TC Weekly News March 23 - 29, 2021 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 35 | No. 12 | March 23-29, 2021

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NEW SIPT TRIAL BEGINS APRIL 12

Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang has announced that she will be presiding over the new hearing of the government corruption trial, which is slated to begin on April 12.

Deputy governor visits schools on first day of reopening CAMBRIDGE IGCSE CANCELLED AND CPEA POSTPONED PAGE  4

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GOVERNMENT WRITES OFF $12M IN NHIB LATE FEES AND PENALTIES

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SIPT LAWYERS GRANTED LIMITED ADMISSION TO TCI BAR PAGE  11

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

Cambridge IGCSE cancelled and CPEA postponed Education minister says students ‘not ready’ for exams BY OLIVIA ROSE The Government has cancelled this year’s Cambridge IGCSE examinations and postponed the CPEA, just as schools throughout the TCI get ready to reopen for inperson classes. Minister of Education Hon. Rachel Taylor said students preparing to write the tests are not ready due to the Covid-19 pandemic which resulted in the closure of schools last year. “We have heard the cries of our school principals, the cries of our teachers, and the cries of our students when they say, our children are not ready for these examinations,” Taylor said during a House of Assembly sitting on Tuesday, March 16. “We recognise and appreciate the significant stress that our students are feeling as they prepare to sit in some cases, life changing external examinations. “Our children have not had the benefit of consistent face-to-face for over a year. “Our students have not covered the subject requirements, and to sit some of these external

examinations would not be fair to our children when other countries have had the benefit of returning their students to the classroom much earlier than we have.” Students who were preparing for the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams will instead be given a teacher assessment using their work and school-based assessment (SBA). They will be able to use these assessment grades in lieu of exam results when applying for further education. Taylor said the Ministry of Education wrote to Cambridge to advise the body of its decision. The Government also decided to defer the grade six Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) for a year for all public primary schools except two. Since it announced the end of the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) and the introduction of CPEA in 2018, the first group of students were expected to begin the CPEA in 2020. However, students were not unable to undergo learning for the assessment due to the

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Minister of Education Hon. Rachel Taylor unprecedented pandemic. Taylor explained that the Department of Education will focus on administering an internal assessment focusing on literacy and numeracy instead of the CPEA this year. Although the test will be delayed, school leaders, teachers and parents were urged to continue to work with students using the guidelines to finish the curriculum. “This is no time for us to rest on our laurels, our children are behind and we must give them a fighting

chance to succeed,” Taylor said. “The deferral of the CPEA examinations means that schools are no longer burdened to complete the school-based assessments within the allocated timelines.” She said that she wants to encourage schools to continue along the path and complete the curriculum, to build the students competencies and skills. “I had mentioned two schools which are far advanced in preparing our students to sit the CPEA exams.

“I wish to use this opportunity to congratulate these schools, the teachers and administrators, and most importantly the parents for their hard work.” The minister said the completion of the exams by these schools will not be used for the placement of students. However, these schools will serve as a pilot to better assist other schools as the ministry continues to work on the implementation of the CPEA next year. The CPEA which was touted as a more holistic approach to learning, is an assessment which looks at the key literacies possessed by students exiting the primary school system. High school students will continue to sit the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) examinations in June and July of this year. Results from this examination will be made available to Ministry of Education in the last week of September 2021. The education minister said: “CXC intends to share with each country the broad topics to be assessed on paper two, five weeks in advance of the start of the examination. “As a contingency measure, if students are unsuccessful in their exams, the ministry will encourage these students to re-sit the examinations in 2022.”

Two patients with Covid-19 die in two days A middle-aged patient with a known case of Covid-19 died in Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk on Monday morning, March 22. They were admitted to the hospital in critical condition, and their clinical status continued to worsen, the TCI Hospital and TCI Government said in a joint press release the same day. “[We] wish to extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family and friends on the unfortunate loss of their loved one,” they wrote. The death marks the 17th person in the TCI to have died after catching the coronavirus

since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Just two days earlier on March 20, an elderly patient with a known case of Covid-19 disease also died at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk. The patient was admitted to the medical centre in critical condition, and their condition deteriorated rapidly. Prior to that the last death was of an elderly patient with Covid-19 at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Friday, March 5, shortly before midnight. They were under isolation and clinical management at the

hospital, and their condition worsened. A critically ill elderly patient died in Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales on February 19. And earlier that month four people with Covid-19 died in less than a week. Symptoms of Covid-19 include cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath, fever, diarrhoea or loss of sense of taste or smell. Anyone with symptoms suggestive of Covid-19, should stay at home and contact the Ministry of Health hotlines on 232-9444 or 333-0911, or call 911 if symptoms are severe.

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Chief justice will preside over corruption case retrial BY DELANA ISLES Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang has announced that she will be presiding over the new hearing of the government corruption trial, which is slated to begin on April 12. However, the future of the trial rides on the outcome of a constitutional motion set to be ventilated in court on Thursday. This was revealed on Wednesday, March 17, when the case came up for a virtual hearing before the chief justice who was sitting at Providenciales Supreme Court. The motion has been brought by Queen’s Counsel Ariel Misick of Misick and Stanbrook law firm on behalf of the defence. Misick has also filed for a stay of the criminal proceedings. Should these two motions fail, the case will move rapidly along, and the chief justice will consider the Crown’s application for the new trial to be held without a jury, much like the first one. All of the defendants have since filed their submissions in relation to this application. Wednesday’s hearing also dealt with a number of housekeeping and trial management issues, should Director of Public Prosecution Eugene Otuonye’s decision to hold a new trial come

Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang to fruition. Notably, the chief justice informed the court that she will be the presiding judge for a retrial. She also said she is looking at a start date of April 12 for the trial to begin, with the defendants pleading to the 13 new charges brought against them by the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT). She also laid out a trial calendar: “In view of the length of the previous trial, which unfortunately used up only about 41 percent of the time that

Queen’s Counsel Ariel Misick should have been used up, the resultant delay in the conclusion of the matter, and the fatigue of everybody involved, I am directing that in the event that this trial will recommence, this case will be heard from day to day, four days in the week.” The chief justice said this is how the trial will be conducted until the matter is concluded. She has made allowances for public holidays and the Easter and Christmas breaks to be non-sitting days. There will also be a ten working day break from August 1

to 13. She has not yet given an estimated length of time of how long a retrial will last. DEFENCE COUNSELS PULLING OUT During the hearing, Michael Misick’s lead attorney Reginald Armour SC told the court that he will not be able to represent Misick in a new trial. The ex-premier will now have to instruct a new lead attorney to join his other lawyers Adrian Kayne and Jahmal Misick in the new trial.

Also, one of McAllister Hanchell’s lawyers - Peter Melleney will not be available for a new trial. Melleney told the court that the first trial was long enough, and he will not be participating in a second as he needs to move on to pursue his career. Concerns were also raised by defence attorney Malcolm Bishop QC, who informed the court that his travel is currently restricted due to health concerns. It was decided by the chief justice that a new trial will be conducted in a hybrid style making allowances for in person or virtual attendance. Meanwhile, other defence lawyers were worried about payment for a new trial. All of the defendants had been receiving legal aid throughout the first trial. The concern comes as new Legal Aid Rules 2021, made by the chief justice under section 16 of the Supreme Court Ordinance, came into force on February 8. Under these rules, a threemember legal aid panel will now consider the grant of legal aid. Chief Justice Agyemang informed the lawyers that legal aid remuneration will not be affected at this time. However, she stated that some of those rules may have to apply to them in a new trial.

Parliament approves request for $3 million to fund stimulus grants BY DELANA ISLES One week before the 20202021 financial year ends, the House of Assembly passed a supplementary budget to help fund a third stimulus grant, pensions and gratuities. Premier Hon. Washington Misick presented the Supplementary Appropriation (2020/2021) No. 3 Bill 2021 to the House on Monday, March 22, taking it through all three readings. The bill makes way for the redirection of $3 million from the Contingency Fund to cover the promised stimulus for Islanders. While the premier’s contributions on the bill were

brief in his opening statements, Hon. Akierra Missick, elected member for Leeward and Long Bay, offered some clarifications. During the session, broadcast live on RTC, she addressed statements by the Opposition that the Government did not have any money to fund its stimulus programme until that day. “That, I’m afraid, is misleading those who are listening to the House of Assembly today, so I will provide clarity on this. “The $3 million which was held in the Contingency Fund, was and is available for the Government to use for the addressing of emergencies and or other matters that could not be foreseen. “The drawing down from

the fund requires a contingency warrant to access the funds at any time it is needed, to address a need or concern.” She added that two weeks ago the Government issued a contingency warrant for $3 million to supplement $10.5 million previously put aside for stimulus, making the total of $13.5 million. “This amount will provide TC Islanders and British overseas territory citizens the muchneeded stimulus as was pledged by this Government to be the first order of business.” She said her Government knew that $10.5 million may not be enough to satisfy the number of potential applicants, and as such

decided to top up this account. “To say that there was no budget to provide for this is nothing more than mischief, and I’d leave that right there,” Hon. Missick said. The Citizen Relief Stimulus aims to give Turks and Caicos Islander status holders and British overseas territory citizens a $1,000 payment to supplement household income to cover any shortfall, such as rent, medication, utilities, childcare or food. Monday’s passage of the bill makes way for this money to now be disbursed to those who qualify. Meanwhile, Hon. Missick also explained the Government’s redirection of the money from the capital programme.

She said it has seen it fit to reprioritise funding for its capital programme to those capital projects members think genuinely benefit the people of the TCI and are in line with the PNP Government’s ‘Citizens Contract’. “As an administration we have had the opportunity to review and understand the fiscal challenges in greater detail with the finance team,” Hon. Missick stated. “And this Government has decided to redirect funding to critical capital projects to ensure the successful completion of projects for which additional funding is required to advance these projects to the contract award notification stage.”

NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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FULL ADMISSION TO TCI BAR This photo shows 138 men and women crammed onto the 50 foot boat (Royal TCI Police Force)

Another overcrowded sloop seized off Providenciales Police intercepted a 50 foot wooden boat near Lil’ Bluff in Providenciales just after 1am on Sunday, March 21, with 138 people crammed on board. A police press release explained that the Coastal Radar System detected the undocumented vessel off the south west of Providenciales and the police Marine Branch was informed. Officers on police boats Sea Guardian and Sea Pursuit intercepted the blue and red sloop with 106 men and 32 women on board at 1.13am and towed it to South Dock Port. At about 4am the men and women, who had travelled 190 miles from Haiti, were examined by the Ministry of Health official

who was present at the dock. They were then loaded onto vans for transport to the Detention Centre where they were handed over to immigration officials for interviews, photographs and fingerprints. “The operation was conducted without incident,” the press office said. At 6am, officers proceeded to the North West Point and the Priton Housing areas of Providenciales to search for evidence of a possible landing. However, nothing was found. The radar operator later confirmed that there was no sighting of another vessel. Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and

Employment Services, said: “These voyages are very unsafe and can lead to substantial loss of life. Please stop this and seek to gain entry the correct way. “As you all can see, we will catch you and we will prosecuted and repatriate you. As I said before, we are putting measures in place to bring a stop to this illegal practice.” Director at the Department of Immigration, Derek Been, told the Weekly News on Monday, March 22, that most of those who arrived to the TCI on the boat had been repatriated. Anyone with information on illegal migration can call 911 or contact Crimestoppers on 1-8008477.

Antigen test results now included on dashboard Antigen or lateral flow device testing results have been included on this week’s national Covid-19 dashboard, the Ministry of Health said on Monday, March 22. In January, the ministry approved testing with the devices in response to the requirement for travellers to be tested before entering the US and UK. They can deliver results in 30 minutes The Government has approved four devices for use in the TCI which have been evaluated by Public Health England and met their requirements for efficacy in testing for Covid-19. Twenty-one travel testing centres have since been in operation after undergoing the relevant inspections, training and fulfilling

the requirements to test. These requirements are set out by the Ministry of Health in accordance with the Public and Environmental Health Testing of Covid-19 Regulations. The results of the tests are now submitted to the Ministry of Health daily and have now been incorporated into the daily dashboard. As of Friday, March 19, a total 20 896 tests had been carried out with lateral flow devices. Since the January 25, a total of 94 had tested positive. A total of 902 tests were carried out on March 19 with a total of three positive results reported for that date or 0.3 percent. Positive cases with lateral flow

devices undergo confirmatory testing at the National Public Health Laboratory and are included with the total number of positives reported. “It should be noted that the persons being tested includes both locals and visitors,” a press release from the ministry said on Monday. The tests will soon be used for the purposes of community screening to ensure that testing for Covid-19 is more accessible on a wide scale. All residents are encouraged to get tested through the various community testing venues throughout the TCI. Anyone can register to get vaccinated at https:// covidvaccineregistration.gov.tc/ or contact their local primary healthcare clinic for more information.

Queen’s Council Andrew Mitchell has applied for general admission to the Turks and Caicos Bar to allow him to practice law freely. The matter came up for hearing on Tuesday, March 9, before Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang, who has reserved her ruling without giving a date for her decision. Mitchell, who heads the corruption trial of ex-premier Michael Misick and others, was represented by attorney Stephen Wilson QC. Many members of Bar Council have strongly objected to Mitchell’s application. What are your thoughts?

Residence permit

I support the Bar Council’s legitimate objection. Mr Mitchell was employed exclusively by the Crown to prosecute alleged corruption charges against certain TCI citizens. While he may or may not have been involved in making the disastrous decision to prosecute 11 defendants at once before an aged judge, at the cost of over $100 million of local people’s money, he has absolutely no right to be admitted to the local bar. If he wants to live in his new house he can do so easily enough with a residence permit, without the right to work.

No objection

Is there a law preventing him from being called to the TCI Bar? If not, then his application ought to be accepted.

Get packing

Very good job to object, Mitchell came here got rich of our tax payers’ money and now wants to compete for local lawyers’ little piece of the bread. Let him go back to England and carry on. Soon there will be no opportunity in the TCI for natives. My opinion is, get packing buddy.

More info

I would like to know what the objections are, before weighing in on this discussion.

Not dumb

Stop playing games. Not all Black people are dumb. Ashcroft/Mike two cheeks of the same backside.

Yet we Black people pretend to be so dumb that we really do not understand how the world is really structured. Next judge - next case - next pretext - like we all so dumb!

Childish bickering

People, give it a rest! Obviously, the man operated within law - laws made mostly by TCI Governments. This bickering seems childish and spiteful. The very same thing that persons are accusing the British government of doing. The man is a British citizen. There is no legal reason to prevent him from buying property in TCI. Finally, the British government will never allow itself to be compromised internationally after it went after the Misick crew for corruption in political office. Think people, think. Certain petty people (based on posts) need to grow up internationally. You can’t expect the rest of the global community to afford the TCI equal partnership administratively and then the TCI continues to act like children when we want to be petty. The world doesn’t work like that. This will not serve the future administrative development of the TCI on the global stage.

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March 23-29, 2021

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Government writes off $12m in NHIB late fees and penalties BY OLIVIA ROSE Over $12 million in late fees and penalties on outstanding contributions owed to the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) has been written off by the Government. Two bills seeking to offer economic relief to residents were enacted by the legislature on Tuesday, March 16, during the House of Assembly meeting in Grand Turk. They were read for the first time on March 5 by Premier Hon. Washington Misick, Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, after the swearing in of members of the House. The first bill is the TCI National Health Insurance Waiver of Additional Charges Bill 2021. This seeks to waive and write off late fees and penalties on all outstanding contributions to the NHIB owed by subscribers up to February 28 - totalling over $12 million. The second bill, the TCI National Insurance Waiver of Additional Charges Bill 2021, seeks to waive and write off additional charges on late payment on national insurance

Man charged over Five Cays robberies Dario Butterfield, 18, has been charged with five counts of robbery in relation to thefts at a bakery and supermarket in Five Cays on March 10. Butterfield appeared in Providenciales Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 17, where he was remanded in custody. He will appear back in court for a sufficiency hearing on May 7. Head of Public Protection, Superintendent Lisa Mitcheson, said: “Although we have someone charged with this offence, we still appeal to the public for further information.” She stressed that police need the support of the TCI public to ensure that all offenders for such crimes are apprehended. “We also seek information about where the weapons used are stored, and we must take them off the streets so that they cannot cause any harm,” she added. Anyone with information on these robberies or any other incident can call 911 or contact Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477.

Premier Hon. Washington Misick said it is not fair for the system to penalise people suffering due to the pandemic (Screenshot/House of Assembly)

Opposition leader Hon. Edwin Astwood during the House of Assembly sitting on March 16 (Screenshot/House of Assembly)

contributions by employers and self-employed persons, up to February 28 - totalling over $700,000. The new PNP Government upon coming to office made a promise to unburden residents still reeling from the economic downturn of the Covid-19 pandemic of these additional expenses. Speaking in the House on Tuesday, Misick summarised both bills. He said they seek to create an environment to support people who

we’re addressing has been long outstanding but it was made worse by Covid-19,” he told the House. “…I believe there are situations where businesses no longer operate and at some stage we have to have a look at that to purge the system so that we are not billing businesses and individuals who are no longer operating. “But for now this speaks to the waiver or write off of charges, interest and other charges that have been applied to the contribution itself.”

are still operating businesses or who may have had to shut their business because of Covid-19 regulations. “People may not even be generating any revenue. I think it’s not fair for the Government or the system to penalise…when there is, in fact, no business being generated.” Misick said the Government intends to review other legislation to ensure that the playing field is levelled and businesses and individuals are treated fairly. “I believe some of what

WAIVER SHOULD BE EXTENDED Leader of the Opposition Hon. Edwin Astwood, during his contribution to the bills, said the waiver should be extended to write off NHIB and NI payments owed. “If we look at the explanatory memorandum, it says, it is unknown at this time when the country will be able to recover from the impacts of Covid-19 and as the crisis continues to result in shrinking CONTINUED 

Man, 66, shot dead in Grand Turk bar Fred Russell Bryan, 66, was shot and killed during a robbery in Dolphin’s Bar in Grand Turk on Thursday evening, March 18. The motive is unknown and while several people are assisting police, no one has been arrested in connection to this murder. Officers were dispatched to the bar, also known as Gashay Bar, on Frith Street, Back Salina, at about 8.40pm after the Police Control Room received reports of a robbery and a shooting. On arrival they found a man unresponsive on the ground with what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. Medical professionals at the scene pronounced him dead at 9.20pm. The day following the homicide, Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams expressed his “sincerest condolences” to the friends and family of Bryan. “I hope that anyone with information will help us bring the person who has committed this

serious crime to justice,” he said. “We should not feel comfortable with criminals causing fear in the community so casually, especially in a small island like Grand Turk. It is time to tell us what you know.” On Monday, March 22, the police press office again released an appeal for witnesses to come forward to assist with the police investigation. “If anyone knows anything or has any information that would be useful in this case, we are asking them to come forward, please,” the press office said. Police particularly want to speak to anyone who was in the area of Frith Street, near the bar, or Good Street, the road that runs behind the bar, between 8pm and 9pm on March 18. “Please contact us if you saw or heard anything and if you have any CCTV, dashcam or other visual recordings that may assist the investigation.”

On Friday, March 19, police executed an authority to search a building in Breezy Bay and they recovered a firearm. A man was arrested in relation to this matter, but no evidence links the firearm to the murder. “There is a lot of speculation going around via a number of social media outlets relating to the murder, but the police cannot confirm this information,” the press office said. “We would like for the public to be mindful of the information they are reading and or sharing.” This was the second murder of the year after 50-year-old Jean Venel Jacques from Haiti was killed in Providenciales on New Year’s Day. Jacques was found dead in a yard on Walter Cox Drive, Kew Town on January 1 with what appeared to be a “blunt force trauma” to the head, the police press office said. Police were called out to the scene at about 6.50am, where the

man was pronounced dead. Curtis Butterfield, 23, was arrested in connection to the murder and was charged on January 18. He was also charged with attempted murder, grievous bodily harm and the carrying and use offensive weapon to cause fear. In 2020, the TCI recorded its highest ever number of homicides at 23. The previous highest was 13 in 2019. The last in 2020 was on December 27, when police received reports of a shooting at about 7pm on Miller Clarke Avenue in Wheeland, Providenciales, and were dispatched to the area. They found a man on the ground with a gunshot wound. He was unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene. He has not yet been named. Anyone with information on any of these murders can call 911 or contact Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477.

NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

All students to head back to school after Easter holidays BY OLIVIA ROSE All public and private schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands will reopen for classroom learning on April 12, Minister of Education Hon. Rachel Taylor has announced. But schools with more than 200 pupils must stagger lesson times so that only 200 are in the building at any one time, and continue to make use of online tools for home learning. During a sitting of the House of Assembly on Tuesday, March 16, Taylor revealed the first phase of the roadmap for the reopening of schools from Monday, March 22, to April 31. On Monday, March 22, schools in the TCI with a population of 200 students or less were allowed to resume face-to-face lessons. Only fourth and fifth formers and grade six students from schools

with a student population more than 200 could return, along with all students from tertiary education facilities. “At the initial stage, face to face classes are given to students that are in the senior grades who are preparing to sit examinations,” Taylor said. “The ministry wants to ensure that these students are given as much support as possible to prepare for external examinations, entry into the labour market and for pathways to lifelong learning.” This initial reopening period is intended to allow students, teachers, school administrators time to readjust to their classes before all schools (public and private) officially reopen on April 12. Taylor said over the Easter holiday the Department of Education will identify any

Minister of Education Hon. Rachel Taylor (far left) conducting an inspection of a public school in Providenciales (Department of Education)

potential issues and work to resolve these kinks before the rest of the students return to classrooms. She said: “During phase one, after the return of the Easter break, we will return all students to school, yes, I repeat, all schools, all students will return to face to face learning.” As part of the ministry’s strategy to capitalise on the Daylight Savings Time, school hours are also being modified. At present, students attending online classes in public schools join from 9am to 1pm. This will continue where online learning remains the dominant form of

A third of TCI’s adults have had Covid-19 vaccine Sixty days after the Turks and Caicos Islands Covid-19 vaccination programme began, 32 percent of the adult population have received their first dose. The TCI Government released its calculations on Friday, March 19, using data gathered up to and including March 14. As of March 14, a total of 11,283 people had received their first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine - which has an efficacy rate of 95 percent after the second dose. That included 9,416 in Providenciales, 1,181 in Grand Turk, 264 in South Caicos, 201 in Parrot Cay, 181 in North and Middle Caicos and 40 in Salt Cay. According to the TCI Statistics Department the population of the TCI was about 45,542 in 2020, with the adult population being about 35,000. As a proportion, 11,283 out of 35,000 is just over 32 percent. Deputy Governor Anya Williams, co-chair of the TCI Covid-19 Vaccination Oversight Steering Committee, said she was

pleased to make the announcement. “The UK has committed to providing the TCI with enough doses to vaccinate our entire population should there be a demand to do so.” She said the Government continues to administer the vaccine for free to all residents through the primary healthcare clinic as well as five private medical practices. It also recently launched an at-home vaccination programme for elderly, bedridden people and will soon be implementing drive-through and community vaccination clinics. Increased testing, appropriate

isolation and increased vaccinations will continue to be the Government’s major priorities, the deputy governor said. She added that while the Government is offering mainly the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, it will also soon be receiving a small batch of the Astrazeneca vaccine from the UK. “We continue to encourage persons to familiarise themselves with the vaccine to obtain the information that is necessary to allow them to make informed decisions,” Williams said. “We express our profound thanks to our healthcare workers for the work that they do every day in helping to keep us safe and healthy here in the TCI and we continue to encourage all residents that can to seriously consider being vaccinated as it is one of our greatest defences!” The TCI received its first batch of Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines from the UK government on January 7, with a second batch arriving on February 25.

lesson delivery. However, in instances where students will be attending face to face classes, school operating hours have been adjusted. Primary schools will open from 8.30am to 2.30pm, and secondary schools will open from 8.30am to 3.00pm. COVID-19 SCHOOL MEASURES As the territory continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic, blanket rules are being implemented at all schools in keeping with Covid-19 health protocols.

The education minister said: “These are exceptional times that have required all of us to take swift action and make drastic changes to our professional and personal lives to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.” She said phase two of the reopening of schools – details of which have yet to be announced - will take from May 3, to July 2, leading up to the end of the school year. “The ministry will ensure that there is continuous liaison with CONTINUED 

Government writes off $12m in NHIB late fees ... CONTINUED FROM 

of the economy the negative impact on personal finances will most likely continue to rise, increasing the continued risk of default,” he said. “We know it will increase the continued risk of default and persons may not be able to pay those contributions and not just the interest.” Astwood argued that the economic hardship induced by the pandemic does not seem to be waning anytime soon. “For example, cruise ships have not been here for over a year in Grand Turk, so taxi drivers, tour operators and persons who work in that sector cannot pay, not just the interest and the penalties, but also the contributions. “I was hoping that even the contributions at this time would be waived, and I do not see the period of time that this is extended for.” He asked if the waiver of fees would just continue until April

and then start again, or if this will be ongoing. “We don’t see tourists coming to the island in the droves that we saw in the past, certainly not this year until vaccinations get up. Persons will not be able to pay those contributions.” He stressed that even though the Government’s efforts will be appreciated by residents, the relief should go a little further. In response to Astwood’s remarks, Misick stressed that the Government has to be wary when it comes to waiving payment of national insurance contributions. “The contribution is the contribution, remember this is all of our pension plan and we have to be very careful how we build flexibility into the contribution itself… “At at the end of the day, it is no secret that what we are trying to do with NIB, what has to be debated in this House, is to see how we can actually develop a part of the system as an unemployment benefit package.”

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Premier and governor join talks on boosting UK-Caribbean relations Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick joined Governor Nigel Dakin in a meeting with foreign ministers from the United Kingdom and Caricom on Thursday, March 18. The 10th UK-Caribbean Forum was hosted virtually this year by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Its aim is to strengthen cooperation between the UK and Caribbean countries, and provide an opportunity for attendees to discuss bilateral, regional and global issues at ministerial level. The UK overseas territories are invited as participatory observers to the forum. In an Instagram post after the meeting, Governor Dakin said it was an excellent opportunity to hear about the overall themes that run through the region. “…and also hear about the totality of the Caribbean-UK relationship along with the amazing diaspora community in the UK.” He said that access to vaccines was a very significant topic of regional conversation with thanks going to the UK for its “very significant” £548 million contribution to COVAX.

Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick and Governor Nigel Dakin join the UK-hosted event (Nigel Dakin/Instagram)

The UK has helped to raise $1 billion for the coronavirus COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC) through match-funding other donors. This will help distribute one billion doses of coronavirus vaccines to 92 developing countries this year. In a press release from the Office of the Premier on March 19, Premier Misick said it was essential that the territory was represented at the meeting to allow brand TCI to

be promoted. He added it was also critical to hear about best practices from other ministerial leaders and discuss major global and regional matters such as economic growth and national security. “It is important that we not only show our strength as a leading country in the Caribbean but it

is equally as important to build mutually beneficial relationships with countries in the region and across the globe,” the premier said. “The ultimate goal is to ensure that the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands can thrive and prosper.” Discussions this year were led by Minister of State for the Commonwealth and United Nations

at the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), Lord Tariq Ahmad. The three main areas of focus were economy, environment, and values and security. The forum heard from various country leaders and received a special message from The Prince of Wales, Charles Philip Arthur George. “Thank you to Lord Tariq Ahmad and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for the invitation. It has been a very productive and insightful day of discussion,” Misick said. “My Government will continue to work to ensure that the Turks and Caicos Islands ascends in upward growth.” The UK-Caribbean Forum takes place every two years, with the UK and a Caribbean country hosting alternatively. Discussions during the forum were captured in a joint communique and an action plan which were signed digitally. The next forum will take place in 2023 in the Caribbean.

Vulnerable citizens to receive $200 food voucher

All students to head back to school after Easter ... CONTINUED 

the Ministry of Health with relevant updates from CDC and inspections by health officials,” Taylor said. “The necessary recommendations will be shared with the schools to ensure that they are all complying with the protocols.” The minister stressed that the health and well-being of students throughout the Islands, faculties, and other stakeholders remains a priority for her ministry. As such, daily screening and maintenance of a register of all students as they enter the school compound is now part of key guidelines that were developed by the Education Department. All students must wear a mask, face shield at all times. Public schools, will have a bubble system, where students will remain within their classroom with their cohorts.

There will be a system of restricted movement of students throughout the campus. Parents are encouraged to send their children with lunch to school, but there will be an option for students to purchase from the canteen. School administrators are asked to put a system in place to allow students’ to take their lunch to the classroom. As it relates to recreational activities, teachers are being encouraged to develop crafty ways to promote activities such as stretching and pause periods in a controlled and closely supervised environment. The ministry is also planning to establish a voluntary Covid-19 rapid testing facility within schools and plexiglass sneeze guards on the desks of each student and teacher. It will also provide additional PPEs, additional cleaning supplies and the necessary number of cleaners per school.

BY OLIVIA ROSE Vulnerable residents in the TCI who are affected by the socioeconomic consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic will receive a $200 food voucher from the Government soon. The support mirrors part of the former PDM Government’s Covid-19 stimulus package programme which provided $200 vouchers to residents in need over three months in 2020. “My ministry has redirected savings identified from the social stimulus programme in the sum of $56,0000,” said Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services. “$16,000 will be awarded to social services to purchase $200 food vouchers that will be made available to the most vulnerable in our communities.” Taylor announced the monetary relief for residents who are struggling to make ends meet during her ministerial statement in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, March 16. She said: “I have not forgotten the vulnerable among us, I have heard their cries as well, their cry for social assistance and support.” She explained that the Red Cross will manage the remaining

Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services, Hon. Rachel Taylor said she has not forgotten the vulnerable (Progressive National Party)

$40,000, which will be dispersed to assist residents in a more organised fashion. “$40,000 will be given to the Red Cross who will work with other NGOs in the TCI such as Salvation Army, Soroptimist, Food for Thought and other groups of the cohort who are best placed to channel these resources to persons that are in need.” She thanked them for the work they have done and continue to do. “I promised the vulnerable people of Five Cays, that we will get them the help they need.

“I promised the vulnerable people throughout the TCI that we will remove the bureaucratic red tapes and we will deliver on that promise.” To ensure accountability, the NGOs and social services will provide the ministry with the necessary documentation outlining their expenditure. Residents must make a formal application for the vouchers with supporting documents. These include TC Islander Status Card, Government ID (passport, driver’s licence, NIB card or NHIP card), copies of expenses such as mortgage or power bills. Applicants must be Turks and Caicos Islanders and unemployed, so not eligible for any other financial assistance under the Government’s economic stimulus programme. To apply online, residents can visit the TCI Government website on www.gov.tc/dsd/stimulus Anyone who is approved for the aid will be referred on a distribution list to a participating grocery store which will create the food voucher in the recipient’s name. Vulnerable people within the TCI have been significantly impacted in terms of their inability to provide the basic necessities such as food for their children and families.

10 NEWS OPINIONS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

Don’t fake it ‘til you make it ‘Fake it ‘til you make’ it is a popular phrase that many of us encounter in our lives and many of us use it to get ahead in life. Fake it ‘til you make it can have some benefits in that you are trying to be someone you aspire to be. However, when you pretend to be something you are not, you may be caught up in the ‘fakeness’ that you lose track of your real purpose in life. Furthermore, when you reach to the level that you thought you wanted to make it to, you will discover that you want to move to a higher level and then you start faking again. Therefore, faking may never end. Most people want to make it in life. Some people will do whatever it takes to make it in life even if it means faking through life. Fake it ‘til you make it may work initially but it will cost you in the end. If you know you cannot do something, learn what you want to do and then try it. Don’t fake your role.

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.

If acting is not your fulltime job, then do not act the part - be real and ask for help. While Wikipedia and some psychologists may suggest that if you fake something, it may eventually become real, this does not work all of the time. The truth always comes out no matter how long you fake something and when the truth comes out, it will cost you.

You don’t need to fake it to impress people or get something you want, because if you do, faking may become a part of who you are and soon thereafter you may be faking in all aspects of your life. The best thing to do is to acquire as much knowledge as possible. It is knowledge and experience that will give you confidence, competence and an optimistic mindset. Once you have knowledge, no one can take

this from you and you do not need to be a fake. Yes, some people want a short cut and want to make it quickly in life so they fake it. It is not worth it, so be real and take your time and you will make it without having to fake your way through it. Don’t practice and do things that other people do because it sounds good and it worked for some people. The important thing in life is to be who you are. This means you should not be a fake. Imagine going to sleep each night wondering if you will be caught for being fake. Wouldn’t you rather sleep well at night? If so, then be honest about your shortcomings. Don’t take on assignments you know that you are unable to do. Don’t pretend to be something or someone you are not. Don’t fake it ‘til you make it. However, have faith in everything you do and you will make it.

Perception, actions and explanations matter PART ONE Building barriers to halt cross-border migration can cause serious reputational damage. The example that most readily comes to mind is the former US president’s contentious promise to build a wall along much of the 2,000-mile US-Mexico border. Others include the Berlin Wall which divided the east and western parts of the city to stop East Germans from fleeing a morally bankrupt state, the much more recent Hungarian ‘border barrier’ which aims to halt migrants travelling northwards, overland, mainly from Middle East conflict zones, and the West Bank wall or ‘separation fence’ constructed by Israel, it says to halt terrorism, but which many Palestinians see as a means of segregation. In each case and others less publicised, the principal objective is or was to construct a physical barrier to halt the movement of economically disadvantaged people or refugees, but few if any have or had associated programmes addressing the economic or social issues driving those on

BY DAVID JESSOP

David Jessop is a consultant to the Caribbean Council. He has worked on Caribbean issues for over 40 years. David is the editor of Caribbean Insight and Cuba Briefing publications. He can be contacted at david.jessop@caribbeancouncil.org

the less privileged side of such obstacles. For many in the region it is one of many reasons why the idea of a wall to halt migration is not just discriminatory, but largely unworkable. It is also why tens of thousands of Venezuelans continue to flee the harsh conditions at home arriving largely unimpeded by sea in Trinidad and the Dutch speaking Antilles, or by land in Guyana and Suriname, and Haitians continue to make the perilous sea voyage north landing if fortunate in the Bahamas, Cuba, or a neighbouring overseas territory. Now, however, the government of the Dominican Republic, following

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consultations with the Haitian presidency, is to construct what will be the region’s first ‘fence’ along parts of the two nations’ 234mile mainly-mountainous border. Although reported to be a ‘wall’, what the Dominican Republic’s president, Luis Abinader, told the country’s congress on February 27, was that it will be a monitored security fence along parts of its border to curb “illegal immigration, drugs and the flow of stolen vehicles”. Combined with a now substantially enhanced military and security presence, it is also intended to suppress the transit of small arms, and individuals of concern to the wider region and the US. Subsequently, the foreign minister, Roberto Alvarez, confirmed that the Dominican government is in discussion with Spanish and Israeli companies to construct a fence at an estimated to cost of over $100 million. Eventually intended to cover 112 miles,

it is expected by the end of this year to cover around 19 miles in areas of easy cross border access. Alvarez said that the overall project would see the construction of a “technological and physical” dual and single border fence involving modern monitoring methods including sensors and drones. Other comments by Enrique Garcia, the director of the country’s General Directorate of Migration, suggest that the fence will involve an integrated approach involving motion sensors, “facial recognition, fingerprints, infrared cameras [and] equipment for the military and other security”. The idea will undoubtedly appeal to many Dominicans and have political resonance with the country’s ultra-nationalists who believe that the country cannot continue to receive any more migrants than the estimated 0.8 million already there from the country’s hugely poor and increasingly unstable neighbour. Despite this, some in opposition such as Gustavo Sanchez, spokesman for the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), believe that “rampant poverty” will see Haitians continue to seek alternative ways to cross the border. Others suggest tighter controls may cause people traffickers to become active, corruption to spread further in the security forces and judiciary, and see many would be migrants displaced to other destinations. To be continued next week.

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Fighting for independence is weak PART ONE

Dear Editor, We need different avenues of tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands. If we’re promoting the TCI to the world as a luxury destination, we can’t be so limited in our amenities. We cannot continue to run this country based on a religious system. What’s good for the goose is good for the gander. Tourism is our bread basket and pays the bills for most of us. We should not only view this destination as luxury, but also see it as a competitive archipelago that continues to elevate higher with the ambition to not only compete with Caribbean islands but also the big dogs in the world. We need to restructure our culture and look at the rich elements of our heritage we can use for global marketing. A country is nothing without its culture. It’s our individual identity of self-expression without words. If we can’t stand out in the world with just a piece of our culture, then we are just a beautiful place on the map. Here are some things we need to look into to compete at every level of tourism: ART Art tourism should be defined broadly as any activity that involves travel to see art. It would include those people who travel very specifically to see art somewhere else, as well as those who often or occasionally include visits to see art among other activities during tours, holidays or other trips away from home. FASHION Fashion tourism is a niche market segment evolved out of three major sectors - creative tourism, cultural tourism and shopping tourism. INVESTMENT Investment tourism is the process of identifying and marketing to visitors travelling to or already within a destination who may be potential investors in economic opportunities. These range from buying a second home, to opening or relocating a business, to investing in major development or redevelopment projects. WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS Wedding and honeymoon packages should include same sex marriage packages. Money is money at the end of the day. There is no gay money or straight money - it’s all equal.

SPORTS AND FITNESS Direct spending by sports tourists at host facilities, hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues stimulates the local economy. Jobs are created, and tax revenue is earned. Notable sporting events may also improve the image of, and opportunities available in, the areas in which the events are held. This is a very big market. NAUTICAL Nautical tourism, also called water tourism, is tourism that combines sailing and boating with vacation and holiday activities. CANNABIS I think if this country legalised cannabis it would bust our economy. One motivation for legalisation is the economic benefits that can come from the regulated commercial availability of marijuana. Increased tax revenues, job growth, and investment opportunities all are powerful incentives to push for legalisation. That’s a market within itself. EDUCATION Educational tourism can be defined as tourism that pursues educational learning as a pretext for a trip. Either learning knowledge (historical, cultural, social) or learning a language more and more practiced every day. Education has used tourism as a tool to complement learning, accumulating experiences from practice. HEALTH Health tourism, is a wider term for travel that focuses on medical treatments and the use of healthcare services. It covers a wide field of healthoriented tourism ranging from preventive and health-conductive treatment to rehabilitation and curative forms of travel. This will take us back to culture, in many aspects. The TCI has so much powerful plants that we can use to cure many illnesses. We often follow a very ancient medical herbal practice that’s been passed down from our ancestors. Let alone a wide spread of locally known bush doctors. We must embrace them and finetune the practices and help heal the world through tourism. Jeritt Williams, Providenciales EDITOR’S NOTE: Part two of this letter will be printed in next week’s newspaper.

NEWS 11

PNP minister denies $2k stimulus ‘promise’ BY DELANA ISLES Hon. Akierra Missick has denied that any elected member of the House of Assembly made any promise about a $2,000 stimulus payment during the PNP’s general election campaign this year. The matter was brought up during a sitting of the House on Friday, March 19, by Opposition appointed member, Hon. Alvin Garland during his two-minute speech. While first stating that the Opposition will support any legislation the Government proposes for the betterment and empowerment of Islanders, he launched into the $2,000 stimulus rumour. “There have been promises that were made during the campaign…I stand to be corrected but it is my understanding that it was promised by the PNP that if they are elected, the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands can look forward to a stimulus of $2,000 per month, for three months.” Hon. Garland continued: “I would like to be the first to say that the Opposition supports this wholeheartedly and the Opposition encourages the Government to make good on that promise and deliver that stimulus of $2,000.” At this stage, Hon. Akierra Missick, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, Planning and Development, rose on a point of

Hon. Akierra Missick order to correct the Opposition member. She said: “The member has not heard a single person that was elected to this chamber make those statements during the campaign, so the member is imputing improper motive…and we would not like to mislead the public in any way, shape or form.” Speaker of the House Gordon Burton agreed with Missick and urged Garland to withdraw his statement. Hon. Garland withdrew the statement with clarification, stating: “If I was not correct, if I was mistaken in what I said, I said there were promises made by the Progressive National Party. “There were agents of the Progressive National Party during the campaign rally who made

these statements that if the PNP is elected into Government that there will be a stimulus of $2,000 given to the citizens.” These agents were not named, and the House moved on from that particular touchy topic. However, the Opposition appointed member did say that even if the alleged promise is nothing but a rumour, he encouraged the Government “to consider a stimulus of $2,000 per month for three months for every Turks and Caicos Islander”. Meanwhile, Garland also wants the new Government to extend its recently unveiled immigration policy to halt the issuance of work permit renewals. “The immigration policy can go further,” he said, “and I would like for you to consider placing a moratorium on renewal of work permits of certain categories.” It is his belief that if a halt is placed on renewals of work permits for outsiders working in certain categories (not specified), Turks and Caicos Islanders would benefit from these newly freed up jobs. “I believe the people will be more impacted if there is no renewal on work permits of certain categories... because those jobs that Turks and Caicos Islanders are looking towards, they can now apply for these jobs if there is a moratorium placed on renewing work permits.”

SIPT lawyers granted limited admission to the TCI Bar BY DELANA ISLES The three British attorneys who have had carriage of the government corruption trial for the past five years have been granted limited admission to the Turks and Caicos Islands Bar. They are lead prosecutor Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell, Quinn Hawkins and Katherine Duncan of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT). Approval was granted for their admission by Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang on Monday, March 22. The limited admission will allow the SIPT legal team to hear and participate in Thursday’s

hearing of a constitutional motion presented on behalf of the defence by Queen’s Counsel Ariel Misick. Deputy Attorney General, Khalila Astwood-Tatem, submitted an affidavit in support of the three lawyers’ limited admission. In brief comments approving the applications, the chief justice found that the SIPT legal team is qualified to be admitted on a limited basis. Attorney David Cadman appeared in the hearing on behalf of the TCI Bar Council. Cadman sought to provide the court with a short notice on behalf of the council, but was advised that there is no duty to consult with the

council on limited admission, only general admissions. However, he was advised by the chief justice that she would take the council’s statement as an advisory brief. Meanwhile, a decision is still pending on Mitchell’s application for full admission to the local bar. The council strongly protested Mitchell’s application during a hearing on March 9. His application and the views of the Bar Council on why it should be rejected are now in the hands of the chief justice for her decision. For the first SIPT-led trial Mitchell had been granted limited admission to the TCI Bar to take the case through.

12 NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCI Hospital to get two new dialysis nurses An alarming increase in patients seen with chronic diseases complicated by renal failure led InterHealth Canada to ask the Government for funding for two more dialysis nurses. Cabinet approved the request from the healthcare management company, which is part of a larger proposal to expand the haemodialysis service at the two tertiary healthcare facilities. The two additional full-time dialysis nurses will serve 12 months as an interim measure and on an emergency basis. The additional of human resources will expand the department’s capacity to cover treatment shifts for the next year, a press release from TCI Hospital on Thursday, March 18, said. The haemodialysis service consists of ten specialist nurses and one dialysis technician. A full-

time nephrologist also supports the service. There are six dialyser machines and four back-up machines at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. Cockburn Town Medical Centre has three dialyser machines and two back-up machines. Consultant nephrologist at TCI Hospital, Dr Vancelee Forbes, said the dialysis unit welcomes this increase in staff as an interim measure to improve safety and increase its capacity. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with the TCI Government to improve services, including facilitating the growth of the home dialysis programme and increasing opportunities for kidney transplantation.” Among the other requests which will be submitted to expand the haemodialysis service are additional infrastructure and

The two additional full-time dialysis nurses will serve 12 months (TCI Hospital)

equipment. There are 55 patients currently on dialysis across both medical centres and an average of six to eight new patients per year who require treatment. Chief of allied services at TCI

300 students to receive laptops for remote learning BY OLIVIA ROSE More than 300 students in the TCI will receive laptops and other electronic devices through a Government and private sector partnership to help with remote learning. Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor revealed the technological support during her ministerial statement in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, March 16. She said: “We cannot fail our students, as we make this shift from online learning back to face to face and blended instruction. “We must work to ensure that students are receiving the same high-quality instruction they would have under normal circumstances.” She explained that the Government is awaiting 300 laptops from the Pine Cay Project and an additional $17,000 worth of devices sponsored by The Shore Club resort in Providenciales. The Pine Cay Project, is a charitable organisation that makes grants to schools and other organisations in an effort to promote learning opportunities for TCI students. Taylor added: “Our partnership

with the private sector will improve as we work together for the betterment of our children. “In the new financial budget, we will address procuring additional electronic devices for our children so that no child will be left behind.” This comes as the Ministry of Education gears up to reopen all schools after the Easter break with a hybrid approach to learning. The blended strategy will see students alternating between the traditional classroom setting and online learning as the ministry works to prevent Covid-19 transmissions. Taylor said over the Easter break high definition cameras will be installed in classrooms to aid in the delivery of optimal online learning. “Additionally, we will provide additional hot spots onsite at the public schools that will boost the internet service. The minister said her ministry is fully committed to providing the resources and helping the education system to transition to one that can effectively navigate the “new normal”. “This requires us to pivot the odds in our favour and to capitalise

on the seeds of opportunity through consultations and strategic collaboration.” She said the ministry intends to provide additional after school programmes for struggling students to provide greater one on one support to improve their literacy and numeracy skills. “The ministry will continue to review its budget ceiling and identify savings which can be reallocated towards this initiative in the next budget cycle or the new academic year.” As has been the case elsewhere around the world, Covid-19 has interrupted schooling for every student in the TCI. In March 2020, public and private schools were closed by the Government to prevent the coronavirus infections. In place of regular instruction, schools hurriedly shifted to online teaching. However, because many TCI students lack access to computers and broadband internet, large numbers of TCI students became unable to reliably communicate with their teachers, participate in instruction, and complete assignments.

Hospital, Eleanor Hall, explained that the treatment session for a dialysis patient is four hours in duration and takes place three times a week. “The additional nurses would help us adjust treatment shifts to better hours, prepare for new patients, and reduce the extended working hours currently required to deliver treatments. “The hospital’s senior management team will continue to proactively discuss and seek support from TCI Government on long-term measures to meet the

growing patient demand.” According to the Pan American Health Organization, chronic kidney disease is an increasing public health issue worldwide and deserves focused attention in the Americas. Globally, diabetes mellitus and hypertension are the major causes of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. A similar picture is also accurate for the TCI. The Cabinet meeting which approved the extra staff was held on March 10 at the Office of the Premier in Grand Turk.

Register now for free Easter camp for kids A four-day free Easter camp, held virtually from March 29 to April 1, will be packed full of education and interactive activities for young people aged seven to 16 years old. The Department of Youth Affairs is hosting the event, under the theme, ‘The me I want to be: Building resilience in an ever-challenging world.’ “This camp aims to bridge the gaps that separate our youth from reaching their highest potential,” the Government press office said on Tuesday, March 16. It will equip attendees “biblically, mentally, physically and educationally” with the knowledge, materials and experiences needed to remain resilient and goal oriented, it

added. “This world will indeed challenge us but it is important not to give up but to stay on path and fight until the finish.” Youth officers will present activities from 10am to 11.30am each day and at the end of the four days each full participant will receive a small token of appreciation and a certificate. “Individuals will come by the offices to pick up their tokens outside and leave, following all Covid-19 protocols,” the press office said. Anyone who wants to join the camp can register at https://forms.gle/ C2Wmfa3nxrHVapL87 and the Zoom information will be forwarded to the email provided.

March 23-29, 2021

NEWS 13

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

THE SALT CAY NOTE

The TCI is among the top 20 counties and territories when it comes to vaccines given per 1,000 people as of March 18 (Pharmaceuticaltechnology.com)

Titus de Boer gets his jab (Titus de Boer)

Captain Allan Dickenson was one of the first prominent Saltans to receive the Covid-19 vaccination, as ever leading by example (Titus de Boer)

The mouse that roared I

Salt Cay’s path to becoming a vaccination world champion

t all began with an email from Saba. Yes, you read that correctly, Saba. That five-square mile Dutch island, which lies in the northern Leeward Islands, some 578 miles south east of Salt Cay. While famous for not having a beach, also for being a centre for world-class diving, for boasting the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Mount Scenery), and for offering excellent food and exquisite hospitality, Saba recently made regional and international news for an 85 percent vaccination rate of its adult population. And boy did they run with it! In the words of the Public Health Department Saba: “We are proud of the large number of people who came out during the first round to take their vaccination, and we are encouraging everyone to come for the second vaccination against Covid-19. “It is very important to come for the second vaccination to achieve the maximum level of protection. This will also help to protect the youth and others who are not vaccinated.” Having jabbed 1,330 persons during their first round of vaccinations, the Saba health authorities hope to reach a 90 percent level after the second round. Saba currently has the highest coverage within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is internationally recognised for having done

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

exceptionally well. “We are up there with the highest coverage in the world,” Dr Koen Hulshof, who heads the Public Health Department Saba, recently proclaimed - no doubt with a degree of pride and satisfaction. So back to that email, entitled, ‘Vaccinated! Saba is a word leader.’ It had been sent as part of a regular newsletter I receive from a Saba-based company. The message it contained was upbeat, thankful, hopeful and yes, unapologetically

proud: “Government officials here on Saba and in Holland, doctors, nurses, volunteers did spectacular and heroic work organising the entire vaccination process, bringing us one step closer to opening our borders and welcoming people back. “We’re a small island and it’s no exaggeration to say we’re world leaders in our work to support our people during this challenging pandemic. “Saba has been Covid-free for a long time. We’re proud of that fact, and we worked hard to maintain it! “Other countries can learn from Saba (even with its compact size) how to succeed and support their communities by honestly connecting and caring for people hoping to fulfil their potential. Saba has gone above and beyond and that’s real public service.” No sooner had I read the joyous Saban email than a press release from the Turks and Caicos Islands Government landed on my desk, entitled, ‘Turks and Caicos Records 32% Covid-19 Vaccination Rate.’ The press release went on to inform the public that, “As of Sunday, March 14, 2021, a total of 11,283 persons in the Turks and Caicos Islands had received their first doses of the Pfizer BioTech Covid-19 vaccine. “This included: 9,416 persons on the island of Providenciales; 1,181 on the island of Grand Turk; 264 on the island of South Caicos; 201 on the island of Parrot Cay; 181 on the islands of North

and Middle Caicos and 40 persons on the island of Salt Cay. “Based on data from the Turks and Caicos Islands Statistics Department which estimates a population of 45,542 persons resident in the islands in 2020; 32% of the estimated adult population of approximately 35,000 persons have been vaccinated in the islands thus far.” And there it was: The Turks and Caicos Islands are among the top 20 countries and territories, when it comes to vaccinations. Of course, this wouldn’t be the Salt Cay Note, if one didn’t take this just a step further to look at the true champion of champions - you’ve guessed it, Salt Cay! As I write this column (March 20), the district commissioner informs me that we have a resident population of 96 persons. In other words, 41.7 percent of Salt Cay’s current population has been vaccinated already, making it the undisputed champion of the Turks and Caicos and a pretty strong contender for world leadership - as far as vaccinations go. One more round and we’ll hit the 95 to 100 percent mark, easily. So picture this, dear Salt Cay Note reader - an island that has never had a single Covid-19 case recorded and which could soon boast a close to 100 percent vaccination record! We are on the verge of making history. I know we can do it. So let’s get on with it! For one thing is abundantly clear, if we don’t capitalise on this, the Sabans surely will.

14 NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

Sergeant Carl Lightbourne died on Tuesday, March 16 (Royal TCI Police Force)

Police announce death of friend and colleague Sergeant Carl Lightbourne died on Tuesday, March 16, after 32 years with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams, who was terrific friends with ‘Lighty’, said he chose as his career service to others, “and for that, we all benefited”. “Our friendship goes back to the 1980s while we were in high school, and later we both graduated in 1983 and again became colleagues within law enforcement. We will miss him tremendously.” He said he has spoken to Lightbourne’s wife and other family members and reassured them of the force’s love and support. “We ask that everyone keep his wife, children, other family members and friends in your prayers,” Adams said. “To lose his life at an age with much more to offer is truly heart-breaking, and my deepest thoughts and sympathies are with all who knew him. May his soul rest in peace.”

Lightbourne enlisted into the force on May 2, 1988, at the age of 22 after graduating from the Regional Police Training Centre in Barbados and went on to serve in several roles. During the last few years of his life, he was a supervisor on the Response and Operation Unit on Division A in Grand Turk. “Sergeant Lightbourne had an easy-going personality and conducted himself as a true professional,” a police press release said on Wednesday, March 17. “He was passionate about music and was one of the founding members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Combo Band, where he remained a member for many years.” More than 80 people wrote messages of sympathy to the much loved and respected husband, father, colleague and friend after the news was posted on the force’s Facebook page. The date of Lightbourne’s funeral has not yet been announced.

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Corn likes rich soil and full sun to grow well (Wikipedia)

How to grow corn I’ve had great success growing corn in the Turks and Caicos Islands, but there have been a few challenges. The best time to plant corn here is October through April, so this is your last chance before summer. Sweetcorn is the best tasting variety of corn that you can grow. Sweetcorn can come in white or yellow. Not all varieties of corn are created equal in terms of taste. Sweetcorn has more sugar in it compared to field corn which is grown for livestock consumption. The best varieties for the TCI are early sunglow which is yellow, and silver queen which is white. When planting corn it’s important to plant in blocks. You need at least a few rows of corn in order to ensure that proper pollination occurs. Corn is mostly pollinated by the wind, by planting thick blocks of corn this helps all of the kernels get pollinated. If you just plant one long row of corn you may not see many full cobs on your plant, you drastically lower your pollination chance. It’s best to

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.

have a minimum of four rows. Plant seeds six to eight inches apart and plant the rows about one foot apart from each other. In a small square, you can fit a good number of corn plants. When planting corn you need to also pick a spot that will get at six to eight hours of full sun. Healthy organic-rich soil is also important. Don’t forget to lay down a thick layer of mulch after planting as well. On island mulch will help your garden tremendously. Corn needs a bit of attention. You must provide corn with plenty of water, you need to fertilise regularly and watch for bugs. You will notice that silk looking hairs will begin to emerge from your plant. This is how the kernels get pollinated. The tassels that grow above the silks are what the pollen drops down on. As I said, corn will greatly benefit (as will most veggies) from regular fertilisation. A good wellbalanced fertiliser will do the trick. Each nutrient does something

different for your plant but corn can use them all. You can use an organic vegetable and tomato fertiliser. Corn is usually ready for harvest 60 to 90 days after planting. A sign that corn is ripe and ready for harvest, is that the once golden blonde silky hairs will be brown. They begin to turn brown from the end and work their way closer to the corn. After all of the silks are brown, peel back the husk and take a peek, does it look like all the kernels are formed? If so pick the ear and cook it right away. After harvesting, corn does not stay sweet for very long. Science happens, and sugars are converted to carbs inside the kernels. The ear loses its sweetness. It’s best to pick it and cook it on the same day. You have to watch out for armyworms and corn earworms. A good organic chemical control is thuricide.

March 23-29, 2021

NEWS 15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Power company awards employee scholarship FortisTCI has awarded employee Todiriko Saunders a full scholarship for him to take a bachelor’s degree with a United States university. Saunders will be studying for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geographic Information System Technology online with the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona.

He started his career at FortisTCI in 2011 as a planner before working his way into his current role as the company’s only geographic information system (GIS) specialist. In a press release on Wednesday, March 17, FortisTCI president and CEO Ruth Forbes said GIS is critical to the company’s daily

operations, and these skills are limited locally. “We also know that the three Ds – decarbonisation, decentralisation and digitisation – are transforming the energy sector at a rapid pace, and the use of GIS has become increasingly important to the management of our field assets.”

She said that this is why, as technology advances, the company must stay ahead of the curve to leverage capabilities in the most efficient ways possible. “As we look to the future of energy, GIS will play a major role in grid modernisation and strategies to achieve operational efficiency.

“I am proud to see Todiriko’s commitment to his professional development and the growth of our sector.” Upon completion of the degree, Saunders will be equipped to optimise new technologies to improve mapping, line design, engineering, outage management and customer response.

FOOD 

Chop Off Champion and cinnamon rolls Donvonno Cox is owner and chef at the Islands’ newest food hotspot, the Habour House and Eatery. He was raised on both the island of South Caicos, better known as ‘The Big South’, and the ‘Green Garden Isle’ of North Caicos. He is a self-taught local chef who loves the kitchen. “My love for cooking started when I was a teen,” he said. “At home I would take every opportunity that was given to me to assist with preparing dinner for my family. “I specialise in local dishes but anything I put my mind to and practice I can perfect. “I have had the opportunity to showcase my talents in the Quarantine Chop Off which was judged across the TCI in which I became the 2020 Quarantine Chop Off Champion. “During the pandemic, my wife and I decided to share some of my cooking talents with friends and family. “This grew beyond our expectations and now I am sharing my delicious meals with persons around the island.” From deliciously fresh baked

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.

Glazed cinnamon rolls (Jago Moore)

pizzas to wings and seafood combination platters, you can

always have it your way when you eat here.

Habour House and Eatery owner and head chef Donvonno Cox

Please show them your patronage, I promise that you will

enjoy every bit. Top Chef TCI recommended.

Cinnamon rolls INGREDIENTS

Dough 1 cup milk ½ cup melted butter 1 cup warm water 1 tbsp active dry yeast 1 cup sugar 1 tsp salt 2 large eggs 6 cups all-purpose flour Cinnamon filling 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 cups light brown sugar ½ cup softened butter Glaze 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Pinch kosher salt Directions • Heat milk until warm to the touch (110 degrees on a thermometer). Transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer; add yeast. Let stand until foamy, about five minutes. • Stir in butter, granulated sugar, egg, flour, and salt until a ragged dough forms. • Place bowl on mixer fitted with the dough-hook attachment; mix on medium-low speed, scraping sides and removing dough from hook a few times,

until soft and pliable, about 15 minutes. • Transfer to a lightly floured surface; knead into a ball. Transfer to buttered bowl (dough will be very soft) and cover with plastic wrap. (Dough can be covered and refrigerated at this point up to two days). • Let rise in a warm place until almost doubled, one hour and 10 minutes to one and a half hours. Brush a nine by 13 inch glass baking dish with butter; set aside. • Filling: In a medium bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Punch down dough; transfer to a

lightly floured surface. Roll out to a 14 by 18 inch rectangle. • Spread evenly with butter, leaving a half inch border on far long edge; top with brownsugar mixture. • Starting at the long edge closest to you, roll dough away from you into a tight jelly-roll shape. • Transfer, seam-side down, to a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes. • Trim ends, then cut roll crosswise into 12 one and a half inch thick rounds with a serrated knife. • Arrange, cut-sides up, in prepared dish; cover with

plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least eight hours or overnight. • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove rolls from refrigerator and place in a warm spot until almost doubled in size, about one and a half hours. • Remove plastic and bake until browned on top and a thermometer inserted registers about 210 degrees, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool in dish on a wire rack for 10 minutes. • Glaze: Meanwhile, whisk together cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Spread rolls with glaze; let cool for 15 to 20 minutes more before serving.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

March 23-29, 2021

Antigua PM asks US President for COVID vaccines for CARICOM ANTIGUA and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has written to US President Joseph Biden, requesting that CARICOM countries be included in the provision of AstraZeneca vaccines to Canada and Mexico. Pointing out that the Caribbean is the third border of the United States, Browne argued that as the safety of the US would be imperiled if Canada and Mexico are not inoculated to achieve herd immunity, similarly the US would remain at risk if CARICOM countries are neglected. Browne explained to Biden that the Caribbean region “is among the worst affected by the COVID-19 pandemic”. Consequently, he said, “our economies have experienced shrinkage of up to 30 per cent; unemployment has risen to over 50 per cent in some cases; poverty has expanded everywhere; and our revenues have declined precipitously, forcing us to increase debt which we have had to incur at high rates of interest”. He asserted that “the vulnerability of states must become an important criterion in the provision of vaccines, and the Caribbean region is among the most vulnerable in the world”. Describing the economic impact of the pandemic as “overwhelming”, Browne said: “Many Caribbean countries are in danger of collapsing from a massive economic sclerosis”.

Jamaica is ranked as the 37th happiest country in the world, making it the happiest nation in the Caribbean with a score of 6.309 Gaston Browne explained to Biden that the Caribbean region “is among the worst affected by the COVID-19 pandemic”.

The Caribbean leader added that “If these conditions are not addressed soon, we face a crumbling of our security systems from which drug traffickers, money launderers, people traffickers, and organised crime will take advantage to the detriment of our countries and of the US. Inevitably, there will also be a surge of refugees”. Browne implored Biden “to take account of the Caribbean – the third

border of the US – in his plan to make the US safer by contributing to the safety of its neighbours. “For instance,” he said, “it would take only a few hundred thousand vaccinations to inoculate 80 per cent of the seven countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. Reaching herd immunity would also be an excellent testing ground by which the US could judge the efficacy of herd immunity”. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Bahamian Senator: We have failed as parents if we rely on government to raise our children IN a tearful address, Senator Lisa Bostwick-Dean said if Bahamians are reliant on the government to raise and discipline their children, then they would have failed as parents. While on her feet in the Senate last week, Mrs Bostwick-Dean became emotional as she sympathised with the mother of 10-year-old Kenron Dean who was shot dead while at his home on Finlayson Street last Thursday night. Police reports say that shortly after 9 o’clock that evening, they were called to the scene of the shooting in Bain Town and discovered four people shot. Young Kenron, who according to a relative was looking forward to having fun at a promised movie night, was pronounced dead on the scene. His twin brother, young cousin and uncle were also injured during the incident. “This is the first time we sat since the killing of yet another child in The Bahamas,” Mrs Bostwick-Dean said. “I am actually glad that there was a moment to catch oneself before speaking to that. But I had intended on Friday morning to speak to that matter.

The FNM Senator Lisa Bostwick-Dean said that Bahamians cannot rely on the government to do everything and should begin managing their homes.

“To the family of that young boy and sadly to the family of the other families that have suffered the loss of children to gun violence in our Bahamas, it is just inconceivable. We are killing our children by shooting them dead. And children while they are with their families. There is something just incomprehensible

and horrific about where we are.” Mrs Bostwick-Dean, daughter of former Free National Movement politicians Janet and Henry Bostwick, said if the country continues on in this manner, where “children are killing children”, then it would surely have a disastrous future for its citizens.

Jamaica ranked happiest country in the Caribbean Jamaica is a far happier place than it was a year ago, despite the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to results from the World Happiness Report for 2021. Jamaica is ranked as the 37th happiest country in the world, making it the happiest nation in the Caribbean with a score of 6.309, according to the United Nationssupported report which was released on Friday. The latest results compares to a ranking of 60 in last year’s report, representing an improvement of 23 places. Jamaica’s old ranking is now taken by Croatia. Jamaica’s 37th place is just below Brazil (35) and Mexico (36), and just above Lithuania (38). The World Happiness Report normally surveys the state of global happiness and rank countries by their happiness levels by examining elements such as GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, perceived corruption and generosity. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic globally, the report for 2021 focused primarily on the relationship between public wellbeing and the pandemic, which made collecting responses from around the 149 countries surveyed particularly challenging. “This year’s Happiness Report was faced with a unique challenge in trying to understand what effect the pandemic has had on subjective well-being and vice versa,” the organisation behind the report said in a statement. “Of all the factors usually supporting happiness, the most important for explaining COVID-19 death rates were people’s trust in each other, and

confidence in their governments,” it added. This trust, report editors said, is one of the main reasons that Finland remains the happiest country in the world for the fourth consecutive year. Meanwhile, Jamaicans are perceived to be significantly happier than people from the island of Hispaniola, with the Dominican Republic ranked at 73 — compared to 68 last year - and Haiti ranked close to the bottom at 143, compared to 142 last year. Interestingly, Trinidad and Tobago which ranked 42 on the list last year, was not included on this year’s list, along with most Caribbean islands, including Cuba, Puerto Rico and countries in the Leeward and Windward chains. Other Central American countries with Caribbean shores ranked higher than Jamaica, with Costa Rica ranked at 16, Guatemala at 30, and Mexico at 36. Panama, Colombia, Nicaragua and Honduras were exceptions, scoring lower than Jamaica at 41, 52, 55 and 59, respectively. With the survey ranking Finland as the happiest country, the top five was rounded out by Denmark (2), Switzerland (3), Icelamd (4) and the Netherlands (5). The top 10 also includes Norway, Sweden, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Austria. The United States saw its happiness rating slip slightly from 18 to 19, two places below the United Kingdom at 17. At the bottom of the list of 149 countries was Afghanistan with a score of 2.523. The African nations of Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Botswana were also at the bottom of the listing. (Loop Cayman)

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

73 per cent of Cayman women feel barriers to career progression

The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti called the killings “fratricidal violence”.

Officers kill two policemen amid violent protests in Haiti TWO policemen were killed Monday by disgruntled officers who are members of a group known as Fantom 509 that has organised violent protests in recent days. The fatal shootings occurred in the neighbourhood of Delmas in the capital of Port-au-Prince. Last week, Fantom 509 members stormed several police stations and freed jailed colleagues accused of participating in an alleged coup against embattled President Jovenel Moïse. The group is also demanding

the recovery of the bodies of four police officers whom gang members killed more than a week ago in a shantytown known as Village of God. Eight other officers were wounded that day, including SWAT team members. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti called the killings “fratricidal violence” in a tweet on Monday and said local authorities should prioritize the cohesion of Haiti National Police and find peaceful solutions. (News597)

THERE is significant work to be done to achieve gender equality in the Cayman Islands. A key takeaway from Gender Equality Cayman’s 2019 survey is that there is a real divergence in the experiences of men and women in the workplace. 73 per cent of women think women encounter barriers in career progression, whereas 45 per cent of men held the same belief. It was also noted that, in the legal industry, an equal number of male and female graduates begin as associates, whereas – at a senior level – only a fifth of partners are female. Overall, the 2019 survey showed that less than half of the respondents believed their current company had attained the status of an equal opportunity employer. As a community, it is our responsibility to create highly productive, profitable and stable businesses by growing truly diverse, equal workplaces. The folks at Gender Equality Cayman are seeking to help businesses attain this goal by developing, promoting and distributing the tools needed to create a fair and inclusive culture at work. Every two years, Gender Equality Cayman conducts a survey of the Cayman Islands workforce to learn more about the needs, attitudes and experiences with regards to gender equality within the Cayman Islands. “During my time in 2019 as Deputy Chief Officer in the Community Affairs Ministry for the Cayman Islands Government, I witnessed firsthand the impact of Gender Equality

Cayman’s work. Gender equality affects all facets of society, so it’s vital to have committed, creative, collaborative assistance from GEC. They’ve been highly effective in building support from businesses, to produce meaningful and enduring outcomes,” says Andre Ebanks – Candidate for Westbay South. By exploring workplace dynamics, Gender Equality Cayman is initiating meaningful, constructive conversations about the positive role of gender diversity in the workplace. To understand exactly what businesses are doing right – and where they need to improve, the national survey takes an inside look at the companies that surround us. “We’re identifying the gaps that need filling to ensure all organizations can develop fully inclusive workplaces. This isn’t a one-off project for us, and it shouldn’t be a passing thought for your company either. By conducting extensive research every two years, we’re noticing the positive correlation between gender diversity in leadership teams and improved business performance. Ultimately, businesses that have a gender balanced leadership team are more likely to be successful and profitable,” say the folks at Gender Equality Cayman. By getting as many responses as possible to the 2021 survey, Gender Equality Cayman will be able to see exactly how Cayman has moved forward in two years, understand what else it can do to

attain equality for women, and drive for equal access to benefits, like shared family leave for men. At the same time, Gender Equality Cayman would like to analyse the impact that COVID-19 has had on the state of gender equality in the workplace. “Within the Cayman Islands Civil Service, we’re committed to helping each person realise their full potential. Gender equality is a core principle in that, and I’m proud that half of our Chief Officers are women. Still, there’s much work ahead to achieve parity, so we continue to support the work of Gender Equality Cayman. With more than half of 2019’s respondents coming from the public sector, I encourage civil servants to lead the charge once again in participating in this important survey,” said Gloria McField-Nixon, Chief Officer of the Portfolio of the Civil Service, Cayman Islands Government. In 2019, more than 1,000 participants took the survey and helped Gender Equality Cayman to see the current state of gender equality in the Cayman Islands. This year, there are hopes that the survey will reach even more members of our community, to incite greater change. Respondents should be aged 1865, at any stage of their career, and actively working in any sector of the workforce in the Cayman Islands. The survey is open until Friday April 7, so don’t miss your chance to have your voice heard. (Loop Cayman)

Over 61000 vaccinated for COVID in Barbados

The main objective of the Dominican Republic Government is to create employment.

DR manages to reactivate 40 thousand tourism jobs and create new ones PRESIDENT Luis Abinader assured that more than 40 thousand jobs have already been recovered in the tourism sector after the closure of hotels due to the pandemic. He indicated that at present, the main objective of the government is the creation of employment, for which it is projected to recover some 10,000 direct and indirect jobs as of March. “Apart from that recovery, 18 thousand new jobs have been created for people who did not work before in this area and the announcements

of projects in the cruise tourism sector, in thematic areas and new mega-projects such as that of the province Pedernales and others yet to be announced,” said the president. He explained, during a press conference where he referred to the projection of tourism in the country and the strategies that the government is implementing for its recovery, that “this is the first economic sector in the country in terms of the generation of foreign exchange and what it has to do with employment and foreign investment.”

OVER 61 000 people were vaccinated against COVID-19 up to Friday as part of the National Vaccination Programme. As part of the National Vaccination Programme for COVID-19, 624 people were vaccinated on Sunday. To date, 61 752 vaccinations have been administered – 25 746 men and 36 006 women. Additionally, eight positive cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed on Sunday. The new cases – three men and five women – were identified from among the 261 tests conducted by the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory. Meanwhile, 28 people recovered and were released from isolation. The number of cases in isolation is 161. The number of active cases being reported daily continued to decrease as a result of high discharge numbers during the month of March. Differences in the numbers were also the result of the subtraction from the

Up to Sunday afternoon, 61 752 vaccinations had been administered in Barbados.

overall number of people who were in isolation for assessment. They were counted as discharged, but were never active positive COVID-19 cases. An audit of the numbers was therefore done to allow the active cases reported to reflect the count that was actually in isolation on the day. This would have entailed

adjusting the discharge numbers. Going forward, the number of active cases will be taken from the daily count in isolation. Since the pandemic began, there have been 3 559 confirmed cases – 1 704 females and 1 855 males – and 3 358 people have recovered from the virus. The public health laboratory has so far completed 136 463 tests.

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

England: £5,000 fine for people going on holiday abroad A £5,000 fine for anyone in England trying to travel abroad without good reason is due to come into force next week as part of new coronavirus laws. The penalty is included in legislation that will be voted on by MPs on Thursday. Foreign holidays are currently not allowed under the “stay at home” rule which ends on Monday. From next week the ban on leaving the UK will become a specific law, backed up by the threat of the fine. Under the current plan for easing restrictions, the earliest date people in England could go abroad for a holiday would be 17 May. However, another surge in Covid cases in continental Europe, as well as the slow rollout of vaccines across Europe, has cast doubt on the resumption of foreign travel. Government adviser Prof Neil Ferguson, of Imperial College London, told BBC Radio 4’s World at One border measures should be relaxed more slowly than domestic restrictions. He said: “I think conservatively, and being risk averse at the moment, I think we should be planning on summer holidays in the UK not overseas.” Prof Ferguson also criticised the exemptions that currently permit foreign travel and suggested everybody should be subject to

Australian politics is back in the headlines, a week after protesters gathered outside Parliament House.

Under the current plan for easing restrictions, the earliest date people in England could go abroad for a holiday would be 17 May.

mandatory testing when arriving into the UK. Legally-permitted reasons for foreign travel currently include work, volunteering, education, medical needs, and to attend weddings or funerals. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said restrictions on travelling abroad for leisure were necessary to guard against the importation of large numbers of cases and new variants which might put the vaccine rollout at risk. Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves told BBC Breakfast that Labour supported measures

to keep the UK’s borders secure and avoid the importation of new variants but said the government’s “slowness to react” had contributed to the country’s high death rate. Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned on Monday the UK should be “under no illusion” that it will feel the effects of a rising number of cases on the continent. One of his ministers, Lord Bethell, said England might put “all our European neighbours” on the “red list” of countries. However, Mr Hancock told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme there were no plans to do this.

Covid: Brazil’s Bolsonaro calls governors ‘tyrants’ over lockdowns Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has described as “tyrants” state governors and mayors who have imposed lockdowns to contain the coronavirus outbreak. Addressing supporters at his birthday celebrations in Brasilia, he said his government had done all it could and it was now time to reopen the economy. Last week, the country’s leading health institute Fiocruz warned of a historic collapse of Brazil’s health service. It said intensive care units in hospitals were running out of capacity. Mr Bolsonaro, who was 66 on Sunday, has consistently opposed quarantine measures, arguing that the collateral damage to the economy would be worse than the effects of the virus itself. Earlier this month, the president told Brazilians to “stop whining” about the pandemic. Mr Bolsonaro’s handling of the outbreak has triggered widespread criticism both home and abroad. In a separate development, Brazil’s

Aide fired after Parliament House sex videos shock Australia THE crisis engulfing Australia’s politics has continued to grow following the emergence of videos showing staff members performing sex acts in parliament, leading to one senior aide being fired. One video showed the aide performing a sex act on a female MP’s desk. Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the videos as “disgraceful”. It comes after a former staff member revealed how she feared losing her job following an alleged sexual assault. Brittany Higgins alleges she was raped by senior colleague in an office in March 2019, but says she felt pressured not to report the incident to police. It sparked a wave of allegations, and last week, thousands took part in marches to protest against the sexual abuse and harassment of women in Australia. WHAT ARE THESE NEW VIDEOS? The videos were leaked to Australian media by a former government staff member, who said he had become “immune” to the pictures because of the sheer volume he received. As well as the videos - filmed two years ago - he said people had used the prayer room to have sex and even brought sex workers into parliament. The whistleblower described a “culture of men thinking that they can do whatever they want”, describing some of his colleagues as “morally... bankrupt”.

Brazil’s intensive care units are struggling to cope with a new influx of patients.

health ministry said on Sunday it was lifting its requirement for local authorities to reserve half their vaccine stockpiles for second doses. Outgoing Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello said the aim was to get at least one vaccine dose to the maximum number of people as fast as possible, according to the AFP news agency. Brazil has been struggling with the

rollout of its vaccination programme across the vast country. So far, it has been using the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and China’s CoronaVac, both of which require two jabs. Brazil has also placed orders for the Pfizer-BioNTech, Johnson & Johnson and Sputnik V vaccines. Brazil has the world’s secondhighest number of Covid-related deaths - only behind the US.

WHAT HAS THE REACTION BEEN? Mr Morrison told reporters on Tuesday he was “shocked”, adding: “We must get this house in order. We must put the politics aside on these things, and we must recognise this problem, acknowledge it, and we must fix it.” He has previously been criticised for his response, including for declining to meet protesters last week. He had invited march leaders

to meet him in parliament, but they rejected the offer saying they would not meet “behind closed doors”. Questions over the government’s handling of the crisis were once again raised after backbench government MP Michelle Landry said she “felt sorry” for the fired aide. But cabinet minister Karen Andrews told reporters her “conscience will no longer allow me to remain quiet” over sexism in Australian politics, saying gender quotas for political representatives should be considered - something Mr Morrison indicated he would not be entirely opposed to. “We tried it the other way and it isn’t getting us the results so I would like to see us do better on that front,” he told reporters. Labor, the opposition party, already have quotas in place. WHAT ARE THE OTHER ALLEGATIONS? There has long been allegations of bullying and harassment in Australian politics. However, Ms Higgins’ allegations have shone a spotlight on sexual assault and sexism. In the days after she went public with her story, more allegations emerged - with Attorney General Christian Porter revealing he was the subject of a 1988 rape allegation. He denies the allegation, and police closed the investigation because of a lack of evidence. Ms Higgins’ former boss, Defence Minister Linda Reynolds, was also forced to apologise and pay compensation to her former aide, after calling her a “lying cow”. Critics say the government has also been too slow and ineffective in responding to wider accusations of sexism and misogyny in parliamentary culture - a problem they say extends across party lines. The Labor opposition has said it would review its culture after dozens of anonymous allegations of sexual harassment and sexism against male figures within its party.

March 23-29, 2021

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Boulder shooting: Gunman kills 10 at King Soopers grocery store A GUNMAN has killed 10 people, including a police officer, following an hours-long stand-off at a grocery market in the US state of Colorado. The attack in Boulder ended with police detaining an injured suspect at the King Soopers market. The shooting was live-streamed by witnesses and broadcast on YouTube. Among the dead was 51-year-old Eric Talley, who was the first police officer to respond to the shooting. “This is a tragedy and a nightmare for Boulder County,” the area’s district attorney, Michael Dougherty, said. “These were people going about their day, doing their shopping. I promise the victims and the people of the state of Colorado that we will secure justice.” No other details have been released about the nine other victims or a motive for the attack. The grocery store is located in a busy shopping plaza in Boulder, a north-central Colorado city about 30 miles (50km) away from the state capital of Denver. The supermarket attack comes less than a week after a mass shooting that

Dozens of FBI and SWAT officers were deployed to the scene.

left eight dead, including six Asian women, at three spas in Atlanta. WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE SHOOTING? The incident began at about 14:30 local time (20:30 GMT) on Monday when the suspect entered the supermarket and began firing. Shoppers and employees of the store said they had to dive for cover

or run to safety as the shooting unfolded. Some of the stand-off was captured on camera by a passer-by, showing victims near the grocery store. “I don’t know what’s going on... I heard gunshots, someone’s down,” the cameraman shouts. “There’s an active shooter, get away”. Gunshots can be heard as he runs

away from the shop. The video continues, with police arriving on the scene and surrounding the market. The Boulder police department later warned people to avoid the area and told them not to “broadcast on social media any tactical information you might see”. “We were at the checkout, and shots just started going off,” said Sarah Moonshadow, a customer caught up in the shooting with her son Nicholas. She told Reuters she had tried to help one of the victims lying on the pavement outside the store, but her son pulled her away saying “we have to go”. “I couldn’t help anybody,” she said. Ryan Borowski, who was also inside the store, told CNN he could not believe what had happened in his town: “This feels like the safest spot in America, and I just nearly got killed for getting a soda and a bag of chips.” Eyewitnesses said the suspect was armed with a rifle. A police source told CNN it was an AR-15 style rifle, a semi-automatic gun that has

been used in several mass shootings across the US. Aerial footage later showed a handcuffed, shirtless man with an apparent injury to his leg being put onto a stretcher for treatment. Authorities did not say whether he was the suspect or not. Speaking at a press conference, Boulder police chief Maris Herold confirmed that a suspect was in custody and was receiving hospital treatment. “I want to reassure the community that they are safe,” she said. Ms Herold named the officer killed as Eric Talley, a father of seven who had been with the Boulder Police Department since 2010. “The heroic action of this officer when he responded to the scene... phone calls of shots fired in the area and a phone call about a possible person with a patrol rifle,” she said. Ms Herold did not provide further details about the shooting, but said that the investigation was “very complex” and would take “no less than five days to complete”. The names of the other victims will not be released until relatives have been informed. (BBC)

Coronavirus: Germany imposes Easter lockdown to curb new surge GERMANY has extended its lockdown for three weeks, imposing an almost complete halt over the Easter holiday in response to a third wave of coronavirus infections. After talks with regional leaders, Chancellor Angela Merkel said Germany was now in a “very serious” situation. Restrictions will be even tougher from 1-5 April, when most shops will be shut and gatherings will be limited. Meanwhile, France’s president wants vaccinations “morning, noon and night”. Emmanuel Macron was responding to an increase in intensive care cases and warnings of an “explosion” in hospital admissions. “Essentially, we have a new virus,” Chancellor Merkel said after marathon talks with the leaders of Germany’s 16 states. The highly contagious UK (Kent) variant of coronavirus had become dominant in Germany, she explained, plunging the country into “a new pandemic”. It is much deadlier, much more infectious and infectious for much longer. Germany was in a race against time to roll out vaccinations against the coronavirus, she added. Tuesday’s lockdown extension to 18 April marks a reversal from earlier this month, when state leaders agreed to begin a cautious reopening process. For five days over Easter from 1 April, Germans are being asked to

Restrictions will be tougher from 1-5 April, when most shops will be shut and gatherings will be limited.

stay at home and reduce contacts: · In-person religious services are cancelled · Big family gatherings are banned, with no more than two households, or up to five people, allowed to meet · All shops are shut, apart from food shops on Saturday 3 April. The infection rate has risen above 100 per 100,000 inhabitants in Germany. A further 7,485 infections have been reported in the past 24 hours, as well as 250 deaths. An “emergency brake” will halt further reopenings in areas where infections exceed 100 new cases per 100,000 people over a seven-day period. Coronavirus infections have been surging in some parts of Europe in

recent weeks as countries scramble to vaccinate their populations despite delays in rolling out jabs. France’s vaccination drive has been relatively slow to get off the ground, partly due to delayed supplies of the Oxford/Astra-Zeneca vaccine and confusion surrounding the safety of the inoculation. However, the head of the French hospital federation, Frédéric Valletoux, warned on Tuesday that number of new cases was “exploding” and hospitals were likely to be hit in the next two to three weeks by a “wave of unprecedented violence”. French hospitals admitted another 471 patients into intensive care in 24 hours, and another 15,792 cases

were reported on Monday evening. President Macron, on a visit to the northern town of Valenciennes, said that from Saturday the vaccination campaign would be extended to people aged 70-75. “We’re fighting to get hold of doses... there are no weekends or public holidays for vaccinations,” he insisted. So far the campaign has focused on over-75s and the most vulnerable aged 50-74. From late April, teachers and other key workers in exposed positions would also be given the jab, he promised. France aims to have 10 million people vaccinated by mid-April and 30 million by midJune. While cases in other European countries are rising, Denmark has

announced a timetable for further reopening. “We will proceed with caution. We can open up more now in Denmark, in contrast to several other countries, where the third wave of corona is a reality,” said Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Among measures agreed late on Monday by Danish leaders is a proposed “corona pass”, which would say whether the holder has been vaccinated, previously infected or has had a negative test in the past 72 hours. Children under 15 would be exempt. The aim of the passport, which will be available on mobile phones as well as on paper, will be to enable people who fulfil the requirements to go to the hairdresser, a restaurant or eventually a cinema. The current plan is to reopen small shopping centres from 13 April and larger ones from 21 April, along with outdoor eating at cafes and restaurants. Cinemas and indoor dining would resume on 6 May. The prime minister said most restrictions would be lifted once all over-50s had been vaccinated, which she expects to happen in May. The rollout of vaccinations across the EU is far behind the scale of vaccinations achieved by Israel, the UK and US. The EU regulator, the European Medicines Agency (EMA), has so far approved four vaccines - from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and Oxford/AstraZeneca.

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TCHTA welcomes new board of directors The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) has welcomed a new board of directors during its bi-annual elections. Members virtually nominated and consequently elected the executives and directors that will lead the body for the next two years. At the virtual AGM on March 18, members learned that Trevor Musgrove of Discovery Tours and Adventures had been elected as the president of the association. Musgrove, having served on the board as a director for the past six years, is excited to get started in this new capacity. In his acceptance address, he said: “I love these Turks and Caicos Islands and I will channel this passion into my new role. “We have an opportunity to take the TCHTA to new heights, and I

intend to take advantage of every opportunity to do just that.” The new president shared his immediate goals with the association’s members. Among those is fostering an environment that will increase the local community’s confidence in the TCHTA while sending a clear and strong message that the association supports its colleagues in working to build an industry that is beneficial to all stakeholders. Now in year four of its 20172022 Strategic Plan, the association continues its pledge to drive the industry and brand TCI to new levels. Musgrove will be supported by the executive team and directors for the 2021-2023 term. They are, executive officers: vice president Tapahari Tibble, COMO Parrot Cay; treasurer Colin Sterling, CSC

Insurance Management; secretary Mona Beeson, The Sands at Grace Bay. Directors: Karen Whitt, The Hartling Group; James McAnally, Beaches Turks and Caicos; Tendra Musgrove, COMO Parrot Cay; Yolander Forbes, Seven Stars Resort and Spa; Kashmie Ali, Sailrock Resort; Adam Twigg, The Source; Stewart Howard, Turks and Caicos Collection; Wilbert Mason, Ocean Club Resorts, and Paul Telford, The Shore Club. Musgrove takes over the presidency from Todd Foss of the Inn at Grace Bay who served in the capacity from 2019. He will now ascend to the seat of chairman along with past president Nikheel Advani of Grace Bay Resorts, while Stacy Cox continues in her role as CEO of the association. In his departure speech to members, Foss expressed his congratulations to Trevor,

Trevor Musgrove of Discovery Tours and Adventures was elected as the president (TCHTA)

applauding his bravery for accepting the position in the midst of the uncertain times. He reflected on their time spent working on the board together over the years and extended his support and confidence to the incoming president. “Trevor’s commitment and passion for this country and for the association shines through everything he says and does. “I am proud to call him a friend and comrade and have enjoyed the work we have accomplished together as a part of the TCHTA.

“He will do an exceptional job as president and I am excited for the association’s future achievements with Trevor at the helm.” On February 25, the 2019-2021 board of directors were gifted with tokens of appreciation for their time and service to the TCHTA. The newly elected directors were formally introduced to media on Tuesday, March 23. The TCHTA aims to assist organisations through networking opportunities, training, promotional activities, and representation at all levels of decision-making.

TCI to be promoted in new Airbnb campaign The late Henderson Williams, former “well-respected and hardworking” police sergeant (Royal TCI Police Force)

Funeral of former police officer set for April 10 The funeral of newly retired police sergeant Henderson Williams will take place at 1pm on Saturday, April 10, at St Thomas Anglican Church in Grand Turk, it has been announced. A public viewing will take place at Grand Turk Police Station on Friday, April 9, from 4pm to 7pm. Williams was enlisted in the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force on January 9, 1984, and worked in various units on both Division A and Division B. He officially retired from

force on December 23, 2020. Williams died aged 60 on Friday, March 5, after battling a medical illness. In a press release on March 8, Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams said he was saddened to learn of his death. “He was a well-respected and hardworking police officer who thrived on doing his best to execute his duties.” Adams said he spoke to Williams’ wife during his illness to offer words of comfort and has since expressed condolences to her and the family.

Airbnb and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) have launched a campaign to promote tourism to Turks and Caicos Islands and other Caribbean destinations. The campaign rollout includes email newsletters, a landing page, and ads on social media showcasing rental listings and the TCI’s safety protocols to millions of engaged Airbnb users. The promotional landing page for this partnership will be unique in that it will integrate multiple CTO member countries with links to each country’s website. Airbnb has pledged to share data with the CTO, including travel trends, to aid informed marketing decisions during this recovery period. Director of Tourism Pamela Ewing said the TCI Tourist Board is excited to partner once again with Airbnb to feature the best that the destination has to offer. “…this campaign affords us the opportunity to promote our ‘Beautiful by Nature’ islands in a key source market – the north-east of the United States. “We look forward to welcoming travellers to the Turks and Caicos Islands and feel confident that our protocols under the TCI Assured

programme allow us to safely host visitors.” She stressed that these measures are proving successful at not only protecting visitors but also residents. “This allows guests to focus on enjoying the exceptional vacation experience afforded by the destination, our picturesque beaches, and our world-class hospitality partners.” Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management, told the Weekly News she is happy with the partnership. “As you know we safely opened our borders to international travel on July 22. We did so with clear safety protocols and a pre-travel portal set up to vet all arrivals.” The travel criteria included having a negative Covid-19 PCR test and proof of insurance. Compliant hotels and industry service providers were also given a TCI Assured decal. “These measures assured that we were more than qualified to participate in this programme,” Connolly said. “We have proven that we are a safe jurisdiction and we are able to

use this to our advantage.” This joint undertaking with the CTO builds on Airbnb’s commitment to help strengthen communities in the Caribbean in tough times. Carlos Munoz, Airbnb policy manager for Central America and the Caribbean, said: “With the Caribbean continuing to re-open, we’re helping to usher in the safe return of travel to this wonderful region by shining a light on the many places to see and things to do. “We’re also excited to promote the important economic impact driven by hosting on Airbnb.” This partnership is one of the many initiatives in the CTO’s ongoing programme to help its members rebuild tourism in their destinations. Neil Walters, acting secretarygeneral of the CTO, said: “The partnership with Airbnb will help us to promote the region responsibly by providing our members with a platform to showcase their destinations while at the same time highlighting the health safety measures that each has implemented to ensure that visitors can enjoy a safe Caribbean experience during this time.”

March 23-29, 2021

NEWS 21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Scores of police officers at the devotional service (Royal TCI Police Force)

The event featured speeches from senior members of the force and representatives from the Governor’s Office and TCI Hospital (Royal TCI Police Force)

Police force thank God for his goodness during pandemic Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force attended a devotional service on Friday, March 19, to recognise what God has done for them during the Covid-19 pandemic. The event featured speeches from senior members of the force,

Deputy Governor Anya Williams and TCI Hospital CEO Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. It was held from 7am at the Ethel Ingham Centre in Providenciales where social distancing and mask wearing protocol were followed. Acting Commissioner of

Police Rodney Adams welcomed speakers, officers and guests to the service, according to the police press office. “Your presence here is a clear indication of your commitment, dedication and support to the force,” he said. He explained that on Wednesday, March 17, the police Executive Team decided that it was important to pause to give God thanks and praise for his goodness. “Thank you for your continued service and hard work while putting yourselves on the frontline daily to protect the communities of the TCI. Your service is indeed appreciated.” Deputy Governor Anya Williams said: “As we near the first anniversary of the pandemic, it is only right that we offer thanks and prayers for our officers who have

worked tirelessly on the frontline to ensure our security and safety.” In her speech she said Covid-19 has directly impacted the force, with several officers having been placed in quarantine, testing positive and some having lost their lives. “We offer our sincere condolences to our fallen officers’ families,” she said, “and thank God for his mercies in keeping our officers who are still with us today. “We thank you for your service and ask that you continue to be vigilant and make smart decisions concerning your health as we continue to work in this challenging environment.” TCI Hospital CEO Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant reminded officers that they play an important role as frontline workers in protecting and serving the

community. She stressed that the protection offered by the Covid-19 vaccine is an important tool that can be lifesaving in their work. Braithwaite-Tennant spoke in detail about the vaccine and added that she hoped she had brought greater clarity and assistance in decisions about the Covid-19 vaccine. Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Darron Williams, Assistant Commissioner of Police Kendall Grant and all ranks of the force were in attendance. Newly appointed Chaplain Father Alvardo Adderly, Bishop Coleta Williams III and Dr Pedro Williams delivered prayers on behalf of the force and their families A similar service is to be held on Grand Turk in the coming days.

Father Alvardo Adderly signs the memorandum of understanding (Royal TCI Police Force)

Police force welcomes new chaplain Father Alvardo Adderly of St Monica’s Anglican Church is now serving as chaplain for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams and members of the Police Welfare Association welcomed him to the force on Thursday, March 18. During the event all parties signed a memorandum of understanding. In accepting this role, Father Adderly said: “Policing is a very demanding and difficult role, particularly as officers must deal with areas that are sensitive in nature, and I am happy to help and provide the support needed during these increasingly challenging times. “I have a fondness for those who serve their country, and I look forward to opportunities to listen and care for those who are serving our community.” The new chaplain will address police officers’ needs by providing a listening ear,

supportive presence, individual counselling, or effective referral, the police press office said. His other responsibilities will include accompanying officers to assist in death notifications and other traumatic events and responding to critical incidents and natural disasters. He will also attend funerals and memorial ceremonies hosted by the force. Adams said: “I don’t believe that any other organisation is confronted with more situations that demoralise and create emotional, mental, and spiritual burdens than police officers.” He said the chaplain programme is a “tremendous” resource for various needs within the organisation and the community. “I am happy to have Father Adderly’s expertise, who will serve as a voice of compassion for officers during a crisis and further the diverse support we provide to the TCI community.”

Deputy governor visits schools on first day of reopening As schools reopened for face to face learning on Monday, March 22, Deputy Governor Anya Williams showed her support. She visited pupils and staff in Oseta Jolly, Enid Capron and Ianthe Pratt Primary Schools, and Clement Howell and Louise Thomas High Schools in Providenciales. In a Government press release on Monday, Williams reminded that the Government closed all schools across the TCI on March 18, 2020, and transitioned to online learning. “It has certainly been a long year met with a number of challenges, but our principals, vice principals and teachers worked tirelessly throughout the year to ensure that their students were still able to benefit from learning,” she said. This was done by having to completely restructure their syllabus, materials and course work and by having to reimagine the traditional forms of teaching into a new virtual classroom. “The task certainly wasn’t easy, but they were committed, selfless and persevered,” the deputy governor said. She added that it was a pleasure to visit the schools to see the teachers and students back in their classrooms eagerly engaging

Deputy Governor Anya Williams visiting a school in Providenciales (TCI Government)

in their work and preparing for external exams. “I reminded the students of the need to ensure that they wore their face masks, sanitised, social distanced and paid keen attention to the advice of their teachers,” Williams said. “I also reminded the teachers of the need to ensure that the health protocols were strictly adhered to and to make smart decisions regarding their health including the need to carefully consider being vaccinated to prevent exposure to themselves and also to their students.”

She said that as everyone works to return more students to the classroom, regular testing and increased vaccination will continue to be two of the Government’s primary healthcare goals. “The Ministry of Education is our largest employment sector, it plays such an integral role in our society in nation-building and in helping to mould and to educate our children. “We are grateful for the work that they do and continue to wish them our personal best as we transition to the next phase of our Covid-19 reopening strategy,” she said.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ENTERTAINMENT

Franklin’s family protest about National Geographic’s Genius biopic ARETHA Franklin’s family have denounced a new dramatisation of the singer’s life, saying they were not consulted and “do not support” the show. Genius: Aretha stars British Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo, and is being shown on National Geographic in the US. The channel said it had permission to make the “tribute to Aretha’s genius”. But the family say they were cut

out of the production process and asked fans to boycott it, saying: “This is about common, decent respect for our family.” The Queen of Soul’s granddaughter Grace posted a video of her protesting against the show alongside her parents, siblings and friends last week. In a TikTok clip, they can be seen chanting: “This movie has to go! This movie has to go!” “As the immediate family, we

Aretha Franklin’s music moved millions of people and sound-tracked social change over five decades.

feel that it’s important to be involved with any biopic of my grandma’s life, as it’s hard to get any accurate depiction of anyone’s life without speaking to the ones closest to them,” she explained. “During the process of writing, directing, and filming this movie, we’ve reached out to Genius as a family on multiple occasions where we have been disrespected and told we will not be worked with. “As the immediate family -

emphasis on immediate - we do not support this film and we ask that you also do not support this film, as we feel extremely disrespected, and we feel there will be many inaccuracies about my grandmother’s life.” Aretha Franklin was one of the biggest stars of pop, soul, gospel and R&B, who scored more than 100 hit singles on the US Billboard charts from Chain of Fools and Respect to Think and (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.

Her extraordinary success was matched by an equally dramatic personal life, in which she survived abusive relationships and worked with civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King. A separate big-screen biopic of her life was already in production when she died of pancreatic cancer in 2018. Starring Jennifer Hudson, it has been produced with input from the family and is due to hit screens this summer.

Jamie Foxx (left) will play boxer Mike Tyson.

Foxx to play boxer Tyson in authorised biographical series from Martin Scorsese JAMIE Foxx is putting his fighting gloves on. The Oscar winner has signed on to star as Mike Tyson in Martin Scorsese’s limited series “Tyson,” the team announced Monday. The authorised biographical series was initially presented as a movie, still with Foxx attached, before switching to the small screen. Tyson will serve as an executive producer on the series, which will “span the life of one of the most legendary boxing figures of all time.” “I have been looking to tell my story for quite some time,” Tyson said in a statement. “I look forward to collaborating with Martin, (director Antoine

Fuqua), Jamie and the entire creative team to bring audiences a series that not only captures my professional and personal journey but also inspires and entertains.” “Tyson” will counterprogram Hulu’s own eight-episode miniseries, “Iron Mike,” from the creative team behind 2017’s “I, Tonya.” Tyson urged fans to boycott Hulu’s series, calling it “a prime example of how Hulu’s corporate greed led to this tone-deaf cultural misappropriation of the Tyson life story.” “Hulu to announce stealing a black athlete’s story during Black History month couldn’t be more inappropriate or tone deaf,” he wrote on Instagram in February.

Survivor is an acclaimed reality television show.

‘Survivor’ to begin production in Fiji after year of COVID delays “SURVIVOR” is reborn. The reality series is set to begin making new episodes in Fiji for the show’s upcoming 41st season, host Jeff Probst announced Monday. This comes more than a year after production was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We have all of our COVID protocols in place so that everybody in Fiji will remain safe, all of our crew will be safe and of course our

players will be safe,” Probst said in a Twitter video. Production was initially postponed by CBS in mid-March 2020, with hopes at the time that operations could resume two months later. That didn’t end up being the case, however, and the new season of “Survivor” was ultimately removed from the network’s fall schedule last summer.

A release date for the 41st season has not been announced. “I’ve got to tell you, I can’t remember a time I’ve been this pumped to shoot ‘Survivor,’ and I’ll tell you why,” Probst said in Monday’s video. “The past year has reminded me, and I hope it’s reminded you, that you got to live your life like it’s one big, great adventure, and ‘Survivor’ fulfills that.” (NYDailynews)

ENTERTAINMENT

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

Clive Myrie to replace John Humphrys as Mastermind host BBC journalist Clive Myrie has been named the new host of quiz show Mastermind, replacing John Humphrys, who has stepped down after 18 years. Myrie will be the fifth host of the BBC Two quiz, which marks its 50th anniversary next year. “They are big shoes to fill but all I can do is bring a little bit of my own personality to what is a grounded format,” he said. He will continue to present programmes like the BBC’s News at Six and Ten. “That side of me is still very much there, but it’s good to be able to be liberated every now and again when I do Mastermind,” he added. Myrie recently won two Royal Television Society journalism awards - for network presenter of the year and television journalist of the year. As well as being a newsreader, he is known for his work as a foreign

Clive Myrie is known for presenting the BBC’s News at Six and Ten.

correspondent and recently fronted a series of acclaimed reports from hospitals dealing with the Covid pandemic. On Monday, he said he thought producers had offered him the Mastermind job after seeing his lighter side on the BBC News Channel’s late-night newspaper round-up. “I can’t imagine they would have got me to present Mastermind if it

was just seeing me in some refugee camp in Yemen,” he said. “It’s that other side of my personality that I think they noticed.” In a statement, Kate Phillips, the BBC’s director of entertainment, said: “Clive will be a superb host, witty, wise and with a wicked sense of humour, he’s a consummate interrogator who also understands the fear involved when facing a barrage of questions in the spotlight.”

HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE AUCTION Sun Oil Turks & Caicos Limited is accepting bids on used heavy-duty vehicles. All vehicles are being offered on an “AS IS, WHERE IS” basis. Bidders are encouraged to perform their own inspections on or before April 9th, 2021. Inspections are by appointment only, kindly contact us at 649- 946-4377 to arrange. Further terms and conditions are outlined on the bid portal which can be accessed as outlined below:

Bette Midler and former President Donald Trump have been going at each other on Twitter since at least 2012.

Midler mocks Trump’s efforts to return to social media FORMER president Donald Trump has one more reason to return to social media — his old rival Bette Midler. The Divine Miss M was quick to undermine the 45th president’s plans to launch his own social media platform after former Trump advisor Jason Miller said Sunday that his old boss would “completely redefine the game” with such a project in two to three months. Midler went on Twitter — from which Trump was banned for his involvement in January’s deadly insurrection at the U.S. Capitol — to suggest a couple of names for the venture. “I hear he’s going to call it ‘Qwitter’” she tweeted. “Or ‘Hicktock.’” Defenseless on social media, the ex-president spoke on Lisa Boothe’s

right-wing podcast Monday where he claimed his words have more weight now that they’re in shorter supply. “When I put out a statement, it’s much more elegant than a tweet,” Trump said “In a certain way, it’s bigger than ever.” Before being banned from Twitter, Trump boasted nearly 88 million followers. While Midler has only 2 million, she slugged above her weight-class in her feud with the counter-punching heavyweight, which got international attention when the pair exchanged virtual body-blows in June 2019. That skirmish started when Midler misfired by falsely attributing a quote about the gullibility of GOP voters to the then-president, who was on a diplomatic trip to Great Britain. She apologized, but apparently that wasn’t enough for the prez.

Country-western singer Taylor Dee, considered a rising star in the music industry, was killed in a car crash last week.

Country singer Taylor Dee dies in car crash in Texas

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KLH8535 Auction closes at 5PM, APRIL 12th, 2021

COUNTRY-WESTERN singer Taylor Dee, considered a rising star in the music industry, was killed in a car crash earlier in March in Euless, Texas, a suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. According to KULR 8, a local NBC affiliate, Dee was driving a 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer around 10:30 p.m. March 14

when she lost control while turning toward an exit ramp and struck a barrier. However, the vehicle rolled and Dee, who was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the car. A male passenger who had been wearing a seat belt remained in the car and survived but was injured, Euless Police Sgt. Scott Peterson said.

March 23-29, 2021

Classifieds

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

26 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

#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 23-29, 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 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BOHIO DIVE RESORT

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

28 CLASSIFIEDS LJ CONTRACTING SERVICES #5 KASS ROAD, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

MASON

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 23-29, 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

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

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 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 29

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

CONTACT: 346-0002

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24606

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

KITCHEN HELPERS

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

BOHIO DIVE RESORT

KITCHEN HELPER

HOUSEKEEPER / CHAMBERMAID

GRAND TURK

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 PLEASE EMAIL: INFO@ BOHIORESORT.COM

24663

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

BARTENDER 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:

WAITER

TASTY SWEETS

Is seeking applications for:

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.

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 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. 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

30 CLASSIFIEDS

March 23-29, 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 #7515 Ford Fiesta 2009 White 2011 White $18,000.00 $5,000.00

# 7833 Town & Country #7768 Grand Caravan 2012 Chrysler Silver 2010 Dodge Blue $8,800.00 $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 #6858 Nissan Note 2010 Red 2010 Grey $6,000.00 $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 #7011 Toyota Passo 2010 Burgundy 2009 Black $3,000.00 $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 #7767 Grand Caravan 2009 White 2010 Black $3,500.00 $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 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

REEF RESIDENCE RESORT

PHILEMON JENNINGS GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

HOUSEKEEPER

LABOURER

Coral Gardens, Lower Bight Is seeking to employ a

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS 31

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

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION (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 Doreen Claudia Barrows by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

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

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

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

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Resumes should be sent to dpapke@portsofcallresort.com or dropped off at the resort. 24598

THIS IS NOT A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL AD-POSITION TO START APRIL 3/21

32 CLASSIFIEDS ALL STYLE HAIR CUT BARBER SHOP #7 BLACK CROW, KEW PLAZA, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

BARBER

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments. Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 441-3791

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24701

GOOD TASTE RESTAURANT #70 Five Cays Rd

BAKER - $10

Measure and mix raw ingredients, bake and decorate items, and ensure that all raw and finished goods adhere to quality and food safety standards.

CHEF - $12 HOURLY

Setting up workstations. Preparing ingredients. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

CONTACT: 246-5186

Belongrs are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24669

DOROTHY GERTRUDE BEEN

BREEZY BRAE, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To clean and Maintain premises by raking And cleaning yard disposing of Refuse, cleaning construction sites. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 243-4125

PAINTER

Required by Medical Practice: 1. Full time 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

EMAIL: KATHLEENCANNON@GMAIL.COM NO LATER THAN APRIL 20TH, 2021.

FABRICE GRINDA

Millennium Hgwy, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

NAIL TECHNICIAN Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails. Salary: $8.50 hourly

CONTACT: 243-4580

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24684

24667

203 LONG BAY BEACH, LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

PERSONAL AGENT

• Overseas and on island rep. • Spearheads the estate and management of family. • Plans travel dates. • Assist with owners reservations. • Personal Shopping. • On call for 24 hours. Salary: $5,000 monthly

CONTACT: 347-3630

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24674

IMPERIAL SECURITY SERVICES

Keeping the kitchen tidy at all times along with Restaurant area. Washing dishes and pots and putting them away in respective places. Dispose of garbage in kitchen after cleaning. All other duties assign by management. Salary: $6.75 hourly CONTACT: 946-4472 EMAIL: TATE@GILLEY’SCAFE.TC Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24685

MANPOWER SERVICES

3 Hope Street, Grace Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

PLUMBER

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

Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids. Installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc. Salary: $700 bi-weekly

CONTACT: 348-2374

CONTACT: 241-4976. EMAIL: MANPOWER-SERVICES@HOTMAIL.COM

A work permit holder holds this position. Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24700

EXPERIENCED RN

5A Windwood Drive, Leeward Highway

GEORGINA CASTILLO

24673

DISHWASHER

BABYSITTER

B&L CONSTRUCTION

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.

GILLEY’S CAFE

#3 AVIATION DRIVE, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

ASSOCIATED MEDICAL

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is for renewal of a work permit application.

AIRPORT TERMINAL, AIRPORT RD Is seeking to employ a

JARAD BURKLEY WILLIAMS

March 23-29, 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 24680

Water Loo Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

SECURITY OFFICER

- $7.50 HOURLY Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry. Obtains help by sounding alarms.

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS - $6.50 HOURLY Cleaning and other jobs.

CONTACT: 946-2375

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit renewals 24682

OLIVER BEEN

Hospital Rd, 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, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-6712

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24712

ENID J. FERGUSON

Silverado Rd, South Dock 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: 244-2251

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24670

Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. Salary: $300 weekly

BEACH COTTAGE CONCIERGE LTD

BUTLER

Greet guests at the door, assist in the planning of events and dinner parties, oversee table settings, and serve drinks and food. Salary –$12 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS WILL HAVE PREFERENCE. INTERESTED APPLICANTS ARE URGED TO APPLY BY CONTACTING INFO@TRITONLUXURYVILLA.COM OR 347-3630 203 LONG BAY BEACH DRIVE, LONG BAY, AND TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. 24675

DWIGHT SWANN

DANESI GUERRIER

CONTACT: 231-2134

24683

#3 Wendell Swann Apt., Wheeland, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

#16 BY THE NEW TESTAMENT, BLUE HILLS 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

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: 244-2121

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24710

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24715

CONTACT: 345-5284

HORIZON CONSTRUCTION LTD. #101 Grace Bay Suite, Grace Bay, Providenciales. Tel: 431-2871

INTERIOR SUPERVISOR • Responsible for supervising building projects and interior finishing team; • Ensure a consistently high standard of work is produced in accordance with specification of drawings and quality standards through regular quality inspections with sub-contractors and site manager; • Supervise day-to-day operations of sub-contractors/company team to ensure operational procedures are adhered to and projects are on schedule; • Issue material requisitions in adequate time to achieve construction work schedule; • Schedule, control/monitor all interior finishing projects and materials weekly; • Prepare material list for each job based on drawings; measure work completed by subcontractors to ensure that they are ONLY paid for works completed; • Record staff hours and prepare time-sheets for payroll. Position requires working 44hrs weekly plus some holidays and weekends Wages: $25 per hour This position is being advertised for a work permit renewal. Qualified Belongers are encouraged to deliver resume to the Labor Department, Providenciales and Horizon Construction office. Or by emailing: hello@thekforce.com

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

24688

March 23-29, 2021

BLUE HILLS GLASS

BEEN MEP CO. LTD.

WILSON CL, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Unit 54, Saltmills Plaza, Provo. Tel: 649 331 0732 Positions available for

MAINTENANCE MEN Must be able to carry out general repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Must have at least 5 years experience in maintenance on large homes and commercial projects. Must be willing to work weekend and Public Holidays. Remuneration will commence at $10.00 per hour depending on level of experience.

Please email resume to beenmep@tciway.tc This ad is for work permit renewal application and also any local/belonger qualified applicants as several positions are available

24690

GLASSMAN

- $6.25 hourly Installing glass in windows etc.

GLASS CUTTER - $7 hourly Cutting glass.

CONTACT: 2427012/347-9199

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently holds these positions

24671

CUTTING EDGE LANDSCAPING AND DESIGNS

CLUB PILLOWS

CHARLIE’S DEPOT

GARDENER

1 BARMAID

COSMETICS MANAGER

Must have at least 3 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Duty includes Selling and Serving of Drinks to customer and keeping work station clean. Salary starts at $6.50 per hour.

756 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

Soil cultivation, digging, and forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 333-2621

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24714

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Grace Bay. Seeks

CONTACT 941-4034 IF INTERESTED.

All Belonger are encouraged to submit copy of their resume to Labor. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24699

Industrial Drive, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a -$7.50 hourly

GENERAL MERCHANDISE MANAGER - $7.50 hourly

• Must have passion to grow sales along with exceptional customer service and communication skills. • Advanced knowledge in computer systems especially QB, POS and Microsoft Excel. • Develop strategies to improve customer service, drive sales and increase profitability.

BLUE PARROT

Unit #1 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Cleaning office complex. • Work hours are Mon-Fri, weekends when call. • 8am-5pm. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 649-946-4344 ALL RESUMES SHOULD BE SENT VIA EMAIL: INFO@DEMPSEYANDCOMPANY

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24705

SALOMON SHOP

FIVE CAYS ROAD, FIVE CAYS PROVIDENCIALES Seeks to employ

LABOURER Salary is $6.25 per hour. Hours of work is 8 hrs. per day and 5 days per week. Duties include; washing windows, keep yard clean, dispose of trash, clean in and outside of the shop.

PLEASE CONTACT 333-7889 REGARDING EMPLOYMENT. TCI BELONGERS CAN ALSO DROP THEIR RESUMES TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT, PROVIDENCIALES. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

24679

CHANCES GAMING BLUE HILLS RD, PROVO Is seeking to employ a

DOORMAN

• Applicant must be respectful to all clients, honest and willing to work. • Making sure all clients are sanitized and wearing the right apparel before entering the game room. Salary: $6.50 hourly CONTACT: 242-1818

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24703

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

CONTACT: 241-7968

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24713

HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is seeking to employ a

ASPHALT HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

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 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 ................................................................................................... Witnessed .............................................................................................. 24599

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 POSITION TYPE • Full-Time

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

24597

34 CLASSIFIEDS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GRACE BAY PHARMACY Box 1276, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Community/Retail Pharmacy located on the Island of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking 3 fulltime pharmacists. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: 1. Dispensing prescription medication, checking dosage, giving advice and instruction on the usage of over-the-counter medicines and medical appliances. 2. Patient counseling on health matters especially relating to managing hypertensive and diabetic patients. 3. Liaising with doctors about prescriptions and new medication 4. Managing, supervising and training pharmacy support staff. SKILLS REQUIRED: 1. A minimum of three years experience within the Retail Pharmacy business will be an asset. 2. Certification from a reputable institution as well as proof of current pharmacist registration. 3. Good communication skills, and keen attention to details 4. Proficient in the English Language however a second language (Spanish or French Creole) will be an asset. 5. Knowledge of the Kroll pharmacy computer program or similar 6. Must be willing to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends in rotation. Ad is for permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary ranges from $36,000.00 to $42,000.00.

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN REQUIRED KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: 1. Assist pharmacist in labeling and filling prescriptions as well as enter prescriptions into the computer 2. Assist patients in dropping off and picking up prescriptions 3. Compound oral solutions, ointments, and creams under Pharmacist supervision 4. Medication ordering 5. Work with insurance carriers to obtain payments and refilling authority SKILLS REQUIRED: 1. Previous experience working as a Pharmacy Technician 2. Certification from a reputable institution as well as proof of current Pharmacy Technician license. 3. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. 4. Understanding of medical terminology and calculations 5. Proficient in the English Language however a second language (Spanish or French Creole) will be an asset. 6. Must be willing to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends in rotation. Ad is for permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary ranges from $22,800.00 to $25,200.00.

DOMESTIC WORKER • Needed for retail business. • Must be willing to work • Weekends and Holidays Ad is for work permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary $7.00 per hour

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

TRAVELERS WEST BUILDING, AIRPORT ROAD Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

STORE HELPER

PHARMACIST NEEDED

All applicants should apply to the Managing Director, Grace Bay Pharmacy, Box 1276, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or email jobs@gracebaypharmacy.com.

PATRICK E. HARVEY

PATIENCE HAIR BOUTIQUE

Clean the store, dusting, sweeping, mopping, restroom cleaning, stock shelves, pick, pack, receive and restock products inside the store. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 344-3964

CONTACT: 247-0097

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 A work permit holder currently holds this position 24702

24711

R&B COMPUTER #6 SOUTH SIDE PLAZA, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN

• Repairing cell phones, computers and TV’s. • Applicant must be honest, reliable and hardworking. Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 231-0327

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24681

SOMEWHERE CAFE AND LOUNGE IS HIRING

LINE COOKS

- 1 year experience required, able to handle high volume, cook food effectively according to orders, works well in a team environment and speak English. $8-$10 based on experience.

DISHWASHERS

– no experience required, able to handle high volume and maintain a clean station, works well in team environment and speak English. $6.25/hr.

PREP COOKS

– experience preferred, demonstrate some knife skills, able to handle high volume, works well with others and speaks English. $6.25-$8 based on experience. Turks Islanders only with proof of status APPLY IN PERSON WITH CV AT:

SOMEWHERE CAFE AND LOUNGE CORAL GARDENS RESORT

FRANKLYN VIRGIL East Suburbs, 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: 241-2238

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24694

24789

GERTRUDE GRANT

SOBEIDA V. GIL VERAS

DOMESTIC WORKER

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

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: 241-3471

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24697

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

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: 343-1691

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24696

DOCUWIN ACTING ON BEHALF OF

24687

Millennium Highway- Providenciales, is seeking to employ an

BAPTIST CHURCH OF BEREA

BEHALF OF BARBOS Located at the Somerset Resort - Grace Bay, is seeking to employ a

"EVANGELIST"

"COOK"

- Community Outreach - Support Witnessing Teams & Workshops - Plan Revivals Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: #242-1197 / 232-7077

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour board

- cook food to order following a specific menu - Extensive experience of preparation, cooking and serving of restaurant food - Familiarity with guest service, food handling and storage procedures and sanitation practices Salary : $14.00 hourly

CONTACT: #332-3250

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resumes to the Labour Board. These positions are for first time applicants

24726

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

RACQUEL LEVY

Leeward Hgwy, The Bight 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: 341-0355

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position

24676

ELVA WILLIAMS

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Seeking to employ a

LABOURER

DUTIES: To clean premises, remove debris and dispose of same and keep all surrounding areas. SALARY: $6.50 per hour

RAYCAL HANDFIELD

269 GOLD AVE., MILLENNIUM HEIGHTS 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: 331-7641

SHERON STURRUP LIGHTHOUSE ROAD GRAND TURK

DOMESTIC WORKER GENERAL DOMESTIC CLEANING, TIDYING MOPPING FLOORS, OTHER SURFACE DUSTING, POLISHING FURNITURE CLEANING BATHROOMS, TOILETS, KITCHEN, LIVING ROOM AND BEDROOMS LAUNDERING SHEETS, TOWELS, PERSONAL CLOTHING AND IRONING TO WORK 3 DAYS PER WEEK SALARY: $6:25 PER HOUR

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24704

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24686

BRIDGETTE MISSICK

AUSTIN DICKENSON

LABOURER

South Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Duties: To clean property, to trim Trees, remove all debris and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 243-9642

CONTACT: 243-0313

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Duties: To clean vehicles at a car wash, remove all debris clients vehicles and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-1549

CONTACT: 231-4657

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder. 24691

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder. 24698

WET MONEY ENTERPRISES

WENDAL JOSEPH

CALEB SIMMONS

East Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To clean property, to trim Trees, remove all debris and to Assist clients with water sports equipment and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 331-3449

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder. 24693

M.P. & FASHION STORE

OVER BACK Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

STORE CLERK

Duties: Greet customers Receive payments by cash, Credit cards and cheques, Issue receipts and change. Due to customers. Check And balance cash at the end of the day. SALARY: $7.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 347-8185

Belongers are encouraged To send copy of their resume to The Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a Work permit holder.

24504

TURTLE CREEK DR, DISCOVERY BAY Is seeking to employ a

of North Backsalina Grand Turk, is seeking to employ a

MASON - $300 WEEKLY

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

CARPENTER - $300 WEEKLY

Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials. CONTACT: 333-8687 EMAIL: TCIUNIQUE@GMAIL.COM

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24678

DOMESTIC WORKER

to work 6 days a week at $6.50 an hour. THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY FILLED BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. PERSONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPIES RESUMES TO THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND CALL 649-347-9209 24723

KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY

Osbourne road, back Salina grand Turk

PHOTOGRAPHER DUTIES WILL INCLUDE: • Weddings • Portraits • Real estate • Underwater • Video production • Office work and editing • Client Sales REQUIREMENTS AS FOLLOWS: • College Degree • 5 years experience in wedding

and underwater photography in the Turks and Caicos • Competent in Photoshop, light room, Final Cut. • Competent UW photographer with own underwater photo equipment and lighting • Dive master certified • Work Long hours and weekends • Own Pro Level Camera and Various lenses • Own Car Salary plus commission

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL HOWEVER BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 232-2447 PLEASE SEND YOUR CV TO INFO@KAIERI.COM 24727

SIBONNE HOTEL

#2 The Bight, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

• Perform a wide variety of general building maintenance repairs and services • Repair appliances, pumps, and maintenance and landscaping equipment. • Repair faucets, toilets, showers, seals, and any other malfunctioning plumbing fixtures Salary: $9 hourly

CONTACT: 649-946-5547

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24706

ANDY LIGHTBOURNE

South Suburbs, 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: 244-4724

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24695

SMITHCO

HEMINGWAYS'S RESTAURANT

PUMP ATTENDANT

DISHWASHER, KITCHEN HELPER, SERVER/ BEACH SERVER (2)

CONTACT: 231-0984 EMAIL SMITHCOTCI@GMAIL.COM Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds the position. 24716

POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS. SUITABLE BELONGERS MAY APPLY WITH LABOUR DEPARTMENT 24708

ANA GODET

TROPICAL BAR

#84 INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD, FIVE CAYS Is seeking a

To fuel up customer tank and storage tank, clean and maintain the work area, stock shelves and freezers. Salary: $7 hourly

Osborne Road, 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: 242-1910

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position. Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24692

THE SANDS, GRACE BAY, PROVIDENCIALES Telephone:941-8408

Salary $6.25 - $8.00 per hour. Serve guest/ customers, take orders, wash dishes, stack dishes, offload incoming supplies, General cleaning of restaurant etc.

Front Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER Stocking and

supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-0426

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24677

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES! The Financial Services Commission (FSC), the regulator of financial services business in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking suitably qualified applicants to fill several vacancies. APPLICATION DEADLINE 6 APRIL 2021

SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Department: Information Technology Location: Grand Turk Annual Salary: $51,604 - $63,007 JOB SUMMARY The holder of this position reports directly to the Director of Information Technology. The Systems Engineer is responsible for planning and designing Windows based infrastructure, virtualization environments and storage networks across the infrastructure. This includes recommendation, configuration, installation, support and deployment of all server, storage and backup/archive technology including operating systems and management tools and associated software applications supported by the IT Department. This position is currently held by work permit holder. Details on the above vacancies can be found on the Commission’s website at https://tcifsc.tc/vacancies/ or by contacting the Commission at telephone numbers 649-946-2550 ext. 4021 or 4048. Applications should be emailed to administration@tcifsc.tc no later than 6 April 2021. A copy of the application should be submitted to the Employment Services Department by emailing to CHbacchus@gov.tc and MCadams@gov. tc. Applications received after the application deadline may not be considered in this recruitment phase but may be placed on file for future reference. While we appreciate your response, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

24709

36 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Wymara Resort and Villas is a contemporary luxury full-service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

*EXECUTIVE CHEF

Lead and ensure food is executed accurately, safely, and tastily. The position ensures the culinary and food/beverage operation meets the brand’s target customer needs, ensures customer satisfaction, focuses on growing revenues, and maximizes the financial performance of the department. This individual manages the kitchen operations by training kitchen personnel and supervise/coordinate all related culinary and food/beverage activities; estimate food consumption and requisition or purchase food; select and develop recipes; standardize production recipes to ensure consistent quality; establish presentation technique and quality standards; plan and price menus; ensure proper equipment operation/maintenance; and ensure proper safety and sanitation in the kitchen. Previous experience with control food and labor cost, demonstration cooking, menu development, and pricing and development of culinary team preferred. The ideal candidates will possess a bachelor's degree or related culinary degree with eight or more years of industry and culinary management experience. Caribbean experience an asset. Salary Range: $70k$ 80k

*FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Oversees daily operations of the restaurant. Directs the activities of restaurant service personnel, Bartenders, Beverage Attendants, Host/Hostess. Resolve customer complaints regarding food service. Train workers in food preparation, and in service, sanitation, and safety procedures. Observe and evaluate workers and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service. Assign duties, responsibilities, and workstations to employees in accordance with work requirements. Previous experience working in a multicultural 5 Star property. Extensive wine knowledge. Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software, Opera, Micros POS, Open Table, Timeclock,). Must be fluent in English, Compensation: $25k - $35k per annum

*CHEF DE PARTIE

The Chef de Partie is a direct link between the Executive Chef, Executive Sous Chef, sous chef and his/her assigned production areas and outlets. His primary responsibilities are to ensure all communication, standards, policies, and expectations are communicated to his/her team and then executed flawlessly. The Chef de Partie enables his/her team by ensuring equipment and sanitation standards are always met, supplies and inventories are readily available, expectations are communicated, recipes are current, and training is on-going. He or She is expected to be a “hands-on” supervisor who leads his/her team by example. The Chef de Partie is assigned to be directly responsible for one or more outlets or production areas in the following categories: production, alternative restaurants, buffets, or main galley. The Chef de Partie should expect to be rotated into different areas with or without advance notice in regards business demands and career development. Compensation: $20k - $25k per annum

*SERVER/TEAM LEADER

Ensure the highest levels of professionalism are maintained in providing our customers consistent service quality. Ensure the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of Stelle Restaurant and Stelle Bar and Zest Restaurant. Perform major tasks that affect the overall operation of the restaurant. High energy leader with 2 years’ experience in leading a successful fine dining a la carte restaurant, preferably in hotel environment. 5 years’ experience in the food and beverage, culinary and event. Must be computer literate: Must be proficient in Mircos and Microsoft Suite and 5 Years’ experience in food and beverage, culinary and event. Compensation: $6.70 per hour.

*ROOM ATTENDANT

Report directly to the Assist Director of Housekeeping. Responsible for the overall cleanliness of assigned rooms/suites and provide a pleasant, comfortable experience for guest. Report’s maintenance deficiencies in order to maintain rooms/suites in compliance with standards. Compensation: $6.25 per hour

*WAITRESS/SERVERS

Provide guests with food and beverage service – restaurant, bar, room service, beach & pool. Able to work on feet all day, good math skill, experience in fine dining service an asset. Compensation starts at $6.25 per hour.

*DOMESTIC WORKER

Report directly to the Assist Director of Housekeeping. To clean and maintain all public areas (i.e. hotel lobby, restrooms) in impeccable condition in accordance Conrad Miami standards and they promote a positive image of the property to guests for a better hotel rating score. Compensation: $6.25 per hour.

*OPERATIONS MANAGER

Operations Manager is responsible for directing, planning, organizing and developing of the overall operation of the Wymara Resort and Villas, to ensure exceptional levels of guest service and satisfaction with cleanliness and comfort of guest facilities. Maintain outstanding relationships with all Owners and leaders of the resort. Be fully versed on Forbes Service Standards and ensure all these are communicated to all employees. THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE/ BE; • Coordinate and manage the day-to-day operations • Ensure all Wymara Resort and Villas Policies and Procedures are developed and implemented • Discuss and explain all rules and regulations as well as rights and obligations for relevant Ownership structure • Discuss and explain budget for all relevant entities • Conduct weekly operations meetings with key stakeholders to discuss operational challenges, opportunities and to improve or maintain an excellent communication flow • Monitor and review the daily labor report and the monthly profit and loss statement, analyze results and initiate improvements

• Manage all third-party contracts. • Manage and attend Owner/Board/Committee Meetings • Ensure the facilities are well maintained with respect to Housekeeping and Engineering • Oversee preventive maintenance and deep cleaning programs • Respond appropriately in the event of any emergency or safety situation and comply with all local codes and ordinances with a focus on resident and employee safety. • Personally, meet and interact with owners, review all written owner comments and follow up on any owner service issues or needs • Lead with intellectual and emotional maturity, demonstrating a personal philosophy of life and work habits, practicing consulting supervision and observing ethical business practices. • Ability to develop, with the aid of key personnel, strategies and programs to ensure attainment of the Resort and Villa goals and objectives. • Maintain a solid working relationship with the Resort and Villa owners • Display at all times a friendly, courteous and professional manner in dealing with owners, guests and other employees Required Skills: • Ability to perform a myriad of duties with extreme care and attention to detail, while working in a fastpaced and busy environment. • Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Opera PMS and Knowcross. • Working knowledge of chemicals, fabric care, carpet care, floor and stone care. • Knowledge of Food and Beverage Operations • Knowledge of Laundry operations, textiles, fabric care, equipment and housekeeping techniques. • Strong leadership qualities, sound judgment, superior decision-making and problem-solving skills. • Ability to read and interpret business records and statistical reports. • Ability to use mathematical skills to interpret financial information and prepare budgets. • Effective listening abilities. • Excellent customer service skills. • Have interpersonal skills to deal effectively with all business contacts. • Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays. • Able to effectively communicate in English, in both written and oral forms. • Knowledge of a second language is preferred • Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a major hotel/resort complex with a Forbes Five Star Rating & AAA – 5 Diamond Rating • Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a large Housekeeping department of an internationally recognized luxury hotel brand • Pre-opening Experience with proven ability to successfully lead, train motivate, develop staff and processes implementation is essential • University Bachelor's Degree, Tourism and Hospitality Management preferred, or equivalent experience 5-10 years of property operations management. • Caribbean experience an asset. Salary Range: $40k-$ 50k

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to Hr@wymararesortandvillas.com

24707

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY

M.P. & FASHION STORE

OVER BACK Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

STORE CLERK

Duties: Greet customers Receive payments by cash, Credit cards and cheques, Issue receipts and change. Due to customers. Check And balance cash at the end of the day. SALARY: $7.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 347-8185

Belongers are encouraged To send copy of their resume to The Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a Work permit holder.

24504

J&JF CONSTRUCTION

GK FOODS

• To work 6 days a week, hours of employment are flexible $ 7.00 per hour • Must have Bachelor’s Degree • Minimum 6 years of prior related Supermarket work experience is must • Duties: To install and maintain electrical works

7A Martha Yard, The Bight Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC (2)

To work 6 days a week, hours of employment are flexible $ 7.00 per hour Minimum 10 years of experience in industrial refrigeration equipment installation/maintenance etc., Duties: Trouble shoot, maintenance of all the mechanical equipment.

Interested applicants should send their resume to:

gksupermarkettci@gmail.com

KST WATERSPORTS #31 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

FIRST MATE

24720

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 341-2830

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24727

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24725

BOAT CAPTAIN

CONTACT: 432-6611 EMAIL: PPMLTCI@GMAIL.COM

CLEANER

CONTACT: 348-7523

LABOURER

CONTACT: 341-9801

Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site. Salary: $10 hourly

UFLY PARASAILING

• operate various ship systems, and direct the deck crew • Responsible for cargo or passengers. • Responsible for navigation and safety. Salary: $550 weekly

TCI AUTO PARTS & CAR DEALER

LABOURER

PPML

Parker Ave, Phase 1, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

• To assist construction and maintenance company with general labour. • Knowledge and proficiency of power tools. • Experience in a general aspects of basic trades, to be knowledgeable and helpful. Salary: $7.50 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24724

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL HOWEVER BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 232-2447 PLEASE SEND YOUR CV TO INFO@KAIERI.COM 24727

1125 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI Looking to fill up following positions

ELECTRICIAN (2)

TCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

Osbourne road, back Salina grand Turk

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24722

Walkin Marine, Long Bay Is seeking to employ a

Responsible for the safe operation of vessel and ensure that it is operated and crewed according to both company and legal guidelines. Salary: $10 hourly.

CONTACT: 341-2773

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24721

ST THOMAS PARISH GRAND TURK

SEXTON

St Thomas Parish is looking for a Sexton at Grand Turk, TCI area. DUTIES INCLUDES: • Opening, closing and preparing churches and the Dillon Hall for services and activities • Cleaning inside

buildings and yard • Painting, tending plants, and weeding St Thomas churchyard etc ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: • Must be 21+ years old Salary: $6.50 per hour

Submit Resumes to: St Thomas Parish, Grand Turk. Fax number: (649) 946-1301 or Telephone: (649) 232-2402 (Parish Priest) Current Position held by Work Permit Holder Please submit copy of application to Labour Department, Grand Turk 24718

872 Business Solutions Building, P.O. Box 203, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-1900. Fax: (649) 946-1119

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEER SALARY RANGE: USD 50,000 – USD 60,000

CORE FUNCTION

Under the general direction of the Director of Technology – provide support to the Telecommunications Commission in technical regulation of the telecommunications sector.

POSITION OVERVIEW

A person that is well-rounded in radio communications and Information Technology (IT) systems. Have experience developing, implementing, and maintaining a variety of communications networks to National and International standards. The candidate must be familiar with the TCI Telecommunications Ordinance, ITU-R Recommendations, and other regional and international body’s recommendations as it pertains to telecommunication regulation. Excellent oral and writing skills are essential, and the individual must be able to work in teams and train others.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provide Support to the Director of Technology • Ensure that all communicating entities are radiating on their prescribed frequencies in accordance with the TCI Telecommunications Commission Ordinance and Regulations. • Responsible for undertaking technical evaluations for all license applications. • Responsible for testing and verification, approval of installers, Marking, and Registering of apparatus, equipment, and systems. • Perform Quality of Service measurement on the Telco’s and other Radio Systems. • Develop expertise to train staff on new technologies. • Responsible for the administration and maintenance of the office computer systems and network.

REQUIREMENTS

• B.Sc. in Engineering, Telecommunications, or Computer Science degree. • M.Sc. in related discipline and/or a professional certification is a plus. • Candidate shall be a mature, qualified engineer with a minimum of 3 years telecommunications and radio communication experience. • Highly competent, self motivated, self-managed. • Able to carry out the responsibilities in the administration & monitoring of spectrum. • Proficient in the use of spectrum analyzers, Electromagnetic Field (EMF) testers, frequency counters, network analyzers, Power Meters, and other testing equipment. • Experienced with databases, network (LAN, WAN) and patch management. • Knowledge of system security (e.g., Intrusion detection systems) and data backup/recovery • Knowledge of the information communication technology industry would be an asset. • Applicants must not have a direct or indirect involvement in any local communications company.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE Submit your resumes with a cover letter and two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer). Copies of your qualifications and a copy of the passport photo page. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a Police Certificate that is issued no longer than six months from the date of submission. Applications should be addressed to The Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Islands Telecommunications Commission at jobs@tcitelecommission.tc under the subject matter Application – Telecommunications Engineer Turks and Caicos Islander need only apply, and applications without all supporting documents will not be processed. We thank interested persons for their application, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted. APPLICATION EXTENSION: MARCH 31st, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

March 23-29, 2021

Covid vaccine: US trial of AstraZeneca jab confirms safety RESULTS from the long-awaited US trial of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine are out and confirm that the shot is both safe and highly effective. More than 32,000 volunteers took part, mostly in America, but also in Chile and Peru. The vaccine was 79% effective at stopping symptomatic Covid disease and 100% effective at preventing people from falling seriously ill. And there were no safety issues regarding blood clots. That should further reassure some EU countries that recently paused rollout of the vaccine amid concerns about a possible link. Some are already starting to use it again now that Europe’s medicines regulator has completed its review and has also concluded the vaccine is safe and effective. Data from this new trial - run by experts at Columbia University and the University of Rochester in collaboration with AstraZeneca may also prove useful in reassuring people about how well the vaccine works to protect the elderly against Covid-19 illness. Several countries initially would not authorise the use of the vaccine in adults over 65, citing lack of evidence. Around a fifth of the volunteers in this trial were over 65 and the vaccine - given as two doses, four weeks apart - provided as much protection to them as to younger age groups.

Lava at Fagradalsfjall burst through a crack in the Earth’s crust hundreds of metres long and a series of small fountains turned the night sky red.

The vaccine was 79% effective at stopping symptomatic Covid disease and 100% effective at preventing people from falling seriously ill.

Hundreds of thousands of people in the UK are already receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine every day, so these numbers are tiny by comparison. But the results are vital for the US and should clear the way for the vaccine to be approved by regulators there within the next month or two. Lead investigator of the Oxford University trial of the vaccine, Prof Andrew Pollard said: “’These results are great news as they show the remarkable efficacy of the vaccine in a new population and are consistent with the results from Oxford-led trials. “We can expect strong impact against Covid-19 across all ages and for people of all different

backgrounds from widespread use of the vaccine.” Prof Sarah Gilbert, co-designer of the vaccine, said: “In many different countries and across age groups, the vaccine is providing a high level of protection against Covid-19 and we hope this will lead to even more widespread use of the vaccine in the global attempts to bring the pandemic to an end.” Prof Gilbert said there were always cases of people falling ill after receiving a vaccine, particularly when very large numbers of were receiving a jab, but that did not mean that the vaccine was responsible for the problems. Meanwhile thousands of people a day were now dying across Europe from Covid-19.

Iceland volcano: Lava-spewing Fagradalsfjall ‘subsiding’ A VOLCANO which erupted on Friday night near Iceland’s capital Reykjavik seems to be subsiding, scientists say. Lava at Fagradalsfjall burst through a crack in the Earth’s crust hundreds of metres long and a series of small fountains turned the night sky red. Icelanders had been bracing themselves for an eruption for several weeks, after the island nation recorded more than 50,000 recent earthquakes. Meteorologists said the eruption was small and no-one was in danger. The last eruption there was some 800 years ago. In 2010, the eruption of another volcano, Eyjafjallajokull, brought air traffic to a halt across Europe. However, the eruption of Fagradalsfjall has not spewed out much ash, so no major disruption is

expected. The biggest threat was pollution from the gases that had been released, and nearby residents were asked to keep their windows shut. But the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) said in a report on Saturday that the pollution was likely to have little effect on the health and well-being of the area’s inhabitants. Officials quoted by AFP news agency said that the area of the eruption was open to the public, but could only be accessed by a difficult hike of several hours from the nearest road. There is also a potential danger from sulphur dioxide gas. “Currently gas pollution is not expected to cause much discomfort for people except close up to the source of the eruption. The gas emissions will be monitored closely,” the IMO said.

Lightning may have sparked life on Earth MILLIONS of lightning strikes may have been just what life needed to begin on Earth, according to a new study. One of the key ingredients needed for life as we know it is phosphorus -- and the multitude of lightning strikes that happened when Earth was young 4 billion years ago may have unlocked the necessary amount of phosphorus to create the foundation for life. Phosphorus is needed in the molecules that form basic cell structures and cell membranes and even makes up the phosphate backbone of DNA and RNA, said Benjamin Hess, study author and graduate student at Yale University in The Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences. But this element was elusive on early Earth, trapped inside minerals. “Most phosphorus on early Earth was trapped in minerals that are essentially insoluble and unreactive, meaning they couldn’t be used to make biomolecules needed for life,”

Hess said. “Lightning strikes provide a new mechanism for creating phosphorus in a form that can make important compounds for life.” The study was published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications. It has long been thought that meteorites delivered the necessary elements for life to appear on Earth. Meteorites have been known to contain schreibersite, a phosphorus mineral that can be dissolved in water. If enough of them crashed into Earth, that schreibersite could have provided the right amount of phosphorus. However, life began between 3.5 to 4.5 billion years ago, and that’s when fewer meteorites were impacting Earth. Schreibersite has another source in glasses called fulgurite, otherwise known as the glass that forms when lightning strikes the ground. Fulgurite has been found to contain phosphorus released from surface rocks -- and it’s soluble.

This artist’s rendition of the early Earth environment shows lightning striking volcanic rocks, releasing phosphorus.

“Lightning is a mechanism that does not necessarily diminish through time as the commonly accepted source, meteorites, do,” Hess added. “This mechanism may be very important for considering the formation of life on Earth-like planets after meteorite impacts have become rare.”

Lightning has also been a subject of interest for scientists when thinking about life on early Earth, because it leads to the creation of gases like nitrogen oxides, which also played a part in the origin of life. Hess and his fellow researchers used this existing research to investigate and refine the rate of

lightning on early Earth. On Earth today, we experience about 560 million lightning flashes per year. On early Earth, that number was anywhere between 1 and 5 billion annually, with 100 million to 1 billion of those striking the ground. Over a billion years, that could have led to 1 quintillion lightning strikes -- and a lot of phosphorus. Lightning was more prevalent on early Earth because there was more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide contributes to the global temperature, and a higher global temperature causes more frequent and intense thunderstorms, Hess said. Carbon dioxide levels were elevated on early Earth after a Marssize object slammed into Earth to create the moon 4.5 billion years ago. This also released a lot of gases from inside Earth, like carbon dioxide -- which then became trapped in Earth’s atmosphere and led to more lightning, Hess said.

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Plant-based diet can lower your stroke risk, new study says IF YOU’RE looking to reduce stroke risk, as well as improve overall cardiovascular health, a recent study in the journal Neurology suggests you stock up on plant-based foods. Researchers looked at health data from over 200,000 men and women in two large-scale studies that covered more than 25 years of diet questionnaires, as well as health changes over time. They found that participants who reported regular consumption of healthy, plant-based foods had a significantly lower risk of experiencing a stroke. Plant-based diets are heavy on choices such as dark leafy greens— including kale, chard, and spinach— as well as whole grains and beans, says study co-author Megu Baden, PhD, in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Those following this

type of diet tend to avoid foods made with refined grains, added sugars, and potatoes. The benefit of these foods have been highlighted in other studies showing reduced risk of diabetes, some cancers, and cardiovascular disease, but this is one of the first to link this kind of diet to stroke prevention, Baden says. “We found that those following this diet had 10% lower stroke risk,” she notes. “This was especially true when we take the quality of food into consideration.” For example, the study also included vegetarians, but there was no association between that type of eating and lower stroke risk. Most likely, that’s because a vegetarian diet doesn’t automatically mean you’re eating healthy foods, Baden says. You can be a vegetarian and

be putting your health at risk with highly processed food and plenty of added sugars. When considering a pivot toward a plant-based eating style for getting cardiovascular benefits, one worth noting is the Mediterranean diet, which is abundant in quality plant sources, as well as fish and olive oil. A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that this type of diet is beneficial for lowering the risk of ischemic stroke and heart disease. Even a single step like lowering consumption of ultra-processed foods can help, suggests dietitian Kara Hoerr, RDN, because those can be replaced by better choices. “It’s important to find a balance,” she says. “Fruits and vegetables are great, but so are protein-based foods, whole grains, and healthy fats.” (Eatthis.com)

Plant-based diets are heavy on choices such as dark leafy greens—including kale, chard, and spinach—as well as whole grains and beans.

Space debris removal demonstration launched A SOYUZ rocket has launched from the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to put 38 different satellites in orbit. Among the payloads was a 500kg Earth imager developed by the South Korean space agency; and a pair of spacecraft from the Tokyoheadquartered Astroscale company which will give a demonstration of how to clean up orbital debris. Astroscale’s showcase will be run from an operations centre in the UK. The Soyuz flight lasted nearly five hours following a 06:07 GMT liftoff. The long duration was a consequence of having to put so many different satellites in three different orbits roughly 500km to 550km above the Earth. A lot of interest ahead of launch had focussed on the Astroscale mission. With the space environment becoming increasingly cluttered, there is heightened awareness that something needs to be done to sweep away spaceflight’s legacy of discarded hardware. This debris - of which there is roughly 9,000 tonnes up there - is a potential collision risk to the operational systems that deliver much-needed services, such as weather forecasting and telecommunications. Astroscale launched what it calls Elsa-D (End-of-Life Service by Astroscale demonstration). The demonstration mission consists of two spacecraft: a 175kg “servicer” and a 17kg “client”. On the Soyuz, the duo were connected, but in the coming weeks

A wet morning launch for the Soyuz at Baikonur

they will be commanded to separate to begin a repeating game of cat and mouse. The servicer will use its sensors to find and chase down the client, latching on to it using a magnetic docking plate, before then releasing “the mouse” for another capture experiment. The task will become increasingly complex, with the most difficult rendezvous requiring the servicer to grab the client as it’s tumbling. Ultimately, the pair will be commanded to come out of orbit to burn up in the atmosphere. “The mission simulates a scenario

where we would rendezvous with, and dock with, and capture a piece of debris that is free-floating in space,” explained Astroscale chief technical officer Mike Lindsay. “We would then lower the debris, such that it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere and stays out of the way of other spacecraft and operations,” he told BBC News. There is a burgeoning waste problem in the volume of space just above the Earth - a few hundred to a few thousand km in altitude. The accumulated junk ranges in nature from big rocket segments through to tiny shards of metal that

have been created in accidental explosions and collisions. All move with high velocity and are therefore capable of destroying, or at least badly damaging an active satellite, of which there are currently over 3,000. Precise tracking is possible on debris objects larger than 10cm. There are about 30,000 of these in the catalogue, but there may be one million items out there nearer to 1cm in size that are extremely difficult to monitor. Spacecraft owners are asked to adhere to guidelines that would see all their retired missions brought out of the sky within 25 years of the end

of operations. But compliance is poor, and experts agree we now need to start fetching the bigger pieces of junk and brining them down - if we want nearEarth orbits to remain useable. Astroscale wants to offer this as a commercial service. “In the same way that you call up a breakdown service when your car breaks down on the motorway, the idea is that we can do the exact same thing for space - a space sweeping service which can clean up as we go,” said Harriet Brettle, the head of business analysis at Astroscale. On the design board for future commercial missions is an Elsa-M mission, where the M stands for “multi-client’. In this scenario, the servicer would capture in turn three clients and pull them down into lower orbits where they could more easily re-enter the atmosphere and burn up. The client spacecraft, or mouse, for this Astroscale demo was manufactured by Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL) of Guildford. Two other British-made satellites joined the ride to orbit, both manufactured by Open Cosmos on the Harwell science campus in Oxfordshire - the same location as for Astroscale’s mission operations centre. One of the Open Cosmos platforms is to be used by Lacuna Space, again based at the Harwell Hub. Lacuna is developing an “Internet of Things” (IoT) constellation of small satellites that can link dispersed connected objects on the ground everything from shipping containers to migrating animals. (BBC)

Sports Interational

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The Belize squad travelled to Haiti for a World Cup qualifier scheduled for Thursday. Chemicals giant Ineos runs the cycling team Ineos Grenadiers featuring Chris Froome.

Sport urged to drop high carbon sponsorship deals SPORTS teams and competitions have been urged to drop sponsorship deals from companies that promote “high carbon lifestyles, products and services”. A new report called “Sweat Not Oil” says the deals damage progress in efforts to tackle global warming. It says there are more than 250 sponsor agreements worldwide between sports groups and high carbon industries. “Sport floats on a sea of sponsorship deals with the major polluters,” report co-author Andrew Simms said. “It makes the crisis worse by normalising high-carbon, polluting lifestyles, and reducing the pressure for climate action.” The report is published by the New Weather Institute think tank,

climate charity Possible and the Rapid Transition Alliance. Thirteen sports were examined, with football found to have the most deals - 57 in total worldwide - from kit sponsors to stadium naming rights being sold to oil and gas companies, as well as airlines and motoring firms. Their research will be presented to governing bodies as well as the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Etienne Stott, London 2012 Olympic champion canoeist said: “Sport has a unique power to connect and inspire people. I would like to see it use its voice to promote the idea of care and stewardship of our planetary resources.” The study also highlights the public health effects of the pollution which comes from burning fossil

fuels and compares that with tobacco, which was banned from sports advertising in the UK in 2003. Simms added: “Major polluters have become the ‘new tobacco’ of sports sponsorship. “An estimated 8.7 million people are killed by air pollution from the burning of fossil fuels each year, more than the 8.2 million killed by smoking. “Tobacco advertising was ended to protect people’s health. Now it’s time for sport to show end sponsorship from major polluters for the health of people and the planet.” The report highlights global chemical company Ineos and its sponsorship of the cycling team Ineos Grenadiers and Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup sailing team Ineos Team UK.

Belize football team bus held up by armed gang in Haiti THE Belize Football Federation has expressed its “disappointment and disgust” after a bus taking the national team to their hotel in Haiti was held up by an armed gang. The incident occurred on Monday shortly after the squad had arrived in the country for a 2022 World Cup qualifier. Police escorting the team were forced to negotiate with the gang to allow the bus to proceed to the hotel. Captain Deon McCauley described the incident as “a moment of intense fear”. “I am happy everyone is safe and I commend you guys for being brave,” he added. “Let’s continue to stick together and please make the best decisions when it comes to the team.” An image posted on the Federation’s (FFB) Facebook page showed the gang on motorbikes, wearing masks and carrying weapons. In a statement, the FFB said: “The Football Federation of Belize

takes this time to express its disappointment and disgust at an unfortunate incident faced by the Jaguars as the team was headed from the airport to the hotel in Haiti. “Despite the four-man police escort, the team bus was stopped by an uproar of insurgents with assault rifles on motorcycles and police escorts were forced to negotiate with them for the team bus to continue its journey to the hotel. “We are pleased to report that our Jaguars, although shaken by the terrible experience, are safely at their hotel.” The FFB added the safety of the team was its “top priority” and had contacted Fifa and the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) over moving them to a safer environment. The team is scheduled to play Haiti in their opening World Cup qualifier in Port-au-Prince on Thursday. (BBC)

Brooklyn Nets NBA title favourites at some sportsbooks after injury to James LEBRON James’ injury and an impressive stretch by the Brooklyn Nets without Kevin Durant have upended the NBA betting market. The Nets have surpassed the Los Angeles Lakers at multiple sportsbooks and are now the consensus favorites to win the NBA title. Brooklyn has won 15 of its past 17 games and moved into second place in the Eastern Conference, one game behind the Philadelphia 76ers. Durant has missed the past 15 games with a hamstring injury that is expected to sideline him a few more games. James suffered a high ankle sprain Saturday in a loss to the Atlanta Hawks, an injury that could cause him to miss multiple weeks. The Lakers are already without Anthony Davis, who has been out with a calf strain and tendinosis in his right leg for over a month and is expected to

Leebron James suffered a high ankle sprain Saturday in a loss to the Atlanta Hawks, an injury that could cause him to miss multiple weeks.

miss at least another week. The Lakers lost their second straight game Sunday at Phoenix and

have dropped into third place in the Western Conference. They are only five games ahead of the eighth-place

Dallas Mavericks. “You’re going to see the Lakers as a large underdog on the road and a small underdog at home,” Jeff Sherman, vice president of risk at the SuperBook at Westgate Las Vegas, said. “You take those two guys [James and Davis] off the team and it’s going to be a fight for a playoff spot.” Sherman moved the Nets to 2-1 to win the NBA title after James’ injury and dropped the Lakers to 4-1, their longest odds of the season. Other sportsbooks were being more cautious with the Lakers’ odds in anticipation of James and Davis returning for the playoffs. In New Jersey, at Caesars Sportsbook by William Hill, the Lakers remained the title favorites at +260, slightly ahead of the Nets at +280. “I’ve nudged the Lakers’ odds up a little and lowered some of the other

Western Conference teams,” Adam Pullen, assistant director of trading for William Hill, told ESPN. “But can’t go too crazy as [James] has got plenty of time to get healthy before the playoffs, if he needs it. If it comes out that that injury is a lot worse, then we’ll have to make some major adjustments.” DraftKings’ sportsbook also was keeping the Lakers as the favorites as of Monday morning, but the majority of books had the Nets with the best odds. With James and 76ers star Joel Embiid sidelined with injuries, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has emerged as the favorite to win the regular-season MVP. Jokic is +110 at William Hill, followed by James (+450) and Embiid (+600). The Nets’ James Harden, who was as long as 100-1 to win MVP at one point, is now 10-1. (ESPN)

March 23-29, 2021

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Frank Worthington: Former England striker dies aged 72 following long illness

McLaren has signed a deal with karting star Ugo Ugochukwu.

McLaren signs long-term deal with karting star Ugo Ugochukwu MCLAREN Racing has signed a long-term agreement with 13-yearold Ugo Ugochukwu, a promising karting champion from the United States. Ugochukwu has already claimed several titles in the US and Europe and was recently crowned FIA European karting champion. His deal with McLaren, which was announced on Monday, provides the team with an option on Ugochukwu’s services in the future while also supporting his development through motorsport’s junior ranks. “We’ve been watching Ugo’s progress with interest, so when the opportunity to sign an agreement with him became available, we had no hesitation moving on it,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown. “Now we’ll focus on giving Ugo the right support when he needs it to help him fulfil his potential.” McLaren has a history of signing

future Formula One stars from a young age. Lewis Hamilton, Kevin Magnussen, Lando Norris and Stoffel Vandoorne have all progressed through the team’s young driver program to star in F1. Norris is entering his third full season with McLaren in F1, while seven-time world champion Hamilton was the same age as Ugochukwu when he first signed a deal with the team. “I’m honored to be signed by such an iconic team as McLaren Racing so early in my career,” said Ugochukwu, who started racing in New York State in 2013. “To have the support of McLaren is fantastic and what any young driver dreams of. “I’m focused right now on developing as a driver and racer, so having McLaren by my side can only help me on and off the track.”

FORMER England striker Frank Worthington has died aged 72 following a long illness. Worthington, who won eight England caps and scored twice for the national team, began his career at Huddersfield Town. He went on to make more than 200 appearances for Leicester City and played for clubs including Bolton, Birmingham City, Southampton, Leeds United and Sunderland. He also had a spell as playermanager of Tranmere Rovers. Former Leicester striker and BBC Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker paid tribute, tweeting: “Profoundly saddened to hear that Frank Worthington has died. He was my boyhood hero when he was at LCFC. “A beautiful footballer, a maverick and a wonderful character who was so kind to this young apprentice when he joined the club. RIP Frank [Elvis].” Worthington was known as much for his flamboyant antics off the pitch as he was for his maverick talents on it. He played in 22 consecutive Football League seasons from 1966 to 1987, scoring 266 goals in 882 appearances in all competitions. In 14 of those campaigns he played in the top division, notching 150 goals in 466 matches, and won the Golden Boot award playing for Bolton in 1978-79 as the leading scorer ahead of Liverpool’s Kenny Dalglish and Arsenal’s Frank Stapleton. It was during that season he scored one of the defining goals of his career

Frank Worthington began his career at Huddersfield in 1966, going on to play for more than 20 clubs during his 26-year career.

against Ipswich at Burnden Park in April 1979, juggling the ball with his back to goal on the edge of the penalty area before turning, knocking the ball over the onrushing defenders and volleying low into the corner. He was player-manager of Tranmere between 1985-87 before having a number of short spells at non-league clubs including Chorley and Weymouth. He was playercoach at hometown club Halifax in the 1991-92 season. He made all eight of his England appearances in 1974, scoring in friendlies against Bulgaria and Argentina. In a statement, the Professional Footballers Association said: “We are very sad to hear the news about Frank Worthington. He was a great player and great character who lit up

the game. He was also a marvellous after dinner entertainer with his football tales. “Our deepest sympathies to Carol and all his family. Frank will be much missed but never forgotten.” Former Bolton striker Alan Gowling, who provided the assist for Worthington’s famous goal against Ipswich, told BBC Radio Manchester: “Frank was a really skilful player. We always used to have a little laugh about the fact I used to do all his running for him while he was doing all the show business bits. “Frank was up there with the George Bests and people of that ilk in football. He had this image of being the playboy. In fairness to him he enjoyed a social life, but his football came first.

England are at ‘end of an era’ - Ugo Monye ENGLAND are at the end of an era and need to make sweeping changes, says former wing Ugo Monye. England finished fifth in the Six Nations after suffering defeats by Scotland, Wales and Ireland in the same campaign for the first time since 1976. “As a group, this is the end of an era,” Monye told Rugby Union Weekly. “Eddie Jones is the right man, but he needs to freshen up the squad and coaching staff, both in terms of personnel and philosophy.” Head coach Jones was appointed to replace Stuart Lancaster in the wake of the team’s pool-stage exit at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and he led them to the final four years later, where they were beaten by South Africa. He has a contract until the end of the next tournament in France in 2023, but has come under pressure with his side lacking a clear style or consistent results so far this year.

England had beaten Ireland in their previous four meetings before Saturday’s defeat in Dublin.

Former England scrum-half Danny Care believes the Rugby Football Union have reached a point where they have to “stick or twist” with Jones, either backing him through to the end of France 2023 or allowing a new man to come in.

“Either they say this is our man and throw everything at him, or they decide to change it,” he said. “Look at like South Africa. 18 months before winning the the last World Cup, they brought in Rassie Erasmus as head coach.

“It had a drastic change on that whole squad and nation. The RFU has a big, big decision on their hands. “People are falling out of love with England Rugby - we need to inspire kids in the here and now with young players, exciting rugby.” Monye believes that England need new leadership on the pitch to bring new ideas. The most-capped players in England’s team in Ireland were scrum-half Ben Youngs (109 caps), fly-half George Ford (77) and captain and inside centre Owen Farrell (93). “I think a team can be together too long,” said Monye. “You need someone to burst into that leadership group and try and change a philosophy. We need to break up this holy huddle if we want to invoke change.” The destiny of this year’s title will be decided on Friday night in Paris when Scotland and France meet in a fixture postponed from its original

February date by a Covid outbreak in the France camp. France, who kept alive their hopes of lifting the trophy with a dramatic late win over Wales on Saturday, need a bonus-point win and a 21-point winning margin to take the title. A 20-point winning margin and six or more tries would also be enough to unseat Wales at the top of the table. Care thinks Wales can start planning celebrations with some confidence. “Surely Scotland are not going to lose by 21 points,” he said. “Scotland had the best defence in last year’s Six Nations, and they still have a very good defence. “I think everyone has gone France mad. They only just scraped home against Wales who were down to 13, and we didn’t see their attack particularly against England, when they lost to a team that finished fifth in the tournament.”

Sports National

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

(File) The Turks and Caicos Islands Senior National Football players are currently in the Dominican Republic.

National football coach says “World Cup Qualifiers mean a great deal to the country” FOR the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), competing in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifying First Round is more than just football. According to Head Coach Omar Edwards, national pride and fervor are at the heart of the British territory as it pushes on to establish its credentials in the game, which started to bear fruit by competing in the Concacaf Nations League. “Competing in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers mean a great deal to the country. The players are excited about it, plus the country on a whole is looking forward to it,” the Jamaican shared with Concacaf.com. Importantly, too, players are expected to directly benefit from the exposure competing in a high-level competition, where all 30 nations in the First Round of the Qatar 2022 Qualifiers are guaranteed four matches. “The players want to give

themselves the opportunity to play against good opponents, and to go out there and market themselves. We are here building a program and the players have shown signs of improvement and development,” noted Edwards. Edwards, who is one of four Jamaicans working with football in the TCI, says Concacaf’s new World Cup Qualifying format is a blessing, especially for the smaller members of the confederation. “The revised format guarantees us four games in the preliminary round. Gone are the days where the format would only guarantee one two-legged series for countries like us, where when you lose you go home. “This new format now gives you room that if you mess up in your first game, you would have the opportunity to fix things going forward. And for countries like the Turk and Caicos Islands who have not been playing a lot of international matches over

the years, at least we are now guaranteed to play these games. These games can only make the players get better and to make them more competitive,” he noted. The TCI has been drawn in Group E of the first phase of qualification with Nicaragua, Haiti, Belize and Saint Lucia. Edwards and his players are already looking forward to their opening match against the Central Americans. “Our first game is going to be against Nicaragua on March 27, and our second game is going to be against Belize on March 30, and we know that these are good teams. These teams are rated far better than us in FIFA and certainly in Concacaf. “But our objective is to play these games and give them our very best. The coaching staff has asked the players to just go out there and put their best foot forward and just go out there and try and win

games,” he stated. “We have been drawn in a very tough group, but I guess any group we would have been drawn in would be tough. But we understand the task at hand and we understand that there are some good teams in our group. We expect these teams to push the Turks and Caicos Islands and we can only get better from the experience,” Edwards added. The TCI will complete the First Round with games against Haiti and Saint Lucia in August. As part of preparation, the TCI is due for a camp in the Dominican Republic, where they will play both matches in the March phase. “Thanks to our president and general secretary, we will be going off to a two-week camp in the Dominican Republic, and we will be trying to get two friendly games before our first World Cup Qualifying game against Nicaragua,” Edwards said.

In Group E, Nicaragua and Saint Lucia do battle at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium on March 24. Group action intensifies with Haiti hosting Belize at Stadio Sylvio Cator in the Haitian capital a day later. On March 27, TCI and Nicaragua will give it their best at Estadio Panamericano in the Dominican Republic, followed by Saint Lucia and Haiti at a venue and time to be decided. To conclude, March 30 will see Belize and Turks and Caicos Islands get down to business at Estadio Panamericano. Thanks to our president and general secretary, we will be going off to a two-week camp in the Dominican Republic, and we will be trying to get two friendly games before our first World Cup Qualifying game against Nicaragua,” Edwards said. (CONCACAF)

Emotional Zlatan Ibrahimovic reduced to tears on return to Sweden squad ZLATAN Ibrahimovic was reduced to tears in his first media conference since returning to Sweden international football squad while explaining his son’s reaction to his call-up. The normally stoic 39-yearold, who is making a return to international football after

first retiring in 2016, became emotional as he described how his 12-year-old son Vincent became tearful when he left home to rejoin the squad after a five-year absence. “Vincent cried when I left him,” Ibrahimovic said in the press conference, sitting

alongside Sweden coach Janne Andersson, before shedding a few tears himself. He has two sons, 14-yearold Maximilian and Vincent. Ibrahimovic is Sweden’s alltime leading goalscorer with 62 goals in 116 games and has been described as “Sweden’s

greatest footballer of all time.” After learning of Ibrahimovic’s interest in making a surprise return, Andersson flew to Milan to seal the deal. Ibrahimovic has rejoined the squad for the countries first qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup.

Ibrahimovic cries during a press conference.

March 23-29, 2021

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

HOLE IN ONE

Helcy-Ann Sauver is having a great final season for her school.

New Provo Golf Club member Kerry Wessinger scored a hole-in-one last week using a 7 iron on the par-three eighth hole at the Provo Golf Club course.

Hole-in-one shots might look achievable, but the majority of golfers have never landed the prestigious shot. In fact, according to analysis, the odds of making a hole-inone is over 10,000 to 1. The yardage to reach the eighth hole from the tee box are Black 185; Blue 165; White 150: Red 122. Congratulations Mrs Wessinger.

Sauver leads school’s relay team to another victory NATIONAL sprinter Helcy-Ann Sauver led her Benedict College women’s track and field relay team to another victory in the 4X100M race when they competed over the weekend at the Columbia International University College Invitational.

Grace Coleman Reaston-Brown finished third in one of her races.

The 23-year-old, who has been fantastic this season, anchored her side to a 48.62s run. It was the second consecutive win for the side after placing first a few weeks ago at the Savannah State Eye Opener Meet in Savannah, Georgia.

The psychology major, who has had her share of injuries over the last few years, is hoping to stay healthy in this, her final season. Along with the relays, the sprinter is eager to dominate in the 100M and the 200M races.

The 14-year-old continues to improve.

Reaston-Brown finishes on the podium in the Bahamas ONE of the Turks and Caicos best junior sailors, Grace Coleman Reaston-Brown, registered a podium finish when she competed in the Bahamas Youth Olympic

Championship over the weekend in Nassau. The 14-year-old, who was the second youngest at the event, placed third in her last race.

She finished fifth overall out of 14 laser radials. This was her third regatta in laser radials. The young teen has been dynamic over the years; last September, she

sailed to an overall victory with her laser 4.7 at the Bart’s Bash, when the Provo Sailing Academy took part in the “The Largest Sailing Race in the World”.

Prior to that, in March of 2020, she became the TCI’s first sailor to win any dingy regatta in a Bahamian competition when she sailed to first place in the Laser 4.7 fleet.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021