TC Weekly News, November 30 - December 6, 2024

Electronic voting now possible with passage of Elections Amendment Bill

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a landmark move towards modernising its electoral process, the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly has passed the Elections Amendment Bill 2024.

This significant legislation paves the way for the introduction of electronic voting and advanced polling, marking a transformative shift in the way elections will be conducted in the territory.

While the government hails the move as a leap towards efficiency and inclusivity, the bill’s passage has been met with a degree of contention, with concerns raised about the logistics, security, and potential implications for ballot secrecy.

On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly debated proposed amendments to the territory’s electoral process, with the introduction of electronic voting and advanced polling taking centre stage.

Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles, presented the Elections Amendment Bill 2024, emphasising the need to align the electoral process with recent constitutional amendments and recommendations from international election observers.

The bill proposes a shift towards electronic voting machines, already successfully deployed in Angola and other overseas territories.

In her address to the House, Knowles stated, “The house having voted funds to support the supervisor, ensuring that at this next election, we have electronic voting

and so there are some changes in the bill that would reflect that... These machines, of course, have well-established credentials. They are used around the world.”

Nevertheless, the introduction of these machines has not been without its critics.

Opposition Appointed Member, Hon Alvin Garland, while acknowledging the benefits of electronic voting, expressed reservations about the lack of public awareness and understanding of the new system.

He called for additional public demonstrations of the machines, stating, “I believe that we should have another demonstration prior to polling day, and as many as we can have, so that people are good as to how these machines work.”

Furthermore, the bill proposes the introduction of advanced polling for specific groups, including the elderly, physically impaired,

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essential workers, and prisoners.

While the move is seen as a positive step towards inclusivity, concerns have been raised about the logistical challenges, particularly regarding voting arrangements for prisoners.

Member of Parliament for Leeward and Long Bay, Hon Akierra Missick also voiced concerns about potential threats to ballot privacy with the new electronic system.

Despite the concerns, the

government maintains that the proposed amendments are essential for modernising the electoral process and ensuring efficiency and inclusivity.

The debate continued as the House of Assembly navigated these complex issues, with the aim of striking a balance between progression and the preservation of the integrity of the electoral process.

The Bill was passed with further

amendments highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with the modernisation of democratic processes in the digital age.

The Turks and Caicos Islands, like many other nations, are grappling with how to leverage technology to improve their electoral systems while ensuring that the fundamental principles of democracy, such as transparency, security, and privacy, are upheld.

Police warn women passengers about violent jitney incidents

Police are once again warning women about the dangers of accepting rides from unknown individuals following a violent incident.

In a statement released on Monday, the police reported a serious assault on a female that occurred on Saturday, November 23.

Around midday on that day, the victim entered what she believed was a jitney on Black Crow Road in Kew Town. She was later found unconscious with severe injuries in the Granny Hill area of Five Cays.

Superintendent Dean Holden, who oversees Crime, Safeguarding, Public Protection, and Intelligence, stated that while the motive for the attack is still unclear, it may have been sexually motivated.

He assured the public that detectives are working diligently to piece together the sequence of events.

The victim was taken to the hospital for medical care and support from specially trained officers.

“The Royal TCI Police Force strongly advises against using unlicensed jitneys, as they can pose serious risks to personal safety,” Holden cautioned, adding, “We are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in this investigation.

The jitney involved is described as a small black car with two males inside, travelling from Black Crow Road in Kew Town to Granny Hill in Five Cays, for two to three hours.”

Police urge anyone with information to notify the nearest police station, call 911, contact the Serious Crime Unit at 2311842, reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, or use the Crime Stoppers P3 app to provide any information anonymously that may help with the investigation.

SAFETY TIPS

• Before entering a vehicle, look at the license plate or take a photo of the number plate. Write it on your phone as soon as you get in so you don’t forget it.

• Mentally note the vehicle’s

colour and make. Observe the driver and other passengers.

• If you notice you’re heading off-course, you can message family and friends with the license plate number. If it becomes an emergency, call 911, giving them the license plate number, make, model, and direction you are heading.

• Seating arrangement – If you are the only passenger in the vehicle, sit in the backseat. Logically, you have a view of the driver and remove yourself from the possibility of any inappropriate gropes, etc. The backseat passenger side is usually best, as you’ve placed yourself at the furthest point from the driver.

• Concentrate on the road. Avoid playing games on your phone and becoming distracted.

• Ensure you have enough data and that your phone is charged at least 50 per cent. If you notice the driver going off route, call someone on your phone so the driver knows you’re in contact with someone.

Attorney General Hon Rhondalee Brathwaite-Knowles

Election officials demonstrate how voters will use the electronic systems to cast their ballots

Hospital contract in jeopardy as Govt demands better service

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a move that underscores its commitment to ensuring top-tier healthcare for its citizens, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) has announced a firm stance against InterHealth Canada (IHC), the operator of the nation’s two major hospitals.

Citing concerns over value for money and service quality, the government is set to enforce its contractual rights, potentially leading to financial penalties, mandated service improvements, or even contract termination.

The relationship between TCIG and IHC, bound by a long-term Public-Private Partnership (PPP) contract, has been under strain due to perceived underperformance by IHC. Despite the contract’s stipulation for “best in class” services, the government contends that these standards have not been consistently met, a statement revealed on Monday, November 25, 2024.

Recent months have seen intensified efforts by TCIG to hold IHC accountable, including the engagement of specialist PPP advisors.

This scrutiny has reportedly uncovered areas of non-compliance, providing TCIG with leverage to pursue contractual remedies. While IHC disputes these findings, the dialogue has failed to yield a satisfactory resolution, prompting the government’s decisive action.

The Cabinet’s decision to enforce contractual rights could

TCI Hospital – Cheshire Hall Medical Centre

have significant implications for IHC and the future of healthcare delivery in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Potential actions include the imposition of financial deductions, the enforcement of service improvement plans, or even the government stepping in to directly provide services. In a worst-case scenario for IHC, the contract could be terminated entirely, the

government explained in a recent statement.

This development comes amidst ongoing external reviews of key clinical areas within the hospitals, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to ensuring healthcare quality. In the statement, TCIG affirmed its determination to take all necessary steps to provide its citizens with a modern, high-quality, and cost-effective

Scotiabank Turks and Caicos wins

Best Digital Bank Award 2024

Scotiabank has been named among the Best Consumer Digital Bank Award 2024 winners by Global Finance (New York). The Turks and Caicos Islands received the coveted award along with counterparts operating in Jamaica, The Bahamas and the Cayman Islands.

Managing Director Scotiabank Turks and Caicos, Dr Suzan Snaggs Wilson said: “Receiving this prestigious award is indeed a testament to the ongoing transformation by Scotiabank to make banking easier and accessible to all. Our commitment to investing in technology over

the years continues to drive the strategy to improve access and make each client experience a memorable one.”

The Global Finance Best Digital Bank Award winners are chosen based on entries provided by financial institutions. Entrants are judged on the breadth of product offerings, success in migrating customers to digital platforms, acquiring and retaining new customers, and using digital technologies to improve business processes, and deliver other benefits. Sub-category winners were selected based on the relative strength and success of those web

products and services.

“The rapid advancements in fintech, the rise of digital currencies, and the increasing importance of cybersecurity are continually redefining the benchmarks for exceptional digital banking services,” said Joseph Giarraputo, founder and editorial director of Global Finance. “Global Finance’s Best Digital Bank Awards celebrate the financial institutions that are leading the way with innovative digital solutions and setting new standards in the industry.”

Scotiabank was also named the Best Digital Bank 2024 in Trinidad & Tobago and Guyana.

management capacity in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Commenting on retaining P2G, Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon Shaun Malcolm said, “This engagement of P2G will help the ministry ensure that we are getting the best value and services as per the contract as well as guarantee that all parties in the contract adhere to their obligations”.

He further explained that P2G’s service improvement strategy centres on the implementation and close management of continuous improvement key performance indicators with measurable standards that aim to improve service quality and efficiency over time.

On its official website, P2G states that performance analysis forms a critical cornerstone of effective management and with contracts often spanning decades and encompassing complex scopes, the robust analysis of contractor performance is not just crucial, it’s imperative.

healthcare system.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further negotiations or escalating actions.

Last year, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government hired P2G, a UK-based contract support firm to strengthen management of the TCI hospitals’ Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The engagement of P2G, is also aimed at building contract

The company states; “This is where P2G contract supports LLP, a leader in contract management and improvement plans, steps in as a vital ally for public sector authorities.”

The Turks and Caicos government signed a PPP contract with Interhealth Canada in 2008/09 to build and operate two hospitals in the territory, the Cockburn Town Medical Centre on Grand Turk and the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Providenciales.

Dr Suzan Snaggs Wilson

COMMISSIONER’S RESIGNATION

Seven months into his tenure, the Commissioner of Police for the Turks and Caicos Islands has resigned for personal reasons amid growing public concerns regarding safety and effective leadership.

On Thursday, November 22, the Governor announced that she had accepted Edvin Martin’s resignation as Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. The statement indicated, “The circumstances are unavoidable due to a personal matter that requires Mr. Martin’s urgent attention”.

Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam assured the public that to maintain stability and direction, Deputy Commissioner Fitz Bailey will serve as the acting Commissioner starting November 22 (Friday), while the process to recruit a permanent replacement is undertaken.

When news of Martin’s resignation was made public, many residents expressed that they were not surprised by yet another resignation from the Commission.

What are your thoughts?

Direction needed

Most recently, the Leader of the Opposition called out the government for the choice in outgoing police commissioner and made an impassioned plea for the position to be ‘localised”. This is important and critical as the Turks & Caicos moves into a new era of ‘baby steps’ constitutional advance. It is time that the voters through their elected government take the reins of how the security apparatus in the TCI is managed. This issue has less to do with the medical problem of the resigning Commissioner but more to do with how future commissioners are appointed.

It can be taken that all appointments are indeed “personal” and such issues do attend such processes. With ministers, the Premier, notwithstanding, forming part of the National Security Council (the NSC), elected officials must insist on who the next Commissioner will be.

Take responsibility and resign also

The Turks and Caicos Islands find itself at a crossroads where in the midst of rising crime,

There seem to be more questions than answers.

Falling on one’s sword

murders, social disorder, and failure of law enforcement, the commissioner of police, resigns on “personal” grounds. It is not personal. In the old days when a minister or person responsible for a huge area of public life in a nation, failed, he resigned and took responsibility for the failure. In fact, when someone way down below the level of the minister in a ministry did something wrong, the minister would resign, even though he was unaware.

That is called Responsibility and the Taking of Responsibility, It follows that where the PREMIER AND THE GOVERNOR, a ‘self-titled dynamic duo’, a twosome, are calling themselves, chairpersons of the National Security Council, the Body to advise of Crime and Defence Policy, and the appointment of a police commissioner, they should now resign.

Is there more to this?

I know a lot of TCIslanders want their own, but Mr Edvin Martin was no pushover. He has a good, solid, track record. Why would he just up and resign? Is there more to this story than what we are being told? Was he pushed to resign? Was he or his family threatened by the underworld or others?

Ministers, premiers, Governors and other high ranking officials, “owing to incompetence” or ‘simply being unaware of the chaos reigning under them’ usually ‘do the right thing and resign,’ it’s called, “falling on one’s sword” for the sake of the government and the country.

You are with the high rates of crime, not being able to find and retain the right leadership for the police force, basically of “no-use to system” and it is” time for you to go.”! In the UK when a former UK Government Minister, who was blind, David Blunkett, called immigration to find out about his maid’s work permit application, when that came out, he was forced to resign.

The notion that he may have been trying to influence the outcome of the application was too much and he had to accept responsibility for a little call and go.

So now where the Premier is responsible for budgeting for crime fighting, chairing the NSC with the Governor and crime and murders are going through the Roof, ‘falling down on the job” He should do the right thing, follow the Commissioner, resign, and ask the Governor to go with him as well.

It would be that future premiers and persons having any to do with national security would be taken more seriously.

Succession plan needed

Crime is out of the roof, the country’s future

is at stake. The right leadership is needed to man the police force now and more than ever. There is indeed the perception that the Turks & Caicos Islands is the “employment mill” for the rest of the world to attract the “unemployed of the Planet”.

It is usually preferable when all else fails for the country to sensibly recruit from the region. Yet where is the effort and demand from the existing government to prepare, expose and train, existing local police officials for career advancement in the police force?

The British experiment should now be over, i.e. the one in 2012, where locals were kept from the control of the force. It did not work. Locals are now needed. Even though ministers are not ‘responsible for the police” they do have a say by simply being in charge of the national budget, Minister of Finance, ministers sitting in Cabinet with the Governor where crime policy is debated and them having a seat on the National Security Council.

They should have demanded and insisted that a cadre and a group of locals be prepared to take over the reigns of government. This is where local politicians are shown ‘wanting”!

Simply put, how could you budget for police but sit idly by while the Governor picks who she likes? If you don’t feel you have a say in the process, you are not what

Former Police Commissioner Edvin Martin

Cruise sector surges with one million passengers

The Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed one million cruise passengers in the first ten months of 2024, exceeding the total for all of 2023.

By October 31, 2024, there were 1,034,251 cruise passengers arriving at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre, a significant increase from the 924,250 passengers in 2023.

“Grand Turk is thriving,”

Minister of Tourism, Hon Josephine Connolly said while

noting that there has been a clear increase in both the number of ships and passengers arriving at the Cruise Centre throughout the year.

A recent BREA report also revealed that cruise passengers, crew members, and cruise lines spent over $116m over the past year.

The minister said they recognise the growth in the cruise sector and are working to enhance the offerings and visitor experiences in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

this country needs as a government. You should actually demand a say and issue reason why you want a local.

You can say that the interests of the people of the TCI trump those of the Grace Bay Mafia. You can say that you prefer a local because he has the experience, ‘know how’ and ability to deal with the “streets”. As minister and Premier and MPs, you are all saying “none of that!

Troubling

This trend is troubling. Perhaps he was doing such a great job by shutting down the brothel houses in Kew Town and on South Dock Road, exposing sex trafficking that seems to be rampant in the Turks and Caicos and impacting/exposing some high-level officials that they kind of forced his hand to resign.

We have seen some turnaround in persons being charged. We pray that the Lord sends someone who will be allowed to do their job without impunity and interference from powers that be in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

And another one bites the dust!

It seems that these days, the members of our police force spend more time in welcoming ceremonies for new commissioners than they do on routine policing. While legitimate emergencies can strike any of us, and force an unplanned life change, it does seem peculiar that so many of our recent commissioners have had such short tenures that they barely get a chance to know the communities they are responsible for protecting.

It is common knowledge that there exists a huge “credibility gap” between the RTCPF senior officers and its general ranks, and one can hardly blame the ranks for being unsettled if there is no continuity among their commanders. No rational person would suggest that this is a racial issue, but the fact remains that they have been subjected to a “revolving door” series of white commissioners from respected police forces, and the detrimental effect this has on staff morale cannot be questioned. One must also wonder whether some of these past commissioners have departed early after discovering the condition of the “swamp” in which they found themselves.

So let’s get on with the replacement of the departing commissioner, and hope that the hiring process includes sufficient background and medical checks to boost his chances of staying in the position long enough to really make a difference.

And a tip for the new commissioner on the matter of our increasing violent crime rate – you can’t win a street fight if you’re playing by the Marquis of Queensberry rules!

This includes new initiatives and infrastructural improvements to ensure that Grand Turk remains one of the top ports for cruise lines.

In the past year, the Cruise Centre has welcomed new cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and MSC Seascape.

Experience Turks and Caicos is eager to capitalise on the Island’s growing popularity by creating new and improved offerings for visitors while ensuring that local

citizens benefit economically, supporting the pillar of inclusive growth, Connolly stated.

Recently, the ministry collaborated with the Aquila Centre for Cruise to host two workshops focused on Product Development and Vendor Excellence. These workshops are aimed at empowering tour operators and vendors, helping them strengthen their businesses and create new opportunities.

Additionally, Experience Turks

and Caicos has launched a weekly food and culture fair called Taste of Turks, which takes place every Thursday from 10 am to 8:30 pm on Queen Street. This celebration showcases the cuisine and culture of the islands, providing an immersive experience for both cruise passengers and locals. It features vendors selling authentic Turks and Caicos Islands cuisine, locally made gifts, and live performances.

UK travel agents explore TCI

BY SHANICE LIGHTBOURNE

The Turks and Caicos Islands proudly showcased the stunning attractions and experiences our destination has to offer to travel agents organised by Aspire UK.

The travel agents arrived on the islands on November 16 and explored Providenciales and South Caicos.

During an event at The Shore Club on November 19 to celebrate their arrival, Victoria Cranmer from Experience Turks & Caicos in the UK market explained that annually, Aspire UK, one of the “top luxury travel magazines, sends travel agents to a different destination.

“We’ve got people like CV Villas, ITC which is a luxury tour operator, Abercrombie & Kent which are luxury tour operators, and cruise companies. So, all very high-end….”

She added that they saw the raw beauty of the islands and

understood their unique features.

“So, they really get to understand why they sell Turks & Caicos to their clients over more traditional Caribbean islands or other destinations like the Maldives.”

She also mentioned plans to improve the accessibility by British Airways to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“The guests coming on British Airways don’t get off the plane. It just touches down in Nassau and then it comes on here. We’re trying to work with British Airways to get more flights and even a non-stop service. So, that is the ultimate goal and that’s the conversations that we’ve been having,” she stated.

Minister of Tourism, Hon Josephine Connolly expressed her excitement about the travel agents being present and the feedback she has received.

“I’m just elated to have the Aspire team here visiting. There are about 41 travel agents here. That speaks volumes of the work

that we are trying to do to promote tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands. As you know, tourism is our main industry and we are a multi-island destination and today they visited South Caicos and they were thrilled to bits and I am happy to have received all the positive feedback from their trips around Providenciales and from South Caicos today,” She expressed. Chris Etheridge, from CV Villas, highlighted the potential tourism growth in the Turks and Caicos Islands, using the UK market.

“I think the UK market has a massive opportunity for Turks and Caicos as a whole. That’s not just this island, but also the other islands. We went to South Caicos today, which was a phenomenal experience. I think it’s a great opportunity to showcase some of the best UK travel trade to the islands of Turks and Caicos,” he stated.

The evening culminated with dinner and conversations about the prospects for tourism in the TCI.

An event was held at Shore Club to celebrate the travel agents’ arrival

Carnival Cruise docked at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre

PDM leader vows to prioritise people-centre development

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood has outlined a bold vision for the future under a PDM government, promising to tackle economic uncertainty, crime, illegal immigration, healthcare deficiencies, environmental threats, and social disparities head-on.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, the party leader delivered a scathing critique of the current government’s handling of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ pressing issues.

“We stand at a crossroads,” Astwood declared, “but together, we possess the strength and the passion to transform these trials into victories.”

Astwood’s address centred on the PDM’s campaign slogan, “Your Future, Our Priority,” emphasising a commitment to the well-being of the people.

He accused the current

government of neglecting the needs of the populace, vowing that a

PDM government would prioritise the people’s interests year-round,

not just during election season.

“We will never withhold good and wait until it benefits us and then give it to the people,” Astwood asserted. “We believe that the people should always benefit from the success of the country.”

A key plank of the PDM’s platform is a proposed cost-ofliving stimulus programme.

Astwood pledged to deliver quarterly stimulus payments to citizens, ensuring that the benefits of economic surpluses are directly shared with the people.

“We have the money,” Astwood emphasised, outlining a plan to allocate $60m for the stimulus programme. “And if we make more money, the people will get more.”

Astwood also underscored the PDM’s commitment to workforce development, pledging to equip individuals with the skills and resources needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Public works scrambles to address widespread flooding amidst outcry

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands are reeling from the aftermath of torrential rains that have triggered extensive flooding across the territory.

The Public Works Department (PWD), under the Office of the Deputy Premier and Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, is facing mounting criticism from residents as they grapple with the consequences of inadequate drainage systems.

Floodwaters have inundated several communities, including Blue Hills, Leeward, Long Bay, Five Cays, and Kewtown, leaving residents stranded and frustrated.

The situation was further exacerbated by submerged vehicles and severe traffic congestion, prompting a wave of public discontent aimed at the government’s perceived lack of preparedness.

In response to the escalating crisis, the PWD has launched emergency flood-reduction measures, focusing on vulnerable areas such as Long Bay, Long Bay Hills, and Leeward Palms on Providenciales. Overnight, crews worked tirelessly to install drainage wells and deploy stationary and mobile pumps to divert water and alleviate the flooding.

However, residents argue that these efforts are too little, too late, emphasising the need for longterm infrastructure investments to

prevent future flooding disasters.

The PWD has assured the public that works will continue, with teams actively identifying additional flood-prone zones and deploying resources accordingly.

As the clean-up operation unfolds, the PWD is urging residents to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel through affected areas. A dedicated public works hotline has been established to report flooding-related issues, with separate numbers provided for Providenciales, Grand Turk, North/Middle Caicos, and South Caicos.

While the PWD’s efforts to mitigate the immediate crisis are underway, questions linger about the government’s commitment

He promised “customised solutions” to cater to the unique needs of individuals, local businesses, and organisations.

Furthermore, Astwood reiterated the PDM’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis. He pledged to restore Crown land to those who have lost it and to implement a home ownership policy that empowers not only the low and middle classes but also working professionals.

“We are being priced out of paradise,” Astwood lamented. “Through our policies, we will ensure that you are properly funded.”

The Opposition Leader’s impassioned speech resonated with a sense of urgency and determination, painting a stark contrast between the PDM’s vision for the future and the perceived shortcomings of the current administration.

With a focus on economic empowerment, social wellbeing, and individual prosperity, Astwood’s message seeks to galvanise support for the PDM as a viable alternative in the upcoming general elections.

to address the underlying infrastructure deficiencies that have left the islands vulnerable to flooding.

The public’s patience is wearing thin, and calls for accountability and proactive measures are growing louder.

The PWD has pledged to provide regular updates on the situation, but the true test will be whether these efforts translate into tangible improvements in the territory’s resilience to extreme weather events.

The eyes of the public are now fixed on the government’s response to an age-old problem, as the Turks and Caicos Islands navigate this challenging chapter and seek to build a more flood-resistant future.

Thirty-three-year-old Earl Darrell Basden, of Blue Hills Providenciales, has been charged with burglary and is remanded to prison.

Basden is accused of burglarising a residence in the Thompson Cove community on October 26.

Police said that investigations were launched following the report, and the Blue Hills man was arrested and subsequently charged on November 18. He appeared in the Magistrate Court on November 21 and was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison until January 9, 2025, for his next court hearing.

Earl Darrell Basden Thompson Cove’s accused burglar remanded until 2025

Leader of the Peoples Democratic Movement, Hon Edwin Astwood

Vehicles were seen partially submerged in flood waters across Providenciales

A Long Bay resident surfs through the flooded streets

Rape accused remanded to prison

Twenty-year-old Ernst Junior Jaboin, from Kew Town, Providenciales has been remanded to His Majesty’s Prison on charges of rape and robbery.

Jaboin appeared at the Providenciales Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, November 21, facing allegations related to incidents that occurred on August 18.

According to police, Jaboin was charged by officers from the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit on November 19, following a report filed on August 18.

He is scheduled to appear in court again on January 10, 2025, for a Sufficiency Hearing

Fatal road accident in Grand Turk

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding an incident that resulted in the death of a man following a collision between a cyclist and a motor vehicle.

At approximately 5:16 pm on Saturday, November 23, police received a report of the accident in Grand Turk. Emergency Medical

Young

A 20-year-old man from Wheeland, Blue Hills, has been charged with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.

According to police reports, the incident occurred on November 19, when Rodney Silver entered a business

Technicians and officers from the Grand Turk Police Station were immediately dispatched to the scene near IGA Supermarket.

Upon arrival, they found a male identified as Omar Williams receiving CPR. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Willimas succumbed to injuries sustained.

Grand Turk’s veterinary services under scrutiny

– Department of Agriculture clarifies role amidst animal welfare concerns

In response to mounting concerns over veterinary care accessibility, the Department of Agriculture has issued a statement clarifying its role and responsibilities concerning animal welfare on the island.

While acknowledging the community’s concerns, the department emphasised that its legal mandate is exclusively focused on providing veterinary services for livestock and feral animals, not domestic pets.

The department’s statement underscores a critical distinction in the scope of its services.

While it actively provides daily care for injured donkeys, conducts weekly visits to livestock farms, including His Majesty’s Prison Farm, and engages with horse owners on basic veterinary care, it does not have the legal authority, resources, or facilities to extend these services to pets and domestic animals.

This clarification comes in the wake of growing concerns among

establishment, brandished what appeared to be a gun and demanded cash.

Following the incident, an investigation was launched, and on November 23, police arrested the alleged robber. He has since been brought before the court to answer the two charges.

A 42-year-old man, Dwight Simmons, also known as ‘Skinna,’ has been charged with the murder of David McIntosh.

Simmons, a resident of Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged on November 26 following guidance from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Simmons appeared before a magistrate on November 27, where he was remanded in custody at His Majesty’s Prison. A Sufficiency Hearing is scheduled for January 10, 2025.

According to the charges, Simmons is accused of murdering David McIntosh on July 19, 2023, in Providenciales, contrary to Section 3 of the Offenses Against the Person Ordinance, Chapter 3.08.

David McIntosh, aged 52 and

pet owners about the limited availability of full-time veterinary services on the island.

The department’s chief veterinary officer conducts scheduled visits to Grand Turk, but these are primarily aimed at addressing urgent animal health issues related to livestock and feral animals.

In its statement, the department outlined its ongoing initiatives to enhance animal welfare in collaboration with various partners.

These include supporting spay and neuter clinics with the TCSPCA to manage the pet population responsibly, working with UK experts to develop sustainable care plans for the island’s donkey population, and offering regular training sessions for livestock and horse owners on proper animal husbandry and care practices.

However, the department emphasised that the primary responsibility for the care and management of pets and domestic

animals rests with their owners. It strongly encouraged residents to seek care for their pets from private veterinary clinicians who visit Grand Turk.

The department also addressed the issue of the feral donkey population, urging residents not to feed them, particularly along roadsides.

Feeding disrupts their natural behaviour, increases the risk of injury to both people and animals, and negatively impacts the local ecosystem.

While the department’s clarification provides much-needed transparency, it also highlights the urgent need for expanded veterinary services on Grand Turk, particularly for domestic pets. This issue is likely to remain a focal point for community discussion and advocacy moving forward as residents continue to press the government to do more to ensure the well-being of animals in the nation’s capital.

‘Killy Killy’ convicted on three charges

Jamaican national Andre ‘Killy Killy’ DeSouza’s trial concluded this week, resulting in a seven-year prison sentence on three serious charges.

DeSouza was convicted for carrying a firearm, for which he received seven years, and for carrying ammunition, also resulting in another seven years of imprisonment.

Additionally, he received a twomonth sentence for overstaying his leave to remain in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The sentences will run concurrently, and a deportation order will be enforced upon the completion of his sentence.

These convictions stem from an incident on September 21, 2022, during a police investigation in the Lofton Morley area, where DeSouza attempted to evade officers while brandishing a firearm.

A loaded Taurus Millennium G2 9mm pistol, with its serial number erased, along with ammunition, was later recovered.

Superintendent Dean Holden, who oversees Crime, Safeguarding, Public Protection, and Intelligence, expressed gratitude for the professionalism and dedication of the officers involved in the investigation and arrest, as well as

Andre ‘Killy Killy’ DeSouza

for the prosecution and outcome of the trial.

“The sentencing of Andre DeSouza underscores the RTCIPF’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of our community.

I commend the diligence and bravery of the officers involved in this case. Their efforts reflect the high standards of service and dedication within the RTCIPF,” Superintendent Holden stated.

The court’s sentence represents the maximum penalty under the Firearms Ordinance that was in effect when the offence occurred in

September 2022. Superintendent Holden explained that the ordinance was amended in October 2022, increasing sentencing powers to 12 years of imprisonment; however, since the offence occurred before that amendment, the court had to adhere to the previous ordinance and its lesser sentencing authority.

Anyone with information on illegal activities is asked to contact the closest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or the Crime Stoppers P3 to provide information anonymously.

Dwight ‘Skinna’ Simmons accused of murder

charged with

Ernst Junior Jaboin

PNP government slams opposition’s ‘empty promises’ amidst stimulus payment debate

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, Leader of the Progressive National Party (PNP) recently launched a scathing attack on the Opposition Leader, Hon Edwin Astwood, over his pledge to provide three annual stimulus payments if elected.

In a fiery statement released on Monday, November 25, 2024, Misick branded the proposal as “unrealistic” and lacking “historical precedent and economic feasibility,” while underscoring his government’s commitment to “responsible governance and sustainable solutions”.

The heart of the dispute lies in the differing approaches to stimulus payments.

While Astwood views them as a potential tool for regular economic relief, Misick argues that such payments are “strategic interventions” reserved for periods

of “significant economic distress”.

He emphasised that such measures necessitate specific fiscal conditions, including budget surpluses or identified funding sources, to avoid compromising essential services or burdening taxpayers.

“Stimulus packages are not political tools; they are carefully considered measures designed to provide relief during exceptional circumstances,” stated Premier Misick. He further questioned the Opposition’s ability to finance such frequent payments without resorting to tax hikes or cuts to critical services.

The PNP government, in its defence, highlighted its track record of implementing policies aimed at improving the economic well-being of Turks and Caicos Islanders.

These initiatives include targeted cost-of-living relief measures such as stimulus payments, electricity

subsidies, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The government also pointed to its efforts to empower vulnerable populations through pension increases, welfare program expansions, and financial assistance programmes for the elderly.

Misick said: “We expanded welfare programmes, including home help, juvenile care, and welfare grants, to provide comprehensive support to those in need.

“We raised the foster care stipend to $1,500 per month, ensuring adequate support for children in care.

“We launched a programme increasing assistance to $1,000

per month to all senior citizens, ensuring they can meet their basic needs with dignity.”

Premier Misick contrasted his government’s actions with the Opposition’s “empty promises,” stating, “Our government has a proven track record of standing with our people, not just in words but in actions. We act decisively, not recklessly, because we understand the responsibility that comes with governing.”

He said: “Since February 2021, the PNP has issued three stimulus/ relief packages to eligible citizens equalling $45m.

“The upcoming fourth payment underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting households amid rising costs and

will amount to over $50m in payouts to the people of these islands.

“We allocated $5m between October and December 2022 to subsidise electricity costs, mitigating the impact of global fuel price increases”, he added.

The Premier’s statement concluded with a firm rebuke of Astwood’s proposals, emphasizing the importance of leadership grounded in “integrity, realism, and action.”

As the political temperature rises in the Turks and Caicos Islands, this clash over stimulus payments is set to become a central issue in the upcoming election, forcing voters to weigh the promises of economic relief against concerns about fiscal responsibility.

PDM vows to protect TCIslanders from workplace mistreatment

In a steamy press conference, Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) Chair Ezra Taylor and Deputy Leader Robert Been lambasted some employers in the Turks and Caicos Islands for alleged mistreatment of local workers.

Taylor, citing reports of disrespect, hour-cutting, and other “suspected infractions,” issued a stern warning to employers in the territory, making it pellucid that mistreatment of locals will not be tolerated under a PDM government.

He underscored that if the PDM is returned to government at the upcoming elections, it will leave no stone unturned when it comes to standing up for Turks and Caicos Islanders. He emphasised that the party would take a proactive approach to addressing workplace grievances.

“When you bothered a Turks and Caicos Islander, we showed up at that job,” Taylor stated. “We’re

getting back to that.” He recounted instances where PDM members intervened directly at workplaces to address concerns raised by local employees.

Deputy Leader Been echoed Taylor’s sentiments, vowing to “remove the fear out of the employee and put it where it needs to be.” He hinted at potential consequences for employers who mistreat workers, including the revocation of legal status or cancellation of work permits.

“If that means revocation of a legal status or cancellation of a work permit, that will happen under this PDM administration,” Been asserted to a round of applause.

Taylor also addressed broader issues facing the islands, promising

that a PDM government would tackle the rising cost of living, reform healthcare, and prioritise good governance.

He criticised the current administration for what he characterised as “incompetence and non-performance”.

The PDM’s message resonated with many local residents who have expressed concerns about workplace conditions and the overall direction of the country. The party’s tough stance on employer accountability and its promises of meaningful change could spur support in the upcoming elections.

However, the PDM’s proposals could face opposition from business groups and employers who may argue that such stringent measures could harm the economy.

The upcoming elections could likely be a referendum on the PDM’s vision for the Turks and Caicos Islands and its commitment to protecting the rights of local workers.

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood

Chair of the Peoples Democratic Movement Mr Ezra Taylor

Deputy Leader of the PDM Mr Robert Been

Opposition blames Govt for commissioner’s resignation

– claims signs of poor health were evident before appointment

BY DELANA ISLES

As the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force flounders amid the abrupt resignation of its Commissioner, the Opposition is holding the government accountable for his appointment, citing his history of poor health.

Commissioner Martin resigned on Thursday, November 21, after being on leave for several weeks. The Governor stated that his resignation was due to “circumstances that were unavoidable and related to a personal matter requiring Mr. Martin’s urgent attention”.

However, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, argues that Martin’s resignation should have been anticipated, as he should not have been appointed to the position in the first place.

Martin served as Commissioner for seven months, a significant portion of which saw his deputies acting as the lead while he was absent.

Astwood expressed his concerns

this week, stating, “It is troubling that the Premier endorsed the recruitment of Commissioner Martin, despite being aware of his resignation from a similar position in Grenada due to serious health issues.”

He raised questions about the governing leadership’s judgment and decision-making during a period when strong, stable, and effective guidance is crucial.

“By approving Martin’s appointment, the Premier not only jeopardised the future of our police force but has also diminished the urgency needed to address the real threats facing our communities,” Astwood accused.

Reports from Grenadian media have highlighted that Martin has faced health complications, including a mild stroke he suffered on the job.

‘THE NEW TODAY,’ a Grenadian news outlet, reported that shortly after returning from a health check-up in Canada in 2019, Martin experienced a stroke and was hospitalised for approximately

Grant joins PDM

– promises action on traffic congestion and economic growth

In a powerful declaration of intent, Dr Finbar Grant announced his candidacy with the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), vowing to fight for those who have been overlooked and underserved by the current government.

Grant’s entry into the political arena signals a turning point for the residents of Electoral District 7 (Cheshire Hall, Richmond Hill, Kewtown and Glass Shack), who have long been yearning for a representative who truly understands their struggles and is committed to delivering tangible solutions.

In a passionate inaugural speech, on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, Grant, a well-known attorney in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighted the reasons for his decision to run for public office. Speaking at a press conference held at the PDM headquarters on

Providenciales, he emphasised his commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing his constituency and by extension the Turks and Caicos Islands if he is elected at the polls.

“I stand before you today with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility,” Grant declared. “It is indeed a humbling moment as I accept the nomination to run as the candidate for ED 7 in this upcoming general election.”

Grant’s speech focused on the economic uncertainties, infrastructure challenges, immigration issues, rising costs, and public safety concerns that are impacting the daily lives of residents.

He criticised the current government for its lack of action and promised to provide “real solutions” to these problems.

“We need a government that would engage with us and that will bring those solutions.”

three days.

A similar incident occurred in 2023, leading to his retirement as Commissioner in Grenada, and less than a year later, he accepted a lateral position in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Astwood stated that Martin’s resignation, while sudden, was not unexpected and raised concerns about the stability of police leadership. He emphasised a troubling trend of failure within the current government to effectively tackle the rising crime rates that threaten community safety.

“We must hold Premier Washington Misick and his government accountable. As cochair of the National Security Council, the Premier has significant responsibility for the safety and security of our islands. His leadership has failed to produce tangible results in combating crime, and this latest development further demonstrates a government out of touch with the pressing needs of the public.”

In light of the current

situation, the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) is calling for immediate action to recruit a new commissioner from within the ranks of the TCI Police Force.

They assert, “Our police force is filled with capable, dedicated officers who understand our communities and are committed to their safety. Promoting from within is not just a sensible approach; it is essential for restoring public confidence and ensuring a seamless transition in leadership.”

The party has urged the Governor to prioritise the recruitment of a local commissioner with a proven track record and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by the territory.

“Our officers are more than capable of stepping into leadership roles, and it is time we recognise their potential.”

Amid these calls from the Opposition, the leadership ranks of the Police Force are participating in a leadership retreat. On Tuesday, November 26, the Police Force’s

Public Relations department announced a two-day retreat aimed at strategising for the future of policing.

The statement read: “As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the Royal TCI Police Force the Senior Leadership Team will embark on a two-day retreat to shape the future of policing in the TCI.

“The retreat, scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, and Thursday, November 28, 2024, will provide an opportunity to critically assess our current state as a force and determine what is needed to achieve optimal success in the face of modern policing challenges.”

The PDM stated it is ready to support any initiatives aimed at restoring leadership and effectiveness to the police force.

“Our people and communities deserve better, and we must act decisively to ensure their safety and security, as the safety of our neighbourhoods cannot be compromised any longer.”

One of the key issues highlighted was traffic congestion on the Leeward Highway. He pledged to lend his support to addressing this issue by implementing “simple solutions” such as installing a traffic light or constructing a bypass road.

“The first thing that we will deal with is that traffic congestion on the Leeward Highway,” he promised.

Grant also emphasised the

need for economic growth, youth development, community safety, and infrastructure transformation. He pledged to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“I am not here for some political gain or to achieve some selfset goal,” he stated. “I am here because I have been burdened with the desires of my people.”

His speech resonated with

the audience, who responded with enthusiastic applause. His candidacy has injected new energy into the PDM, and he is seen as a strong contender in the upcoming election.

In his closing remarks, Grant called for unity and action. “Collectively, we will make a difference,” he declared. “Collectively, we will transform that community.”

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Finbar Grant announced his candidacy with the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM)

Rev Hamilton’s 35th pastoral anniversary celebrated with acts of love and appreciation

“A celebration fit for a visionary servant leader’’ is how one church member described Rev Derek Hamilton’s 35th Pastoral Anniversary celebration.

The celebration began on October 13, with 35 Acts of Love, one act of appreciation each day in the 35 days leading up to November 17 church service. These acts of love and appreciation were either from various ministries,

community groups, ministerialcolleagues, family, friends or individuals, and included some creative ways that brought lots of smiles and tears of joy to Rev Hamilton.

The mood was jubilant as the celebration culminated with a church service at his home church

Bethany Baptist in Blue Hills, under the theme ‘’Shepherding through grace and faith’’. Scores

of members, followers, ministry colleagues, family, political and corporate officials, and indeed well-wishers warmed the pews, isles and balcony overflow. The service began with a parade of Ministry flags carried by young men from what is known as a vibrant youth ministry.

There were scriptures, lustrous songs that warmed the heart led by Bethany Ensemble, and Child

Song Bird Etana Smith, whose selection of “You raise me up to stand on mountain’’, gained a standing ovation. Also included was a Praise Dance by the Youth Dancers, tribute from BEST Institute, and a video tribute from Rev. Hamilton’s sons who live abroad. His wife and ministry partner, Buela, also shared in the heart warming tributes.

Guest Speaker Rev Learoy

Campbell, of the Salem Baptist Church challenged the audience about the form and fashion of shepherding through grace and faith, and more so that shepherding must defend the faith as there is a reward of eternal consequences.

Head of the Deaconate Theo Durham in his reflections described Rev Hamilton as a Servant Leader, a man of vision that impacts lives and one who demonstrates his concern for everyone under his care. Several of his people centred existing and ongoing projects were mentioned in the reflections. It was highlighted that Rev. Hamilton not only served at Bethany over the 35 years but other churches in the TCI Baptist Union. Baptist Union retired Stalwart Rev Reuben Hall offered a prayer of blessing, while Deacon Llewlyn Handfield and President Pastor Wilbert Jennings brought congratulatory remarks on behalf of the TCI Baptist Union and the TCI Christian Council respectively.

One attendant remarked that ‘’Rev Hamilton has been such a mentor to my family, that I flew in just to attend the service’’. One youngster remarked ‘’Pastor Derek always support our youth activities, and we love him’’. An elderly member remarked ‘’Pastor Hamilton is a teacher, I learn so much from his sermons’’.

In his response Pastor Hamilton expressed profound gratitude to all for their presence and to all who have had an impact on the success of his ministry to date. The video presentation shown highlighting the 35 Acts of Love further underscored Rev Hamilton’s deep appreciation for the expressions of gratitude shown by everyone.

The attendance at the service is a testament of Rev Hamilton’s impact on the community.

Representing TCI with distinction: Raynae Myers

BY SHANICE LIGHTBOURNE

Raynae Myers, who holds the title of Miss Universe Turks and Caicos recently returned home after participating in the 73rd Miss Universe competition in Mexico City.

Her arrival was celebrated with a profound welcoming presentation at the airport where she was greeted by Minister of Tourism, Josephine Connolly, Deputy Premier, Jamell Robinson, and a vibrant performance by the Junkanoo Band.

Although Miss Myers did not place in the top 30 at the Miss Universe pageant, she was the first representative from the TCI to receive immense international training in Columbia for the Miss Universe Competition.

She was one of 40 contestants selected for a tour in Mexico, where she engaged with the press in cities such as Guadalajara. In addition to her other achievements, she won a master class for Best Makeup, earning a professional makeup set and $3,000 worth of gift packages from Miss Universe Cosmetics.

Myers expressed her goal for Miss Universe at the Beaches celebration and shares how honoured she feels to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands:

“I went to Miss Universe with a goal to make history, to leave my mark and to show the universe that Turks and Caicos is back and I believe I did just that, so once again thank you for believing in me and I hope you stay tuned for what’s next because this is not over and we’re all going to go on this journey again, it was an honour to not just represent myself but each and every one of you and my beautiful Turks and Caicos Island,” she stated.

Despite not winning, the support she received and the recognition she brought to the Turks and

Caicos through her participation in the pageant surpassed everyone’s expectations. Minister of Tourism, Hon Josephine Connolly noted this at the Beaches reception celebrating Raynae’s return:

“You’ve made us proud at a time when tourism is just booming. You know, we are trending so high here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It’s just unbelievable and I’m not making these numbers up because our department has been driven by data. We have real-time data

that help us understand what is going on in this country and with you going to Colombia, you have contributed to what is going on in our country. I want to say, I am so proud of you. The entire Turks and Caicos Islands is proud of you and you’ve seen a couple of people here tonight who have shown their love and support for you. We know you did not win, but you’re still a Queen. You are our Queen,” She stated.

Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell

Robinson expressed his gratitude to Raynae and extended his support from the government to her and her future endeavours.

“You represented the country well. You are a great ambassador for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

So we thank you, and we appreciate all that you’ve done, your reign is just beginning because this is the beginning of your one-year reign as Miss Turks and Caicos Universe.

So whatever support you need from the government yes, you will have

that, because we are behind you 100%, and we’ll do whatever we can to ensure that your reign is as successful as your Miss Universe attendance,” he stated.

Gabriela Clesca Vallejo, Pageant director for Ms Myers shared that this won’t be the last of Raynae and that we will be seeing more of her at future events.

At the end of the Beaches welcoming reception, gifts were presented by the Deputy Premier to Raynae.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Document the things and people you are thankful for

INTRODUCTION

It is this time of the year when the USA has set aside a day called Thanksgiving Day. The Turks and Caicos has also set aside a day called the National Day of Thanksgiving. During this time, I challenged us to reflect and document the things and people you are thankful for and retain that document as a daily reminder. Too many times we take things and people for granted. As you review your list of things and people, I know you will realise that you ought to be more grateful and thankful. Furthermore, the Bible tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

BE THANKFUL TO AND FOR GOD

Be thankful for God for being our protector, our deliverer and our saviour. You know had it not been for God, we would not be where we are today. Others may want to take credit but let us give credit

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.

where credit is due, and that credit belongs to God.

BE THANKFUL TO YOUR FAMILY

I know many of us experience ups and downs among our family but don’t let those fights cause you to create a distance from your family. It is the plan of the enemy to break up and destroy families. Your family is your family and that is something you cannot change. Therefore, be thankful for your spouse, children, parents, grandparents, greatgrandparents, siblings, nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Maintain communication

on a regular basis. I know many of us are so busy but don’t be too busy to forget your family.

BE THANKFUL TO YOUR FRIENDS

I do not have many friends but the few I have; I am thankful for them. Do not abuse or use your friends. There are some friends who are closer to your family. Maintain contact with your friends. Do not wait until you want or need something from them.

BE THANKFUL TO THE TEACHERS

Our teachers are so important.

They taught us how to read and write. They taught us and provided the knowledge for our careers. Some teachers are like parents to our children. Let us be thankful for our teachers.

BE THANKFUL FOR THE NURSES AND DOCTORS

I believe every family has a member who has a health issue. It is the wisdom, knowledge and experience that God has given our nurses and doctors to improve the state of our health. I am personally grateful for the nurses in the dialysis centres.

BE THANKFUL FOR TECHNOLOGY

I am forever grateful for the advancement of technology. Machines have been created as a kidney which in turn helps people to extend their lives. This is very personal for me and so I am thankful. Let us be thankful for telecommunications technology. We have the internet and through the internet, we can communicate

with our friends and family without physically going to them in person.

BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR TALENTS

I know some of you may think you do not have talent, but everybody has talent. There is something that you are very good at and love. There is no one like so be thankful.

BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR JOB AND BUSINESS

Some of you are employees and some of you are employers. Be thankful. There are many people who wish they were employed or are entrepreneurs.

CONCLUSION

Be thankful for life. It may not be the way you want it to be, but it will get better. Do not focus on the negative things in your life. In fact, if you do, then challenge yourself to transform the negative things into something positive. I believe you have a lot to be thankful for so write down 100 things you are thankful for.

A moment of pride and purpose officially announcing my candidacy

Dear editor,

This Monday, I stood alongside three remarkable individuals— Hon Jameka Williams, Hon Willin Belliard, and Ms Sharon Simons— as we were officially ratified as the four new at-large candidates for the upcoming general election under the banner of the Progressive National Party (PNP).

This is not just a personal milestone—it is a historic moment for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The recent constitutional amendments, which replaced appointed members in the House of Assembly with four elected representatives, reflect our collective commitment to strengthening democracy and empowering the voice of the people.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Progressive National Party for their confidence in me and for granting me this tremendous

opportunity.

As the current government, the PNP has demonstrated what capable, responsible leadership looks like. With 14 elected officials presently serving in this government, the PNP continues to deliver on the promises that have moved our country forward.

But we know there is still much more to do, and that is why I humbly offer myself for service as an at-large candidate.

For me, this moment is deeply personal. It is a culmination of years of preparation, guided by faith, fuelled by family, and anchored in the unwavering belief that the people of these islands deserve leaders who are accountable, compassionate, and committed to progress.

I pledge to serve with humility, embrace responsibility, and confront the challenges we face with boldness

and clarity. The voice of the people must always come first, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders remain at the centre of every decision.

To my fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders: this is not just my journey; it is ours.

Together with the PNP team of 19 candidates, I am confident that we can continue to strengthen our economy, protect our culture, and secure the bright future that our children deserve.

Let us move forward united, inspired, and determined to build on the foundation we have already laid. The spark for a brighter Turks and Caicos has been lit—together, we will fan it into a flame of lasting progress and opportunity for all.

Zhavargo Jolly At-Large Candidate, Progressive National Party

Manifestation or God: You choose

Not many people care about the “word” of the year, but some folks (not calling names) like things like this. Cambridge Dictionary claimed that “manifest” was the word of 2024.

According to Positive Psychology, #manifestation has close to 50 billion views on TikTok, more likely than not, the majority of people under the age of 30 are or have manifested. So what makes this popular, seemingly harmless trend so dangerous? Let’s begin with a definition of what manifesting is.

One psychology site defines it as “the idea that through the power of belief, we can effectively ‘think’ a goal into becoming a reality.” The aforementioned Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “the act of making something happen by imagining it and consciously thinking that it will happen.” But my favourite description says that “it is vibrating on a high frequency to become one with the universe so that you can co-create your life.”

While some may think it a harmless and necessary practice, it is, in reality, “a spiritual belief system that impacts decisionmaking, judgment, self-concept,

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.

and behaviour.” Though it is the word of the year, manifesting is a very old concept. Author Napoleon Hill said in 1937 (and in 2007) that thoughts act “like magnets”, attracting whatever and whoever we want. Further back, in 1889, the author of Thoughts Are Things said that positive thoughts attract positive outcomes, and negative thoughts attract negative outcomes. Further back, at the beginning of history, a spiritual being, in rebellion against his creator, enticed our forefathers to create their own reality and destiny, minus God. While proponents of manifesting say it is a harmless way to attract wealth and love, those who follow Jesus as Lord must critically examine this practice through the lens of scripture. For one, manifesting replaces

God with self. It does so by telling its followers that they have the power to shape their reality. In doing so, manifesters replace God as the sovereign reality and power in the universe with themselves at the centre of their world. Relying on self leads to spiritual pride and, ultimately, destruction. Secondly, manifesting is an act of idolatry. At the core of manifesting is the idea that you can attract all that your heart desires: relationships, success, and material possessions. This emphasis on material things makes things the object of our desires and worship rather than God. In manifesting, we choose to serve the created thing – universe and self – thereby making it/ them more important than the one who created everything. Thirdly, techniques used in manifesting,

such as invoking the universe or aligning with vibrations, come from New Age occultism. These terms hide a sinister reality, by practicing them, we open ourselves to spiritual deception and possession by demonic forces. The Bible tells us that Satan (adversary/accuser) masquerades as an angel of light. Any practice that bypasses God and relies on self, the universe, or energies leaves us open to spiritual attacks. Lastly, manifesting makes it appear that we have ultimate control over our lives, and we do not. To manifest our reality is to deny and refuse to submit to God’s plan for our lives. In short, manifesting leads us away from God and down a dangerous path. Scripture has a lot to say about practices like manifesting. I can’t get into all of it, but here are a

few things to consider. The Bible reminds us that God is Sovereign, not us, “it is the purposes of the Lord that will stand” (Proverbs 19:21). So rather than seek to manipulate our circumstances, we, as believers, should trust God’s perfect plan. According to Philippians 4:6, we are to make all our requests/ desires known to God. In other words, pray rather than manifest. Focus on your eternal rewards in heaven according to Matthew 6:19-20 rather than accumulating earthly, temporal riches. We are to rely on God’s provision for us according to Matthew 6:33, which says that we are to focus on God’s kingdom and righteousness as our main priorities. And lastly, we are warned in Colossians 2:8 (See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.) to be aware that we are not taken captive by errant philosophies and deceitful teachings. Manifesting is not harmless it is quite dangerous, in fact, so if you are a believer and manifesting, stop it. Instead, trust and place your confidence in God.

Don’t add me to one more WhatsApp group

Ah, WhatsApp groups—the Bermuda Triangle of productivity and peace of mind. Sure, I appreciate the good intentions behind them: keeping us “connected,” sharing laughs, and organising questionable plans. But let’s be honest: I’m at a stage in my life where I only need four contacts on my phone—my mom, my brother, Island Scoop, and my dad ( I have to squeeze the sidepiece in for the weekends too. You know who you are). If you’re not calling to offer me a plot of land in Long Bay or a stress-free meal, please, don’t bother. And what is up with the daily “Good Morning” texts and “Positive Quotes” reshaped for the entire island? Who wakes up every day thinking, “You know what this group chat needs? A motivational sunrise meme”? I’ve reached my limit. I don’t want to rant (okay, maybe I do), but here are eight other timewasting things I just can’t deal

with anymore:

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc

ENDLESS VOICE NOTES

Why send a 10-minute voice note when you could summarize it in 10 words? Are you narrating your autobiography? If I wanted to sit through this, I’d tune into a true crime podcast—at least there’s suspense. And no, I’m not speeding it up to 1.5x. Your dramatic pauses are not worth it.

“LET’S CATCH UP” TEXTS WITH NO FOLLOWTHROUGH

“Let’s catch up soon!” they say, but “soon” is like that sock you lose in the dryer—mysterious and never coming back. Speaking of which, I currently have 12 single socks waiting for their partners.

MEMES, MEMES, AND MORE MEMES

Look, I enjoy a good meme but 12 memes back-to-back at 7 AM? Take a hint when I don’t respond after the second one. And no, your forwarded “hilarious” video from 2018 doesn’t count as new material.

THE NEVER-ENDING GROUP FAREWELL

“Bye!”, “Bye, everyone!”, “Later!”

Random gif of a waving bear. Listen, just leave. There’s no need for a full-blown send off like you’re boarding the Titanic. Exit quietly, like a ninja.

OVERTHINKING TEXT REPLIES

You know it’s bad when the “typing…” bubble lasts for five minutes straight. What are you doing, writing your dissertation? If the text starts with “Hey” and ends with a novel, I’m sweating bullets wondering what I did wrong.

THREE-DAY REPLY INTERVALS

I’ll admit, I’m part of the problem here. But seriously, if you’re responding to my message three days later with “Lol,” we’re done. At that point, the conversation is

no longer late—it’s fossilised. UPDATES FROM PEOPLE I BARELY REMEMBER “John from that one bar” posting about his 33rd birthday party in Mykonos. Cute, but who are you again?

LONG TEXTS THAT FEEL LIKE NOVELS

This is not your autobiography. Keep it short and sweet. If your message is longer than 10 lines, best believe I’m only skimming it. Also, break your thoughts into sentences—no one asked for an essay.

Let’s reclaim our time and our sanity. Social media—and messaging apps—should bring us joy, not additional stress. If you need me, I’ll be muting another WhatsApp group.

Care to share your opinion? louisedens@gmail or IG david. l2

Raymond Gardiner Class of 2004 donates to the school’s music programme

It was Joan Marques who said: “It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The thrill of taking last a day. The thrill of giving lasts a lifetime”. It is with this notion in mind that the Raymond Gardiner High School (RGHS) class of 2004 thought it fitting to give back to their beloved alma mater.

On Thursday 21 November 2024, three representatives and alumni of the RGHS Class ‘04 visited the island of North Caicos to celebrate and commemorate their 20th anniversary graduation from this noble institution.

During this visit, the group presented principal, Mrs Janet Walkin, Mrs Laidlow (music teacher), and representative of the school’s music band, a donation cheque. This donation represented the collective efforts by the small

class of 15 students, many of whom were members of the school’s band and choir during their time at RGHS. Vice-principal, Mrs V Gardiner, was asked back in February what were the school’s immediate needs for the current student population of 100 students. Her response was that the school’s music program was in dire need of assistance. With a new music teacher joining the staff last year, there was renewed and reenergised efforts to shine a spotlight on the budding musical and creative talents at the RGHS – going by the name, The RGHS Elite Band. Persons can find and follow these talented students on social media performing at various community events, inter-high arts competitions, and they are doing well - with what little they have to work with.

Although not achieving their

donation target, the Class of ‘04 was able to raise and present the school a cheque for $4,250.00. These funds are earmarked for the enhancement of the school’s music program. The class representatives encouraged the students to continue to share their talents with the world, showing that RGHS in North Caicos is still producing quality, wellrounded students. Principal Walkin encouraged her students that today’s presentation should be a model for them to follow. When they leave the grounds of RGHS, they should give back to the school, and to pay it forward. She also highlighted that the class of ‘04 representatives, who are all her former students, they are leaders within their respective capacities, she is proud of them and she encouraged them to continue to make North Caicos and the RGHS proud. Current students

Integrity Commission hopes to inspire residents with “Whistle Blower” series

The Integrity Commission has launched a televised ‘Whistle Blower’ series intended to encourage residents and locals to blow their whistle and stand for what is right.

Part 1 of ‘Whistle-Blower’ seeks to shine a light on the virtues of integrity, honesty, and good faith in public life, a statement from the Commission has related.

It explores the various realities faced by TCI citizens and the public in their daily lives and encourages people to blow their whistle, speak the truth and advocate for a just and ethical society.

According to the statement, ‘Whistle-Blower’ is a fivescene collection of compelling

prose pieces that weave together fictional videos and real-life experiences to highlight the need for moral courage of individuals to stand against wrong, corruption, unfairness, and negligence in public life. Each scene captures a particular experience of the emotional, ethical, and societal dilemmas encountered by whistleblowers, emphasising the values that sustain democracy and justice.

The Commission said the series is about taking a stand and reporting and exposing wrongdoing.

They noted: “It is a call to action for everyone to embrace honesty and good faith as guiding principles. The dramatisation

in the scenes seeks to inspire locals and residents to uphold these values in their personal and professional lives, fostering a culture of accountability and fairness.”

Episode 1 called Brother Peter’s House depicts squatting and the need to report illegal settlement. This can be viewed at the link https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=RAWcq_P-Hos

“In a world clouded by misinformation and moral compromise, the courage to stand by the truth is our strongest weapon. ‘WhistleBlower’ encourages and salutes those who champion honesty and integrity, often at a great personal cost,” the Commission encouraged.

were encouraged to get more of their friends to join the music programme where they will learn life-long skills. It was indeed a historic day at RGHS as the class of ‘04 thought it fitting to make the presentation in person instead of just making a transfer. It was important for the students and their teachers to get an opportunity to see who

was investing in their program and supporting their initiatives on the green island of North Caicos. The class of ‘04 hopes that this donation presentation would encourage more former students to do what they can to support the various needs of their beloved alma mater. (Dr Brent Handfield ’04 Class Valedictorian & Former Head Boy)

Measles Alert: protect your family,

vaccination is key – MoH

Measles is on the rise again, and the government is urging residents to ensure children are up to date with their vaccinations.

The alert came by way of the Ministry of Health and Human Services this week, informing the residents that there have been recent confirmed cases of measles in the Caribbean last week. This follows two cases reported in TCI in May this year.

The MMR vaccine is the best defence against measles, mumps, and rubella, it is safe, effective, and available for free at governmentoperated Primary Healthcare Clinics.

Parents are urged to avail themselves of this facility.

Measles is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus that spreads easily between people. Symptoms typically start between 10 and 12 days after catching the infection. The signs and symptoms of measles are a high fever, runny or blocked nose, cough and red, sore, and watery eyes

Small greyish-white spots with a bluish-white centre inside the mouth, cheek, and throat may appear a few days later. A rash usually appears two to four days after the cold-like symptoms start. The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.

Measles spreads through close contact with an infected person, droplets from coughs or sneezes, and touching contaminated surfaces upon which someone has coughed or sneezed.

The disease spreads easily within households and in other places where people mix closely together. It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people close to that person who are not immune will also become infected. The period when a person is infectious and can spread the virus is within seven to 10 days of exposure but can be up to 14 days.

The ministry encourages checking vaccination records to ensure that everyone has received both doses of the MMR vaccine. If unsure, contact your healthcare provider or your local clinic immediately.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself from measles. It also protects the entire community, particularly vulnerable groups such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

While the TCI has high vaccination coverage in the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) (95%), unvaccinated persons can still acquire measles through contact with an infectious person.

(L-r) Mrs Janet Walkin (Principal), RGHS Class ‘04 Representatives: Mrs Porsha Saunders, Ms Lataraka Forbes, Dr Brent Handfield, and Mrs Laidlow (Music Teacher)

RGHS Class ‘04 Representatives along with Students of the Raymond Gardiner High School Band (The Elite Band), their Principal & Music Teacher

TCI remains a top performing premium class destination

The Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained its status as the top-performing premium class destination in the Caribbean for 2024, demonstrating significant growth in this market segment.

According to a report from Forward Keys titled ‘Travel Trends and Outlook’, TCI has seen over a 35% increase in market share, while collectively with Aruba and Puerto Rico, these destinations account for nearly 15% of all premium class arrivals.

Additionally, TCI ranks among the top destinations for growth in family travel to the Caribbean, with an 18% increase noted in the report.

In recent years, family travel

has emerged as a key driver in the growth of Caribbean tourism, with arrivals of family-sized groups (three to five passengers) to various Caribbean destinations rising by more than 11% year-to-date.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Josephine Connolly, expressed pride in the findings, emphasising that the TCI brand as a luxury destination remains robust.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands offers a luxury experience to affluent, multi-generational travellers seeking authentic, unique, safe, and exclusive experiences. Our ‘Beautiful by Nature’ multi-island destination offers all of that and more - from

TCI celebrates 16 days of activism against gender-based violence

This year, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), through the Department of Gender Affairs, will participate in the global observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against GenderBased Violence.

This movement unites individuals worldwide to raise awareness and take action against all forms of violence that disproportionately affect women and girls. The campaign will run from November 25 to December 10, 2024.

The ‘16 Days of Activism’ is a global initiative that emphasises the need to end gender-based violence, amplify the voices of survivors, and promote collective responsibility in addressing the root causes of violence.

In alignment with this international campaign, the Department of Gender Affairs will host a series of activities.

In a statement this week, the Department urged residents to participate: “We emphasise the importance of your involvement in these events, as your participation is crucial in our collective efforts to end gender-based violence.”

This year’s observance provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work still required to eliminate all forms of genderbased violence, including

Forward

Keys

‘Travel Trends and Outlook’ report

ranks TCI high in premier class destinations

domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and harassment.

The Department encourages everyone to engage in the activities and take a stand against violence in all its forms.

“Violence against women and girls is prevalent and occurs in both private and public spaces. Vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and those who are unemployed or under-employed, face increased risks of sexual violence and exploitation. Therefore, we must take a bold approach together, speak up, and act against all forms of violence directed at women and girls.”

The Department said it is committed to the protection, empowerment, and well-being of all individuals, particularly women and girls, from genderbased violence.

“Today, we stand in solidarity with the rest of the world and send a strong message: genderbased violence is a crime.

“As such, we have adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward these heinous acts, and we want to reassure you of our unwavering stance against gender-based violence. We remain steadfast in our dedication to fostering an environment of respect, equality, and justice for everyone throughout these Turks and Caicos Islands.”

our hotel partners to our taxi drivers, everyone in the tourism industry is dedicated to ensuring that our visitors enjoy a luxury experience from the moment they step off their aircraft. I am very proud of our performance this year.”

Overall, the Islands have experienced double-digit growth in air arrivals for 2024, with a 19% increase compared to 2023.

This growth is largely attributed to increased travel from the United States, with John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York emerging as the topperforming hub for Caribbean connectivity.

Airlines have added over 7% more seats to Caribbean destinations from JFK this year compared to the same period in 2023, with TCI recording a substantial 40% increase in arrivals.

According to the report, the just concluded U.S. elections, as of October 30, caused an approximate 13% drop in travel between the U.S. and the Caribbean, as many Americans would have stayed home to vote.

This decrease was reflected in the September and October arrival numbers.

Traditionally, September is a low month due to the hurricane season,

with air arrivals totalling 30,548, a decrease of 3.87% from the same period in 2023. October recorded 39,638 arrivals, representing a 4.22% decline compared to 2023. However, air arrivals are anticipated to increase during the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. In contrast, cruise passenger numbers for September and October were more promising.

In September, the Grand Turk Cruise Centre welcomed 81,297 passengers, marking a remarkable 71.99% increase compared to 2023, while October saw 110,329 passengers, reflecting a substantial 147.025% increase over the same month in 2023. (DELANA ISLES)

Postal service introduces advanced technology and customer-focused solutions

The TCI Postal Service has intensified its efforts to modernise and expand its services to meet the evolving needs of both residents and visitors.

With a range of innovative tools and customer-centred offerings, the Postal Service is bridging the gap between local and international communities, as announced in a statement from the government this week.

Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon Kyle Knowles expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing upgrades aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, emphasising that the Postal Service is an integral part of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He stated, “These advancements, particularly in our tracking and customs declaration systems, demonstrate our commitment to

leveraging technology for worldclass service. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these improved offerings.”

Enhanced services now include: International Tracking System: This allows customers to track both outbound and inbound mail globally, ensuring transparency and security for their parcels.

Customs Declaration System: Packages can now clear U.S. Customs in advance through an efficient electronic system, significantly reducing delays.

CARDIT and RESDIT System: Directly linked to American Airlines, this paperless operation ensures that all mail data entered into the Postal Service system is automatically updated in the airline’s system, facilitating seamless logistics.

Express Mail: Quick and reliable delivery options are available:

deliveries to the United States take two days at a cost of $20, to Canada and the United Kingdom it takes two to five days at $30, and for Caribbean destinations, it takes 7 days at $25.

Additional services include trackable mail options such as Registered Mail and Express Mail, which can now be tracked to their destination through an optional paid tracking service. Affordable mailbox rental options are available, ranging from $40 to $130 annually. A souvenir shop located at the Grand Turk Post Office offers unique keepsakes like keyrings, pins, cups, T-shirts, hats, bags, and postcards.

The Postal Service is also dedicated to supporting the community by providing reliable and affordable solutions for communication, logistics, and retail needs.

Regional News

Bahamas: ‘Politician paid $2m in cocaine scheme’

A senior police officer has alleged that an unnamed high-ranking Bahamian politician authorised the help and involvement of Bahamian law enforcement officials in a scheme to facilitate cocaine shipments from The Bahamas to the United States for $2m, according to a stunning United States federal indictment released yesterday that includes some of the most severe allegations of official corruption since the drug era of the 80s.

The United States District Court Southern District of New York has alleged that drug traffickers have smuggled tons of cocaine through The Bahamas into the United States since 2021 with the “support and protection of corrupt Bahamian government officials, including high-ranking members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force.”

The Tribune obtained the indictment after police

Commissioner Clayton Fernander revealed in a press statement last night that two senior law enforcement officers were arrested in Florida yesterday on drug and firearm charges. The officers, Chief Superintendent of Police Elvis Curtis, the officer in charge of aviation, and Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker, a defence force officer, will be transported to federal courts in New York for trial on charges of conspiracy to import cocaine, possession and use of firearms, and firearms conspiracy.

Commissioner Fernander also said Sergeant Prince Albert Symonette, a force pensioner, has been named in the indictment and will be suspended from duty

effective immediately.

The matter is the latest case that will heighten scrutiny on the country’s top leadership of law enforcement.

American prosecutors say corrupt police officials “provided sensitive law enforcement information to drug traffickers, protected them from investigation and arrest, and helped them with the logistics of moving massive shipments of cocaine through The Bahamas en route to distribution in the United States.”

“Corrupt RBPF officials have, for example, provided warnings to cocaine traffickers when the Drug Enforcement Administration was carrying out operations in The Bahamas so that traffickers could protect their cocaine shipments

from interdiction and themselves from investigation and arrest,” the indictment says.

“These corrupt RBPF and Bahamian government officials support the drug trade into the United States at every turn — from the airports, airstrips, and ports in the island chain that serve as points of entry for the cocaine shipments into The Bahamas, and onto maritime vessels that are then used to transmit the cocaine through shipping routes from the northernmost points of The Bahamas and into the United States.”

The indictment accuses some RBPF officials of exploiting the force’s longstanding involvement in Operation Bahamas Turks and Caicos (OPBAT), a critical drug-

fighting programme, of allowing drug trafficking to flourish.

RBPF officials are accused of denying DEA officials access to seized cocaine and related evidence, provided information contradicted by aerial surveillance and, “on at least one occasion, informed a DEA agent that certain drug-trafficking targets were ‘offlimits.’”

The indictment identifies several people who either allegedly used their power for corrupt purposes, were drug traffickers, or facilitated drug trafficking through their professional services like charter flights. These include CSP Curtis, Sgt Symonette, Mr Roker, Riccardo Davis, a Bahamian government official, William Simeon, Theodore Adderley, Joshua Scavella, Lorielmo SteelePomare, Luis Fernando OrozcoToro, Davon Rolle, Darren Ferguson, Domonick Delancy and Donald Ferguson.

Officials say the drugs to The Bahamas primarily originated in Colombia and Venezuela and were received at remote airstrips and larger airports under the supervision of corrupt police officials who accepted bribes.

CSP Curtis and SGT Symonette allegedly received a $10,000 cash bribe on October 18, 2023, as a down payment for helping with a future 600-kilogram cocaine shipment through the Lynden Pindling International Airport to the United States.

Explaining how the scheme worked, prosecutors said RBDF Officer Roker used his access to maritime routes and ports. On November 6, 2024, he allegedly

explained to drug traffickers that he could give them information on the location of US Coast Guard and RBDF vessels and provide advanced warning of potential interdiction efforts.

CSP Curtis and SGT Symonette allegedly “engaged in extensive discussions regarding the use of their official positions to transport bulk money — from Florida to The Bahamas, including by Bahamian government or military aircraft, in exchange for an approximately ten percent commission,” the indictment alleges.

“Curtis, Symonette and Riccardo Adolphus Davis, the defendant, planned a trip to the United States to receive approximately $1.5m in US currency, which would represent an advanced payment on an agreed-upon at least approximately 500-kilogram load of cocaine to be imported through The Bahamas into the United States.”

The indictment comes as The Bahamas continues to grapple with a gun violence crisis. A recent US report revealed that 85 percent of firearms recovered in The Bahamas between 2018 and 2022 were traced to retail buyers in the United States, the highest proportion among Caribbean countries.

The arrests also come during a period of heightened scrutiny of the police force’s top brass. Over the summer, leaked voice notes involving a senior police officer in dealings with gang members prompted an ongoing FBI-assisted investigation, with the head of the Criminal Investigation Division, Michael Johnson, placed on garden leave. (Tribune242)

Haiti’s sexual violence survivors face dwindling support, report warns

Survivors of sexual violence in Haiti face worsening risks and dwindling support amid the growing influence of armed gangs, a collapsed healthcare system and a frozen justice system, a report warned this week.

Nearly 4,000 women and girls reported being victims of sexual violence in the first 10 months of 2024, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in the report, noting that many people do not report due to fear of retaliation and poor prospects of receiving help.

Those who do seek care often cannot do so within the critical 72-hour window to access drugs to treat HIV exposure or emergency contraception, the report said, as many cannot afford private healthcare and as public clinics shut down due to violence.

In October, the U.N. warned that just 24% of health facilities were operating in Port-au-Prince’s metropolitan area. This month Doctors Without Borders, a major free healthcare provider, halted operations, citing rape and death threats from police.

Haitian feminist organization Neges Mawon said it has this year received reports of some 230 rapes in just two neighborhoods outside the capital, and four pregnant women died due to poor healthcare and blocked medical supplies.

Abortion is illegal in Haiti.

A 25-year-old mother of four told HRW that she was raped by four men in Port-au-Prince’s Cite Soleil area while looking for water.

“Now they do whatever they want to all of us,” she said. “I couldn’t go to the doctor. I didn’t

have money.” In a separate report released on Monday, the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized

Crime (GITOC) said outgunned police, a “woefully” underresourced international mission, political infighting and violent

vigilantism are aggravating Haiti’s general crisis.

“It is difficult to identify any meaningful inroads on the part of law enforcement,” it said, adding that the transitional presidential council’s recent ouster of the prime minister resulted in the council’s “reigning over a mountain of ashes.”

The prime minister’s replacement saw the two women who previously held senior cabinet positions –foreign affairs and economy –removed from their posts.

“More than 150 feminist and human rights groups have endorsed an action plan to ensure the full participation of women,” said Neges Mawon on X. “It is clear fighting violence against women and girls is not a priority for this government.” (Reuters)

Chief Supt Elvis Curtis

Nearly 4,000 women and girls in Haiti reported being victims of sexual violence in the first 10 months of 2024

Regional News

Cayman: Work-permit numbers continue relentless climb

The number of work-permit holders in the Cayman Islands reached another record last month when the figure climbed to a new high of 37,678 permits in effect. The news comes as the minority UPM government still hopes to bring amendments to immigration legislation before the end of this parliament. Whether the proposed bill makes it through before the next election remains to be seen and given the probable controversies its more likely the UPM will join the long list of governments that have promised but failed to address Cayman’s complex and defective immigration system.

The latest number was revealed in a regular FOI request made by the local law firm HSM Chambers. It is also some 4000 more permit holders than the figure reported in the latest Labour Force Survey which was published last month as just 33,573.

With the workforce growing continually as a result of permit holders the impact on the

population and strain on local infrastructure is now becoming a significant problem and likely to be a critical issue during the election campaign.

Appearing on Radio Cayman last week, Kenneth Bryan said that the immigration reform that government wants to steer through before parliament is prorogued only deals with the issue relating

Hurricane Beryl wreaked $32b damage, sent Jamaican economy into decline

Hurricane Beryl cost Jamaica $32 billion and sent the economy into decline, according to the Planning Institute of Jamaica.

The Jamaican economy contracted by 2.8 per cent in the July-September 2024 quarter, while the outlook for the December quarter remains cloudy. PIOJ said agriculture and mining bore the brunt of the damage.

The state agency projects that the economy may contract further by 1.5 per cent for the final quarter of 2024.

As the ongoing impact of Hurricane Beryl continues to reverberate across multiple sectors, the economy is anticipated to “contract for the remainder of this calendar and fiscal year,” said PIOJ Director General Dr Wayne Henry in his quarterly briefing on the economy on Wednesday.

The storm swiped Jamaica in early July, wreaking damage equivalent to 1.1 per cent of the $2.9-trillion economy.

Agriculture, mining, tourism, and infrastructure services experienced the greatest impact. “The cost of damage associated

with the passage of Hurricane Beryl was estimated at $32.2 billion or 1.1 per cent of gross domestic product,” said Henry.

Encapsulated in the figure is $15.9 billion of damage to general infrastructure, $10.3 billion to transportation infrastructure, and $4.1 billion to the electricity grid.

“Looking ahead, all industries, with the exception of agriculture, construction, hotels and restaurants, and other services are expected to record growth in the short term. For agriculture, it is anticipated that the industry will return to a growth path in the new fiscal year in 2025/26,” said Henry.

Regarding the September quarter, the goods-producing industry, which includes agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, declined 6.5 per cent, with the agriculture sector experiencing the most severe impact.

“Thirteen of the fourteen parishes recorded a decline in domestic crop production, with agriculture contracting by 13.5 per cent,” Henry explained, while highlighting the widespread destruction caused by the

to permutant residents and the road to Caymanian status. But he said the government needs to reform the work-permit side of the equation as well because that is where the infrastructure strain is. He said Caymanians are keen to see the number of people making it to status reduced dramatically, or stopped altogether. But the problems society is now

experiencing such as the traffic nightmare, school placement shortages, a straining hospital and the housing crisis are all related to the number of people here at any time regardless of whether the are Caymanian, permanent residents or permit holders.

According to the latest figures the largest number of permit holders by far come from Jamaica

which has been the case since the system began for obvious reasons. However, over the last 20 years the number of people from the Philippines on permits has increased significantly and stood at 6,678 last month. While the number of Jamaicans coming to Cayman on permits is beginning to fall the number from the Philippines is still climbing. The third biggest nationality is now Indian with 2,133 permit holders, the British are at number four with 2,076 while people from Nepal round out the top five with 1,399. It is currently taking around twelve weeks for a new permit to be approved or for a renewal. Meanwhile, the pace of applications to the Caymanian Status and Permanent Residency board has picked up with applications for the right to be Caymanian taking 6 months or less while point based PR applications are now taking a year. During the month of October alone the Board determined 336 Right to be Caymanian applications. (CNS)

hurricane.

In addition to the agricultural losses, the mining industry contracted 15 per cent, with alumina and bauxite production affected by damage to port infrastructure.

The damage to alumina producer Jamalco’s Rocky Point port “necessitated the diversion of alumina exports to an alternative port as well as tempered production,” said the PIOJ head.

The services industry also struggled during the quarter, contracting by 1.2 per cent. The most notable decline was in the hotels and restaurants sector, which faced a reduction in foreign visitor arrivals following

travel advisories. The hotels and restaurants industry saw a decline of 2.1 per cent, largely due to a fall in visitor numbers and flight cancellations, Henry noted.

Despite these setbacks, some sectors demonstrated resilience.

The finance and insurance services industry posted a modest 1.0 per cent growth, driven by higher revenue at banking institutions.

Over the nine-month horizon, January to September 2024, the planning agency estimated that the Jamaican economy shrank by 0.4 per cent.

The short-term economic outlook remains challenging, PIOJ noted. However, there

are expectations for a recovery in specific sectors in 2025. Agriculture, for instance, should return to growth in the new fiscal year, once recovery efforts take hold, Henry said.

The PIOJ also addressed the wider implications of these economic difficulties, with a focus on the government’s long-term economic development strategy. As the country grapples with the challenges of natural disasters and global economic pressures, the PIOJ emphasised the importance of structural reforms and investment in key areas like human capital development and digital infrastructure. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Work-permit holders in the Cayman Islands have surpassed 37,500

Inside the roofless section of the Bull Savannah Primary School in St Elizabeth, two months after it was blown off during the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 3, 2024

Bomb threats made against Trump cabinet nominees

Several of Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees and picks for his White House team have been targeted by bomb threats.

The FBI said it was aware of “numerous bomb threats” as well as “swatting incidents”, in which hoax calls are made to attract a police response to the target’s home.

Threats were made against at least nine people chosen by Trump to lead the Departments of Defence, Housing, Agriculture and Labor, as well as his pick for US ambassador to the United Nations, among others.

Police are investigating the incidents, which happened on Tuesday night and Wednesday.

Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for Trump’s transition team, said the Trump appointees “were targeted in violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them”.

She said “law enforcement acted quickly to ensure” the nominees’ safety.

“With President Trump as our example, dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us,” she said.

Neither Leavitt nor the FBI identified any of the targets by name.

New York Republican Elise Stefanik, who Trump has named to be the US ambassador to the United Nations, was the first to say

Lori Chavez-Deremer, Lee Zeldin and Elise Stefanik were among those threatened

her family home had been targeted by a bomb threat.

Her office said the congresswoman was informed of the threat while she was driving with her husband and three-yearold son from Washington DC to New York for Thanksgiving.

Defence secretary nominee Pete Hegseth later confirmed that he was also targeted.

On X, he said that a police officer had shown up at his home on Wednesday morning, as his seven children were sleeping inside to notify him they had received “a credible pipe bomb threat”.

“I will not be bullied or intimidated. Never,” he wrote. “President Trump has called on me

to serve - and that is what I intend to do.”

Trump, who survived two assassination attempts during his campaign, was not among those who received the hoax calls, law enforcement sources told US media.

He has received genuine threats recently, according to officials in Arizona who arrested a man earlier this week for posting videos on a “near-daily basis” in which he threatened to kill Trump and his family.

None of those targeted this week were protected by the US Secret Service, according to media reports.

Lee Zeldin, who Trump has

nominated to become administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, also confirmed he was targeted, saying a “pipe bomb threat” was sent to his home with a “pro-Palestinian themed message”.

“My family and I were not home at the time and are safe,” he said.

“We are thankful for the swift actions taken by local officers.”

Brooke Rollins, Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Agriculture, posted on X to thank police in Fort Worth, Texas, for their “swift efforts” to investigate a threat to her family on Wednesday morning.

“We were unharmed and quickly returned home,” she wrote.

Scott Turner, Trump’s pick for Department of Housing, and Lori Chavez-Deremer, his pick for Labour Secretary, also posted on social media that they had been targeted. They each vowed that they would not be deterred by the threats.

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incidents, the White House said in a statement.

“The White House is in touch with federal law enforcement and the President-elect’s team, and continues to monitor the situation closely.”

US Capitol Police, which protects Congress, said in the statement that it was working with federal law enforcement agencies on any “swatting”, but declined

to provide further details “to minimise the risk of copy-cats”.

Florida Republican Matt Gaetz, who recently dropped out of the running to become US attorney general, was also targeted.

The sheriff’s office in Florida’s Okaloosa County confirmed that a bomb threat targeted an address in the town of Niceville.

The home’s mailbox was cleared and no devices were located, police said, and a search of the area did not uncover anything.

New York police told the BBC’s US partner CBS News that the New York home of Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, was also threatened.

Pam Bondi, who was selected to replace Gaetz as Trump’s nominee, was also targeted along with incoming White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, according to CBS.

Fox News reports that John Ratcliffe, Trump’s nominee to be director of the CIA, also received threats.

Similar hoax tactics have been recently used against other highprofile political figures, including against the judges and prosecutors who oversaw the criminal cases against Trump.

Last year, US politicians around the country were swatted over Christmas. Most were Republican, but some Democrats were targeted as well. (BBC)

Lammy plays down criticism of Chagos Islands deal

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has played down criticism from the new Mauritian prime minister and the incoming Trump administration of a deal to cede control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.

Under the agreement, which has still to be signd, the UK would relinquish sovereignty over the archipelago but maintain a 99-year lease over Diego Garcia, home to a major UK-US military airbase.

Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, elected two weeks ago, has voiced severe doubts over the agreement.

Reform UK leader and Trump ally Nigel Farage told BBC Newsnight it would damage Sir Keir Starmer’s relations with the US president-elect.

The deal is still subject to the finalisation of a treaty.

Lammy told the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee it was a “good deal” and that it addressed US concerns about the future of the

military base on Diego Garcia.

“I’m very, very confident that this is a deal that the Mauritians will see, in a cross-party sense, as a good deal for them,” Lammy said.

Ramgoolam expressed doubts about the agreement after meeting Jonathan Powell, the UK’s national security adviser, on Monday.

Marco Rubio, Trump’s pick for secretary of state, said in October that the deal posed a “serious threat” to US national security by giving the islands to a country allied with China.

Lammy said: “This is incredibly sad. I know and I’m sad that there’s been so much politicking about this.”

He said the agreement was a “very good deal” for “our national security” because it secured the legal basis of the Diego Garcia military base.

“I’m really reassured about that, and I think an incoming [US] administration will be reassured about that, and I’m confident that

Garcia is home

the Mauritians are still sure about that, despite politicking that we all know goes on,” Lammy added. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Farage said the incoming Trump government was “horrified” by the prospect of the deal the UK government had struck “because

they know China has extraordinary naval ambitions”.

If the treaty were signed, he added, it would “be a terrible mistake, it would damage very badly our relationship not just with Donald Trump but with America as a whole and make getting any deal

on tariffs that much harder”.

Discussing the agreement in the context of current global tensions, Times columnist Matthew Syed told Newsnight: “I think we’re moving closer, potentially, to a major war between the big powers.

“We have proxy wars happening in Europe and in the Middle East and there could be a blockade by China on Taiwan. Military leaders say this is a strategically absolutely crucial part of the world and China’s leading an ever more cohesive axis including Iran, Russia and North Korea.”

Europe, he argued, had been “free-riding” on US defence spending. “We have to be realistic that in that context, with our denuded defence capacity, it is absolutely crucial that we stand with America.”

Details of the treaty’s legal text are being worked out and it is expected to go before Parliament for scrutiny next year. (BBC)

Diego

to a joint UK-US military base

Officer who Tasered 95-yearold guilty of manslaughter

A police officer who Tasered a 95-year-old woman with dementia symptoms at an Australian care home has been found guilty of her manslaughter.

Kristian White, 34, used his weapon on Clare Nowland after the great-grandmother was found wandering with a small kitchen knife in the early hours of 17 May 2023.

Her death a week later caused public outcry, but White - a senior constable - argued at trial that his use of force was reasonable and proportionate to the threat.

Prosecutors, however, said Mrs Nowland - who relied on a walker to get around and weighed under 48kg (105lb) - was not a danger and that the “impatient” officer had neglected his duty of care to her.

Police and paramedics were

‘No-one

called to Yallambee Lodge - in the town of Cooma about 114km (71 miles) south of Canberra – around 04:00 on the day of the incident, after Mrs Nowland had been seen roaming the care home with two serrated steak knives.

The trial in the New South Wales (NSW) Supreme Court heard that Mrs Nowland, while not formally diagnosed with dementia, had been displaying signs of cognitive decline in the months leading up to her death and had at times behaved aggressively towards healthcare workers.

At one point that night she had entered the room of another resident holding the knives, though he told the court he did not feel unsafe, and she had also later thrown one of the blades at a staff member.

Teen with cancer who inspired Kate dies

A teenage photographer who inspired Catherine, Princess of Wales, after pursuing a photography bucket list while facing a rare form of cancer, has died.

Liz Hatton, 17, from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, died in the early hours of Wednesday morning, her mother Vicky Robayna announced on social media.

On X, formerly Twitter, Ms Robayna said that Liz had “remained determined to the last” and was still making plans for her future on Tuesday.

“We are so very proud of the kindness, empathy and courage she has shown in the last year,” she wrote.

Liz began a photography bucket list appeal in January after being

diagnosed with an aggressive desmoplastic small round cell tumour and was given between six months and three years to live.

She was pictured being hugged by Catherine at Windsor Castle in October after being invited to take pictures of the Prince of Wales at an investiture.

Catherine, who herself was treated for cancer this year, and William, in a personal message, described Liz as a “talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both”

Ms Robayna said on X that Liz “was not only a phenomenal photographer, she was the best human and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever have asked for”.

“No-one could have fought harder for life than she did,” she said.

“There is a gaping Liz-shaped hole in our lives that I am not sure how we will ever fill.”

Ms Robayna offered her thanks to those who helped the teenager fulfil her dreams in her final months and those who liked and supported her work, adding: “You ensured Liz’s last two months were her very best. She flew high until the end.”

She asked people to share one of Liz’s photos in tribute and also to support the family’s mission to fund research into desmoplastic small round cell Tumour, which has no charity specialising in the disease in the UK.

will win’ - Canada, Mexico and China respond to Trump tariff threats

Officials from Canada, Mexico and China have warned US President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to impose sweeping tariffs on America’s three largest trading partners could upend the economies of all four countries.

“To one tariff will follow another in response and so on, until we put our common businesses at risk,” Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said.

Trump vowed on Monday night to introduce 25% tariffs on goods coming from Mexico and Canada and an additional 10% on goods coming from China. He said the duties were a bid to clamp down on drugs and illegal immigration.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he spoke to Trump in the hours after the announcement and planned to hold a meeting with Canada’s provincial leaders to discuss a response.

A spokesman for China’s embassy in Washington DC told the BBC: “No-one will win a trade

President-elect Donald Trump and Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

war or a tariff war.”

The international pushback came a day after Trump announced his plans for his first day in office, on 20 January, in a post on his social media website, Truth Social.

Trudeau said his country was prepared to work with the US in “constructive ways”.

“This is a relationship that we know takes a certain amount of working on, and that’s what we’ll do,” Trudeau told reporters. In a phone call with Trump, Trudeau said the pair discussed trade and border security, with the prime minister pointing out that the number of migrants crossing the

Canadian border was much smaller compared with the US-Mexico border.

Trump’s team declined to confirm the phone call.

But Trump spokesman Steven Cheung added that world leaders had sought to “develop stronger relationships” with Trump “because he represents global peace and stability”.

Mexico’s President Sheinbaum told reporters on Tuesday that neither threats nor tariffs would solve the “migration phenomenon” or drug consumption in the US.

Reading from a letter that she said she would send to Trump, Sheinbaum also warned that Mexico would retaliate by imposing its own taxes on US imports, which would “put common enterprises at risk”.

She said Mexico had taken steps to tackle illegal migration into the US and that “caravans of migrants no longer reach the border”.

The issue of drugs, she added,

“is a problem of public health and consumption in your country’s society”.

Sheinbaum, who took office last month, noted that US car manufacturers produce some of their parts in Mexico and Canada.

“If tariffs go up, who will it hurt? General Motors,” she said.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for China’s embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, told the BBC that “China-US economic and trade cooperation is mutually beneficial in nature”.

He denied that China allows chemicals used in the manufacture of illegal drugs - including fentanyl - to be smuggled to the US.

“China has responded to US request for verifying clues on certain cases and taken action,” Liu said.

“All these prove that the idea of China knowingly allowing fentanyl precursors to flow into the United States runs completely counter to facts and reality.”

Clare Nowland died of her injuries a week after being Tasered

Liz and her family saw the Prince and Princess of Wales at a private meeting

LABOURER

3 LABOURERS CLEANER

JANITOR

DISHWASHER

CLEANER

DOMESTIC WORKER

JOB VACANCY

Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences at Grace Bay is a luxury boutique hotel nestled along the shore of the world’s number one beach Grace Bay. We are seeking determined and energetic professionals who provide discreet yet personalized and attentive service that well defines the Andaz Turks and Caicos experience.

MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING COORDINATOR

The MEP Coordinator’s main responsibility is to lead the effort in coordinating, scheduling and managing the mechanical, electrical, Fire, BAS and plumbing design and construction issues from preconstruction through construction to ensure the successful completion of Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences quality standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Take overall responsibility for the performance and quality control of all MEP trades. This includes but is not limited to the following scope of work: Mechanical, Plumbing, Ductwork, Sprinklers, Building Controls, Electrical, Generator, Fire Alarm, Tele/Data, AV, Security, CCTV, Electronic door Locks, Site Utilities including STP and Fire Protection.

• Implement and manage Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences MEP coordination process to resolve all conflicts prior to start.

• Assist the Project Manage as necessary in estimating change orders.

• Evaluate the complexity of the mechanical/electrical design and estimate both the construction cost and maintenance.

• Ensure the constructability of the design and compatibility with local building codes and the end user’s requirements.

• Outline work to be performed by the mechanical and electrical subcontractors, phasing work, problem encountered in scheduling, quality of work, etc.

• Check all underground piping as it is being installed and ensure all heavy pipe and other mechanical equipment is in place before walls are poured.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering with minimum 8 years’ experience

• Must has strong grasp of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, Fire protection and low-voltage systems

• General understanding of Building Codes, Mechanical Codes, Electrical Codes and Plumbing Codes as they relate to construction of project

• Previous client-side role for the design, construction and handover of top brand hotels

• A full understanding of a top brand hotels specification and requirements, including the running and maintenance required, including developing the O and M manuals and maintenance schedule.

• Previous experience in the interface of the BAS and PMS for a major hotel.

• Had previous experience in the production of commissioning programs and procedures, including the demonstration of all MEP services to the end user and local authorities for major hotels.

Salary: $80k to $100k per annum based on qualifications and experience.

VACANCY NOTICE INTEGRITY COMMISSION CONSULTANT ACCOUNTANT

PURPOSE AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

To provide confidential and efficient consultant accountancy service to the Integrity Commission

REPORTING TO

The Deputy Director of the Integrity Commission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:

The functions and responsibilities of the Consultant Accountant are to prepare for the Commission:

• monthly bank reconciliations

• monthly actuals to budget expenditure for all operational activities managed by the Commission

• quarterly Expenditure Reports and accompanying reconciliations for submission to TCIG.

THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT WILL ALSO BE EXPECTED TO:

• Liase regularly with the Secretarial staff on Commission Quickbooks postings

• Liase with the Budget Office and Ministry of Finance as necessary.

• Maintain a Fixed Asset Register in coordination with the IT Manager.

PAYMENT:

Payment for the Consultant Accountant shall be in the amount of US$24,000.00 to be paid over the 12 month period, in monthly installments of $2,000, payable on the 30th of each month.

The deadline for submission of applications is the 7th December 2024, with a view to commencing work by the latest 1st February 2024.

Belongers only need apply.

Please note that only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Applicants who had previously applied for this post need not apply for it again.

TCI’s talent on display at Art Walk

BY SHANICE LIGHTBOURNE

The third edition of the Art Walk held at The Agency exhibited the intricate brush strokes, the creative expressions and the artistic creation in the TCI.

The event, which took place on November 19, showcased a live painting by Lucie Stubbs and the launching of the United Way’s book at its book drive, themed “Yes I can Read”.

The Art Walk still had at its core, local artists’ talent, like Hezron Henry and Lucie Stubbs presented to residents and visitors alike while supporting local businesses in the area.

Hezron Henry, an artist at the Art Walk, based in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is of Indo/Afro Caribbean descent. His work explores this cultural concept, which is prominently highlighted in his art.

Lucie Stubbs a talented artist from the Turks and Caicos Islands beautifully captured the essence of

ENTERTAINMENT

the TCI in her artwork. Her pieces reflect the vibrant beach scenery and the colourful seashells found in the region, showcasing the unique charm of the TCI.

Sean O’Neill from The Agency explained how the Art Walk was formed and the opportunities artists have gained from participating in the event:

“I actually had a friend of mine in Bozeman, Montana who did one about a year ago. I thought it was a great idea and a great opportunity. We used to have these back years ago, and they’ve kind of fallen away, so I saw a great opportunity to bring other people in here and again, also particularly to give an opportunity to artists who don’t have their own galleries to be able to come in and showcase it.

I know a few of the artists that we’ve showcased already have had custom pieces commissioned just from being at the Art Walk, so it’s a great opportunity for them to get visibility and to enhance their business as well.”

Claudine Ewing, the CEO of United Way, said that the book drive was geared to promote literacy.

“The book drive came about because United Way has started its ‘Yes I Can Read’ programme. We are now in our second year. So the ‘Yes I Can Read’ is an intervention programme for children that completely don’t know how to read. From ABCs to sounding words, and we have children between the ages of 7 to 12 that are in our programme that are not reading and so for the past year, we’ve had some success stories from some of those children, we had a total of 97 students in the programme, and we have lots of success stories from that,” she stated.

Beyoncé named greatest pop star of the 21st Century

The music world has been buzzing following Billboard‘s release of its ’25 Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century’ list, with Beyoncé securing the top spot. This announcement has sparked heated debates between her fans, the Beyhive, and the devoted Swifties of Taylor Swift.

This recognition is hardly surprising given Beyoncé‘s unparalleled achievements in the music industry. She holds the record for the most Grammy nominations of all time, with 99 in total, and is also the most-awarded artist in Grammy history.

The list caused a stir on Tuesday

when Swift was ranked Number two. Swift’s ranking comes after a remarkable year, highlighted by her Eras Tour, which became the highest-grossing tour in history, earning over $1 billion. Forbes also recognised her as the wealthiest female musician of 2023, with a net worth of $1.6 billion, making her

She also explained the importance of the book drive and why it is needed.

“When we opened school this year, we realised that some of the kids that can read now, that were in the programme last year, we no longer have materials for them to read, because all of our materials were intervention reading materials, teaching them how to. Now they want to delve into books. They want stories. They want the fairy tales. They want to read and we don’t have those books and then we find, especially at the Thelma Lightbourne School, we find that the reading room is now so interesting that children that are not a part of the programme, they are now coming

into the reading room at lunchtime looking for books, and looking for volunteers, looking for people to read to.

“So it’s on a high at Thelma Lightbourne, and we’re looking around the room and saying, but these books are too easy for you and so our volunteer, who is Sean’s wife, that’s how we got here, decided that, hey, we should have a book drive”.

Success Stories of the book drive will be told at the gala on December 3 at the Shore Club and book donations can be made at The Agency, Gourmet, the main IGA, The Two Unicorn Bookstores, Leeward Security Gate, The Provo Primary School, and also the International School.

Beyonce is the most-awarded artist in Grammy history

the first artist to reach billionaire status through music and touring alone.

Billboard praised Swift for her ability to “gravitationally bend culture to her will” and for her transformation from country star to one of the most iconic pop stars ever. She ranked ahead of Rihanna (No. 3), Drake (No. 4), Lady Gaga (No. 5), Britney Spears (No. 6), Kanye West (No. 7), Justin Bieber (No. 8), Ariana Grande (No. 9), and Adele (No. 10).

LABOURER

BLOCK & PARCEL 60809/223 WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY 0.704 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED AT THE BIGHT & THOMAS STUBB, PROVIDENCIALES.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

BABYSITTER

Vele Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Is looking

DOMESTIC WORKER

HOUSEKEEPER

KARAM & MISSICK ATTORNEYS

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Assisting litigation attorneys with trial preparation, drafting of pleadings, Legal research in different areas such as commercial litigation, corporate law conveyancing mortgages, Letters of Administration.

• Pre-trial preparation, preparing trial Bundles, analyzing records for trials, updating respective banks, liaising with search companies.

• Drafting of Conveyances, Mortgages, Contracts, shareholders agreements, Operating Agreements, Corporate Resolutions. Preparation of Probate and Letters of Administration documentation

• Assisting MLRO/MLCO with implementation of risk-based AML/CFT procedures and client onboarding (KYC).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS,

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Candidate should hold a law degree from a recognized University.

• Candidate must be computer proficient in office software such as, MS Office and Excel.

• Candidate must be experienced and qualified in Governance, Risk and Compliance.

• Must be able to communicate efficiently with clients.

EXPERIENCE

• Must have previous experience as a Paralegal (at least 5 years) with references.

• Experience in managing and operating a law firm dealing with litigation in the areas of: commercial, probate, conveyancing, company, employment, finance.

• Must be trained in and be able to manage and mitigate against AML/CTF risks.

• Experience in Supreme Court and labour tribunal filing procedures.

• Must have experience in company matters.

• Must be able to multitask and complete assigned task with alacrity.

• Must be a team player and be willing and able to take guidance.

• Must be able to take initiative and work independently.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Salary commensurate of skills, qualification and experience. Support for professional development will also be offered. Closing date for applicants January 20, 2025

Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd. Of Cherokee Rd, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

PARCEL 10201/50 NORTH WEST SUBURBS, GRAND TURK, TCI

– Two-bedroom, two-bathroom house approximately 1500 sq. ft located in North West Suburbs, Grand Turk

Registered Proprietor: Keran Toussaint

PARCEL 60702/259 CHESHIRE HALL & RICHMOND HILL, PROVIDENCIALES, TCI

– Six-bedroom, four- bathroom house approximately 2540 sq. ft located in Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Ian Astwood

The auction will be held at the office of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, 88 Cherokee Road, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Monday, the 25th day of November 2024.

A reserved price will be fixed on all parcels and a deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted

DOMESTIC WORKER

TAILOR

CLEANER

JOB VACANCY

FURNITURE PROJECT MANAGER

The Furniture Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and installation of furniture on the construction site. This role ensures that all furniture is installed according to project specifications, timelines, and quality standards. The manager will work closely with contractors, suppliers, and other project stakeholders to ensure seamless execution, while also managing the budget, timelines, and workforce involved in the installation process.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

WC SECURITY SERVICES

SECURITY OFFICERS

SALARY $9:00 PER HOUR

Responsibilities: Maintain a safe and secure environment for customers and clients. Conduct patrols, deter potential threats, monitor activities, and safeguard properties and business establishments. Possess strong surveillance skills and the ability to address threats effectively. Demonstrate excellent judgment, objectivity, and dependability. Handle conflicts professionally and with integrity. Ensure safety management and uphold professionalism in all duties. provide clear and accurate reporting. Knowledge of CCTV systems and security alarms is highly desirable.

SECURITY SUPERVISOR

SALARY

$9.45 PER HOUR

R ESPONSIBILITIES:

Set performance goals and deadlines aligned with the company’s plans and vision. Organize workflows and ensure employees understand their responsibilities and delegated tasks. Monitor employee productivity and provide constructive feedback and coaching to support improvement.

REQUIRED:

Experience in providing advice and resolving critical situations. An understanding of basic police and other Emergency Services procedures. Willingness to commit to further training. The ability to operate surveillance equipment, including cameras, camcorders, and CCTV systems is desirable. Preferably Former police/military, or with longer security experience and with TCI driver’s license.

TRAINER/TRAINING OFFICER

SALARY FROM $3 ,000.00

R ESPONSIBILITIES:

Identify, develop, facilitate, and monitor training activities within the company. Assess training needs and design internal programs or coordinate with external providers to meet those needs. Facilitate learning sessions, provide constructive feedback, and monitor training outcomes to ensure effectiveness. Key qualifications include strong research and planning skills, excellent communication and presentation abilities, coaching expertise, teamwork, and problem-solving capabilities. Flexibility, multidisciplinary knowledge, and a comprehensive understanding

all aspects

advantageous.

• Develop and manage installation schedules for all furniture-related activities on the construction site.

• Coordinate with interior designers, architects, and general contractors to ensure furniture installation aligns with the overall construction timeline.

• Ensure that all furniture meets design specifications, quality standards, and compliance requirements.

• Manage and oversee the installation crew, ensuring proper procedures are followed during furniture assembly and placement.

• Assign tasks to the installation team and ensure they are completed efficiently and on time.

• Conduct regular meetings to update stakeholders on the progress of the furniture installation.

• Liaise with furniture suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and resolve any issues related to missing or damaged items.

• Review and approve product samples, ensuring they meet the project’s specifications and quality standards.

• Manage relationships with subcontractors, ensuring they adhere to agreed contracts and timelines.

• Manage the furniture installation budget, ensuring cost-effective procurement and timely installation without exceeding allocated funds.

• Review and track project costs related to furniture procurement, delivery, and installation.

• Ensure that all furniture installations meet the required standards of safety, functionality, and durability.

• Perform quality inspections throughout the installation process to identify and address any potential issues. Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in project management, interior design, construction management, or related field (preferred).

• Relevant certifications in project management (PMP, CAPM) or interior design are a plus.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of project management experience in furniture installation, construction, or a related industry.

• Strong knowledge of furniture design, assembly, and installation techniques Salary based on qualifications and experience.

CLEANER

ACA/ACCA/CA/FCA

AUDIT ASSISTANT MANAGERS

We are seeking two audit assistant managers who are professionally qualified chartered/public accountants with a minimum of six years post graduate professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm. These individuals are required to help manage the external audit process from planning through to completion including leading members of the engagement team. They will report to the managers, senior managers and directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$65,000 to US$85,000 per annum.

AUDIT SENIORS

We are seeking four audit seniors who are professionally qualified chartered/ public accountants with a minimum of four years post graduate professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm or a large company. These individuals are required to assist managers, senior managers and directors in the planning and execution of external audits and supervise and train junior staff. Salary ranges from US$50,000 to US$70,000 per annum.

GRADUATE TRAINEES

We are seeking two motivated graduate trainees with a degree in accounting, finance or business to work in our audit department. A strong ambition to obtain an internationally recognised accounting designation as soon as possible is required. A competitive salary and training support will be provided.

Extensive experience of International Standards on Auditing and International Financial Reporting Standards is mandatory for the audit assistant manager and audit senior positions.

One audit assistant manager position and one audit senior positions are currently held by work permit holders. All other positions are new. If you wish to be considered for these opportunities, please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either:

dedicated and passionate individuals to join the Big Blue family as a

To contribute to our mission of protecting and educating others about the unique ecosystems of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This role emphasizes mangrove and coastal plant ecology, combining scientific expertise with guiding eco-tours and promoting environmental awareness.

THE FOLLOWING ARE REQUIRED OF THE APPLICANT:

• Conduct research and monitoring of mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coastal plant ecosystems.

• Lead guided eco-tours, sharing in-depth knowledge about mangroves, plant species, and their role in the coastal ecosystem. Develop and implement conservation and restoration projects for mangroves and coastal vegetation.

• Educate guests and the local community on the critical importance of mangroves and coastal plants for biodiversity and climate resilience.

• Collaborate with local organizations to enhance conservation efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field with a focus on mangrove and coastal plant ecosystems. A deep passion for environmental conservation and education.

• Excellent communication and public speaking skills to engage and educate diverse audiences. Experience in eco-tourism, guiding, or environmental outreach is an asset.

• Proficiency in swimming; snorkeling or diving certification is highly preferred.

• Specifically seeking for belongers. Interested applicants should apply to the email address below. Salary range: $125-$175 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed service charge.

GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a post-secondary/graduate degree or equivalent

• Minimum of 5 years work experience

• Must be on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

MAIN DUTIES

• Diagnose, treat and care for patients using natural health process

• Promote well-being by educating patients about health care management

• Management of chronic and acute medical conditions

• Carry out hands-on treatments such as osteopathy, reflexology, or acupuncture, and/or work with the client using hydrotherapy, coaching, meditation or yoga techniques

• Provide follow up care through additional one-to-one sessions to track progress and review treatments as required

• Occasional referral of clients to other practitioners who can help the client with issues that sit outside of your remit, such as counsellors

• Recommend and give advice on diet changes, exercise regimes, lifestyle, herbal medicine and homeopathic remedies

• Create personalised health programmes or treatment plans, which address all areas of the person’s life

Monthly salary $5000 - $7000 depending on experience. Belongers only need to apply. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Are you a people person? Are you a sales person?

Big Blue Collective is seeking a highly self motived, energetic salesperson that loves to work with people and enjoys customer service to work in a team environment.

SALES REP PROFILE:

• Passion for tourism with an eco friendly drive and all the represent Big Blue Collective

• Love working with the public

• Self motivation

• Friendly professional, confident communication with excellent verbal and written skills mandatory.

• Outgoing, honest, energetic, positive spirit and enthusiasm

• Can stay focused and on track in a busy environment?

• Can you think on your feet?

• Love working in a team environment.

• Strive to achieve.

• Extreme attention to detail in all aspects

• Strong sense of pride in your work

• Strong organization skills

• Proficient at multi-tasking

• Be able to think on your feet in a quick changing environment.

DUTIES FOR THIS POSITION WILL INCLUDE:

• Must love people. Be the first happy, energetic face greeting the guests as they arrive.

• Retail sales with growth to maintain inventory and ordering stock.

• Answering phones, making sales and reservations, and exuding your energy as you help them plan their vacation.

• Greeting and signing in guests

• Taking payments, entering and balancing daily income

• Answering email inquiries with thoroughness, accuracy, detail and passion.

• Possibility to fill in as an eco guide including snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding if you have interest in this. Training provided.

• Troubleshooting and thinking ahead

THIS POSITION REQUIRES THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good understanding of the tourism industry and a passion for protecting the environment

• Mature, self motivated, outgoing, honest, and energetic

• Must be able to work long days, weekdays, weekends and holidays. Remain flexible.

• Must speak fluent English, any other languages and asset.

An Application, REGISTERED PR 17986 by TCIRFU PROPERTY LTD. for DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION for the construction of a Townhouse and Apartment Development - Buildings 1 and 2 consisting of Eight (8) Two-Bedroom Units and Two (2) Three-Bedroom Units Each; Building 3 consisting of Twelve (12) Two-Bedroom Units, One (1) ThreeBedroom and One (1) Four-Bedroom Unit)/Gym/Restaurant/Swimming Pool with Decks/Six Foot High Chain Link Fence/Ancillary Facilities has been submitted to the Department of Planning on Block & Parcel 60905/176 which comprises of 2.57 acres of land located in The Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales. The proposed development is inconsistent with a plan which has been approved.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via in person or video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing or in person, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

• Attention to detail is key.

• Excellent multi- tasking skills while staying focused.

• Minimum high school graduate with strength in math

• 3 years retail sales experience with desire to ensure sales are met, tracked and accurate.

• 3 years front desk/reception experience at a high level of efficiency, thinking outside the box, pride and passion for the job.

• Experience with QuickBooks POS and all Microsoft applications

• Experience and willingness in ordering, maintaining and stocking retail an asset

MECHANIC DUMP TRUCK DRIVER

DOMESTIC WORKER

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• Salary $650 per week 40 hours a week

• Mornings, evenings, holidays and weekends

• Must speak and write English and Spanish

• Ability to assist me in work at restaurant during the day and evening

• Abilities to check in deliveries made to restaurant

• Ability to supervise gardeners and other staff in preparation for day to day maintenance Belonger only need apply

•

1 KITCHEN HELPER

• Preparing meal ingredients for the cook, which includes washing, peeling, cutting, and slicing ingredients.

• Properly washing and drying all dishes, utensils, cooking instruments and cutting boards.

• Neatly putting away all utensils and equipment in their respective places.

•

•

•

•

•

• Excellent communication skills in English with the ability to write legibly; ability to do simple calculations to re-order and maintain

KEY

SALARY:

BEACH ATTENDANT ASSISTANT COOK

experience working in a luxury 5-star hotel/resort. Have a good grasp of the English language to be able to speak with others using clear and professional language. Have a pleasant and professional demeanor to develop and maintain positive working relationships with others. Comply with quality assurance expectations and standards. Must be able to stand for long periods of time and carry up to 25lbs. Oversee water activities on the beach; respond appropriately in the event of an emergency, and provide assistance to injured guests. Must be familiar with Microsoft Office, POS and inventory control systems. Able to work long hours, weekends & holidays. Salary: $8/hr. Position held by work permit holder

and

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Experience Turks and Caicos is now accepting applications/resumes for the following positions: Only highly self-driven and motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:

TOURISM STATISTICS SPECIALIST

Hours: 40 Hours

Department: Marketing Department

Unit: Marketing Intelligence Unit

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: Up to $60,000.00

Reporting Supervisor: Marketing Intelligence Manager

Probationary Period: 6 months

Positions Supervised:

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: As Tourism Statistics Specialist, your role is to collect, analyze, and report statistical data that enables Experience Turks and Caicos to understand and shape tourism demand and offerings in the TCI. The data you gather and analyze will play a pivotal role in crafting and implementing tourism development policies and strategies.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

• Statistics Database Development and Management

• Marketing, including Market Research and Market Intelligence

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Collaborate with the Director of the Tourism Intelligence Unit to define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and other tourism metrics.

• Conduct comprehensive tourism analysis, including trend and impact assessments, surveys, data collection, and analysis.

• Manage Tourism Information Management Systems.

• Identify data intelligence tools to support the CEO and CMO in developing marketing and promotional strategies to maximize ROI in public relations, marketing, and sales promotions.

• Input data into databases and software programs.

• Prepare and deliver statistical reports on the tourism performance of the destination and Experience Turks and Caicos.

• Identify all sources of tourism statistical data relevant to Experience Turks and Caicos.

• Assist the Tourism Intelligence Unit in preparing the market research budget for surveys and various statistical analyses.

• Verify the completeness and accuracy of source data.

• Assist in compiling reports, charts, or graphs that explain and interpret analysis findings. Collaborate with the Press and Communication Unit to publish statistical reports and news releases.

• Develop and maintain updated databases and archives related to the tourism products, services, and demand in the TCI.

• Work with the Marketing and Sales Unit to identify marketing activities for various tourism markets and segments.

• Provide recommendations to the CEO and Chief Marketing Officer regarding tourism trends in international markets and segments relevant to TCI.

OTHER:

• Create graphs and infographics to facilitate the interpretation of tourism statistics.

• Attend relevant training courses on tourism statistics.

• Participate in international symposiums, meetings, forums, and training courses related to tourism indicators and data programs.

• Fulfill any other duties assigned by the CEO, Chief Marketing Officer, and Marketing Intelligence Manager.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics, Economics, or a related field.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in tourism statistics development and analysis.

• Proficiency in data analysis, problem-solving, and statistical inference.

• Excellent knowledge of statistical programs such as SPSS, SAS, Excel, and

other database tools.

• Strong oral, written, communication, and presentation skills.

• Exceptional interpersonal and teamwork skills for effective collaboration with staff, service providers, government agencies, and officials.

• Proficiency in MS Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• A results-driven and dynamic work environment.

• Interface with various government ministries, private sector entities, nongovernmental organizations, and agencies.

• Occasional travel may be required.

• Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed to achieve goals within a changing and evolving environment.

DIGITAL

MARKETING SPECIALIST

Hours: 40 hours

Department: Marketing and Sales Department Unit: Marketing & Sales Unit

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: Up to $60,000 per annum

Reporting Supervisor: Marketing and Sales Unit Manager

Probationary Period: 6 months

Positions Supervised: N/A

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: The Digital Marketing Specialist’s role is to design, create, and deliver digital marketing programs to promote TCI at a global level. This role requires an in-depth knowledge of all digital tools that could be used for the marketing campaign of the destination.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Digital marketing and promotion

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Developing, managing and designing layouts of digital communications such as presentations, newsletters, event support materials and brochures

• Planning, development and implementation of international digital programs and campaigns, including online advertising, web site strategy and design, social media, mobile, and deliverables

• Managing digital agency relationships, as well as campaign budgets and schedules

• Maintaining site analytics, metrics, and campaign reporting

• Presenting recommendations to the M&S Unit Manager

• Developing and coordinating multimedia packages

OTHERS:

• Assist the M&S Unit Manager to develop marketing and promotional activities

• Coordinate her/his activity with all other Unit members and with all other DMO Units

• Collaborating with the Tourism Intelligence Unit to monitor the impacts and efficiency of the digital marketing activities

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/COMPETENCIES:

• Associates degree in a related field

• At least 7 years of experience in digital marketing within tourism & travel global chains or the Telecommunications or High-Tech industry

• Deep understanding of digital marketing and digital production

• Proven experience delivering effective and innovative digital campaigns

• Proven experience delivering a variety of digital assets, including rich media online ads, micro sites, and social media applications

• Experience managing successful social media campaigns, and an

PUMP ATTENDANT SERVER

LABOURER

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND

BOOKKEEPING CLERK

• Candidate must have at least 2 years’ experience in this field.

• Monitor Accounts to ensure that payments are up to date.

• Total, Balance & Reconcile Accounts.

• Knowledge in the use of QuickBooks Accounts.

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suites.

• Review Invoices & Statements.

• Multitask and work under time

• Reconcile computer Reports with operating reports.

• Ensure the completeness and accuracy of data on accounts.

• Maintain files of paid invoices & supporting Documentation.

• Review payable accounts.

• Wages start at gross $600 weekly.

first time work permit application.

understanding of social marketing

• Must be able to work under constant deadline pressure and manage multiple projects across multiple lines of business

• Strong management skills, excellent oral and written communication skills

• Experience delivering digital campaigns for mainstream products and services

• Knowledge of SEO and AdWords programs

• Understanding of web metrics, digital analytics, with the ability to generate, analyze and interpret data

• Understanding of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Framemaker, DreamWeaver, HTML, HTML 5, CSS

• Proficiency in graphics, web advertising, social media and web development is a must

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• A dynamic work environment

• Interface with relevant government ministries and departments and tourism private sector entities

• Goal accomplishment within a multi-disciplinary, changing and evolving environment

• Work hours may extend to evenings, weekends and holidays

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a cover letter and two letters of reference (one preferably from a Former employer) as well as copies of educational certificates and a copy of the passport photo page. Shortlisted candidates must submit a police certificate.

ASSISTANT PROPERTY MANAGER

H2O life.style.resort is seeking for a highly self motivated, energetic, friendly, professional and customer-focused assistant property manager to oversee its hotel operation. The applicant has to be handy and capable of sourcing solutions to complex building issues, and to be proactive. Have effective communication skills and be able to Negotiate with suppliers and contractors. Be computer literate and task oriented.

Our successful applicant must demonstrate exceptional leadership abilities with great attention to details.

DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Assisting the general manager in the day-to day operation.

• Oversee and assist engineering department.

• Collaborate with every department, subcontractors, and condo owners to ensure that resort’s quality standards are maintained.

• Conduct daily site and room inspections.

• Communicate with condo owners, guests, management and co-workers in a timely manner regarding all aspects of the hotel operation.

• Ensure all emails are answered in an adequate time frame and a professional manner.

• Responsible for sourcing, purchasing and logistics

• Covering and assisting front desk as needed by performing check-in and check-out.

REQUIREMENTS AND SKILLS:

• Must be fluent in English.

• Must have a valid driver license.

• Must have a minimum of 5 years experience in the hospitality industry.

• Must have strong computer skills.

• Experience in guest services, maintenance, housekeeping, purchasing, logistics.

• Professional customer service and problem-solving skills.

• Must be willing to work overtime, weekends and holidays. Salary based on experience and qualifications.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted. APPLICATION

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

JOB PURPOSE:

The Maintenance Manager is responsible for managing the resort’s maintenance operation and performing highly diversified maintenance duties in support of the organization’s business goals and objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Plans, organizes, and manages the resort’s maintenance operations, which includes, but is not limited to: troubleshooting, installing, repairing and maintaining and monitoring the resort’s physical plant, utilities, health and safety systems and facilities (buildings – internal/external, restaurant, recreational, laundry, waste water treatment plant, lift stations and pumps, and filtration systems, pools), parking lots and pathways, grounds, vehicles (company vehicles, golf carts, bicycles), and related equipment

2. Works closely with the resort’s leadership to plan, develop and execute the organization’s short and long-term maintenance strategies. Provides leadership and vision to the maintenance department; coaches and supports the team; liaises with other department heads to ensure maintenance needs are met

3. Assigns, leads, directs, and performs maintenance tasks

4. Determines work procedures, prepares work schedules and expedites workflow

5. Monitors and manages the maintenance of the resort’s electrical, water, propane, pool, and waste water treatment plant in collaboration with the relevant providers, owners and management

6. Regularly reviews processes and procedures and amends as necessary to increase productivity and improve efficiencies

7. Collaborates with subcontractors on maintenance projects initiated by OCR and condo owners; inspects contractor work and ensures resort’s quality standards are maintained

8. Communicates with owners, guests, management and co-workers in a timely manner regarding maintenance needs, which may include assessing maintenance needs, obtaining/providing service, labor or parts/equipment quotes, taking photographs of damages, conducting inventory of unit as

necessary

9. Manages, mentors and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; evaluates departmental/staff performance; executes disciplinary actions as necessary in consultation and collaboration with the Project Manager and Human Resources Manager

10. Ensures maintenance policies and procedures are kept current and applicable

11. Audits and submits time, expense and work order reports to the accounting department as required

12. Responds to inquiries relative to maintenance issues, concerns, requests, procedures and projects in a timely manner

13. Assists in the assessment of vendors/ contractors for resort/project consideration, then manages and monitors their standards of performance and work

14. Ensures maintenance team and other departments have cohesive working relationships

15. Ensures departmental compliance with the policies, procedures and guidelines of Ocean Club Resorts and TCIG health and safety regulations

16. Performs other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments

Skills/Qualifications:

1. To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily

2. High School Diploma, appropriate resort or building industry trade certification, plus relevant education and 3-5 years supervisory experience, preferably in a resort environment

3. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate others

4. Thorough knowledge of hotel maintenance procedures, operations and equipment

5. Self-motivated and dependable with a strong work ethic and good problem solving skills

6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in English language

7. Professional appearance and demeanor

8. Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

• Maintain pricing integrity on the sales floor by ensuring that all

OFFICER QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

SUNNY FOODS BLUE HILLS

Blue Hills, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands CONTACT: 1-649-946-2811

We are looking for the following:

PRICING CLERK CUSTOMER RELATION

• Items are properly received, priced, tagged, and scanned correctly.

• Ability to work in minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius

• Ability to operate Cash Register, Back office POS System, MS Office, Credit Card Terminal, calculator, pricing gun.

• Communicate and collaborate with other team members.

• Availability on work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to multitask, prioritizes, and manages time efficiently.

• Wages start at gross $600 per Week.

Five Cays Access Road, Providenciales, TCI, We are looking for the following: FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL AND FOR FIRST TIME WORK PERMIT HOLDERS. INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN EMAIL THEIR RESUME TO JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET OR SEND RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. BELONGERS NEED ONLY TO APPLY.

• Excellent written & Verbal Communication Skills, including dealing with customer complaint.

• Proficient in all Microsoft Office Applications, POS, & Intuit QuickBooks.

• Extremely Organized and attentive to detail.

• Comfortable performing a variety of roles, including Payroll Support, Front Desk Reception, Personal Assistant and Organizational point of Contact.

• Wages start at gross $600 weekly.

PREMIER BUILDING SOLUTIONS

Blue Hills, Providenciales

DRYWALL FINISHER

Employment Type: Full-Time Payment: $10 per hour

ABOUT US:

Premier Building Solutions is a leading construction company recognized for delivering high-quality building projects. Known for our superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, we are seeking skilled drywall finishers to join our growing team.

JOB

DESCRIPTION:

As a drywall finisher at Premier Building Solutions, you will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and polished appearance of walls and ceilings. Your responsibilities will include:

• Preparing drywall surfaces by cleaning, sanding, and ensuring proper alignment.

• Taping, finishing, and applying joint compound to seams and corners.

• Repairing cracks, holes, and other surface imperfections.

• Using hand tools, brushes, and mechanical applicators to apply finishing materials.

• Ensuring seamless and smooth finishes for painting or further treatments.

• Reading blueprints and following specifications to meet project requirements.

• Collaborating with other construction professionals to meet deadlines and quality standards.

• Maintaining a clean and safe work area, adhering to safety guidelines.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a drywall finisher.

• Expertise in taping, mudding, and sanding techniques.

• Ability to achieve smooth and seamless surfaces.

• Proficient in using drywall tools such as trowels, knives, and sanding equipment.

• Strong understanding of construction methods and materials.

• Attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality work.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and project plans.

• Good physical stamina and ability to work in various conditions.

• High school diploma; completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is preferred.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are a skilled drywall finisher looking to join a reputable company committed to excellence, we would love to hear from you. Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and qualifications to strategicsolutions649@gmail.com or call 649-3435343.

• Maintain pricing integrity on the sales floor by ensuring that all

PRICING CLERK FROZEN FOOD STOCKERS

• Items are properly received, priced, tagged, and scanned correctly.

• Ability to work in minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius

• Ability to operate Cash Register, Back office POS System, MS Office, Credit Card Terminal, calculator, pricing gun.

• Communicate and collaborate with other team members.

• Availability on work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to multitask, prioritizes, and manages time efficiently.

• Wages start at gross $600 weekly.

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends & holidays

• Loading and unloading Container

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20degrees

• Wages start at $8.00 per Hour.

FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL AND FOR FIRST TIME WORK PERMIT HOLDERS. INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN EMAIL THEIR RESUME TO JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET OR SEND RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. BELONGERS NEED ONLY TO APPLY.

AIR-CONDITION/ MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

A Luxury Villa Company is looking to employ an Air-condition/Maintenance Technician to work along with our Maintenance Team. Duties include but are not limited to: -

• Trouble shooting, Installing, maintaining and repairing air conditioning

• Ventilate equipment and controls making sure that they operate efficiently and continuously

• Diagnose electrical and mechanical malfunctions and defects

• Clean blowers and coils, check belts and motors

• Inspect and maintain refrigerators and ice machines

• Repair parts of the facility that may need repair

• Stay current on safety measures for fire, carbon monoxide

• Maintain compliance with industry regulations

• Communicate any issues to management

The technician should be able to work in places where they are exposed to dust, fumes, noise and toxic materials and high voltage he or she should be capable of working in confined hot spaces like roofs and attics.

This advert is for the renewal of a work permit. Renumeration for this position starts at $9.00 per hour. Interested persons are asked to forward their CV to hr@thesource.tc

MASON

• A Mason is required to work along with the maintenance team and must possess the following skills

• Mix cement using equipment, and/or hand tools.

• Lay blocks follow blueprint plans or drawings.

• Cut or breaks concrete using hammers, power saws etc.

• Remove excess mortar with trowels and hand tools.

• Fabricates, alters, repair foundation and other related structures or surfaces.

• Must have proven experience as a mason.

• Must be willing to work well with the team

• Must have clean police record. This position pays $9.00 per hour

This advert is for the renewal of a work permit. Renumeration for this position starts at $9.00 per hour. Interested persons are asked to forward their CV to hr@thesource.tc

HANDYMAN

7 INSPIRED MEN LTD

441-8241

Millennium Highway

$9.00

Maintaining repairs of store appliances

DOMESTIC WORKER DOMESTIC WORKER

NADIA PIERRE LOUIS 343-1895

South Dock

$8.00

Caring for my children, prepare their meals, wash, cook, iron and clean the house

SAME STUBBS 243-0524

Kew Town

$8.00

Caring for my children, prepare a clean environment for them, wash, iron and cook

CHEF GARDENER LABOURER

TINY’S RESTAURANT

345-3053

Leeward Highway

Kew Town

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

$10.00 prepare food for the restaurant, prepare menu for private function & preparing food for private BRUTUS LANDSCAPING 345-5069

RASHARD’S CLEANING 342-0255

Discovery Bay

$8.00 soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning and cleaning properties.

$8.00

Cleaning Villa, office, and condos and cleaning outside properties

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, 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 Robenson Dorsainvil by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

We are seeking a seasoned, personable, and dependable Guest Relations and Service Trainer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a proven background in guest service, social marketing and measurable performance metrics. With an increasing number of South American and European clients, fluency in English, Portuguese, French, Italian and Spanish is essential. The successful candidate will overseas all guest relations, providing training for concierges, assist with staff scheduling, and deliver guest-facing service training for house staff to meet or exceed expectations. Additionally, they will lead customer marketing initiatives and provide support to the reservations team. Experience in high-end hospitability, particularly in luxury hotels, is preferred, as this role is to critical to creating memorable guest experiences from initial inquiry through departure.

• Design, improve, and implement a comprehensive training program for guest relations, emphasizing emotional hospitality.

• Develop, manage and track revenue opportunities within the concierge department.

• Create and monitor guest satisfaction metrics.

• Plan and excuse events for high-profile guests.

• Engage with customers through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to enhance customer and in-person interactions.

• Problem-solving in high-pressure situations with creativity and agility.

• Craft luxurious, tailored itineraries and experiences for discerning guests.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Degree in Hospitality, Business Management

• Additional certifications such as tourism marketing, event planning, travel planning, and customer service, training programs and CPR / Red Cross certification are required.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in luxury hospitality, preferably in five-star hotels or high-end accommodations.

• Proven experience organizing high-end events and social marketing campaigns to attract and retain guests.

• Proficiency in developing guest-focused social marketing campaigns.

• Demonstrated expertise in guest service training and staff development.

• Fluency in English, Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese is strongly preferred.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple task, and maintain composure under pressure.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 242(1) of the Companies Ordinance 2017 that on the 31st day of October 2024 the Company’s members passed a written resolution in accordance with Section 237(3)(b) of the Companies Ordinance 2017 that the Company be placed into voluntary liquidation and to appoint Bernd G. Wolf ofTwa Marcelin Wolf, Attorneys at Law, Chancery Court, 1276 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, P.O. Box 209, Turks and Caicos Islands as Voluntary Liquidator.

NOTICE is further given that any Creditors of the Company are required to provide details of their debts and claims to the Voluntary Liquidator of the Company by the close of business on the 2nd day of December 2024. Any creditor who fails to provide the Voluntary Liquidator with full details of his, her or its claim by close of business on the specified date, or to provide such additional information as may be requested by the Voluntary Liquidator, will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved.

VACANCY NOTICE BY THE TCI INTEGRITY COMMISSION

CLEANER

SUMMARY:

The Integrity Commission of the Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking to retain a Human Resources Consultant on an on-call basis to assist with the Human Resource functions, policies and programs of the TCI Integrity Commission.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review staff manual, rules and policies of the Commission that relate to staff and staffing.

• Review current procedures for grievances and dispute/conflict resolution, and make recommendations as needed.

• Review staff performance appraisals system.

• Review current training platforms for staff.

• Identify and compile a list of resources, tangible and intangible, that the Commission needs.

• Assist in recruitment process of staff (shortlisting, interviewing etc)

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management/Social Sciences/ Public Sector Management is essential.

• Professional Human Resource Certification to the level of SPHR or HRMP would be an asset.

• A Degree with concentration in Human Resource Management would be an asset.

EXPERIENCE:

• Eight to ten (6) years experience in the field of Human Resource Management, preferably with at least (2) at a managerial level with supervisory responsibility.

REMUNERATION

• Contract will run 12 months

• Yearly payments will total $21,600

• Travel, Accommodation and Subsistence will be added as necessary.

LOCATION

The successful applicant will be able to carry out work from the Commission’s offices in Grand Turk and Providenciales as necessary.

REPORTING

In addition to reporting to the Commission as required, the successful applicant will also actively report to the Commission Secretary, the Director and Deputy Director of the Commission.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENT FOR TCI INTEGRITY COMMISSION ORDINANCE

The successful applicant is required to be knowledgeable of the Integrity Commission Ordinance, TCI Public Service Handbook, and Public Service Ordinance. Belongers only need apply!

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Applications should be submitted to the Secretary, TCI Integrity Commission either by email, fax, or mail. Contact details are: e-mail: secretary@integritycommission.tc; or Info@ integritycommission.tc ; Tel. 946-1941; Fax. 946-1355.

Direct mail should be addressed to Mrs. Wanda Ariza, Secretary, The Integrity Commission, Franklyn Missick Building, Church Folly, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

COURT REPORTER

College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based.

HAIR STYLIST MANICURIST

DOMESTIC WORKER

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

A Bachelor of Science in Oceanography with Marine Biology and Construction will be an asset 10 years or more experience in Ocean Marine work as it relates to construction

• Developing company objectives

• Overseeing senior management staff

• Coordinating with sub-contractors

• Reporting to the board of directors or members

• Ensuring the business is compliant with industry regulations as it relates to the Marine

• Managing the company’s investments, and other financial products and services

• Securing long term Project Contracts Directors salary is paid base on experience

NJ’S MAINTENANCE

Blue Hills, Providenciales

Employment Type: Full-Time

ABOUT US:

NJ’s Maintenance is a trusted provider of professional maintenance and construction services, renowned for delivering exceptional quality and customer satisfaction. As part of our expansion, we are currently seeking a Carpenter and a Labourer to join our team.

CARPENTER

J OB DESCRIPTION:

As a Carpenter at NJ’s Maintenance, you will perform construction and maintenance tasks involving wood and other materials. Responsibilities include:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints, drawings, and sketches to understand project specifications.

• Measuring, cutting, and assembling wood and other materials.

• Installing structures and fixtures, such as windows, doors, and cabinetry.

• Building frameworks, including walls, floors, and door frames.

• Repairing damaged wooden structures and fixtures.

• Using tools and equipment safely and effectively.

• Maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a carpenter in construction or maintenance roles.

• Strong knowledge of carpentry techniques, tools, and materials.

• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and blueprints.

• Skilled in using hand tools, power tools, and equipment.

• Excellent attention to detail and craftsmanship.

• Good physical condition with the ability to lift heavy materials.

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS, 2021

THE FOLLOWING APPLICATIONS REGISTERED BY APPLICATION NUMBERS:

WERE SUBMITTED FOR DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION. EACH APPLICATION CONTEMPLATES THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A MAIN DWELLING CONTAINING SIX (6) BEDROOM, SIX AND A HALF (6.5) BATHROOM, POOL, PUMP ROOM, DECK, STORAGE, CISTERN AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES ON THE AFOREMENTIONED BLOCK & PARCELS OF LAND LOCATED AT NORTH WEST AND CENTRAL, PROVIDENCIALES.

THE PROPOSED VILLA APPLICATIONS FORM PART OF THE URBAN HOTEL RESORT DEVELOPMENT.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a carpentry apprenticeship is an asset.

Salary: Carpenter: $10/Hr

LABOURER

J OB DESCRIPTION:

As a Laborer at NJ’s Maintenance, you will support the team in a variety of construction and maintenance tasks. Responsibilities include:

• Assisting carpenters and other team members with daily tasks.

• Preparing worksites, including loading and unloading materials.

• Operating basic hand and power tools under supervision.

• Performing general maintenance and cleaning duties on-site.

• Ensuring a safe and organized work environment.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in construction or maintenance is an asset but not required.

• Strong work ethic and ability to follow instructions.

• Physical fitness to handle manual labor and lift heavy objects.

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Labourer: $9/Hr

HOW TO APPLY:

If you are interested in joining a company dedicated to quality and excellence, we want to hear from you!

2 SECURITY OFFICERS RECEPTIONIST

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

Reporting Supervisor: Project Manager

JOB PURPOSE:

The Maintenance Manager is responsible for managing the resort’s maintenance operation and performing highly diversified maintenance duties in support of the organization’s business goals and objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Plans, organizes, and manages the resort’s maintenance operations, which includes, but is not limited to: troubleshooting, installing, repairing and maintaining and monitoring the resort’s physical plant, utilities, health and safety systems and facilities (buildings – internal/external, restaurant, recreational, laundry, waste water treatment plant, lift stations and pumps, and filtration systems, pools), parking lots and pathways, grounds, vehicles (company vehicles, golf carts, bicycles), and related equipment

2. Works closely with the resort’s leadership to plan, develop and execute the organization’s short and long-term maintenance strategies. Provides leadership and vision to the maintenance department; coaches and supports the team; liaises with other department heads to ensure maintenance needs are met

3. Assigns, leads, directs, and performs maintenance tasks

4. Determines work procedures, prepares work schedules and expedites workflow

5. Monitors and manages the maintenance of the resort’s electrical, water, propane, pool, and waste water treatment plant in collaboration with the relevant providers, owners and management

6. Regularly reviews processes and procedures and amends as necessary to increase productivity and improve efficiencies

7. Collaborates with subcontractors on maintenance projects initiated by OCR and condo owners; inspects contractor work and ensures resort’s quality standards are maintained

8. Communicates with owners, guests, management and co-workers in a timely manner regarding maintenance needs, which may include assessing maintenance needs, obtaining/providing service, labor or parts/

equipment quotes, taking photographs of damages, conducting inventory of unit as necessary

9. Manages, mentors and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; evaluates departmental/staff performance; executes disciplinary actions as necessary in consultation and collaboration with the Project Manager and Human Resources Manager

10. Ensures maintenance policies and procedures are kept current and applicable

11. Audits and submits time, expense and work order reports to the accounting department as required

12. Responds to inquiries relative to maintenance issues, concerns, requests, procedures and projects in a timely manner

13. Assists in the assessment of vendors/ contractors for resort/project consideration, then manages and monitors their standards of performance and work

14. Ensures maintenance team and other departments have cohesive working relationships

15. Ensures departmental compliance with the policies, procedures and guidelines of Ocean Club Resorts and TCIG health and safety regulations

16. Performs other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

1. To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily

2. High School Diploma, appropriate resort or building industry trade certification, plus relevant education and 3-5 years supervisory experience, preferably in a resort environment

3. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate others

4. Thorough knowledge of hotel maintenance procedures, operations and equipment

5. Self-motivated and dependable with a strong work ethic and good problem solving skills

6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in English language

7. Professional appearance and demeanor

8. Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Science & Technology

How WhatsApp can save black men at risk of cancer

Researchers hope to find out if WhatsApp group chats can save the lives of black men at risk of prostate cancer.

One in four black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, compared to one in eight white men and one in 13 men of other ethnicities, according to Prostate Cancer Research.

Many are not aware of this high risk, according to Steve Khaireh, a Cardiff community worker involved in the research, adding that “they don’t listen to health professionals”.

Now Dr Sarah Fry is leading research, working with men in Cardiff, to assess the value of sharing health information through WhatsApp with at-risk groups.

Receiving a nudge to get tested from someone other than a medical professional is something Julian Delaney from Rhoose, Vale of Glamorgan, is thankful for.

In 2016 he attended a talk at the Rotary Club where he was urged to get a test, setting in motion a chain

Julian Delaney is “making the most of life” eight years after his prostate cancer diagnosis

of events the 73 year-old had not foreseen.

With no symptoms, he admits he thought cancer “wouldn’t happen to him”.

“When people tell you you’ve got prostate cancer it terrifies you,” he explains.

“But I asked a lot of questions,

Fossilised poop reveals secrets of how dinosaurs came to dominate Earth

The earliest dinosaurs were unremarkable, bit players on a supercontinent crowded with other ancient reptiles when they first evolved around 230 million years ago.

Fast-forward 30 million years, however, and dinosaurs dominated the planet, coming in all shapes, sizes and forms, while many of their reptilian counterparts had died off. Exactly why they were so evolutionarily successful is a long-standing mystery, but new research suggests some answers to this question may be contained in what they left behind: dinosaur droppings.

“We know a lot about their lives and extinction but not how they came about,” said Martin Qvarnström, lead author of a study on the rise of dinosaurs published Wednesday in the journal Nature and a paleontologist at Uppsala University in Sweden.

To better understand the extinct giants, Qvarnström and his colleagues investigated overlooked fossils known as bromalites: remnants from the digestive system — aka dinosaur poop and vomit.

They studied more than 500 fossils gathered over a 25-year

period from around 10 sites in the Polish Basin, an area in the south of Poland. The remains dated back to a range of time spanning the Late Triassic to early Jurassic Period, from around 247 million years ago to 200 million years ago.

“(Bromalites) contain so much paleoecological information, but I don’t think paleontologists really have acknowledged that and have seen them mostly as like a joke; you collect a few coprolites because it’s funny,” Qvarnström said, referring to fossilized feces. They found that the fossilized poop and vomit — scientifically known as coprolites and regurgitalites, respectively — increased in size and variety over time, indicating the emergence of larger animals and different diets.

By studying the shape and contents of the bromalites and linking them to fossilised skeletons and footprints found at the sites, researchers were able to identify and categorize the animals that likely produced them.

Doing so allowed the researchers to understand how many and what type and size of dinosaurs, as well as other vertebrate animals, were in the landscape at a given point in time. The analysis, which took

return to the GP when the doctor told him he did not need one.

“It’s a lack of knowledge in a lot of cases, they say to ask questions but if you don’t know the questions to ask, you’re stuck.”

Dr Fry’s study was influenced by her time as a research nurse in Velindre Cancer Centre where she realised there were very few black men in her clinics.

She now has funding from Cancer Research UK for this small pilot project.

and they were much more open in saying ‘I have this wrong with me, I’ve sought help individually’ rather than we need to help each other.”

If the pilot is a success, it is hoped it could be scaled up and eventually run alongside a national screening programme.

Steve, who works in the Grangetown, Riverside and Butetown areas of the capital, will be organising one of the messaging groups.

I researched and spoke to as many people I could.”

Julian decided to have his prostate removed and has been cancer free ever since.

His experience meant the former British Gas worker advised his three brothers to get tested and even had to tell one of them to

It will be led by men in the community, following her previous research which suggested men from different ethnic communities were more likely to respond positively to health information shared between friends.

“Having information between friends was more effective than a GP sharing it, they were more likely to say ‘ooh perhaps this is something I need to think about’,” she said.

“When I did my PhD I also worked with groups of white men

He said the plan made sense on a number of levels: “Most health professionals speak proper Queen’s English but what you find in our community is there are a variety of slang languages that people speak, street language - that’s really important in getting the message across in a language they understand.”

However it is communicated, the basic message, he believes, is the same.

“If you’re over 50, get tested. Simple.” (BBC)

Poland, were analysed as part of a new study on the rise of dinosaurs

10 years to complete, allowed the team to piece together why dinosaurs came to prominence.

REVELATIONS FROM ANCIENT POOP

In some cases, it was possible to make a visual assessment of what type of dinosaur was responsible for a bromalite based on a fossil’s size and shape — a spiral-shaped coprolite likely came from an animal with a spiral gut — but in many others, it was necessary to take a detailed 3D scan of the bromalite’s internal structure

using specialised equipment to understand what the fossils contained.

Ancient digestive remnants can

“look like something left by your dog in the park and it’s very evident what they are. In other cases, especially herbivores, they’re more difficult to recognize,” he said.

The team scanned the fossils’ internal structure at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble, France. The massive facility, a ring-shaped synchrotron 844 meters (2,800 feet) in circumference, generates X-ray

beams 10 trillion times brighter than medical X-rays and allows scientists to study matter at the molecular and atomic level.

“It’s a bit like a CT scanner at the hospital. It works in the same way, but with much higher energy. We need that to get this really high resolution and also good contrast,” Qvarnström said.

The coprolites contained the remains of fish, insects and plants, and sometimes other prey animals. Some remains were beautifully

Coprolites, aka fossilized feces, dating from the early Jurassic Period in

Science & Technology

Why India’s latest Sun mission finding is crucial for the world

Scientists in India have reported the “first significant result” from Aditya-L1, the country’s first solar observation mission in space.

The new learnings, they said, could help keep power grids and communication satellites out of harm’s way the next time solar activities threatened infrastructure on Earth and space.

On 16 July, the most important of the seven scientific instruments Aditya-L1 is carrying – Visible Emission Line Coronagraph, or Velc – captured data that helped scientists estimate the precise time a coronal mass ejection (CME) began.

Studying CMEs – massive fireballs that blow out of the Sun’s outermost corona layer – is one of the most important scientific objectives of India’s maiden solar mission.

“Made up of charged particles, a CME could weigh up to a trillion kilograms and can attain a speed of up to 3,000km [1,864 miles] per second while travelling. It can head out in any direction, including towards the Earth,” says Prof R Ramesh of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics that designed Velc.

“Now imagine this huge fireball hurtling towards Earth. At its top speed, it would take just about 15 hours to cover the 150 million km Earth-Sun distance.”

The coronal ejection that Velc captured on 16 July had started at 13:08 GMT. Prof Ramesh, Velc’s

times larger than Earth

Principal Investigator who has published a paper on this CME in the prestigious Astrophysical Journal Letters, said it originated on the side of the Earth.

“But within half an hour of its journey, it got deflected and went in a different direction, going behind the Sun. As it was too far away, it did not impact Earth’s weather.”

But solar storms, solar flares and coronal mass ejections routinely impact Earth’s weather. They also impact the space weather where nearly 7,800 satellites, including more than 50 from India, are stationed.

According to Space.com, they rarely pose a direct threat to human life, but they can cause mayhem on Earth by interfering with the Earth’s magnetic field.

Their most benign impact is causing beautiful auroras in places

close to the North and South Pole. A stronger coronal mass ejection can cause auroras to show up in skies further away such as in London or France – as it did in May and October.

But the impact is much more serious in space where the charged particles of a coronal mass ejection can make all the electronics on a satellite malfunction. They can knock down power grids and affect weather and communication satellites.

“Today our lives fully depend on communication satellites and CMEs can trip the internet, phone lines and radio communication,” Prof Ramesh says. “That can lead to absolute chaos.”

The most powerful solar storm in recorded history occurred in 1859. Called the Carrington Event, it triggered intense auroral light shows and knocked out telegraph

lines across the globe.

Scientists at Nasa say an equally strong storm was headed at Earth in 2012 and we had “a close shave just as perilous”. They say a powerful coronal mass ejection tore through Earth’s orbit on 23 July but that we were “incredibly fortunate” that instead of hitting our planet, the storm cloud hit Nasa’s solar observatory STEREO-A in space.

In 1989, a coronal mass ejection knocked out part of Quebec’s power grid for nine hours, leaving six million people without power.

And on 4 November 2015, solar activity disrupted air traffic control at Sweden and some other European airports, leading to travel chaos for hours.

Scientists say that if we are able to see what happens on the Sun and spot a solar storm or a coronal mass ejection in real time and watch its trajectory, it can work as a forewarning to switch off power grids and satellites and keep them out of harm’s way.

US space agency Nasa, the European Space Agency (ESA), Japan and China have been watching the Sun through their space-based solar missions for decades. With Aditya-L1 - named after the Hindu god of Sun - Indian space agency Isro joined that select group earlier this year.

From its vantage point in space, Aditya-L1 is able to watch the Sun constantly, even during eclipses and occultations, and carry out scientific studies.

Prof Ramesh says when we look at the Sun from the Earth, we see an orange ball of fire which is the photosphere - the Sun’s surface or the brightest part of the star. It’s only during a total eclipse, when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun and covers the photosphere that we are able to see the solar corona, the Sun’s outermost layer.

India’s coronagraph, Prof Ramesh says, has a slight advantage over the coronagraph in Nasa-ESA’s joint Solar and Heliospheric Observatory.

“Ours is of a size that it’s able to mimic the role of the Moon and artificially hide the Sun’s photosphere, providing Aditya-L1 an uninterrupted view of the corona 24 hours a day 365 days a year.”

The coronagraph on NasaESA’s mission, he says, is bigger which means it hides not only the photosphere but also parts of corona - so it cannot see the genesis of a CME if it originates in the hidden region.

“But with Velc, we can precisely estimate the time a coronal mass ejection begins and in which direction it’s headed.”

India also has three ground based observatories - in Kodaikanal, Gauribidanur in the south and Udaipur in the northwest - to look at the Sun. So if we add up their findings with that of Aditya-L1, we can greatly improve our understanding of the Sun, he adds. (BBC)

Fossilised poop reveals secrets of how dinosaurs came to dominate ...

preserved, including tiny beetles and half-complete fish. Other coprolites contained bones crushed by predators.

“The skeletal fossils, footprints and bromalites from sites in Poland provide a series of discrete temporal snapshots that demonstrate a transition from a world with few dinosaurs to one in which they dominated,” said Lawrence H. Tanner, a paleontologist at the department of biological and environmental sciences at Le Moyne College in New York. Tanner was not involved in the study.

“Using the techniques from this study in other locations would provide a more global context and build a nuanced picture,” Tanner wrote in a commentary piece that published alongside the research.

RECONSTRUCTING DINOSAURS’ RISE

The authors came up with five phases to explain dinosaurs’ ascendancy: Their ancestors were omnivorous, eating plants and animals. They evolved into the first carnivorous and planteating, or herbivorous, dinosaurs.

A key turning point came when increased volcanic activity may have led to a more diverse range of plants to feed upon, followed by the emergence of large and more diverse herbivore dinosaurs.

In turn, this phase led to the evolution of the giant carnivorous dinosaurs beloved by movie directors and childhood books at the beginning of the Jurassic Period 200 million years ago. The supremacy of the dinosaurs

endured until an asteroid that struck off the coast of what’s now Mexico 66 million years ago doomed the dinosaurs to extinction.

Before this latest research, two theories had been proposed to explain the transition from a world dominated by nondinosaurian reptiles to one in which the dinosaurs were ascendant, the study noted.

One model suggested that dinosaurs evolved to physically outcompete their rivals, according to the study. The dinosaurs’ upright stance resulting from the positioning of their hind limbs directly beneath their body, combined with flexible ankles, made them highly agile and more efficient than their evolutionary competitors such as reptiles with splayed legs. Alternatively, some

researchers believe dinosaurs were by chance better able to adapt to dramatic changes in climate that took place at the end of the Triassic.

Qvarnström said the research based on the Polish fossils suggested a combination of the two hypotheses provided a more likely explanation, with a “complex interplay of several processes” that meant dinosaurs were better able to cope with how environmental shifts changed what food was available.

For example, the study found that food residues extracted from bromalites belonging to dicynodonts, an ancient mammal relative with a turtle-shaped head, suggested that creature had a restricted diet, feeding principally on conifers. It disappeared from the fossil record around 200

million years ago.

Dinosaurs, on the other hand, appeared to eat a wide array of plants. For example, the team found that the contents of coprolites from the first large herbivorous dinosaurs, the sauropodomorphs, contained large quantities of tree ferns but also many other types of plants and charcoal. The team suspects that charcoal helped detoxify the ferns, which can be toxic.

Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki, the study’s senior author and a paleontologist based at Uppsala’s department of organismal biology; evolution and development, said the reason behind the dinosaurs’ evolutionary success was a message that still applied today: “Eat your veggies and live longer.” (CNN)

A coronal mass ejection can be several

Science & Technology

Long Covid brain fog linked to lung function

In patients with long Covid, lower pulmonary gas exchange may be associated with impaired cognitive function, according to a study being presented next week at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 17.6% of adults in the U.S. have experienced a post-Covid condition commonly referred to as long Covid. People with long Covid may exhibit a wide variety of symptoms, including difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”), change in sense of smell or taste, fatigue, joint or muscle pain, dyspnea (shortness of breath), digestive symptoms, and more. These symptoms may persist for weeks, months, or even years after Covid-19 infection.

Researchers from the University of Iowa in Iowa City set out to assess associations between pulmonary MRI gas exchange, structural and functional brain MRI, and cognition in long Covid patients. In pulmonary gas exchange, oxygen moves from the lungs to the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide moves from the bloodstream to the lungs.

“This is the first time that MRI has been used to jointly assess lung and brain function to investigate their relationship in long Covid,” said the study’s lead author Keegan Staab, B.S., graduate research

assistant in the Department of Radiology at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. “This research is new in that it combines multiple unique imaging types to study a multiorgan relationship in a disease population.”

Senior study author Sean B. Fain, Ph.D., professor and vice chair for research in the Department of Radiology at the University of Iowa, added, “If these findings can be generalized to the long Covid population, the study suggests that there may be a causative relationship between cognitive dysfunction and lung dysfunction, suggesting a potential treatment strategy using methods that target improved gas exchange.”

For the study, 10 female and 2 male patients (median age: 59 years) who had persistent dyspnea and/or fatigue following the resolution of acute Covid-19 infection were recruited from a postCovid-19 clinic. Hyperpolarized Xe pulmonary MRI, structural and functional brain MRI, pulmonary function tests and cognitive tests were acquired.

“129Xe MRI allows for advanced measurements of ventilation and gas exchange,” Staab said. “The literature also indicates that 129Xe may be more sensitive to pulmonary injury compared to standard breathing tests, making it better suited to study long Covid in which patients typically have normal breathing

Doctors are still unearthing the negative effects of long Covid

tests.”

Perceived cognitive difficulties were measured using PatientReported Outcomes Measurement Information System, and objective cognitive performance was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Toolbox V3 Cognition Battery.

“There was a range of cognitive difficulties among the patients in the study,” Staab said. “Some were mild and indicated slight dysfunction, while others were more serious and indicated that some patients have slow thinking and trouble concentrating several

times per day.”

The results showed that lower pulmonary gas exchange may be associated with cognitive dysfunction, as well as lower gray matter and white matter volumes in patients with long Covid. In addition, the researchers observed significant relationships suggesting that increased cerebral blood flow is associated with decreased gas exchange in long Covid patients.

Staab said larger studies are needed to investigate the association between gas exchange and cerebral blood flow in long Covid.

“This relationship could be a compensatory mechanism where lower lung function is compensated by higher cardiac output and higher brain perfusion,” he said. “It’s also a possibility that the disease mechanism that impairs pulmonary gas exchange also leads to higher brain perfusion through downstream vascular injury in both lung and brain.”

Based on the findings of this study, gas exchange abnormalities may help identify long Covid patients who require additional treatment or long-term management. (Prnewswire)

AI spurs ‘revolution’ for some visually impaired people

“AI has revolutionised my daily life,” says Louise Plunkett from Norwich.

Ms Plunkett has a genetic eye condition called Stargardt disease, a rare condition that causes progressive vision loss, which she says, “impacts everything I do”. “I can’t recognise people, even my own husband or my children. When my children were younger, I used to have to teach them how to come to me when I met them at the school playground.”

Ms Plunkett is comfortable with digital tools - her business advises companies on how to ensure their online content is suitable for the visually impaired community.

She has used services like Alexa, Google Home and Siri for years, helping with tasks like setting alarms and weather checks. Now she is finding an assistant called Be My AI useful.

The app uses ChatGPT to generate and then read out detailed

WeWalk is an AI-powered cane that detects obstacles and gives directions

descriptions of pictures.

“I’m quite a stubborn person,” says Ms Plunkett. “I don’t like asking for help or admitting I need help, so using the AI tool is useful for things when other humans aren’t around.”

She says she might use it to check which is the female toilets, or read the ingredients on food packaging, or read a letter.

However, she feels that AI can

sometimes be hit or miss. “The downside with AI is that sometimes it gives you too many details. You sometimes just want the basic information of what is in front of you, but it will go above and beyond, and offer up mood and emotions.

“For example, it might say ‘a swirling carpet evoking memories of times gone by’. It feels like it is one step too far.”

Be My AI was developed

by Danish firm Be My Eyes. Its original service put human volunteers in touch with its clients. Via mobile phones the volunteers would describe what was in front of the person with vision problems.

However, some of its 600,000 users are switching to their AI tool for help, says Jesper Hvirring Henriksen, chief technology officer.

“We have a woman who was one of our first users 10 years ago, and within the first six months [of releasing Be My AI], she did more than 600 image descriptions.”

He’s also discovering people are using the app in ways they hadn’t imagined. “We’re finding people using it to check pictures that have been sent to them on WhatsApp groups,” he says.

“Maybe they’re not going to call another human each time to ask them about a picture sent on a WhatsApp group, but they use AI.”

As for where it might go in

the future, he says live streaming video – with the tech describing buildings and movements around them - might be an area they move into. “This is going to be a gamechanger. It’s like having a little person in your shirt pocket all day telling you what is going on.”

Be My Eyes, which is free to users, makes money by signing up companies to its paid-for directory service where they can provide information and numbers to the blind and low-vision community. Mr Henrikson says AI won’t replace the need for human connection.

“At Be My Eyes, people are still choosing to call a volunteer too. The blind population in the Western world are generally not young when they start to experience vision loss… it’s more skewed towards the elderly population and this [AI] might add a later extra of complexity. Humans are faster and potentially more accurate.”

Sports International

Fifa legacy fund ‘shameful’ says Amnesty

Human rights group Amnesty says it is “shameful” that a new 2022 Qatar World Cup legacy fund does not include compensation for migrant workers harmed during preparations for the tournament.

Two years on from the event, Fifa says £39.4m of the proceeds it generated will be invested in social programmes across various regions, in collaboration with the hosts, World Health Organization, World Trade Organization, and the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Key priorities include occupational health, education and football development.

Fifa says the “groundbreaking” fund will support an initiative to safeguard the health and safety of workers from extreme heat in the context of climate change.

However, Amnesty insists it “does absolutely nothing for the families who lost loved ones in Qatar and were plunged into poverty as a result”.

WHAT’S THE BACKGROUND?

Controversy over the human cost of building the infrastructure required for the 2022 tournament in the gulf state’s extreme summer heat has hung over the event for years.

In 2021 it was revealed that 6,500 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka had died in Qatar since it won its bid to host the World Cup in 2010.

The Qatari government said not all the deaths recorded were of people working on World Cuprelated projects, and that many

could have died from old age or other natural causes.

Before the tournament, authorities claimed there had only been three ‘work-related’ deaths on actual stadium construction sites since work began in 2014.

But during the event, organisers said the number of migrant workers who died on World Cuprelated projects was “between 400 and 500”.

Qatar introduced labour reforms from 2017, with more protection for workers, a minimum wage, and the dismantling of the controversial ‘kafala’ sponsorship system, but there have been long-standing concerns over the implementation

of the changes.

Despite generating a record £6bn from the World Cup, Fifa resisted calls from campaigners, players’ unions, fan representative groups and some European football federations for a £350m compensation fund for the families of workers who were injured or who had died, instead committing to a legacy fund.

In late 2022, Fifa said it “welcomed assurances” from the Qatar government in relation to an existing workers’ support and insurance fund that it said had provided hundreds of millions of pounds in compensation, external in cases mainly dealing with late

and non-payment of wages.

In March 2023, Fifa also commissioned an independent report to advise on its responsibilities to migrant workers in Qatar, which is yet to be published.

‘FIFA

BURYING ITS HEAD IN THE SAND’

Hailing a “historic initiative”, Fifa President Gianni Infantino said the governing body was “taking the concept of a legacy fund to the next level in terms of reach and impact”.

Hassan Al Thawadi, SecretaryGeneral of the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, added: “We wanted to enact legacy

projects that would address issues critical to the region and to the international community as a whole. We look forward to working with our signatory partners today to utilising the power of football and the World Cup to contribute to improving lives within our region, and beyond.”

However, Steve Cockburn, Amnesty’s Head of Labour Rights and Sport, said: “It is shameful that Fifa and Qatar have launched their long-awaited legacy fund without any recognition of their clear responsibility towards the vast number of migrant workers who were exploited and, in many cases, died to make the 2022 World Cup possible.

“In failing to provide funding to compensate workers and their families for the severe harms suffered in Qatar, Fifa is blatantly disregarding its own human rights policies and is likely to be ignoring the conclusions of its own commissioned report – which is yet to be published. As long as Fifa continues to bury its head in the sand, workers and their families will continue to suffer the consequences.

“After worldwide demands for compensation coming from fans, players, sponsors and football associations, this legacy fund cannot be the end of the story. Fifa must finally do the right thing and provide meaningful remedy for all whose rights were violated and abused as a result of its flagship tournament.”

Fifa declined to comment on Amnesty’s claims. (BBC)

Dodgers reportedly agree to $182m deal with two-time Cy Young Award winner Snell

The Los Angeles Dodgers have reportedly agreed to a $182 million contract with two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, according to multiple outlets, including The Athletic and the Associated Press.

The five-year deal, which reportedly includes a $52 million signing bonus and around $60 million in deferred salary, comes after the Dodgers won the World Series in October despite having only three healthy starting pitchers when they entered the offseason.

With 2023 additions Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow missing long stretches due to injury and 2024 NL MVP Shohei Ohtani not throwing a single pitch while recovering from Tommy John surgery, the arrival of Snell represents a significant boost to a pitching staff which had to rely on

its bullpen too often in 2024.

The 31-year-old, who posted a photoshopped image of himself in a Dodgers jersey on Instagram on Tuesday night, is 76-58 with an ERA of 3.19 across nine seasons and 211 starts in the MLB. His average of 11.2 strikeouts per nine innings is the highest ever recorded in major league history.

Snell is also one of only seven pitchers to have won the Cy Young Award in both the American League and National League, having collected the award in 2018 with the Tampa Bay Rays and in 2023 with the San Diego Padres.

The Dodgers reportedly made a move for Snell following his success in San Diego, but the Seattle native eventually ended up with the San Francisco Giants in mid-March of 2024.

Snell endured a difficult start

to the season having missed most of spring training but found a hot streak, going 5-0 with an ERA of 1.23 in his last 14 starts, which included a no-hitter against the Cincinnati Reds in early August.

The deal – which is pending a physical, according to the AP –represents another huge financial outlay for the Dodgers after they spent $1.2 billion last offseason on Ohtani, Yamamoto, Glasnow and Teoscar Hernández.

Los Angeles has given out five contracts worth $100 million or more since the start of the 2023-24 offseason – as many as the rest of the MLB combined – and is the favorite to win the 2025 World Series.

No franchise has won consecutive Commissioner’s Trophies since the New York Yankees picked up three in a row between 1998 and 2000. (CNN)

Qatar said “between 400 and 500” migrant workers died while working on World Cup infrastructure

Blake Snell pitches for the San Francisco Giants against the Miami Marlins at Oracle Park on August 30

Sports International

City Chiefs DT Wharton catches child who fell headfirst from stands

After quite possibly saving a child’s life on Sunday, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton has invited the young fan to a game.

Wharton caught the child after he fell headfirst from the Bank of America Stadium stands following the Chiefs’ 30-27 win against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Sunday.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, Wharton said he had not had a chance to meet the child, but “would like to reach out to him, get him out to a game, and be able to reflect with him a little bit more, if I could.”

A video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, shows the young fan leaning over the edge of the stands at Bank of America Stadium to call to the Chiefs players leaving the field following Sunday’s game. The child loses his footing before falling headfirst from the stands, which are roughly 10 feet above the ground.

The footage shows Wharton

apparently catching the child, before lifting him back up into the stands.

It is not clear from the video whether a railing gave way, or whether the particular area that the young fan was leaning over was not covered by a fence. A second

video, apparently taken before the fall, shows a security guard attempting to hold a child back while shouting: “You can’t lean over here!”

A stadium spokesperson told CNN Sport: “We are aware of the incident that took place involving

a fan following the game on Sunday. The safety and security of all our patrons are of the utmost importance to us. After every game, we evaluate all stadium processes, and this occurrence will be included in that review.”

CNN has reached out to the

Chiefs for comment.

“It was a natural reaction,” the 26-year-old told McAfee about catching the child. “Usually, when I leave the game, I try to throw my gloves in the crowd, and I think I heard my name a little bit. And when I heard my name, I seen him coming down.

“There was two security guards there. I don’t think they realized what I was doing because they were looking at us. But I just had to kind of, like, push him into the stands a little bit to make sure he didn’t hit too hard,” he continued.

“I kind of grabbed him right by the back of his back, and kind of pushed him into the stands a little bit more.”

The incident has drawn criticism from across football and social media. Speaking on his New Heights podcast, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said: “I actually saw this and I just kept it moving. I felt bad after once I found out.”

CNN has reached out to the Panthers for comment on Kelce’s comments. (CNN)

Liverpool overpower Real Madrid in Champions League thriller

Liverpool finally ended their Real Madrid curse as they maintained their flawless Champions League record with a fully deserved victory in a thrilling encounter at Anfield.

They had failed to beat the holders in eight previous meetings in the tournament – including two Champions League finals – but there was no denying Liverpool as head coach Arne Slot’s remarkable start in succession to Jurgen Klopp continues.

Liverpool dominated Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who have now lost three of their five games and must fight for a play-off place in the tournament’s new format.

In a game where the two superstars, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Real’s Kylian Mbappe, failed from the penalty spot, Alexis Mac Allister put the hosts ahead after 52 minutes with a low shot across Thibaut Courtois in front of an elated Kop.

Real then squandered the chance to draw level as Caoimhin Kelleher saved Mbappe’s penalty following Andy Robertson’s foul on Lucas Vazquez.

Slot’s side then missed a spotkick of their own when Salah blasted wide after he had been upended by Ferland Mendy.

Liverpool did not have to wait long to increase their lead, substitute Cody Gakpo heading past Courtois from Robertson’s

cross 14 minutes from time, putting them top of the Champions League table with five wins from five.

The only downside for the hosts came late on as Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate limped off, with Slot saying post-match: “It’s difficult to judge so soon after the game. I’m really hoping that both will be available to play.”

LIVERPOOL’S RELENTLESS MARCH GOES ON

Liverpool’s victory over Real Madrid will taste especially sweet, given their recent disappointments against the tournament’s most successful club – and this almost

flawless display added to the growing sense that something special may be happening under the understated Dutchman Slot.

He has made it a seamless transition from his iconic predecessor Klopp, Liverpool’s more measured but still potent approach rattling off a string of impressive victories that has left them eight points clear at the top of the Premier League as well as heading the Champions League standings.

Liverpool heroes were everywhere on a night when Real Madrid were overrun, big names such as Mbappe and Jude Bellingham simply unable to exert

any influence.

Kelleher demonstrated what an outstanding deputy he is to firstchoice Alisson, not only saving Mbappe’s penalty but making other key contributions in another supremely assured performance.

And in 21-year-old Northern Ireland right-back Bradley, Liverpool showed they may just have the perfect replacement should Trent Alexander-Arnold take the road to Madrid in the summer.

This was, above all, an outstanding team performance and the perfect appetiser for Sunday’s vital meeting with struggling Premier League champions Manchester City at Anfield.

MBAPPE’S NIGHT OF TOIL

Mbappe belied his superstar status on a night when he and his teammates suffered at the hands of this increasingly impressive Liverpool.

The France forward, initially stationed on the left flank before moving to the centre in the second half, tried running at youngster Bradley but got no joy, one particularly rattling challenge bringing Liverpool fans to their feet and deafening roars of approval around Anfield.

And even when he had the chance of putting Real back on level terms, Mbappe never looked confident, Kelleher diving to his left to save. He was never short of effort but Liverpool simply refused to allow him to make his mark on the game.

The same could be said for Bellingham, who was shadowed by Ryan Gravenberch, showing some nice touches but not achieving anything of real significance.

Real are now in 24th place in the Champions League table, the last qualifying place – but only via a play-off.

Ancelotti and his players, however, have looked off the pace at this stage of the season before then gone on to win the European game’s biggest prize. It would be foolish to write off this coach and this team. (BBC)

Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton

Mac Allister put Liverpool ahead with a low shot into the corner following Bradley’s pass

Sports International

General Motors agrees deal to enter F1 in 2026

US car giant General Motors has reached an agreement in principle to enter Formula 1 in 2026 with its Cadillac brand.

A statement on Monday said that GM and its partner, the US group TWG Global, had committed to name a new team after GM’s luxury Cadillac brand and to build its own engine “at a later time”.

F1 said the application process would “move forward”.

Greg Maffei, president and chief executive officer of F1 commercial rights holder Liberty Media, said: “With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/ Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport.

“We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1.

“We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to enter the Championship in 2026.”

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of F1’s governing body the FIA, said: “General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) world and is working with impressive partners.

“I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the FIA, Formula 1, GM and the team to maintain dialogue and work towards

this outcome of an agreement in principle to progress this application to bring a GM/Cadillac branded team onto the grid for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship.

“All parties, including the FIA, will continue to work together to ensure the process progresses smoothly.”

Senior sources in F1 have told BBC Sport that GM and TWG will pay an anti-dilution fee of $450m (£358m) to secure the entry.

This will be split between the existing 10 teams as compensation for their loss of prize money as a result of F1’s income now being split 11 ways rather than 10.

The teams receive between them in the region of 63% of F1’s income.

This is larger than the $200m anti-dilution dictated by the existing F1 rules, but the contracts between the teams, F1 and the FIA end after 2025 and are being renegotiated for 2026. The fee is expected to go up again in the new deals.

The Cadillac team will need to buy a customer engine from an existing supplier to plug the gap before its own engine is finished, which is not expected to be before 2028.

Talks have not been completed, but the favourite at the moment is Ferrari. The Italian team will have a spare supply from 2026 as a result of one of their two current customer teams, Sauber, morphing

A new team will be named after GM’s Cadillac brand

into Audi’s official entry, for which the German car company is building its own engine.

The new Cadillac entry is a revision of the Andretti bid that was rejected by F1 in January.

F1 said at the time that it did not believe the Andretti project, which was in partnership with Cadillac, would add value to the sport.

This revised bid is viewed differently because it will be GM entering as a team owner.

The new team will be a joint effort between GM and TWG, with Dan Towriss, owner of US team Andretti Global, and TWG’s Mark Walter as the other key investors.

Michael Andretti, who cofounded the team that bears his name, is no longer involved after stepping down from his role in Andretti Global in September.

The former IndyCar and F1 driver was viewed as a divisive figure who had rubbed people up the wrong way with what was seen to be his confrontational approach to trying to secure an entry.

F1 is facing an investigation

from the US department of justice into its decision to reject Andretti’s initial entry.

Michael’s father Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula 1 world champion, is to be involved in an advisory capacity.

The 84-year-old said in a post on X: “Feel very lucky that I’ve been able to stick around for this long and do what I love for so long.

“And the idea that the Cadillac F1 Team wants me around... I’ll help where I can, a non-executive role with the team, not involved in day-to-day operations (because I don’t want a job), but offering advice, inspiration, friendship anywhere I can. I am beyond fortunate.”

GM’s entry will raise the number of car manufacturers building engines for F1 to six, in addition to Mercedes, Ferrari, Ford, Honda and Audi.

Ford, Audi, GM and Honda have all been persuaded to take part in F1 from 2026 as a result of new engine regulations that increase the role of the hybrid part

of the engine to about 50% of the total power output.

Honda, which is in F1 with Red Bull at the moment, had announced plans to pull out, but reversed its decision on the basis of the roadrelevance of the new rules. It has an exclusive supply deal with Aston Martin from 2026.

Ford, Audi and now GM are all new entrants. Ford is partnering with Red Bull in building a new engine.

Renault-owned sports car brand Alpine will remain in F1, but is abandoning its engine build programme and its team will use Mercedes customer engines from 2026.

“Exciting times ahead with the news of Cadillac joining the Formula 1 grid as the 11th team in 2026,” said McLaren Racing chief executive Zak Brown.

“Their rich history and experience in automotive innovation and performance will no doubt add a new dimension to our incredible sport. Looking forward to the competition!” (BBC)

Messi’s former teammate Mascherano announced as new Inter Miami head coach

Former Argentina captain Javier Mascherano will be Inter Miami’s new head coach, the club announced on Tuesday.

Mascherano will reunite with legendary forward Lionel Messi, who he played alongside for the national team and spent almost eight years with at Barcelona.

This will be Mascherano’s first senior managerial position, having previously coached the Argentina Under-20 national team. He also coached the country’s men’s side at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where it was knocked out by France in the quarterfinals.

He replaces Gerardo Martino, who the club announced had

The role will be Mascherano’s first at the first team and club levels

stepped down for personal reasons on Friday.

Mascherano said he now wants to help the club reach new heights.

“To be able to lead a Club like

Inter Miami is an honor for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of. I was drawn to the organization’s undeniable ambition, and the infrastructure it

has to support it,” Inter Miami’s new head coach said in Tuesday’s statement.

“I’m looking forward to working with the people at Inter Miami to help the Club reach new heights, and to give the fans more unforgettable moments.”

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham said he is excited to welcome the soccer veteran to the club.

“Throughout his career as one of the world’s best players and as an experienced coach, Javier has always demonstrated what makes him great - relentless determination with the knowledge, instincts and understanding to back it up. We’re

very excited to welcome him to lead our team,” Beckham said. Mascherano becomes the latest ex-Barcelona player to make the move to Miami. Alongside Messi, former Barça players Jordi Alba, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets are all members of the current squad.

The 40-year-old was deployed as a central defender or a defensive midfielder and had a glittering playing career. He made his first team debut for Buenos Aires-based team River Plate in 2003, before transferring to Brazilian club Corinthians. He signed for English side West Ham in the summer of 2006 but moved to Liverpool later that season.

North America retain Provo Ryder Cup

In a nail-biting finish, the North American team edged out Team International by the slimmest of margins, to retain the Provo Ryder Cup at the 32nd edition of the golf tournament.

The tournament, which was played recently at the Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club, was littered with rivalry, camaraderie and a solid comeback performance as the eventual winners claimed a one-point victory 21.50 to 20.50.

Team International came out swinging on day one, dominating the four-ball matches and securing an early lead of 8-6. But the tide turned on day two, as the North American team rallied in the singles matches.

Fuelled by determination and perhaps a little pre-round pep talk, they delivered a stellar performance, scoring 15.50 points to Team International’s 12.50. The comeback sealed

their victory and sparked jubilant celebrations that spilled from the 18th green to the clubhouse.

The Provo Ryder Cup format spans 36 holes of match-play competition, pitting North American golfers against their International counterparts. Day one is all about teamwork, featuring four-ball matches where pairs compete, with the best individual net score from each pair counted per hole. Day

two shifts to the high-pressure intensity of singles matches, where every player has the chance to shine (or sweat). Match Play rules were in effect, awarding one point for a win, half a point for a tie, and zero for a loss. If the two teams had tied after both days, the Defending Champion North America would have retained the cup—but no matter this time, as they claimed it outright!

This year’s event saw 56 players compete in total, all vying for the glory of bringing home the cup. The North Americans were expertly led by Captain Nik Lashley and Assistant Captains Rob Ayer & Mike Adamo, while the International team was helmed by Captain Kurt Rivers, with Assistant Captain Chris Gornall offering his invaluable support and strategy.

While the International Team fought valiantly, they continue to lead the overall Ryder Cup rankings 21-11, adding yet another chapter to this exciting rivalry.

According to information from the club, “A huge thank you goes out to Joe Zahm, Denise Douglas and the entire team at Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, who has proudly sponsored this event for the past 12 years, making it possible for this beloved competition to continue growing in prestige and excitement.”

Congratulations to the North American team for their hardfought victory and hats off to Team International for an incredible showing. To all the players, whether you were out on the course or patiently waiting on the reserve list, thank you for making this year’s Ryder Cup one to remember. Here’s to another year of friendships forged, rivalries renewed, and unforgettable moments on the greens. See you in 2025—game faces on!”

The North American team recorded another victory

Sports National

Hurricanes, Pirates and Canadiens register emphatic

PHL victories

The Turkberry Hurricanes, the Projetech Pirates and the L’Heureux and Co Canadiens registered convincing victories in week two of the 2024-25 Provo Hockey League (PHL), which was played last Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre in Providenciales.

After a 10-2 win against the Twa Marcelin Wolf Lightning in week one, the Hurricanes surged to a 9-4 win against the Ritz Carlton Flyers in the Bantam Division. In their latest victory, Damian Rutherford proved his dominance with five goals, support came from Yash Ochani with two goals and Ryan King with a goal and an assist. The Flyers were led by Kale Luke

with three consecutive goals, while Elodie Gaudet added the other.

The other Bantam Division clash proved to be a lot more competitive with the Twa Marcelin Wolf Lightning and the Temple Financial Panthers battling to a 4-4 draw.

The Lightning were led by Lennox Losinske, who scored a hat-trick and Oisin Ryan; while the Panthers’ Connor Bromley led his team with two goals and an assist. Support came from Tyler-Wake Forbes and Shlok Ganglani.

In the Novice Division, the Pirates raced to a 7-0 victory against the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders.

Tristan Ledaridor led the attack

with a hat-trick, while Evan Luker, Evan Pollon, Rex Parker and Fred Parker added the others.

The other Novice battle finished as a 3-3 draw between the Design Studio Jets and the Saunders and Co Greyhounds. Wyatt King led the Jets with two goals, while Tejas Gururaja added the other along with an assist. Kai Henry scored twice for the Greyhounds, while

Omar’s Cricket Club and Beaches CC registered victories on the opening day of the Turks and Caicos Cricket Association’s (TCICA) inaugural T-10 competition on Sunday last at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.

In the opening clash, Omar’s defeated the Police by 37 runs.

Omar’s batted first and scored an impressive 135-2 from their allotted overs, with Rohan Hines leading the attack with 42 runs (6x4s, 1x6).

D. Hardware, supported with an

Harvey Arthur scored a goal and made an assist.

In the Junior Division, the Canadiens defeated the Tibor’s Sharks 5-0.

Keith Higgs led the winners with two goals, while Lucas Emery, Nathan Affleck and Aiden Bromley added the others.

In the other Junior Division clash, the Kavnar Oilers and the

Parrot Cay Canucks battled to a 5-5 draw. Owen Barkworth Knight led the Oilers with two goals, while there was one each for Estheban Couture (also an assist), Jack Henry (also an assist) and Jaden Julien.

The Canucks were led by Liam Redstone with three goals. Felix Arnth Jensen and Rishith Gururaja added the others.

unbeaten 32 (2x4s, 1x6).

In reply, Police fell short at 98-5 from their 10 overs.

Alpha Edwards led the Lawmen with 31 runs (4x4s, 2x6s) while Kareem Jack added 18 runs.

Bowling for Omar’s, Robert

Johnson, Marlon Turner, and Xavier Scott took one wicket each.

In the second clash, GK Foods reached 100-7 after winning the toss.

Ashu Kumar led with 18 (3x4s).

Bowling for Beaches, Sidue Hunter took 2-37, with Anthony

McKnight, Claude Williams, and Kenneth Lewis taking one wicket each.

Beaches then reached 103-3 wickets from 9.1 overs. Hunter and Ricardo Brown top scored with 16 runs each.

L’Heureux and Co Canadiens defeated the Tibor’s Sharks 5-0.

Omar’s CC won the opener

Beaches registered a seven-wicket win