TC Weekly News September 16 - 22, 2023

The latest air ticketing data analysis by ForwardKeys predicts significant growth

TCI maintains double-digit growth in arrivals for Q4

BY DELANA ISLES

Turks and Caicos Islands is among the top four Caribbean destinations which can expect to see significant and continued growth in its international arrivals in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The latest air ticketing data analysis by ForwardKeys predicts significant growth not just for the TCI, but in many Caribbean destinations.

ForwardKeys predicts a 29% growth in visitor arrival in the fourth quarter for TCI, with the Dominican Republic, US Virgin Islands and Curaçao, leading with growth rates of 54%, 39%, and 31%, respectively.

TCI’s year to date growth percentage is a 14% increase on its performance in 2019, with the overall Caribbean inbound travel expected to increase by 15%.

While couples still make up the largest group size in the Caribbean at 43%, group travel (over 10 people) is making a comeback with a rebound of 39% compared to 2019, the agency noted.

Head of Market Intelligence at ForwardKeys, Juan A. Gomez said this week that group travel is rebounding the strongest in the Dominican Republic 100%, Sint Maarten 41%, and Aruba 39%.

This, he said, is being driven by travellers from the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

The revival of Caribbean travel heavily relies on the USA and Canada; however, the European market remains key.

“The Dominican Republic stands out among its competitors due to its excellent connectivity with both intra and extraregional airline carriers, which greatly contributes to its strong

performance,” Gomez noted.

The US and Canada make up most bookings to the region, with Canada being the top-growing origin market for premium cabin travellers, according to the latest air ticketing data from ForwardKeys.

In addition to the TCI, affluent travellers are also flocking to the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica.

ForwardKeys’ Market Intelligence Head stated that not only are more high-end travellers arriving from Canada, but they are also embarking on more stays of 14 nights or more – up by 75% - when travelling to the Caribbean, which

opens the door to multi-destination trips.

The US Virgin Islands, Martinique and Jamaica have seen the biggest growths in long stays over 14 nights at 25%, 24% and 15% respectively.

Gomez said the next origin source market to watch is Latin America, which represents 13% of all bookings, but is a region which is growing very fast, with bookings +65% ahead of 2019 levels.

“European origins have lost share due to reductions in capacity and thus a resultant rise in airfares, and the strength of the USA outbound market. On the other

hand, opportunity arises from the growing connections out of Latin America to the Caribbean,” Gomez related.

He added that Latin American countries have been boosting capacity to the CaribbeanColombia +157%, Brazil +187%, Mexico +55%, and Peru +13%and all are showing strong growths and audiences interested in a Caribbean holiday.

Gomez noted that the islands with better flight connections can expect to see a boost in tourism and hospitality as it appears many travellers are seeking out the warm sunshine in the Caribbean this Autumn.

TCI landlords urged to register for business licenses

The Inland Revenue Department has reminded landlords in the Turks and Caicos Islands that the rental of both short and longterm accommodation units is a business activity enshrined in law, and therefore a business license is required.

details of the lease (the duration of the lease, the start date, and the rental amount), including the names of the lessor and lessee.

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The Turks and Caicos Islands’ Inland Revenue Department is mandated to register all businesses in accordance with section 3 of the Business Licensing Ordinance (“Ordinance”).

For the avoidance of doubt, section 3 (1) Ordinance states, “Subject to this Ordinance, no person shall carry on any business in or from within the Islands unless he holds a current license issued under this Ordinance authorising him to carry on that business”.

The department in a statement on Thursday, September 7, 2023, explained that rental of both short and long-term accommodation units is a business activity captured

TCIG Inland Revenue Department logo

under the Ordinance.

“The business license fee schedule highlights the apartment rental fee of $20 per unit per year.

“Further, any lease over two years should be registered at the Land Registry in accordance with the Registered Land Ordinance.”

The Department further explained that upon registration, a leasehold register is created with

“Persons and/or entities who are registered lessees can apply and pay for a certified copy of the leasehold register to show proof of the registration of their lease. Certified copies of the said leasehold registers are signed solely by the registrar, deputy registrar and assistant registrar and deemed to be a true copy of the leasehold register and a reflection of what is on record at the land registry.

“This certified copy of the leasehold register is presented to the Business License Department within the Inland Revenue Department upon application to show proof of ownership.”

The Inland Revenue Department stressed that this is a reminder as the relevant provision in the Ordinance has been enacted since 2015.

Turks and Caicos Islands ranks high for passenger arrivals for the fourth quarter (Photo: ForwardKeys)

LOO says PNP government “out of touch and out of ideas”

– calls Throne Speech “empty”

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood says the government’s 2023 Throne speech is devoid of “exciting” plans and vision for the Turks and Caicos Islands people and the territory’s economy.

Hon Astwood expressed these sentiments in his rebuttal to the Washington Misick-led government’s throne speech delivered by the Governor HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam during the opening of the House of Assembly on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at the Helena Jones Robinson High School.

The ceremonial speech from

the throne is intended to outline the Government’s vision for the country and the people during the new session of the House of Assembly, but according to Astwood, the speech was uninspiring.

“The Throne Speech- usually articulate some indication of something new, something exciting, this is probably the emptiest throne speech that I can recall…. there is so little about the economy”, Astwood said in his response.

He stressed that the government failed to give an overarching message for the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“It lacks ideas or purpose,

without a guiding principle or a road map for delivery, this shows just how far out of touch this government is.”

The Opposition Leader underscored that after a few months of passing the biggest budget in TCI’s history, the average man is still struggling to make ends meet.

He said: “Mr. Speaker, times are hard for many of our people, much harder than they should be.

“Turks and Caicos Islanders and residents are tired of being told one thing, only to realise that this government will do something very different.”

He continued: “Mr Speaker, this is supposed to be the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands,

instead, we have a government that thinks and behaves like, it’s the government of the United Nations of Special Interest Groups.”

Astwood who is also the Member of Parliament for Grand

Turk South said the nation’s capital has been “badly neglected”, as well as other islands and called out the government for reneging on its

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OT leaders meet in preparation for upcoming Joint Ministerial Council meeting

BY OLIVIA ROSE

A delegation of leaders from the British Overseas Territories, including the Turks and Caicos Islands, recently convened in Gibraltar, for preparatory work with a view to the next Joint Ministerial Council with the UK in November.

On Thursday, September 7, 2023, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick arrived in Gibraltar with other British Overseas Territory leaders, according to the office of the Premier.

The meeting in Gibraltar allowed leaders for overseas territories to engage in preparatory work ahead of the Joint Ministerial Council (JMC), to be held in the United Kingdom in November 2023.

Premier Misick, along with several other UK Overseas Territory representatives, also attended a Ministerial Summit

at No 6 Convent Place hosted by Chief Minister of Gibraltar, Fabian Picardo.

In addition, Premier Misick participated in a round table discussion hosted by the Deputy Chief Minister under the theme: “UK Overseas Territories and the Constitutional Challenges they Face”.

The annual Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) brings together political leaders from the Overseas Territories and UK Ministers. It will meet this year in London from 26 - 27 November and will be hosted by FCO Minister for the Overseas Territories Mark Simmonds MP.

The JMC is the principle forum for reviewing and implementing the shared strategy for promoting the security and good governance of the Territories and their sustainable economic and social development.

(L to R): Premier of the Turks & Caicos Islands, Hon Washington Misick; Premier of Anguilla, Hon Dr Ellis Webster, and Premier of Montserrat, Joseph Easton Taylor-Farrell Photo: Office of the Premier

Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood delivering his response to the Throne speech in the House of Assembly

LOO says PNP government out of “touch and out ...

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revitalisation promises.

He said: “Salt Cay –nothing, but repairs to a fallen-in bridge, Middle Caicos -Nothing, Half of Provo -particularly where our people reside- Nothing.

“Many communities in Provo have gotten nothing from this government, ask the people living in those constituencies, never before have our people have been asked to pay so much for so little.”

EMPLOYMENT WOES

The Opposition Leader further lambasted the government for its slothful approach to filling Government vacancies and the lack of recruitment of skilled Turks and Caicos Islanders to these positions.

“Mr Speaker governments like to claim that it is addressing the critical shortage of skilled workers, and we heard that today, that is facing our country.

“Yet in just three short years the Hotel and Tourist industry would be in desperate need for… workers, as new hotels and expansions come onto stream.

“It is estimated that the government will need some 300... To fill vacancies and replace those going into retirement.”

He opined that the government has done very little to prepare the workforce to meet those demands.

“In fact instead of working with college graduates and apprenticeship programmes and obtaining journeyperson certificationwe are still hearing of qualifications not being recognized in our country…and repeatedly, we hear that trained Turks and Caicos Islanders, are not being prioritised on resource-based jobs in their own communities.”

PDM Government

Astwood argued that the PNP Government is not only “out of touch” but is also out of sound ideas necessary to take the country to the next level.

He told the House of Assembly, that a People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) government would work to restore a sustainable economy buttressed by the will and desire of the Turks and Caicos Islands people.

He said: “This government has a history of ignoring the will of the people.

“With a PDM government that I lead, they know that they have to respect our people, they know that they have to respect our country.

“They know that I am coming to renegotiate the bad deals, they know that I am coming to repeal the bad deals.”

“With a PDM government that I lead, we’re going to get our institutions back, we’re going to get our land back, we’re going to get our country back.”

MORE POLICE REINFORCEMENT

A worrying increase in gang violence, homicides, and other criminal acts over the past few months especially on Providenciales has once again necessitated a need for reinforcement in the local police force. To this end, a dozen police officers, who are trained in various specialty areas from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, have been deployed alongside the Tactical Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) in their day-to-day operations to help curb the escalating crime situation facing the island.

What are your thoughts?

Intel is vital

Gang warfare; it should be handled like terrorism. If we don't win the community it can't survive. Intel is vital, and it is essential to be more frightening to them than the gang.

Bandage over a bleeding wound

This seems like putting a band-aid on a large bleeding cut. Would it not be more prudent to request that the UK send down a crack troop of soldiers with drones, dogs, special radar manned by them, helicopters, special utility vehicles and let them clean up all the areas harbouring these criminals? Common knowledge says these criminals are well known but no one wants to say anything for various reasons. We need to clean up not only the criminals here but those in the making. Those starting out young in gangs, also around the schools and clean those up and make it safe for our students, start defending our waters from illegal aliens entering by sea and pirating of boats and finally clear out all guns, drugs, and the criminals destroying our young people.

It is time to stop this now, TCI is such

a small country that it could be handled if enough manpower and will and determination were thrown at it. Do we really want to go down the road of no return as other larger countries are facing or do we take a stand now and finish this and go back to being safe, secure and not fearful?

Full-time support

We MUST employ these properly trained Bahamian police officers full-time while at the same time training our police officers in these specialty areas!!!

We need to clean up TCI by ourselves

Whilst we are very fortunate to have been able to benefit from the assistance of our neighbouring police force, and remain grateful for that assistance, it is fair to say that the increase in crime is something that we need to deal with ourselves. The Bahamas has its own issues and the loan of the officers last year did cause some persons to feel that the Bahamas Police Force has enough to deal with in the Bahamas and could not be spared to come and clean up

our problems.

It’s time we put measures in place to deal with the increase in crime here ourselves. With development comes social problems, this is one of them and something that should not be a surprise to anyone. We ought not to keep developing without addressing the social problems and then expect our neighbours to bail us out when those problems erupt.

Same tactics

Although Trevor Botting is gone the approach of the police force in the TCI remains the same. In light of the finding of massive firearms in the TCI, new types, the messages of the survivors on the force are still weak and ineffective.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Rodney Adams states “Again, I am appealing to all those young persons who might be influenced by or attracted to violent criminal activity, to consider the catastrophic consequences of such activities, not only for your families but those of your innocent victims. I want you to reflect on alternatives that would provide more acceptable outcomes for your valuable lives.” This begs the question of what kind of support and advice the “local and Caribbean top brass on the TCI Police Force” provided the former commissioners of police.

They should have been more effective in charting a new Course for the Force. Will this mean that the UK will insist on sending in more UK or Canadian Officers to run the Force? Tactical training will not help.

Grateful

The Bahamas played its part and helped to clean up the TCI last year, and it worked. Crime has risen tremendously in the Bahamas over the last few years, so this was not difficult for the visiting lawmen. The TCI needs all the help we can get and the Bahamas understands what to do.

Doing a good job

TCI is really in uncharted water. We have never been faced with this level of crime or this level of immigration problems. Haiti is spilling over and so are the rest of the islands. Let’s work together to enhance this country. Let’s respect the job that the lawmen are doing.

Opposition files for judicial review of DMMO bills

BY DELANA ISLES

The PDM is awaiting word from the court about its application for a judicial review related to two Bills that have dissolved the Tourist Board and introduced a $10 destination fee.

During a live-streamed press conference on September 7, Hon

Alvin Garland, PDM's Appointed Member in the House of Assembly, joined the party leader, chairman and deputy leader to speak on topical issues affecting the territory and update the public.

Garland gave an update about the legal action they had indicated in July they would have filed in court related to the Destination Management and Marketing Organisation (DMMO).

“We have proceeded with filing the application for a judicial review,” he updated last Thursday. “The judicial review is filed against the Minister of Tourism, the Premier and the Speaker of the House.”

The appointed member also highlighted some of the issues outlined in the application.

He said the introduction of two pieces of legislation related to the

dissolution of the Tourist Board and the introduction of a destination management fee to support the operation of the DMMO, are the central points of their submission.

The party contends that the Speaker of the House was wrong in allowing a motion by the Premier to have the bills go through all

three readings at the same meeting of the Assembly.

He said the motion was filed after the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Edwin Astwood did not consent, when the Bills were first introduced, to the Premier’s request that the bills go through the readings at the same time.

The Premier then followed up with a motion to allow same.

The PDM has submitted to the court that the decision by the Speaker to grant the motion was unlawful and not procedurally fair.

“We believe that in the interest of justice, the only recourse that is left is for us to seek a review by the court of this decision,” the appointed member said.

Garland said the application also examines the lack of meaningful consultation on the part of the government before the bills were even tabled in the House of Assembly.

The PDM’s court application is now with the court for them to decide on its merits on whether a judicial review will be conducted.

Garland also reiterated the historic nature and importance of the tourist board, as the party is still up in arms about its dissolution and replacement with the DMO.

He outlined: “The tourist board of the TCI is an institution of paramount importance to the tourism sector. It was established to promote, regulate and enhance the islands’ tourism industry.

“Since its inception, the tourist board has played a pivotal role in

showcasing the natural beauty, rich culture and unique attractions of the TCI. The board was officially established in 1990 under the Tourism Ordinance recognizing the potential benefits and the need for sustainable development of the Islands’ tourism resources. The government took a decisive step by creating the tourist board to oversee the growth and management of the tourist sector.

“By any account, the tourist board has been a success in promoting the TCI, as a leader in the industry and TCI frequently being referred to as the envy of the Caribbean.”

Meanwhile, as the court’s decision is pending, the two bills in dispute have already been passed in Parliament, with both of them coming into effect last July 1.

The Tourist Board is already well on its way to being fully dissolved, and the $10 destination management fee is already being applied.

That fee affects arriving passengers to the Turks and Caicos Islands, including returning residents and visitors, who will now be required to pay an additional $10 for each ticket booked.

Hefty penalty in place for violation of ‘National Shutdown Order’

BY DELANA ISLES

New Regulations come into effect on October 20, penalising residents and businesses up to a $10,000 fine or two years in prison upon summary conviction, for ignoring a national shutdown order issued by the Governor.

The new stipulations fall under the Disaster Management (National Systematic Shutdown) Regulations 2023.

As outlined by the regulations a national shutdown order can be given as a warning notification in the event of severe weather such as hurricane, tropical storm or other hazard that poses a threat to the Islands.

Whenever there is a warning notification in effect for the Islands, the Governor can issue a national shutdown order requiring the closure of businesses and services and restricting the movement of

persons within the Islands in order to prevent or reduce the potential loss of life or damage to property, infrastructure or the environment.

The Regulations outline that a person who fails to comply with the national shutdown order commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 or to a term of imprisonment for two years, or to both such fine and imprisonment.

However, there is a fixed penalty allowing police officers to first issue tickets to violators of the national shutdown order.

It states that a police officer may issue to the person who violates the order a ticket, and if the person desires to plead guilty to the offence alleged, he may produce such ticket to the Clerk of the Magistrate’s Court on or before the date and time specified, not being more than 28 days from the date or receipt of the ticket.

The ticket imposes a fine of $500 on an individual pleading guilty, and in the case of a business, a fine of $5,000.

The Regulations also outline that a person who has already been issued a ticket and fails to comply or appear in court in the stipulated timeframe can be issued a second ticket.

For violators who desire to plead not guilty to the offence alleged, and request the court to mitigate the fine, the ticket will operate as a summons to appear before the court at the date and time specified. If the individual fails to pay or appear before the court, they will be treated as if the fine had been imposed after conviction, thus be liable to a $10,000 fine and/or two years in prison.

Meanwhile, guidelines have been set out as to how the national systematic shutdown will be instituted.

The Guidelines provide for an orderly shutdown of the Islands following a warning notification and reactivation of the Islands following a shutdown.

A staggered approach will be adopted to ensure a systematic closure of the non-essential services in the public sector, to be followed by the private sector, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations,

communities and individuals. An All Clear and reactivation instruction will be issued when the danger has passed, and the emergency services consider the environment safe for residents and visitors to move around.

A national shutdown order will be issued if the Director of the DDME recommends that a shutdown order be issued in the interest of the Islands.

PDM Appointed Member, Hon Alvin Garland (PDM photo)

Education Ministry aims to counter teachers’ resignations in TCI

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands is experiencing an ‘unfortunate” rise in resignations by school teachers, a problem that the Ministry of Education is working feverishly to tackle.

“While our efforts to retain teachers are robust, we understand that some resignations are inevitable”, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services, Hon Rachel Taylor said at a recent press conference.

As schools in the TCI recently welcomed back students for the new term following a two-monthlong summer break, the Education Ministry is once again grappling with an ongoing teacher shortage.

Last year, just before the new school term resumed, some 10 teachers resigned from high schools in the TCI, which had further widened the shortage gap.

Hon Taylor said the government is making every effort to remedy this problem on a number of fronts with an aggressive recruitment and retainment plan.

“To counteract the unfortunate rise in teacher resignations, we are strengthening our teacher mentorship programme, where experienced educators will guide and support new teachers, creating a nurturing ecosystem within our schools.

“Additionally, we are conducting comprehensive exit interviews to gain insights into the

HezronH to showcase his work at Bahamas’ inaugural Art Fair

Local artist HezronH is set to participate in one of the most pivotal art fairs in the Caribbean –the FUZE Regional Art Fair, to be hosted at the prestigious Baha Mar.

The event is a highly anticipated part of the inaugural Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival, set to be hosted from October 27 to 29, at The Baha Mar Convention Arts and Entertainment Centre.

Hezron will be participating in the ground-breaking event with Black Pony, a representative gallery of Bermuda.

FUZE is a remarkable gathering intended to immerse attendees in the captivating world of Caribbean visual art, and with Baha Mar as its backdrop, the fair aims to bring together art aficionados and enthusiasts to celebrate the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region.

Hezron, known for his coloursaturated art and unique creative perspective, is set to showcase several works at FUZE after achieving curatorial acclaim during the Atlantic World Art Fair and on arts platform Artsy.

"I am thrilled and honoured to be participating in FUZE, the Bahamas’ first major art fair. It's a platform that will bring together

challenges faced by our educators.

“The information garnered will guide us in refining policies and improving working conditions”, she added.

However, for the new academic school year, Minster Taylor stressed that most of the government schools are fully staffed, and where there are vacancies, “these vacancies are being filled with suitably qualified teachers who are employed on a temporary basis.”

She said: “Our temporary teachers serve for a period of six months, and during this time, effort is made to fill the vacancy permanently.

“In the 2023-2024 budget, my Ministry was successful with

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diverse talents and perspectives in the regional world of art especially considering regional artists who do not have a supportive ecosystem for visual fine art,” Hezron told Weekly News.

“This opportunity is not only a chance to showcase my work but also to connect with fellow artists and art enthusiasts, fostering creativity and collaboration. I look forward to the experience with great anticipation and excitement which was made possible through Black Pony Gallery (Bermuda).”

He also believes the event will be an opportunity for artists to delve into the intricate tapestry of Caribbean art traditions, offering attendees a chance to explore and appreciate the depth and vibrancy of these visual narratives.

Central to FUZE's mission is the establishment of an art ecosystem that not only fosters the growth of artistic endeavours within the region, but also facilitates their seamless integration with fresh ideologies, untapped audiences, and emerging platforms.

The fair seeks to bridge the gap between local talent and international recognition, providing artists a unique opportunity to expand their horizons and reach

2023

FUZE

new pinnacles of success. Hezron’s participation in

FUZE underscores the event's commitment to showcasing the ingenuity and creativity that thrive within the Caribbean art scene.

Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services, Hon Rachel Taylor

BY DELANA ISLES

TCI economy has recovered fully from COVID downturn –

Governor says in Throne Speech

The Governor HE Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam on Thursday, September 14, delivered her first Throne Speech detailing the accomplishments and plans of the government.

The speech also signalled the beginning of the First Sitting of the First Meeting of the Third Session of the Twelfth Legislature of the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Governor outlined that the TCI economy has recovered fully from the downturn caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and over the last two and a half years has seen consistent growth.

“The unemployment rate is trending down, and we have nearly wiped the slate clean of debts, with unsecured debts of $861,000 in the last quarter,” she stated in her speech.

Former

Also, the National Wealth Fund stands at $50.8m.

She noted that the fund is valued at about 4% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is distrusted in four specific ways: The Stabilisation Fund has the lion’s share with $30.7m; the Infrastructure and Competitiveness Fund has $8.8m, the Heritage Fund has $4.3m and the Citizen's Empowerment Fund $7m.

The Governor stated that the first project of the Citizen’s Empowerment Fund is the creation of the National Credit Union to benefit all status holders and British Overseas Territories Citizens residing in TCI.

This, she said, is well underway.

Looking ahead, she said a comprehensive salary review is

solicitor

general of Jamaica is TCI’s newest Court of Appeal judge

The Hon Justice B. St Michael Hylton has been appointed as the newest Court Of Appeal judge in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Office of the Chief Justice announced the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

In 2022, His Lordship was appointed an acting judge of the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos, from July 1st to August 31st, 2022.

During that year, His Lordship also served as a member of the committee appointed by the chief justice to draft new civil procedure rules for the territory.

Justice Hylton O.J., KC is an attorney-at-law with a distinguished career in both the private and public sectors. A graduate of the University of the West Indies and the Norman Manley Law School, Mr Hylton spent the first 24 years of his professional life at one of Jamaica’s leading law firms.

In 2001 he resigned from the firm to accept the appointment as solicitor general of Jamaica, a

underway with implementation set for December. The same goes for the pension fund management.

The Governor said the intention is to open the programme in 2024 to interested private-sector participants.

The government is also promising better working conditions in the coming year, with several departments set to benefit.

Governor Daniel Selvaratnam also outlined that the government remains committed to its Vision 2040 plans that will draw the TCI closer to developed country status.

She said: “Vision 2040 is the TCI’s master plan to guide our development over the next fifteen to twenty years and it is dynamic and flexible. This plan is crafted in a way that facilitates consistent

monitoring and evaluation.

“Achieving the goals articulated in Vision 2040 requires strong leadership, belief in ourselves, partnership among all stakeholders and an ironclad commitment to stay the course.”

She further outlined infrastructural developmental plans for the seaports and airports, which are well underway.

Additionally, over $7m has been allocated to build a modern fibre optic cable to connect all the main inhabited islands from Providenciales to Grand Turk.

“This will link to international fibre cables giving us high-quality connectivity to the rest of the world. It will make telecommunications services more reliable and affordable,” the Governor said.

Other areas that will see further advancements – many of which have already been outlined in the past two years – are housing, roadworks, national delivery unit, constitutional advancement, Crown lands, the Destination Management and Marketing Organisation (DMMO), healthcare, education, youth affairs, sports development, social services, human capital investment, and e-government.

According to the Governor, the government is delivering and will continue to deliver to the people of TCI on these projects and programmes in the coming years. She noted that as they move to diversify the economy, ease of doing business and recalibration of the incentive scheme are paramount. Meanwhile, as it relates to crime and security, the Governor said the government is working hard to address the issues that have arisen over the past year.

position he held until he retired in 2007 to start his own firm.

His Lordship was Chair of the General Legal Council (the statutory body that regulates the legal profession in Jamaica) between 2010 and 2016.

He has also chaired other regulatory bodies including the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, the Financial Services Commission of Jamaica and the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority.

In 2016 he was appointed as a Commissioner of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission and served as its deputy chair between 2021 and his mandatory retirement in 2022 at the expiry of his second term as a commissioner.

His Lordship has written and published numerous legal articles and has made many presentations at conferences throughout the region and elsewhere including at the Commonwealth Law Conferences in Melbourne (2003), Livingstone (2019) and Goa (2023), and at the OECD/IDB Forum in Rio de

Janeiro (2004), the 24th Cambridge Symposium on Organised Crime, Cambridge (2006), the CALCA/ GLC 4th Biennial Conference in Sint Maarten (2016) and the OECS Regional Law Conference in Roseau (2017).

In addition to Jamaica, His Lordship has been admitted to the bars of Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, the British Virgin Islands and Belize. He has specialised in commercial and constitutional cases, and has successfully argued more than 35 appeals before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. His Lordship has also contributed

to Caribbean jurisprudence and the legal profession in various other capacities, including as a:

tutor at the Norman Manley Law School for more than 30 years;

member of the Rules Committee of the Jamaican Supreme Court; consultant to the drafting committee, Caribbean Court of Justice Appellate Jurisdiction Rules; member and coordinator, Commission of Experts drafting Guidelines/ Minimum Standards for the Commonwealth on Freedom of Expression, Assembly & Association (2002);

chair of an international panel on the Role of International Conventions and Other Multilateral Initiatives in the Fight Against Crime (Oxford, England, August 2002);

chair, Private Sector Organisation committee on the reform of insolvency legislation (2011 - 2015); and

Assistant Editor, West Indian Law Journal 2007-2014

In 1995 the Hon Justice Hylton was appointed Queens Counsel, and in 2006 he was awarded the Order of Jamaica in recognition of his contribution to law and public service.

The Hon Justice B. St Michael Hylton

Maintain a balanced school life – Focus on your schoolwork but do extracurricular activities too

It is back-to-school time. Do not take school for granted but find a way to maintain a balance. Some people focus on academics and do not have any interest in extracurricular activities.

Based on my personal experience, I think it is important to have a balanced life in school. You should not spend all your time studying and not doing anything else. That is not how life should be, otherwise, you may end up leaving school only knowing what you study in those areas but not knowing anything else. This is why I loved the liberal arts schools in the USA whereby all students must do other subjects (including extracurricular activities) other than their major.

You do not have to spend all your time studying. Studying is very important because you need to understand the subjects and so when an exam takes place, you do not have to be up all night the night before. However, you should take a break and enjoy your break. Do not study during your lunch or snack breaks. Do not study for

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.

hours at home and do not take a break. Taking a break is necessary in everything you do, otherwise, you will get burned out. Employees in the workplace take a break and you should do the same in school.

I rushed through college in three years. I took as many credit hours as possible in a semester and I took classes during summer. If I had to do it over again, I would have taken a break and completed my first degree in 4 years.

School life is not just about academics. A school life that focuses solely on academics is not healthy and it can also cause stress on other students who are not academic driven because not

everyone is academically inclined. I encouraged all schools to have extracurricular activities in the school. I avoided sports in high school, and I regret that so much. In addition to the extracurricular activities, you should acquire as much technical knowledge as possible so in the event you do not pursue tertiary education, you will be equipped to work in the workforce and also be able to do things for yourself rather than having to call a carpenter or a plumber everything something goes wrong at your house.

I know during exam weeks a lot of parents keep their children away from sports so they can

study. I think playing sports can help students to perform better because they will have some time to refresh.

When I was growing up, there was a lot of pressure to come first in a subject, so we spent hours burning the midnight oil. I know some schools have discontinued putting position on the report card and I think all schools should do that.

I think our focus should be on passing the subject. Some students may get As, some may get Bs, and some may get Cs. It is ok if you do not come first. The important thing is that you passed. Now if you don’t

pass, then you must keep trying. There is so much information in the public domain such as Google and you can use that information to help you pass the exam.

School life is very crucial for the development of anyone. Study. Work hard. Listen to your teacher. However, find a balance in your school life and if you do, I think you will enjoy going to school.

Parents do not rush their kids through school and do not pressure them to focus on academics only. I observed too many people who did so well in High School or college, but they know very little about other perspectives in life.

Haiti’s troubled path to development:

An attempt to mobilise the Haitian Diaspora in the TCI to encourage homeland investment

Haiti is a country characterised by immense emigration flux, mostly to North America and the Dominican Republic, with a sizeable community in the TCI – some in search of economic freedom, connecting with families, and higher education, and lately, more are escaping Haiti’s ongoing political unrests and rampant human rights violations.

Since breaking free from French colonial rule over two centuries ago, Haiti has weathered a myriad of foreign interventions, chronic political inconsistency and catastrophic natural disasters.

And despite being formerly dubbed the wealthiest colony of the Americas, the confluence of these constraints has metamorphosed Haiti into the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and resultantly, the island nation is struggling to meet its economic and social development targets.

Considering these limits and the large Haitian presence in the TCI, I am loudly calling for

BY D MARKIE SPRING

Haitian Diaspora engagement programs, designed to assist their hometown in the face of socioeconomic and political turmoil, which are spurring mass migration problems.

These programs must ensure that the policy framework contains strategies of the national spatialeconomic development plan, as nationalistic appeal and Diaspora consciousness do not always lure members to make indirect contributions to their country of origin.

Observers also believe, that to enhance the Diaspora engagement policy for Haiti’s development;

first, there should be a better understanding regarding the reasons Haitians are vacating their country; coupled with, their capacities – educational and financial – the path they undertake and how are they able to contribute.

The politics of repression from the Duvaliers’ regimes – “Papa Doc and Baby Doc” – from 1957 to 1986, and Haiti Governments’ failures in the last 3 decades have not only electrify the departure of skilled professionals but catapulted mass exodus of Haitians.

The downside is, that these

movements have created a ‘brain drain’ and as the Creole Republic loses skilled professionals to developed countries and multinational corporations, it added to Haiti’s economic downfall.

The upside to this is, as globalization opens doors for new opportunities, these skilled Haitians are taking advantage of those possibilities and; therefore, they are encouraged to extend help to the less fortunate back home.

Consequently, Haiti’s current political debacle should lure the diasporic population in the TCI to reassert themselves, as a key partner in rebuilding their country’s troubled economy.

Considering that the country does not have access to the international capital market like other nations, transnational actors can optimize ‘diaspora bonds’ – an inexpensive and secure source of external finance – which provides opportunities for investments.

And on account of Haiti’s weak governance and high

sovereign risk, issuing ‘diaspora bonds,’ may require backing from institutional capacity building and credit enhancement from bilateral agencies.

But beyond the transfer of remittances to extended families, Haitians abroad – emigrants and descendants – must stimulate trade and foreign direct investments to create business opportunities and entrepreneurship, while redirecting new knowledge and skills.

According to the IMF, through various channels, these competencies can foster the design of Haiti’s education curriculum, and offering these types of training will certainly advance the nation’s quality of education and productivity.

Since the Haitian Diaspora here maintains strong cultural ties to ancestral, ethnic and religious communities in their homeland, these associations serve to emphasize their memberships and; therefore, all they need to do now is act!

D Markie Spring, a TCI resident of 15 years, is an expert in law enforcement. He worked as a detective in the Royal TCI Police Force and was director of security at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics

The triumph of justice in an unjust world reflections on Psalm 9

At one time or the other, we have all faced instances of injustice. At times it feels like the world is marked by injustice and suffering, especially at the hands of the powerful and mighty. Finding hope can be a daunting task. However, the words of Psalm 9 give us hope. We will one day see justice.

PRAISING GOD

It is interesting that the writer of this Psalm, David according to many scholars, begins with praise. Look at these words – “I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvellous things you have done. I will be filled with joy

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.

because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.” This opening of the Psalm is a tonesetter. As it places justice in the realm of the wonders and goodness of God. To see justice, we must first see God’s goodness. Yes, even

when the injustices of men seem to be prevailing. Praise gives us perspective when the courts of the land fail. God is good.

TRIUMPH OVER ENEMIES

As the psalm unfolds, we witness

the powerful theme of divine justice. The psalmist recounts how their enemies retreated and perished when God intervened. This vivid imagery illustrates the belief in divine intervention and the triumph of justice over oppression.

Look at how the writer puts it; “But the Lord reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne. He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness.” Injustice may reign for a season, but God will reverse it.

GOD IS THE REFUGE FOR THE OPPRESSED

“The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you”. God is as a refuge for

Physical intimacy – Why is it so important?

Is intimacy before marriage as wrong as they make it out to be?

Whatever your belief may be, most modern couples believe that one of the ways to get to know their partner is by getting intimate. We will leave the topic of intimacy before marriage for a different day. But what about “touching”? How important is it to foster a habit of physical intimacy in your relationship? Do not worry, I have a list for you.

Let’s be clear though, the concept of getting intimate does not mean having intercourse. For this purpose, physical intimacy means being swept over by your partner's love and warmth, by a single touch, a hug or a kiss. When there is no form of intimacy in a relationship, it begins to crumble and fall.

This week, we are double things! Instead of eight reasons, here are 16 reasons why you should touch your partner more. Unless he or she specifically says no, showing a bit of affection never goes unnoticed. I am dying for it right now!

IT HELPS YOU CONNECT

It helps you connect with your partner in ways you would never imagine. Touch him, touch her. Do not measure it. Give it freely. Give if often and give it plenty.

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

THE SECURE FEELING

By getting intimate with your partner, you tend to feel secure in this big wide world. When s/he wraps their arms around you, the feeling is indescribable.

MAKES YOU FEEL IMPORTANT

When you are held in your lover's arms, it somehow makes you feel that you are important. In fact, if you are not important in your relationship, what's the point then?

WATERS YOUR RELATIONSHIP

One of the many reasons why physical intimacy is important is because it helps to strengthen the bond of love. Deepens your romance with more affection. I love it for you.

GETS YOUR HORMONES

magical! There are no words to describe how a lover's kiss can change your life.

TAKES AWAY THAT STRESS

If you are bogged down with stress, getting intimate can help you get rid of that tension. Getting intimate with your partner in a relationship makes you feel so light in the heart if you minus the heavy pounding of excitement beating through your chest.

One of the reasons why physical intimacy is important is because it adds spice to your relationship. It brings that special feeling into the relationship, especially in long-term relationships.

MAKES YOU FEEL WANTED

Rushing

The touch of a loved one's fingers running down your cheek or holding your hand can give you excitement. It makes the whole body shiver!

FEELING OF ONENESS

Getting intimate with your partner makes you feel like you're one in body and spirit.

THE TOUCH OF LOVE

Who doesn't want to feel their partner's love and warmth? Only by getting physical with each other can one feel it.

SENSE OF BELONGING

It gives you a sort of assurance that you belong with him or her after you get intimate in a relationship.

POWER OF A KISS

The power of a kiss is certainly

NO MORE FEELING LONELY

When you get physical in a relationship, there is no sense of feeling lonely as you know your partner's shoulder is there to lean on.

TO SHOW CARE

Getting intimate in a relationship is one of the ways to show your care and concern for your partner with a touch.

IT SOMEHOW LESSENS PROBLEMS

When you are held in your partner's arms or being kissed, doesn't it take away all your burdens? It makes you float, forgetting the existence of problems.

ADDS THAT SPICE TO LOVE

When you are in a relationship, there comes a time when you want to feel wanted by your partner. This is when you actually think that physical intimacy matters.

REMINDER THAT YOU'RE THE ONE

It is a gentle reminder that you are the one for your partner. It is through that magical kiss or hug, you get to know you want to be only kissed and held by this person.

THANK YOU: A MIXED NERVE, FOR THESE INSIGHTS.

Sourced: https://www.boldsky. com/relationship/love-andromance/2014/twentyreasons-why-physical-intimacyisimportant

What do you think of PDAs? Yes or nah?

Do tell on louisedens@gmail. com

TCI hosts anti-money laundering seminar

The Turks and Caicos Islands government is making a concerted effort to provide capacity building to the relevant law enforcement agencies and to continually enhance the systems in place to combat the scourge of money laundering.

To this end, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, in collaboration with the Attorney Generals Chambers and the Financial Crimes Unit, hosted its second Anti-Money Laundering seminar series on September 5th and 6th, 2023, at the Ethel Ingham Training Center.

As a member and a former Chair of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to ensure that all actions are taken against money laundering, terrorist financing and the financing of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

In addition to the facilitators, participants present were members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the Integrity Commission and the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services.

The training was very interactive and practical and covered several key areas, including; TCI antimoney laundering framework, the fundamentals of money laundering, cash seizure and detention, forfeiture, confiscation and civil recovery.

The Hon Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles,

OBE, KC and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Eugene Otuonye, KC, brought opening remarks.

Presentations were made by the Deputy Attorney General, Khalila Astwood and Principal Crown Counsel, Mrs Shayone Gardiner, from the Attorney General Chambers, members from the ODPP, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Angela Brooks, Principal Public Prosecutor, Clement Joseph and Senior Public Prosecutor (ag), Enjaleek Dickenson. Inspector Paulin Nemours of the Financial Crime Unit also made a presentation.

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

Do you have a subject of interest that you’d like to share with our readers?

Perhaps you’re a great cook and have created lots of delicious recipes that use local ingredients. Maybe you have ideas on how to save money when shopping and know where to find all the latest bargains. Or are you an entrepreneur who would like to share tips on setting up a new business?

We need regular contributors of 400 word articles on a variety of topics

for our Lifestyle pages. Get in touch with us at the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and pitch your idea for a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly column. You will have your name in print along with your business contact details if requested. It’s a great way to share your knowledge and promote your business or start-up.

Mr Eugene Otuonye, KC, Director of Public Prosecutions brought opening remarks at the training seminar- TCIG Photo

Organiser of the AML Seminar Series, Dr Angela Brooks, Deputy Director of the Office of the DPP- TCIG Photo

Hon Rhondalee Knowles, OBE, KC, Attorney General brought remarks at the training seminar- TCIG Photo

New e-records system churns out over 6,000 police records

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In just 10 weeks, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has churned out some (6618) police certificates, with the help of a newly introduced online platform.

This record-breaking feat comes as the government is endeavouring to digitalise a number of key public services in the Turks and Caicos Islands under the highly touted e-governance initiative.

To this end, the police e-records platform recently launched a beta testing phase of a new automated system to improve the turnaround time for residents to obtain police certificates and it is delivering results, according to the Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Hon Erwin Jay Saunders.

The digitalisation project which was spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and the Information Technology team is being hailed as a welcomed change to a process that has been a vexing issue to many in the TCI.

For years, residents have bemoaned the long queues to make an application and the lengthy wait times before those applications are processed.

In a brief update to the media, the Deputy Premier said the

application to digitalise the records cost approximately $28,000 and it was delivered in “under three months”.

He said: “The application made back its full cost in under eight days.”

In a recent infomercial posted to the Premier’s Official Facebook, the Deputy Governor, Premier, Deputy Premier, and Deputy Commissioner of Police all commented on the importance of the project and the impact it has had since its implementation.

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams said: “The government is working to improve service delivery through the recruitment and retention of key staff, the rollout of new policies and programmes and the digitalisation of services across every ministry in department across government.

“The police records program is the first program to benefit from the digitization policy, where we've now launched an online application process that allows you to be able to pay for the service online and to receive your police records in less than 72 hours.”

Premier Washington Misick said: “We have heard the frustration of long lines that people have been experiencing and we made a

The triumph of justice in an unjust ...

CONTINUED FROM  11

the oppressed and a shelter in times of trouble. This theme resonates deeply with those who have faced adversity, persecution, or hardship. It reminds us that, even in our darkest moments, we can find solace and strength in our faith, knowing that God is a source of protection and support.

CRY FOR JUSTICE AND MERCY

The writer is not afraid to cry out – “Lord, have mercy on me. See how my enemies torment me. Snatch me back from the jaws of death. Save me so I can praise you publicly at Jerusalem’s gates, so I can rejoice that you have rescued me.” The psalmist implores God to have mercy and to rescue them from the torment

commitment that we will deal with it.

“That is the beginning of a whole stream of digitalisation certification that you will see going forward.”

Deputy Premier Hon Erwin Saunders explained that the issue grew more pronounced in January of this year and people were lamenting the laborious process to receive their certificate of character which is an official document issued by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force to verify whether a person has any previous convictions recorded against him/her.

He said: “We realised how long

the lines were there and people were complaining a lot”.

He further explained that the new police records is replete with a QR code, to make it more convenient for residents to travel with.

“So when you travel, if you're using it for traveling, you get to the TSA agent in North America you don't actually have to pull out a piece of paper, just show the QR code and they can scan it and get all the details.

“So we're giving people more of their hours back to use for higher productivity…we’re making lives better.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Deputy Commissioner of Police

Mr Rodney Adams stressed that the new system has undoubtedly made the police record process more efficient for applicants and less burdensome on the force.

He said: “The new police record system, the beta testing that went live on the 28th of June, is a marked improvement to what they've had in the past, it means that within a week, persons can be guaranteed that they will have the records in their hands.”

The new system is being designed as a one-stop payment system where applicants will have the option of paying online the $10 Processing Fee and the $10 Stamp fees via debit or credit cards.

Education Ministry aims to counter teachers’ resignations in TCI

CONTINUED

increasing manpower aimed at addressing the staffing needs of our schools.”

Recruitment and Retention

Turning her attention to the ministry and by extension the government’s efforts to attract and retain teachers, Taylor said the government is exploring new remuneration packages.

She said: “Our teachers are the backbone of our education system. Recruitment and retention of exceptional teachers remain a top priority for us.

“We understand that the dedication and expertise of our educators directly impact the

quality of education.

“To attract and retain the best teachers, we, in collaboration with the Human Resource Management Directorate, have enhanced recruitment strategies by utilising other renowned recruitment agencies such as Teach Away.”

She further pointed out that the government is undergoing a pay and grading review which commenced in May of 2023 under the Deputy Governor’s Office.

The review is expected to last until November with plans to be implemented in December 2023, contingent on Cabinet’s approval.

“The last exercise, similar to this, was done under the Rufus Ewing Administration.

“In the Ministry of Education, we will continue to invest in professional development opportunities, improved working conditions, and a supportive work environment that aims to attract and retain the best teaching talent”, she said. Coupled with this, the ministry is also collaborating with educational institutions to strengthen teacher training, to ensure educators are equipped with the latest pedagogical techniques.

of their enemies. And so should we. When we see injustice in the land, our response should be to cry to God for mercy and rescue for the weak and powerless. When the rich and powerful face justice, it is often the providential hand of God raising up a rescuer to fight for the powerless. This plea for justice and compassion echoes the universal human desire for fairness and relief from suffering.

In a world that often seems fraught with injustice, suffering, and adversity, Psalm 9 offers a timeless lesson: “The Lord is known for his justice … the hopes of the poor will not always be crushed.”

We have hope. Remember YOU ARE LOVED.

Second annual National Prayer Breakfast well attended

BY DELANA ISLES

The second annual National Prayer Breakfast was a well-attended event that brought together members from the clergy, political, social and business arena, as well as residents to fellowship under the theme ‘Restore. Revive. Renew’.

Hosted on Saturday, September 9, at the Beaches Resort, under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism and Religious Affairs, the event saw attendees assembling in one forum to generate ideas and suggestions and to fellowship.

Honourable Josephine Connolly, Minister with responsibility for Religious

Affairs welcomed the gathering with a scripture from Isaiah, Chapter 40, verse 31: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint."

Minister Connolly encouraged attendees to come together in prayer, remembering the importance of unity, compassion, and service to others.

Pastor Wilbur Jennings, President of the Christian Council in his remarks implored all to move forward in unity as a territory, especially for the young men of the TCI.

He also announced that the Christian Council, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Tourism have come together along with the chaplaincy programme to put in place a student support service initiative to ensure there are chaplains in every school.

He said: “In keeping with the Christian values of the Turks and Caicos it is the hope… to have every school within this country aligned with a chaplain.”

Pastor Jennings told the gathering that principals and teachers in TCI need the support of the clergy, encouraging the gathering to get behind the

proposed initiative.

“It is integral that chaplains play an active role in guiding our nation’s youth, we encourage you to become involved by expressing your commitment to actively participate in this initiative.”

In his remarks, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development, Hon. Jamell Robinson noted that in a world rife with challenges, “the act of coming together in prayer demonstrates our shared commitment to seeking solace, guidance and spiritual renewal”.

He stated: “Today, we gather not only to seek personal renewal but also to reflect on the broader

context of our nation, communities and the world at large. The theme of this morning's breakfast ‘Restore Revive Renew’ encapsulates a profound message of hope and resilience. It calls upon us to look inward and recognise the need for restoration in our own lives.”

Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam was also in attendance.

The occasion served as an opportunity to collectively give God thanks and praise for the safety and prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Prayers were led by members of the clergy, spiritual leaders, and government officials among others.

The second annual National Prayer Breakfast was well attended (Photo: TCHTA)

Minister Hon Josephine Connolly and Cadets during the event last weekend

Minister Hon Josephine Connolly and company at last weekend’s prayer breakfast

One year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death

King Charles III marked the first anniversary of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II last Friday, September 8, with a heartfelt tribute.

The late monarch died peacefully at the age of 96 at her Balmoral bolt hole on September 8 last year, months after her historic Platinum Jubilee celebrations marking 70 years on the British throne.

On the occasion of the anniversary of Her late Majesty’s passing and The King’s Accession, The King issued the following message: “In marking the first anniversary of Her late Majesty’s death and my Accession, we recall with great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us.

“I am deeply grateful, too,

for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all.”

The Governor’s Office of the Turks and Caicos Islands also acknowledged the occasion with a brief message: “Loved and admired across the world by each generation, Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II lived Her life in dedicated service to Her country, the Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth.”

Along with His Majesty's message, an unreleased photograph of The late Queen was issued.

The image of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was captured at Buckingham Palace on 16th October 1968, as part of

an official sitting granted to Cecil Beaton (190480). It was chosen by His Majesty The King to mark the anniversary, a statement from the Royal Family stated.

The image was first shown at the National Portrait Gallery between November 1968 and March 1969, as part of its first photographic exhibition ‘Beaton Portraits 192868’. This was also the first retrospective of the work of a living photographer in a British national museum.

Beaton first photographed Her late Majesty in 1942. He photographed Her late Majesty and many other members of the Royal Family across the decades but the 1968 sitting was their last sitting together.

Alongside His Majesty's message, an unreleased photograph of The late Queen has been issued.

Veni, vidi, vici - Salt Cay style

As I write these lines, 11 September 2023, it is almost six years to the day since Salt Cay had a continuous police presence on the island. This issue is not new to readers of this column, nor its predecessor, The Salt Cay Note, and I suspect it will not be the last time we discuss it. You might be thinking, “Wait a minute, Salt Cay does have a police presence again!” Indeed, in late May, a ceremony was held to welcome an officer from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIF) with great fanfare. The event was grand, featuring the Police Band, elected officials, top brass from the police force, and even the acting Governor. Numerous self-congratulatory speeches were made. Here’s the all-important caveat: that police presence was short-lived. Police Constable (PC) Stanley Been was stationed on the island for only a few weeks. He was followed by another colleague, but over time, sightings of our PC became increasingly rare. As of this writing, Salt Cay is, once again, without a permanent police officer.

When asked about the absence of a permanent police presence, Salt Cay’s relatively new District Commissioner was, to her credit, forthright, “I have spoken to my minister and the acting Commissioner of Police about this, and they told me that we will have a police officer back on island by 1 October”. I also reached out to the Acting Commissioner of Police for confirmation and asked whether there was currently a police officer assigned to Salt Cay. He replied via text, “Good Evening Mr. De Boer, no not at present. We hope to have it all finally sorted by 1st October”. While “seeing is believing”, I appreciated the prompt and straightforward response from both

BY TITUS DE BOER

Titus de Boer was born in Hamburg and spent his formative years in the West Indies. After a formal education in Germany and subsequent training as a journalist, he moved to the TCI in 1989. These days he works as a residency consultant for Titan Services. (www.titanservices.biz). Readers wishing to contact Titus with ideas and/or suggestions for columns, can to so on tdbtci@aol.com.

Misick, Hon. Deputy Premier E. Jay Saunders, Opposition Leader Hon. Edwin Astwood, Members of Government, Superintendent of Police (Community Policing and Divisions) Dwight Gardiner, past and present Permanent Secretaries, and residents of Salt Cay.

At the ceremony last May, Mr. Adams proudly introduced Constable Stanley Been to the Salt Cay community. "With over six years of service in the RTCIF, PC Been is a dedicated and experienced officer who has been assigned to serve your community," he said. "We are confident that he will provide the necessary support to ensure the island's safety and security."

Premier Misick also emphasised the importance of the occasion, stating, "Salt Cay has been asking for a police presence, and now we finally have one."

However, three months have passed since those assurances, and Salt Cay finds itself without a resident police officer yet again. The grand ceremony of that last day in May has faded into a distant memory. All the pomp and circumstance, it seems, were more ephemeral than the community's need for sustained security.

the District Commissioner and the Acting Police Commissioner.

As far as I am concerned this story is not so much about the urgency of needing a police presence on Salt Cay, an Island with a population of 50 souls, and more about the attitude towards the people here that makes it noteworthy. The people of Salt Cay are law abiding, peaceful individuals who have coped quite well without a police officer on island, for now over six years. And so of course it is more than plausible that, given the crime

situation in Providenciales, Salt Cay is not a priority for law enforcement officials. I think most people will understand that and, let’s be honest, Salt Cay, an island that epitomises and excels at selfmanagement, would somehow muddle on for another six years.

The underlying issue appears to be that some officials used the promise of restoring a police presence as a PR stunt to appease Salt Cay's residents, who are eager for good news. This was framed as a significant announcement, complete with a band, food, and

drinks, to maximize its public relations impact.

A short excerpt from an elaborate official press release speaks for itself: ***MEDIA RELEASE*** May 31st, 2023.

Police Presence on Salt Cay. The presence of an officer of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force was officially introduced to the residents of Salt Cay yesterday morning, (May 30th) in Salt Cay. Present at the event were Her Excellency, the Acting Governor Mrs. Anya Williams, Hon. Premier Charles Washington

The famed Latin one-liner "Veni, vidi, vici"—Julius Caesar's pithy way of saying "I came, I saw, I conquered"—typically denotes a quick, decisive win. But for Salt Cay's resident officer, it's less "I came, I saw, I conquered" and more "Veni, vidi, discessi"—"I came, I saw, I made a swift exit." And that late-May triumph? Oh, it was a victory alright, but think less Caesar's conquests and more a fleeting PR coup. So, here's to his imminent return—may it be as triumphant as a Caesar, and less of a vanishing act.

A rare sight on Salt Cay. The acting Commissioner of Police takes a Tour of the island. (Photo: Facebook/RTCIPF)

The Police Band performs in Salt Cay’s Community Centre, to celebrate the appointment of a resident Police officer on 30 May 2023. (Photo: Facebook/RTCIPF)

Police Constable Stanley Been introduces himself to members of the Salt Cay community. His stay on the Charmed Isle was to be short lived. (Photo: Facebook/RTCIPF)

Dickenson-Skippings appointed as Special Needs Coordinator of Assessments

The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands has announced the appointment of Mrs Lashaunda Dickenson-Skippings to the post of Special Needs Coordinator of Assessments in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services.

Mrs Dickenson-Skippings holds: a Bachelor of Education Degree in Educational Assessment from Mico University College (2011) and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Liverpool John Moore’s University (2023).

Her previous posts include: Special Education Programme Coordinator for Primary Schools in Zone II and Vice Principal of the Thelma Lightbourne Primary School.

Commenting on her appointment Mrs Dickenson-Skippings stated:

“I am grateful to be awarded the opportunity to work in the capacity of Coordinator of Assessments. I will continue in my best efforts to carry out my duties with integrity, excellence and faith in God as it is ‘He that worketh in me both to will and to do his good pleasure’Philippians 2:13.

I have recently completed my Master's Degree in Leadership in

Education, and I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education. Through God’s grace and mercy, I have given over a decade of faithful service to the education system of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

I am thankful to God for His faithfulness; He has proven His word to make all things work together for my good. I am grateful to my family and my local congregation for their constant support and prayers.

I am appreciative of my most recent empowering experience at the Thelma Lightbourne Primary School where I was given the opportunity to serve as Vice Principal, honing leadership skills and building lifelong relationships through teamwork. Lastly, I am thankful to the Deputy Governor and her team for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.”

Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service HE Anya Williams in extending congratulations to Mrs DickensonSkippings stated:

“It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Mrs Lashaunda Dickenson-Skippings on her appointment to the post of Coordinator of Assessments at the

Bahamas and Botswana sign MoU

The governments of The Bahamas and Botswana have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish Bilateral Political Consultation.

Bahamian Minister of Foreign Affairs Frederick Mitchell and his Botswanian counterpart Dr Lemogang Kwape signed the MOU today.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “The memorandum will strengthen relations, friendship and cooperation between The Bahamas and Botswana for mutual benefits and to achieve common goals on international multilateral and bilateral ties. Area of exchange includes but isn’t limited to economic, Cultural Relations, Tourism, environmental,

Special Needs Education Centre in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services.

This professional position has responsibility for providing guidance and expertise in the monitoring, implementation and coordination of the Special Needs Education Centre assessment programme.

The coordinator of assessments will oversee the rotation of assessments that are provided to students and will assist with IEP development for students presenting special needs across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Mrs. Dickenson-Skippings’ specialised training in the area of educational assessments will be an asset to this role. As stated when she was appointed to the post of Vice Principal of the Thelma Lightbourne Primary School, she is a compassionate, driven educator with a special motivation for children with special needs.

This is Mrs DickensonSkippings second promotion in two years while completing her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership assisted by the Public Service Professional Development Fund, and demonstrates her drive and commitment to education.

Agricultural, Health, Educational and financial services. The exchange of our expertise and experts will mutually benefit both countries by strengthening sectors in which we are looking to grow”.

Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi is paying an official visit to The Bahamas. Masisi and his entourage will be in The Bahamas until September 15.

After visiting the northern Caribbean country, Masisi will head to Cuba for the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 and China. Those meetings take place on September 15th and 16th.

He will then travel to New York City for the 78th United Nations General Assembly. (Loop News)

Mrs Lashaunda Dickenson-Skippings

Minister Frederick A. Mitchell (right) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with his Motswana Counterpart, Dr Lemogang Kwape. Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Bahamas’ first dengue death confirmed to be nine-year-old

Health officials confirmed the country’s first dengue fever death since the virus’ re-emergence this year - a nine-year-old boy who died after showing symptoms of the disease.

“He would’ve presented with a viral type illness but did not continue with the care that was provided and unfortunately, he succumbed to the illness,” Chief Medical Officer Dr Pearl McMillan said during a press conference at the Ministry of Health yesterday.

“We later got the results back and we know that it was dengue.”

Dr McMillan could not say why the child did not continue with his treatment.

“It could’ve been that they did not come back to the facility or they didn’t take the medications, but I’m saying to you that is what

boy

we would’ve been provided with,” she said.

The revelation came as health officials confirmed the country is experiencing an outbreak of dengue fever, with 88 cases and five hospitalizations confirmed to date.

The bulk of the cases - 80 - are in New Providence, while six cases are in Grand Bahama.

Health officials also confirmed one case each in Exuma and the Berry Islands, all of whom had a history of travel from New Providence.

State Minister for Environment Zane Lightbourne said teams will be deployed to the Family Islands this week to start fogging exercises as part of its mosquito control programme.

Meanwhile, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said

all hospitals and clinics are on high alert as “we begin to up our game in our fight against dengue.”

“Our teams have been educated and trained to look for cases that are potentially dengue cases, activate immediately, go into the necessary medical history and communicate directly with our surveillance unit who works very closely with the department of environmental health,” Dr Darville added.

“So, it’s a system that incorporates many healthcare

Island states seek climate protection from Law of the Sea

The prime ministers of two small island nations that face ongoing impacts from rising sea levels appeared at legal hearings at an international court in Germany on Monday, and are seeking an advisory opinion on the obligations of countries to combat climate change.

Prime Ministers Kausea Natano of Tuvalu and Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda gave evidence at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, which will consider whether carbon emissions absorbed by the ocean should be considered marine pollution, and what obligations nations have to protect the marine environment.

In addition to the small island states, countries including Germany, France, Saudi Arabia and Australia will speak at hearing sessions scheduled until September 25.

The tribunal will then issue an advisory opinion, which is not legally binding, but offers an authoritative statement on legal matters that could guide countries as they craft climate protection law.

“Today is indeed a historic day … As we seek to get answers to a couple of questions to determine the obligations of states parties,”

Antigua’s Gaston Browne said at a news conference following the hour-long hearing.

The prime ministers, representing the Commis-sion of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law (COSIS), argued that countries have an obligation to protect the marine environment under the UN convention on the Law of the Sea, including from greenhouse gas emissions.

“We come here seeking urgent help, in the strong belief that

international law is an essential mechanism for correcting the manifest injustice that our people are suffering as a result of climate change,” said Tuvalu’s Natano at the hearing.

Excessive carbon pollution results in damage to the oceans, including coral bleaching and acidification.

Low-lying island states like Tuvalu and Vanuatu are also at risk of becoming submerged by water by the end of the century due to slow-onset climate impacts.

professionals at the Family Island clinics at our hospitals as well as in the community to alert through education.”

He also noted the ministry is not considering bringing in dengue vaccines because dengue fever is not an endemic disease in The Bahamas.

“We reached out to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) to give us advice on the

possibility of vaccines and based on what’s being discussed, we believe not being an endemic area sort of excludes The Bahamas from a national vaccination programme for dengue,” Dr Darville said.

Most people diagnosed with dengue fever have type three of the virus - a form of the disease that could cause severe illness for people who previously had the first two serotypes of virus.

Reports are that at least 142 inmates died last year in Haiti, many by cholera and other infectious diseases

Caribbean nationals among foreigners detained in Haiti

A substantial number of foreign nationals, including those from the Caribbean are currently held in Haitian detention facilities, some on serious charges like drug trafficking and murder, with many of them not knowing if they will ever appear before a court.

Police Inspector General, Pierre René François, revealed to the Haitian-Caribbean News Network (HCNN) that at least 52 foreigners, including seven Colombians, 13 Jamaicans, 10 Dominican Republic, and two from the Bahamas, have been detained in several detention centers in Haiti.

The inspector shared with the HCNN that a number of the

detained Colombians are suspected to be involved in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.

The assassination of the former president at his private residence, was allegedly committed by a commando team, comprising mainly former Colombian soldiers. Reports are that some Colombians under detention refute the allegations, stating they were deceived into participating by the masterminds behind the assassination.

They claim their mission was to execute an arrest warrant against the then-sitting president.

(Caribbeannationalweekly)

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne

Health experts at a recent meeting in the Bahamas

Regional News

Bahamas’ 27% water heat surge ‘devastating’ to coral

The Bahamas’ July water temperature had “a devastating effect” on coral reef ecosystems after being heated to a level 27 percent higher than the monthly average, an international tribunal has been told.

This was cited to the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) as one example of how global warming, fuelled by greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, is undermining the ocean and marine environment of small island states such as The Bahamas.

Payam Akhavan, professor of international law and senior fellow at the University of Toronto’s Massey College, who is representing The Bahamas and other members of the Commission of Small Island Developing States in the action, said: “For example, this July, the water temperature around The Bahamas was above 38 degrees celsius – 38 degrees celsius – for several consecutive days, up from a monthly average of around 30 degrees celsius.

“This has had a devastating effect on corals, bleaching and killing them, on such an extensive scale that these fragile ecosystems may be wiped out entirely.” The Bahamas and other Commission members, including Antigua and Barbuda, Vanuatu and Tuvalu, are seeking the Tribunal’s affirmation that greenhouse gas emissions are a form of ocean pollution given their impact on global warming, rising sea levels and other climate change-related effects.

The aim is to hold major developed country emitters accountable for their actions, and to remind them of their obligations to

Hurricane Dorian had destroyed over 30% of the Coral in the Bahamas

clean-up their act and meet climate change related commitments. The Bahamas’ coral reef ecosystems, which form a critical foundation for the tourism and fisheries industries, face multiple threats as illustrated by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Sandals proposed Fowl Cay development in the Exumas.

“Coral species show some sign of disease, with approximately 15 percent to 25 percent exhibiting signs of a white fleshy film on the surface of the coral, which appears to be stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD). This needs to be identified before they are relocated and isolated from other corals for further treatment,” the EIA said.

“The coral communities were videotaped using a Go Pro camera in all survey areas. The initial indication was that the whole area appeared typical. However, on closer inspection there was live coral exhibiting white sections or

Dominican Republic to seal Dajabon border with Haiti in canal dispute

The Dominican Republic will seal its border with Haiti in its northern Dajabon province if a conflict over access to water from a shared river is not resolved in the coming days, a government spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Dajabon is one of the few remaining functioning borders between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, which has been tightening its border security amid worsening gang warfare in Haiti, deporting tens of thousands who fled the crisis.

The Dominican Republic will completely close off the border to land, maritime and air commerce if the conflict is not resolved by Thursday, Dominican authorities said in a statement, adding new visas for Haitians would also be suspended.

Construction work on a canal diverting water from the Massacre River had been started unilaterally by Haitians without support of the government, the statement said, adding this “clearly violates” a shared treaty.

what appeared to be sand covering sections of the coral. The coral species observed close to the proposed overwater structures showed similar white sandy patches and was also considered ‘suspicious’ for SCTLD.

“Upon further detailed investigation, it appears that Stony Coral Loss Disease (SCLD) is present in the offshore coral communities on small, isolated coral heads, in about approximately 15 percent of the corals. This needs to be continued to be monitored with an action plan developed to mitigate the spread of the disease.”

Rebecca Lightbourn, manager at Exuma Water Sports (EWS), yesterday said the corals reefs around Exuma are not as vibrant as they once were and warned that the negative effects of climate change will impact the entire country. She said: “There are still some spectacular reefs, but definitely even the last time I went out, I did

notice that it’s not as beautiful. It’s not as tropical, it’s not as bright as it used to be. And, unfortunately, this is something that is going to be a long-term effect of climate change. It’s got to be something that people start believing in because this is going to affect not just the tour companies; it’s going to affect all of us.”

The Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) and The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) said the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP) is experiencing one of the most drastic coral bleaching events in recorded history after completing an exploration of the area.

Their findings showed that up to 100 percent of corals are bleached in certain areas, while even the most resilient reefs show a 50 percent bleaching rate. They indicated that the ecological and economic implications of coral bleaching were “profound” as global coral

reefs contribute $2.7trn annually, with the reefs of The Bahamas alone potentially contributing up to $135m per square kilometre.

Ms Lightbourn said that for the past 17 years EWS has been offering tours around the Exuma cays and, while some reefs are still “absolutely spectacular”, others have lost their lustre. She added that many visitors are aware that other jurisdictions provide a better snorkelling experience so they no longer visit Exuma just to see the reefs.

She said: “We snorkel in the lower cays, just north of Great Exuma. There are still some reefs that are absolutely spectacular and better than I’ve seen in other places, but definitely there are others where you can just see that it’s not nearly as vibrant as it used to be.

“Snorkelling is always a nice bonus. It’s sad to say that people don’t necessarily come to Exuma for the snorkelling. People are almost well aware that there are other countries that are better for that now.”

Ms Lightbourn added that although visitors are becoming increasingly interested in ecotours, during which they can explore the beaches and interact with animals, there are still people who want to snorkel the area and are sometimes disappointed by the reality of the coral’s health.

She said: “People are much more into eco tours now and they really want to see wildlife. They’re interested in the sharks, and in the fish and the dolphins, and we’re fortunate that we use those things currently. We’re lucky that we have so many beautiful beaches and that really is the focus of our tours

Dajabon was one of the few remaining functioning borders between Haiti and the Dominican Republic

“The Haitian government has repeatedly admitted it does not have the capacity to resolve internal conflicts due to the loss of the Haitian state’s monopoly on force due to criminal organizations,” it

added.

“There is no doubt that this unilateral project is promoted by Haitian agents with the intention of harming their own government and generating a conflict with our

country.”

Santo Domingo, which first ordered the border closure in a preliminary move last week, said it will seek talks with Haiti to find a “definitive solution.”

NHS to introduce Martha’s rule for hospital patients

The health secretary is backing the introduction of “Martha’s Rule”, to ensure hospital patients know they have the right to a second opinion, and NHS England will begin work to action it.

On Wednesday, Steve Barclay met Merope Mills, who had raised concerns with doctors about her daughter’s treatment.

Martha, 13, had been admitted to hospital after falling off her bike.

An injury to her pancreas was serious but survivable. Within days, however, she had died of sepsis.

Mrs Mills told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme doctors had told her the extensive bleeding was “a normal side effect of the infection, that her clotting abilities were slightly off”.

The King’s College Hospital trust said it remained “deeply

sorry that we failed Martha when she needed us most” and her parents should have been listened to.

An inquest said she could have

survived had her care been better.

Mr Barclay told Today he was committed to bringing in Martha’s rule as quickly as possible.

“The case that Merope has set

out is compelling,” he told the programme.

“It is, I think, for everyone that’s heard it an absolutely heartbreaking case and I am determined that we ensure we learn the lessons from it.

“I particularly want to give much more credence to the voice of patients.

“And I think a key part of this measure is ensuring that patients feel heard and can get a second opinion.”

‘ADOPT QUICKLY’

Mr Barclay has asked the patientsafety commissioner to meet NHS leaders and learn from similar schemes abroad.

Ryan’s rule was introduced in hospitals, in Queensland, Australia, after the death of a boy who also had a poorly managed serious infection.

“There’s scope for us to move much more quickly in terms of paediatrics and ensuring, particularly in that area, we adopt quickly... but to do so in a way that’s easy to communicate to patients rather than having lots of different schemes across the country,” Mr Barclay told Today.

On Monday, NHS England medical director Prof Sir Stephen Powis said change was needed but different hospitals might need different approaches.

“Patient and relative voice is paramount,” he said.

“Over the last six months or so, we at NHS England have been working with a number of hospital across England to work out what sort of methodologies, what sort of processes, will ensure that that voice is heard when it needs to be heard.” (BBC)

Rogue Russian pilot tried to shoot down RAF aircraft in 2022

A Russian pilot tried to shoot down an RAF surveillance plane after believing he had permission to fire, the BBC has learned.

The pilot fired two missiles, the first of which missed rather than malfunctioned as claimed at the time.

Russia had claimed the incident last September was caused by a “technical malfunction”.

The UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) publicly accepted the Russian explanation.

But now three senior Western defence sources with knowledge of the incident have told the BBC that Russian communications intercepted by the RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft give a very different account from the official version.

The RAF plane - with a crew of up to 30 - was flying a surveillance mission over the Black Sea in international airspace on 29 September last year when it encountered two Russian SU-27 fighter jets.

The intercepted communications show that one of the Russian pilots thought he had been given permission to target the British aircraft, following an ambiguous command from a Russian ground station.

However, the second Russian pilot did not. He remonstrated and swore at his wingman when he fired the first missile.

The Rivet Joint is loaded with sensors to intercept communications. The RAF crew would have been able to listen in to the incident which could have resulted in their own deaths.

The MoD will not release details of those communications.

Responding to these new revelations an MoD spokesperson said: “Our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation and inform the public and international community.”

WHAT REALLY HAPPENED

As the two Russian SU-27s approached the RAF spy plane, they received a communication from their ground station controller.

One Western source told the BBC the words they received were to the effect of “you have the target”.

This ambiguous language was interpreted by one of the Russian pilots as permission to fire.

The loose language appears to have shown a high degree of unprofessionalism by those involved, sources said. In contrast, Nato pilots use very precise language when asking for and receiving permission to fire.

The Russian pilot released an airto-air missile, which successfully launched but failed to lock on to

its target, the BBC has been told. It was a miss, not a malfunction.

Defence sources have told the BBC that a row then broke out between the two Russian pilots.

The pilot of the second SU-27 did not think they had been given permission to fire.

He is said to have sworn at his comrade, effectively asking him what he thought he was doing.

Yet the first pilot still released another missile.

We had been told that the second missile simply fell from the wing - suggesting the weapon either malfunctioned or that the launch was aborted.

WHAT THE UK MOD SAID HAPPENED

Three weeks later, the UK government confirmed the incident had taken place - after an explanation from the Russian Ministry of Defence called it a “technical malfunction”.

In a statement to MPs on 20 October, the then Defence Secretary Ben Wallace called it a “potentially dangerous engagement”.

But he accepted the Russian

explanation, saying: “We do not consider this incident to constitute a deliberate escalation on the part of the Russians, and our analysis concurs that it was due to a malfunction.”

WHAT THE US SAID HAPPENED

However, a secret intelligence leak revealed that the US military spoke of what happened in more stark terms.

In a raft of documents, published online by US airman Jack Teixera, the same incident was described as “a near shoot-down”.

“The incident was far more serious than originally portrayed and could have amounted to an act of war,” the New York Times reported.

According to two US defence officials, the newspaper said, the Russian pilot had misinterpreted an order from the ground.

The Russian pilot “who’d locked on the British Aircraft, fired, but the missile did not launch properly.”

The newspaper also quoted an unnamed US defence official describing the incident “as really, really scary”.

In response to the leaked report of a “near shoot-down” the UK MoD issued another statement which added more fog than clarity.

The MoD claimed a “significant proportion of the content of these reports [from the documents] is untrue, manipulated or both”.

WHY THE SECRECY?

There may be several reasons why the UK’s MoD was reluctant to

give the full details.

First, the UK would not want to publicise the extent of its intelligence gathering and details of the intercepted communications.

More importantly neither side wanted an escalation - one which could potentially draw a Nato member into military confrontation with Russia.

But the incident does show, once again, how one mistake and miscalculation by one individual could spark a wider conflict.

The MoD has now told the BBC that “this incident is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of Putin’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine.”

This is not the first time a reckless Russian pilot has targeted a Nato aircraft in international air space.

In March earlier this year, a Russian jet brought down a US unmanned surveillance drone, also flying over the Black Sea.

In that incident the Russian pilot was awarded a medal, but most experts agree it was down to luck rather than skill or judgement.

It highlights serious questions about the discipline and professionalism of Russia’s air force.

Despite the near shoot down, the RAF has continued to conduct surveillance flights over the Black Sea - a testament to the courage of the crews who narrowly avoided a disaster.

Since the incident, these RAF surveillance flights have been escorted by Typhoon fighter jets armed with air-to-air missiles.

Merope Mills is calling for additional patient rights, following her daughter Martha’s preventable death in an NHS hospital

A Russian SU-27, like those pictured, released a missile near the RAF plane

Flooding death toll soars past 11,000 in Libya’s coastal city of Derna, aid group says

The death toll in Libya’s coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday

Marie el-Drese, the aid group’s secretary-general, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city. Health authorities previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500. The storm also killed about 170 people elsewhere in the country.

The flooding swept away entire families in Derna on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

WHAT HAPPENED IN LIBYA?

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in communities across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A UN official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

“If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings,” World Meteorological

Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. “The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.”

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Center issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm, and on Saturday, they ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

The startling devastation reflected the storm’s intensity, but also Libya’s vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade — one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli — and one result has

been the widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libya’s Tripoli-based prime minister, Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah, acknowledged the maintenance issues during a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams’ collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of eastern Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripolibased western government

allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

WHAT’S HAPPENING TODAY?

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libya’s health minister, Othman Abduljaleel earlier Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be

buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four meters (13 feet) high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

Libya’s eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, on Thursday approved an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars — roughly $2 billion — to address the flooding and help those affected.

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED?

As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing. However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudiowned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor AbdelMoneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighborhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, whose remains were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

Hunter Biden indicted on three federal gun charges

President Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, has been criminally charged with three counts of lying when buying a firearm, after a proposed plea deal collapsed.

The indictment marks the first time the child of a sitting president has been criminally prosecuted.

A planned plea bargain to resolve gun and tax-related charges he faced abruptly fell apart in July.

All three counts relate to Mr Biden, 53, allegedly lying on forms while buying a gun when he was a drug user.

Court documents show that Mr Biden lied on the federally mandated forms as he purchased a Colt Cobra Special revolver at a Delaware gun store in October 2018.

Prosecutors allege that he falsely claimed that he was “not an unlawful user of and addicted to any stimulant narcotic drug”.

He kept the gun for 11 days.

The investigation began after Mr Biden’s then-girlfriend threw the 38-calibre pistol into a rubbish bin

behind a grocery store.

If convicted, Mr Biden faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison, the justice department said in a statement. Actual sentences for federal crimes are usually less than the maximum possible penalties.

It is still unclear when and where Mr Biden’s initial court appearance will take place.

Mr Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, suggested the charges had been influenced by “Republicans’ improper and partisan interference in this process”.

He said his client’s possession of an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety.

“But a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to

political pressure presents a grave threat to our system of justice,” said Mr Lowell.

The lawyer maintained his client “did not violate the law”. “We plan to demonstrate all of that in court,” he added.

At the time of the gun purchase, Mr Biden was a heavy user of crack cocaine.

Under US federal laws, it is a crime to lie on such documentation, or possess a firearm while a drug user.

He previously acknowledged the charges during negotiations for the aborted plea deal, a two-part agreement that was struck between prosecutors and Mr Biden’s legal team in June.

The flood wiped out a quarter of the city

The indictment marks the first time the child of a sitting president has been criminally prosecuted

World News

Emma Coronel: El Chapo Guzmán’s wife released from prison

Emma Coronel, the wife of jailed Mexican drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, has been released from jail in the US.

She pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and was sentenced to three years in jail in November 2021, a sentence which was later reduced.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed her release.

It is believed the 34-year-old left a halfway house in California, where she was moved from federal prison in June.

Her husband is serving a life sentence in a supermax jail in Colorado.

Last month, he sent a handwritten letter requesting his wife and their two daughters be allowed to visit him in the maximum security prison.

El Chapo Guzmán, 66, was found guilty in 2019 of running the Sinaloa cartel.

The Mexico-based transnational criminal organisation is estimated by US law enforcement officials to have smuggled more than 1,000 tonnes of cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines and heroin into the US.

The cartel’s hitmen kidnapped, tortured and killed members of rival gangs to consolidate its power.

The Sinaloa cartel also bribed police officers and high-ranking politicians in Mexico and across Central America to turn a blind eye to drug shipments or even tip the cartel off about impending raids.

Emma Coronel first met Guzmán when she was 17 years old and competing in a local beauty pageant.

Her father, Inés Coronel, was a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa cartel who is currently serving a 10-year sentence in

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un to stay in Russia for several days

North Korea’s leader Kim Jung Un has unexpectedly extended his visit to Russia, where he was meeting President Vladimir Putin for a suspected arms deal.

The pair had discussed possibilities for military cooperation on Wednesday.

Mr Putin also “gratefully” accepted an invitation from Mr Kim to visit North Korea, a Kremlin spokesperson said.

Moscow is buying weapons for its war on Ukraine and any help would violate UN resolutions, the US has warned.

Mr Kim was warmly received by Mr Putin at the Vostochny space centre on Wednesday in Russia’s far east - the North Korean leader spent two days travelling there in his private luxury bulletproof train.

Russian state media footage showed the two leaders grinning as they shook hands, before Mr Putin personally escorted Mr Kim

around the space centre.

They also exchanged gifts, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Mr Putin gave Mr Kim a glove from a spacesuit “that had been in space several times” and a Russian-made rifle. Mr Kim gave Mr Putin a North Koreanmade gun, among other gifts.

Mr Putin returned to Moscow after the summit, but Mr Kim’s visit would continue for several days, Mr Peskov added without elaborating further.

The North Korean leader was expected to oversee a display of Russian warships, as well as visit several factories and stop by the eastern city of Vladivostok on his way home.

Wednesday’s meeting between the two sanctioned regimes took place at a time when their relations with the West are at an all-time low.

The two leaders discussed military matters and the war in Ukraine

In 2014, Guzmán was arrested after a 13-year manhunt and sent to the Altiplano maximum security jail in Mexico.

It only took Guzmán 17 months to escape again, this time through a tunnel complete with ventilation shafts and a motorcycle on rails which led from his cell to a nearby warehouse.

At her trial, prosecutors said Coronel had played a key role in her husband’s escape.

perfectly groomed, she smiled and waved to him from the public gallery.

She told the New York Times that she did not recognise the gruesome testimony given about her husband in court, instead describing him as “an excellent father, friend, brother, son, partner”.

When Guzmán was found guilty in February 2019, the couple gave each other the thumbs up.

Mexico for drug smuggling.

Guzmán was running the cartel from various hideouts in northern Mexico after he had escaped from prison in a laundry cart in 2001. They formalised their relationship in a ceremony when Emma Coronel was 18 - although it is not clear if their marriage was ever officially registered with the Mexican authorities.

Coronel, who holds dual USMexican nationality, travelled to California in 2011 to give birth to the couple’s twin daughters, a move which means the children have US citizenship.

She was also accused of having acted as a messenger for her husband both during his time on the run and behind bars, relaying orders to his cartel lieutenants and to his sons with his previous wives, who are known as the Chapitos (Little Chapos).

After his 2015 tunnel escape, Guzmán managed to evade capture for six months before Mexican special forces finally captured him outside Los Mochis, in his home state of Sinaloa. He was extradited to the US a year later and put on trial in New York.

Coronel made daily appearances in the Brooklyn courtroom.

Immaculately dressed and

Coronel remained free for almost another two years until her arrest at Dulles airport, near Washington DC, in February 2021.

Prosecutors said she was well aware of her husband’s criminal activities and “understood the scope of the Sinaloa cartel’s drug trafficking”.

She pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering. At her sentencing, Coronel asked for leniency for the sake of her children. “I beg you to not allow them to grow up without the presence of a mother,” she told the judge.

She was sentenced to three years in jail which were subsequently reduced, paving the way for today’s release.

during the summit - which Mr Kim appeared to express support for.

“Russia has risen to a sacred fight to protect its sovereignty and security against the hegemonic forces” of the West, Mr Kim said, telling Mr Putin he would “always support” his decisions.

Mr Putin also said he would help Pyongyang develop satellites, drawing concern in the US

that Russian help with satellite technology would improve the North Korean missile programme.

“That is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions” which Russia itself had voted for in the past, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said on Wednesday.

Mr Putin appeared to

acknowledge this, saying there were “there are certain limitations” to military co-operation.

The US has also warned that it would “not hesitate to take action” if North Korea provides weapons to Russia, to which the Kremlin had said that the interests of Russia and North Korea were important to them “and not warnings from Washington”. (BBC)

Emma Coronel missed hardly any of her husband’s court dates

Mr Kim is extending his stay in Russia’s east

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-7600

RECEIVING CLERK

CONTACT: 342-8593

DRYWALL FINISHER

Responsible for installing wallboards to ceilings or to interior walls of buildings and applying plaster. Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 332-1831

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-9393

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 341-3245

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

CONTACT: 241-2055

CONTACT: 242-6663

ELECTRICAL PURCHASER

• Order electrical materials on a timely basis.

• Periodic inventory taking.

• 5 years of on-the-job experience.

• Holder of a Business Accounting Certificate.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-241-0101

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

CASHIER

DOMESTIC ET CONSTRUCTION

Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-2055

SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

CLEANING

Sweeping, mopping, clean bathrooms, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. $8.00 hourly

LABOURER #9 Robinson St., New Subdivision, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

CONTACT: 343-9399

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Five Cays Road Is seeking to employ a FMM MAINTENANCE

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 1-649-344-2634

38527

Cays Is seeking to employ a FRANKLYN WALTER WILLIAMS

Five

DOMESTIC WORKER/ CLEANER

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-8332 38453

North Bank Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room,

and personal clothing and other house work Salary: $8.00 Hourly

COPY OF THEIR

LABOURER Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a HARSHA’S RESTAURANT & CAFETERIA

laundering

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE COMPLIANCE*

This position supports the Executive team in all decisions relating to strategic, organizational and operational people matters for luxury hotel property. This role helps to drive organizational performance on the objectives of quality control and compliance (through compliant and efficient company operation, policies and procedure).

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant University degree, business administration, (must have)

• A masters degree and/or a relevant professional accreditation preferred.

• At least 8 years’ experience in management roles in luxury hospitality industry, with at least 4 years of leadership in policy implementation and monitoring within organization of a similar size (must have)

• Computer literacy (Excel/Power Point/Word), ideally including experience with HR information systems (Oracle, Success factors)

• Effective communication and listening as well as counseling skills.

• Must be able to provide; clean police record, medical, negative PCR test and written reference.

Salary range $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per annum not including service charge.

SPA THERAPIST*

As a Spa Therapist for The Shore Club Resort, you will be responsible for providing guest satisfaction in the Spa that meets all The Shore Club standards.

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Proper licensure and/or training certification in all modalities.

• Detail-orientation and ability to multi-task.

• Ability to be efficient and productive in a fast-paced environment.

• Must have enthusiasm and possess excellent customer service skills.

• Must possess basic math.

• Enjoy working with people and possess a friendly and outgoing personality.

• Excellent communication, listening and computer skills.

• Must be a team player.

• Must be able and available to work evenings and weekends.

• Must be flexible with working hours.

• Demonstrate understanding of the technical service skills for assigned area (i.e. Spa).

• Demonstrate ability to proactively prioritize needs, put first things first, and effectively manage resources and time.

Salary range $8.00 per hour not including service charge

STEWARD*

As a Steward for The Shore Club Resort, you will be responsible for the operation of the dishwasher machine designated to clean glassware, china and silverware. Properly maintain all equipment and supplies. Ensure all surfaces in the Kitchens, including the floor areas and counters are clean.

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 1 years’ experience in a hotel restaurant preferably in a luxury hotel.

• Accuracy and attention to detail.

• Able to communicate in English both written and spoken.

• Must have knowledge in HACCP standards and sanitation.

Salary range $8.00 per hour not including service charge.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE DIRECTOR*

As a Food and Beverage Director, you are responsible for managing operations of all Food and Beverage outlets to deliver an excellent Guest and Member experience. A Food and Beverage Director will also be required to manage, train and develop employees and work within all budgeted guidelines.

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Degree level and/or relevant professional qualification and/or relevant proven experience.

• Ability to multitask and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

• Must be able to exhibit confidence in producing efficient work.

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office, Excel knowledge is essential.

• Demonstrable communication skills both verbally and written.

• Excellent numerical skills.

• Good technical skills and experience using systems.

• Thinks ahead and anticipates future challenges to ensure the organisation’s requirements are met.

• Demonstrable evidence of leading innovation, change and continuous improvement.

Salary range $80,000-100,000 per annum not including service charge.

OWNER ACCOUNTANT/INCOME AUDITOR*

As a Owner Accountant/Income Auditor for The Shore Club Resort, you will be responsible for administering financial aspects for owner relations within the company.

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Degree level and/or relevant professional qualification and/or relevant proven experience.

• Ability to multitask and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

• Must be able to exhibit confidence in producing efficient work.

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office, Excel knowledge is essential.

• Demonstrable communication skills both verbally and written.

• Excellent numerical skills.

• Good technical skills and experience using systems.

• Thinks ahead and anticipates future challenges to ensure the organization’s requirements are met.

• Demonstrable evidence of leading innovation, change and continuous improvement.

• Team player who can also work on own initiative.

• Strong attention to detail and commercial awareness.

• Act with a high degree of integrity while upholding the values of group.

• Self-motivated individual.

Salary range $38,000-$40,000 per annum not including service charge.

OUR HARTLING CORE VALUES FOR SUCCESS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Accountability: Being responsible for every action by acknowledging and understanding expectations.

Leadership: Showing initiative and being empowered to motivate, guide, and develop others by using expertise to execute actions while fostering mutual trust and a positive work-life balance.

Integrity: Being honest, dependable, and doing what is right even when no one is watching.

Safety: Maintaining an environment where risks to health and safety are minimized for employees and guests.

Team: Valuing all team members by helping selflessly towards achieving ultimate efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Efficiency: Accomplishing a task competently with a minimum expenditure of time effort and resources.

Respect: Showing consideration for self, guests, and each other while

A SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR

The successful applicant must possess

• Diploma in Building Technology or RICS-Recognised Qualification.

• Ten years post qualification work experience.

• Computer literate with experience in Word, Excel, MS Project & BQ system software Duties will include and candidates should have experience in:

• Pre and post contract Quantity Surveying duties

• Contract Administration

• Design Co-ordination

An annual salary of $42,000.00 plus performance. Related commission is offered for this position.

The suitable candidate should be able to work under his own initiative and be able to see through projects from concept to completion.

This position is available immediately and closing date for application is 15th September 2023.

QUALIFIED TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS PREFERRED. APPLY IN WRITING TO BCQS LIMITED, P. O. BOX 158, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. CONTACT SIMON TAYLOR ON EMAIL: STAYLOR@BCQS.COM

EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE DESTINATION

ZONE #1

Hours: 40 hours

Department: Destination Development

Unit: Product development

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: $33,000 per annum

Reporting Supervisor: Director of Product and Development Unit

Probationary Period: 6 months

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: As the Local Representative for zone #1, you will be facilitating the relations between the tourism stakeholders of the destination and Experience Turks and Caicos with the primary purpose to accelerate the development of new tourism products in each destination.

38480

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

CONTINUED 

embracing diverse cultures, communities, and points of view.

OUR KEY HEART BEAT PRINCIPLES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Warm Interactions

We provide Warm Interactions through Acknowledgement, Courteous Engagement, and our standards of Personal Appearances.

Magical Moments

We create Magical Moments by Creating the Wow, Building Connections, and through our Service Recovery.

Seamless Processes

We ensure Seamless processes are created by managing a Sense of Urgency, providing Accurate Information, and superb Telephone Etiquette.

Impeccable Facilities

We ensure our Facilities are Impeccable by Cleaning as We Go, Reporting Deficiencies, and adhering to the Mona Lisa Rule, which ensures everything is as it should be.

ALL POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS SHOULD APPLY TO

The Shore Club, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume

Attention to Joanna Martinez, Assistant Human Resources Manager at careers@theshoreclubtc.com , no later than end of day Friday, September 22th, 2023.

All resumes are subject to screening. Accepted candidates will receive a call or email confirmation with a scheduled time for meeting and required documents for the actual interview.

Resumes can also be submitted to the Labor Department directly. The Shore Club HR Office can be contacted at (1649) 339-8000.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

• Product Development

• Product Mapping

• Relationship with tourism operators

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Collaborate with the Senior Product Development Experts and the Tourism Linkages / Facilitator to identify, design and develop new tourism products, upgrade existing products, provide consultation and support to tourism businesses in the destination.

• Permanent monitoring of the needs and expectations of the tourism stakeholders in the destination and identification of potential tourism product development projects in cooperation with local tourism stakeholders.

• Collaborate with the Tourism Intelligence Unit to collect tourism data.

• Assist the Product Development Unit Manager and all other ETC Departments and Units in the implementation of any activities in the destination.

OTHERS:

• Collaborate on developing marketing and promotional activities.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/COMPETENCIES:

• At least a bachelor’s degree in Tourism, Public Relations, Marketing or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the travel/tourism industry.

• Management skills including ability to supervise and motivate employees.

• Exhibits initiative, responsibility, flexibility, and leadership

• Good social and interpersonal skills

• Good health and high energy level

• MS Suite Proficient e.g. MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• A dynamic work environment

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

• Ability to travel.

• 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.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Interim CEO, Experience Turks and Caicos, Providenciales. Applications can be delivered via email to experienceturksandcaicoshr@gmail.com

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

APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 15, 2023

MTV VMAs 2023: Taylor Swift and Shakira are the big award winners

Shakira crowd-surfed her way to a lifetime achievement prize at the MTV Video Music Awards, as she performed a career-spanning medley of hits.

The Colombian star put on a spectacular show that saw her dance with knives, writhe in a fake cave and play a fiery guitar solo during Objection (Tango).

Presenting her award, Wyclef Jean said: “Latin music would not be the global force that it is without Shakira.”

Taylor Swift was the night’s other big winner, earning nine Moon Man trophies.

The star won in all but two

of the categories where she was nominated, including the night’s biggest award - video of the year - in recognition of the self-directed promo for Anti-Hero.

She is the first artist to win video of the year twice in a row, and extended her record for the most wins in that category to four - after previously winning for Bad Blood, You Need to Calm Down and All Too Well: The Short Film.

The star, who is in the middle of the first $1bn stadium tour in history, also took home prizes for song of the year, best pop, best direction, best cinematography and best visual effects, all for Anti-

Hero, She was also awarded album of the year for Midnights, plus artist of the year and show of the summer.

The 33-year-old dedicated her wins to the art of songwriting.

“I love making pop music, I love making pop music videos,

I also love making country,” she told a star-studded crowd at New Jersey’s Prudential Center.

“I love slinking around different genres, and the only reason I’m allowed to do that is because you, the fans, gave me the opportunity to do this.”

She also had words for boy band ‘NSync, who reunited to present her with the best pop trophy.

“I had your dolls!” she laughed as she addressed the quintet,

“You guys are pop personified so to receive this from your golden pop hands is really, it’s too much,” she told the group.

Other winners on the night included rapper Ice Spice, who took home best new artist, and K-pop group Blackpink, who became the first girl band to pick up best group since TLC 24 years

ago.

It’s the fifth time in a row that a South Korean band has won the prize, with Blackpink taking the place of boy band BTS, who are currently on hiatus.

However, BTS’s youngest member Jungkook picked up song of the summer for his solo hit Seven, featuring US rapper Latto. This was one of the only categories where Swift was defeated, the other being best video editing, which went to Olivia Rodrigo’s Vampire. The night’s only dedicated K-Pop award went to eight-piece boy band Stray Kids for their single S-Class, which they also performed.

Shakira won the Vanguard Award 33 years after she released her first album, Magia, at the age of 13.

Rapper Nelly and R&B singer Ashanti split a decade ago, but the hip-hop stars are giving love another shot, nearly 20 years after their romance initially began.

The “Ride Wit Me” rapper, 48, told “The Shade Room” that he and Ashanti, 42, are “cool again” following their split in 2013 after 10 years of on-and-off dating.

“I think it surprised both of us though. It wasn’t anything that was like, I don’t think, planned. I think

we both was pretty much doing what we do. Sometimes being separate, you understand one another more. … We all can be defensive sometimes in our relationships,” he said.

Nelly confirmed the on-again couple’s current chapter feels good “because it’s no pressure.”

He explained, “Before I felt like both of us were doing what we’re doing career-wise. And when you’ve got so many people in the middle of it, it can be tough.”

Shakira put on a spectacular show that saw her dance with knives

Nelly

and Ashanti have

reportedly rekindled their relationship Nelly, Ashanti back together after 10 years apart: ‘It surprised both of us’

Queen Camilla raises a glass for Archers’ 20,000th episode

Ardent Archers fan Queen Camilla is celebrating the 20,000th episode of BBC Radio 4 drama by raising a glass to the “joy, tears and laughter” it gives.

Camilla said she was “sad” to miss a reception for the show. She sent a message to be read out at the event in Birmingham, where the show is recorded, by Louiza Patikas who plays Helen Archer.

That character has been part of a coercive control storyline, praised by the Queen for raising awareness.

Camilla’s message to the show’s editor, Jeremy Howe, referenced the recent return of Rob Titchener to the show, after his divorce from Helen.

Camilla said: “As one of your greatest fans, and sadly unable to join you this evening, I will be thinking of you all and raising a glass to mark over a quarter of a million minutes of Archers magic from the last 72 years.

“Thank you for bringing joy, companionship, laughter, tears, compassion and understanding to your audience across the globe.

“Here’s to the next 20,000 episodes - and, let’s hope, the end of Rob Titchener once and for all!

“Camilla R.”

The Guardian called Rob Titchener “the Archers’ most iconic villain”, and the domestic abuse storyline encouraged many other victims to seek help.

The world’s longest-running serial drama began in 1951 with the original purpose of educating farmers on modern agricultural methods.

Million-dollar sweater: Bids pour in for Diana’s sheep jumper

Princess Diana’s sweater featuring a black sheep among rows of white ones has sold for $1.14 million (£920,000) at an auction by Sotheby’s in New York.

be the closest, going for $806,000 (£650,000) in 2022..

In 2021, the Queen hosted a 70th anniversary reception for the show, where she admitted to suffering “severe withdrawal symptoms” after recordings were disrupted during Covid. She had a scene written for the occasion, and it was recorded as she watched, having already previously made a cameo appearance on the show.

Bidding opened 31 August, and the top bid stayed under $200,000 (£161,000) until the auction’s final minutes.

Sotheby’s had estimated the value of the “sheep jumper” at $50,000 to $80,000 (£40,300 to £64,500).

It did not disclose the identity of the winning bidder.

The simple piece of knitwear, which was unearthed in an attic in March, commanded a higher price than many other objects tied to the “People’s Princess” that were sold at auctions in recent years.

Diana’s car, a Ford Escort, may

The amethyst-bedecked Attallah Cross that Diana frequently wore was sold to reality star Kim Kardashian for roughly one-fifth of the sweater’s amount - $203,000 (£163,800) - at an auction in January.

The sweater’s design is often described as symbolic of Diana’s place within the royal family. But fashion historians believe Diana was not sending a message, as she may have done in later years with her famous “revenge dress”, when she wore the sweater in 1981, a month before her wedding to then Prince Charles. Instead, many say Diana was simply sporting the “Sloane Ranger” style she helped popularise.

Mexican singer Peso Pluma cancels concerts amid death threats from Jalisco cartel

Mexican artist Peso Pluma, a rising star in the music industry, was threatened Tuesday by a Mexican cartel hours before he performed at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Four banners were placed around Tijuana that warned Peso Pluma not to perform a scheduled Oct. 14 concert in the city, telling him, “It will be your last performance.”

The 24-year-old, whose legal name is Hassan Emilio Kabande Laija, has recently cancelled scheduled shows in Indiana, Alabama, Wisconsin and Illinois. The venues cited “unforeseen circumstances” for those cancellations, USA Today

reported.

The Oct. 14 Tijuana concert remains on Peso Pluma’s schedule, however, and his next performance is set for Sept. 28 in Reno, Nev.

All four threatening banners were signed by the Jalisco New Generation cartel, according to Vice. The cartel has been warring with the Sinaloa cartel for control of Tijuana for years.

Peso Pluma has openly referenced the Sinaloa cartel, formerly run by Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, in several of his songs. The banners said Peso Pluma would be punished for his “disrespectful loose tongue.”

Queen Camilla is known for being an “Archers addict”

Princess Diana first wore the sheep jumper to a polo match in 1981

Peso Pluma is a rising star in the music industry

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0550

3 BARBERS

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, or giving shaves. Sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.

$8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 441-3791

2 FINISHING WOOD CARPENTERS

DOMESTIC WORKER

FULL TIME GOVERNESS

CONTACT: 242-2229

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

Taking coconuts from the tree and peeling them to have them ready to sell, cleaning area, preparing coconuts to eat.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-347-7980

CONTACT: 442-6220

TEL: 947-0561

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.01 NOTICE OF LOST LAND CERTIFICATE

TITLE NUMBER 60806/9 SECTION ISLAND

THE BIGHT & THOMAS STUBBS PROVIDENCALES

Applicant must have experience as a Floral Assistant or Florist. Must have extensive knowledge of tropical flowers, foliage and potted plants, including their names, seasonal availability and lifespan. Candidates must have experience using current styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc. salary commensurate with experience.

IS URGENTLY LOOKING FOR A FLORIST CONTACT:

231-3788

Whereas, VIOLET THOMPSON of The Bight, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands has declared thatthe Land Certificate for the abovementioned title number(s) registered in the names of VIOLET THOMPSON, Share½ and ALBERT DELANCEY, Share½ as proprietors in common was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

Take Notice that I, Nicholas Arculus, Solicitor (England of Wales) The Registrar of Lands, shall cancel the Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 4th day of August 2023

Publicized by Order Registrar of Lands.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Caring for young children, collecting children from school or nursery school, babysitting, feeding and caring for pets and light garden duties.

CONTACT: 649-947-6909

Applicant must be honest, reliable and good with the elderly. Dispensing of medications, bathing and keeping the area clean. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 342-7910

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 342-0224

Setting up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment. Preparing ingredients to use in cooking chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

$8.00

CONTACT: 441-0377

Taking food and beverage orders, serving customers.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-333-8217

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

GARDENER

CONTACT:

HANDY CRAFTER EXECUTIVE CHEF

PLUMBER

CONTACT: 331-1809

MECHANIC HELPER

Assist with inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotation and changes, wheel balancing, replacing filters.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4926

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

VACANCIES

DOMESTIC WORKER

FRANK 'S HARDWARE Kew North Caicos

To clean inside and outside of store

CONTACT: 247-6266

WILKER MISSICK Kew North Caicos

To clean up work sight and some farming from time to time.

CONTACT: 343-1844

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38654

• For men and women.

• Needs 5 years’ experience in cutting, coloring and styling up do’s.

• Diploma from USA and valid cosmetology license required.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 247-2525

HI FASHION

TAILOR

Duties include but not limited to: Sewing clothes & other items. Mending of clothes and other items. Other duties as assigned. Salary $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-941-8053

KITCHEN HELPER

Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-2267

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

MAINTENANCE WORKER

• Perform minor fixes such as repairing broken craft’s etc.

• Load/unload equipment into work vehicles

• Maintain the maintenance tools and assist co-workers when needed.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-3580

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping, mopping, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels, personal clothing, and other housework.

CONTACT: 649-247-8524

Sweeping, mopping, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels, personal clothing, and other housework.

CONTACT: 344-3710

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 649-241-5563 38643

• Set up workstation as needed and prepare ingredients to use.

• Keeping a sanitized and orderly environment.

• Check quality of ingredients and monitor for shortages.

Salary: $9.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT: 345-7087

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-241-5563 38644

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

PROFESSIONAL UPHOLSTERY

UPHOLSTERER

Examine furniture frames, upholstery, springs and webbing to repair furniture and frames.

Salary: $10.0 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 246-1778

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 346-8381 38674

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 341-6897 38658

Diving to catch fish and other marine life that will be consumed by humans or used as animal feed or bait. Salary: $8.00 hourly

mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 946-4957/ RICHHILLPREP@YAHOO.COM

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD A WORK PERMIT HOLDER CURRENTLY HOLDS THIS POSITION

CONTACT: 247-4109

EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS EVENTS ORGANIZER SPECIALIST

Hours: 40 hours

Department: Marketing and Sales Department

Unit: Marketing and sales

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: $60,000 per annum

Reporting Supervisor: Marketing and sales

Unit Manager

Probationary Period: 6 months

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: Plan, Develop, and Execute cultural and entertainment events across the Turks and Caicos destination. Create distinctive signature events that are promoted by Experience Turks and Caicos in source markets and establish an annual event calendar for travel and leisure.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

• Events Planning and Promotions.

• Annual calendar of events

• Budget management

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Lead in conjunction with the product development manager the execution and management of the Weekly Fish Fry. Including offerings and activities.

• Define event requirements and standards for each occasion.

• Ensure all events align with Experience Turks and Caicos Branding Guidelines.

• Generate and implement innovative event concepts and themes.

• Responsible for sourcing and procurement of Experience Turks and Caicos collateral items.

• Develop event budgets and manage invoice processing.

• Collaborate with the Destination Development Department to enhance the tourism value chain in relation to event organization.

• Partner with the Finance and Operations Department to design and execute fundraising activities associated with events.

• Coordinate and support service suppliers and other involved businesses in event organization.

• Manage logistics for events, encompassing all

necessary elements.

• Anticipate attendee needs and mitigate potential risks.

• Produce post-event reports evaluating event effectiveness.

• Fulfill additional responsibilities as assigned by the CEO and Chief Marketing Officer.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/ COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, public relations, management, or related field.

• Passion for organizing and executing events in the tourism or cultural sector.

• Demonstrated budget management experience, adhering to procurement policies and vendor payment processing.

• Exceptional project management and organizational skills, thriving in high-pressure multitasking environments.

• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.

• Innovative, outside-the-box thinking.

• Meticulous attention to detail.

• Expertise in time management.

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

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Engage in a dynamic work environment.

• Interface with pertinent government ministries, departments, and private sector entities within the tourism industry.

• Achieve goals within a changing, interdisciplinary, and evolving setting.

• Adapt to flexible working hours, often extending to evenings, weekends, and holidays, as dictated by event schedules.

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.

Applications should be addressed to: The Interim CEO, Experience Turks and Caicos, Providenciales. Applications can be delivered via email to experienceturksandcaicoshr@gmail.com

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted. APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 15, 2023

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 231-3788

DOMESTIC WORKER

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

$8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 244-9543

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

CARETAKER

LABOURER

DUTIES: To assist skilled workers, Maintain all work areas.

SALARY: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 247-6233

CONTACT: 241-8743

CONTACT: 241-5759

EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE DESTINATION ZONE #2

Hours: 40 hours

Department: Destination Development

Unit: Product development

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: $33,000 per annum

Reporting Supervisor: Director of Product and Development Unit

Probationary Period: 6 months

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: As the Local Representative for Experience Turks and Caicos zone #2, you will be a pivotal link between the organization and the local tourism stakeholders. Your primary responsibility will be to foster relationships, accelerate tourism product development, and elevate the destination’s offerings.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

• Lead the Product Development initiatives, overseeing the creation of new and upgraded tourism products in collaboration with the Senior Product Development Experts and Tourism Linkages/Facilitators.

• Conduct continuous stakeholder engagement to understand their needs, expectations, and ideas, identifying potential projects for tourism product development.

• Work closely with the Tourism Intelligence Unit to gather and analyze tourism data, contributing insights to refine strategies.

• Collaborate with various departments and units to ensure the seamless implementation of activities in the destination.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Collaborate with tourism businesses, offering consultation and support to enhance their offerings.

• Monitor and identify opportunities for new tourism products, partnering with local stakeholders to bring these ideas to life.

• Play a pivotal role in coordinating marketing and promotional activities to elevate the destination’s profile.

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.

Applications should be addressed to: The Interim CEO, Experience Turks and Caicos, North Caicos. Applications can be delivered via email to experienceturksandcaicoshr@gmail.com

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

APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 15, 2023

HOUSEKEEPER

Taking care of a building’s general cleanliness; cleaning floors, making beds, dusting surfaces, bedding replacement, cleaning rooms, halls, bathrooms, etc.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CLEANER/DOMESTIC WORKER

Performing cleaning activities, such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all areas and rooms is clean and inspected.

Salary: $8.00 an hour

Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-947-6909 38521

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 346-5546

38486

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 346-8902 38466

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

MAKO WATER SPORTS LTD.

2nd Floor, LeVele Plaza, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. is seeking a

WATERSPORT PHOTOGRAPHER

MAKO WATERSPORTS LTD. is looking for an experienced and passionate watersports photographer to join our team. As our watersports photographer, you will be responsible for capturing stunning photos and videos of clients while they enjoying our tours. You will need to be an excellent diver, swimmer, know how to maneuver a jet ski, as well as have experience with using a variety of photography equipment and editing software tools.

RESPONSIBILITIES & REQUIREMENTS

• Capturing footage with GoPro, Drone and camera.

• Edit and process raw photos to ensure they meet the standards set forth by the client.

• Stay up-to-date on the latest photography trends and techniques

• Share finished photos with clients and make revisions as needed

• Update and manage social media platforms with content captured.

• Must be available to work 44 hours a week inclusive of holidays and weekends.

Qualifications

• Diploma/Certification as a professional photographer

• 2+ years photography experience

• Proficiency with GoPro, Drone, DSLR cameras and underwater housing systems

• Excellent swimming and free diving skills

• Open Water Certified

• Strong attention to detaill and ability to work well independently

• Experience shooting video and working with video editing software

• Familiarity with photoshop and other image-editing software

• Must have own equipment.

Salary: $2,000.00 per month

ALL INTERESTED APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT THEIR RESUME AND QUALIFICATIONS TO: JMURRAY@KARAMMISSICK.COM AND THE TCI EMPLOYMENT SERVICE AND LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

This position is currently vacant.

THADDEUS CHARLES TAYLOR

pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

SOLON

DOMESTIC WORKER

38553 BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD Stocking and

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

WANTED TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDER MECHANIC

WHAT TO EXPECT:

An independent workshop in Providenciales working on a wide variety of vehicles (North American, UK, and Japanese) with a particular interest in Land Rover Defenders. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and ambitious technician to join a highly professional and skilled team with high levels of experience.

As a technician, you will be responsible for delivering a high standard of service and building a strong customer-client relationship. This will be a hands-on technical role within a close-knit team, therefore teamwork skills are essential. This role will come with a competitive salary as well as the opportunity to grow with the business.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Delivering excellent results whilst maintaining high productivity

• Working with the team to provide a high standard of communication and problem-solving.

• A Strong Customer Focus

• Mechanical, Hydraulic, Electrical and Diagnostic Work

• Full understanding of Vehicle Air Conditioning Systems

• Preparing professional and technical written reports for customers and service advisors

REQUIREMENTS:

• Educational Experience – Preferred minimum formal qualifications however, due consideration will be given to the extent of the applicant’s experience only.

• Knowledge and experience of using diagnostic scan tools and reading wiring schematics.

• MET Qualification preferred but not essential (welding & body panels)

• Knowledge of Methods, Techniques, Parts, Tools and materials used in the Maintenance and Repair of Vehicles

• Experience in Testing, Diagnostics, HVAC service, Hydraulic, Brakes, Testing, and Repair of Electronic Systems and Modules.

HOW TO APPLY:

• Please send a CV and Cover Letter to info@tcdefenders.com

• References will be required for successful candidates.

HELPER

$8.00 hourly

BABYSITTER Leeward Highway Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

Responsible for care of minor during the absence of parents.

Some cleaning

ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUMES TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

TRUCK

BELONGERS ARE

BLUE HORIZONS REAL ESTATE DBA COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE TURKS & CAICOS

REAL ESTATE MANAGER

Wanted to assume responsibility for its day-to-day management and growth. The successful candidate will be required to have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in managing a real estate company with a successful track record. Leadership, communication, organizational, business planning, real estate coaching and computer skills are essential.

Duties include, but not limited to: Real Estate Sales Training, Global Luxury level coaching, AML and Compliance training and reporting, AML MLCO duties, accounting, HR responsibilities, business planning, preparing financial reports for the owners, strong networking, marketing, advertising & database management experience is a must.

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated individual prepared to work long days and evenings, have flexible hours including holidays and weekends.

Annual Salary range: $60,000 - $100,000 depending on experience and proven past performance results.

Ad is for work permit renewal; this position is open to all qualified Turks and Caicos Nationals. Applications accepted until September 18, 2023.

Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must also submit copies of their application to the Labour Board. Apply to Mr. Stanley Williams, Owner/Director at Blue Horizons Real Estate/Coldwell Banker Real Estate Turks & Caicos, P.O. Box 775, #1 Caicos Café Plaza, Provo, TCI, email: sw_mystique@tciway.tc, or call 649-431-0501.

38615

VATTYA JOSEPH AGENOR

HELPER

Cleaning property, pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-6609

BELONGERS ARE TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD

NAIL TECHNICIAN

Basic manicures, artificial nails. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4488

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38512

38505

DUTIES: To assist skilled workers, Maintain all work areas.

CONTACT: 232-1336

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

$8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER

Cleaning property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

$8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 347-5319

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38491

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 245-9125

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

LANDSCAPER

Cut lawn using hand, power or riding mower and trim and edge around walks, flowerbeds, and walls. Planting flowers, grass, shrubs, and bushes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-1963

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

REGISTERED NURSE WANTED

Island Wellness Ltd is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Registered Nurse to join us. The ideal candidate will be:

Gentle and conscientious caregiver:

We prioritize providing a nurturing and supportive environment for our clients. We are seeking a nurse who demonstrates kindness, empathy, and a genuine commitment to patient care.

Skilled at placing IV catheters and phlebotomy:

Proficiency in IV catheter insertion and phlebotomy is essential for this role. We value nurses who possess strong technical skills and can confidently perform these procedures.

Outgoing and friendly personality:

We’re looking for a nurse who brings a friendly demeanor and fosters a positive environment for both patients and colleagues. The ability to establish rapport with patients,

HOUSEKEEPER

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-6351

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

BABYSITTER

Duties to include monitoring baby, keeping house clean and washing.

Must be willing to work 6 days a week 7:30am - 6:00pm.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 244-1361

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND

SUNNY FOODS BLUE HILLS

Blue Hills, Providenciales

Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

DUTIES: Cleaning up various materials, Building sheds, Clearing up debris. Maintaining my property, assisting in other task.

Salary: $8.per hourly

CONTACT: 1(649) 333-1674

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping, mopping, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels, personal clothing, and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-7146

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE

communicate effectively, and actively listen to concerns is crucial.

5 years experience in clinical practice:

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience working in a clinical setting, demonstrating a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills in nursing care.

Driver’s license and working vehicle:

As part of our mobile service delivery, a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle are required for this position.

Organized medical note taker: We are seeking a nurse who demonstrates meticulousness in note-taking and record-keeping.

We offer a competitive salary, additional training and education, great hours, and additional opportunities for bonuses. Island Wellness provides a supportive work environment that values professional growth and continuous learning.

If you possess these qualities and are interested in joining our team, please send along your resume CV and cover letter, to islandwellnessjobs@ gmail.com

IS IN SEARCH OF A SKILLED:

REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• With 5 years experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing commercial refrigeration systems is required.

• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles and components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and controls.

• Ability to identify and resolve issues related to refrigeration systems in a timely and efficient manner.

• Adherence to safety protocols and practices to ensure a secure work environment.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide exceptional customer service.

• Salary for this position is $8.00 per hour

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Primary responsibilities will include inspecting, repairing, and maintaining commercial refrigeration systems. This includes diagnosing issues, replacing defective components, and conducting regular preventative maintenance tasks. You will also be required to keep accurate records, order necessary parts, and collaborate with other technicians or contractors as needed. Overall, your expertise will ensure optimal functionality and performance of the company’s refrigeration systems.

LEWIS DURHAM

FANECHETA NOEL DAGOBERT

JSWC LTD

FRONT SHOP SUPERVISOR

• Supervisory Experience

• Knowledge in POS operation.

• Able to operate cash register if needed.

• Mathematics skills to handle money, give change and cash back at tills.

• Ability to be proactive and results driven leader.

• Ability to handle multiple demands with high attention to detail and accuracy.

• Calm under pressure.

• Excellent relation skills & positive attitude.

• Communication skills: good listening and clear instruction skills.

• Full availability- Flexible time. Able to work at weekend & holidays.

• Excellent written and verbal analytical skills.

Salary: $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-3761 EMAIL: PRICECLUB99@HOTMAIL.COM

A WORK PERMIT HOLDER CURRENTLY HOLDS THIS POSITION. BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION

Ascendancy

notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of STANBROOK PRUDHOE, Third Floor Graceway House, Graceway Plaza, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands at 10:00am on October 6th 2023.

S&F WHOLESALE CASH & CARRY LTD.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands

Contact No: 1649-9462811

IS IN SEARCH OF A SKILLED:

REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• With 5 years experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing commercial refrigeration systems is required.

• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles and components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and controls.

• Ability to identify and resolve issues related to refrigeration systems in a timely and efficient manner.

• Adherence to safety protocols and practices to ensure a secure work environment.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide exceptional customer service.

• Salary for this position is $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Primary responsibilities will include inspecting, repairing, and maintaining commercial refrigeration systems. This includes diagnosing issues, replacing defective components, and conducting regular preventative maintenance tasks. You will also be required to keep accurate records, order necessary parts, and collaborate with other technicians or contractors as needed. Overall, your expertise will ensure optimal functionality and performance of the company’s refrigeration systems.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven and with 10 years experience as a Maintenance Technician or a similar role

• Solid knowledge of refrigeration, and mechanical systems

• Ability to diagnose and repair technical issues

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical manuals and diagrams

Location

TITLE BLOCK 60501, PARCEL 67, BLUE HILLS AND STAMERS RUN, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.

Comprises of House – a two bedroom, one bathroom to the north corner Comprising of Apartment Building – Four, one bedroom , one bathroom apartment

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

• Physical stamina and ability to work in different environments

• Conduct general upkeep procedures and other tasks as assigned (painting, carpentry, etc.)

• Compile with all policies for the safe storage, usage and disposal of hazardous materials

• Salary for this position is $15.00 per hour.

Description

Units

There is also a storage building, a cistern, a covered work area and a concrete paved yard to the exterior area.

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Title

Proprietor

Absolute

George Alexander Seymour

House-The approximate gross floor area of this Building is 1,021 sq. ft. with an additional 147 sq. ft. of access walkway areas

Conduct inspections and surveys of buildings. Repair and maintain refrigeration and mechanical systems for optimal functioning. Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. Diagnose and troubleshoot issues with equipment and systems. Perform regular preventive maintenance tasks. Keep accurate records of maintenance activities. Collaborate with other team members and communicate effectively. Follow company policies and guidelines.

Approximate Area

Apartment Building-The approximate gross floor area of the building is 1,863 sq. ft. with an additional 203 sq. ft. of front deck.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST FROM

ASCENDANCY TCI LTD

THIRD FLOOR GRACEWAY HOUSE GRACEWAY PLAZA PROVIDENCIALES TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

1-844-577-8742 EXTENSION 5100 OR 1-649-946-4300

EMAIL YOUR RESUME AT JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET. INTERESTED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

TCI Ltd.

As Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives

TELUCIEN TELLUS

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-8969

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

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

*RECREATIONS MANAGER

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-2348

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

DOMESTIC WORKER

To be responsible for all aspects of the recreation adult/family/ youth program considering, special events, holidays, and group activities. Create new, unique and interesting recreation activities that incorporate the environment. The recreations manager ensures the effective and efficient supervision and execution of programs and Pool and Beach activities are consistent with the company standards and goals of providing excellent service and a memorable positive experience for all guests.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Oversee the smooth running of the recreations program on a day-to-day basis to achieve the highest level of Guest Satisfaction.

• Assist guests courteously and efficiently according to Wymara, Forbes and LQA standards.

• Ensure that all activities are performed in a safe environment, using safety techniques and Policies and Procedures.

• Monitor the success of the activities programs through the number of participants per scheduled event and through guest’s feedback.

• Make necessary adjustments to maintain top quality, fun-filled programs for hotel guests as well as groups.

• Schedule staff according to hotel occupancy forecast and planned events.

• Train and evaluate employees to better enhance their skills and knowledge while creating highly adaptive and versatile teams.

• To be aware of the budget and financial targets, and responsible for all assets.

• Keep daily inventory and manager stock levels, ordering as required to ensure guest needs are met.

• Inspect daily all motorized and non-motorized equipment including chairs, umbrellas, towels, and other items required to maintain guest service.

• Respond professionally to all guest requests, comments and concerns in a timely manner and report issues to Director of Resort and Villa Operations.

• Advise Chief Engineer of any upcoming events, maintenance requirements or damaged property.

VACANCIES

FARMER

HYDRO FRESH

Admiral Ln., South Dock

649-246-2703

Planting, fertilizing, watering crops, etc. $8.00-$10.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

CARRINGTON WILLIAMS

Miracle Cl., Blue Hills 649-241-5138

Clean, wash, cook, etc. $8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

DELANO EWING Blue Hills

649-241-5138

Clean, wash, cook, etc. $8.00 Hourly

• Build and maintain a strong and collaborative working relationship with the food & beverage team to ensure guest satisfaction.

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Master’s degree in science and Technique of Physical and Sports Activities.

• Must have Boat captain license.

• Must be CPR Certified with Lifeguard training.

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and implement effective solutions while meeting deadlines.

• Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e., Microsoft Office software and Opera, Alice, Opentable, Salto system) to prepare reports, employee schedules, inventories, budgets as required.

• Must have the stamina to work long hours due to Operation’s needs.

• Ability to work flexible schedule including days/weekends/ holidays.

Base Range: $25k - $35k per year

*ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Must be able to troubleshoot technical issues and design models for new products and equipment and maintaining and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment. Identifying maintenance risks on equipment. Must be able to run tests, diagnostics, and calibrations. Must have previous experience in engineering or in a similar role. Must be able to work with hand and power tools. Work on ladders and lift a minimum of 50 lbs. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents. Daily monitoring check operations with excellent attention to detail and organization skills. Strong customer service skills and time management with the ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment. To provide the guests and employees with a secure and comfortable environment by maintaining and ensuring that all health and safety protocols are operating in accordance with the Wymara standards. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents.

Compensation: $13.00 per hour.

*BEACH CLUB ATTENDANT

The Beach Club Attendant is responsible for accurately collecting and reconciling revenue and providing exceptional customer service for all beach club guests. The Beach Club Attendant will graciously meet club guest to facilitate their requests and have exceptional knowledge of recreations, motorized and nonmotorized equipment and activities, fitness center, Tennis and excellent food and beverage service experience. The Beach Club Attendant’s comprehensive scope of work creates a sense of personalized luxury service for the club guests while experiencing the facilities. The successful candidate must have Beach/lifeguard certificate, Level 1 Civic Prevention and Relief certification and refresh and First Response Team Certificate. Ability to handle a fast paced and high-volume work environment while maintaining luxury guest service. Compensation: $8.00 per hour.

AND SUPPORTING EXPERIENCE IN A PARTICULAR POSITION ALONG WITH YOUR RESUME OR C.V. TO HR@WYMARARESORTANDVILLAS.COM

Responsible

GENESIS AUTO MOBILE REPAIRS

TOP O’ THE COVE DELI & CATERING COMPANY

3 MECHANICS

JOB DESCRIPTION:

NEEDS rotation.

• Perform maintenance and repair on customer vehicles.

• Identify problems with vehicles using the diagnostic equipment.

• Explain automotive repairs and issues and provide great customer service.

• Plan repair procedures using chart manuals and experience.

• Test the functionality of parts and systems

• Perform basic auto care and maintenance tasks such as oil changes, fluid level checks, and tire

LINE CHEF/PREP WORKER (RENEWAL) DISHWASHER/ DELIVERY DRIVER

• Repair and replace brake pads, wheel bearings, sensors, and other parts.

• Perform routine maintenance and general mechanic work on vehicles.

• Prepared to get the additional certification as needed.

• Willingness to learn with hands-on training.

• Help keep repair shops clean and organized.

• Keep a professional appearance.

Pay set @ $15, 18, 20 per hour

Hours of Work Monday to Friday 7am - 5pm & Saturday 7am to 3pm

• We are looking for a line cook to prepare food to the exact chef’s specifications and to set up stations for menu.

• Person must be able to read & write English.

• Be willing and able to multi-task with a pleasant demeanor,

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs

• Must be open to working weekends and holidays.

• Hours are between 6am and 6pm Daily. Salary 22,300 to 29,600.00 per year

• Candidate must have valid driver’s license

• Verifiable References. Willing to work early morning shift hours.

• Must be able to lift 70lbs. Must have previous restaurant work experience.

• Salary Range for this position $22,800 to 29,500. Per annum

• This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

CONTACT: 649-946-4694

EASYWAY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

ERODE NOEL

T: 243-6240

ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT

TANEISHA J. PAUL

The Bight T: 348-5819

An opportunity exists for an experienced fully qualified certified public accountant or chartered accountant with a minimum of fifteen years post-graduation professional experience with international exposure to head a growing accounting advisory services practice. This individual is required to lead all aspects of the business including the ability to resolve complex accounting engagements, provide consultancy services to clients, lead training sessions and prepare detailed financial reports providing insightful business advice. They will report to the directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$70,000 to US$80,000 per annum plus benefits. This is a new position.

If you wish to be considered for this opportunity please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either:

NEIL FRENCH

BAKER TILLY

P.O. BOX 357

18 THE VILLAGE AT GRACE BAY PROVIDENCIALES

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

OR

THE LABOUR COMMISSIONER

LABOUR OFFICE

BUTTERFIELD SQUARE PROVIDENCIALES

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

OR EMAIL YOUR PARTICULARS TO NEIL.FRENCH@BAKERTILLY.TC 38678

TRADESMAN $10.00 laying tile, blocks and carpenter, steel and plumber works.

PLAY SAT

T: 345-6544 Millennium Highway

ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN $10.00

Fixing phone, electronics and installing camera.

MERCIUS & HUGUETTE JOAZILE

T: 341- 1791

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00 hr

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my grandchildren.

DOMESTIC WORKER $8.00 hr.

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my son.

PASSION BEAUTY SALON

T: 333-1236

Alice & Alice, # 203 Airport Road

HAIRBRAIDER $8.00 hourly styling men and women hair, treating all types of hair and styling kids hair.

JA’SAM CONSTRUCTION

T: 341-8332 Blue Hills

LABOURER $8.00 hr

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site.

1058B Leeward Highway, Providenciales

GRADUATE TEACHERS

TO TEACH, BUSINESS STUDIES AND COMPUTER SCIENCE and is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Suitable candidates must have a Bachelor's Degree and teaching qualifications; five (5) years minimum experience teaching the British National Curriculum and Cambridge International Examination syllabi.

Salary starts at $3,500

D AND R ADMINISTRATIONS

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES

CV, letter of application and names of 2 referees to be sent in writing to:

LAURA

KUZENKO

British West Indies Collegiate PO Box 338, Providenciales or Email: lkuzenko@bwic.tc

2 CLEANERS

• Cleaning inside the shop (sweep & mop the floor, wipe glass doors & windows, cleaning toilets).

• Remove garbage at office, cashier and kitchen area.

• Able to work on weekends and holidays.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER GARDENER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Soil cultivation, digging, and forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting.

Praddo is a design-built construction company that offers and produces high-end projects. We are looking for experienced professionals who are passionate and dedicated to making our clients’ concepts a reality.

LABOURERS CARPENTERS

CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISORS

• Assist with offloading of containers

• Assist with transporting of inventory from bon warehouse to wholesale warehouse

• Stacking of shelves with inventory and making sure shelves are clean at all times

• Ensure a clean and orderly warehouse

• Dispose of garbage whenever necessary

Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: EMAIL: INFO@WINCECELLAR.TC

VACANCIES

BABYSITTER CARPENTER

LABOURER

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

Acting on behalf

VILLA DEL MAR

Grace Bay, provo Tel: 649-941-5160

$8.00 p/h

Perform daily clean.

JOSIE SHOP

Blue hills, provo Tel:649-245-4791

$8.00 p/h

Clean, stock facilities areas

STORE CLERK CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

HILL VIEW BOUTIQUE Airport Road, provo $8.00 p/h

Clean the store, Keep track of inventory.

CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE #53, P.O. Box 68, Blue Mountain, Provo Tel: 231-0337

Operate a variety of hand and power tools. $9.00 p/h

BELONGER CAN SEND RESUME.

FIRST TIME/ RENEWAL

CREATIVE ARTS COORDINATOR

EXPERIENCED Creative Arts Coordinator is required to assist with the programs at the Youth Centre. Must be available to work holidays and weekends.

Invites suitably qualified persons for the position of programs

• Excellent skills of working with youth

• Strong motivation to empower young people

REQUIREMENTS:

• University degree or Diploma in teaching, psychology, social work or similar field

energetic qualities ASSETS

Administration management or other office experience

38667

• At least three (3) years experience working in a related field

• Computer literate in Microsoft Office

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS 27TH SEPTEMBER 2023

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY

Duties:

Salary $8.00 must be available week, weekends and holidays. Salary $10.00 shifts an hour that include holidays and weekends. Salary $10.00. Must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience and references. Salary $8.00 POTTS OF GOLD PARLOR, 1 OLD AIRPORT ROAD OR EMAIL US AT ELITETCI@GMAIL.COM CONTACT: 649-332-8985 C & S PROFESSIONAL ORETA DORINE BEEN 38698 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 hourly DOMESTIC WORKER Acting on behalf of Blue Hills, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking to employ a CONTACT: 342-5631 NATASHA’S CONSULTANCY EDLINE PUBIEN 38701 Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $8.00 Hourly LABOURER Acting on behalf of Kew Town Is seeking to employ a CONTACT: 243-1368 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY MARGUERITE ALTIDOR CONTACT: 345-4307 38670 BELONGERS ARE ASKED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. THIS IS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

Strong written, verbal and communication skills SALARY $1,800 p/m BARMAID/ BARTENDERS SURVEILLANCE OFFICER ROUTE ATTENDANT/ FLOOR ATTENDANT KITCHEN STAFF HELPERS 38681

38677

EASYWAY

IS YOUR NPO IN GOOD STANDING

All non-profit organisations (NPO's) operating in or from the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) are required to be registered, or be exempted from registration, by the TCI Financial Services Commission (the Commission). Failure to register or be exempt from registration is an offence that is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $50,000.

All registered NPO's are required to submit annual financial statements, along with a filing fee of $100, by 30th June or six months after the end of their financial year. Failure to submit the required financial statements and filing fee will result in de-registration of the NPO.

Please contact the Commission at nporegistration@tcifsc.tc for details on how to register or submit your NPO’s financial statements. Additional information on the registration process and supervisory framework applicable to NPO's can be found on the NPO section of the Commission’s website at www.tcifsc.tc/non-profit-organizations/.

IS YOUR NPO IN GOOD STANDING

All non-profit organisations (NPO's) operating in or from the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) are required to be registered, or be exempted from registration, by the TCI Financial Services Commission (the Commission). Failure to register or be exempt from registration is an offence that is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $50,000.

All registered NPO's are required to submit annual financial statements, along with a filing fee of $100, by 30th June or six months after the end of their financial year. Failure to submit the required financial statements and filing fee will result in de-registration of the NPO.

Please contact the Commission at nporegistration@tcifsc.tc for details on how to register or submit your NPO’s financial statements. Additional information on the registration process and supervisory framework applicable to NPO's can be found on the NPO section of the Commission’s website at www.tcifsc.tc/non-profit-organizations/.

A SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR

The successful applicant must possess

• Diploma in Building Technology or RICS-Recognised Qualification.

• Ten years post qualification work experience.

• Computer literate with experience in Word, Excel, MS Project & BQ system software Duties will include and candidates should have experience in:

• Pre and post contract Quantity Surveying duties

• Contract Administration

• Design Co-ordination

An annual salary of $42,000.00 plus performance. Related commission is offered for this position.

The suitable candidate should be able to work under his own initiative and be able to see through projects from concept to completion.

This position is available immediately and closing date for application is 15th September 2023.

QUALIFIED TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS PREFERRED. APPLY IN WRITING TO BCQS LIMITED, P. O. BOX 158, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. CONTACT SIMON TAYLOR ON EMAIL: STAYLOR@BCQS.COM

ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT

AYA CONSTRUCTION

TEL: 441-3791

Kew Town Cox Drive

LABOURER $8.00 hr

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site

SAVE & SAVOR MINI MART

TEL: 341-8588

Industrial Park OJ Glass Plaza #6

LABOURER $8.00

unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

YVENET MENARDY

TEL: 343-1680

Behind Mara

BABYSITTER $8.00 hr

Caring for our 2 children, cook, clean, wash and iron

L.J CONTRACTING SERVICES

TEL: 331-8546

Kew Town

MASON $12.00 hr

Laying blocks and plastering

GOLD STAR CONTRACTORS & MAINTENANCE

TEL: 243-2103

Leeward Palms

LABOURER $8.00 Hr.

Laying up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, layout tools, pouring of concrete foundation.

ELIE’S LANDSCAPING CLEANING SERVICES

Blue Hills

TEL: 232-7124

GARDINER $8.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

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.

Projetech Construction Management & Services Ltd. wishes to recruit the following key staff to join its team. These opportunities have arisen due to a substantial increase in potential workload. We encourage Turks and Caicos Islanders to apply. In some instances, recent graduates with a strong drive to succeed may be considered. For each role remuneration and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Successful candidates must be prepared to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends.

PROJECT MANAGER

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a Project Manager on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Management. A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete projects on time, within budget, to a high standard of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, together with experience with very high-quality finishings. Experience with Construction Management Software packages such as UDA Construction Online, or similar, would be an advantage.

QUANTITY SURVEYOR

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a Quantity Surveyor on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Quantity Surveying. General duties will include preliminary budgeting, the preparation of detailed Bills of Quantities, project estimating, the procurement of materials, labor, and subcontractors, financial forecasting, and reporting, managing all contractual and legal issues, and general commercial control in all aspects. A proven track record demonstrating the ability to manage all commercial aspects of construction projects must be shown. Strong leadership, communication, organization, and presentation skills are essential.

ESTIMATOR

Applicants must be able to demonstrate suitable experience as an Estimator on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Management. A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete estimates, including detailed quantity take-offs and pricing, cost planning, cashflows, and general cost management of construction projects, to a high standard of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown. The main role of this position is the preparation of Bills of Quantities and Estimates both preconstruction and during construction to assist the project management team. Experience with modern construction management software, including Planswift and Construction Online would be an advantage. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential.

Applications must be made in writing and should include career history and the names and contact details of at least two references. Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders should also submit copies of their application to the Labor Department. All applications will be properly reviewed, and suitably qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Applications should be received by September 22nd, 2023 and sent to:

TWO (2): AUDIT SENIOR

Skills Required: Qualified (A)CA, ACCA, CPA or ACMA

Duties:

• Plan and execute audits in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISA) or US GAAS for a wide range of clients.

• Review financial statements and accounting records to ensure they are in compliance

with IFRS, IFRS for SMEs or US GAAP.

• Identify and communicate auditing and technical matters to senior team members and the client.

• Examine and report on the design and implementation of internal controls within the organisation.

Salary range: $40,000 - $50,000 per annum

THESE POSITIONS ARE CURRENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS, TURKS & CAICOS NATIONALS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY APPLY TO CONTACT@TC.GT.COM NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 22, 2023 PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE COMPLIANCE*

This position supports the Executive team in all decisions relating to strategic, organizational and operational people matters for luxury hotel property. This role helps to drive organizational performance on the objectives of quality control and compliance (through compliant and efficient company operation, policies and procedure).

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant University degree, business administration, (must have)

• A masters degree and/or a relevant professional accreditation preferred.

• At least 8 years’ experience in management roles in luxury hospitality industry, with at least 4 years of leadership in policy implementation and monitoring within organization of a similar size (must have)

• Computer literacy (Excel/Power Point/Word), ideally including experience with HR information systems (Oracle, Success factors)

• Effective communication and listening as well as counseling skills.

• Must be able to provide; clean police record, medical, negative PCR test and written reference.

Salary range $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per annum not including service charge.

THIS POSITION MARKED WITH (*) IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

Interested applicants should apply to The Shore Club, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume Attention to Joanna Martinez, Assistant Human Resources Manager at careers@theshoreclubtc.com , no later than end of day Friday, September 15th, 2023.

All resumes are subject to screening. Accepted candidates will receive a call or email confirmation with a scheduled time for meeting and required documents for the actual interview.Resumes can also be submitted to the Labor Department directly. The Shore Club HR Office can be contacted at (1649) 339-8000.

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

over husband and man the gate.

CONTACT: 347-2489

BELONGERS ARE

Keeps equipment available for use by inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters. Salary: $11.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 231-5417

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-246-1871

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

2 WAITRESS/ KITCHEN HELPERS

Duties: To take orders, serve Customers and clean tables. SALARY: $8.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 247-4466

Follow blueprints and building plans. Install structures and fixtures.

Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 348-1832

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 441-9510

BELONGERS

COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

The individual will possess these MINIMUM QUALIFICATION

• Must be a practicing Born Again Christian

• At least five (5) years Post qualification teaching experience

• At least two (2) Years experience in school Administration

•

• Must have a working knowledge of the A-Beka Curriculum

• Must be familiar with Primary Education within the Caribbean. COMPENSATION: Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Creating lesson plans and teaching them, individually, or in small groups; track students’ progress and present the information to parents; create tests; create and reinforce classroom rules.

CONTACT: 342-3463

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-4347

Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-5922

Long

SECURITY ANALYTICS MANAGER

Salary $3,500.00 per month

This role requires significant experience in providing private security services and involves the analysis, interpretation and reporting of security data and information to improve business performance and achieve company growth. The successful candidate will have carried out security analytical work across a national area and will also have worked through various front-line security roles in their career. The successful applicant will also hold a recognised qualification at Management Level from a Nationally accredited security training body.

TRAINER/TRAINING OFFICER

Salary from $2,472.00

Will be Responsible for identifying, developing, facilitating, and monitoring training activities in our company. Assessing training needs, developing internal training programs, or contracting external ones, facilitating learning, providing feedback, and monitoring outcomes. Essential qualifications are researching and planning abilities, excellent communication, and presentation skills, coaching, teamwork and problem-solving. Flexibility, knowledge in other fields and all aspects of security are an advantage.

SECURITY OFFICERS

Salary $90:00 per hour plus benefits

Responsibilities -To maintain a safe and secure environment for customers/ clients. Patrolling, deterrence, monitoring and securing properties and business establishments. Surveillance Skills, Deals with Threats, exercising excellent Judgment, Objectivity, Dependability, Conflict Management, Integrity, Safety Management, Professionalism, Reporting Skills, CCTV and Security Alarm knowledge are desirable.

ASSISTANT RIDING INSTRUCTOR

METAL ROOFER

BLUE HERON VACATIONS

Is seeking a

BUTLER

Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience at a local resort or hotel. Must speak perfect English, be willing to work weekends and evenings and have a strong work ethic.

Salary - $3500.00

Qualified applicants must send resume’s to: Claudius Williams, Owner/Operator of Blue Heron Vacations

2 Queens Landing Plaza

Email at claudius@ blueherontci.com

QUALIFIED ISLANDERS PLEASE SUBMIT RESUME’S TO TCI EMPLOYMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT

EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS

ALL THINGS WOOD

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 649-341-3168

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38520

MARKETING INTELLIGENCE MANAGER

Hours: 40 hours

Department: Marketing Department

Unit: Marketing Intelligence Unit

Classification: Employee

Annual Salary: $75,000 per annum

Reporting Supervisor: Chief Marketing Officer

Probationary Period: 6 months

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Purpose: The Marketing Intelligence Manager for Experience Turks and Caicos will lead and develop all marketing intelligence activities and services, transforming Experience Turks and Caicos from a traditional destination marketing organization to a Smart- destination marketing organization. All data generated by the organization will be utilized to continually monitor the impact of the tourism industry on the Turks and Caicos Islands economy and provide valuable insights to shape sustainable tourism development policies and strategies.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

• Statistics and Management

• Marketing, including Market Research / Market Intelligence

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Marketing Intelligence Unit

• Collaborate with all other Experience Turks and Caicos departments and units to provide them with tourism industry data for TCI

• Maintain strong relationships with TCI tourism stakeholders involved in data collection (e.g., Airports and Seaports Authorities, Border Authorities, TCIG, tourism accommodations, etc.)

• Identify and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to Experience Turks and Caicos’ activities

• Ensure accurate execution of data analysis

• Analyze and approve statistical reports concerning TCI’s tourism performance

• Manage the budget for market research, surveys, and statistical analysis

• Coordinate research and survey activities to analyze the tourism industry and demand in TCI

• Provide comprehensive analysis of all data generated by Experience Turks and Caicos

• Propose and implement new KPIs and tourism indicators, including the development of new IT tools for advanced data collection

• Continuously provide data analysis to the Chief Marketing Officer and Marketing and Sales Unit Manager, assisting in defining marketing strategies and activities

• Offer recommendations based on data analysis results from the Market Intelligence Unit

OTHERS:

• Participate in international symposiums, meetings, and forums related to tourism statistics and impacts

• Ensure that all statistical data is easily accessible and understandable for TCI tourism stakeholders

• Identify potential partners for specific projects related to tourism data collection and interpretation

• Collaborate with the CEO for annual performance reporting of Experience Turks and Caicos

• Explore opportunities to offer tourism data packages to stakeholders in TCI

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS/COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Economics or Statistics

• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience leading multidisciplinary teams in statistical analysis of the tourism industry, including trend analysis and impact assessments

• Proficient in data analysis, strong analytical and statistical inference skills, etc.

• Excellent communication and presentation abilities

• Strong leadership and management skills

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• A dynamic work environment

• Interaction with relevant government ministries, departments, and private sector entities in the tourism industry

• Travel may be required

• Goal achievement in a multi-disciplinary, 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.

Applications should be addressed to: The Interim CEO, Experience Turks and Caicos, Providenciales. Applications can be delivered via email to experienceturksandcaicoshr@gmail.com

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted. APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 15, 2023

ADAMS HAIR BRAIDING

Grace Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

HAIR BRAIDER

• Applicant must be honest, reliable and willing to work.

• Washing, shampooing and braiding of hair for tourist and natives.

• Cleaning and putting up all hair products at the end of the day.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-3525

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

38478

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Cleaning property, pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 332-0026

BELONGERS ARE TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD

ALECIA FENELUS

38506

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 244-1121

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38540

ALL IS GOOD WITH AHH CLEANING SERVICES

Five Cays Rd. Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 1-649-243-4466

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38528

ADOLPH DAVIS

CONTACT:

DOMESTIC WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT:

SALES PERSON

SHOP CLEANER

LABOURER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

CONTACT: 345-9454

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 347-7429

CONTACT: 341-4854

pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-1112

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

CONTACT: 232-3096

CONTACT: 231-2397

Science & Technology

Mexican Congress holds hearing on UFOs featuring purported ‘alien’ bodies

Mexican lawmakers heard testimony that “we are not alone” in the universe and saw the alleged remains of non-human beings in an extraordinary hearing marking the Latin American country’s first congressional event on UFOs.

In the hearing on Tuesday on FANI, the Spanish acronym for what are usually now termed Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), politicians were shown two artifacts that Mexican journalist and long-time UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan claimed were the corpses of extraterrestrials.

The specimens were not related to any life on Earth, Maussan said.

The two tiny “bodies,” displayed in cases, have three fingers on each hand and elongated heads. Maussan said they were recovered in Peru near the ancient Nazca Lines in 2017. He said that they were about 1,000 years old, analysed through a carbon dating process by Mexico’s National Autonomous University (UNAM).

Similar such finds in the past have turned out to be the remains of mummified children.

Maussan said it was the first time such evidence had been presented.

“I think there is a clear

said to have three fingers on each hand and an elongated head

demonstration that we are dealing with non-human specimens that are not related to any other species in our world and that all possibilities are open for any scientific institution... to investigate it,” Maussan said.

“We are not alone,” he added.

Jose de Jesus Zalce Benitez,

Director of the Scientific Institute for Health of the Mexican navy, said X-rays, 3-D reconstruction and DNA analysis had been carried out on the remains.

“I can affirm that these bodies have no relation to human beings,” he said.

UNAM on Thursday republished

a statement first issued in 2017, saying the work by its National Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry with Accelerators (LEMA) was only intended to determine the age of the samples.

“In no case do we make conclusions about the origin of said samples,” the statement said.

Lawmakers also heard from former U.S. Navy pilot Ryan Graves, who has participated in U.S. Congressional hearings about his personal experience with UAP and the stigma around reporting such sightings.

Congressman Sergio Gutierrez, from President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s ruling Morena party, said he hoped the hearing would be the first of other similar events in Mexico.

“We are left with reflections, with concerns and with the path to continue talking about this,” Gutierrez said.

In recent years, the U.S. government has done an aboutface on public information on UAP after decades of stonewalling and deflecting. The Pentagon has been actively investigating reported sightings in recent years by military aviators, while an independent NASA panel studying UFOs is the first of its kind by the space agency.

NASA was set to discuss findings from the study on Thursday.

Maussan faced swift backlash and criticism from skeptics on Wednesday who questioned the authenticity of his presentation. (Reuters)

Infertility affects 7% of the male population. Now artificial intelligence (AI) may be about to help solve the problem.

Dr Steven Vasilescu says that the AI software developed by him and his team can spot sperm in samples taken from severely infertile men 1,000 times faster than a highly trained pair of eyes.

“It can highlight a potentially viable sperm before a human can even process what they’re looking at,” he says.

Dr Vasilescu is a biomedical engineer at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), in Australia, and founder of medical company NeoGenix Biosciences.

The system he and his colleagues have developed is called SpermSearch.

It has been designed to help men who have no sperm in their ejaculate at all, 10% of infertile men, a condition called nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA).

Usually in these cases, a small portion of the testes is surgically removed, and taken to a lab, where an embryologist can manually search for healthy sperm.

The tissue is teased apart and examined under a microscope. If any viable sperm are found, they can be extracted and injected into an egg.

This process, says Dr Vasilescu, can take multiple staff six or seven hours, and there is danger of fatigue and inaccuracy.

“When an embryologist looks down the microscope, what they see is just this complete mess - a

starscape of cells,” he says.

“There’s blood and tissue. There might be only 10 sperm in the whole thing, but there can be millions of other cells. It’s a needle in a haystack,” says Dr Vasilescu.

He says that, by contrast,

SpermSearch can find any healthy sperm in seconds, when photographs of the samples are immediately uploaded into the computer.

To achieve this speed, Dr Vasilescu and his colleagues

trained the AI to identify sperm in these complex tissue samples by showing it thousands of such images.

In a published scientific paper,

The ‘alien’ was

Sperm counts have declined by half over the past 40 year

How AI may be a powerful tool in treating male infertility

Science & Technology

Tantalising sign of possible life on faraway world

Nasa’s James Webb Space Telescope may have discovered tentative evidence of a sign of life on a faraway planet.

It may have detected a molecule called dimethyl sulphide (DMS). On Earth, at least, this is only produced by life.

The researchers stress that the detection on the planet 120 light years away is “not robust” and more data is needed to confirm its presence.

Researchers have also detected methane and CO2 in the planet’s atmosphere.

Detection of these gases could mean the planet, named K2-18b, has a water ocean.

Prof Nikku Madhusudhan, of the University of Cambridge, who led the research, told BBC News that his entire team were ‘’shocked’’ when they saw the results.

“On Earth, DMS is only produced by life. The bulk of it in Earth’s atmosphere is emitted from phytoplankton in marine environments,” he said.

CAUTION

But Prof Madhusudhan described the detection of DMS as tentative and said that more data would be needed to confirm its presence. Those results are expected in a year.

‘’If confirmed, it would be a

huge deal and I feel a responsibility to get this right if we are making such a big claim.’’

It is the first time astronomers have detected the possibility of DMS in a planet orbiting a distant star. But they are treating the results with caution, noting that a claim made in 2020 about the presence of another molecule, called phosphine, that could be produced by living organisms in the clouds of Venus was disputed a year later.

Even so, Dr Robert Massey, who is independent of the research and deputy director of the Royal Astronomical Society in London, said he was excited by the results.

‘’We are slowly moving towards the point where we will be able to answer that big question as to whether we are alone in the Universe or not,” he said.

‘’I’m optimistic that we will one day find signs of life. Perhaps it will be this, perhaps in 10 or even 50 years we will have evidence that is so compelling that it is the best explanation.’’

JWST is able to analyse the light that passes through the faraway planet’s atmosphere. That light contains the chemical signature of molecules in its atmosphere. The details can be deciphered by splitting the light into its constituent frequencies - rather like a prism

creating a rainbow spectrum. If parts of the resulting spectrum are missing, it has been absorbed by chemicals in the planet’s atmosphere, enabling researchers to discover its composition.

The feat is all the more remarkable because the planet is more than 1.1 million billion km away, so the amount of light reaching the space telescope is tiny.

As well as DMS, the spectral analysis detected an abundance of the gases methane and carbon dioxide with a good degree of confidence.

The proportions of CO2 and methane are consistent with there being a water ocean underneath a hydrogen-rich atmosphere. Nasa’s Hubble telescope had detected the presence of water vapour previously, which is why

the planet, which has been named K2-18b, was one of the first to be investigated by the vastly more powerful JWST, but the possibility of an ocean is a big step forward.

RECIPE FOR LIFE

The ability of a planet to support life depends on its temperature, the presence of carbon and probably liquid water. Observations from JWST seem to suggest that that K218b ticks all those boxes. But just because a planet has the potential to support life it doesn’t mean that it does, which is why the possible presence of DMS is so tantalising.

What makes the planet even more intriguing is that it is not like the Earth-like, so called rocky planets, discovered orbiting distant stars that are candidates for life.

K2-18b is nearly nine times the

size of Earth.

Exoplanets - which are planets orbiting other stars - which have sizes between those of Earth and Neptune, are unlike anything in our solar system. This means that these ‘sub-Neptunes’ are poorly understood, as is the nature their atmospheres, according to Dr Subhajit Sarkar of Cardiff University, who is another member of the analysis team.

“Although this kind of planet does not exist in our solar system, sub-Neptunes are the most common type of planet known so far in the galaxy,” he said.

“We have obtained the most detailed spectrum of a habitablezone sub-Neptune to date, and this allowed us to work out the molecules that exist in its atmosphere.” (BBC)

the UTS biomedical engineering team said that in a test SpermSearch was 1,000 times faster than an experienced embryologist. However, SpermSearch is not designed to replace embryologists, but rather to act as an assistive tool.

Dr Sarah Martins da Silva says that such speed in finding any sperm is vital. “Time is critical,” says the clinical reader in reproductive medicine at the University of Dundee.

“If you’ve got somebody that’s had an egg collection, and you’ve got eggs that need to be fertilised, there’s only a small time window for us to be able to do that. Speeding up the process would be hugely advantageous.”

With sperm counts widely reported to have declined by half over the past four decades, infertility remains a growing

problem.

Factors behind the drop in male fertility are reported to include everything from pollution and smoking, to poor diets, not getting enough exercise, and too much stress.

Dr Meurig Gallagher is another academic working to help men with infertility problems.

An Assistant Professor in the Centre for Systems Modelling and Quantitative Biomedicine at the University of Birmingham, his new technique uses imaging software to track the speed and action of sperm tails.

“Watching the tail gives insight into the health of a sample,” he says. “Minute changes can tell us whether the sperm is under environmental stress, about to die, or is responding to a biological cue.”

Meanwhile, Belfast-based fertility firm Examen uses a technique known as single cell gel electrophoresis to identify DNA damage in individual sperm.

Prof Sheena Lewis and her team have been developing the technique for more than 20 years.

However, Prof Lewis, who is emeritus professor in reproductive medicine at Queens University Belfast and chief executive of Examen, says that while developments in the use of AI are exciting, medicine moves very slowly.

For example, SpermSearch is currently at the stage of proof-of-concept, following a very small trial involving just seven patients.

“It doesn’t mean anything yet,” says Prof Lewis. “The length of time between something being at proof-of-concept to

being commercially available is probably between two and five years.

“It’s got a long way to go. It’s also aimed at the very small group of men who have NOA. Anything you can do is fantasticbut it’s never going to be mainstream.”

Back in Sydney, Dr Vasilescu says treatment like theirs is the “last stop”.

“It can be the difference between fertilising an egg - or just stopping treatment,” he says.

“If we can make the embryologist more efficient, more accurate, they might find sperm they wouldn’t otherwise find. That gives a man the chance of fathering his own biological children.”

The UTS team are now poised to take their AI to clinical trials. “An actual live pregnancy - that’s the next step,” says Dr Vasilescu. (BBC)

Artwork: K2-18 b orbits a cool dwarf star shown in red just far enough away for its temperature to support life

How AI may be a powerful tool in treating male ...

Science & Technology

Near-death experiences tied to brain activity after death, study says

Surgeons were about to saw through 80-year-old Aubrey Osteen’s chest after a heart attack in December 2020 when he suddenly became conscious.

“I said, ‘Wait a minute here before y’all go any further. Give me some more anesthesia, you know?’ Well, it took me a minute to realise I wasn’t in the same dimension they were in, so they couldn’t hear me anyway.”

Osteen then watched his body “weave through the rib cage” and float above the operating table while the surgical team cracked his chest, removed the heart and began to repair the damage. Soon, he heard someone say “kidneys.”

“Both kidneys shut down at the same time — I knew I was gone. And that’s when I went to the next level,” Osteen said. “When I got up there, I was in the presence of God — a powerful presence — with light shining from behind him. The light was brighter than anything I’ve experienced here on Earth, but it wasn’t blinding.

“And there was the sweetest angel that comforted me and told me ‘Relax. Everything’s going to be fine,’ and that I was going to have to go back,” said Osteen, now 82.

“I know now that I was sent back to tell others about my experience.”

NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES

What happened to Osteen that winter day is what experts call a “near-death experience.” It can occur when doctors bring a person back to life after the heart flatlines and breathing stops — which happens when a person dies for any reason, not just during a heart attack.

Millions of people have reported near-death experiences since cardiopulmonary resuscitation, better known as CPR, was invented in 1960, said Dr. Sam Parnia, an NYU Langone Health intensive care physician who has researched the phenomena for decades.

Parnia is the senior author of a new study designed to uncover what he calls the “hidden consciousness” of death by measuring electrical activity in

the brain when the heart stops and breathing ceases.

“Many people report the same experience. Their consciousness became heightened and more vivid, and their thinking became sharper and clearer all while doctors like myself are trying to revive them and think they’re dead,” said Parnia, an associate professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City.

“They have a sensation they have separated from the body and can see and hear doctors and nurses, and they were able to report what doctors were doing to them in a 360-degree way that’s inexplicable to them,” he added.

In addition, people often review their entire lives, remember thoughts, feelings and events they normally couldn’t, and begin to evaluate themselves based upon principles of morality and ethics. It’s a “global comprehension of their behavior throughout life where they can no longer deceive themselves,” Parnia said.

People also report seeing a God-like being Parnia says can be interpreted in different ways: “If you happen to be a Christian, you say, ‘I saw Jesus’ and if you happen to be an atheist, you say ‘I saw this incredible being of love and compassion.’ All of this has been reported now for more than 60 years.”

RECORDING BRAIN WAVES WHILE UNDERGOING CPR

In the study, published Thursday in the journal Resuscitation, teams of trained personnel in 25 hospitals in the United States, the United Kingdom and Bulgaria followed doctors into rooms where patients were “coding” or “technically dead,” Parnia said.

While doctors performed CPR, the research teams attached devices that measured oxygen and electrical activity to the dying person’s head. The average resuscitation attempt lasted between 23 and 26 minutes. However, some doctors continued to perform CPR for up to an hour, the study found.

“Resuscitation is a very tense, challenging circumstance. It’s very high intensity,” he said. “Nobody’s

Near-death experiences have occurred in millions of people since doctors developed a way to restart the heart

ever done this before, but our independent research teams were successful in carrying out the procedures without interfering in the medical care of patients.”

Brain activity was measured at two- or three-minute intervals, when doctors had to stop chest compressions or electric shocks to see if the patient’s heart would restart, Parnia said.

“There was no movement. It was a silence. That’s when we would take measurements to see what’s happening. We found the brains of people who are going through death have flatlined, which is what you would expect,” Parnia said.

“But interestingly, even up to an hour into the resuscitation, we saw spikes — the emergence of brain electrical activity, the same as I have when talking or deeply concentrating,” he added.

Those spikes included gamma, delta, theta, alpha and beta waves, according to the study.

Unfortunately, only 53 people of the 567 people in the study, or 10%, were brought back to life. Of those, 28 people were then interviewed as to what they could recall from the experience. Only 11 patients reported being aware during CPR and only six reported a near-death experience.

However, those experiences were categorised along with testimonies from 126 survivors of cardiac arrest who were not in the study, and “we were able to show very clearly that the recorded experience of death — a sense of separation, a review of your life, going to a place that feels like home and then a recognition that you need to come back — were very consistent across people from

all over the world,” Parnia said.

In addition, the study took the recorded brain signals and compared them with brain signals done by other studies on hallucinations, delusions and illusions and found them to be very different, he added.

“We were able to conclude that the recalled experience of death is real. It occurs with death, and there’s a brain marker that we’ve identified. These electrical signals are not being produced as a trick of a dying brain, which is what a lot of critics have said.”

DID THE STUDY ACTUALLY MEASURE CONSCIOUSNESS?

Some experts in the field were less convinced by the study’s conclusions, which were first presented at scientific sessions in November 2022 and widely covered by the media.

“This latest report of persistent brain waves after cardiac arrest has been blown out of proportion by the media. In fact, his team did not show any association between these brain waves and conscious activity,” said Dr. Bruce Greyson, Carlson Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville.

“That is, those patients who had near-death experiences did not show the reported brain waves, and those who did show the reported brain waves did not report neardeath experiences,” Greyson told CNN via email.

Greyson, who was not involved in the new study, is the coeditor of “The Handbook of

Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years

of Investigation.” He and cardiologist Dr. Pim van Lommel, a Dutch researcher and writer on near-death experiences, submitted comments to the journal to publish alongside the new study. They pointed to the study’s statement that “two of the 28 interviewed subjects had EEG data, but weren’t among those with explicit cognitive recall.”

“All (the study) has shown is that in some patients there is continued electrical activity in the head that occurs during the same period that other patients report having NDEs (near-death experiences),” Greyson said.

It’s correct that the study was not able to match electrical activity with a near death experience in the same patient, Parnia said.

“Our sample size wasn’t large enough. Most of our people didn’t live so we didn’t have hundreds of survivors. That’s the reality of it,” he said. “Of those that did live and had readable electrocardiograms, 40% of them showed that their brain waves went from flatline to showing normal signs of lucidity.”

In addition, Parnia said, people who survive often have fragmented memories or forget what they experienced due to heavy sedation in intensive care.

“Absence of record doesn’t mean there’s an absence of consciousness,” Parnia said. “Ultimately, what we’re saying is, ‘This is the great unknown. We’re in uncharted territory.’ And the key thing is that these are not hallucinations. These are a real experience that emerges with death.” (CNN)

Sports International

Mo Farah fourth in final race of career

Mo Farah, one of the greatest British athletes of all time, finished fourth in the final race of his career at the Great North Run.

The 40-year-old four-time Olympic champion slipped off the pace early in the famous 13.1mile race from Newcastle to South Shields.

He finished three minutes 30 seconds behind Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola, who won in 59mins 58secs.

“It’s very emotional. There was a lot going through my mind,” Farah said.

He told BBC Sport: “All I know is running and that is what made me happy for so many years.

“Running is everything to me. Running is what saved me.”

‘Thank you for the memories, thank you for the medals’

Farah retires with a glittering CV.

He became the first Briton to

Only five Britons have more Olympic medals than Farah, who also won six world, five European and two European indoor titles as well as the Chicago Marathon in a career dating back more than two decades.

Farah waved to the crowd during the final 200m of the Great North Run before jogging back down the finishing straight to high-five fans,

many of whom were carrying ‘One Mo Time’ signs.

“Without the crowd I wouldn’t have got through it,” he said.

“I wanted to end my career here in Newcastle. I’ve had some amazing memories. It’s really important to come out here and give my support to the crowd.

“It’s very important to have a race like this. Without the support and community in Newcastle, it wouldn’t be the same.”

Former European 10,000m champion and Great North Run founder Brendan Foster said: “Mo Farah is the greatest sportsman or woman Britain has ever had. We’ll never see his type again.”

Steve Cram, the former 1500m world champion and now BBC commentator, said: “Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the medals. Thank you for all the excitement and drama.”

British Athletics described Farah, who was knighted in 2016, as “the greatest”, while Team GB tweeted: “Generation: inspired.”

What else happened at the Great North Run?

Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir, the Olympic marathon champion, won the women’s race in 1hr 6mins 45secs.

Compatriot Sharon Lokedi was 58 seconds behind in second, with Britain’s Charlotte Purdue third. Belgium’s Bashid Abdi was runner-up in the men’s race, 1min 22secs behind world marathon champion Tola. Ethiopia’s Muktar Edris was third.

Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Daniel Sidbury won the men’s wheelchair race in 42:48 and fellow Briton Samantha Kinghorn the women’s in 49:21.

Almost 60,000 people took part in the 42nd edition of the Great North Run, the biggest half marathon in the world.

Bill Cooksey, 102, walked the course to raise funds for the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.

Keith Turner became the first blind person to complete a half marathon untethered. His guide, Jim Roberts, rang a bell to direct Turner, who described running untethered as “freedom”. (BBC)

Australia

Cricket Australia makes neck protectors on helmets compulsory for batters

Cricket Australia has made it mandatory for batters to wear neck protectors on their helmets when facing fast or medium-pace bowling.

Australia’s Steve Smith and David Warner are not keen on wearing them but will now have to do so from 1 October.

Cricket Australia has recommended the use of neck protectors since the death of Phillip Hughes in November 2014.

Hughes was struck on the top of the neck by a ball during a Sheffield Shield match in Sydney.

He collapsed and died in hospital two days later.

The neck protectors attach to helmets to provide extra protection at the back of the head and neck.

Smith, who was concussed after being hit by a bouncer from England bowler Jofra Archer in a

Test match at Lord’s in 2019, has previously said they made him feel “claustrophobic”.

He did not initially wear one when he played for Sussex against Worcestershire in May and, as neck protectors are mandatory in county cricket, play was delayed by 10 minutes so he could fit one.

The ruling by Cricket Australia to make neck protectors compulsory comes after Australia all-rounder Cameron Green had to be substituted with concussion after being struck by a Kagiso Rabada bouncer in a one-day international against South Africa earlier this month.

“Protecting the head and neck is extremely important in our sport,” said Peter Roach, Cricket Australia’s head of cricket operations and scheduling.

Luke Comer: Irish trainer banned for three years over steroids in horses

Irish trainer Luke Comer has been banned from racing for three years after 12 of his horses tested positive for banned anabolic steroids in an “unprecedented” scandal.

He was also fined a total of 85,000 euros and the 12 horses banned from running for a period of two years.

Comer has been ordered to pay 755,754 euros (£650,000) in costs. He categorically denied that he or his staff were involved in doping the animals.

Comer admitted traces of banned steroids methandienone and methyltestosterone were found in

hair samples taken from the horses at his stables in County Meath.

The case failed to establish how the drugs got into the horses’ systems. Comer argued that hay fed to the horses may have been contaminated with drugs through pig slurry.

An Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board referrals committee, which dealt with the case, said the presence of banned substances in so many horses at one time was “quite unprecedented”.

“It is fair to say that there was no direct evidence of deliberate doping in this case,” it added.

“The board makes the case that there is no basis for concluding that there was environmental contamination.”

The billionaire property mogul made history three years ago when he saddled He Knows No Fear to be the longest-priced winner in racing history at odds of 300-1.

He Knows No Fear was among the horses based at Comer’s stables in County Meath that tested positive in November 2021.

The Irish St Leger, won by Eldar Eldarov at the Curragh last Sunday, was sponsored by the trainer’s Comer Group International. (BBC)

Farah won six consecutive Great North Run titles from 2014

complete the Olympic 5,000m and 10,000m double with victory in front of a joyous home crowd at London 2012, and defended his titles at Rio 2016.

The Comer-trained He Knows No Fear, left, became the longest-priced winner in racing history at odds of 300-1 when winning at Leopardstown in 2020

NBA to curb ‘load management’ for star players with strict new policy

The NBA Board of Governors approved a new “Player Participation Policy” (PPP) on Wednesday in order to combat the rise of ‘load management’ and ensure that basketball’s biggest names are on the court throughout the season.

The new rules, which have replaced the Player Resting Policy (PRP) introduced in 2017, are “intended to promote player participation in the NBA’s full 82game regular season” and prevent teams from resting more than one “star” player on any given night, often referred to as load management.

The PPP defines a star player as any individual who has been named to the All-NBA or All-Star teams in any of the previous three seasons. This means that the Boston Celtics, for example, are required to make at least one of their elite duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown available for every game across the regular season, providing neither are injured.

Forty-nine players are defined as stars by these new provisions across 26 different teams. However, only the 15 teams with multiple star players will be affected by this rule in particular.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the new regulations at a press conference

Teams will no longer be able to ‘load manage’ their star players and will be forced to make them - like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard for the Los Angeles Clippers - available for games when they are healthy

on Wednesday.

“This is ultimately about the fans, and that we’ve taken this [load management] too far,” Silver said. “This is an acknowledgment that it has gotten away from us a bit.

“That doesn’t mean we’re turning the clock back, that players are expected to play through injuries or that players never need rest. But there’s a statement of a principle in this league that, if you’re a healthy player, you’re going to play.”

The PPP, which is solely focused on star players, does not stop here, however. It also dictates that uninjured, eligible players are required to suit up for nationally televised games, as well as the entirety of the new in-season tournament which will begin in early November.

It also prevents the “shutdown” of star players towards the end of the season. Across previous years, teams have kept their best players out of action for the final stretch of the regular season and have been

accused of tanking – or deliberately not trying their best to win games – in an attempt to maximize the chances of getting a higher pick in the NBA Draft.

Examples from last season include the Washington Wizards shutting down Bradley Beal, who was suffering with “knee soreness” according to the team, for their final 10 games, while the Portland Trail Blazers filed Damian Lillard’s 11-game absence under “right calf soreness.” Under the new regulations, both teams would have been investigated and potentially fined by the league.

Teams must also “maintain a balance between the number of one-game absences for a star player in road games and the number of one-game absences for a star player in home games, with a preference under the Policy for such absences to occur in home games.”

Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors all played in a home loss against the Indiana Pacers last season, before all being rested for a trip to Salt Lake City to take on the Utah Jazz two days later. Again, this would constitute grounds for an investigation by the NBA under the 2023/24 guidelines.

The final element of the PPP is retained from the PRP – healthy

players that are sitting out games due to rest are expected to be present at games and visible to fans.

Silver emphasized the need for participation across the whole year and stated that the regulations are a “changed approach to reinforcing the notion that we’re an 82-game league.”

Teams will be fined $100,000 if they are found to have violated any of these rules. A second violation would bring about a $250,000 fine and a third would be $1.25 million. Any further violations would result in a team being fined $1 million more than its prior punishment.

Aside from injuries and personal reasons, exceptions to the regulations will be based on a player’s age, career minutes logged and injury history and must be submitted to the NBA a week in advance. LeBron James falls into all three of these categories (which are: 35 years old on opening night, 1,000 regular season games played and 34,000 minutes logged) and is therefore eligible for rest on occasion.

CNN has reached out to the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) for comment. Opening night of the NBA’s 78th regular season will tip off on Tuesday, October 24. (BBC)

Fifa Best Awards 2023: Haaland, Bruyne, Rice and Messi among nominees

Six players who helped Manchester City win the Treble in 2022-23 are among the nominees for the men’s player of the year at the 2023 Fifa Best Awards.

Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez, Kevin de Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Rodri and Bernardo Silva make up half of the 12 players in contention for the prize.

Two-time winner Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are also up for the prestigious award along with England’s Declan Rice.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is a nominee for coach of the year.

He faces competition from three other bosses including Tottenham’s former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou.

Argentina World Cup winner Messi is the current holder of the player of the year award.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who won the first two editions of the award, is not nominated after joining

Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr last December.

Rice, 24, is looking to become the first English player to win the prize.

Manchester City’s Ederson is nominated for best goalkeeper along with recent Manchester

United signing Andre Onana. The nominees were shortlisted by a panel of football experts that included former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

Voting for the eighth annual awards opened on Thursday on Fifa.com and closes in mid-

October.

National team coaches, captains, journalists and fans make up the list of voters.

Best Men’s Player: Julian Alvarez (Argentina/Man City); Marcelo Brozovic (Croatia/ Al Nassr); Kevin De Bruyne

(Belgium/Man City); Ilkay Gundogan (Germany/Barcelona), Erling Haaland (Norway/Man City); Rodri (Spain/Man City); Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia/ Napoli); Kylian Mbappe (France/ Paris St-Germain); Lionel Messi (Argentina/Inter Miami); Victor Osimhen (Nigeria/Napoli); Declan Rice (England/Arsenal) and Bernardo Silva (Portugal/Man City).

Best Men’s Coach: Pep Guardiola (Spain/Man City); Simone Inzaghi (Italy/Inter Milan); Ange Postecoglou (Australia/ Tottenham); Luciano Spalletti (Italy/Italy national team) and Xavi (Spain/Barcelona)

Best Men’s Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Morocco/Al Hilal); Thibaut Courtois (Belgium/Real Madrid); Ederson (Brazil/Man City); Andre Onana (Cameroon/ Man Utd) and Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Germany/Barcelona). (BBC)

Erling Haaland Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are also up for the prestigious award

Sports International

Diamond League: Laura Muir follows up Zurich

800m win with 1500m victory in Brussels

Britain’s Laura Muir followed up last month’s 800m Diamond League with victory in the 1500m in Brussels.

The Olympic 1500m silver medallist came sixth at the distance at last month’s World Championships in Budapest.

Jets quarterback Rodgers

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers says he is “completely heartbroken” to miss the rest of the NFL season with a torn Achilles tendon.

The four-time Most Valuable Player sustained the injury in his Jets debut against the Buffalo Bills on Monday.

Rodgers, widely considered one of the best quarterbacks of all time, joined the Jets after 18 years with the Green Bay Packers.

“The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again,” he said.

Posting on Instagram, Rodgers, who will be 40 in December, added: “I’m completely heartbroken and moving through all of the emotions, but deeply touched and humbled by the support and love. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I begin the healing process today.”

Zach Wilson, the second overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, is the Jets’ back-up quarterback and replaced Rodgers against the Bills.

The Jets went on to win 2216 in overtime, with Wilson throwing one touchdown and one interception, but their victory was heavily overshadowed by the

injury.

PLAYERS UNHAPPY WITH PITCHES

Rodgers’ injury has led to a renewed call from the NFL players’ union (NFLPA) to get rid of all artificial turf pitches and play the sport only on grass.

The MetLife Stadium pitch Rodgers was injured on has a new turf that was installed after the old one was branded one of the worst in the league.

The NFLPA is also unhappy that when NFL stadiums are used for football, they switch to grass pitches, as they will do for the 2026 World Cup.

Manchester United and Arsenal played at MetLife Stadium in July and a grass pitch was used.

“It makes no sense that stadiums can flip over to superior grass surfaces when the World Cup comes or soccer clubs come to visit for exhibition games in the summer, but inferior artificial surfaces are acceptable for our own players,” NFLPA boss Lloyd Howell said.

“This is worth the investment and it simply needs to change now.” (BBC)

But she bounced back with an 800m win in Zurich and maintained that form by winning the 1500m on Friday in a time of three minutes 55.34 seconds.

Team-mate Zharnel Hughes was second in the men’s 200m while Dina Asher-Smith came third in the women’s 100m.

Jamaica’s world champion

Shericka Jackson ran the fourth fastest time ever in the women’s 200m of 21.48 seconds, with Britain’s Darryl Neita fourth in 22.59.

The rarely-run 2,000m, which is not an Olympic or worlds event, was contested for the first time during this year’s Diamond League and Norwegian star Jakob Ingebrigtsen broke a world record which had stood since 1999, winning in 4:43:13.

Muir led going round the final bend and finished strongly to hold off Ciara Mageean, who won the event in Brussels last year in an Irish record.

The 31-year-old improved that

as she came fourth in Budapest and set another Irish record on Friday of 3:55.87, with Kenya’s Nelly Chepchirchir third (3:56.93).

World 100m bronze medallist Hughes battled it out with Kenny Bednarek but the American held off the Briton to win in 19.79, with Hughes second (19.82) and Canada’s Andre de Grasse third (19.89).

Asher-Smith started the women’s 100m strongly but faded over the final metres to finish third in 10.97, with Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah (10.84) winning ahead of fellow Jamaican Natasha Morrison (10.95).

BMW PGA Championship: Ludvig Aberg posts impressive opening round

Newly turned professional Ludvig Aberg warmed up for the Ryder Cup with an impressive opening round at the BMW PGA Championship.

The Swede outscored Ryder Cup team-mates Rory McIlroy and Viktor Hovland after posting a four-under-par 68 despite a double bogey on the 17th.

“Playing with Rory and Viktor was a lot of fun,” said Aberg, 23, who only turned professional in June.

Denmark’s Marcus Helligkilde is the clubhouse leader on eight under par.

England’s Matt Fitzpatrick and Scotland’s Richie Ramsay share second place on six under.

“The 17th was a little bit stupid but other than that I felt like I hit the ball great,” added Aberg, who was given a Ryder Cup wildcard hours after winning the European Masters in Switzerland earlier this month.

Hovland carded a three-under-

Ludvig Aberg began 2023 as an amateur and was ranked 3,073rd in the world

par 69 while McIlroy is a further three shots back.

Norway’s Hovland was full of praise for his Ryder Cup teammate Aberg.

“The way he’s played the last couple of months, he has not been a pro very long but he certainly doesn’t look scared of the

moment,” the world number four said.

“I think this week is a great experience for him but I think he’s ready regardless.

“He’s super talented and he is going to be around a long time. He’s going to do great things.”

(BBC)

Rodgers was the NFL’s MVP four times between 2011 and 2021 and won the Super Bowl in 2011

‘completely heartbroken’ after Achilles injury

Britain’s Laura Muir

Over 220 youngsters benefit from Sports Commission Summer Camps

The Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission successfully completed nine sport camps, on four islands over the summer, which led to the introduction or advancement of the knowledge/ skills of some 222 campers.

Students from the ages of 12-18 had opportunities to play and train at varying skill levels.

“The sports camps were successful, due to superseded expectations through high participation numbers and increased buy-in by budding athletes to continue training towards the Turks and Caicos Islands School Sports (TCISS) 2023/24 season,” information from the Commission disclosed.

It noted that the Commission financially supported the TCI Basketball Federation’s Elite Basketball Camp which was facilitated by NBA-certified coaches TJ Bannister and Ronald

Taylor from the United States.

The camps completed were: North Caicos Cricket; North Caicos Basketball; North Caicos Softball; North Caicos Sports Performance; South Caicos Sports Performance; Grand Turk Sports Performance; Providenciales Elite Basketball; Providenciales Sports Performance; Providenciales Track and Field and Providenciales Drillz & Skillz Basketball.

In addition to the sport camps, the commission facilitated the Project IDEA Media Club, offering practical learning opportunities and nurturing early careers in sport media. Students were afforded a three-month opportunity, to learn and utilise their photography, videography and cinematography skills.

Returning in November 2023, Project IDEA will re-open applications to students and graduates 14-21 years old.

The camps were also about promoting fitness and a healthy lifestyle

Some 222 youngsters benefitted from the camps

Cricket was taught in North Caicos

Senior

officials were

Guardians, Commanders and Skyhawks win PAL Basketball titles

THE Guardians, Commanders and Skyhawks split a title each when the curtains came down on the Police Action League (PAL) Boys’ Basketball Championships on Saturday last at the Gus Lightbourne Sport Complex Court.

Skyhawks had marched into the final day of play with all three teams in the varying age-group championship clashes, but it was only in the oldest age group, that they were able to win and that was by a nail-biting single point.

Against Seaquest, Skyhawks were able to register a 44-43 point victory in the final of the 17U division.

Third place went to Guardians.

Emrike Doceus was adjudged the League’s MVP (17U division); with Leroy Hyman finishing with the most points, Kelvin Talbot with the most rebounds and as the best defender and Malachi Missick with

the most steals.

In the 15U division, the Commanders defeated the Skyhawks by a single bucket 4644.

In the third-place clash, Avengers defeated the Badgers 4640.

Dashawn Lightbourne dominated the individual awards. He finished as the League’s MVP (15U division), with the most rebounds and as the best defensive player.

Doudly Santana finished with the most points and Love Joseph with the most steals.

In the youngest age group, the Guardians defeated Skyhawks by five points 36-31.

Third place proved to be a thrilling contest with Avengers defeating Commanders by a single point 29-28.

Deshawn Missick also

dominated the individual awards. He finished as the League’s MVP (13U), with the most points and most steals.

The most rebounds award went to Abraham Smith with the best defensive player title going to Marvens Berthier.

The 13U & 15U coaches were: Avengers - Kevin Harvey & Kenneth Grant; Badgers –Ladonna Bassett & Delton ‘Biggy’ Robinson; Guardians - Danord Handfield & Emileo Ariza; Seaquest – Ciaran O’Neill & Jerome Caley; CommandersAlvardo Parker & Darado Fulford and Skyhawks – Ludens Dorcius & Lofton Seymour.

The 17U coaches were Guardians – Walken Gedeon & Trevante Garland; SeaquestAnthony Cash; Avengers - Kevin Harvey & Kenneth Grant; Badgers – Ladonna Bassett & Delton ‘Biggy’ Robinson; CommandersAlvardo Parker & Darado Fulford; Skyhawks – Ludens Dorcius & Lofton Seymour.

The Guardians (middle) won the U13 division, with Skyhawks left and Avengers right

Acting Commissioner Rodwell Adams presents 13U player Deshawn Missick with his prizes

Dashawn Lightbourne collects his 15U division awards from the Director of Sport Jarrett Forbes Skyhawks won the 17U title