: 1. Full time, holidays, nights 2. Must have at least 5 years’ experience 3. Assist doctors in general practice 4. Good clinical nursing skills and bedside manner 5. Able to multitask
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labor Board. Belongers only need apply. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.
BOHIO DIVE RESORT
BOHIO DIVE RESORT
KITCHEN HELPER
HOUSEKEEPER / CHAMBERMAID
PLEASE EMAIL: INFO@ BOHIORESORT.COM
24663
94667
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24606
DUTIES INCLUDE: • cleaning public areas, guest rooms, laundry and kitchen • washing floors, walls, windows, washrooms and toilets • daily cleaning of guest rooms including washing floors, walls, windows, washrooms, dishes, toilets and showers • laundry service for all items
We are looking for an enthusiastic Bartender to provide an excellent guest drinking experience. Good Bartenders will be able to create classic and innovative drinks exceeding customers’ needs and expectations. GENERAL JOB DUTIES BUT NOT LIMITED TO: • Prepare alcohol or non-alcohol beverages for bar and restaurant patrons. • Interact with customers, take orders, and serve snacks and drinks. Assist with meal service as needed, • Assess customers’ needs and preferences and make recommendations. • Plan and present bar menu and Mix ingredients to prepare cocktails. • Process payment including room charge as per policy. • Restock and replenish bar inventory and supplies. • Stay guest focused and nurture an excellent guest experience. • Comply with all food and beverage regulations. JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Resume and proven working experience as a Bartender. • Excellent knowledge of in mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks. • Computer literacy • Positive attitude and excellent communication skills • Ability to keep the bar organized, stocked and clean. • Relevant training certificate Salary commensurate with experience starting at $7.50 per hour. Other Available Job positions:
JOB SUMMARY: Provide elite dining service to in-house and visiting guests to include but not limited to welcoming and escorting guests; food & beverage menu presentation and order taking; table service and maintenance with grace and finesse; and foster memorable dining experiences. Work as beach waiter as needed.
EMAIL: KATHLEENCANNON@GMAIL.COM NO LATER THAN JUNE 26, 2021.
general cleaning of kitchen and storage rooms assist with food preparation wash floors , walls, utensils and dishes English - verbal & written working hours Monday Sunday including Holidays based on shift schedule must be available to start at 6 am hours based on weekly schedule. $6.25 per hour. This position is for a work permit renewal
BARTENDER
WAITER
ASSOCIATED MEDICAL
CONTACT: 346-0002
GRAND TURK
Windsong Resort, located on Stubbs Road, Grace Bay is seeking suitable and qualified applicants to fill the following positions:
including bedding, towels, uniforms and guest laundry • must have pleasant personality and ability to adjust to guest’s needs • must be able to lift 30 lbs. laundry bags • English - verbal and written • must be able to start at 6 am, hours based on weekly schedule Wage $6.25 per hour
THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT
224662
JOB REQUIREMENTS: • A minimum of 4 years working experience at a reputable full-service restaurant • Proven track record of the ability to work alone and handle a fast-paced environment. • Professional certifications will constitute an advantage. Salary range - $6.50 $6.75 per hour. • Housekeeper Reliever/ Turndown Service Attendants and Domestic Worker JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Minimum of 2-3 years in the specialized field. Ability to lift to 55 pounds. • Excellent written and communication skills. Reading and writing English is a must with the ability to complete Housekeeping daily worksheets. Candidates must be flexible to work nights, weekends, and holidays. • Salary $6.25 per hour. Some Positions are available on a Part-Time basis. Prospective applicants who are Belongers are asked to send copies of your applications to the Labor Board. Qualified Belongers should apply. Salary commensurate with experience. Email resume and cover letter to admin@ windsongresort.com. Only Shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
32 CLASSIFIEDS
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
VEHICLES FOR SALE
MARCENE JEAN
Mystique Car Rental &Tours, 72 0ld Airport Road (649) 941-3910, (649) 946-4864
LABOURER
# 7529 Chevrolet Suburban 2009 White $18,000.00
#7515 Ford Fiesta 2011 White $5,000.00
# 7833 Town & Country 2012 Chrysler Silver $8,800.00
#7768 Grand Caravan 2010 Dodge Blue $8,500.00
# 29, MIRADE CLOSE Blue Hills, 343-2227
JUDITH ROBINSON Hospital Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
LIVE-IN CAREGIVER
Cleaning outside the property, Pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames, Cares for the garden on a daily basis. Salary: $6.25 per hour.
RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.
24660
Must have experience in taking care of elderly persons. Must work long hours. Responsible to ensure home is kept clean, able to prepare healthy meals daily and administer medication to elderly. Salary: $8 hourly
CONTACT: 231-2950
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
24651
L.A.F. CONSTRUCTION #87 MARBY DRIVE, JUBA SOUND Is seeking to employ a
PAINTER
Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. Salary: $10 hourly
CONTACT: 343-6168
This position is for a first time applicant Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24463
JOB POSITIONS LABOURER (5 years’ experience ) full time position. Minor repairs, keeping compound clean from debris. Salary $8.00 per hour
GARDENERS 2 # 6898 Nissan Note 2010 Red $6,000.00
#6858 Nissan Note 2010 Grey $6,000.00
(5 years’ experience) full-time position. Resort experience in maintaining the beauty and health of plants, flowers, outdoor grounds and trees on Pine Cay. General maintenance tasks including designing, producing, renewing and preserving outdoor spaces. In depth knowledge of plants species, pests, fertilizer, pruning and water guide. Salary $8.00 per hour
HOUSEMAN # 7769 Grand Caravan 2010 Dodge Black $7,000.00
#7836 Town & Country 2012 Chrysler Silver $7,000.00
# 7328 Daihatsu Sirion 2009 Yellow $3,500.00
# 7835 Town & Country 2012 Chrysler Black $ 7,500.00
(5 years’ experience) in a luxury resort environment. Knowledge of related cleaning products and the correct usage. Assist in the daily operation of hotel & villa housekeeping duties. Some heavy lifting may be required. Some shifts may require staying on Pine Cay. Salary $8.00 per hour
SECURITY SPECIALIST K9 HANDLER/TRAINER (10 years’ experience) in military or law enforcement. Patrolling the Cay with K9 security dogs. Responsible for the care and training of dogs, security bag checks, check in/out any contractors, monitor, review and repair security cameras, respond to incidents at all hours/anytime. Must be prepared to work evenings, holidays and weekends. Must have first responder and firefighting training certificates. Be able to instruct and use K-9 search, apprehend and safely detain persons involved in or attempting criminal activities. Protect all property of the island, including homeowners, guests and staff. Salary commensurate with experience
HOTEL FRONT DESK AGENT #8128 Suzuki Alto 2010 Burgundy $3,000.00
#7011 Toyota Passo 2009 Black $3,500.00
(5 years’ experience) guest service experience in a luxury resort environment. P.O.S. experience a must. Night audit or accounting knowledge would be an asset. A second language would be preferred by not mandatory. Some shifts may require you to stay on Pine Cay. Salary $8.00 per hour
FINE DINING SERVERS
(5 years’ experience) fine dining experience in a luxury resort environment. Wine knowledge an asset. Required to stay on Pine Cay during shifts. Salary $8.00 per hour
#7010 Toyota Passo 2009 White $3,500.00
#7767 Grand Caravan 2010 Black $9,500.00
These positions are for first time applicants. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interested applicants can email their resume to: resort@ meridianclub.com Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
REEF RESIDENCE RESORT
Coral Gardens, Lower Bight Is seeking to employ a
HOUSEKEEPER Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 432-1480
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position
24665
PHILEMON JENNINGS GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 331 9952
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24664
TASTY SWEETS
Is seeking applications for:
KITCHEN HELPERS
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: • Assists with food preparation. • Cleans/washes all kitchen appliances and work surfaces. • Cleans all food handling, food storage area. • Removes all garbage from kitchen. • Maintains kitchen, floor, tables in a clean and dry condition at all times.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: • Secondary Level Education in Food Preparation • Must have at least 3 years experience in a food service establishment. • Strong interest in food. • Ability to carry out tasks quickly and competently. • Ability to follow instructions. • Good spoken communication skills. Salary rate is $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: Tel: 649-2432869. Email: islandbikes@hotmail.com
BELONGERS are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 94666
ADVERTISE
IN THIS SPACE! ONLY
$33
PER WEEK
CLASSIFIEDS 33
PUBLIC NOTICE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION
CALL 946-4664
(SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
MR. GROUPER RESTAURANT #73 PRINCESS DRIVE, LOWER BIGHT Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
• Assist with food preparation, cooking, meal service as assigned. • Assists with preparation for and distribution of daily snacks as assigned. • Clean all dishes and utensils after every meal. Salary: $6.50 per hour
CONTACT: 649-241-5563 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24661
Take notice that I, Nigel Dakin, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Doreen Claudia Barrows by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.01
NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 50110/12 SANDY POINT NORTH CAICOS Whereas, GARY ARNOLD HODGKINS of 13545 111th STREET, FELLSMERE, FLORIDA, USA, has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) issued in the name of GARY ARNOLD HODGKINS was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found. Take notice that I, Toni-Ann Foster, Acting Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette. Dated this 17th day of February 2021.
RESORT ASSISTANT MANAGER PORTS OF CALL IS SEEKING TO HIRE AN ASSISTANT MANAGER
DUTIES TO INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO: • Assist Resort Manager with the daily operations of the resort incl overseeing various department supervisors and guest relations. • Oversee the operation of the 3 villas. • Oversee the operation of the retail plaza. • Manage human resource duties for approx 35 team members. • Handle small product pickups and deliveries . • Other duties as required. Applicants must have a minimum of 3 yrs hotel supervisory or management experience, have strong organizational, communication and computer skills, be willing to work 11 days in a two week shift and have full-time access to a personal vehicle. SALARY AND BONUS PACKAGE TO REFLECT QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION LEVEL AND EXPERIENCE
Resumes should be sent to dpapke@portsofcallresort.com or dropped off at the resort.
Signed ............................................................................................. Witnessed ....................................................................................... 24493
THIS IS NOT A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL AD-POSITION TO START APRIL 3/21
34 CLASSIFIEDS CURTIS ANTHONY LIGHTBOURNE Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
• Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. Cares for garden on a daily basis • Must be willing to work 5 days per week Salary: $7.00 per hour
BARBARA VIRGIL 298A PALM CIRCLE LEEWARD PALMS Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
General and maintenance duties around the property Salary $275.00 per week. Must be willing to work Monday – Friday 7:00am – 2:00pm
CONTACT: 231-2972
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24551
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is held by a work permit holder 24560
GOOD TASTE WHOLESALE & RETAIL
GLOBAL UNITED TURKS AND CAICOS EMPLOYMENT
CONTACT: 231-3116
#87 Walkin Plaza, Five Cays
DOMESTIC WORKER
• Sweeping, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms. • To work 5 days a week Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 345-2061
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds the positions 24524
Flamingo Crossing, Long Bay Is seeking to employ a
2 CHEFS/COOKS
Setting up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment. Preparing ingredients to use in cooking chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food.
MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN
Maintenance of homes/ buildings. Salaries Commensurate on qualifications/ experience
CONTACT: 246-6157
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24575
BETTY’S UNISEX
BETTY’S PLAZA, KEW TOWN PROVIDENCIALES 649-342-1055
BARBER
Cutting & Trimming. Shape Eye brows. Trimming beards or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers and other instruments. Pay: 6.25 per hour
DUJOHN FULFORD
28 Oyster Lane, The Bight Is seeking to employ a
CLEANER
Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 333-1246
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
24570
flowers for weddings, funerals etc. Must be available to work outdoors and irregular hours. Possess two years experience in floral retail using POS Systems. Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public. Starting salary commensurate with experience.
STOCKER
Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 346-7379
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24565
50 LAZY EIGHT, VENETIAN ROAD Is seeking to employ a
CARETAKER Help the patient get dressed,
eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications. Salary: $350 weekly
CONTACT: 333-0617
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24573
Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
DOMESTIC WORKER
• Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. • To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 hourly
CONTACT: 241-4378
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24568
D’DIVA SALON
OLD AIRPORT ROAD, DOWN TOWN Is seeking to employ a
NAIL TECHNICIAN
Nail and hand services to customers, such as basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 345-8242
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24536
FOUR J’S CLOTHING STORE
RODEMIDE JOSEPH Residence, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a
BABYSITTER
• Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. • To work 5 days a week. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 348-8986
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24566
#8 BUTTERFLY CLOSE, GLASS SHACK Is seeking to employ a
DOMESTIC WORKER
Cleaning and washing. Salary: $6.25 hourly CONTACT: 348-4357
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24572
DAVETRIA MORRIS
CLOSE TO THE ROUNDABOUT, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a
BABYSITTER
• Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. • To work 5 days a week. Salary: $6.50 hourly
CONTACT: 343-0484
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24589
GUSTAVUS FRANCIS
Unit #5 Ronnie Plaza, Blue Hills. Is seeking to employ a
#49 HORIZON CLOSE,BLUE MOUNTAIN, PROVIDENCIALES
Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change. Salary: $6.25 hourly
Duties: clean around the yard and minor repairs around the house. Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour
SALES LADY
CONTACT: 347-6125
Interested applicants including Islanders/Belongers can bring all applications to EA Services Ltd. located at #65 Beechwood Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales or e-mail to yvonne@eagrouptci.com. Successful applicants will be notified by phone for an interview. This position is currently held by work permit holders. 24532
SANDRA LIGHTBOURNE
over the past five years • Basic knowledge of trouble shooting regular mechanical issues • Excellent communication skills in English with the ability to write legibly and compute simple mathematics Salary: Starts at $10 per hour for 44-hour workweek.
ER CLEANING SERVICES LTD
24579
FLORIST
Walter Cox Dr., Kew Town Is seeking to employ a
*DRIVER POSITION AVAILABLE
GENERAL DUTIES: • Ability to drive and operate containerized Hammar Lift Trucks to transport cargo to/ from the Port to Warehouse/ Customers • Cleaning & daily maintenance of all motorized equipment • Requirements: • Valid TCI driver’s license and proof of safe driving record
Please contact Cargo Express Services, in person, at 70 South Dock Road, Providenciales or email application to bkerr@tropical.com Application deadline: March 12, 2021 *Position is held by a work permit holder 24576
FLOWERS BY EA
SKY VARIETY STORE
CATHERINE WILLIAMS
CARGO EXPRESS SERVICES LTD
FIRST TIME APPLICATION/ RENEWAL. BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE
Unit 101A West Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, B.W.I. T. 649-941-5621
Applicants must possess a minimum of two years experience as a Floral Assistant or Florist. Must have extensive knowledge of tropical flowers, foliage and potted plants, including their names, seasonal availability and lifespan. Candidates must have experience using current styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
24585
PIZZA PIZZA
MAUREEN GIBSON
BUTCHER
MASON
Grace Bay Rd., Grace Bay Is seeking to employ a
Cutting and organizing meat. Salary: $7 hourly
CONTACT: 232-1068
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24584
NEXT TO ROCK OF JESUS, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a
Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. Salary: $8 hourly
CONTACT: 247-2749
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24537
LABOURER
CONTACT: 649-241-6040 OR EMAIL: POOHBEAR_2314@HOTMAIL.COM
This position is for work permit renewal qualified Belongers are asked to submit a copy of their resume to The Labour Department
24559
MARTINEZ AUTO REPAIRS Alsie #20, South Dock Is seeking to employ a
MECHANIC
• Keeps equipment available for use by inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotation and changes, wheel balancing, replacing filters. • To work 6 days a week. Salary: $10 hourly
CONTACT: 243-6823
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board
24539
March 16-22, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS 35
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
1 AUTOCAD DRAFTSMAN PAY SET AT $15 PER HOUR Hours of Work: Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
DRAFTSMAN JOB DUTIES • Designs construction projects by studying project concept, architectural drawings and models • Determines project costs by calculating labor, material and related costs • Prepares feasibility study by analyzing designs; conducting environmental
impact studies • Performing calculations for materials and weight limitations. • Communicating with architects and engineers, and incorporating knowledge gained into drawings. • Ensuring final designs are compliant with building regulations.
25 Academy Way, Downtown, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Phone: 2312497 Email: coxrussell60@hotmail.com This position is presently held by a permit holder. 24535
PATRICK BIEN AIME GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 247 1669
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24546
LICELE FORTUNE GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ
ONE DOMESTIC WORKER
His job is to sweep the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, living room, laundering sheets. Salary: $6. 00per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 242 5990
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder
24545
LABOURER
Salary $9/ hour Several years of knowledge and experience working in the kitchen in a casino environment. Excellent physical condition is required. Job summary: washing dishes, cleaning, prep for bar back up, stock refill, preparation of food, assist in delivery preparation and stock.
JOHANA BIEN AIMÉ GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 243 07 50
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24547
Email: cynthia@gracebaymedical.com phone: 649-941-5252 Fax: 649-946-8243.
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 232-8066
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24563
CASHIER - $7 HOURLY
KIRKLEY PARKER Overback, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
TILEMAN
Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change.
Install materials on floors, walls, ceilings, countertops. Level the surface with a layer of mortar or plywood. Salary: $400 weekly
CONTACT: 243-8302
CONTACT: 246-2661
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24590
FABIAN THOMAS GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 243 74 88
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24548
HANDYMAN REPAIRS
REGISTERED NURSE
M&S CRAFT
Salary $12/hour All candidates should have at least 10 years’ casino experience, full knowledge of all casino table games and excellent knowledge of Dice table game. Job summary: carry out specific tasks in the gaming operation to the highest standard of efficiency and customer service in accordance with gaming policies and procedures laid down by the company and gaming laws.
DETENTION CENTER RD., FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a
REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES • Bachelors Degree in nursing • Current registration with the Health Professions Authority in TCI • Minimum of 5 years work experience in a fast-paced Urgent Care practice and hotel setting • Practical skills to include but not limited to IV therapy, venipuncture, injections, vitals, dressings, ECG, sterilization protocol and how to operate the machine. • setting up for, assisting doctors with procedures and examination • able to work with little or no supervision to ensure proper flow of patients • Computer knowledge, action patients results, update and maintain patients EMR file Monthly salary $3000.00 to $4000.00 depending on experience. Belongers only need to apply. Position currently held by work permit holder
#4 NEW SUBDIVISION, FIVE CAYS
DICE DEALER
MUST BE WILLING TO WORK NIGHT SHIFT, WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. Deliver or email resume to Casablanca Casino, 226 Grace Bay Rd, Providenciales, Tel: 941-3737, email: info@casablanca.tc Positions held by work permit holders24534
GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER
Hospital Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
FIVE CAYS ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
#30 Neptune Plaza, Providenciales TCI. Is seeking to employ a
MALCOLM SMITH
CLUB ZODIAC
CASABLANCA CASINO
VISION DESIGNS ARCHITECTS
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24540
LABOURER Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $300 weekly
CONTACT: 241-1578
D&M CONSTRUCTION GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
WAITRESS
Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment. Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 331-6258
This position is for work permit renewal. Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 24571
CORE MOBILITY DBA SIXT RENT-A-CAR
Blue Heron Drive, South Dock Is seeking a
CAR WASH ATTENDANT
MASON
Working 6 days during the week. Salary: $7 per hourly
CONTACT: (649) 245 64 39
Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24544
BLESSING DELIVERY SERVICES Five Cays, Providenciales 342-1055
HELPER To clean all areas
within the yard, clean the gutters, trim down the trees in the yard, Sweeping and removing debris from outside, water the plants and assist with other cleaner work around the property. Salary starts at $6.25 per hour.
• To wash, scrub and polish the interiors and exteriors of car suv’s and buses to protect their appearance • Vacuum, clean and maintain vehicles. • 6 days a week Salary: $6.25 hourly CONTACT: 941-3966 EMAIL: RESERVATIONS@SIXT.TC Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. This position is for a first time applicant 24587
J.C WALKIN BAR & RESTAURANT Norway Rd., Kew Town Is seeking to employ a
BARTENDER
• Uphold customer service • Maintain Bar • Mix and serve drinks Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 242-8861
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24569
FIRST TIME, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.
24578
24567
D&D BETTER BRAIDS
JEANCIUS LECLERE
JEAN-CLAUDE DEMILUS TIRESIAS
BACK SALINA, GRAND TURK IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A
HAIR BRAIDER
BRAIDING, WEAVING, RELAXING LOC, GROOMING AND MAINTENANCE CUTTING, TRIMMING AND STYLING. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK. SALARY $6.50 PER HR.
CONTACT: 241-4378
RENEWAL OF WORK PERMIT 24562
Lower Bight, The Bight Is seeking to employ a
BABYSITTER
Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 341-0144
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board
24588
Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.50 hourly
CONTACT: 232-9261
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position
24541
36 CLASSIFIEDS P&D EMPLOYMENT
TCI PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS SERVICES
CARIBBEAN CONSTRUCTION BUILDERS
HAIRTASTIC BEAUTY SUPPLY STORE
Acting on behalf of
#99 Leeward highway Contact: 946-5907
SITE MANAGER - $12 hourly
Supervising worksite and workers. Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24601
CRABTREE AUTO RENTALS Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
MECHANIC
Duties: To Fixing and/ or repair vehicles and Ensuring they are in road worthiness Standard and any other duties as assigned By management. SALARY: $10.00 per hour
CONTACT: 245-5948
Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24558
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
COSMETOLOGIST
(treatment to hair, skin & nails ) 631 Blue Hills, $8 hourly, 344-1778 Position Held by Work Permit Holder
IN THIS SPACE!
$33
PER WEEK
(care for 3 kids & Chores) $ 6.75 hourly, 343-2283, Bible Street, Blue Hills, Apt #1
CALL 946-4664
POSITION HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDER
Applicants must have knowledge of finance, accounting, cash flow projection and proficient in using POS systems for landscape, chemical and fertilization inventory. Ability to analyze financial data and prepare automated financial reports, statements and projections. Work requires professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills to deal with customers and suppliers. Salary is approximately $900/week and willing to work long hours, weekends and holidays if needed. Preference will be given to applicants who have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy, Finance or Business Administration. Excellent reference from previous employers is a must.
ONLY
CHERLINE AMY
LIVE-IN NANNY
Interested applicants including Islanders/Belongers can send applications to Services by EA by e-mail to yvonne@eagrouptci.com. Successful applicants will be notified by phone for an interview. This position is currently held by work permit holders. 24533
24580
BETTY MISICK-FRANCIS Over Back, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
DOMESTIC WORKER
Duties: Regular housekeeping. Which includes Cleaning, mopping. Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.
CONTACT: 247-1191
Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24553
NURSERY MANAGER
ADVERTISE
ALLAN PARKER
NORTH BACK SALINA GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, also to trim hedges and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.
CONTACT: 246-6120
Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is a first time work permit application.
24554
TURKS & CAICOS REALTY LTD. Is seeking a Part-time
DOMESTIC WORKER
Duties to include but not limited to: • General office and household cleaning and maintenance • Occasional child care and pet care • Catering and shopping services on call • Laundry and delivery
services • Hourly rate $10. Minimum of 10 hours per week • Must speak and read English • Must have own transportation and cell phone • Must have a minimum of 10 years’ experience
THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL INTERESTED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGE TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT PLEASE SEND RESUME TO INFO@TCSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM PO BOX 279, VENTURE HOUSE, GRACE BAY RD. PHONE: 649.946.4474 24543
TRANQUILITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT #17 SAILFISH LANE, VENETIAN ROAD, Provo Is seeking a
MAINTENANCE WORKER
To clean the septic, repair some minor issues, cistern, and gutter systems clean and disinfected, maintain cleanliness of properties, wash windows, etc. Car required. Must speak English, Spanish. Salary: $6.50 hourly CONTACT: 231-1474 EMAIL: TRANQUILITYTCI@GMAIL.COM P.O. Box 433, Providenciales Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24527
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS OLYMPIC CONSTRUCTION LTD.
QUALITY FOOD SERVICES
WATERLOO PLAZA COMPLEX, GRAND TURK, TCI. is looking for
STEEL FIXERS
Setting out the work area, tying rebar, fitting spacers and ‘chairs’, fixing steel to concrete bases, etc. Salary: $9.00 per hour
CARPENTERS / FINISHING CARPENTERS
Prepare drawings for cabinetry, framing and other construction projects on-site. Build cabinets, vanities, tub and shower surrounds, Install cabinets, counters and molding, etc. Reads and follow blueprints. Salary: starts at $9.00 per hour
LABOURERS / HANDY MAN
Cleaning-up on site, garbage disposal, maintenance works. Lifting and packing site material as directed.
Salary: starts at $7.00 per hour Must have at least 5 years experience as laborer on a construction site. Expert in using power and hand tools.
78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Are now interviewing for the following position:
FROZEN FOOD SERVICE ORDER PICKER
PROJECT MANAGER/PROJECT DIRECTOR
Must have at least 25 years experience. Member of Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB). NVQ Level 5 Graduate or BS Civil Engineering or Equivalent Responsible in construction management and implementation, organizing & co-facilitating sessions, dealing project planning and scheduling Salary Range: Remuneration Commensurate with Skill
CONTACT: Tel: 649-946-1278 / 1275 Fax:649-946-1101 / Email: info@olympic.tc Positions currently held by work permit holders. BELONGERS are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24583
• Must have at least (2) years experience working with both Dry and Perishable Food Service Products. Must be able to identify these products, including, but not limited to, different cuts of meat such as pork, chicken, beef and as well seafood and other frozen and dry food service products. Must be able to read and write English and to be familiar with the different pack sizes and brand names as well. • Must have a sense of urgency and be able to work under limited time constraints. • Picks orders regularly throughout the day for Food Service Customers, mostly restaurants. • Must be able to lift 65 pounds or more regularly throughout the shift. • Must be willing and able to work extended periods of time in a FREEZER ENVIRONMENT up to 70% of the time, temperature is minus (10) degrees Fahrenheit or minus (23) Celsius. • Must be willing and available to work extended hours, including all and/or any holidays, nights and weekends. The majority of the work schedule will consist of evening, weekend and holiday hours as this is when our business is servicing the most amount of customers. • Must be able to stand the majority of the day. Compensation starts at $6.25 per hour.
Please apply within @ Quality Food Service, 78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays or contact 941-7939 for more information. Only Belongers or PRC Holders need apply.
24586
March 16-22, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS 37
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
SUNSET CAFÉ BAR & GRILL
TABOO’S 24H BAR AND RESTAURANT
TECHLOGIC
Building #64 Airport Road
32B Loney’s Place, Airport Road, Provo Is seeking to employ a
BARTENDER - $8 HOURLY
• To ensure the bar area is kept clean at all times. • Mix and serve drinks to the customers. Salary: $350 weekly
CONTACT: 231-6318
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24574
TRANQUILITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
#17 SAILFISH LANE, VENETIAN ROAD, Provo Is seeking a
MAID
• Cleaning rooms • 3 years min experience working with villa rental turnover protocols, evening and weekend work a must. English and Spanish required. Car required. Salary: $6.50 hourly
WAITRESS - $7 HOURLY
Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment. Check with
CLEANER
• Cleaning rooms • 3 years min experience working with villa rental turnover protocols, evening and weekend work a must. English and Spanish required. Car required. Salary: $6.25 hourly
PAINTER
VILLA DEL MAR
ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT
Bonaventure Cres, Grace Bay Contact 649-941-5160
HOUSEKEEPER $7.50 P/H Perform daily clean
GARDENING SUPERVISOR $8.50P/H Maintain ground area
DALVEM LTD.
Turtle tail, Providenciales CONTACT 231-1654
DOMESTIC WORKER - $6.25P/H Providing regular housekeeping.
Belonger are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the labour board. These position is currently held by work permit holder 24577
#74 Five Cays, Providenciales Tel: 946-5855. Is seeking to employ:
DOMESTIC WORKER
ASSISTANT CHEF
- To prep and prepare Haitian Cuisines - Assist with daily functions of kitchen - Manage orders with vendors in Haiti - Shop locally for local supplies - Prep and clean kitchen - Must be fluent in English and Creole Salary $8 hourly 6 days a week Belongers are encouraged to submit resume to Labor Department or email: hello@thekforce.com This position is being advertised for a work permit application.
WALKER CONSTRUCTION
MASON - $8 HOURLY
Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters
CARPENTER - $8 HOURLY
Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials
CONTACT: 231-0360
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds these positions 24538
GENERAL MANAGER
corrective actions if needed. • Proficiency in Business Accounting / HR • Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically, Microsoft Dynamics Navision, Microsoft Excel, and Inventory control management. • Candidate must be multilingual. • Work schedule will include weekends, holidays, as required to meet the demands of the position. Remuneration/Benefits commensurate with experience.
RESUMES SHOULD BE DELIVERED TO THE LABOUR BOARD AND EMAILED TO CESAR.GUERRA@GT.DUFRY.COM. DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS MARCH 31ST, 2021 THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER
MICHAEL C. BASDEN West Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
LABOURER
24591
24593
BENNETT GARDINER
LANDING ROAD, KEW, NORTH CAICOS Phone: 246-4537
MAINTENANCE WORKER – Salary $7.50 per hour
- clean construction debris - clean windows and doors - keep work areas clean - general cleaning for new build. $6.50 per hour
Clean yards, upkeep of properties/buildings.
BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD OR EMAIL: HELLO@THEKFORCE.COM
POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGERS APPLY WITH LABOUR EMPLOYMENT DEPARTMENT 24581
24582
24582
IDALIA ASTWOOD / MILLENIUM CONSTRUCTION Over Back, Grand Turk. Is seeking to employ a
CARPENTER
Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, also to trim hedges and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.
Duties: To Install Structures and fixtures, Doors, Windows, install roofing System and must be able to use electrical tools. Salary: $8.00 per hour
CONTACT: 246-6120
CONTACT: 243-0591
E & V CONSTRUCTION
Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
TILE-LAYER
Duties: To prep suffices and To lay tiles according to plans And any other duties as may be Assigned. SALARY: $8.00 per hour.
CONTACTS: 242-1358
Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder. 24555
Belongers are asked to send a copy of their resume to The Labour Board. This position is Held by a work permit holder. 24556
Belongers are encouraged to Submit a copy of their resume To the Labour Office. This position Is currently held by a Work Permit holder. 24557
LYDIA BUTTERFIELD
P&D EMPLOYMENT
VERONICA CHARLES
BREEZY BRAE, GRAND TURK SEEKING A
Is looking for a
QUALIFICATIONS: • MCSE • A+ • N+ • CCNA Salary: $3500
ELIE & ADAMS CONSTRUCTION
VACANCY
Regent House, Suite F206, Regent Village, Grace Bay Is seeking to employ a
• Attend to client needs 24/7 on call • Installation of TV’s, CCTV, Speakers & Wifi • Able to use a ladder up to 15 feet • Physically fit and able to lift minimum 50 lbs
This position is for a work permit renewal. Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labour Department
TROPICAL BAR & GRILL
DUFRY GRAND TURK LTD
APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: • Duty free/retail experience with at least 10 years at management level • Knowledge of the Retail or Consumer goods industry • Experience in logistics procedures. Transport & warehousing background, knowledge of current customs legislation • Demonstrated ability to build effective teams and motivate employees • Analyze the KPI’s if any issue in the shop might be affecting the sales, and take
CAPABILITIES & EXPERIENCE: • Minimum 10 Years working in IT Supervisory role. Specifically with IP networks, servers and desktops • Strong Microsoft client and server OS skills including Active directory, DNS & DHCP • Experience in Hotel Property management and Electronic systems • Installation of conduit and cabling for various projects • Able to multitask
#78 Blue Hills, Providenciales. Tel: 241-0426
#17 SAILFISH LANE, VENETIAN ROAD, Provo Is seeking a
WARD’S CONSULTANCY
THIS POSITION IS A RENEWAL WORK PERMIT PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATIONS TO: CARE CONSULTANCY UNIT # 9 SAM’S BLDG. DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCIALES OR CALL 347-3465. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS IS JAN 27, 2021
Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.
TRANQUILITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
WATERFRONT LEEWARD
Duties: Paint buildings and other walls and surfaces according to instructions. Required to work weekends and holidays. Pay rate $7.00 ph.
CLEANER - $6.50 HOURLY
CONTACT: 345-3825
P.O. Box 433, Providenciales Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24526
seeks to employ a
SERVICE TECHNICIAN
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holder currently holds these positions
CONTACT: 231-1474 EMAIL: TRANQUILITYTCI@GMAIL.COM P.O. Box 433, Providenciales Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24525
CONTACT: 231-1474 EMAIL: TRANQUILITYTCI@GMAIL.COM
customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.
24564
BARMAID
• Uphold customer service • Maintain Bar
#12 Platinum Street, Wheeland, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Phone number: 649-331-7020
DOMESTIC HELPER
TO WORK BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 7:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. ON MONDAY TO THURSDAY & 7:30 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. ON FRIDAYS. Salary payable @$6.25 per hour. THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL HOWEVER QUALIFIED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGE TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT NUMBER 1(649)2320890 24592
Acting on behalf of
RIGBY BUILDERS Norway, Five Cays
SUPERVISOR - $12 HOURLY Supervising staff and worksite and scheduling work. Contact: 241-9541
MUNCHIES SNACK BAR & GRILL
Kew Town KITCHEN HELPER - $6.25 HOURLY Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times. Contact: 343-1187
Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board
24595
Waterloo Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a
DOMESTIC WORKER
• Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. • To work 5 days a week. Salary: $6.25 hourly
CONTACT: 242-3443
Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24594
38 CLASSIFIEDS
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology Covid-19: Continue using AstraZeneca vaccine, says WHO THE World Health Organization (WHO) has urged countries not to pause Covid vaccinations, as several major EU countries halted their rollouts of the Oxford-
AstraZeneca jab. It said there was no evidence of a link between the vaccine and blood clots. Germany, France, Italy and Spain joined smaller nations
in halting vaccinations as a precaution while checks are made. The WHO’s vaccine safety experts were expected to meet on Tuesday to discuss the jab.
REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.01
NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) will meet on the same day and is due to draw conclusions on Thursday. It has also said the vaccine should continue to be used. There have been a number of cases in Europe of blood clots developing after the vaccine was administered. However, experts say these were no more than the number of blood-clot incidents
typically reported within the general population. About 17 million people in the EU and the UK have received a dose of the vaccine, with fewer than 40 cases of blood clots reported as of last week, AstraZeneca said. WHAT MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN? Germany’s health ministry announced on Monday that it would stop administering the
Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine with immediate effect, on the recommendation of the Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI), the country’s authority on vaccines. “The background to this decision follows new reports of cases of cerebral vein thrombosis connected with an AstraZeneca vaccination,” Health Minister Jens Spahn said. “In light of these newly
TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 20314/116 COCKBURN SOUTH CAICOS HARBOUR Whereas, BESWICK ALEXANDER MINOTT as personal representative of THOMAS ALBERT STUBBS JR., deceased of South Caicos, has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) registered in the name of THOMAS ALBERT STUBBS was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found. Take notice that I, Toni-Ann Foster, Acting Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette. Dated this 18th day of February 2021 Signed ...................................................................................................
WHO said that there is no evidence to link the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clots.
Witnessed .............................................................................................. 24599
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION
(SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
(SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
Take notice that I, Nigel Dakin, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Yvronie Sergilles/Pacombe by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
Take notice that I, Nigel Dakin, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Astride Pierre/Charles by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
March 16-22, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS 39
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology reported cases, the Paul Ehrlich Institute today reevaluated the situation and recommended a suspension of vaccinations and further analysis.” He said the decision was “not political”. “All of us are very aware of the consequences of this decision, and we did not take this decision lightly,” he added. Shortly afterwards, French President Emmanuel Macron said France was suspending the vaccine until new advice was given by the EMA. “We have a simple guide, to be informed by science and the competent heath authorities and to do it as part of a European strategy,” he said. And Italy’s medicines agency extended a ban introduced on individual
batches of the vaccine throughout the country, also pending the EMA decision. Spanish Health Minister Carolina Darias said use of the vaccine would be suspended there for at least two weeks. The suspensions came less than a day after the Netherlands did the same. Its suspension will last until at least 29 March. The Irish Republic, Denmark, Norway, Bulgaria and Iceland have also temporarily halted inoculations with the vaccine, while the Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia have postponed the launch of their rollouts. Several European countries, including Austria, have suspended the use of certain batches of the drug as a
precautionary measure. However, Poland, the Czech Republic and Ukraine said they would continue to administer the AstraZeneca vaccine. Thailand announced that it would start using the vaccine on Tuesday, following a brief delay to the rollout over safety concerns. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said health experts had assured him all vaccines being administered in the country, including AstraZeneca’s, were safe. WHAT DO THE WHO AND OTHER EXPERTS SAY? WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier said the body was investigating the reports. “As soon as WHO has
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is seeking to employ a
ASPHALT HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS 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 welloiled, 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 cutters 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 • Minimum 3 years asphalt crew experience • Must have own vehicle to travel to work SKILLS • Able to recognize drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Works well as part of a team COMPENSATION • $40K - $52K
disease from the virus.” The EMA - which is also currently carrying out a review into incidents of blood clots - said the vaccine could continue to be administered. The UK medicines regulator also said evidence “does not suggest” the jab causes clots, as it urged people in the country to get the vaccine when asked to do so.
Professor Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford vaccine group that developed the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab, told the BBC’s Today programme there was “very reassuring evidence that there is no increase in a blood clot phenomenon here in the UK, where most of the doses in Europe [have] been given so far”. (BBC)
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is seeking to employ a
ASPHALT PLANT OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES • Leadership - Oversees and directs a team consisting of a Loader Operator, Ground Man, and Dispatcher to efficiently manufacture and deliver quality asphalt with a positive environment of accountability. • Quality Production - Consistently produces quality asphalt. Matches plant production to meet product demand - Produces accurate mix volumes maintaining correct mix temperature - Maintains appropriate inventory levels of all raw materials • Proactively communicates with HCL team members and customers to maximize quality and efficiency. • Maximize Productivity - Meets daily production plan by meeting HCL labor targets by managing start-up, shutdown, and production times. • Completes all plant preventive maintenance procedures according to schedule and fixes breakdowns. - Welds, cuts, and fabricates steel as necessary - Utilizes mechanical skills/hand tools to proactively spot maintenance issues and take corrective action before they become critical - Troubleshoots mechanical and electrical control issues • All parts of the facility are consistently neat and clean, reflecting positively on HCL’s public image. General Responsibilities • Personally sets an example of behavior is in compliance with applicable company, state and federal safety regulations including lock-out tag-out, machine guarding, PPE, fall protection, confined space, and fire watch guidelines. • Follows required HCL administrative procedures such as timekeeping and recordkeeping. • Performs all job functions in a manner that ensures the consistent utilization of Standard Operation Procedures. • Controls Training – computer skills, electrical schematic reading skills, piping flow direction and logic, valve operation, and pump operation QUALIFICATIONS • Minimum 5 years asphalt plant experience • Clean Police Record • Must have own vehicle to travel to work SKILLS • Background in electrical/mechanics • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Works well as part of a team COMPENSATION • $26K ~ $36K per annum
POSITION TYPE • Full-Time
Please submit applications to main office at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales TCI.
gained a full understanding of these events, the findings and any unlikely changes to current recommendations will be immediately communicated to the public,” he said. “As of today, there is no evidence that the incidents are caused by the vaccine and it is important that vaccination campaigns continue so that we can save lives and stem severe
POSITION TYPE • Full-Time
24597
Please submit applications to main office at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales TCI.
24598
40
March 16-22, 2021
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
Psychedelic therapy could ‘reset’ depressed brain A POWERFUL hallucinogenic drug known for its part in shamanic rituals is being trialled as a potential cure for depression for the first time. Participants will be given the drug DMT, followed by talking therapy. It is hoped this could offer an alternative for the significant number of people who don’t respond to conventional pills for depression. Psychedelic-assisted therapy might offer longer-term relief from symptoms, some researchers believe. A growing body of evidence indicates other psychedelic drugs, particularly alongside talking therapy, are safe and can be effective for treating a range of mental illnesses. This will be the first time DMT is given to people with moderate to severe depression in a clinical trial. Carol Routledge, the chief scientific officer of Small Pharma, the company running the trial said: “We believe the impact will be almost immediate, and longer lasting than conventional antidepressants.” ‘SPIRIT MOLECULE’ The drug is known as the “spirit molecule” because of the way it alters the human consciousness and produces hallucinations that have been likened to a near-death experience. It is also the active ingredient in ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian plant medicine used to bring spiritual enlightenment. Researchers believe the drug
including psilocybin, LSD, ketamine and MDMA (Ecstasy), were safe and could play a role in the treatment of mental health disorders. And there was some early evidence they could have longer-term effects than the medicines conventionally prescribed as antidepressants, known as SSRIs, but more research was needed. They also worked using a completely different mechanism, Prof Morgan explained.
Psychedelic-assisted therapy might offer longer-term relief from symptoms, some researchers believe.
might help loosen the brain’s fixed pathways, which can then be “reset” with talking therapy afterwards. Ms Routledge likened the drug to “shaking a snow globe” - throwing entrenched negative thought patterns up in the air which the therapy allows to be resettled into a more functional form. But this hypothesis still needs to be proven. The team is consulting Imperial College London, which runs the pioneering Centre for Psychedelic Research.
As part of the study, they hope to investigate whether the drug can be administered as a one-off or as part of a course. Subjects will be followed up for at least six months to see how long the effects of the treatment last. KETAMINE CLINIC Meanwhile, a ketamine-assisted therapy clinic is set to open in Bristol next week. While the drug is already used for depression in clinics like the ketamine treatment service in
Oxford, it is not accompanied by psychotherapy. Rather, it is used to provide temporary relief from symptoms for people who have very serious, treatment-resistant depression. So-far unpublished researched presented at a conference by professor of psychopharmacology at the University of Exeter, Celia Morgan, suggests ketamine accompanied by therapy has much longer-lasting effects. Prof Morgan said there was mounting evidence that drugs,
‘LONG-LASTING CHANGE’ While conventional drugs may numb negative feelings, “these drugs seem to allow you to approach difficult experiences in your life, sit with that distress and process them,” she said. “It might be getting at something more fundamental” that was the root cause of the problem, Prof Morgan said. “Through that we think you can get much more long-lasting change.” Prof Michael Bloomfield, a consultant psychiatrist at University College London, said although it was a “really exciting” area of research, caution was needed in overpromising the drugs’ potential. It was also a field of therapy that could be open to abuse and misuse, he said. Prof Morgan also stressed the importance the drugs being used within the context of therapy as there were concerns that “people might think they can give it a go with some recreational drugs”. “But it’s really not how it works” she said. (BBC)
Turning plastic bags into clothes for sustainable fashion SCIENTISTS have made fabrics from polythene in a move they say could reduce plastic pollution and make the fashion industry more sustainable. Polythene is a ubiquitous plastic, found in everything from plastic bags to food packaging. The new textiles have potential uses in sports wear, and even high-end fashion, according to US researchers. The plastic “cloth” is more environmentally-friendly than natural fibres, and can be recycled, they say. Dr Svetlana Boriskina, from the department of engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, US, said plastic bags that nobody wants can be turned into highperformance fabrics with a low environmental footprint. “There’s no reason why the simple
plastic bag cannot be made into fibre and used as a high-end garment,” she told BBC News. “You can go literally from trash to a high-performance garment that provides comfort and can be recycled multiple times back into a new garment.” The fabric is made from fibres of polythene woven on industrial looms into textiles that are designed to be comfortable to wear. Crucially, the fibres are designed to allow water to escape, rather than repelling water like conventional polythene. The researchers say the fabric is less damaging to the environment than the likes of wool, cotton, linen, silk, nylon and polyester, and can be washed in cold water, further reducing the environmental footprint. The plastic can be dyed in
different colours before being woven into fabric. Because it is made up of only one type of plastic - polythene it can be recycled into new garments time and time again. The fabric has potential for use in sportswear, such as trainers, vests and leggings, they say. In the long-term, it could also have applications as a high-performance space suit, engineered to be protect against cosmic radiation. Commenting on the study, published in Nature Sustainability, Dr Mark Sumner of the University of Leeds said it remained to be seen if such a fabric might catch on. He said the typical mechanical properties of polythene - such as strength and melting temperature tend to limit its use in textiles, as does its very low moisture absorption. “The fundamental challenge I see with this development, as we have
Polythene is among the most widelyproduced materials in the world.
seen with many other ‘new fibre’ developments, is how well the fibre aligns with comfort, feel and drape requirements of the consumer,” he said. “If the fabric feels waxy, or stiff and lacks comfort then consumers won’t buy the product, and therefore, the fibre has limited use for clothing.” The fashion industry is one of
the most polluting industries in the world. Textile manufacturing consumes huge amounts of water and generates millions of tonnes of waste, as well as 5-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions annually. Washing and drying clothes often consumes even more energy and water than the production phase. (BBC)
March 16-22, 2021
41
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
Climate change: ‘Forever plant’ seagrass faces uncertain future THE green, underwater meadows of Posidonia seagrass that surround the Balearic Islands are one of the world’s most powerful, natural defences against climate change. A hectare of this ancient, delicate plant can soak up 15 times more carbon dioxide every year than a similar sized piece of the Amazon rainforest. But this global treasure is now under extreme pressure from tourists, from development and ironically from climate change. Posidonia oceanica is found all over the Mediterranean but the area between Mallorca and Formentera is of special interest, having been designated a world heritage site by Unesco over 20 years ago. Here you’ll find around 55,000 hectares of the plant, which helps prevent coastal erosion, acts as a nursery for fish, but also plays a globally significant role in soaking up CO2. “These seagrass meadows are the champion of carbon sequestration for the biosphere,” said Prof Carlos Duarte, of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia. He’s recently published the first global scientific assessment of the environmental value of Unesco’s marine world heritage sites. “Posidonia acts as a very intensive
sediment trap and captures carbon into these sediments. It is also very resistant to microbial degradation, so the carbon is not degraded when it’s deposited on the sea floor. And much of that stays unaltered during decades to millennia.” Depending on the water temperature, the species reproduces either sexually through flowering or asexually by cloning itself. This ability to clone itself means it can live an extremely long time. “It’s a remarkable plant not only in the capacity to sequester carbon, but also because it’s one of the longestlived organisms on the planet,” said Prof Duarte. “In the marine protected areas of Ibiza we documented one clone where we estimated that the seed that produced that clone was released into the seafloor and sprouted 200,000 years ago.” “A clone could be eternal, kind of,” says Dr Núria Marbà, from the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies in Mallorca. “If there are no damages that disturb it, it could last for forever well maybe not forever but for an incredibly long time.” But despite its ability to live almost infinitely, Posidonia is finding the modern world increasingly treacherous. This vivid green carpet that
Seagrasses are plants with amazing abilities to soak up carbon.
extends under the seas in the Balearics faces an ongoing threat from boats dropping their anchors which crush, tear and destroy the meadows. One study showed that between 2008 and 2012, Posidonia meadows in Formentera were reduced by 44% because of the impact of anchoring. The plant also grows extremely slowly. The damage caused by one yacht’s anchor in a single day several years ago would take almost 1,000 years to restore. Another threat comes from too many nutrients in the waters, caused by effluent released from water treatment sites across the islands. But perhaps the biggest and most difficult challenge for Posidonia is climate change. “Posidonia has an upper thermal limit of about 28C,” says Dr Marbà.
“I think it’s about half of the summers since 2000 that we have exceeded this temperature in the water in the Balearic Islands. “It doesn’t cause massive mortality. But it’s excessive for the slow growth of the plant.” So what can be done to help protect this amazingly powerful seagrass? Government action to protect Posidonia in the Balearics has been ramped up in recent years and public awareness of the importance of the species is rising. But some researchers believe that putting a financial value on the carbon that’s locked up by Posidonia could release the funds to save it. “As countries try and reach the goals of the Paris agreement, the forecast is that carbon credits are going to see a tenfold increase in value,” said Prof Carlos Duarte.
“Therefore, there’s likely to be an increase in investment in habitats like Posidonia that can lock up carbon and generate these credits.” This would be welcome news in Ibiza and Formentera. If the carbon that’s already been sequestered by the seagrass increases in value, then it will pay to protect and even attempt to restore the Posidonia meadows. But time and rising temperatures are the key challenge, as Dr Núria Marbà explains. “The whole thing of planting seagrasses is that you have to do a massive effort at the beginning to start the process. And then you just wait for the plant itself to grow. “If we are in a hurry, at human timescales, it’s impossible. “But if we don’t mind, and we can wait for a few centuries, it will be okay.” (BBC)
Tanzanian diet can help you fight inflammation, study says IF you’re trying to eat healthier, you probably know that you should swap out red meat and other foods loaded in saturated fat for lean protein options with healthy fats, such as salmon. Still, you could be putting yourself at risk for hypertension (also referred to as high blood pressure) and certain cancers if you’re not factoring in inflammation as well. Now, researchers have identified a diet that can help prevent inflammation. As it turns out, the traditional Tanzanian diet yields significantly less inflammation than the typical Western one. The study, published in Nature Immunology, looked at how the health of Tanzanians living in urban areas (who tend to have a more western diet, similar to ours in the U.S.) compared to those living in rural areas, whose diet tends to be more traditional. They found that the former showed more inflammation than the latter, which suggests that
The Tanzanian diet includes a wide diversity of foods, rich in all of the macronutrients.
the more traditional diet can have major health benefits. So what are some traditional Tanzanian foods you could be adding to your diet? “What we have observed is that
traditional diets in Tanzania that contain high amounts of products containing flavones, including millet, sorghum, and vegetables, have anti-inflammatory properties,”
corresponding author Mihai G. Netea, PhD told Eat This, Not That! “This is likely to contribute to a more balanced immune response, with an absence of low-grade
inflammation that we know is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular complications.” The Tanzanian diet also includes a wide diversity of foods, rich in all of the macronutrients (fats, protein, and carbs) which is key for maintaining optimal health, as Wafaie Fawzi, DrPH, MBBS, MPH, MS, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health professor of nutrition, epidemiology, and global health tells us. “For maximizing health, a balanced diet is essential. Tanzanian traditional diet includes a diverse foods diet that promotes healthy living, including a mix of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes,” he says. The typical Western diet, meanwhile, features a large “consumption of unhealthy foods including large amounts of red and processed meat, and refined carbohydrates, and sugar,” he adds. (Eatthis.com)
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
March 16-22, 2021
Sports Interational
2021 Carifta Games pushed back to August 13-15 in Bermuda The 2021 Carifta Games scheduled for Bermuda has been pushed back to August 13-15, 2021, Mike Sands, President of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) announced today during a virtual press conference. The regional junior track and field championship, which will celebrate its 49th edition, was to have taken place from April 3-5 but was moved to July 2-4 because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, according to the NACAC president, the decision to push the dates to August stems from the move by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) to have external examinations between June 14 and July 16, dates which overlap the previously scheduled dates for the Carifta Games. CXC’s decision was forced by adjusted school times across the region caused by the pandemic. Meanwhile, Donna Raynor,
President of the Bermuda Athletics Association and Bermuda’s Carifta Games Local Organizing Committee (LOC) said she was ‘floored’ by the decision to move the games to August but indicated that there are several upsides to hosting the games then. She indicated that by then, member countries should have been able to bring infections under control and that most, if not all, would have had access to the vaccines. The athletes will also have more time to prepare, she said. Raynor also advised that hotels in the country have also indicated that they will have rooms available to accommodate the visiting teams. That said, she indicated the safety protocols were being prepared that will be forwarded to the Bermudan government for approval. Those protocols would include that athletes are tested three days prior to arriving in Bermuda. Of course, that could change, depending on
The regional competitions has been known to produce stars.
what the state of the pandemic is in the weeks leading up to the games, she said. At this point, she said, no fans would be allowed into the stadium hosting the games but said that also could change depending on the prevailing conditions in the weeks leading up to the Games. Raynor also indicated that the delay would not necessarily
significantly add to the costs of hosting the games, indicating that she only envisions additional expenses in the form of enhanced medical facilities and personnel. With that in mind, there will either be no opening ceremony or a significantly scaled-down one, in an effort to contain spending. Sands said that NACAC would lend financial support to offset
additional costs associated with the delays. The president said work was ongoing behind the scenes to help member nations minimize costs associated with travelling to Bermuda. He said NACAC was considering having athletes travel to a centralized location from where they would be flown directly to Bermuda. (Sports Max)
Barca boss praises Messi after record-equaling appearance BARCELONA manager Ronald Koeman called Lionel Messi “the most important player” in the club’s history after the Argentine made his 767th appearance for the Catalan team on Monday. Messi has now drawn level with Xavi’s all-time appearance record for the club and the Argentine is very likely to break it when the team travels to face Real Sociedad in the league on Sunday. The 33-year-old celebrated his record-equaling achievement with another vintage performance in his side’s 4-1 win over Huesca. He typically marked the occasion with two goals, the first of which was a spectacular strike from distance. “What more can you say?” Koeman told reporters after the match. “His level over so many years, over so many games [...] he’s the most important player in Barcelona’s history and thank goodness he’s still here with us. “I think he’s shown he’s the best player in the world. The first goal he scored was fantastic, and he deserves to be the focal point of this team.” CONVINCING
Lionel Messi (front left) equalled Xavi record of 767 appearance for Barcelona.
MESSI TO STAY Koeman has previously said he hopes to convince Messi to stay at his childhood club after the Argentine’s
deal runs out at the end of the season. Messi is currently free to enter into negotiations with other clubs over a potential move in the summer
and there is likely to be no shortage of interest. The Argentine made public his desire to leave last summer, and
it has been looking increasingly unlikely he will sign a new contract. The club and its fans will hope new president Joan Laporta can help convince him to stay, having previously served in the position from 2003 to 2010 -- one of the most successful eras in Barca’s history when Messi became a household name. “To play alongside Leo [Messi] is an absolute joy. I enjoy going to training everyday,” said 18-yearold Pedri, a key figure in the new generation of players coming through at the club. “Whenever I get it, I try and pass to him because every time he touches the ball, something happens. It’s absolutely crazy what he’s achieving. He’s the best player in the world.” Barcelona’s win over bottomclub Huesca puts it second in La Liga, only four points behind leader Atletico Madrid. Although Barca was knocked out of the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain last week, the performance shows the club may now be heading it the right direction. (CNN)
March 16-22, 2021
43
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Sports Interational
Zlatan Ibrahimovic: AC Milan striker recalled by Sweden SWEDEN’S record goalscorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been recalled to the national team, five years after announcing his retirement. The 39-year-old scored 62 goals in 116 internationals before quitting after the team’s Euro 2016 group stage exit. He opened the door to a return in a newspaper interview in November 2020 and Sweden coach Janne Andersson then flew to Milan to meet with the striker. Ibrahimovic has 14 goals in 14 Serie A appearances for AC Milan
this season. Sweden face Georgia on Thursday, 25 March before playing Kosovo three days later in their opening two 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Ibrahimovic has responded to Sweden’s announcement of their squad by tweeting: “The return of the God.” “He can be a little bit funny at times,” Andersson said when told about the striker’s tweet during an online news conference. “First and foremost he is a very good footballer, the best we have had
Zlatan Ibrahimovic retired from international duty following Sweden’s exit at Euro 2016.
in Sweden. It’s obviously very good that he wants to come back. “Apart from what he can contribute on the field, he has incredible experience and can contribute that to the other players in the team.” The 6ft 5in striker made his international debut as a 19-year-old against the Faroe Islands and went
on to score in his first competitive match - a qualifier for the 2002 World Cup against Azerbaijan. He was also appointed captain for Euro 2012 qualifying, before he scored one of the best goals of the finals with a volley in a 2-0 win over France, although Sweden were eliminated at the group stage. The former Barcelona, Paris St-
German, Manchester United and LA Galaxy striker rejoined AC Milan on a six-month deal - with the option for another season - in January 2020. Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in 53 games for United, who agreed to an early termination of his contact, before he joined MLS side Galaxy in 2018. (BBC)
Fury, Joshua sign two-fight deal to unify heavyweight titles AFTER months of arduous negotiations between competing promoters and rival champions, the contract for a two-fight deal between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua to unify the heavyweight titles has finally been signed. “We’d like to get a site deal confirmed in the next month,” said Eddie Hearn, managing director of Matchroom Sport, Joshua’s promoter. “The hard part is always getting everybody to put pen to paper. But this was a major effort from all parties to get this over the line. You had rival promoters, rival networks and rival fighters.” Not to mention rival egos, always a factor in boxing. The final signature came Saturday, in a provision of services agreement with signees believed to include Fury and Joshua; Joshua’s promoter, Matchroom Boxing; Fury’s American promoter, Top Rank; Fury’s English promoter, Queensberry; and Fury’s management company, Dubai-based MTK. With the terms of the deal now set, principals can solicit offers from prospective sites. A Top Rank source said: “It’s pending, finding a site and a date that’s acceptable to both (fighters’ camps). We have 30 days from the signing, or the deal could go away.” “I actually feel we’ve done the
The contract calls for a 50-50 split in the first fight and 60-40 in the rematch, with the winner taking the higher share.
hard part,” Hearn said. “Speaking for myself, Anthony and his team at 258 management [258 MGT], I know how hard we’ve worked these last couple of months and I just feel that this fight is so big it’s not a difficult sell. We’ve already had approaches from eight or nine sites.
The offers have come from multiple countries in the Middle East, from Asia, Eastern Europe and America.” The smart money, however, continues to be on the Middle East, where Hearn secured a site fee in excess of $40 million to promote Joshua’s 2019 rematch with Andy
Ruiz in Saudi Arabia. The need for a huge site fee becomes particularly acute with seating restrictions and businesses still reeling from COVID-19, as Middle Eastern countries are seeking less in attendance than favorable publicity. “This is the biggest fight in boxing
and one of the biggest sporting events in the world,” Hearn said. “It will be a major, major win for a country that wants to showcase itself.” As ESPN previously reported, the contract calls for a 50-50 split in the first fight and 60-40 in the rematch, with the winner taking the higher share. The plan is for both fights to take place in 2021 -- the first in June or July and the rematch ideally in November or December. But news of the deal comes just days after Fury expressed frustration with the negotiations that began back in January, telling IFL-TV that he had ceased training for Joshua and was drinking “up to 12 pints a day.” “You never really know with Tyson,” Hearn said. “It could be mind games. He could be having a bad day. He could be a little pissed off. Or he could be having a joke. “One of the fascinations about this fight will be the buildup because they’re two totally different characters, two totally different personalities. The mind games will be on another level for this fight. Tyson is very good at that. Anthony is excited by that. ... He’s so pumped, so focused, he hasn’t stopped training since the [Kubrat] Pulev fight [in December]. He’s like a caged lion. The buildup is going to be epic.” (ESPN)
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Drew Brees played 20 seasons in the NFL, 15 of those with the Saints.
Drew Brees set to join NBC as a football analyst
The delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games will start on July 23.
Tokyo 2020: China offers Covid vaccine doses for Olympic and Paralympic athletes THE Chinese Olympic Committee has offered Covid vaccine doses for those competing at the summer Games and at the 2022 winter Games in Beijing. The news was delivered by International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach, who on Wednesday reiterated that the delayed Tokyo 2020 will start on 23 July. “The IOC will pay for these additional doses of vaccines for the Olympic and Paralympic team,” he added. The Winter Olympics start in February. Bach added: “For each of these
doses, the IOC will pay for two doses more which can be made available to the population in the respective countries.” Meanwhile, Sarah Hirshland, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee chief executive, said Team USA athletes could be vaccinated before their respective trials because of the pace of the rollout in the country. “The broad base of athletes may have access to the vaccine sooner than we thought initially possible,” she said. “This is great news and we’re feeling really positive about the progress we’re seeing here in the
United States, both in its advantage to US athletes as well as international athletes living and training in our country right now.” Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto said on Thursday that no decision had been made on whether to allow foreign spectators to watch the Games in Japan. It comes after reports this week stating fans from overseas would not be allowed to attend due to continuing concerns about the pandemic. Hashimoto added that a decision would be made before the start of the Olympic torch relay on 25 March. (BBC)
Drew Brees, after announcing his retirement from the NFL on Sunday, has said he will now be working with NBC. New Orleans Saints longtime quarterback Brees announced his retirement on Sunday via social media. During an appearance Monday on “The Today Show,” Brees announced his new role as a football analyst for NBC Sports. “I’m excited about that journey. I’m excited to stay very closely connected with the game of football. It’s been such an important part of my life. And I continue to be able to talk about it and show a passion for it,” Brees said Monday. Brees played 20 seasons in the NFL, 15 of those with the Saints. Brees was drafted out of Purdue University in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers (now the Los Angeles Chargers), where he played five seasons. The 42-year old retires as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing
yards, with 80,358 yards, and completions, with 7,142. Brees is second in the NFL record book with 571 passing touchdowns. In 2010, Brees led the Saints to a win in Super Bowl XLIV and was named Most Valuable Player in that game. In his retirement announcement Brees said, “After 20 years as a player in the NFL and 15 years as a Saint, it is time I retire from the game of football. Each day, I poured my heart & soul into being your Quarterback. Til the very end, I exhausted myself to give everything I had to the Saints organization, my team, and the great city of New Orleans.” He added: “I am only retiring from playing football, I am not retiring from New Orleans. This is not goodbye, rather a new beginning. Now my real life’s work begins!” Brees’s four children helped him make the announcement, saying in a video that he was retiring to spend more time with them.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rob Gronkowski set to follow Tom Brady in signing new deal FOUR-TIME Super Bowl winner Rob Gronkowski looks set to follow quarterback Tom Brady in signing a new contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The tight end, 31, has agreed a one-year deal worth up to $10m (£7.24m), according to NFL Network. Gronkowski came out of retirement last April to link up with Brady at the Bucs and the ex-New England Patriots team-mates helped them win Super Bowl 55. Brady, 43, announced last Friday he had signed a contract extension. “We’re keeping the band
together,” the seven-time Super Bowl winner tweeted. The Bucs have also retained wide receiver Chris Godwin and linebacker Lavonte David, with outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett set to follow. After being drafted by New England in 2010, Gronkowski won three Super Bowls in nine seasons with the Patriots and retired after helping them beat the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl 53. Brady ended his glittering 20year spell in New England to move to Florida last year and his presence in Tampa Bay was enough to lure
Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady have connected for five passing touchdowns in Super Bowls - the most in Super Bowl history.
Gronkowski back after a year out, during which he had brief stints in WWE and television. After easing back into the rigours of the NFL with seven touchdowns
in 2020’s regular season, ‘Gronk’ scored two TDs as the Bucs upset the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9 in Super Bowl 55. Brady and Gronkowski have
now connected for five passing touchdowns in Super Bowls, passing Joe Montana and Jerry Rice (four) for the most in Super Bowl history. (BBC)
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Pele congratulates Ronaldo for surpassing his ‘record of goals in official matches’ PELE has congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese forward surpassed the Brazilian soccer great’s tally of goals scored in official matches. Ronaldo netted a hat trick in Juventus’ 3-1 win over Cagliari on Sunday to move onto 770 career goals, three more than Pele. The 35-year-old Ronaldo took to Instagram to recognize his achievement as well as the Brazilian’s influence on his career, prompting Pele to reply. “Life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having,” Pele wrote on Instagram. “I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches. “My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today. But I leave this photo in your honor, with great affection, as the symbol of a friendship that has existed for many years.” Portugal’s leading goalscorer with 102 goals, Ronaldo previously played for Sporting Lisbon (five goals), Manchester United (118) and Real Madrid (450) and has now scored 95 times for Juventus. However, whether the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is now the top goalscorer in history is still very much up for debate.
Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his third goal against Cagliari.
DEBATE OVER ALL-TIME TOP GOALSCORER The Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation (RSSSF), an international organization dedicated to collecting statistics about the game, still lists the late Austro-Czech striker Josef Bican
as the sport’s all-time top goalscorer with more than 805 goals. However, it notes that some of those goals came in amateur and reserve club matches, as well as non-official international games. Adjusting his total tally accordingly, multiple reports suggest Bican’s
official total is 759 goals. FIFA, world football’s governing body which doesn’t have an official ranking, credits Bican, who passed away in 2001, with an “estimated 805 goals” during his career, which spanned from 1931 to 1955. The Guinness Book of World
Records has Pele as scoring 1,279 goals in his career but the authenticity of this tally has come under scrutiny with many of those coming in unofficial matches. After netting his hat-trick, Ronaldo revealed the tally he was aiming for and explained why he was only now acknowledging passing Pele’s record now. “My everlasting and unconditional admiration for mister Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Pele), such is the respect that I have for mid-20th century football, led me to take into account his 767 score, assuming his nine goals for Sao Paulo State Team, as well as his single goal for the Brazilian Military Team, as official goals,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram. “Today, as I reach the 770th official goal in my professional career, my first words go straight to Pele. There’s no player in the world who hasn’t been raised listening to stories about his games, his goals and his achievements, and I’m no exception. “And for that reason, I’m filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the world’s goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira.” The 33-year-old Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s long-time rival, is currently 40 goals behind the Portugal international but is younger and has played fewer games. (CNN)
Roglic crashes twice, suffers a dislocated shoulder, loses race lead, but still finishes CYCLIST Primoz Roglic showed remarkable resilience in the final stage of the Paris-Nice race on Sunday after crashing twice -dislocating his shoulder in the first -- and losing the large lead he had accumulated. The Slovenian, who came into the eighth and final stage of the prestigious race with almost a minute lead, crashed on a descent after 22 kilometers and, after finishing, he confirmed he had dislocated his shoulder in the fall. As a result of the crash, Roglic was sucked back into the peloton with his shorts ripped and with cuts and bruises on his legs. The struggles didn’t end there. After suffering a mechanical fault which dramatically reduced
his speed, the 31-year-old fell to the tarmac again with about 20 kilometers to go. Roglic’s resolve didn’t crumble with his lead long gone as he managed to complete the 92.7km stage, finishing 15th in the overall rankings. Afterward, Roglic, who had won three stages in this year’s race, said that he “made mistakes” in Sunday’s stage. “It was not the stage I was hoping for,” he told the Team Jumbo-Visma website. “The first crash dislocated my shoulder and after the second crash I was so far behind that I couldn’t come back. “It was a huge fight to the finish in which I gave everything. I am disappointed, but this is also part of our sport. Yet I also bring positive
Slovenia’s Roglic wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey rides after falling during the eighth stage of the Paris-Nice race.
things from this start to my season. We will certainly remember those moments. We need to learn from this edition of Paris-Nice and make plans for the next goals.”
Roglic finished three minutes and eight second behind the eventual winner Bora-Hansgrohe’s Max Schachmann. The German admitted afterward
that he had “mixed feelings” with the victory because of Roglic’s struggles. “I don’t know if I can be happy, it’s not nice to win like that. It’s very difficult,” he added. (CNN)
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Women in Sports looking to make TCI more active
– WILL HIGHLIGHT LOCAL FEMALE ATHLETES MONTHLY
THE Women in Sports (WIS) Association aims to have a proactive 2021, despite the pandemic, by promoting fitness and fun physical activities. The association, under new leader Mrs Symadia Wallace, aims to have several events for their calendar year. Forthcoming on the agenda will be activities such as Beat the Distance, Beat the Steps, Beat the Calories and the TCI WIS Virtual Olympics. According to information from the Association, plans are also in place to facilitate virtual workout sessions, including dance cardio, home workouts and yoga and meditation. Mrs Wallace is aiming to hit the ground running, since the Association will also look to establish a WIS Athlete of the Month on social media platforms. Earlier this month, Mrs Wallace
Mrs Symadia Wallace was voted in as President of WIS earlier this month.
Brenda Lightbourne is the new Vice President of WIS.
was virtually voted in as President, when WIS held its Annual General Meeting. Information from Rita Gardiner, who now serves as adviser to WIS, indicated that 22 members from Grand Turk and Providenciales voted at the election. Along with Mrs Wallace, Ms Brenda Lightbourne was also voted into the group. She will serve as vice president. The new president brings with
first joined the Turks and Caicos Amateur Athletic Association in 1998 as a member, before she became its Assistant Secretary in 2015-2019. She also served on the Commonwealth Games Association. Ms Lightbourne is an IAAF Certified Level 1 and 2 Coach and a certified Official, who on many occasions has travelled to Athletic Championships regionally and internationally, where her first priority is always the well-being of
her exemplary caregiving due to her work in the Rotary Club, while she is also employed at the Financial Services Commission, where she has acquired a wealth of knowledge and leadership skills. Mrs Wallace is also an advocate for youth progression and is keen to continue making a difference for young ladies within the communities of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Ms Lightbourne is a seasoned, well-rounded sport enthusiast. She
the athletes. According to Mrs Gardiner, “The TCI WIS would like to congratulate the President Symadia Ingham -Wallace and Vice President Brenda Lightbourne for being appointed. Also, we would like to extend our gratitude to our past President Angela Brooks and Vice President Paula VirgilStubbs for their contributions to the development of TCI WIS in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
James records 98 triple-double to help LA Lakers beat Golden State Warriors LEBRON James recorded the 98th triple-double of his career as the Los Angeles Lakers eased to a 128-97 win over the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. Montrezl Harrell scored 15 of his team-high 27 points as the Lakers pulled away in the second quarter to win the season series with the Warriors 2-1. The team that won the last
six series between the division rivals went on to reach the NBA Finals, winning four. James had 22 points and is fifth on the NBA’s all-time list for triple-doubles. Stephen Curry scored 27 points to lead the Warriors, who were coming off an impressive home win over the Utah Jazz a day earlier but suffered their fifth loss in six games.
The Lakers (26-13) are narrowly behind the Phoenix Suns near the top of the Pacific division while the Warriors are 20-20 and the Jazz have the NBA’s best record of 2810. The in-form Suns improved to 26-12 with Devin Booker scoring 27 points as Phoenix rolled to a 122-99 victory over the visiting Memphis Grizzlies. (BBC)
Lebron James is fifth in the all-time triple double race. Above 60 triple double, only he and Russell Westbrook (157 second overall) are active. Oscar Robertson still leads with 181.
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OTUONYE CONFIDENT OF INCREASING DISTANCE – Happy with victory in season opener
Ifeanyi Otuonye had a successful start to his season
NATIONAL long-jump record holder Ifeanyi Otuonye is confident that his leaps will increase as his season progresses in his quest of making the qualifying mark for this year’s Olympics. The 26-year-old, who competed earlier this month, the first time since the lockdown began, was elated with his results. He jumped to 7.51m at the Kansas State University (KSU) Steve Miller Open Track and Field Meet in Manhattan, Kansas USA. The Turks Islander claimed a victory in that meet. “It was a relief to finally compete in my first meet in over a year,” he told the Sports Commission. “This is the longest I have ever not competed, as a result of the ongoing pandemic. I used a shorter runway approach for that reason so I could test where I was. Having not competed for so long and since relocating back to the
Haye-Smith grateful for support from Flamingo Pharmacy/ GNC products TCI’s top female sprinter Yanique Haye-Smith is elated that Flamingo Pharmacy under the GNC products has decided to sponsor her as she continues her 2021 track and field season. She said that her “journey will now be much smoother in preparation” for the rest of the season. The multi-record holder is aiming to compete at the 2021 Olympics in the 400M hurdles.
The 30-year-old has been a dominant force in her indoor season. She broke the 60M record last month en route to a first-place finish at the Norfolk’s State Invitational in Virginia Beach. In her three races so far this season (all in the US), HayeSmith has claimed two first places and a second. With her latest conquest, she is now TCI’s 60M, 200M and 400M indoor record holder.
Yanique Haye-Smith is TCI’s fastest female athlete.
Turks and Caicos Islands, while being coached remotely from my coach in the USA, it’s great to know that my performance has not been affected much during this transition.” Otuonye, who has an 8.06m personal best in the Long Jump event, added that he is satisfied with his performance at the meet. He said that the victory has given him confidence for the rest of the season. “I’m excited to really get rolling with my full approach length. I’m confident, with the right amount of support, track meets and competition, it will bring out really big jumps from me this year leading up to UK tryouts for Olympics.” Otuonye graduated from Kansas State University in 2019 with a Master of Business Administration Degree and competed in the meet as a Pro Athlete.
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