TC Weekly News April 15 - 21, 2023

Budget up for debate in mid-May

– Finance minister says process delayed due to logistics

BY DELANA ISLES

Logistics, which they hope to sort out next year, is what is delaying the 2023-2024 budget, Minister of Finance, Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders has stated.

Speaking with the Weekly News on Wednesday, April 12, the Minister and Deputy Premier said he expects the ministerial and departmental work – logistics – to be wrapped up at the end of April, and the process of debate to be conducted around May.

“We’re expecting to bring the budget in the week of May 15, when it will be brought to the House of Assembly and debated, and we’re expecting to get it done by the end of this month before the debate.”

When completed, the budget, also known as the Appropriations Ordinance, will be sent to the appropriations committee for review.

“It’s such a long process and getting everything from everyone, going through, tweaking it, and getting it right, that’s what the delay is,” the minister said.

“It’s always a slow process getting from all the departments, everything that they want, but we’re going to move to a mediumterm development strategy, so we know going into the budget this

is the strategy of the government versus for the departments to come and give their individual strategies.”

He said this way they won’t have to wait on individual departments to set their priorities and key performance indicators.

“That is why we are moving to a medium term-development strategy where it’s collectively done, so we all know the strategy going in from year to year.”

Saunders said he intends to have a more efficient process by next year “where we can actually start first of April”.

He said the Fiscal Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS) was sent off in January to the UK and they were happy with it, but that the government is still tweaking the document.

On March 15, Cabinet approved a revised FSPS 2023-27 to include funding for road improvements and electrification across all islands funded from cash reserves and it to be submitted to the UK and onward to the House of Assembly.

The minister also reminded that the TCI is at zero debt and has not run a deficit budget in quite a while, as such UK approval is not necessary.

“We don’t really need the UK to sign off on the budget as much as keeping them in the loop… once

we are not breaching any of the sustainability ratios… we don’t need them to sign off.”

The first time the TCI has not needed UK approval of its budget following the reinstatement of the Constitution, was in 2017, when the territory met all the debt sustainability indicators that are set out in the Framework Document

Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders

agreed between the governments of the United Kingdom and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The government is constitutionally bound to pass the budget by July and appears to be on track to do that much earlier

than the constitutional deadline. In the meantime, government business continues to be funded with the $140.3 million provisional warrant that was passed in midMarch, in anticipation of the budget being late.

Kristen Brown-Glinton appointed as Senior Finance Officer

Mrs Kristen Brown-Glinton has been appointed as the new Senior Finance Officer in the Financial Services and Supplies Management Unit (Treasury) within the Ministry of Finance, Investment, and Trade.

The Office of the Deputy Governor made the announcement on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.

Mrs Glinton holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Studies from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and a Master’s in Finance and Investment from the London School of Business and Finance.

She joined the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service in 1999 as a data processor and was later transferred to the newly formed Financial Services Commission (FSC). During her tenure with the FSC, Mrs Glinton served as a revenue officer, examiner/ administrative clerk, senior insurance administrator, and insurance analyst/supervisor within the International Insurance Unit.

Kristen Brown-Glinton

Published

Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large)

Cord Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large)

Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com

Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours)

Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

Follow us on:

Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews

Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1

Instagram: @tcweeklynews1

In 2018, Mrs Glinton rejoined the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service as a senior tax officer within the Inland Revenue Department and was later seconded to the Budget Department as a budget analyst.

Over the course of her career, Mrs Glinton received extensive training and earned certificates in anti-money laundering and business communication.

In commenting on her appointment, Mrs. Glinton stated:

“I am extremely honored to be appointed as Senior Finance Officer within the Financial Services and Supplies Management Unit (Treasury).

“I take this time to say thank you and that I am grateful for this

opportunity. I am confident that I would be able to make a positive contribution in the unit and look forward to working with the various departments.

“My motivational quote in life is “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Winston S. Churchill I am grateful because it is only by the grace of God whom directs my path and the motivation, encouragement and coaching of others that I am who I am and where I am today.”

Acting Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams, in extending congratulatory remarks to Mrs. Glinton, stated: “It gives me great pleasure to officially announce and congratulate Mrs Kristen Brown-

Glinton in her appointment as Senior Finance Officer.

Senior Finance Officers play a critical role in the success of government operations and our ability to deliver on-time services to the public and projects for the public.

She said: “Mrs Glinton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Financial Services and Supplies Management Unit (Treasury) and we are sure she will add an invaluable contribution to the continued operation and integrity of our financial processes.

“As seen with her past experiences Mrs. Glinton is not afraid of new tasks or challenges and we are confident in her ability to continue on the same path with this role.”

Active and healthy real estate market in Q1 of 2023

BY DELANA ISLES

Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained a healthy and active real estate market in the first quarter of 2023, even as condo and vacant land sales decreased.

Sean O’Neill, Managing Director of The Agency Turks and Caicos in his company’s quarterly report said that while the TCI did not see the same highs as the North American market during the COVID real estate boom, it has not seen the same drop, which the US especially is now experiencing.

“We are a long-term real estate market where, partly because all a buyer’s property tax is paid on closing, rather than annually, therefore we do not attract many people merely seeking to flip properties. As a result, the viewpoint of a buyer in the Turks and Caicos is different to those who may have sought a shorterterm profit in other markets.”

He said there remains significant interest in the $1M market and above $3.5M, however, the gap in the middle is reflective of those most likely to have benefitted from lower interest rates in 2020-2022 as well as built equity in primary homes which could be utilised for

borrowing.

He noted that only three properties listed between $1.5M and $3.5M sold in the first quarter of 2023, excluding previously agreed pre-construction sales at Beach Enclave, SouthBank and the Ritz Carlton.

This, he continued, compares to 19 sales in the same price range in 2022 and 14 in 2021.

According to O’Neil, this does not mean there are no buyers at this price point, rather it is indicative of a reset in certain parts of the market.

The market is not quiet, O’Neil stressed, it is more a case of well-priced and well-marketed properties moving swiftly.

“When inventory is tight, agents and brokers have to work harder. That is why it feels that these three months have flown by. Our team has been out there hustling and working hard for our clients, buyers and sellers.”

He noted that limited inventory has meant that the number of sales has reduced but an increase in the average sales price of more than 35% shows that the demand remains there.

“Strong tourist numbers highlight the continued demand for visitors to visit our shores and

with every flight comes more and more potential purchasers. These visitors, and the rental revenue that they produce, are a major driver for our reduced inventory.

“Many of our purchasers are seeking income-generating properties and our superb airlift is allowing those revenues to surpass expectations.”

However, one area that is doing well is single-family homes.

O’Neil said the statistics appear to show that single-family homes (SFH) bucked the trend of the other sectors in the first quarter of 2023, exceeding the recorded numbers for the same period in 2022.

“The reality is that a number of these sales are pre-construction villas that have had agreed terms at earlier dates and have been recorded now. With almost four times as many single-family homes listed in the Turks and Caicos as there are condos there is more choice in the SFH sector and significantly greater variety.”

He said he expects to see this sector continue to flourish, especially where buyers gravitate toward the AirBnB/VRBO rental model that has seen so much success over the last few years.

Condo sales, meanwhile,

continue to drop.

“When you see new listings reduced by 45% on the previous year that is always going to have a knock-on effect on sales and that can clearly be seen in the condo sector in Q1.”

He said as of the morning of April 3, there are only three constructed condos that are actively listed in the TCI, an astonishingly small number of properties for a country that has 22 condo hotels on Grace Bay Beach alone.

“The majority of our guests come and stay in resorts, therefore their initial emotional connection to the Islands is in these communities. That tells us why well-priced properties are not lasting long on the market.

“Revenues are up, and owners are happy, so buyers need to ensure that when the right property comes along, they are primed and ready to move.”

As for land sales, North Caicos is still primed for development, but challenges of accessibility of labour remain.

Some statistics, when viewed on their own, can be downright shocking, especially an 84% decrease in undeveloped land sales from the first quarter of 2022 to

the same period in 2023, O’Neil observed.

However, he said on closer inspection, the sale of a four-acre hotel site on Grace Bay Beach for $20M in 2022 is going to deeply skew numbers, as that is not a ‘normal’ sale.

“Even absent that example the sale of vacant land in Q1 reduced significantly year on year. There were significantly fewer sales and only one that topped $1M, and just barely at that.”

He said what they have seen is more locals purchasing homesites, which is an important step in ensuring that the rise in the real estate market provides opportunities not just to investors but those who live in TCI.

“With 30% of the vacant land sales being on Islands other than Providenciales, we continue to see a push towards long-term investment in the outer islands.

“We keep saying it but, North Caicos remains on the crest of a wave of activity, the only thing currently absent being the workforce to allow vacant landowners to construct on their properties without the cost of bringing crews over by boat from Provo every day.”

Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained a healthy and active real estate market in the first quarter of 2023

DEMOLITION

A staggering 37 informal structures were demolished in the Lower Bight and Five Cays, Providenciales recently, freeing up over 24 acres of private land. The massive demolition exercise which drew mixed reactions from residents saw 35 illegal structures believed to be occupied by some 140 persons in the Bight and two unoccupied buildings in Five Cays reduced to rubble. The newly established Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) in a post-operations statement issued on Friday, March 31, explained that the containment activities were undertaken in the Bight and Five Cays, Providenciales on Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th of March, 2023.

Man accused of stabbing US tourist faces serious charges

Santo Charles, 35, will face the court next week to answer several charges relating to the stabbing of an American tourist in Grace Bay, Providenciales.

The frightening incident occurred around 8:05 am, April 02, 2023, in the vicinity of Salt Mills, Grace Bay, where a 48-year-old United States tourist was viciously wounded by the 35-year-old Haitian National.

According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force (RTCIPF) following investigations, the Serious Crimes Team has charged Santo Charles with the offence of wounding; one count of carrying an offensive weapon; four counts of using an offensive weapon, so as to cause fear and one count of assault on police.

On the morning of the incident, videos and images captured by onlookers showed a white car stationary in the middle of the street in Grace Bay, with the visiting

tourist who was the occupant of that vehicle.

During a confrontation with the male assailant, the tourist received knife wounds and was rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where he was treated.

Charles who appeared irritated was seen brandishing a weapon and repeating the words “I’m willing to negotiate”, to police officers who were also on the scene.

Other eyewitness videos showed the suspect launching at the officers who confronted him in an attempt to apprehend him and render assistance to the victim.

Prior to the incident on Sunday, Charles was in police custody overnight, having been involved in an unrelated incident at a resort where he caused a disturbance.

The incident involving the US tourist happened shortly after his release, according to the Commissioner of Police.

The accused was arrested at the scene and remains in police custody.

In a synopsis of the operations, the ISU explained that during the demolition in the Bight, representatives from the ISU Working Group, the Ministry of Planning and Infrastructure, the Human Rights Commission, the fire department, the police, the electricity and water utility providers and Social Services were on site to witness the demolition. The containment activities took place on parcel 60802/17,

Illegal

Not the squatters’ land and not the squatters’ rights.

What about crown land?

Who paid for this, as these was privately owned properties? If they can do it for privately owned properties, what is the hold up on demolishing what is crown land to free up for people like myself to buy and build legally? This don’t make half sense.

Homeless?

Demolishing slums is a good policy if the government ensures that homeless numbers don’t rise. We don’t want to create areas loaded with homeless folks.

Heartbreaking, but necessary

It’s heartbreaking but necessary, the shanty towns are cropping up

(24 acres) The Bight and Thomas Stubbs whose lands are privately owned and from which a total of 35 illegal structures were safely cleared. It is believed that the structures had been occupied by a total of 140 persons.

The proprietor’s representative of this privately owned land was also present for the exercise and was fully cooperative and supportive of activities being carried out by the ISU. The owners had reached out to the Department of Planning to assist in the demolition procedures and the clearing of their properties.

What are your thoughts?

all over the TCI and many of these places are breeding grounds for all sorts of malicious activities, yes people need a place to dwell but this is not the right way.

Needed intervention

This should’ve been happening a long time ago, why did it take the Government such a long time to tear down these unsightly buildings, the land they’re occupying belong to other people, what about the rights those people have? Don’t they matter too?

A necessary evil

It’s always brutal to destroy someone’s home. Many of those 140 persons might have been children or be honest people working with an honest living, but some might not have been. We need to take the bull by the horn in the TCI. There needs to be a necessary evil to get our once-beautiful country back to its pristine beauty. We cannot let our emotions

side-track our rational minds. We need to only look towards Haiti to see the shacks and the crime and corruption that comes with them. We are barely keeping our heads above water, we are not a free for all. Nor should we be responsible for illegals and finding homes for them.

Deport the illegals

Immigration needs to also be at these locations, if you are without work permits, you need to be sent home. We are willing to implement these rules for actual working people, who contribute to the growth and development of the TCI, what about persons who come here and just feed off of our resources?

BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR

Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

(Accused) Santos Charles stands next to the car with the wounded victim

$109m approved for hotel development across TCI – major community enhancement projects underway

Some $109m has been approved by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PPID) for the construction of hotel developments in the TCI and millions more are being spent to upgrade public infrastructure.

This was recently revealed by Mr Danier Lightbourne, Director of Planning within the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PPID).

He said: “We have approved over $109m of projects for the Turks and Caicos Islands, this includes a hotel in Grand Turk and several other hotel properties in Providenciales.”

Lightbourne recently updated the general public on the ongoing works of the ministry and approved projects to be undertaken during the course of this year in a video presentation disseminated by the Ministry.

He explained that the Department of Physical Planning is keen on approving projects that are aligned with the territory’s newly approved National Physical Development Plan.

He stressed that the Ministry has the mandate to facilitate development through optimal utilisation of the territory’s limited land resources.

“The process by which the department aims to achieve this is through effective and orderly land use planning and management.

“As you may be aware, the department completed its National Physical Development Plan, which

is used as a guide for physical development and serves as an overarching framework for the use of land and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“As the department received planning applications for development, they approved success with this overall development goal and guidelines in mind.”

He further explained that the Department of Planning is also responsible for investigating and monitoring illegal development in tandem with various stakeholder involvement and consultation with inter-government departments and the general public alike.

“The department is working closely with the newly established illegal development unit to address the very important issue of legal development and the Turks and Caicos Islands through the efficient and effective work of this essential department.

“We hope to continue to keep the Turks and Caicos Islands resilient, inclusive, caring, peaceful, and simply beautiful.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PPID) Hon Jamell Robinson explained that a number of rehabilitation projects have been completed, some are still ongoing and others will get underway in the next financial year.

He said: “From an infrastructure standpoint and projects, we have refurbished and repaired the Salt Cay salt shed, in Grand Turk we refurbish and reinstated

Front Street, we added an HJ Robinson High School block, we also reinstated in Victoria Public Library, amongst other things.

“In South Caicos, we fixed the public tank as well as refurbished the canal.

He continued: “On North Caicos, we did extensive work on road repair to the tune of $2m.

“In Providenciales, we completed the Enid Capron classroom block, as well as installed backup generators across the island for our critical infrastructure.”

Robinson explained that during the next fiscal year, several projects geared towards enhancing the lives of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands will be rolled out.

He said: “We’re going to do extensive roads, electrification, solar lighting across the Turks and Caicos Islands to the tune of up to

$10m points and bridges are going to be refurbished over the next year.

“Projects that are due to be completed are things such as the Grand Turk Sports Complex, as well as the Raymond Gardner High School technical block.

“And that’s not to see what’s going to happen with the community enhancement programme that we are very, very excited about this… you’ll feel throughout the communities throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Member of Parliament for the District of Blue Hills, Mr Randy Howell also updated the public on some of the community enhancement work being done in his constituency and throughout the islands.

He said: “We’re talking about

the cleaning of drainage and new drainage systems and Blue Hills, especially for you, you’re going to see repairs done to the jetty the focal point of Blue Hills.

“You’re going to see beach cabanas being built around the jetty district.

“You’re going to see the grading of roads throughout some of the main subdivisions where people reside.”

He continued: “You’re going to see the continuation of the sidewalk from where it stopped presently to another corner and going down through Wheeland…to the muchneeded new passageway from the district to the downtown area or the lower high bay area to ease that morning and evening traffic, as I said before, for you Blue Hills, great things coming to you for this year.”

NEEDED

Mr Danier Lightbourne, Director of Planning within the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PPID).

Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PPID) Hon Jamell Robinson

Member of Parliament for the District of Blue Hills, Hon Randy Howell

The ultimate sacrifice for you and me

Last week, many of us celebrated the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, a very significant event in the history of the Christian Faith. This article will focus on the seven last statements Jesus Christ made while on the cross.

“Father forgive them, for they know what not what they have done.” Despite being taken advantage and treated so meanly, Jesus still asked God to forgive them. I believe this is a great example for us to live by. Forgive people no matter how they treat you. Jesus could have asked God to do anything to his tortures. He could have asked God to deal with them. He could have asked God to destroy them. He could have asked God to kill them. Instead, he asked God to forgive them. What about you?

Jesus was hung on the cross between two criminals. One of those criminals asked Jesus to

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

remember and of course Jesus replied and said “I tell you the truth, today, you will be me in Paradise.” You see even on the cross, this dying criminal recognized Jesus and was given an opportunity to live in Paradise with Jesus. This act alone demonstrate that you too can have an opportunity even on your dying bed. However, you do not have to wait until you are dying because you can die suddenly so it is best now to ask Jesus to come

into your heart.

“Dear Woman, here is your son and to the disciple, here is your mother.” Jesus was concerned about his mother and so he entrusted his mother in the care of his disciple. Even on the cross and in pain, Jesus has demonstrated how we should be concern about the wellbeing of our parents. He did not put her into anybody’s hand but into the hands of someone that has demonstrated a commitment to God.

“Eli, Eli, lama sabachtani? My God, My God, why have you forsaken me? I believe as a human and particularly a born again Christian, when you go through pain and suffering, you feel that God has forsaken you. Perhaps these words are to demonstrate to us that he knows how we feel too when we are suffering.

Jesus Christ was also dehydrated and exhausted and as a result he was physically thirsty and so he was expressing his thoughts with the words “I am thirsty.’. Again, this illustrates to us that he understands our hurt and pain as humans.

I appreciate the seven statements that Jesus Christ made but my favourite statement is the sixth statement which is, “it is finished.” The debt was paid. He completed what he came to earth to do. He came to save me and you.

Honour the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ War against the dollar: Would they succeed and what it means for the TCI?

The US dollar, king of all currencies, is facing a revolt worldwide – a sinister idea festered in the minds of the BRICS – an economic bloc incorporating Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa – embarking on a journey to wean the dollar of its de facto world reserve currency status.

One may ask, how did the dollar come to rule the financial universe? After World War II, in 1944, allied countries convened in Bretton Woods, USA with the goal of eluding another financial meltdown. They created a system, bearing a set of rules, which eventually shaped the global economy as we know it today.

BY D MARKIE

They inaugurated the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, and established a new exchange rate system, where each country pegged the value of their indigenous currency to the dollar; hence, the dollar gained its dominance.

Today, the dollar is widely used

outside the US and there are about one trillion notes in circulation. More so, 40 per cent of the world’s debt is issued in dollars; coupled with, nearly 60 per cent of the global currency reserves, and approximately 90 per cent of all foreign exchange trade involves the dollar, but now, the gang of dictators vowed to end this reign.

Communist China is the aggressor, entering bilateral currency swaps with 41 countries totalling 500 billion dollars and influencing other totalitarian regimes inside BRICS; along with, Iran, Venezuela, and potentially Saudi Arabia, as China becomes Saudi Arabia’s biggest customer.

The Asian giant has also become Brazil’s biggest trade partner, trading using their own

Jesus now knew his time of crucifixion was over, so his final statement was “Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit.” You see he committed his spirit to Lord even in death. Of course, while on earth being alive, he did the same thing.

Despite being betrayed by Judas, Jesus knew that he was going to die and rise again. It was the ultimate sacrifice for you and me. I thank God for the resurrection and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

I conclude by encouraging those of us who are already committed to the Lord to continue to live for him. Those who are not committed yet, I hope after reading this article, you have an appreciation and an understanding of the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made and if you do, I encourage you to commit to the Lord.

currency, and since then, they’ve recorded bilateral trade of $150.5b in 2022.

But there is a huge problem! India, a member of BRICS, is also competing for the global reserve currency crown. Last year, India’s reserve bank allowed trade settlements in the Indian rupee. Following this, banks in 18 international countries have expressed interest and have since opened special accounts.

And Brazil, another member of BRICS, and Argentina floated the idea of a South American currency.

So, why communist countries are so aggressive toward the dollar remains the biggest question!

Experts say, China is spearheading this scheme to internationalise the yuan through the coalition of dictators. Brazilian President Luiz da Silva claimed, dropping the dollar would reduce trade costs, bolster bilateral trade and facilitate investments.

However, it was Elon Musk –the billionaire global CEO – who blames President Biden’s foreign policy, for tightening sanctions

against Russia.

So, what does this mean for countries like the TCI that use the dollar? Some argue China’s experiment with a central bank digital currency will accelerate the shift to a post-dollar world and once the dollar loses its reserve status, it will devalue with a soaring interest rate and market mayhem will ensue.

Monica Crowley, former US treasury assistant secretary warns of a ‘complete economic implosion’ if BRICS pursues dedollarization. This would have geopolitical consequences and; hence, would impact tourism.

A contrarian view suggests, the yuan is simply not convertible, as this phenomenon depends on policy and not technology, as the yuan share of Swift transaction slumped 2.3 percent in February this year.

Despite incessant financial shocks that keep hitting the dollar, it still stands strong in the world’s economy.

Therefore, lawmakers must stay abreast, weigh the facts and plan for the future!

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.

SPRING

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

SIPT trial in TCI, impediment or political gimmick?

It’s time to bring an end to the SIPT trial or compel the British Government to pay for its continuance.

SIPT – an acronym for “Special Investigation and Prosecution Team” in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Since its commencement in the first few months of December 2015, despondently, it has officially become one of the longest if not the longest corruption trials in history.

With news stories developing so rapidly on social media these days, how easy it is for one to forget what’s going on with this once closely watched trial. The time has come for our people to wake up and realise the financial impact this trial having on our country.

Our economy is finally making a remarkable rebound from the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic; yet, the trial

BY ED FORBES

of the century is on its eighth year and is still ongoing with so many uncertainties and leaving more questions than answers.

To make matters worse, we the people are being forced to continue bearing the cost of this trial, with no end in sight.

According to their projections in 2018, reported by TCI Weekly News, the price tag was set to top $36 million. There have been endless adjournments and delays which have caused the process to drag on. One could only imagine the absorbing cost leading up to 2023.

With a lifelong career in fighting major crimes both civilly and criminally, I have always

been of the mind-set that we should let justice take its course. Nevertheless, how much longer can the country endure this burden?

In my opinion, from the onset of this trial, the cost of any special investigation and the prosecution team should have been footed by the British government. I am sure there are others out there who share similar sentiments.

As a British overseas territory, we have a rule of law in place that governs transfer of land protocols, and the governor has veto powers. Therefore, if the buck stops with the governor who is an appointed British head of state, why are the people of this great country bearing

the brunt of this burden?

With the rising cost of inflation, in times like these, such funds could be better used to offset the cost of basic staple food items, energy, and fuel factor, etc.

By no means am I excusing any alleged wrongdoing on the behalf of the named defendants, because I frown upon corruption at any level.

Nevertheless, let’s be real here, place the financial responsibility on the shoulders of the British government where it should be.

Bullied or no bullied, if any documents were presented to the governor on the basis of a false prospectus or a false proposition by cabinet ministers as alleged, the governor had the authority to question it. He also had representatives from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office at his beck and call.

Former Governor Dakin stealthy

exhibited that during his reign, and in essence, who really calls the shots. This proves that it’s not so easy to strong-arm a person in his position.

Our people should be up in arms over the lack of full accountability in this matter. This goes way beyond partisan politics and this is where we need to unite for once for the betterment of our fellowmen. This trial is having unparalleled effects on our tight fiscal budgets and a fragile tourism-driven economy.

For the good of the country, let’s develop an appetite to collectively voice our opinions and remove this undeserved burden from off our backs, and the backs of our future generation.

Let’s put country before party and not fight against one another, but against what I would consider entrenched and arbitrary systems of colonial and political injustices.

80% is good enough!

Eight reasons why you shouldn’t seek perfection in a partner

I was in the hot-tub last week with a friend-of-a-friend, when the notion of perfection made its way into the conversation.

We have become so obsessed with perfection that far-toooften, we magnify the slightest flaws in others and bypass all of the great qualities they may have… But the truth of the matter is that perfection remains vastly overrated.

We demand 100% from our kids, friends, employees_ and we want nothing but a “perfect” partner. As I am getting older, I have become less pedantic. Adopting a laissez-faire approach has given me so much more pleasure than I could ever have imagined_ so I suggest you do the same. Looking for the good in people has truly allowed me to sleep peacefully at night.

For those of you who are in a relationship, let me make it make sense for y’all. You will not find perfection in another human. That’s that. You may

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

come close to it, but perfect does not even exist! If you find someone who fulfills most of the things that are “important” to you, keep them.

The tall, dark and handsome man you want will certainly come with multiple baggage. And the ideal woman you have crafted in your head is rather far from what you’ll actually get. So when you find someone who comes remotely close to your ideal woman or man, you should embrace it, because you aren’t perfect either.

Here are eight reasons to let

go and worry less when looking for a partner. If she or he is 80%. Take it. It’s good enough.

PERFECTION LEADS TO DISAPPOINTMENTS

This almost goes without saying and has been backed up by life itself. Expecting perfection in others will most certainly turn into disappointments. Not asking you to accept mediocracy, just be open to human error.

GIVE IT A GO

In so many cases, the less favoured candidates turned

out to be the most authentic companions. Be mindful that the perfect partner may come in a less desirable wrapping-paper. So open it.

PERFECTION IS THE ENEMY OF GOOD

Do not waste time looking for perfection. It’s too easy to strive for perfection and lose sight of the fact that you’re, in many cases, doing this at a huge overall cost.

FOCUSING ON PERFECTION TAKES YOUR FOCUS AWAY FROM THE THINGS THAT REALLY MATTER

Make a list of the things that matter to you and not the things that are perceived to matter. Someone with integrity matters, someone with lovely hair, not so much.

YOU DO NOT KNOW IT ALL

You may not know what you

really want until you try it. Take some risks.

LOOK IN THE MIRROR

Just as you have flaws, so is everyone else. Let it go.

PERFECTION IS IMPOSSIBLE

Every physical thing is in a constant state of change, so even if you think someone is perfect now, they won’t be perfect for long. Give it up. Do not hang up on shallow perfections.

80% IS GOOD ENOUGH

Better settle with someone who ticks 80% of what you’re after as long as they have a good heart. The 80% can well be your 85% in the end. It is as good as it gets.

WHAT DOES THE PERFECT PARTNER LOOK LIKE?

I am intrigued to find out. Share and sent to louisedens@gmail. com

A concerned citizen of Grand Turk

Hundreds of teachers celebrated at grand appreciation gala

Close to 500 teachers from both public and private schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands were recently recognised for their hard work and indelible contributions to the education sector.

Teachers gathered at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex on the evening of March 30th, 2023 to attend a Grand Gala that was meticulously planned in their honour by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports & Social

Services.

The event which saw teachers and other attendees treated to a host of performances was held under the auspices of Hon Rachel Taylor Minister responsible for Education, Youth, Sports & Social Services under the theme “Honouring our Human Capital in Education”.

The evening was one of elegance and excellence as the honourees were all decked out

in stylish attires, and their faces beamed with excitement, laughter, and appreciation as the night of surprises and entertainment unfolded.

Her Excellency Governor (Ag) Anya Williams, the Minister for Education, Youth, Sports & Social Services, Hon Rachel Taylor, as well as the Minister for Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon Jamell Robinson, brought remarks and

presented awards and gifts of appreciation during the National Teachers’ Award segment.

According to a statement from the Ministry, the National Teachers’ Awards Committee tasked the Educators with nominating and voting for the top awardee in various special categories ranging from Principal and Vice Principal of the Year to Unsung Hero and Teacher of the Year Awards, among others.

“In addition, the Lifetime Achievement Awards honoured teachers serving over 25 years and have made notable contributions to their institution and the sector,” the Ministry said.

During the gala, guests were dined, dazzled and entertained by the vivacious MC Super P and other local songbirds, Tess Charles and Mrs Robyn Forbes.

Teachers were also wowed by performances from students and

Teachers appreciation gala

the evening culminated with an exhilarating performance by ProVision Band.

NATIONAL TEACHERS AWARDS 2023 WERE AS FOLLOWS:

▪ Principal of the Year- Primary Education: Ms Earleen Elliott (ISPS)

▪ Principal of the Year- Secondary Education: Mrs Janet Walkin (RGHS) and Mrs Indrani

Saunders (ISTCI)

▪ Vice-Principal of the YearPrimary Education: Mr Temard Butterfield (OGPS)

▪ Vice-Principal of the YearSecondary Education: Mrs Claudell Miller (HJRHS)

▪ Teacher of the Year-Early Childhood Education: Mrs Monique Virgil-Lightbourne (ELSPS)

▪ Teacher of the Year–Primary Education: Ms Wilnide Dorely

(IPPS) and Mr. Keron BrownEllington (IPPS)

▪ Teacher of the Year-Secondary Education: Ms Racquel Simons (HJRHS) and Mr. Randy Ford (CHHS)

▪ Unsung Hero Award: Ms Raquel Simons (HJRHS)

▪ Digital Innovator of the Year: Mr Samuel Lawrence (ALGTHS)

▪ Excellence in Special Needs Education: Ms Everett Green (CHHS)

▪ Assistant Teacher of the Year: Ms Antwinique Forbes (ELSPS)

▪ School Counsellor of the Year: Ms Diane Paul (ALGTHS)

▪ Lifetime Achievement in Education went to several individuals including: Mrs Hyacinth Fulford (ISPS), Mrs Beverly Malcolm (ISPS), Mrs Michelle Been-Williams (ECPS), Mrs Lea Deane (ECPS), Ms Andrea Cope (ECPS), Mrs Vinette Forbes (OJPS), Mrs

Stephanie Thomas (IPPS), Mrs Karlene Cox (IPPS), Ms Lacher Thomas (TLPS), Mrs Robin Cox-Foster (TLPS), Mrs Madiea Traille-Davidson (CHJPS), Ms Degrie Jennings (CHJPS), Mrs Uldean HarrisWright (CHJPS), Ms Laureen Robinson (ELSPS), Mr Nigel Brown (HJRHS), Mrs. Tanya Keize-McAulay (HJRHS), Dr Vivian Otuonye (ALGTH) and Mrs Dhrupattie Khan (CHHS).

Cost of breadbasket items remains steady –

but retailers still operating on ‘honour system’, with no checks in place

BY DELANA ISLES

The cost of breadbasket items in the TCI has been holding moderate from February to March, a fact observed in the monthly report from the Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition.

However, this means little since the cost of food in the TCI is reflective of the rising cost of food in the United States where reports indicate food prices remain stubbornly high, after an uptick in February.

CBS reported on Wednesday, April 12, that inflation eased to 5% in March, its lowest level in almost 2 years.

A year ago, the TCI government introduced several measures to

address the rising cost of living in the territory, among them cutting the customs processing fee (CPF) and an exemption on import duty for retailers.

However, meat, fish and chicken are all substantially pricier than they were two years ago, as well as cereal and bread, which cost about 20% more today than they did in 2021.

In August 2022, the government implemented a suite of measures to bring some relief to residents.

Among those measures was the slashing of import duties on items such as: rice, flour, grits, bread, spaghetti/instant noodles, macaroni & cheese dinner, cornflakes – cereal, chicken, Vienna canned sausage, fresh and

canned meats, cheese, evaporated milk, eggs, cooking oil, fruits, sugar, instant baby food/juices, water, cleaning supplies (gloves, bleach, alcohol, Lysol detergent), disinfectant (bleach, hand sanitiser, antibacterial soap), adult and baby diapers, protein nutritional shakes such as ensure, boost or Glucerna, and tea and coffee.

And on March 15, Cabinet approved the extension to the Customs (Import Duty Exemption) (No. 2) Order 2022 and (Customs Processing Fee) (Variation of Rate) (No. 2) Order 2022 (the Order), exempting the payment of Import Customs Duties and Customs Processing Fee on the importation of Breadbasket Items to September 30, 2023.

Who is really benefiting from the import duties on food items being slashed?

This means continued savings for retailers.

However, questions remain as to who is monitoring whether businesses are passing these savings on to consumers, and whether measures will be put in place to halt price gouging.

The Weekly News reached out to the Minister of Finance, Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders for some insight. He shared that they do not have measures in place just yet to ensure consumers are reaping the benefits of price cuts to

retailers.

Rather, they are working with an “honour system”.

“We have not taken an approach where we’ve been going and saying to the retailer why haven’t these prices changed, this seems excessively high given that you’ve gotten some concessions.

“Right now, we’re depending on the retailers, to be honest.” He said the approach that has been taken is to provide the

Caribbean aviation of the future

Just imagine. A small island, or a short runway, or just a resort with ample open space. Out of the blue sky comes an airplane and lands right there, like a helicopter, and brings forty passengers. You will think that this is not just imagination, but rather hallucination pure. It would be a dreamer’s island hopper.

You may call her a dreamer, yet Freshta Farzam is taking an all or nothing approach to future mobility.

Who is ‘her’? Freshta is the CEO and Founder of LYTE Aviation based in Germany and the UK, that may turn the tables in Caribbean aviation from small island hoppers to an aircraft of 40 passengers that lands and takes off vertically and will have a range of 1,000km (540nm) range and top speed of 300km/h (186mph). Enough to connect the short runways of St.Barth, Saba, Nevis or Montserrat with the US hub San Juan, Puerto Rico or other hubs in the region.

The future face of regional aviation doesn’t have to be complex and futuristic looking. LYTE is developing a conventional airframe design for forty passengers. But the tandem tiltwing design allows flying forward as well as hovering. Thus, flying vertically as well as

CDR BUD SLABBAERT

Throughout

professional activities,

horizontally and using a square landing pad, whereas other aircraft have no alternative than only flying horizontally and using a runway stretch. The vertical dimension is where added value can be found.

In life, it is not always the strongest or the biggest who wins, but rather the fastest and smartest who wins. The new development may mean three times faster, with greater fuel efficiency, and flying throughout the Caribbean in a fast, safe, cost-effective and sustainable way. One can call smart for sure.

“They used to call me a dreamer whenever I came with bold ideas on how to scale up existing technologies,” says Farzam. “Then I understood that it is all about my own mindset to adjust first. Then I will attract the right collaborators on my journey. So, I jumped on the horse myself and researched

Bud has written numerous articles and columns for international and regional magazines.

As a specialist in strategic communication, he aims to ensure that the essential information is noticed by the senses, sticks in the mind, and affects thinking, behaviour, or activities of an audience.

and created for the last three years, with an amazing expert aerospace team who collectively have 200 years of aviation experience. The solution will definitely hit a nerve in aviation and tourism industries.”

For the green and sustainable energy geeks. LYTE has opted for a hybrid, partly electric VTOL. The LA4 is powered by four conventional turbine engines, running on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) complemented with four electric motors at the wingtips for control and stability, powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The ambition is to become fully hydrogen-electric as development progresses. It is phenomenal to become a force in the flourishing market of hydrogen, that in many ways will take over from the dominating fossil fuel industry.

Prior to founding LYTE

Aviation. Freshta was responsible for scaling up innovative hydrogen technologies, from production to infrastructure. She specialized in helping companies and entrepreneurs grow their innovative renewable technology business by introducing them to the right investors or business partners for creating bold solutions.

“Some companies lack the courage to look beyond ‘what is’, and I helped them to see boldly ‘what actually can be’ with the right partners. I have been able to help my clients to really increase their engagement and grow their business by 200–300% in less than 6-12 months. And that’s what I’m passionate about, expanding my own and other company’s horizons by strategically connecting the right dots.”

LYTE Aviation first targets

markets when developing, instead of like others, developing something and then trying to find a market. The company intends to create THE wow-experience by excellence for the Caribbean. The future may be sooner than you think. Although admitting that it may take a bit of time to develop and get certified, therefore also the latest state of the art features that are currently under development in the technology industry and can be integrated in the LA-44. A fullscale prototype could realistically be ready within two years depending on the support it gets. When making a five-year plan for air transportation in the Caribbean region, one may want to plan this as an option that rather sooner than later will become reality. LYTE may turn on a light for those who like to think brightly. The LA-44 will be their SKYBUS. “It is time to give the air travel a next-level disruption because the Caribbean needs it and is ready now,” says Freshta Farzam. “We sometimes don’t have to reinvent the wheel, we just need to look at it from a different perspective, and still, we are able to expand horizons and create necessary change in certain rigid mindsets and industries.”

Commander Bud Slabbaert from Sint Maarten is the initiator and chairman of the Caribbean Aviation Meetup conferences.

his

he was involved in international aviation promotion, development and management matters in the region and in Europe.

Leave Salt Cay for a prolonged period of time and you’ll soon realise what you miss the most about it. It’s people.

Thinking about the stars, without wondering about them

A return to writing, Salt Cay and tranquillity

In the end, it was the readers. Readers from all walks of life, readers in Salt Cay, Grand Turk, Providenciales, and indeed from all over the Turks and Caicos. Readers like a certain cashier in a Grand Turk grocery store, the head of the water sports department of a major resort on Provo, a civil servant in one of the many government offices — all of them, week after week, in texts, emails and conversations had been urging me, in some cases positively nagging, to write again. The final push to get me back behind the keyboard (I was almost tempted to say typewriter) came from my daughter Elphina who encouraged me during one of our evening walks along Salt Cay’s Victoria Street to start writing again. And with that, the decision was made.

So now it’s back to the notepad with new ideas for various columns which will hopefully bring a smile on people’s faces, on occasion be thought-provoking, and perhaps pique their interest in a theme they may not have thought about before. As before I encourage readers to contact me with ideas for the column. So, if you, dear reader, have any suggestions for a

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.

column, feel free to drop me a line to tdbtci@aol.com.

There’s lots to write about. On the international scene, the war in Ukraine has entered its second year (9th if you consider the 2014 invasion of Crimea). Although we in the Turks and Caicos Islands may consider ourselves blissfully detached from war zones, it will continue to be interesting to discern what impact the war and its effect on the world economy will have on us. Closer to home is the increasingly worrying situation in Haiti, which most analysts would define as a “failed state”. The effects of the collapse of the rule of law and a cohesive society can be witnessed by residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands on a regular basis as the influx of economic migrants continues to put a strain on our

archipelago’s resources. A new governor will assume office soon and it is the hope that she will continue to focus on this issue as unflinchingly as her predecessor. Time will tell.

On our own doorstep, there are several stories that I have drafted and that I look forward to publishing. Starting with Salt Cay, the “charmed isle”, which will have to decide how a development project can finally be realised to avoid a further exodus from the island. By all accounts, the last season wasn’t bad, but neither was it brilliant. And as the last tourists and the few remaining ‘winter residents’ head home, Salt Cay will soon slip back into a long slumber. Peaceful yes, some, including me, might even say blissful — but it’s not economically sustainable. Another story I am contemplating

will be in the form of an interview with a man whose dedication to the island, both personal and professional, many of us often took for granted – until he recently retired. The story of Salt Cay is ongoing and through this column, it will be ceaselessly told.

Just north of us, in the Nation’s capital, a story that has certainly grabbed my attention is that of a group of over 30 dedicated volunteers, comprising of Turks and Caicos Islanders, expats, government officials and members of the Grand Turk private sector who seek to finally bring proper care and shelter to Grand Turk’s donkey population. Theirs is a pro-active approach which, when implemented, could be a workable concept not just for Grand Turk and its donkeys but indeed the entire country and other animals in

need of protection.

Finally, it is Easter and I am back in Salt Cay after a prolonged stay in Grand Turk where I had relocated to just after Christmas. The move was necessitated by the ongoing challenges that come with trying to run a business in Salt Cay or in my case from Salt Cay. Aside from the comparative ease with which one can get things done, when not having to constantly worry about ferry schedules and “rough seas”, it was also a real joy to rediscover Grand Turk, renew friendships and see the island not just as a place where one spends a few rushed, irritating hours before returning to Salt Cay. But perhaps most importantly, it made me realise what it is I missed most about Salt Cay and what I didn’t.

In his novel, Islands in the Stream, Ernest Hemingway writes, “He thought that he would lie down and think about nothing. Sometimes he could do this. Sometimes he could think about the stars without wondering about them and the ocean without problems and the sunrise without what it would bring”. To me, this pretty much sums up my Salt Cay experience. It’s good to be back.

Titus pictured with Salt Cay native, Mr Holton Dickenson. (Photo: Elphina de Boer)

An early morning walk on Salt Cay, “thinking about the stars without wondering about them”. (Photo: Elphina de Boer)

Salt Cay. Joy of life, no crime, no traffic and lots of tranquility. (Photo: Titus de Boer)

IVES ADELAIDE OEMLER –

A pioneer of TCI’s education

BY HUMUTAL

Ms Ives Adelaide Oemler nee Handfield (affectionately known as Aunty Laide) was born in Bottle Creek, North Caicos on July 13th, 1921 to parents Samuel and Sarah Handfield. She enjoyed what can be described as a marvellous childhood with her other siblings

Irene, Samuel, Timothy and James and was well-loved by her family.

EARLY EDUCATION

Mrs Oemler received her early education under the tutelage of Mrs Albertha Seymour. She was desirous of a good education which was obvious from an early age. Her parents were supportive of her in pursuit of this quest despite the limited opportunities available at the time. Because of her positive attitude, her parents provided her with the opportunity to pursue external examinations which she successfully passed. Unfortunately, for such a brilliant young lady, there were limited opportunities to pursue further studies in the Turks and Caicos Islands. She, therefore, settled to teach a class at the Bottle Creek Primary School. This was the door that opened to a career spanning some 40 years.

TEACHING CAREER

During Mrs Oemler’s era, teaching was one of the few professional careers in North Caicos that a young person could pursue. For most young men, farming and fishing were the main options of the day. The only high school available at the time was in Grand Turk. A parent had to be of good financial standing to be able to sustain a child in Grand Turk. Very little assistance in this regard was provided for by the Government.

Mrs Oemler was assigned to teach at the Bottle Creek All- Age School in order to demonstrate her teaching ability. This was the key that unlocked her career opportunity. She was later transferred to the Conch Bar AllAge School (now Doris Robinson Primary School). She spent three years there following which she was transferred to the Bottle Creek All-Age School.

She enjoyed teaching making every class a memorable event. She made every effort to understand children and encouraged them to explore their world. This was her way of motivating and encouraging them to excel. She was not satisfied with her ability. As a result, she sought professional development courses in the TCI and the Bahamas to develop herself further. The more she was exposed, the more excited she became to share her newly found knowledge with her colleagues. Her goal was not only geared towards self-improvement but for the overall enhancement of the standard of education in the islands. She focussed her attention on the three most critical areas of the day, Reading, Writing and Arithmetic (regarded as the 3 Rs). While teaching, she provided the opportunity for her students to freely express themselves, be engaging and express their talents as she was desirous of them being able to develop their all-round abilities. Of course, discipline was the order of the day for her. She would have an occasion where she would take a class in the “Big Building” for what was referred to as ‘Mental Drills”. A former student recalled how she would give them mathematical problems verbally to solve. You had to be able to think quickly and on your feet. If you failed to give her the correct answer, you would receive a flogging. What many of the students probably didn’t realise was that this was preparing them for life - to be able to think on their feet.

In Bottle Creek, she served under the leadership of the late Raymond Gardiner. When he passed, she accepted the position as Head Teacher of the Bottle Creek AllAge School (now Adelaide Oemler Primary School, named in her honour). There were 350 students and six teachers. Her new position was not without challenges. These challenges are what motivated her even further. She assumed this position in 1967 until she retired in 1979.

While she served as Head Teacher, she was instrumental in establishing a School Feeding Programme to provide meals for children whose parents could not

afford it. Many of these children had to travel long distances early in the mornings in order to get to school with limited transportation – having to walk from Belmont, Laughland, Richmond and Major Hill. This was no easy task. She also encouraged the development of a sports programme at the school placing her students in various Houses including Gardiner, Oemler and Handfield –named after outstanding families on the island. This was done to encourage healthy sporting competitions among the students. She also introduced the uniform in 1967, light blue blouse and dark blue skirts for girls and light blue shirts and dark blue pants for the boys.

Mrs Omeler also established an evening class programme to support students who had learning difficulties. This was an expression of her desire for her students to become the type of citizens to support the growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Additionally, she encouraged an after-school programme for children who had already left school. During her era, children who were not able to attend high school had to leave school at 14 years. Her programme was extended to students up to the age of 18 years old. This was evident that she cared about the welfare of children.

Mrs Oemler was particularly concerned about the academic quality of her staff. She wanted to ensure that ongoing professional development was a critical element in their practice so that they could remain on the cutting edge of knowledge. As a result, she requested teachers from the United Kingdom to support this initiative. These Voluntary Services Overseas (VSOs) as they were referred to, were sent out by the United Kingdom Government to support the teaching and learning process in the Overseas Territories. As a result of this initiative, her school was able to prepare students to write the London Common Certificate (LCC) and the Jamaica Local Examinations (JLE).

These were commendable initiatives on her part as they assisted some of her students

to be gainfully employed and to matriculate into institutions overseas, particularly in Jamaica.

Mrs Oemler retired from the teaching profession in 1979 after 41 years of committed and dedicated service. She could proudly boast of four generations that she taught namely: Mary Smith-Forbes; Rosina Forbes; Lisa Handfield; Dural Handfield. Very few teachers can boast of being in the profession for that period of time and having such an accomplishment under their belts.

MARRIAGE LIFE

Mrs Oemler developed an intimate relationship with Herbert (Hobbie) Oemler which resulted in marriage. Although they did not have children of their own, they assisted their siblings with their children. She eventually assumed full responsibility for her nephew Samuel Eagle. Following the death of her brothers, she took full responsibility for their children. This was a clear demonstration that she was an affectionate, caring and loving woman. Because of this demonstration, many believed that these were her children. Her home was open to all. It was often like a public gathering. Children came by seeking assistance in doing their school work while others came to her for free consultation. Several of the children from Provo who came to school in North Caicos lived with her. Of note is the fact that the current Director of Education, Mr Edgar Howell and the current Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mrs Tamera (Howell) -Robinson, spent their final few months of high school living with her. She can be described as a tower of wisdom as she shared her knowledge gleaned from years of experience. She was

also a keen observer and a wise thinker, a jovial woman who loved deeply and gave stern and sound corrections.

CHURCH LIFE

Mrs Oemler was a faithful member of the Mount Lebanon Baptist Church in Bottle Creek. She and her husband later joined the Bottle Creek Assembly Faith where she remained until her death. She was also a devoted Christian. Contribution to Society

In addition to her long years of service in education, Mrs Oemler made significant contributions to the country. She was always concerned and passionate about the students from North Caicos having to attend high school in Grand Turk and South Caicos. She knew and understood the financial implications that this implied for parents along with the psychological worries that it brought. She was particularly concerned about the children whose parents were not fortunate enough to send them to high school but who had to seek employment as best they could after leaving Primary School.

As a result, she along with the late Hon. Charles Misick of Bottle Creek, the late Charles H. James (Head Teacher of the Charles Hubert James Primary in Kew), the late Loris Forbes of Whitby and the late Mrs Jessie Campbell from the Sandy Point Primary School, agitated for the establishment of a Secondary School on North Caicos. They solicited the support of the public through the signing of a petition. The support for this initiative was overwhelming. Mrs Oemler was also a member of the District Board of North Caicos (the governing body of the

Ives Adelaide Oemlier

HANDFIELD & CARLTON MILLS

Ives Adelaide Oemler...

day), the Scholarship Board, the President of the Women’s Federation of North Caicos and the Secretary of The Penny Savers Bank. She used her influence in these organizations to garner support for the idea of a Secondary School for North Caicos. One year later, the North Caicos Junior High School was established (September 1973) with Mrs Hope James-Hamilton as Principal and teachers Mrs Gwendolyn Williams and Susan Musgrove. Mrs Oemler served as overseer.

This was not an easy road. Mrs Oemler and the group were dedicated to their cause. They wanted to see the children of North Caicos have equal educational opportunities as those in Grand Turk and South Caicos.

Her hard work was not done in vain as today many of her students boast successful professions. Among these are pilots such as Clifford Gardiner, Lyndon Gardiner, Paul Gardiner, Ferrington Gardiner, Bennett Gardiner; teachers including

Yvette Handfield, Hope James Hamilton, Gwendolyn Gardiner Williams, Valverine Handfield(deceased); Lawyers such as Ashwood Forbes, Ariel Misick; entrepreneurs Galmo Williams, Maxwell Handfield, Llewlyn Handfield. Additionally, she produced Pastors such as Rev. Goldstone Williams, Caleb Williams, the late Bishop Arthur Gardiner, Beatrice Skippings, Lighton Jolly; Nurses Hildred Gray, Claudette Gardiner, Jackie Jolly; Captains Emmanuel Gardiner, Arthur Handfield, Calvin Handfield; Civil Engineers Warren Williams; construction pioneer Chuck Musgrove; musicians Simeon Williams, Washington Williams, Marvin Handfield and politicians including Lillian Boyce, Washington Misick, Michael Misick and Ralph Higgs. Mrs Oemler was a beacon of hope and an extraordinary pioneer in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Despite her retiring at the age of 70 years, she continued to teach evening classes for

Cost of breadbasket items remains ...

children in the neighbourhood. She later started a Pre-School until her health forced her to discontinue. Her Majesty The Queen also saw it fitting to recognize her by bestowing The Badge of Honour on her.

Final Journey

In January 1987, she fell and fractured her legs. She had numerous surgeries with the hope of correcting the problem. She was eventually forced to stay in using a walker to assist her in getting around in the house. In 2002, she lost the functions of her legs, which confined her to bed. In February 2008, she was hospitalised and in May of the same year, she suffered from a coma. She survived until January 28th, 2009 when she passed away.

Mrs Oemler can be described as a virtuous woman. Despite her ailing condition, she continued to smile and entertain people. She was a lady of character, high morals and standards. She will always remain an icon in education for the people of North Caicos.

consumers with the data (which is produced in the monthly report on Breadbasket items from the department of Trade) so they can be more aggressive with their spending.

“We cannot say with certainty that the retailers are passing it on. I think it’s best to say that we are allowing them to operate on the honour system with the expectation that they will pass it on.”

Saunders said the government does not have all the resources to do what it needs to do, a major challenge to delivering the projects they would like to.

In its latest report on breadbasket items, the department of trade, industry, and fair competition noted that in February, they launched a Compliance and Regulatory Enforcement (C.A.R.E.) Drive, which is focused on two activities.

One of those activities includes checks to see whether providers are compliant with their duties to consumers under the Consumer Protection Ordinance (CPO).

The Ordinance specifies that providers should give certain basic

information to consumers about goods and services being sold, inform consumers about terms and conditions before payment is made (such as warranties, refunds, returns, exchanges, etc.), as well as abstain from misleading and deceptive conduct, false representation and unfair business practices.

Another C.A.R.E activity is the monitoring of selected breadbasket items to dissuade price gouging, which is prohibited under the CPO.

The Department had stated at the time that they will monitor the prices of the 23 items in specific retail outlets across the TCI to assess how these prices compare with the prices of similar goods or services that are available to consumers in the TCI.

This monthly report has been produced but only for informational purposes, with no analysis offered of their findings.

No indication has been given by the department as to whether providers are compliant with their duties to consumers, an initiative they said they will be undertaking from February.

Get counted!

– Government officially launches 2023 Housing and Population census

Over 100 enumerators are gearing up to conduct the Turks and Caicos Islands decennial Housing and Population Census and residents are being urged to get counted.

This comes as the government officially launched the event, which was attended by government ministers, enumerators, and members of the private sector.

For the first time, in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the census will be conducted via computer-assisted personal interviews, through the use of laptops, and other handheld devices such as tablets and in some cases cell phones.

This is being done to eliminate the use of paper and simplify the data collection process of enumerators who will be tasked with visiting residents at their homes over the coming weeks.

Coupled with this, through the use of tablets, enumerators will be able to capture Geographic Information System (GIS) coordinates as part of the process, an additional component of data that was not possible with the traditional paper method.

Speaking at the launch, Governor (Ag) Her Excellency Anya Williams, explained that the National census is an important tool to assist the Government in its decision-making process in order to improve the quality of their lives.

She said: “It helps us to know to understand, to analyse, and to better plan in terms of our priorities.

“Here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we have experienced phenomenal population over the past decades, even in looking at the numbers for the last 10 years between 2012 and 2022 when the last estimated census was carried out, that was an over 30% growth in our population, that those numbers are extremely important to know because countries have to be able to better understand whether their populations are growing too fast, or whether they’re growing too slow.”

Williams stressed that the Turks and Caicos population is growing “extremely fast”, especially the

expatriate population.

She said: “But when we look at the really drill down to the detail of our population and we look at the demographics and the dynamics of our population, we will see that… our population is growing at an extremely slower rate as compared to our expatriate population.

“So that helps the government to be able to better plan its priorities to look at what investment is needed, is important to know the distribution of the population across the islands because Turks and Caicos Islands is made up of an archipelago of islands.”

The Acting Governor encouraged residents to cooperate with enumerators during the interviews, as she reminded that the information being collected is critical to the enhancement of lives and livelihoods.

She said: “I’m asking that the public be cooperative. They provide true and accurate information to census officials.

“This information is not being used to help random individuals or

for immigration or other purposes it is being done for us to be able to better understand and so we want to say from the outset that this is supposed to be a safe exercise and we want persons to participate.

“But then it helps us to be able to better plan our priorities for the government to be able to know where it needs to implement more programmes, where it needs additional resources and helps us to plan for the future of these islands.

Minister of Finance Investment and Trade, Hon Erwin Saunders underscored that the information collected from the census will help the government to proactively address a wide range of social problems affecting the population.

He said: “Our future starts here, get counted.

“The census will not just be about numbers; that will be a reflection of our society, and essential tool of our nation’s progress, and a snapshot of who we are as a people at this point in time.

“It will provide vital information about our population composition

and its needs, this data is crucial to our government’s policy decisions as it enables us to allocate the required resources as well as allow our government in making informed decisions on our citizens, our residents and our nation.

“As we embark on a significant statistical exercise, as Minister, responsible for the country’s statistics, I would like to point out why this is so important.

“A census, the census will not only tell us how many people are living in our country, it will also give us a vivid picture of our population in terms of age, sex, religion, education, occupation, and other significant characteristics.”

He informed that the Census will also help the Government to identify where people live and the conditions of their housing and access to essential amenities such as water, electricity and healthcare.

He added: “The census will allow the government to make well-informed decisions that will impact profoundly on the quality of life of the Turks and Caicos

Islands.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the data gathered is as accurate and comprehensive as possible by participating in the census you are playing a vital role and building a brighter future for our beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood stressed that it’s particularly crucial for the Turks and Caicos Islands to have relevant information on the demographics.

“I believe that the Census 2023 will give a comprehensive picture of our people and those who reside amongst their social and living conditions.

“I also believe that only a census can provide such complete details.

“But we should know that a census is not an end to itself, rather the results are essential for the effective policy planning and decision-making process.”

He continued: “The census is,

Governor (Ag) Her Excellency Anya Williams

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood

Permanent Secretary of Finance, Athenee Harvey-Basden

Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade Hon Erwin Saunders

Hon Otis Morris – Minister with responsibility for Postal Services and Mrs Elizabeth Garland-James – Postmaster General, Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services

A range of issues affecting the Postal Services regionally and internationally and concepts to address these challenges were recently discussed at the 18th Meeting of Caribbean Council of Ministers of Postal Affairs.

Minister of Home Affairs, Hon Otis Morris along with the Postmaster General, Mrs Elizabeth Garland-James, represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at these sessions held at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Miami, Florida from April 2-5, 2023.

The Council engaged in a series of talks on the challenges confronting the postal services with regard to the movement of postal items; United States and domestic shipping trends; the digital transformation of the postal services; the implementation of a regional plan and the presentation of a resolution on the regional strategy; and the implementation plan for postal and courier services.

The meeting was attended by Ministers of Postal Affairs, Postmasters, Directors of Postal Services, and Permanent Secretaries in the various Ministries dealing with Postal Affairs from 19 Caribbean countries, according to a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

In addition to delegations from the Caribbean, there were representatives from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Slovenia.

The Postmaster General, Mrs Elizabeth Garland-James, commented that she found the meeting to be very productive and informative and intends to implement some of the strategies and plans discussed into the operations of the Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services.

Hon Otis Morris stated, “I was very grateful for the opportunity to be amongst my fellow colleagues regionally and internationally, and listen to their issues compared

to ours faced in the TCI, and to be a part of the regional and international plans and strategies

Get counted ...

therefore, a fundamental part of our nation, our national heritage and collective knowledge at the national level and certainly it should be at all political levels.”

Astwood pointed out that the current population statistics should be essential in planning the provision of health care, education, employment, rental development, housing, and especially security.

MAMMOTH UNDERTAKING

Permanent Secretary of Finance, Athenee Harvey-Basden who also delivered remarks at the launch of the Census, emphasised that the mammoth undertaking was scheduled to commence in 2022, but was delayed due to a number of challenges.

She said: “However, the time

the CPU has to align all the postal services in the Caribbean so that all are afforded the same opportunities

to strengthen the postal services and build a stronger network for opportunities worldwide.”

CONTINUED

has now come for us to forge ahead.

“This will be the first national census in the history of the Turks and Caicos that goes green or almost entirely paperless, and place of paper, more than 100, enumerators will take tablets to perform the 2023 national census.”

She further explained that this will make the process even more effective as the information

collected will be immediately uploaded to cloud storage.

She added that: “The 2023 census will therefore make a positive impact on the environment in every way.

“The Department of Statistics will conduct the 2023 services, which will consist of the government of the Turks and Caicos will assist in the government of the Turks and Caicos developing and

enhancing social and economic policy that will address among other things, concerns, health care, education, unemployment, and sustainable development.”

Hon Mark Phillips – Prime Minister of Guyana and Minister of Postal Affairs, Hon Otis Morris and Mrs Elizabeth GarlandJames – Postmaster General

Hon JoBeth Lillian Coleby-Davis, Minister with responsibility for Postal Affairs, The Bahamas, Hon Otis Morris, Mrs Jennifer Johnson – Postmaster General, The Bahamas and Mrs Elizabeth Garland-James – Postmaster General.

Regional heads discuss challenges plaguing postal services

TCI gains critical waste management insights from Anguilla and St Martin

As the TCI Government works to remedy issues at problematic landfill sites, a delegation recently travelled to Anguilla and St Martin to gain greater insight on Waste Management and Health Services administration.

The learning and exchange visit spanned seven days from March 17-23, 2023.

The delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands consisted of the Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon Shaun Malcolm; Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Solid Waste Task Force Hon Kyle Knowles; Director of Health Policy and Planning, Mr Lynrod Brooks; Head of Secretariat, Mrs Marah Smith; Deputy Chief Environmental Health Officer (Ag), Ms Crivanne Adams, and Environmental Health Officer and CDB Integrated Solid Waste Management Project Coordinator, Ms Tiffany Murray.

According to a statement released, a number of topics were discussed during a series of meetings.

The Ministry of Health said some of the matters discussed were: “Anguilla’s Health Services Authority as part of the Ministry’s Health sector reform initiative.

“Waste management and enhanced monitoring techniques and methodology utilised as part of Landfill “Management in Anguilla and St Martin, and to share best practices which may be adopted locally.”

The Ministry stressed that the TCI is continuing its efforts to improve Landfill Management System through the Environmental Health Department.

“On reviewing current practices being implemented across the region, it was felt that having dialogue and site visits would provide an excellent opportunity

to share techniques, challenges and solutions which may assist all parties involved to develop sustainable strategies and policies which will positively influence waste management in a more efficient and effective manner”, the Ministry added.

HEALTH DIALOGUE

During the visit, the delegation also met with the Governor of Anguilla, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Premier and Minister of Health, Hon Dr Ellis L. Webster, Permanent Secretary Health (Ag) Ms Rochelle Rogers, and Chief Medical Officer, Dr Aisha Andrewin.

The Ministry revealed that this round of talks were centred on health sector reform, health financing, mental health, chronic non-communicable disease burden, and specialised treatment abroad.

Discussions were also held with the country’s Department of Health Protection, which comprises of both the Environmental Health and Water Laboratory Units, where they gained insight and knowledge of their operations which includes waste management and water quality management.

As part of the fact-finding mission, the delegation also visited the island’s landfill site where they were able to observe the day-today activities and the operational and management strategies implemented.

The delegation met with management personnel of the Health Authority of Anguilla, Mr Malcolm Webster, Chief Executive Officer (Ag), Dr Lishaw Ward, Director of Medical Services, Nurse Alecia Haywood, Director Nursing Services of the Health Authority of Anguilla. The Health Authority of Anguilla provides a range of medical services to the residents and visitors of Anguilla.

Topics discussed were the delivery of medical services, human resources, procurement, access to medical care, health insurance coverage and treatment abroad. The team conducted an insightful walk-through of the Poly Clinic, and the Princess Alexandra

Hospital facilities. These facilities included maternity, dental, medical laboratory, pharmacy, training room, rehabilitation room, new dialysis centre (under construction), emergency/waiting area and laboratory facilities.

The Ministry said: “The delegation visited neighbouring St. Martin (French side) where they met with Vincent Berton, President of Prefecture de Saint-Barthelemy de Saint-Martin, senior Ministerial

Delegation with Governor of Anguilla HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam (MOH photo)

Delegation with Hon Premier of Anguilla/Minister of Health and Ministry of Health Officials(MOH Photo)

Delegation with Health Authority of Anguilla Officials (MOH photo)

Delegation with St Martin Officials (MOH photo)

PAHO conducts vaccination training in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Healthcare professionals across the TCI were recently engaged in a two-day training seminar from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on its expanded program on immunisation (EPI).

The training, facilitated by the Ministry of Health and Human Services was conducted in Providenciales, on March 30 and 31.

The team which visited the TCI included the PAHO Sub-Regional Adviser on Immunization, Dr. Karen Broome-Troppin and Dr. Blair Woodside from the PAHO/ WHO office for the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands.

The week began with a courtesy call and introductory meetings with the Minister of Health, Deputy Permanent Secretary, and the Primary Health Care Manager, who also holds the responsible for the Expanded Programme on Immunisation.

The team visited clinics on the island of Providenciales for a brief EPI assessment. The visit concluded with a two-day training session with health care professionals from across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Commenting on the assessment and the training, Alrisa Gardiner, Primary Health Care Manager with responsibility for the national immunization programme stated: “The TCI is home to many visitors annually and a highly mobile population and because of this, we are at an increased risk of importation of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) that we have not seen for many years.”

She said as such, the visit by PAHO was truly beneficial to the TCI, not only because it provided the opportunity for the country’s programme to be assessed, but also for local professionals involved with immunisation, to benefit from training on existing and updated information.

“It served as a refresher for some, and for others, this would have been their first exposure to a training of this nature.

“It is my hope that this visit will awaken practices in us that have lain dormant so that together we can boost immunization coverage, mitigate VPDs and regain lost achievements for the TCI in this regard.”

Gardiner said she looks forward to more training opportunities of this nature in the TCI.

Dr. Karen Broome-Troppin in her comments said: “PAHO is committed to supporting countries in the Americas to strengthen their National Immunization Programmes. The visit to the Turks and Caicos is to support the sustainability of elimination of vaccine-preventable diseases such

as measles, rubella, and polio.”

Broome-Troppin said the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the reversal of gains made in childhood immunization in many countries leading to a population of children susceptible to diseases that were eliminated from the Caribbean Sub-region.

“The training of healthcare providers in the TCI on the expanded programme on immunization should reinforce the principles of immunization and vaccine disease surveillance leading to an improved performance of the National Immunization Programme and hence sustain the elimination of vaccine-preventable diseases on the islands,” the PAHO representative stated.

Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Shaun Malcolm, expressed his profound thanks and appreciation for such a timely visit and workshop.

He stated that the National Immunization Program is one of the programs within the Ministry of Health which garners much focus and reaffirmed his support to ensure the success of the program.

He also encouraged the Primary Health Care Manager to continue to advocate to parents and guardians, and all residents to have their children immunized in a timely manner.

Childhood vaccines are offered free of cost to all residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands at all government-operated clinics.

Vaccines are safe and effective, and parents and caretakers are encouraged to visit the clinic in their community to check their children’s vaccination status.

TCI gains critical waste management insights from ...

officials and the landfill site Director, Mr Maxime ARNAL.

“Waste disposal management issues and practices in St Martin were the main agenda items were discussed and a lot of interesting discoveries were made.

“The site visits to the St Martin Landfill operations provided an opportunity to observe the management practices, processes and recycling techniques such as dismantling cars, crushing of the metal, separating and crushing of glass, shredding of wood,

sewage treatment, and treatment of medical waste using a microwave for sterilisation.

“The introduction of pyro gasification as a means of converting the waste to energy was also discussed.”

The Ministry underscored that the landfill site visits provided a great opportunity to gain much-needed insight on the many methods available for effectively managing solid waste disposal which will enable the suitable adaptation of measures

to best address waste disposal challenges in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Health sector reform is critical to address financial challenges associated with the delivery of health care that is equitable and sustainable.”

Commenting on the visit, Minister of Health Hon Shaun Malcom said: “As Minister of Health I am proud to say the visits to these two islands was not only fruitful but an eye opener.”

PAHO Sub-Regional Adviser on Immunization, Dr Karen Broome-Troppin and Dr. Blair Woodside from the PAHO/WHO office for the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands with local healthcare workers during a training seminar in March (TCIG photo)

PAHO representatives with the Minister of Health and other health officials during a resent training exercise for healthcare workers (TCIG photo)

Cuba lifts ban on cash deposits in US dollars at banks

BANKS in Cuba will again accept cash deposits in US dollars after a ban prohibiting the practice was surprisingly lifted on Monday.

Cubans had been unable to deposit dollars in cash into their accounts at banks and other financial institutions for almost two years.

The Cuban government brought in the ban in 2021 citing “continuing difficulties caused by the ongoing US embargo”.

The move comes among the worst economic crisis to hit Cuba in decades.

Cubans are facing shortages of food, medicines and petrol which have led to long queues forming at shops and petrol stations.

The resolution by the Central Bank of Cuba (BCC) was published in Cuba’s Official Gazette on Monday and is effective

immediately.

It does not mention Cuba’s current economic problems but rather cites the recent increase in tourism and the “gradual recovery of the service industry and the productive sector” as the reasons behind the lifting of the ban.

The resolution also stated that the “economic pressure” from the United States, which it said led to the ban in the first place, remained in place and that therefore “the root of the problem” had not been solved.

Cuba has been under US sanctions for more than six decades but the economic restrictions placed on it were further tightened under the Trump Administration.

Under the sanctions, it became increasingly difficult for Cuba’s Central Bank to find international

Cubans had been unable to deposit dollars in cash into their accounts at banks and other financial institutions for almost two years

banks willing to receive dollars in cash from the Communist-run island.

While the Trump-era sanctions have so far remained in place under President Joe Biden, Cuban and US officials have been holding meetings to discuss another

matter affecting them both: the large number of Cubans trying to migrate to the US.

The two countries say they are keen to ensure “a safe, orderly, humane, and regular migration between Cuba and the United States” after a record 220,000

Cubans were caught irregularly crossing the US-Mexico border in the 2022 fiscal year.

Officials from the two countries are due to hold a “high-level meeting” in Washington on Wednesday to discuss migration. (BBC)

Little Cayman reefs on UK wish list for UNESCO Status

THE United Kingdom has added Little Cayman Marine Parks and Protected Areas to its list of sites it is nominating to be given UNESCO World Heritage Status. About once per decade, the UK publishes its Tentative List of the sites believed to have the best chance of achieving this prestigious global status and joining such notable landmarks as the Galapagos Islands. Little Cayman, which joins six other sites on the UK list, was put forward for its exceptional importance to marine biodiversity and incredible natural beauty.

Peter Hillenbrand, co-founder and board member of the Central Caribbean Marine Institute and secretary of the Little Cayman District of the National Trust, who spearheaded the bid, said he was over the moon with excitement that the island’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are officially on the list.

“This will undoubtedly lead to even greater awareness and protection for this amazing little island,” he said. “The Cayman Islands Government and our island citizens are proud and protective of this uncommon environment, and making this next step to having it recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is absolutely thrilling for all parties involved.”

There is significant local support

for the nomination and backing from Premier Wayne Panton, who recently told CNS that he endorsed the efforts by the private citizens who pushed for Little Cayman’s inclusion on the UK list. Britain will now work with those involved here to develop the bid.

Little Cayman’s marine environment is a unique geological and ecological phenomenon already recognised as a Mission Blue Hope Spot, and the UNESCO nomination will significantly help bolster its status.

A release from CCMI stated, “Most nations around the globe are struggling to meet the United

Nation’s target for 30% protection for precious marine ecosystems, yet Little Cayman has 75% marine park protection, thanks to a long-term commitment from the Cayman Islands Government and Cayman Islands Department of Environment. This protection and foresight have been the basis for this UNESCO application.”

Despite its outstanding natural beauty and environmental significance, the island remains at risk from inappropriate development. A recent proposal to develop a resort at Kingston Bight on Little Cayman stirred up significant controversy when

developers applied to build overwater bungalows in a protected Marine Reserve. Although an application for a coastal works licence was refused, the land element of the project was approved by the Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Development Control Board before being overturned following a successful appeal.

If the Marine Protected Areas were given UNESCO World Heritage Status, this would provide additional protection from this type of development as there are conditions that must be met after a site is ratified.

Once a site has been nominated and placed on a country’s list, it is independently evaluated by advisory bodies mandated by the World Heritage Convention.

Little Cayman will be assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which provides the World Heritage Committee with evaluations of natural sites.

Little Cayman’s reef ecosystem benefits from low human impact and increased protection. The Marine Protected Areas there have been proven to be successful as CCMI and the DoE have been monitoring the reefs there for years and will play an important part in the next step of the bid to become a UNESCO site by collecting

the necessary data and scientific information.

“Critical species, a key Nassau grouper spawning aggregation site, resilient coral reefs, a healthy abundance of apex predators and rebounding fish populations contribute to an area of outstanding natural beauty and value, to both the Cayman Islands and the UK,” the CCMI said. “Raising the profile of Little Cayman’s long-term commitment to MPAs as a case study on a world stage is a positive stance for how marine resources can be protected effectively.”

UNESCO sites are protected through a convention that sets out the duties of States Parties in identifying potential sites and their role in protecting and preserving them. By signing the Convention, each country pledges to conserve not only the World Heritage Sites situated on its territory but also to protect its national heritage.

“The States Parties are encouraged to integrate the protection of the cultural and natural heritage into regional planning programmes, set up staff and services at their sites, undertake scientific and technical conservation research and adopt measures which give this heritage a function in the day-to-day life of the community,” UNESCO states on its website.

Little Cayman marine life

BVI leaders square off in election debate

Political leaders on the British Virgin Islands laid out their development plans last evening for the territory as they participated in a historic leadership debate ahead of the April 24th General Election.

The debate was organised by the H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) Virgin Islands Studies Institute.

The Virgin Islands Party’s (VIP) Dr Natalio Wheatley, the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement’s (PVIM) Ronnie Skelton, the National Democratic Party’s (NDP) Marlon Penn, and Julian Fraser of Progressives United (PU) were pressed by moderator Ronn Grant on topics such as fiscal policy, social welfare, the commission of inquiry, independence and healthcare.

All of the leaders agreed that the British Virgin Islands was at a difficult juncture in its history as it deals with implementing governance reforms that were recommended in the Commission of Inquiry report and reconstruction from two devastating hurricanes.

In his opening statement, Fraser

said Virgin Islanders “can’t afford” to have the UK impose direct rule as locals have been doing the work necessary to reform the system, including the formation of a Unity Government.

And that’s why he said it is important for Virgin Islanders to elect a competent government on Election Day.

Penn stated the NDP is not against the BVI becoming an independent country but local institutions need to be strong before that step can be taken.

“We have to particularly look at our institutions and ensure that they’re fit for purpose,” Penn stated.

He continued: “We saw in the [Commission of Inquiry] where many of our institutions were challenged…in terms of the ones that are responsible for holding accountability, good governance, and making sure that persons in the political class, in other classes are held accountable and the good governance structures that are necessary.”

“As it pertains to self-

All of the leaders agreed that the British Virgin Islands was at a difficult juncture in its history

determination, we have to ensure, as I said earlier, to build those institutions, to make sure those institutions continue to be strong and robust as we move forward,” Penn said.

Wheatley committed to repealing the Retiring Allowances (Legislative Services) Amendment Act, 2021, which is known locally as the “greedy bill”. The bill

was criticized for giving hefty retirement benefits to former legislators.

“I will not collect a dime on that Retirement Act in its current form and I intend, God willing, [if] I’m given the opportunity, to repeal the entire bill,” Wheatley stated. Skelton stated his party wants to increase the minimum hourly wage from US$6 per hour as part of

efforts to reduce the BVI’s wealth inequality. He noted that many businesses aren’t paying their employees the minimum hourly rate.

“These people cannot live on $48 a day,” Skelton said whiling noting that a PVIM government will also look at placing limits on what businesses can charge for food items. (Loop Caribbean)

St Lucia monitoring increased incidence of dengue & Chikungunya cases

Health authorities here say they are monitoring alerts from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) regarding the increased incidence of dengue and Chikungunya cases in the Americas including the Caribbean.

They said that the number of dengue cases doubled last year compared with 2021 and that “the same increasing trends were noted with Chikungunya”.

Members of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force

Antigua deploys armed forces to Saint Lucia in fight against crime

Antigua and Barbuda has deployed armed forces to Saint Lucia as that island battles against its recent crime wave.

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force sent an eight-member continent on Saturday, April 8 to aid in the Regional Security System’s (RSS) operations in Saint Lucia.

The Defence Force said in a release that the deployment is strictly focused on providing support to the Royal Saint Lucia

Police Force in response to the recent upsurge in violence.

The eight-member team travelled via ABDF’s aircraft ALPHA1, while a seven-member team will deploy from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda via the RSS Airwing.

This is the second RSS deployment, rotating the first deployed contingent, and it is anticipated to last a total of three weeks. (Caribbeanloopnews)

In a statement, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs said although the majority of these cases have been reported in the South American countries, the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is the vector responsible for the transmission of these diseases, is present in St Lucia.

“Dengue cases continue to be recorded in St Lucia throughout the year, usually peaking between the months of June and November. Since the introduction of the Chikungunya virus in 2014, random cases have been recorded,” it said, noting that there have been no recorded cases of the Zika virus disease since the 2016 outbreak.

“Although there has not been a recorded increase in cases of dengue and Chikungunya, the Ministry of Health wishes to reassure the public that the prevention and control measures have been augmented,” it said, adding that both dengue and

The number of dengue cases doubled last year compared with 2021

Chikungunya are viral illnesses spread by the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito and, to a lesser extent, Aedes Albopictus.

“Both are endemic to St Lucia, meaning that there is continued local transmission which often peaks during and after rainy seasons. The current weather conditions are favourable to mosquito breeding and this means that cases are likely to increase even outside of the rainy season.”

the ministry said that the mosquito lives in urban surroundings and breeds mostly in man-made containers. It is a day-time feeder, with peak biting

periods in the early morning and in the evening before sunset.

The ministry said signs and symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain; with the latter being more frequent in chikungunya.

There is no specific treatment for dengue and Chikungunya and management is supportive based on clinical presentation,’ the ministry said, adding that testing for both diseases is available here and members of the population, who may be experiencing signs and symptoms to seek care at their nearest Wellness Centre. (CaribbeanLoopNews)

Trump sues former lawyer Michael Cohen for $500m

Ex-US President Donald Trump is suing his former lawyer for $500m (£400m), alleging breach of contract.

He says Michael Cohen breached his duty as attorney to act in his client’s best interests.

The lawsuit comes amid escalating attacks from Trump allies on Mr Cohen, who is a key witness in a New York investigation into the ex-president.

A Manhattan prosecutor last week charged Mr Trump with fraud in relation to hush-money payments to a porn star.

Mr Cohen’s spokesman and lawyer, Lanny Davis, told the BBC he was confident the lawsuit against his client would fail.

The legal action, filed in a Florida federal court, also accuses Mr Cohen of making “improper, self-

serving, and malicious statements about his former client, his family members, and his business”.

Mr Cohen worked as Mr Trump’s attorney for more than a decade.

He was also a vice-president at the Trump Organization and was often described as Mr Trump’s fixer.

But the two had a significant falling out after the 2016 election, as investigators began looking into several of Mr Trump’s aides.

In 2018, Mr Cohen was sentenced to three years in prison and a fine, after pleading guilty to charges of fraud and campaign finance violations.

Now out of prison, Mr Cohen has become a high-profile critic of Mr Trump and a frequent guest on news programmes.

He has written a book and hosts a podcast, both of which Mr Trump

cites in the lawsuit, which claims Mr Cohen fabricated conversations and wrongfully called Mr Trump a “racist” in his 2020 book Disloyal.

In a statement to the BBC, Mr Davis said: “Mr Trump appears once again to be using and abusing the judicial system as a form of harassment and intimidation against Michael Cohen.

“It appears he is terrified by his looming legal perils and is attempting to send a message to other potential witnesses who are co-operating with prosecutors against him.”

New York prosecutors have charged Mr Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, in what they say was an effort to cover up payments intended to keep former porn star Stormy Daniels, quiet about her

alleged affair with the ex-president.

On 4 April, Mr Trump appeared in Manhattan criminal court - the first former US president ever indicted on criminal charges. He pleaded not guilty.

Mr Cohen has admitted, while acting as Trump’s fixer, he facilitated a $130,000 (£104,000) pay-out to Ms Daniels.

As Mr Trump’s court date approached, Mr Cohen made numerous appearances on major network news programmes and criticised his former boss.

“He’s not thick-skinned,” Cohen told CNN, speaking after Mr Trump’s indictment. “He’s actually very thin-skinned, and he has a very fragile ego.”

Leaked Pentagon documents suggest Russian government infighting over Ukraine

A FRESH leak of classified US intelligence documents suggests broad infighting between Russian officials, including some within the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Defense Ministry, the New York Times reported Thursday.

CNN has not independently verified the documents. The NYT said it had shown the new 27-pages of documents to multiple US officials, who did not dispute the information but “could not, and would not, independently verify the documents.”

CNN has contacted the Pentagon for comment.

The US has said that the first set of documents released last week were authentic but has said that some of the documents were not legitimate and had been altered.

The NYT report says the documents, which it reports were posted on one of the Discord servers, show infighting between the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Defense Ministry over Russia’s casualty count for the war in Ukraine.

The new documents also indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin called Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to a meeting, believed to have taken place on February 22,

A litany of highly classified documents leaked online related to the Pentagon, pictured in Arlington, Virginia on April 6, 2023, has rattled US officials

to likely resolve a public dispute over ammunition supply, the NYT reports.

Prigozhin had accused Russia’s defense establishment of creating “major problems” with ammunition supplies for his troops.

He went as far as accusing the leadership of the Russian Defense Ministry of “treason” for failing to get ammunition to Wagner fighters

and “also not helping with air transport.”

On February 23, CNN reported Prigozhin said that a shipment of ammunition was now on its way to his fighters, in a message and voice note published on his Telegram channel.

The NYT report says the documents detail US monitoring of Russian intelligence and apparatus

and military command. The original batch of highly classified Pentagon documents leaked online in recent weeks and reported on by CNN also revealed the degree to which the US has penetrated the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Wagner Group, largely through intercepted communications and human sources, which could now be cut off or put in danger.

The Kremlin said it doubts the “reliability” of reports of broad infighting between Russian officials, in response to a CNN question about the NYT article.

“I don’t know what these reports [of infighting] are based on, but I’m doubting their reliability and the author’s understanding of the essence of what is happening inside Russia,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday.

The leaks on social media in recent weeks have flustered US officials, who fear the revelations about how Washington spies on allies and foes alike could put sensitive sources at risk, and compromise important foreign relationships.

Several of the documents, which US officials say are authentic, disclose the extent of US eavesdropping on key allies, including South Korea, Israel and Ukraine.

Others divulge significant weaknesses in Ukrainian weaponry, air defense, and battalion sizes and readiness at a critical point in the war, as Ukrainian forces prepare to launch a counteroffensive against the Russians – and just as the US and Ukraine have begun to develop a more mutually trusting relationship over intelligencesharing.

Donald Trump said that Michael Cohen breached his duty as attorney to act in his client’s best interests

World News

A united Ireland looks more likely thanks to Brexit, new study finds

MORE people in Northern Ireland now expect to join a united Ireland rather than stay in the UK, according to a major new survey of public opinion rattled by Brexit.

It’s the first time that results from the annual Life and Times Survey — published two months early to capitalise on President Joe Biden’s visit to the Ulster University campus in Belfast — has found a plurality of public expectations tilting toward Irish unity and away from continued political union with Britain.

The shift has been pronounced since post-Brexit trade rules went live two years ago. To the anger of unionists, the U.K.-EU treaty left Northern Ireland subject to EU rules for goods so that cross-border trade could continue uninterrupted with the Republic of Ireland, an EU member.

While the same survey in 2020 found most people expected to be in the U.K. in 20 years’ time, opinion on Northern Ireland’s constitutional future had tightened

to an even split a year later.

The latest finding, based on 1,405 people surveyed in late 2022, now finds that 45 per cent of people think Northern Ireland will no longer be in the UK 20 years from now. Only 38 per cent still think the union with Britain will remain. An even higher percentage – 63 percent, up 5 points from two years ago – thinks Brexit has made unification more likely in any time frame.

The shifting figures reflect both hopes and unease at the prospect, with unionists more determined than ever to oppose stronger ties with the republic at the expense of UK. membership.

It’s why the Democratic Unionist Party for the past year has blocked the formation of a new Northern Ireland government. Their policy of obstruction remains despite the UK-EU breakthrough agreement in February that will simplify and reduce – but not eliminate – EUrequired checks on British goods arriving at Northern Irish ports.

When asked what they personally

The latest finding finds that 45 per cent of people think Northern Ireland will no longer be in the UK 20 years from now.

want to happen, a plurality of those surveyed still favour continued U.K. membership – though the margin there continues to tighten, too, versus those seeking the creation of an all-island nation.

Were a referendum on uniting Ireland to happen tomorrow, 47 percent of respondents said they’d reject the proposition to stay British. That’s 6 points lower than two years ago. Those willing to vote now to erase that border has risen to a new high of 35 percent, up 5 points.

The Good Friday peace deal marking its 25th anniversary this week includes a key British government commitment to hold such a referendum if and when it appears majority opinion has

shifted in favour of Irish unity.

The attitude shift looks even sharper using a longer lens, because the same survey in 2015 — the year before the Brexit referendum that a 56 percent majority rejected in Northern Ireland — rated public support for Irish unity at a paltry 14 percent.

Thursday’s survey results contain other indicators that the unexpected trade outcome from the Brexit deal continues to nudge Northern Irish attitudes away from the union — not yet anywhere close to an Irish nationalist victory, but all moving in that direction.

Among key swing voters in any referendum — those who identify as neither British unionist nor Irish

nationalist — the proportion of those saying Brexit has made them favour Irish unity has risen 5 points to 43 percent in only the past year. And on the key question of identity, those who consider themselves British and unionist has slid to a new low, Irish nationalist to a new high in this decades-old survey, which is conducted jointly by Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast.

Thursday’s breakdown versus 2020 still has those identifying with neither sectarian camp on top with 38 per cent (down 4 points), while unionists have fallen to 31 per cent (also down 4) and nationalists have jumped to 26 percent (up 7). (Politico.eu)

Fear and confusion in Japan’s Hokkaido as North Korean missile triggers evacuation order

A North Korean missile sparked fear on the Japanese northern island of Hokkaido Thursday after the government’s emergency alert system warned residents to take cover.

Millions of people received a J-alert, or evacuation order, shortly before 8 a.m., urging them to seek shelter as the missile could land on or near the island.

But soon after, fear turned into anger and confusion as the evacuation order was lifted amid reports that it had been sent in error, with local officials saying there was no possibility of the missile hitting the island and Tokyo later confirming it had fallen outside Japanese territory, in waters off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula.

Many residents were critical of the decision to send the alert.

“What is the use of the J-Alert, which warns of a missile falling when you do not know where it will fall?” asked one Twitter user.

“In the end, it serves no purpose

other than to instill in the Japanese people the feeling that Japan is being targeted, and to scare them.”

Another Twitter user said that even had the alert been warranted there would have been too little time to find shelter.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno defended the government’s response at a press conference in Tokyo on Thursday, but admitted “We did not correct the information issued by the J-Alert.”

He said the alert was “appropriate” given the limited information available at the time and said the government had updated the alert once it was determined the missile would not fall near Hokkaido.

This is not the first time there have been issues with the J-Alerts. Last October, Japan apologized for the malfunctioning of the early warning system when residents in nine of Tokyo’s island towns and villages were mistakenly sent alerts. On that occasion, North Korea had fired a ballistic missile, but it did not pass over the communities who received the alerts.

The latest alarm came after North Korea fired what appeared to be a mid or longer range ballistic missile from an area near Pyongyang, at around 7:23 a.m. local time Thursday, according to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The White House said it “strongly condemns” the missile test. “This launch is a

brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region,” National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement.

“The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its destabilizing actions and instead choose diplomatic engagement. The United States will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and Republic of Korea and Japanese allies,” Watson added.

The South Korean military believes Pyongyang was testing a new ballistic missile, which it had showcased in a military parade, according to a military official. That missile could be solid-fuelled, a type of missile that can be launched more quickly and moved around more easily than the liquidfuelled long-range missiles North Korea has tested in the past.

A screen in a Tokyo office on Thursday morning shows a Japanese government statement warning citizens of the northernmost main island of Hokkaido to take immediate cover and stay inside buildings.

New fitness workout is launched in Provo

A high-tech fitness workout called Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) has been introduced by Focus Body at the Graceway Sports Centre.

The new exercise approach, presented last December at the complex, promises an effective full-body workout in just 20 with its ability to stimulate multiple muscles simultaneously.

“EMS workout is different from what you can achieve at the gym since various muscle groups are stimulated by electros at the same time- glutes, legs, chest, upper back, mid back, lower back,

biceps and triceps,” EMS fitness expert Nicoleta Adina Telford explained.

During the training session, special attire is worn, allowing the EMS cables from the German-built machine to deliver electric impulses to increase muscle stimulation as exercises are performed.

The machine allows greater muscle stimulus to all the areas it’s attached to, causing this form of training to be highly effective, compared to conventional gym methods which only works out one muscle at a time, said Telford.

Other than its time-saving advantage, EMS benefits include weight loss and fat reduction, muscle building, back pain relief, sports injury rehabilitation and, it’s easy on the joints.

The machine facilitates different programs like cardio or HITT, strength, body massage and sports injury rehabilitation.

All sessions are by appointment only and are conducted privately with instructions and supervision from the certified expert.

The personal trainer develops a unique training plan based on

individual goals, instructs and directs the exercises performed, and controls and monitors the machine as required; but the intensity of the workout is controlled based on ability.

EMS training has been around for many years and is safe to do once or twice a week, Telford said.

She also offers conventional personal training in between EMS sessions and helps clients with their diet plans to reach their personal fitness goals.

Focus Body is open at the Graceway Sports Centre Monday to Friday from 8am – 8pm and on Saturdays from 8am – 6pm.

ENTERTAINMENT

Harry Potter books to be made into new TV series

THE wizarding world of Harry Potter is to be brought to life in a new TV series starring a brand new cast. The series will be based on author JK Rowling’s books and will be produced over the course of a decade, with each season based on one of the seven books.

The Harry Potter books are

among the best-selling of all time, having sold more than 600 million copies worldwide.

The books have previously been turned into films, which starred Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter.

“The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic

detail, much loved characters and dramatic locations that Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years,” Warner Bros Discovery said in a press release. It said each season will be “authentic to the original books”, with Rowling named as an executive producer on the series.

million copies worldwide

EMS fitness expert trains client at Graceway Sports Centre studio

Focus Body’s EMS fitness expert Nicoleta Telford

The Harry Potter books are among the best-selling of all time, having sold more than 600

Prince Harry to attend King Charles’ coronation; Meghan Markle will not

PRINCE Harry plans to attend the coronation of his father, King Charles, in England next month, but wife Meghan Markle and their kids will not be there, Buckingham Palace announced Wednesday.

Harry and his representatives had been noncommittal about his attendance in recent months after the prince publicly detailed a strained relationship with his family.

“Buckingham Palace is pleased to confirm that the Duke of Sussex will attend the coronation service at Westminster Abbey on 6th May,” the palace said in a statement.

“The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.”

Harry and Meghan, who married

in 2018, stepped down from their senior royal duties in 2020 and moved to Southern California, where they are raising 3-year-old Archie and 1-year-old Lilibet. In an explosive 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Harry claimed his father stopped taking his calls at one point and said the royal family cut him off financially.

Harry, 38, also described issues with his family, including older brother Prince William, in a tellall memoir, “Spare,” that came out in January. That month, Harry expressed uncertainty over whether he’d attend the coronation.

“There’s a lot that can happen between now and then, but the door is always open,” Harry told ITV at the time. “The ball is in their court.

There’s a lot to be discussed, and I really hope that they are willing to sit down and talk about it.”

In March, representatives for Harry and Meghan confirmed the couple received a “correspondence” about the coronation but declined to disclose whether they planned to attend.

King Charles’ coronation comes seven months after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, at age 96. Her death ended her 70-year reign, the longest ever for a British monarch.

Earlier this week, Buckingham Palace shared plans for the coronation, including that Charles and Camilla, the queen consort, would ride in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach introduced in 2012 to

celebrate

Charles, 74, and Camilla, 75, will travel 1.3 miles from Buckingham Palace to the

Ariana Grande calls for fans to stop body shaming

SINGER Ariana Grande has called on fans to be “gentler and less comfortable” about remarking on her and other people’s bodies after recent scrutiny of her appearance on social media.

In a TikTok video, she said she had a body that is “paid such close attention to”, so “wanted to address” concerns.

It comes after some users commented on her apparent recent weight loss.

Grande said they were “comparing my current body” to “the unhealthiest version of my body”.

The 29-year-old US star explained: “I was on a lot of antidepressants and drinking on them and eating poorly and at the lowest point of my life when I looked the way you consider my healthy, but that in fact wasn’t my healthy.

“I know I shouldn’t have to

explain that, but I do feel like maybe having an openness and some sort of vulnerability here will [mean] something good might come from it. I don’t know but that’s the first thing. Healthy can look different.”

She continued: “The second thing is, you never know what someone is going through. Even if you are coming from a loving place and a caring place, that person probably is working on it or has a support system that they are working on it with.

“You never know. So be gentle with each other and with yourselves.”

‘MANY DIFFERENT KINDS OF BEAUTIFUL’

Grande, known for pop hits such as One Last Time and Thank U, Next, is also an actress and is set to star as Glinda Upland in the forthcoming Wicked film, based on the musical

of the same name.

Prince Harry and his wife Megan Markle

Queen Elizabeth’s 60year anniversary as monarch.

Westminster Abbey church. Their procession route is slightly shorter than the 1.6-mile path Elizabeth took to her coronation in 1953. (NYdailynews)

Ariana Grande was recently scrutinised for weight loss

MAINTENANCE WORKER

• Turks Head Inn Ltd is looking for two (2) Domestic Workers at Grand Turk, TCI area. Not limited to Cleans and sanitizes hotel and guest rooms.

Is seeking to employ a bathrooms, showers, toilets, sinks, and countertops.

• Vacuums and sweeps floors, carpets, and rugs.

• Makes beds and changes linens.

• Cleans and sanitizes

DOMESTIC WORKERS

• Replenishes toiletries and towels.

• Empties trash receptacles. Applicants who are TC Islanders should send copies of their applications to the Labour Board.

Salary: $8 per hour

SUBMIT RESUMES TO: TURKS HEAD INN @ EMAIL ADDRESS TURKSHEADINNE1830@GMAIL.COM

TURKS HEAD INN LTD GRAND TURK 35754

A SENIOR CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR

The successful applicant must possess:

• Minimum APM Level 4 / PMQ / Agile PM or similar.

• Five 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:

• Contract Administration

• Design Co-ordination

• Project & Portfolio Management

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.

GOVERNESS

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-7357

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 347-4501

CONTACT: 649-244-1260

To follow blue prints and building plans. To install structures and fixtures.

NUMBER 1 CHICKEN’S

CLEANER

To skills in cleaning kitchen counters, washing dishes and cleaning pots, mopping and sweeping floors and disposal of trash.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT:

BELONGERS CAN APPLY/RENEWAL

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning

GUARD

To take of my four children, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing the children, administering medicine, doing housework, and etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-0742

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

2 DOMESTIC WORKER

BELONGERS

CLEANER/ DOMESTIC WORKER

GRILL

DOMESTIC WORKER

All basic cleaning in and around the house including, mopping, sweeping, vacuuming, dusting. Washing and folding clothes.

CONTACT: (649) 343-8458

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

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 242-0193

Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

CONTACT: 241-0435

LABOURER

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

CONTACT: 345-2712

CONTACT: 341-4128

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

CONTACT: 231-5109

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $7.50 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-347-3983

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $350.00 Weekly

CONTACT: 331-5876

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-342-0726

Fix and maintain mechanical equipment, buildings, and machines. Plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-4813

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $7.00 Hourly

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

LOVELIE LUXAMA

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-1652

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 246-3290

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: 345-1036

ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when

CONTACT: 241-9746

HOUSEKEEPER

Able to work with little or no supervision, be physically fit, trustworthy and hard working. Must be self-motivated and able to comprehend, read, write and speak English fluently. Must be great with children of different ages. Rate: $300.00 per week.

CONTACT: 649-243-9999

Setting up workstations.

Preparing ingredients, chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 347-5225

THYROID CHRISTOPHER SMITH

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: 348-8109

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

To look after small child and elderly lady. $8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER MUSICIAN

To help setup stage, arrange and choose music, etc. $9.00 Hourly

2 TEACHERS

Creating lesson plans and teaching those plans to an entire class, individually, or in small groups; track students’ progress and present the information to parents; create tests; create and reinforce classroom rules.

Salary: $2,000 per month

CONTACT: 243-1358

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Cleaning

CONTACT: 241-7863

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO

Cleaning outside the property With

CONTACT: 649-245-5955

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

2 MASONS

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 342-7447

2 LABOURERS

changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.

Salary: $12.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-0002

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments. $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 348-1832

WOUILFRID

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: 345-4271

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

PROVO BEVERAGES

• Assisting with brewing and bottling and canning operations

• Keeping the facility and equipment clean and operational.

• Loading Delivery drivers trucks,

• Unloading containers and stocking warehouse with inventory

• Cleaning the yard, cleaning machines.

• Assist in delivering goods to customers.

To work 6 days per week, Salary $8.00 per hour

EMAIL: INFO@TURKSHEADBEER.COM / TEL: 946-4561

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL

GENERAL DUTIES:

• Cleaning and maintenance of the environment as well as equipment used inside/outside of warehouse facility.

• Manual & mechanical movement of dry and chilled cargo from containers to/from warehouse/customers.

INTERESTED PERSONS MAY CONTACT CARGO EXPRESS SERVICES, IN PERSON, AT 70 SOUTH DOCK ROAD OR EMAIL APPLICATION TO BKERR@TROPICAL.COM

APPLICATION DEADLINE: APRIL 14, 2023

*POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY

Five Cays, South Dock Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island. Contact No: 1649-9462811

Is looking for:

GROCERY STOCK CLERKS

• Stock the shelves with product and fill it back up when it sells

• Keep the store looking good throughout the day doing what’s called “facing” or “fronting”

• Provide the bulk of the customer service outside of the check stands.

• Direct people to products and offer product suggestions and maybe even cooking tips

• Refill shelves and displays with goods.

• Assist with unloading delivery trucks and organizing stockrooms.

STORE CLERKS

• Handles the checkout process for customers.

• Handle money, answer customer questions, bag items or oversee selfcheckout areas.

MEAT ROOM HELPERS

• Work in the meat section of grocery stores.

• Cut and prepare meat and poultry for customers.

• Take special orders, make product recommendations and provide customer service.

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERKS

• Works on receiving the delivery trucks and sending the products to the departments to be stocked.

INVENTORY CONTROL SPECIALIST

• Handles the grocery store's inventory management.

• Track and maintain inventory and adjust orders based on demand and quality.

• Work closely with loss prevention specialists to develop procedures to prevent loss.

CUSTODIAN

• Maintain the overall appearance and cleanliness of the grocery store.

• Cleaning bathrooms, sweeping and mopping floors and cleaning up spills in the store.

• Assist with larger cleaning projects, such as washing windows or waxing floors.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

• Handles a variety of customer inquiries.

• Improve a customer's experience.

• Complete transactions, process returns, issue rain checks and answer any questions a customer has.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Able to lift 50 pounds

• In an 8-hour workday: stand or walk between 6-8 hours

• The ability to work in a wet and/or cold environment

• Flexible schedule including working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed

• The ability to use tools and equipment, such as box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other machinery

• A positive attitude

• Show up on time

• Only call out sick on very rare occasions when you are really sick

• Being flexible on what days and hours you can work

• The willingness to do any job that is needed even if it’s not “technically” part of your job description

CASABLANCA CASINO

BLACKJACK DEALERS/ DICE DEALERS LABOURER

All candidates should have at least 2-3 years’ experience in the same field, excellent full knowledge of all casino table games and excellent knowledge of Blackjack table game and/or dice game. Job summary: carry out specific tasks in the gaming operation to the highest standard efficiency and customer service in accordance with gaming policies and procedures laid down by the company and gaming laws.

Salary $9.00 - $16.00 / hour

Must have several years kitchen helper experience, stock refill, cleaning experience of the full casino with knowledge of covid requirements and be physically fit. Also provide routine building cleaning and maintenance including painting, sanding and lifting and moving heavy equipment.

Salary $8-$9 / hour

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.

PLEASE DROP OFF CV’S ADDRESSED TO HR, AT THE CASABLANCA CASINO LOCATED ON 226 GRACE BAY ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES. OR EMAIL AT INFO@CASABLANCA.TC. TEL: 941-3737 POSITIONS PRESENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS.

HAIRDRESSER

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving. Salary: $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 345-4777

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION

CONTACT: 341-4128

DOMESTIC WORKER

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools,

CONTACT: 231-3892

CONTACT: 247-2082

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 344-4360

DOMESTIC

Cleaning house and washing clothes.

Rate: $8.00 per hr.

CONTACT: (649) 947-0561

TRADESMAN

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

Salary: $7.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-3230

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Responsible for purchasing products, materials, and services. Duties include assessing the market, ordering new products, and keeping accurate records. $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 331-4416

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Applicant must be honest, reliable and willing to work. Cleaning of surroundings, yard and trimming of all trees on my property and disposing of all debris.

Salary: $7.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 242-1304

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Inspecting and testing vehicles, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters. Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-242-4415

THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 1-649-346-7174

Build

install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form structures. Cut, position, and bolt down steel bars. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 244-2926

Pick up waste, clean and maintain the cleanness of the premises. $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: (649) 232-5733

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $7.50 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-4497

To install, maintain and troubleshoot our hardware and software systems. The ideal candidate should be a certified CompTIA Network+ Salary is negotiable but commiserate with years of experience.

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

CONTACT: 341-7471

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

Responsible for the safe operation of vessel and ensure that it is operated according to both company and legal guidelines.

CONTACT: 333-2626

DOMESTIC WORKER

LIVE IN HOUSEKEEPER

Basic manicures, artificial nails,

CONTACT: 232-3038

Set up temporary structures, passing of tools to the workers, cleaning construction sites and obtaining a safe work environment.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 344-1567

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Applicants must be honest, reliable and willing to work. AC works on all jobs.

Salary: $9.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-7261

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-8110

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-3338

CLEANER

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

TILER

BARTENDER

• Uphold customer service

• Maintain

Salary:

CONTACT: 231-2397

JEWELRY REPAIRER

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

Hourly

CONTACT: 341-6254

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

• 10 years knowledge of Artisan style pizza making.

• Knowledge of short and long rising dough’s.

• Experience with a high temperature refractory ovens.

•

INVENTORY STOCK HOLDER

The candidate will manage the warehouse inventory, repair blenders, deliver product, invoice customers. Must have small appliance repair experience, be able to lift 50 lbs, invoice using Quickbooks, have valid drivers’ license, good customer service skills.

Salary: $10/hour

CONTACT: 344-1220

General housework. Washing, ironing, cooking and cleaning. Applicant must be honest and willing to work. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER

Neptune Plaza, Providenciales TCI

IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

Nursing Assistant

REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES

• Certificate/equivalent in NA

• Minimum of 5 years work experience in a fast-paced Urgent Care practice

• Knowledgeable in setting up for procedures, able to assist doctors with procedures and examination

• Must be able to work as part of the Nursing Team with little or no supervision to ensure proper flow of patients

• Computer knowledge, answering telephone, scheduling appointments, action patients results,

• Experience in patient care in home and in a clinical situation

• Must have experience in sterilization procedures

Monthly salary $2400.00 - $3500 depending on experience. Belongers only need to apply. The position is currently held by a work permit holder

EMAIL: CYNTHIA@GRACEBAYMEDICAL.COM

PHONE: 649-941-5252

Spanish Speaking Physician

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• GP must speak and write Spanish, English

• Must have a medical degree from an accredited University

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Primary Health Care, minimum of 3 years at a Secondary Health Care institution

• Minimum of 5 years as a fully registered Medical Practitioner on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

MAIN DUTIES

• Patient consultations, examinations, minor surgery

• Diagnosis and treatment of illness/ailments

• Manage acute and chronic illnesses

• Order laboratory, diagnostic tests

• Health education

• Liaise with other healthcare professionals and hospitals

• Computer knowledge

Monthly salary $8000.00. Belongers only need to apply. Position currently held by work permit holder

EMAIL: CYNTHIA@GRACEBAYMEDICAL.COM

PHONE 649-941-5252. FAX 649-946-8243

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

UNIQUE TOURS & RENTAL

We are looking for a Barn Manager to join our team, candidates must be comfortable working with both large and small animals. Knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with colic, laminitis, and other equine related issues. Position involves daily turn in/out, feeding, steaming hay, mucking, and maintaining 30+ horses barn property. $3000 a month

BARN MANAGER RIDING TEACHER

EQUINE TOUR SPECIALIST

Equine Tour Specialist is responsible for organising and preparing all tours. Must follow trends in the popularity of tours and packages, and adjust company plans accordingly based on Horses needs and health related issues. 5 years of experience and Skills in other languages would be a big advantage in this role. $2000 a month

The Riding Teacher must provide engaging and safe programming with horses to all riding levels. The main objective of the horse program is to teach Locals to ride and to understand basic horse care/Horsemanship. Riding Teacher will prepare students for international and national competitions. $2500 a month

CONTACT: 441-8687

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWALS

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICS

CLARA LIGHTBOURNE

June Hill, Blue Hills, 332-1236

DOMESTIC WORKER

$6.50 hourly

Cleaning the house, wash, iron, cook and caring for my 5 years old.

HANDY GUY CONSTRUCTION

345-0174 North Caicos

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

Laying up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, layout tools, pouring of concrete foundation

PATRICK HARVEY Blue Hills

247-0097

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

To assist me with ongoing construction on the property

BABYSITTER

$ 8.00 hourly

Caring for my 5 years old daughter bath and fees her, monitor her and care for her, light housekeeping in my home.

SERGE BERNADIN

346-4413

Millennium Highway

DOMESTIC WORKER

$390.00 hourly

cleaning the house, washing dishes, clothes, linen and caring for my children.

35923

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00 Hourly

Cleaning the House, wash, iron and cook

7 IM 331-7188

MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY HANDYMAN

$8.00 hourly

Unload containers and maintain the repair of appliance inside the store

ALEX HENRIQUEZ

346-2627

72 June Hills, Millennium Highway

J & J BEAUTY SALON

343-6068

Five Cays Behind Paradise Baptiste Church

HAIR BRAIDER

$400.00 weekly

Braiding men and women hair, styling all type of hair, braids children hair

COX AND GABRIELLE VESSEL

331-5918

89 Five Cays RD

FISHER MAN

$8.00 hourly

Catching fish and other seafood and repair boat when needed

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

BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS, Is seeking to employ the following

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

Salary: $6.50 Hourly

Paris-Roubaix: Mathieu van der Poel wins Monument one-day classic

Mathieu van der Poel powered his way to victory to claim his first win in the

gruelling Paris-Roubaix race on Sunday. The Dutchman was part

of a seven-rider leading group that seized control with 50km of the 257km race

PELICAN BAY RESTAURANT & BAR

FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

• Successful applicant should have at least 8 years of kitchen and restaurant experience including

• Knowledge of food costing and controls, monthly inventory,

• Knowledge of food hygiene and safety, menu planning, managing and scheduling staff,

• Plus the knowledge and experience of worldwide pastries, desserts and

chocolates

• Responsible for the selection of wines as costing and menu print

• Use of micros POS system, Applicant should be able to both operate and program the POS.

THIS POSITION ABOVE REQUIRES WORKING LONG HOUR’S NIGHTS AND DAYS PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS

SALARY RANGE BASED ON EXPERIENCE THIS IS A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON JOB DESCRIPTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT INFO@PELICANBAYTCI.COM OR 431-1689

PLEASE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT, BRING ALONG YOUR RESUME AND RESIDENT STATUS

GRACE BAY CAR RENTAL

#1216 Leeward Highway, Providenciales

TRAINING MANAGER

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Identify and asses the training needs of the organization through job analysis, career paths and consultation with managers.

• Develop individualized and group training programs that address specific business needs.

• Develop training manuals that target tangible results.

• Implement effective and purposeful training methods.

• Effectively manage the training budget.

• Evaluate organizational performance to ensure the training meets business needs and improves performance.

• Assess employees’ skills, performance, and productivity to identify areas of improvement.

• Drive brand values and philosophy through all training and development activities.

• Effectively communicate with team members, trainers, and management.

• Create a curriculum to facilitate strategic training based on the

organization’s goals.

• Keep abreast of training trends, developments, and best practices.

TRAINING MANAGER REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field (essential).

• Master’s degree in education administration.

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in training and development management (essential).

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Superb track record in developing and executing successful training programs.

• Critical thinker with innovative problem-solving skills.

• Highly computer literate with proficiency in MS Office and related business and communication tools.

CERTIFICATES

• Situational Leadership-Building Leaders.

• Leading leadership Development.

Salary: $2,550.00 Monthly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD CONTACT: 649-441-8515 EMAIL: FRANTZ@GRACEBAYCARRENTALS.COM

remaining before making a 15km solo attack.

Known as ‘hell of the north’, Paris-Roubaix is one of the five Monument oneday races and Van der Poel has now won three of them.

“I had one of my best days on the bike,” said the 28-year-old.

The Alpecin-Deceuninck rider won this year’s MilanSan Remo race in dominant fashion and has won the Tour of Flanders in 2020 and 2022.

Van der Poel, who also won the Cyclo-cross World Championship for the fifth

Paris-Roubaix is the third of the five Monument one-day races that Mathieu van der Poel has won

time in February, launched an attack on the cobbled Carrefour de l’Arbre section after John Degenkolb, of Germany, crashed heavily. His main rival, Wout van

Aert, went with him and it was shaping up to be a repeat of their thrilling duel in February when Van der Poel outsprinted Van Aert to regain the cyclo-cross title.

A SENIOR CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR

A Senior Contract Administrator

The successful applicant must possess

• Honours Degree in Contract Administration / Project Management.

• Five 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:

• Contract Administration

• Design Co-ordination

• Project & Portfolio Management

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 new position is available immediately and closing date for application is 14th April 2023.

The successful applicant must possess:

• Honors Degree in Quantity Surveying 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 14th April 2023.

International

Masters 2023: Jon Rahm’s Augusta victory one of best in history of majors

Inspired by his country’s golfing heritage, equipped with power, touch and feel, Spain’s Jon Rahm, the new Masters champion, seems the complete package.

At 28 the burly Basque is halfway to a career Grand Slam and has already achieved arguably the toughest combination of major achievements. He has become the first European to secure victories in both the US Open and at Augusta.

“If there’s anything better than accomplishing something like this, it is making history,” Rahm said. “To be the first European ever to do that is hard to explain.

“Out of all the accomplishments and the many great players that have come before me, to be the first to do something like that, it’s a very humbling feeling.”

Rahm made his major breakthrough two years ago when he thrillingly won America’s national championship by holing a spectacular curling putt across the 18th green at Torrey Pines.

“It is a pretty good duo of majors,” he reflected sitting wearing his new Green Jacket. “The US Open is about as hard a test as you’re Mo Farah finished seventh in 30 minutes and 41 seconds in the Port-Gentil 10km in Gabon, 15 days before the London Marathon.

Four-time Olympic champion Farah, 40, has been training in Ethiopia in preparation for the marathon on 23 April.

He announced in January that he expects 2023 to be his final year of racing before retirement.

Kenya’s Vincent Kipkemoi won in Gabon in

ever going to find.”

His celebration then, violently punching the air, was full of competitive passion.

Rahm’s emotions at Augusta on Sunday were equally emotional because he knew that his glorious victory coincided with the 66th anniversary of the birth of the great Severiano Ballesteros.

It was Seve who inspired another two-times winner of the Masters, Jose Maria Olazabal. Then came Sergio Garcia and now Spain has Rahm, who might just turn out to be the best of the lot

of them.

It is easy to get carried away with one result when the quality of performance is so high. We can read too much into one week, but we should not ignore what the Masters champion is achieving at the moment.

Like last year’s winner Scottie Scheffler - the man he has deposed from the top of the world rankings - Rahm’s Green Jacket represents a fourth win of the year.

When he is on song he is unbeatable. Europe already know the identity of their talisman and lead personality for September’s Ryder Cup

against the United States in Rome.

Last week Rahm gave the field a head start by four putting to double bogey his very first hole. He was on the wrong side of the draw in horrible wet and windy conditions and had to hunt down a rejuvenated golfing assassin in four-times major champion Brooks Koepka. It was one of the great major performances. Rahm won by four strokes, remaining composed as cheers echoed from all parts of the Augusta National on a classic final day.

He hit fairway after

fairway until, as he said, finishing with a “Seve style” par at the last after tangling with the trees. He already had one arm in the jacket by that time.

And now we allow ourselves to wonder what comes next. Already we are entitled to consider a career Grand Slam, with the US PGA Championship and The Open the two missing from his resume.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Rahm warned. “I mean, it would be amazing. It would be great. Not many people have been able to do it, and to be able to finish it out and close out and do a Grand Slam would be absolutely amazing.

“I would like to say that I entered the race when I won the US Open, but of course, you’re so far away, you don’t want to think about it. But as players, it’s on your mind.

“It’s something else that would be amazing. But it’s a long road ahead to be able to accomplish that. Something that two players like Phil [Mickelson] and Arnie [Arnold Palmer] weren’t able to do, it speaks a lot.”

It was a vintage Masters, marred only by the appalling pace of play of those in front of the final pair, who play with commendable urgency.

Patrick Cantlay’s nickname Patty Ice should be changed to ‘Glacial’.

Rahm will be favourite for the next major, the PGA at Oak Hill in May, a course in chilly upstate New York that should fit his eye.

It is not an outlandish thought that he could become the first since Jordan Spieth in 2015 to win the first two majors of the year.

And while we are at it, the US Open is in Los Angeles and Rahm loves California tournaments. Getting ahead of ourselves - guilty as charged.

But Rahm’s sustained excellence this year is compelling. At Augusta he hit 86% of fairways, 72% of greens in regulation and dominated the field from tee to green in all weathers.

He overhauled Koepka who flew the flag for the LIV Tour with a brilliant opening 36 holes in which he hit 29 greens in regulation. The American exuded a quiet, almost menacing confidence but wilted on the longest of Sundays. Nevertheless his performance and that of the veteran Mickelson along with Patrick Reed, who tied for fourth place, helped give LIV three of the top six finishing spots.

28 minutes and 11 seconds.

Farah missed the 2022 London Marathon with a hip injury and this year’s event will be his first full marathon since 2019.

It is expected to be the Briton’s final London Marathon appearance and he will be up against four of the five fastest marathon runners in history, including Kenya’s Kenenisa Bekele.

The 2023 London Marathon will be broadcast live on BBC TV, iPlayer and online. (BBC)

Spain’s Jon Rahm is the new Masters champion

Mo Farah won the Big Half - a half-marathon event in London - in September 2022

Sports International

Charleston Open: Jabeur beats Bencic to claim her first title of season

WORLD number five Ons Jabeur claimed her first title of the season with victory over Belinda Bencic at the Charleston Open.

Tunisia’s Jabeur, runner-up at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2022, beat the Swiss 7-6 (8-6) 6-4.

British Cycling: Jon Dutton appointed as chief executive

British Cycling has appointed Jon Dutton as its new chief executive.

Dutton, who will start the role later in April, recently concluded his tenure as chief executive of the 2022 Rugby League World Cup in England.

He replaces Danielle Every, who has been acting chief executive since Brian Facer left the governing body in October after a series of controversies.

Dutton said it was a “privilege” to take on the role.

“I am very grateful to the

British Cycling Board for putting their faith in me, and while the current landscape for all sports is challenging, there are also boundless opportunities for growth,” he said.

“Over the short term I look forward to meeting many of the people that contribute to ensuring that British Cycling continues to nurture talent, positively impact communities, and harness the success of our country’s best riders to grow the sport at every level.”

Defending champion Bencic played two matches on Sunday, completing a rain-interrupted semi-final against Jessica Pegula before facing Jabeur.

It is Jabeur’s fourth WTA title and second on clay.

Jabeur has had a difficult start to the season and struggled with injury following her second-round Australian Open exit in January. However, she fought back from a break down in the first set against Bencic before holding her nerve in the second to secure the title.

She has now won 37 clay-court matches since the start of the 2020 season - the most of any player on the WTA Tour during that time.

Elsewhere, world number five Casper Ruud beat Miomir Kecmanovic to win the Estoril Open

Ons Jabeur finished runner-up at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2022

and claim his first title of the year.

The world number five won five straight games in the first set before Serb Kecmanovic, ranked 40th in the world, took Ruud to a tie-break in the second.

But the 24-year-old Norwegian held on to win 6-1 7-6 (7-3) in Portugal and halt his poor start to

JOB DESCRIPTION

the year.

Before this week, last year’s French Open and US Open runnerup had won just five of his 11 games in 2023.

However, Ruud’s 10th career title will be enough to push him back up to fourth in the ATP rankings on Monday. (BBC)

PROJECT MANAGER

Plan and supervise a wide range of construction projects from start to finish, experience in managing large scale vertical construction projects is necessary. You will organize and oversee construction the construction team procedures and ensure they are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with engineers, architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project.

• Negotiate contracts with external vendors to reach profitable agreements.

• Determine needed resources (manpower, equipment, and materials) from start to finish with attention to budgetary limitations.

• Plan all construction operations and schedule intermediate phases to ensure deadlines will be met.

• Acquire equipment and material and monitor stocks to timely handle inadequacies.

• Hire contractors and other staff and allocate responsibilities.

• Supervise the work of all construction team members and give guidance when needed.

• Evaluate progress and prepare detailed progress reports.

• Ensure adherence to all health and safety standards and report

issues.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as construction project manager, minimum 10 years’ experience managing projects greater then USD $15 MIL.

• In-depth understanding of construction procedures and material and project management principles

• Familiarity with quality and health and safety standards

• Good knowledge of MS Office, MS Projects

• Familiarity with construction/ project management software Procore and Blue Beam

• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills

• A team player with leadership abilities

Salary: $2000/weekly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO LABOUR BOARD

Jon Dutton is a British Cycling member and has been a fan of the sport for more than four decades

Science & Technology

Ghana first to approve ‘world-changer’ malaria vaccine

Ghana is the first country to approve a new malaria vaccine that has been described as a “worldchanger” by the scientists who developed it.

The vaccine - called R21appears to be hugely effective, in stark contrast to previous ventures in the same field.

Ghana’s drug regulators have assessed the final trial data on the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness, which is not yet public, and have decided to use it.

The World Health Organization is also considering approving the vaccine.

Malaria kills about 620,000 people each year, most of them young children.

It has been a massive, centurylong, scientific undertaking to

develop a vaccine that protects the body from the malaria parasite.

Trial data from preliminary studies in Burkina Faso showed the R21 vaccine was up to 80% effective when given as three initial doses, and a booster a year later.

But widespread use of the vaccine hinges on the results of a larger trial involving nearly 5,000 children.

These had been expected to take place at the end of last year, but have still not been formally published. However, they have been shared with some government bodies in Africa, and scientists.

I have not seen the final data, but have been told it shows a similar picture to the earlier studies.

Ghana’s Food and Drugs

The vaccine - called R21 - appears to be hugely effective, in stark contrast to previous ventures in the same field

Authority, which has seen the data, has approved the vaccine’s use in children aged between five months to three years old.

Other African countries are also studying the data, as is the World Health Organization.

Prof Adrian Hill, director of the Jenner Institute at the University of Oxford, where the vaccine was invented, says African countries are declaring: “we’ll decide”, after being left behind in the rollout

of Covid-19 vaccines during the pandemic.

He told me: “We expect R21 to make a major impact on malaria mortality in children in the coming years, and in the longer term [it] will contribute to overall final goal of malaria eradication and elimination.”

The Serum Institute of India is preparing to produce between 100200 million doses per year, with a vaccine factory being constructed

in Accra, Ghana. Each dose of R21 is expected to cost a couple of dollars.

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute, said: “Developing a vaccine to greatly impact this huge disease burden has been extraordinarily difficult.”

He added that Ghana, as the first country to approve the vaccine, represents a “significant milestone in our efforts to combat malaria around the world”. (BBC)

People who think positively about aging are more likely to recover memory

A Yale School of Public Health study has found that older persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a common type of memory loss, were 30% more likely to regain normal cognition if they had taken in positive beliefs about aging from their culture, compared to those who had taken in negative beliefs.

Researchers also found that these positive beliefs also enabled participants to recover their cognition up to two years earlier than those with negative age beliefs. This cognitive recovery advantage was found regardless of baseline MCI severity.

“Most people assume there is no recovery from MCI, but in fact half of those who have it do recover. Little is known about why some recover while others don’t. That’s why we looked at positive age beliefs, to see if they would help provide an answer,” said Becca Levy, professor of public health and of psychology and lead author of the study.

Levy predicted that positive age beliefs could play an important role in cognitive recovery because her previous experimental studies with older persons found that positive age beliefs reduced the stress caused by cognitive challenges, increased self-confidence about cognition, and improved cognitive performance.

The new study is the first to find evidence that a culture-based factor — positive age beliefs — contributes to MCI recovery. The study appeared in JAMA Network Open. Martin Slade, a biostatistician and lecturer in internal medicine at Yale, is coauthor of the study.

Older persons in the positive age-belief group who started the study with normal cognition were less likely to develop MCI over the next 12 years than those in the negative age-belief group, regardless of their baseline age and physical health.

The National Institute on Aging funded this study. It had 1,716

participants aged 65 and above who were drawn from the Health and Retirement Study, a national longitudinal study.

“Our previous research has demonstrated that age beliefs can be modified; therefore, age-belief interventions at the individual and

societal levels could increase the number of people who experience cognitive recovery,” Levy said. (Neurosciencenews.com)

Older persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), were 30% more likely to regain normal cognition if they had taken in positive beliefs about aging

Science & Technology

Study reveals cancer’s ‘infinite’ ability to evolve

An unprecedented analysis of how cancers grow has revealed an “almost infinite” ability of tumours to evolve and survive, say scientists.

The results of tracking lung cancers for nine years left the research team “surprised” and “in awe” at the formidable force they were up against.

They have concluded we need more focus on prevention, with a “universal” cure unlikely any time soon.

Cancer Research UK said early detection of cancer was vitally important.

The study - entitled TracerXprovides the most in-depth analysis of how cancers evolve and what causes them to spread.

Cancers change and evolve over time - they are not fixed and immutable. They can become more aggressive: better at evading the immune system and able to spread around the body.

A tumour starts as a single, corrupted cell, but becomes a mixture of millions of cells that have all mutated in slightly different ways.

TracerX tracked that diversity and how it changes over time inside lung cancer patients and say the results would apply across different types of cancer.

“That has never been done before at this scale,” said Prof Charles Swanton, from the Francis

Crick Institute and University College London.

More than 400 people - treated at 13 hospitals in the UK - had biopsies taken from different parts of their lung cancer as the disease progressed.

“It has surprised me how adaptable tumours can be,” Prof Swanton told me.

“I don’t want to sound too depressing about this, but I think - given the almost infinite possibilities in which a tumour can evolve, and the very large number of cells in a late-stage tumour, which could be several hundred billion cells - then achieving cures in all patients with late-stage disease is a formidable task.”

Prof Swanton said: “I don’t think we’re going to be able to come up with universal cures.

“If we want to make the biggest impact we need to focus on prevention, early detection and early detection of relapse.”

Obesity, smoking, alcohol and poor diet all increase the risk of some cancers. Tackling inflammation in the body is also being seen as a way of preventing cancer. Inflammation is the likely explanation for air pollution causing lung cancers and inflammatory bowel disease increasing the risk of colon cancer.

The evolutionary analysis has been published across seven

Poultry to be allowed outside as bird flu eases

Poultry and captive birds can be kept outside again starting next week as the risk from bird flu eases, the government said on Tuesday.

The Chief Veterinary Officer said the “mandatory housing order” for England and Wales would lift at 00:01 on Tuesday, April 18.

The measures were introduced during the world’s biggest-ever bird flu outbreak.

The UK has seen more than 330 cases confirmed and 4 million birds culled over the past year.

The decision means that eggs laid by hens with access to outdoor areas can be marketed as “freerange” again.

The UK’s Chief Veterinary

Officer, Dr Christine Middlemiss, still warned that “scrupulous standards” of biosecurity will need to be maintained as avian flu is expected to still be circulating in the environment for several weeks.

Ms Middlemiss said: “Whilst the lifting of the mandatory housing measures will be welcome news... the unprecedented nature of this outbreak has proved it’s more important than ever for bird keepers to remain vigilant.”

Figures released to the BBC showed that 208 million birds around the world have died from this latest outbreak and there have been 200 recorded cases of the flu spilling over into mammals.

Cancer Research UK said early detection of cancer was vitally important

separate studies in the journals Nature and Nature Medicine.

THE RESEARCH SHOWED:

Highly aggressive cells in the initial tumour are the ones that ultimately end up spreading around the body Tumours showing higher levels of genetic “chaos” were more likely to relapse after surgery to other parts of the body Analysing blood for fragments of tumour DNA meant signs of

it returning could be spotted up to 200 days before appearing on a CT scan

The cellular machinery that reads the instructions in our DNA can become corrupted in cancerous cells making them more aggressive.

The researchers hope the findings could, in the future, help them predict how a patient’s tumour will spread and to tailor treatment.

Dr David Crosby, the head of

prevention and early detection at Cancer Research UK, said: “The exciting results emerging from TracerX improve our understanding that cancer is a disease which evolves as it progresses, meaning that late-stage cancers can become very hard to treat successfully.

“This underscores the crucial importance of further research to help us to detect cancers at the earliest stages of their development or even better, to prevent them from happening at all.” (BBC)

‘Free-Range’ eggs will return to shops

But the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that the risk to the public is very low.

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association (Bfrepa) chief executive Robert Gooch said: “Free-range egg producers will be

relieved to see their hens outside again.

“While on the range, hens like to scratch, dust bathe and forage for additional food, displaying the natural behaviours that consumers associated with free-range and

organic egg production.”

Birds in Northern Ireland remain under lockdown but in Scotland the housing order was never implemented after the country’s chief vet said the evidence did not justify such a move. (BBC)

Science & Technology

Climate change: Fossil fuel emissions from electricity set to fall – report

THE world will likely use fewer fossil fuels to produce electricity this year in a “turning point” for planet-friendly energy, a new report says.

It would be the first ever annual drop in the use of coal, oil and gas to generate electricity, outside of a global recession or pandemic.

As a result, fewer warming gases would be released during energy production.

The authors attribute the expected change to a boom in renewable energy led mainly by China.

Wind and solar now produce 12% of global electricity with enough wind turbines added in 2022 to power almost all of the UK.

Renewables are set to meet all growth in demand this year, the study from energy analysts Ember says.

Making electricity is the single biggest contributor to global warming, responsible for over a third of energy-related carbon emissions in 2021.

So phasing out coal, oil and gas in this sector is seen as critical in helping the world avoid dangerous levels of climate change.

This new study looks at data from countries representing 93%

of global electricity demand.

This, the fourth edition of Ember’s Global Electricity Review, indicates that significant progress is now being made in reducing the role of fossil fuels in power production.

The major developments are the continuing rise of solar and wind as economically viable sources of electricity. Around the world, solar grew by 24% last year, enough to meet the annual demands of a country as big as South Africa.

Taken together with nuclear and hydropower, clean sources produced 39% of global electricity in 2022. The report finds that electricity produced last year was, in effect, the cleanest ever made.

But despite this, carbon emissions from the sector also continued to rise, as coal use edged up.

According to the report’s authors this is because overall demand for electricity rose, and not all of it was met from clean sources.

There were also problems with nuclear and hydro electricity in 2022, with many French reactors offline, and Europe’s rivers too low in many places for hydro generation.

However the report says that in 2023, the growth of wind and

China added around 40% of the world’s new solar panels last year, with large numbers of rooftop installations

solar will be greater than the rise in demand - and this will start to turn the tide on warming gases.

“When you stop adding more fossil fuels to generate your electricity, you start seeing a fall in emissions,” said Malgorzata Wiatros-Motyka, the report’s lead author.

“This is extremely important in the context of rising electrification, as we have more electric vehicles, more heat pumps, so cleaning the power sector will drive emissions down in other sectors as well.”

While the fall in fossil fuel emissions in electricity this year is expected to be small, around 0.3%, the authors believe the drop will continue and accelerate in subsequent years. Key to this is a fall off in the use of gas, which fell slightly last year according to

the report, with some countries like Brazil seeing a surge in hydro power which reduced their use of gas by 46% in 2022.

“We now have reached this next turning point of starting to see a new era of falling fossil fuel power sector emissions. We know that wind and solar are the answer and we’ve just got to get on with a roadmap for building them as quickly as possible,” said Dave Jones, from Ember, one of the report’s authors.

One significant player impacting the overall trend is China. Around 50% of the global addition of wind power came from China and about 40% of the world’s new solar came from from the country that’s also the world’s biggest use of coal power.

“There is a chance that at the rate that China is building wind

and solar and all types of clean generation, that they achieve that peak in coal generation earlier than 2025, which would be significant,” said Mr Jones.

Energy experts acknowledge that curbing fossil fuels in power generation could well be a “turning point”, but much more remains to be done.

“The earliest peak of coal power generation was in the UK in 1979,” said Prof Jessica Jewell from the University of Bergen, who was not involved with the study.

“Nevertheless, it took decades to fully phase out coal power, for example the UK still used a bit of coal in 2022, 43 years past the peak. In order to reach clean energy goals we don’t have 40 or even 30 years, we need to fully decarbonize electricity in a much shorter time.” (BBC)

China records world’s first human death from H3N8 bird flu, WHO says

A Chinese woman has become the first person to die from a type of bird flu that is rare in humans, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said, but the strain does not appear to spread between people.

The 56-year-old woman from the southern province of Guangdong was the third person known to have been infected with the H3N8

subtype of avian influenza, the WHO said in a statement late on Tuesday.

All of the cases have been in China, with the first two cases reported last year.

The Guangdong Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention reported the third infection late last month but did not provide details of the woman’s

death.

The patient had multiple underlying conditions, said the WHO, and a history of exposure to live poultry. Sporadic infections in people with bird flu are common in China where avian flu viruses constantly circulate in huge poultry and wild bird populations. (Reuters)

All of the cases have been in China, with the first two cases reported last year.

Sports International

WTA tournaments will return to China after boycott over Peng Shuai allegations

The Women’s Tennis Association will resume tournaments in China this year having accepted an investigation into the sexual assault allegations made by former player Peng Shuai will not be carried out by the Chinese government.

Former doubles world number one Peng said in November 2021 she was “forced” into a sexual relationship with former China vice-premier Zhang Gaoli.

The WTA suspended its endof-year events in China and said it would not return until there was an investigation and it had proof of Peng’s safety.

After making the accusation in a social media post, Peng briefly disappeared from the public eye and she then later denied making the allegation. Zhang has not commented publicly on the allegation.

The WTA had called for the Chinese authorities to hold a “full, fair and transparent” investigation before any tournaments could go ahead.

“We’ve been in this for 16

Premier League clubs to ban gambling sponsorship on front of matchday shirts

Premier League clubs have collectively agreed to withdraw gambling sponsorship from the front of their matchday shirts by the end of the 2025-26 season.

However, after the deadline, clubs will still be able to continue featuring gambling brands in areas such as shirt sleeves and LED advertising.

And clubs will be allowed to secure new shirt-front deals before the deadline.

Eight top-flight clubs have gambling companies on the front of their shirts, worth an estimated £60m per year.

The announcement follows a consultation between the league, its clubs and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) as part of the

government’s ongoing review of current gambling legislation.

The decision will see the Premier League become the first sports league in the UK to take such a measure voluntarily in order to reduce gambling advertising.

The league is also working with other sports on the development of a new code for responsible gambling sponsorship.

The government was not expected to propose banning gambling sponsorship, with the plan being for the Premier League to agree voluntarily to a change.

Reforms to the Gambling Act 2005 were largely agreed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson before he stepped down last July, leading to a delay in a gambling white paper being published.

months and we are convinced that at this point our requests will not be met,” WTA chief executive Steve Simon told BBC Sport.

“To continue with the same strategy doesn’t make sense and a different approach is needed. Hopefully, by returning, more progress can be made.”

The decision means the final two months of the WTA season will once again be dominated by China. Simon said the schedule will be “very similar” to the pre-pandemic year of 2019 when eight Chinese tournaments were staged in eight weeks from early September.

And crucially, the seasonending WTA Finals will resume its 10-year deal with the city of Shenzhen. Prize money this year, as it was in the first year of the contract in 2019, will be £11.2m.

Simon says the “great majority” of players are in support of a return to China.

And despite promising a hardline stance with the Chinese government, in which there would be no room for compromise,

he says he has not considered resigning.

“No, I would never do that to an organisation. It’s about leading an organisation and listening to its members,” he said.

“We have athletes that come from over 80 nations, so there’s plenty of different opinions, but the majority of athletes were very supportive of a return back to the region. We certainly have some that were not, but the majority - the great majority - were in support and are in support of going back. There was strong support across the members, the [player] council and the board.”

Simon says this change of heart was not forced upon them by commercial realities, but accepts members would have “sacrificed a great deal” had the WTA Tour withdrawn from China for good.

The WTA’s boycott lasted just over 16 months, although no tournaments could have taken place in the country during that period anyway because of the Covid pandemic. (BBC)

Spain police expose Brazilian football stardom scam

Police in Spain say they have uncovered two separate rings that were allegedly scamming mostly Brazilian families by promising they would turn their sons into elite footballers.

The gangs are accused of selling “false expectations” to families.

The rings charged an initial fee of more than 5,000 euros (£4,400) and then monthly payments of up to 1,700 euros per player, police say.

Around 70 families were scammed and 11 people have been arrested, police say.

Families were told that the money was to cover expenses including tuition fees, housing and paperwork for residency permits in the city of Granada.

But in reality the players “lived in houses... in cramped conditions, with little food and none of them managed to get legal residency” in Spain, the statement said.

Most of the players were Brazilian, aged 16 to 23.

The gangs - which operated independently of each other - split responsibilities, police say.

Some members of the gangs focused on recruitment, targeting wealthy families in their home countries. The second group were

West Ham are one of eight Premier League clubs to be sponsored by a gambling firm

The 2019 WTA Finals were held in Shenzhen, China, with Ashleigh Barty winning the title

The gangs are accused of selling “false expectations” to families

involved in educational centres that falsely certified registration so the players could obtain visas.

A third management group

oversaw the overall strategy. The investigation started after one of the players filed a complaint to police. (BBC)

scores his side’s third goal during the Champions League quarterfinal first-leg

Haaland breaks another scoring record as Manchester City humbles Bayern Munich

Another game, another goal and yet another record for Erling Haaland.

The Norwegian superstar found the target yet again on Tuesday as Manchester City beat Bayern Munich 3-0 in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal at the Etihad Stadium.

Haaland, who volleyed home his team’s third of the night, now has 45 goals in all competitions this season – the most ever by a Premier League player in history.

It’s yet another chapter in the 22-year-old’s astonishing debut season at City, which currently sees him top scorer in both the Premier League and Champions League.

However, despite his recordbreaking achievement, Haaland’s goal was overshadowed by his teammate Rodri’s opener.

It was a remarkable strike from

the Spaniard who raised the roof with a left-footed strike from distance which raced past Bayern goalkeeper Yann Sommer in the 27th minute.

It set the tone for the rest of the evening, with City humbling its visitor and all but ending the tie bar a miraculous comeback in the second leg.

City boss Pep Guardiola, who spent three years as Bayern manager, was more cautious about getting carried away.

“Here, we have our chances. Here in this stadium, we are something special this season. When we have the momentum, we are clinical.”

Tuesday’s win was a major statement from City which looks serious about winning its first ever Champions League title this season. A game against the German

Ashes 2023: England will not change attacking approach against Australia—Stokes

Ben Stokes says England will not alter their attacking approach when they take on Australia in the Ashes this summer.

England have won 10 out of 12 Test matches under captain Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, playing a bold and fearless brand of cricket.

That approach includes trying to force a result even if it risks defeat - something that will continue against Australia.

“I am not going to change anything just because it’s the Ashes,” said Stokes.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Stokes added: “Every single game that I play in this Ashes is going to be to force a result and that doesn’t

matter what the score is, what the situation is. It won’t change. That wouldn’t be being true to myself.

“Every player knows that the Ashes is where everything just ramps up a bit, from pressure to exposure, but we’ll stick to what we do.

“I’ve been around long enough, so has Baz [McCullum] and our senior players to make sure those little things don’t creep into the dressing room.”

Stokes says he has asked the five Test venues to produce “fast, flat wickets” that will suit England’s batters, who play very aggressively and look to score as quickly as possible to put the opposition under pressure.

champion was seen to be its biggest test of the campaign, but the host made it look all too easy.

After Rodri’s screamer, City upped the tempo in the second half and doubled its lead when the on-form Bernardo Silva – off a Haaland pass – directed his header into the roof of the net in the 70th minute.

Bayern defenders, notably Dayot Upamecano, looked devoid of confidence in the second half and gave City multiple chances to add to its lead.

Eventually, as he so often does, Haaland put the icing on the cake after he was left free to direct home a brilliant headed pass from John Stones.

“We got brutally punished for not a lot,” Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel told BT Sport after the game.

NASCAR

suspends driver indefinitely after felony assault charge

NASCAR has suspended driver Cody Ware indefinitely, according to NASCAR.com.

The suspension came after Ware was arrested and charged with felony “assault by strangulation” inflicting serious injury and misdemeanor assault on a woman in North Carolina, the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office said.

He was released on a $3,000 bond on Monday.

“We are aware of the incident regarding Cody Ware and his indefinite suspension from NASCAR competition,” Rick Ware Racing, which is owned by Cody Ware’s father, Rick, said in a statement on Monday.

“We understand NASCAR’s position on this matter and accept their decision. The matter is still

under investigation and Cody is fully cooperating with the authorities, as due process takes its course.”

Ware’s court date is scheduled for May 1, according to the North Carolina court’s website.

On Saturday, the team said Ware was stepping away “to focus on a personal matter.”

The 27-year-old North Carolina driver missed Sunday’s Cup race at Bristol Motor Speedway. He is currently ranked 31st in the championship standings.

Ware has been driving in the Cup Series since 2017, making 97 career starts. His personalbest finish was sixth at Daytona International Speedway last August. (CNN)

England have won 10 out of their last 12 Tests with Ben Stokes in charge

“We have been clear with the ground staff around the country about what we want and they have been really good,” said the Durham all-rounder. “We want fast, flat wickets because we want to score quickly and brings their guys in to

the game too.”

Stokes says the attacking approach extends to the bowlers too, with veteran pace duo Stuart Broad, 36, and James Anderson, 40, buying into the philosophy.

“Jimmy and Broady were

protective of their economy rates and they hate going for runs, they like tying batters down and working them out but now they’ve started to see it a bit differently,” said Stokes, who has played 91 Tests for England.

Cody Ware stands outside his garage as crew members work on the car during a practice session for the NASCAR Daytona 500 on February 17

Haaland

Sports International

UFC 287: Adesanya reclaims title from Pereira with spectacular knockout

Israel Adesanya reclaimed his middleweight title from long-time bitter rival Alex Pereira with a spectacular knockout at UFC 287 in Miami, Florida.

With his back against the cage in round two, Adesanya, 33, unleased two crushing right hands to send Pereira, 35, to the canvas.

The victory avenges three previous defeats for Adesanya against Pereira.

He lost twice in kickboxing in 2016 and 2017, and at UFC 281 in November.

That most recent defeat inside the octagon saw Brazil’s Pereira earn a stunning fifth-round knockout to win the title.

“I hope every one of you can feel this level of happiness for one time in your life,” said Nigeriaborn New Zealander Adesanya.

“But guess what - you’ll never feel this level of happiness if you don’t go for something in your life. When they knock you down, if you stay down you will never get that resolve.

“Fortify your mind and feel this level of happiness. I’m blessed to feel this again and again and again.”

In the co-main event, Brazil’s Gilbert Burns beat hometown favourite Jorge Masvidal by unanimous decision and then called for a title fight with British welterweight champion Leon Edwards.

Covington is next for Edwards but a second successive win for the fifth-ranked Burns, 36, could put him in the title picture.

“I am the only guy in the whole UFC who is willing to fight anyone at any time,” said Burns.

“If they call me to fight the devil you know what I’m going to say. That being said, Leon Edwards, I’m coming for you.”

has yielded 35 wins from 52 fights.

ADESANYA CONQUERS

HIS NEMESIS

Adesanya has said his rivalry with Pereira has produced the “greatest storyline in MMA history”.

five times.

But after achieving all he wanted to in kickboxing, where he was a multi-weight champion, Pereira followed Adesanya to the UFC and after wins in his first three fights, was fast-tracked to a title bout.

unleashed inside the octagon.

UFC commentator Joe Rogan, meanwhile, described Pereira’s walkout as “bone-chilling” as he stopped halfway to scream and mimic firing a bow and arrow, which is a nod to his indigenous roots in Brazil.

The opening stages of the fight saw both fighters throwing numerous feints and attacking via leg kicks, with Adesanya circling away from Pereira’s dangerous left hook while trying to keep the Brazilian going backwards.

The second round is where the fight sprung to life as Pereira applied pressure and, echoing scenes from their bout in November, attacked Adesanya against the cage.

Unlike their last meeting however, Adesanya was able to avoid damage and counter with two flush right hands which left Pereira flat out on his back.

Adesanya roared in delight before celebrating by mimicking Pereira’s bow and arrow taunt.

In victory, Adesanya becomes a two-time middleweight champion and inflicted the first defeat of Pereira’s five-fight UFC career.

Masvidal, 38, announced his retirement following a distinguished 20-year career which

Rory McIlroy withdraws from PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage event

UFC president Dana White has previously said American Colby Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from this week’s PGA Tour event, the RBC Heritage at Hilton Head in South Carolina.

No reason was given for the withdrawal of the world number three as it was announced by the PGA Tour.

The Northern Irishman, 33, shot rounds of 72 and 77 to miss the cut at last week’s Masters by two shots - his ninth attempt to complete the career Grand Slam at Augusta National.

The RBC Heritage is among the PGA Tour’s designated events.

Players ranked in the top 20 of the circuit’s Player Impact Program (PIP) - created to reward players for boosting engagement and publicity in the PGA Tour - are allowed to skip only one designated event per

season.

McIlroy has already sat out the season-opening Sentry Tournament of Champions in January.

This second absence could potentially cost him bonus money from the PIP, which is distributed at the end of the PGA Tour season and which earned McIlroy £7.5m in 2022.

Former world number one Jason Day, who was on the fringes of contention at Augusta, has also pulled out of this week’s event.

McIlroy won the last of his four majors in 2014 but claiming the Masters would have made him only the sixth player to complete the men’s career Grand Slam.

He went into the tournament with four wins on the PGA Tour in the past 10 months and with

Following Adesanya’s second kickboxing defeat in 2017, he transitioned full-time to MMA, where he went on to become UFC middleweight champion in 2019 and dominate the division for three years, defending the unified belt

That encounter saw Pereira beat Adesanya inside the octagon, setting up an immediate rematch and fourth fight between the pair.

Adesanya wore a dog collar during his walkout, saying pre-fight that when he takes it off he will be

“I told you the hunter is now the hunted. Thank you for beating me because beating me made me a better fighter, a better person” said Adesanya.

“In this camp I didn’t [mess] around. If you know me I like to vacation but I stayed on the grind and I put myself through it.” (BBC)

Adesanya earned his 13th win in 15 UFC fights

Rory McIlroy’s hopes of completing the career Grand Slam disappeared as he missed the cut at the Masters

many suggesting this would finally be the year he achieved golfing immortality. McIlroy declined to do any postround interviews after failing to make the halfway cut. (BBC)

Sports National

Cox and Ewing only nonBahamian officials at CARIFTA Games

TCI’s Andrew Ewing and Roshano Cox were the only nonBahamian officials out of the hundreds assigned by the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials at the 50th CARIFTA Games in Nassau, Bahamas over the weekend.

Ewing was assigned as Call Room Specialist for all events while Cox served as an Electronic Distance Measuring (EDM/EDR) Specialist for the long jump, triple jump, javelin, shot put, discus throw and hammer throw events.

Cox, who is also a TCI Sports Commission Sports Development

Officer in North Caicos, said, “I am so proud of myself and my fellow colleague on this new regional journey. The new information, experience, and fellow colleagues, make this journey so overwhelming. Mr Ewing and I [Roshano Cox], for the last two days, were both put into leadership positions in our sections. Not because we were the most experienced, but because we are two individuals who have the hunger of a pack of wolves and use the information given, as we apply them with integrity. We both quickly climbed the scale and were placed in leadership roles.”

Delano Williams Foundation supports TCI high schools

The Delano Williams Foundation (DWF) lived up to its objective of empowering athletes through sport. At the HJ Robinson High School recently, the 2023 Chair of the DWF, Mrs Rita Gardiner, along with TCI’s first Olympian Delano Williams joined Principal, Mr Berkley Williams, the coaches and head girl to receive a special presentation to assist in carrying out their athletic programme in a more effective and efficient manner.

Also on hand to receive a financial donation was Ms Ann Yates, mother of 13-year-old Rayvon Black, who is attending High School in Jamaica. Williams is intrigued by the performance of Rayvon thus far and has pledged to assist him with his nutrition and

training needs going forward.

The DWF made similar presentations to the Coaches of Louise Garland-Thomas High School in Long Bay and Clement Howell High in Blue Hills.

In his remarks to the coaches, Williams stated how proud he was in giving back. He said whenever possible, he would go the extra mile to ensure athletes receive the best tools to assist in competing on the world stage. Since the formation of his foundation in 2014 he has been giving back to the athletes of the Turks and Caicos Islands in a most significant way.

Other members of the foundation include Mrs Thelma VanAlstine, Mrs Gertrude Forbes and Mrs Ruth Barton.

Roshano Cox (left) and Andrew Ewing in the Bahamas

Delano Williams Foundation has been instrumental in the advancement of sport in the TCI. (File photo)

Sports National

Walkin says CARIFTA medals “mean everything”

Leads TCI’s charge in the Bahamas

Antwon Walkin battled through injuries and self-doubt this season and although he recently broke the national discus record, he credited last weekend’s CARIFTA Games performance as the high point of his young career.

“It means everything. Getting to represent my country on a huge stage and to bring home medals mean the world—it’s worth every session.”

The 17-year-old led TCI’s charge with two of the three medals at the Games. He won a bronze each in discus and shot put.

In the discus, his best throw of 50.24m earned him a podium finish, just short of his national record of 50.74m, which he achieved at ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls Champs

Walkin’s other medal came in the shot put, when he threw it a distance of 15.24m, a new personal best. His previous U20 best was 15.17m.

Darvioun Rigby placed 5th with a distance of 15.01m in the shot put final.

TCI’s other medal came via the running prowess of debutant Love Joseph, who powered his way to third place in the U17, 3000M finals.

In a post-race comment, he

thanked his coaches, his parents and friends and the support from the TCI.

Overall, the young team did relatively well with a number of personal best performances and several credible finishes.

In the stands, TCI was also well represented, since scores of persons had travelled to Nassau for the event.

President of the TCAAA Edith Skippings said she was happy with the overall performance, especially since a few athletes missed the trip due to injuries.

She said that the TCI possesses the needed talent, but that the talent must be nurtured.

“We know we have the talent. We just have to mature it and help our athletes do the best they can to reach their potential goals.”

Jamaica finished as the 2023 champions, having won the title for the 37th consecutive time, after winning 40 gold medals, 22 silver and 16 bronze.

Home team the Bahamas, finished second with 10 gold, 13 silver and 23 bronze, while Trinidad and Tobago finished third with nine gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze.

Haiti brought up the rear with two bronze medals.

Antwon Walkin won two medals for the TCI (Sports Commission photos)

Love Joseph finished with a bronze medal in the U17 3000M

Walkin and some of the TCI supporters who travelled for the Games

Some of the young athletes that represented the TCI in the Bahamas