TC Weekly News April 29 - May 5, 2023

Opposition remains strong against the formation of the Destination Management Organisation (DMO) from the PDM, with their latest assertion being that the PNP hoodwinked its supporters about their true intentions to secure votes.

DMO aims to make TCI the envy of the world – says Premier

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The vision and the objective of the newly established Destination Management Organization (DMO) “is to make the TCI the envy of the world” as it relates to sustainable tourism.

This is according to Premier Hon Washington Misick who recently described the entity which has been shrouded in controversy as a “social partnership” to foster inclusivity and drive sustainable tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The territory’s Premier made these remarks during a joint press conference with the Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly on Monday, April 24, 2023, held at the Shore Club, Resort, Providenciales.

The national press briefing was called to address mistruths and misconceptions about the DMO which has recently replaced the Tourist Board, an entity that was

responsible for the management and marketing of the territory’s tourism sector for decades.

Misick said sustainable tourism development demands coordinated and collective action, and the Destination Management Organization (DMO) is a crucial steering stakeholder in this equation.

As such the Destination Management Organization (DMO) sometimes referred to as the Destination Management and Marketing Organization (DMMO) will coordinate and plan all elements that make up a tourism destination.

This can involve anything from attracting visitors to providing amenities and attractions for them to enjoy during their stay.

In an attempt to set the record straight, Premier Misick made it pellucid that the establishment of the DMO is in keeping with promises made by his party on the campaign trail prior to being

elected.

He said: “There seems to be a significant level of confusion in the public space about what we're doing.

“ Some of it, as the Minister said, maybe a deliberate attempt to mislead…the very second point in the citizens' contract said very clearly, that the government, my government, as an election promise will seek to upgrade the Tourist Board to a full functioning tourism Destination Marketing Organization, it is no secret.”

He pointed out that the Tourist Board was driven by the government solely and it doesn't take into consideration the “vicissitudes of the economy”.

He said: “ The Turks and Caicos is probably the most tourismdependent destination, perhaps after Macau in the China Sea and so we can't pretend that all of us whether we're an attorney, a hotel worker, a construction worker, whatever we do in this country isn't connected to tourism. “We have to focus on sustainability, Triple Bottom Line sustainability, the economy, the social balance, and our precious natural capital, which is our environment.”

In this vein, Misick described the DMO as a “social partnership,” among all stakeholders.

“The stakeholder list when it comes to tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands is extensive and it includes everyone.

“So, it is critical that every stakeholder group has a seat at the decision table so that their views and their interest are included.”

what I mean by that is people become comfortable, they become successful and they forget that the world isn't, isn't standing still.

“TCI has done very well in terms of the natural environment, the beauty of the ocean and the proximity to its source market, and a lot of other reasons, but those things are not sufficient.”

Misick stressed that while the territory’s tourism has come in for high praise over the years as it relates to its natural attributes, it is still lacking in some areas.

He said: “I've personally done extensive research on our market and if you were to do this too you would find that while you have glowing reviews on this market, there are criticisms about two major aspects of tourism.

“Those two major aspects are attractions and activities, and so in order to have a complete product line and support that to focus on every touchpoint in the sort of ecosystem of tourism and so that's what the DMO will do.”

Misick admitted that while change is “uncomfortable and disruptive”, it is the seed of “revolutions, innovation and progress generally.”

SUSTAINABLE LUXURY

Misick disclosed that travellers are looking for new and unique experiences and luxury travellers want to learn and understand the culture and history of the places they visit.

that's what we're doing now.

“But if you look to the right, collaboration and cooperation is important and of course, we talk often about diversification of our tourism product.

He continued: “TCI has a great reputation as a sustainable luxury tourism destination and we want to continue to sell ourselves as a sophisticated, exclusive, qualitydriven destination in terms both of our products and the quality of the service that we offer.”

COMPETITIVENESS

In order for the territory to maintain its competitive edge on the global tourism market, Misick said the DMO will collaborate with small businesses across the islands to diversify the products and services offered to guests.

He said: “At the end of the day all roads lead to competitiveness. I

“f you're not competitive, you go the way of the dinosaur and nobody benefits, but inclusive growth means to have them promote the destination and provide technical assistance and support for small businesses with linkages back to the major tourism product.

“And the product has to be both diversified and stratified and drafting tourism policies and strategies will involve everyone.

“If you look at the standard, at the moment TCI doesn't even feature on the CTO’s competitive numbers.”

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Misick opined that while Tourism has augured well for the Turks and Caicos Islands, catapulting the territory to a very high level in terms of the global branding image, it is simply not prudent for the Government to rest on its laurels.

He said: “TCI is doing well and in some parts of the Caribbean, it is an envy, and so why change that? Why change that if it's doing so, well?

“Nothing fails, like success,

This he said, presents a unique opportunity for the Turks and Caicos Islands to further build on the success it has had in this area.

He said: “Smart travellers today, high-end educated well financially solid, travellers looking for an experience they want to go to a destination that's sustainable.

“This generation is more conscious about the globe, the world and the earth and so to the extent that we can sell our brand as sustainable.

“There's a lifecycle and that lifecycle on many occasions has to be reimagined and retooled, so

He stressed working with international airlines and other travel partners to promote the destination will augur well for the territory.

“We have a great brand, which we can continue to develop and promote.

“I mean, to be honest with you, the amount of juice that we squeezed out of tourism on this island is incredible, but it is fortuitous.

“I think the private sector has been driving this industry and TCI has come on the scene in the early 2000s and it has never really left.”

Premier Hon Washington Misick

PDM alleges PNP supporters were deceived about DMO

BY DELANA ISLES

Opposition remains strong against the formation of the Destination Management Organisation (DMO) from the PDM, with their latest assertion being that the PNP hoodwinked its supporters about their true intentions to secure votes.

There is no question at this stage whether the government will go through with the DMO against the tide of protest from many residents – the relevant documents have been signed and sealed, the handshakes and photo-ops done, and the DMO has officially been launched.

Yet, there persists the theory that the PNP government has sold the Turks and Caicos Islands out to private interests, bamboozled its supporters, and left many Tourist board workers on the ‘breadline’, jobless and without a care.

These assertions have been staunchly denied by the government, most recently this week, during a national press event aimed at educating the populace as to the facts of the matter, and not the rumours.

A fact, the DMO will be a public-private partnership aimed at distributing the benefits of the tourism sector across the entire destination. Whereas the nowdefunct Tourist Board was wholly managed by the government.

Another fact, the entire staff of the Tourist Board was made redundant and urged to reapply to the new DMO.

Herein lies the opposition’s latest assertion that residents were hoodwinked.

In a statement on Wednesday,

Leader

of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood stated: “We all have run into situations in life where we think that people will not notice what we are doing, and become very surprised and defensive when someone says, ‘Wait a minute, hold up let me look at this again’”.

He said most people would take this opportunity to rethink, readjust, and make things right, particularly if many people are telling them to do so, and showing them how wrong they were.

“But this is not the case with the Premier and his Cabinet.”

Astwood pointed to statements made by the Premier during a House of Assembly sitting on April 16, Wednesday, in which he said:

“The Destination Management Organisation was a campaign promise and was in the Citizen’s Contract, and those who voted for this PNP administration, knew that

the DMO was coming.”

Astwood asserts: “In other words, he is saying that all those who voted for this PNP administration supported the closing down of the Tourist Board and replacing it with the DMO.”

He expressed scepticism at this statement, saying: “Somehow, I do not think that this is what the Premier’s supporters were expecting, maybe some in the inner circle would have known the sneaky details, but not the majority of the people who voted for the PNP at the last election.”

The Opposition leader once again called out the government on their unwillingness to consider the people’s concerns regarding the DMO.

“This just shows that they are so used to having no respect at all for the average Turks and Caicos Islander. They just let it out, and don’t care that the people are

listening, or how people may have felt about it.”

He added: “Today, we also heard straight from the Premier and Cabinet Ministers, that it is a done deal, the DMO is here. The deal is signed, sealed, and delivered. This is showing again the contempt this PNP administration feels for us.”

Astwood alluded to the Minister of Finance’s statements in the House on Wednesday, whereby he likened the Apple iPod to iPhone evolution to what the government is doing with the DMO by phasing out the Tourist Board.

“Just as Apple took the iPod and developed the iPhone which saved Apple, the government has taken a good thing and made it better,” Finance Minister, EJ Saunders told members.

The PDM leader stated: “Yes ultimately, the iPod's biggest enemy turned out to be Apple itself and Apple was willing to sacrifice a

hit when it believed it had another one. And then in 2007, Apple brought out the iPhone, which does everything the iPod can and so very much more, it was surely the end for the single-purpose music player.

“What did not happen, Mr Minister, was that Apple did not give control of their star product or their new upcoming star product to another company, nor did they put the management and sale of their new star product into the hands of others, like this government is doing right now.”

He stated that Apple made a good thing better, themselves, by bringing the talent, using the accumulated experience, and employing the latest technical advancements.

“The government should be doing the same. The government should be making the people’s Tourist Board better and not shutting it down, leaving our Turks and Caicos Islanders jobless.”

He is urging Islanders to reexamine the issues and “see this PNP administration for who they really are”.

He added: “We should not sit back and say nothing and should not accept this kind of contempt and disrespect.

“People who supported this PNP government have to come forward and admit that this is not the party that they knew.

“This is not what they voted for them for. They are not representing the interest of the majority of their supporters, and certainly not representing the interest of the majority of Turks and Caicos Islanders.”

ALL citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands are being urged to check the validity of their BOTC passports before finalising their travel plans.

An ongoing strike by almost 2,000 British passport offices kicked off a five-week strike over a pay dispute on April 3, which has triggered serious delays in the processing and issuance of British Overseas Territory Citizens (BOTC) passports.

The Department of Citizenship and Naturalisation within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy and Utilities, and Telecommunications Commission

recently informed residents of the delays due to the current strike by the UK Passport Office workers which is expected to end on May 5, 2023.

In a statement issued earlier this week, the department said: “Given the current delays, all citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands is reminded of the importance of checking the validity of their passports whether there are immediate plans to travel, or not and before purchasing airline tickets.

“The Passport Office further recommends that you should apply for a new passport ten (10) weeks before you are due to travel to

avoid any delays in receiving your new passport.”

The Department further advised that there are strict guidelines governing the issuance of TCI emergency passports which will be accepted on the basis of certain conditions including a request from InterHealth Canada regarding an emergency transfer of a patient to another country outside the Turks and Caicos Islands.

As well as urgent business travel by Government Officials and Parliamentarians and any other travel that may be considered on compassionate grounds.

The British passport workers are the latest group of civil servants

to demand a pay raise in response to double-digit inflation threatened to cause headaches for travelers ahead of the summer holiday season.

The action is a result of a longrunning dispute over pay, pensions,

redundancy terms and job security. The strike involves close to 2000 workers in the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) working in passport offices in England, Scotland and Wales.

BOTC-Turks and Caicos passports

Five-week workers' strike triggers delay in the processing of BOTC passports

DMO AND TCI'S TOURISM

The Turks and Caicos Islands now has a private company managing the tourism product of the Islands. It is called the Destination Management Organisation (DMO), instead of the former Tourist Board. The new entity was launched during a signing ceremony at the office of Premier Washington Misick in Providenciales on Friday, April 14th, 2023, in the presence of toplevel government and tourism industry officials.

Minister of Tourism Josephine Connolly said the DMO has been established "with a clear mandate to improve efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery for tourism" in the Turks and Caicos Islands. She further stated: "This DMO is not just about replacing the Tourist Board. It is about building a better future by channelling tourist dollars throughout the community. It is about creating a more responsive body that serves the needs of all citizens who have a stake in the tourist industry. It is about enhancing the attractiveness of the destination by developing products that will give a lasting memory to our travellers and promoting opportunities that our people can take full advantage of and enjoy the benefits of the economic growth of these great Turks and Caicos Islands..." What are your thoughts?

Change is necessary

Change is frightening. Once the organisation as a new structure propels the longevity of tourism of the country, let's do it. Go for change! Commendation to those in authority with the vision to strive to retain the economic sector that feeds everyone in the country.

Deception

The PNP government will never disappoint when it comes to dispossessing its people of their birthright and natural resources. One doesn’t need to recall too far back in history to see this trend. This is a political party that consists of the most unpatriotic group of people who will sell out every and anything which benefits its citizens. No surprises here.

Conflict of interest

Let's look at this: "channelling tourist dollars throughout the community" "... that serves the needs of all citizens who have a stake in the tourist industry." And "...that our people can take full advantage of and enjoy the benefits of the economic growth".

Am I the only one who can see the

conflicts of interest?

Now we are going to need a properly established tourism regulator. For example, how much of the rent earned on local vacation properties stay here? This company is unlikely to propose taxing outbound revenue if that is a promising idea.

A waste of money and resources

Stakeholders of a Country ie the residents, and natives, mainly, Turks & Caicos Islanders want to see their country and institutions managed and controlled by their own people. For tourism this is critical. Tourism, to be real, is marketing ones culture, history, being and way of life. While it is a business, the notion is that it is NOT ALL BUSINESS. Part of it is the people.

To jettison the Tourist Board in favour of a Destination Management Organisation (this DMO) is foolhardy and shows a complete disregard of the people of the TCI.

The assertion by the Premier that the idea of the DMO is to improve the mandate of the tourism administration implies that the current arrangement is not efficient.

All of the matters that the Premier outlined are undertakings that the current and outgoing Tourist Board itself could carry

out, such as spreading more money into the community, being more responsive and developing new products for the destination. All that takes in planning, imagination and not wasting money.

After the TCI Government and Tourist Board, over the years, would have trained and educated its tourism personnel they must now be severed and paid off. Then reapply for the same job they just lost. It is madness and does not make an iota of sense. It is a waste of Turks & Caicos Islanders’ taxpayers’ money, getting rid of dedicated and experienced staff. Plain and simple.

Complete and utter sell-out

Interacting with senior, qualified and experienced personnel of the Tourist Board (the Board), it is easy to see that these persons are dedicated and passionate about the TCI. Tourism is their business. So advertising in the region, to the exclusion of the TCI, for new staff is an affront and insult to the staff at the Board.

The response from the PDM Opposition is timely and much needed. Former Minister of Tourism, the Hon Ralph Higgs has pointed out that the new personnel are already in the TCI and staying at five-star resorts. How is this possible when these jobs were never advertised locally?

The remarks of the Hon Higgs reflect what most Turks & Caicos Islanders are saying. It is an affront. How could they do this to the people? The leadership of the PDM Opposition underscores that the Staff removed are the only experts in the TCI, region and world who understand the TCI and its Tourism product.

Why get rid of them? What could this all be about? The development should prompt questions from parliament such as the opposition, government and governor’s appointed members. There is no reason why Government backbenchers should not table this as an issue. If they do, it would be unprecedented as there has never been a PNP Backbencher, since this Government took office that has ever taken this PNP Government to task for anything.

They must know that the Tourist Board issue is a vital national issue and they were not elected to simply be cheerleaders for the Government’s deliberate mistakes. This issue supersedes politics and is a turning point on where the Government wants to take TCI natives.

False rationale

The Premier’s assertion that “the new mode of operation would cater to a 50/50 management between government and the private sector, as opposed to a tourist board where government is the only one at the table” is based on a false premise.

For many years the Tourist Board and the Hotel association have worked hand-inhand. The private sector has always had a

say and a stake, the experience there hasn’t been all that good as the TCI native always felt left out that equation. There was and is now, ‘nothing’ stopping the Tourist Board to create a division, an arm to create effective cooperation and collaboration with the Government oversight and private sector.

Despite what the Premier is saying, the Tourist Board can be restructured to suit what the TCI people want and not what the government and the private sector want alone. All they need is policy, ideas, imagination and amending legislation to do it. This idea posited that it cannot be restructured is a false one and shows the government is taking TCI people as fools.

What is meant by organic rather that a fertilized one? All kinds of language and ruses to hide the truth from the people. None of it is clear. This is double speak by the Premier.

Betrayal of trust

This government was elected in the night when half of the electorate stayed home, so it is clear that they do not feel they have a mandate and really do not care about how the people feel.

By telling the people what to want and getting testy with former ministers of government, it betrays that they are nervous about what they are trying to run down the public’s throat. No one can buy what is being said by the Premier, that “the Tourist Board cannot be restructured.

It is a tourist board. if we structure it, we would assume it is still driven by the government. So, I don’t see how we can restructure it. I think what we are doing is restructuring the whole tourist ecosystem,” Either the Government is powerless or lacks an agenda for the people of the TCI when they say they cannot restructure the board.

With 14 seats they can do as they like, and they are doing what they please. They have betrayed the trust of the people with this move, and they have surrendered their mandate, if any, to a dubious arrangement that the public does not comprehend.

A tourism administration could be helpful to the TCI if they only have a vision and an agenda for the people so that they would not “Perish”.

The Tourist as is can facilitate joint ventures for TCI professionals and business owners. Opportunities abound for Resort development, entertainment and the list is long. The current staff knows these things and only needs to be cleared to empower the TCI native.

“We now have to step up our game” – Tourism

Minister says sun, sand and beach are not enough

BY OLIVIA ROSE

“We now have to step up our game, we have to become more strategic in our marketing, we have to develop and promote more local products, enhance the on-island experience for our visitors so that they can keep coming back again and again.”

These sentiments were expressed by the Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly during a joint press conference with Premier Hon Washington Misick on Monday, April 24, 2023, held at the Shore Club, Resort, Providenciales to address concerns relating to the newly established Destination Marketing and Management Organization (DMO).

She said: “It is not enough to say we have sun, sand and beaches; we have to develop more opportunities for our visitors to be immersed in our culture, our local food and mingle and enjoy the warmth of our people.

“This cannot be done in isolation; this cannot be achieved by the current Tourist Board, an organisation whose mandate was purely for marketing.”

Connolly who commend the organisation and its staff for the “stellar job” they have done over the years, stressed that in order for the TCI to compete with other destinations, a robust marketing and tourism organisation is needed.

She said: “As you can appreciate, we are a part of the global community, a community where change is constant.

“If we are to be serious players in the competitive environment, we needed to restructure the tourism management framework so that we can now have stakeholders all working together to develop products, services and improve guest experiences.”

Minister Connolly in her attempt to dispel misinformation, and correct all assumptions on the inner workings of the DMO said it will be founded on three pillars; Inclusive Growth, Sustainable Development and Competitiveness as she presented details on how the new organization will benefit the people of the Turks and Caicos

Islands.

She said: “Much has been said over the past few days since the signing of the by-laws and establishing the Destination Marketing and Management Organization.

“It is most unfortunate that much of the information presented is either incorrect (and) or untrue.

“Whether it is by design for political advantage or selfgratification, or to stoke fears amongst our people, peddling untruths and misinformation creates chaos.

“The fact is, many countries in the Caribbean are positioning

themselves to be more like Turks and Caicos, to shift from mass tourism towards more luxury tourism.”

In this vein, she posited that the Turks and Caicos Islands has to up its game as it relates to the marketing and management of the destination to stay abreast with the competition.

INCLUSION

Under the current Tourist Board Ordinance, the process is driven by appointments made by politicians alone which has the effect of limiting and oftentimes excluding broad stakeholder representation,

Connolly explained.

On the other hand, the DMO is a public/private sector partnership geared towards fostering inclusion and to give all stakeholders including; the Chamber of Commerce, Airports Authority, Ports Authority, Invest TCI, TCHTA, Tour Operators, Watersports Association, Taxi Association, Straw Vendors, National Trust and Island/ Community Representatives, a seat at the table.

“In other words, my people, what we have created, is an organization that put you, as a direct participant in charge of the growth and development of the tourism sector.

“We are putting you in the co-pilot’s seat along with the Government to drive the economic development of this country for our children and future generations.

“Now, you tell me, how is this wrong?

“My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, we have spoken directly to some of you, and we have heard your concerns.

“You want and need to feel the direct benefits of the tourism industry, from the economic development of these islands.”

Minister Connolly also pointed out that for many years, the tourism sector developed unevenly, mainly to the benefit of Providenciales.

To this end, the DMO will facilitate the balanced development of tourism across the archipelago

CABINET MEETING SUMMARY

Turks and Caicos Islands post Cabinet meeting statement

Her Excellency acting Governor, Anya Williams, chaired the 10th and 11th meeting of Cabinet on April 14 and 18, both held at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales.

All members were present for the two meetings except for the Minister of Tourism.

Only one item was discussed during the April 18th meeting.

Members approved amendments to effect necessary reforms to the Turks and Caicos Islands Immigration Ordinance, covering but not limited to persons transiting the islands, Permanent Residence Certificates,

Work Permits, Visas, detention, asylum and deportation issues, and agreed to the next steps.

These changes were discussed at the previous Cabinet meeting on April 14.

At that meeting, members also discussed proposed recommendations by the Immigration and Population Policy Council and agreed to the next steps.

Cabinet also approved the reappointment of Darron Hilaire Jr (Chair), Benmore A. Kennedy, Botolph Marc Henry and the Prison Superintendent (Ex-Officio) Members

and the appointment of Leo Selver, Bishop Austraham Hamilton and the Manger – Probations & Rehabilitation Unit (Ex-Officio) Members of the Parole Board for a period of one (renewals only) or two years (new appointees) with effect from April 17, 2023, until March 31, 2025.

Members also approved the reappointment of Clayton Been (Chair), Delleriece Hall, Chalsyana Misick, Lerone Ingham and Permanent Secretary Home Affairs or his designate (Ex-Officio) as Members of the Telecommunications Commission for a period of two years with effect from 17

April 2023 until 31 March 2025. Approval was also given for amendments to the Post Office Ordinance to include but, not limited to, all courier and freight forwarding businesses requiring an exemption to operate under the Postmaster’s Exclusive Privilege and the inclusion of packages and parcels requiring exemption under the Postmaster’s Exclusive Privilege.

Members were also updated on issues relating to the Ministries of Immigration, Education, Attorney General’s Office, and Office of the Acting Governor.

Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly during a joint press conference with Premier Hon Washington Misick on Monday, April 24, 2023

There is only so much a teacher, or a leader can do

There is a famous proverb that says, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” I agree with this proverb, but a man/woman must also be willing to learn how to fish.

Too many times, we blame the teachers and leaders for our circumstances when we really should be blaming ourselves. Sometimes we are not desperate enough because if we are desperate enough, we will do what it takes to learn. Of course, some may argue and say some people don’t know what is available and so how will they learn. This is why it is important to ask questions.

Teachers are there to teach students. Parents are there to train their children. Likewise, leaders are there to lead by example and to ensure that there are opportunities

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

and training available for their staff. Some individuals learn differently, some individuals are slow to learn, and some individuals are fast learners. Therefore, teachers, parents and leaders sometimes must find different methodologies to train others. However, there is only so much a leader can and should do.

I believe many of us have missed out on opportunities because of our attitudes. The Community College

in the Turks and Caicos is offering free tuition. How many of us have register with the College.? Many of us complain that we need a technical school. While we do not have a separate technical school, the Community College has a technical and vocational training program. How many people have registered in this program?

Many of us also complain about not having access to capital. Well

Invest TCI has grants of $30k available for selected types of businesses. Invest TCI also offers training in quickbooks, accounting software. How many people show up to these training workshops?

Invest TCI also assists with teaching you how to do business plans and even pays a portion of the fee to a registered partner who assists you with the preparation and completion of the plans.

The point I am trying to make with the above illustrations, is that you must be willing to learn too. If you don’t understand what is being taught to you, you can google almost anything and learn information especially through demonstrations on videos.

Part of the learning process is listening. If you want to learn something, please be attentive and listen. How many of us pay attention

to details? How many of us are on our mobile phones when someone is showing you something? How many of us skip the training that is available? How many of us complete our assignments?

In conclusion, the truth is learning is a two-way stream. You cannot expect the teacher to do everything for you. The teacher already has the knowledge. You must be willing to learn and apply what you have learned. If you do, this will allow you to progress from the bottom to the top. Embrace the opportunities that are available and stop blaming others for being in the position you are in. If you are hungry enough for a fish, then you will find that fish. I maybe wrong but I believe some of us have this sense of entitlement and are not desperate enough to learn.

AI acceleration is transforming the world

The student or the employee must be willing to learn too ... and the TCI should brace for its impact

The emergence of the industrial revolution driven by the success of the steam engine, scientific discoveries and the rise of digital technology were expected to make humankind obsolete. Nowadays, the genesis and acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) have fomented similar echoes from around the world.

As we know, automated machines, while they have transformed modern society, did not extinguish workers, as opined by many. In fact, these computerized systems have created new and innovative jobs, which were once in low demand globally. However, there might be a

BY D MARKIE SPRING

turning point! Expert say, the recent advances in machine learning are pushing the world into a period of technological progression, deemed more impactful than the scientific and industrial revolutions combined.

They iterated, the creation of transformer architectures and vast

deep learning models programmed on thousands of graphics processing unit has resulted in the birth of smart, complex programs capable of understanding and fashioning language in a manner indistinguishable to humans.

Considering AI rapid acceleration, it is a commonplace worry that the technology will be a vehicle for misinformation and would eventually take over humanity. So, can the technology achieve this?

Dubbed the ‘godfather of AI’ and who has focused his chief energy on the technology for more than 40 years, Geoffrey Hinton confirmed in an interview with CBS News –Columbia Broadcasting System –there are cause for concern, as the odds of AI decimating humanity is not inconceivable.

But the godfather – despite the evolving of the technology faster than predicted – he is not so worry about AI-induced end to humanity, but how the system would be managed, as it would impact every product across every company.

Similarly, Google and Alphabet CEO, Sundar Pichai, said the jobs to be disrupted by AI are accountants, writers, architects and, sarcastically, software engineers – owing to the humanlike capabilities of Google Chatbot Bard.

Consequently, Elon Musk Steve Wozniak and the world of academia issued an immediate pause in training “experiments” linked to large language models, more powerful than GPT—4. Since then, more than 25,000 people have signed the petition.

So, what should the TCI response be? The Government must forge bipartisan support on regulations, and laws to penalize violators and bolster protocols with foreign Governments to make AI safe for society.

More so, policymakers should launch an IT task force to educate

users and develop expertise among Government workers. The task force could help regulate and monitor unusual network activity and entry points, which would identify potential data vulnerabilities and galvanize access restrictions to critical data, and compliance aligned with societal values and morals.

However, this should not only involve lawmakers, but consultation with entrepreneurs, parents, the attorney general office and educators. Additionally, the Government must promote the use of trustworthy AI and establishes guidance and national adaption of AI to effectively deliver services to the people of the TCI, and foster public trust of the technology.

The TCI Government should prioritize controlling and managing AI. And everyone should be concerned that no one understands the technology; yet, tech giants turned it loose on society.

And considering the rapid pace, it is reasonable for society to be worrying about these issues now. In the meantime, the government should bepromoting awareness and planning ahead.

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.

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.

Rethink

One of life’s most important questions is “WHO IS GOD?” The right answer determines who we worship, what we give our time and energy to, and where we find meaning in and for life. Answer wrongly and you open a door marked "The absurd is the essential concept and the first truth." - Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus. Life’s other important question is “WHO AM I”. How you answer that question goes a long way to determine your identity.

The importance of having the right answer to both the questions above cannot be overstated. Here are some tips to help you, the reader, begin the journey of RETHINKING your identity.

1. You Are Not What You Do –Some of us define who we are by putting forward what we do: I am a teacher, I am a doctor, I am a businesswoman, I am just a cleaner, I am a nursing assistant. What you do is important, but you are not what you do. Jesus allowed God to define his identity, when the devil sought to tempt him, he came straight at that identity asking him to do something to prove his identity. Get this loved one, you are not what you do, if anything your identity is determined by God. You are who HE says you are.

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

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

2. Expand Your Identity – Some of you are like, “I know I am not what I do, I am a child of God”, and that is perfect because you are, but do you know what else you are? According to Ephesians

1:1-14, in Christ “You are a saint, you are blessed, you are chosen, you are holy and blameless, you are adopted, you have been redeemed, you have been forgiven, you have an inheritance in heaven, you are sealed with the Holy Spirit”. You are a child of God if you have placed your faith in Christ, but you have more so expanded your identity by knowing what God says about you. Why don’t you do this, read Ephesians 1 for yourself and list all that it says about who you are and state it like this, IN CHRIST I AM ….

3. Expose Lies About Your Identity

– Since my identity is defined by God and he tells me who I am, then I must expose and reject

lies about who I am. Let me give you an example; in my family, there is a history of asthma and sickle cell anemia, I have had episodes of asthma in my life. Now that being the case I have a choice, will I define myself by saying I AM AN ASTHMATIC or would I adopt my identity from Christ and instead state, I HAVE HAD ASTHMATIC EPISODES IN MY LIFE. Now you may be thinking, “That’s just semantics, it’s just words, there is no difference whatsoever”. I beg to differ because words are powerful tools for creating realities and the enemy of our soul always seeks to redefine our identity.

a. In Matthew 3:17 God says of Jesus “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.”. However, in Matthew 4:3 the tempter comes to Jesus and says, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of

bread”. Jesus had a choice, tie his identity to what God said about him

or tie it to his ability or behaviour. In the same way, you have a choice, you can define yourself based on who God says you are, or let your health history, your job or your education do it. Expose lies about who you are and reject them as false if they do not line up with God’s definition of you. You are who God says you are.

So let me say this, YOU ARE LOVED.

Nothing is eternal That is the gospel!

I was reminded that nothing lasts forever last week, when two friends experienced a sudden death in their family. The sudden truth is that we aren’t here forever and when the time comes, nothing can stop it.

I never dealt with death very well and I reckon that I am not the only one. Regardless of your religious or spiritual belief, the hard truth of death is the ultimate note that reminds us all, that nothing is permanent _ And it is, in these very dark and lonely moments that we know what is truly important.

The fact of the matter is that we are just passing through this earth. We are not here to stay so why being so serious and so harsh? Do you not know that none of these really matter in the

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

end.

I am, shamelessly, part of the trend. I get all-round-up over the little things in life, I overthink, over complicate everything and anything, and indulge in what shouldn’t be. In a way, it is acceptable, but maybe we also normalize a much more laissezfaire approach. Here are eight ways you can do so.

MAKE AMEND

Why hang up on the past?

Let it go. Whatever caused the resentment, I can assure you, it does not deserve an inch of your energy. Forgive and forget.

STOP BLAMING OTHERS

This is going to be an ongoing self-correcting approach to life.

We too easily blame others because we do not want to take responsibility.

DO NOT GO TO SLEEP ANGRY

As you brush your teeth, reflect on the things that may have upset you. If you need to throw a fit_ do so. But do not take it with you to your bed.

ALLOW YOURSELF TO CRY

Cry when it comes.

Just so you know, big girls and boys too, are allowed to show emotions. I cry at least three times a week

LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY

Normalize saying “I love you”. If you truly do, say it. Whoever the

person is, they will not be there for a very long time.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU

In controversies, ask yourself, how important is it to you? If you can live without it for 48 hours, it can wait.

THE SUN WILL RISE

Even the darkest nights will end and the sun will rise. Take courage that you will, eventually, conquer your most challenging hurdles.

BE NICE TO EVERYONE

It costs nothing, but has a significant impact.

How do you push yourself to stay positive? I am eager to know. Do share on louisedens@gmail. com

Hybrid court will connect hearings in Grand Turk and Provo – comes into effect July 1

Provisions have been made by the Chief Justice to promote synchronicity of court proceedings between Grand Turk and Providenciales to ensure the proper administration of justice.

Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang has approved remote court for Grand Turk indefinitely to ensure timely access to justice for prisoners.

Published in the April 21 Gazette was Practice Direction No. 2 of 2023, which makes special provisions for jury and other trials in the nation’s capital.

Practice Directions set out the procedures to be followed when bringing proceedings before the courts.

The Practice Direction is issued by the Chief Justice in accordance with the Supreme Court Ordinance, and the Court Live Link (Remote

Participation) Ordinance 2020.

It will be in force as of July 1, until it is varied, revoked or suspended, or replaced by the Chief Justice.

The new procedures are made to provide for the conduct of hybrid proceedings in jury trials in Grand Turk allowing for the remote participation of witnesses and counsel from Providenciales.

CONDUCT OF TRIALS

Jury trials in Grand Turk involving accused persons including those remanded or unable to take up an offer of bail, may be held in a hybrid manner: which is partly remote and partly in person.

The Court made up of the judge, jury, court staff, interpreter, counsel present at Grand Turk (if any), prison guard (officer) may sit in person at Grand Turk to conduct the trial.

While witnesses, prosecutors, defence counsel and a court clerk may participate in the trial, remotely from a courtroom in Providenciales.

Attorneys appearing remotely in the trial will be provided with an electronic ‘breakout room’ facility where they may hold private discussions and consultation with defendants during a trial.

Attorneys who wish to use a ‘breakout room’ are instructed to

“We now have to step up ...

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to the benefit of all the communities.

“It will divide the islands into Tourism Improvement Districts (TID) to leverage the unique characteristics of each island”, she added.

She noted that the goal ensures more of the tourism dollar remains in the local, community.

“For the first time, there will be a Tourism Improvement Fund (TIF) which will be spent on building capacity, developing attractions, and creating activities.

“The current Tourist Board model is incapable of doing this.”

LEVERAGING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

As part of its mandate, the DMO will foster strategic relationships with other key organizations within its membership, in an effort to leverage the entrepreneurial spirit of young Turks and Caicos Islanders and support them with marketing, training, funding, and business relationship development.

According to the Tourism Minister, this symbiotic relationship is geared towards delivering new products and services.

She said: “Since the end of the pandemic, these islands have seen a surge in young people

owning their own business, whether it is in tour operating or hair and makeup, or in culinary arts such as catering. The DMO will be an active agent for the marketing of your product to visitors.

“Good products and good services must be promoted.

“Far too long we have left the small man, our young entrepreneurs to fend for themselves, find their own way to market their products.

“That modus operandi will be relegated to the dustbin. With the introduction of the DMO, we will identify local businesses and actively market them as part of our local products and experiences.

“I have been a successful businesswoman for over 40 years, I know the pride and feeling of accomplishment when you own your own business and I want that for every Turks and Caicos Islander in this country and my government likewise.”

Minister Connolly revealed that recent research on market trends conducted by the Government has indicated that while tourism numbers may be high, the amount of money being spent on the island is gradually reducing.

She said: “While my predecessor as Minister of Tourism was focused on looking solely at tourism arrivals as a

write to the Registrar at least fortyeight hours before the trial, to be afforded the facility before the trial, or if not, by applying to the judge for the facility to be provided at any stage of the trial.

All proceedings so conducted shall be valid, as having been conducted in the courtroom in which the trial takes place, the new rules set out.

Special provisions are made for vulnerable witnesses, allowing them to be placed in a Vulnerable Witness Room in Grand Turk or Providenciales, where they will be led in evidence and crossexamination via audio visual link in accordance with sections 12 and

13(1) and (2) of the Vulnerable Witnesses Ordinance 2020.

As it relates to jury deliberations in the hybrid system, the chief justice sets out that the jury will conduct their deliberation from the Jury Room or the Judicial Education Institute office.

Meanwhile, for preliminary hearings and judge-alone trials, a judge may sit in Providenciales and conduct judge-alone trials of a defendant who appears remotely from a courtroom in Grand Turk. A judge may also sit in Providenciales to conduct preliminary hearings of matters impacting on a criminal trial of a defendant who appears remotely from a courtroom in Grand Turk, or from the Prison at Grand Turk, if no courtroom is available.

(DELANA ISLES)

measure of success, the DMO will be focused on the smart targeting of the high-end visitor with higher potential spending per visit.

“My people, the collection and dissemination of crucial data from the Tourist Board has been hampered by outmoded information systems which have raised questions about credibility.

“Upon completion of the assessment, the outcomes will be provided to the Public.”

Coupled with this, the Destination Management Organization will put the necessary mechanisms in place to have on-time data, to bolster the productivity of the sector.

“We all know you cannot build a house on a weak foundation. Contractions will tell you, sometimes it is best to remove the structure, rebuild the foundation and then rebuild the building so that it can last for a lifetime.

“We no longer will be engaging in the practice of marketing in the dark with the hope that visitors will come.

“The DMO will be customerfocused, data-driven marketing to ensure that we continue to hold our place in luxury tourism.

“The Destination Management Organization (DMO) is good for the country, it is good for our people.”

Faye Robinson quietly succumbed to the long term illness that had troubled her for several years, on Saturday April 22, 2023 in her 83rd year.

She will be remembered as a free spirit and courageous explorer, a gifted writer and wonderful chef and hostess; generous, kind, and fiercely loyal.

Faye is survived by four siblings: Raymond, Gaynor, Cathie and David, all of Toronto, Canada, and her TCI family: Sarah, Marilyn, Franklyn and James plus numerous adoring nieces and nephews.

Faye will rejoin her beloved husband Wellington (Robbie) Robinson in paradise. RIP Faye. Service will be announced once final medical procedures are completed.

Faye Robinson

Official MP for TCI in UK parliament under spotlight in latest British inquiry

BY GEMMA HANDY

PERHAPS never before has there been such intense and pervasive scrutiny of the British monarchy’s role in modern society - and the UK’s enduring legacy in the Caribbean.

Some might consider it an opportune time then to reevaluate Britain’s current relationship with its former colonies.

London has rebuffed suggestions that the death of Queen Elizabeth and the impending coronation of King Charles inspired its decision to hold a new inquiry to examine its relations with overseas territories including the TCI.

But with the spotlight firmly on the future of one of Britain’s oldest and most fundamental institutions, few would argue against the expediency of renewed reflection.

London announced last week that it was to probe the constitutional arrangements of the OTs, and whether the relationship it retains with them is “satisfactory and appropriate” in the 21st century.

So, with no dedicated MP in the UK parliament - and OT citizens denied the opportunity to vote in British general elections - do territories like TCI have a strong enough voice to represent their interests?

That’s one of the questions London will be seeking to answer, a spokeswoman confirmed to the Weekly News.

Three years ago, British politicians launched a failed attempt to secure six elected MPs

to act for the overseas territories in the UK Parliament. And at least one of those campaigners is hoping that the new inquiry will result in OT citizens having the same rights to vote for an MP in London as their British counterparts.

Former Guernsey parliamentarian Anthony Webber – a member of the pressure group Electoral Reform Society –previously told the Weekly News that the OTs were "disenfranchised” by the absence of an MP to speak on their behalf, claiming the UK treated them like “17th-century colonies”.

This week, Webber reiterated that stance, saying London needed to make it a “priority”.

He went further still, adding: “I would also propose OT citizens serving in the House of Lords and Privy Council where there is also no representation.”

Britain is calling for local residents and officials in all of the OTs to send submissions on six questions ranging from how legislation is created to whether the rights of OT citizens are effectively protected.

Webber says the Covid pandemic stymied previous efforts to secure greater voting rights for citizens of the OTs along with Crown dependencies (CDs) like Guernsey.

“The citizens of the OTs and CDs have no representation in the UK national parliament which is their supreme sovereign parliament. The right of the governments of the OTs and CDs to make representations to the UK

government has always been there and is a different issue.

“But the OTs and CDs still have no MPs to represent them … This can only be rectified by the UK parliament itself giving the citizens of OTs and CDs the right to vote for Westminster MPs,” he explains.

Previous calls for such a move have had the backing of members from all three of Britain’s main political parties.

One suggestion made in the 2020 campaign was for six constituencies to be created for the OTs - and three for the Crown dependencies - with TCI, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands each having one dedicated MP.

Webber also wants to see a legal amendment to enable OT citizens to register as overseas electors, allowing them to vote in British general elections in the same way British citizens living in the OTs can.

“So easy to do and resolves an equal rights issue,” he adds.

Leading the latest probe is the Commons-appointed Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee whose role is to examine constitutional issues, and the quality and standards of administration provided by civil service departments, among other things.

The body agreed to take on the probe into the OTs at a meeting earlier this month.

“This is an area that has not been considered from a constitutional perspective by a Commons committee,” the spokeswoman said.

She was keen to assure the TCI public that there are no similarities with the inquiry that led to the 2008 Commission of Inquiry into government corruption.

And she added: The upcoming coronation of the new monarch has not been a consideration in launching this inquiry.”

In announcing the probe on April 20, committee chair William Wragg MP described the OTs as “an important part of the UK family”.

He acknowledged that with no official representation in the UK parliament, their constitutional arrangements with London “are often misunderstood or overlooked”.

Anyone wishing to send submissions has until September 4 to do so. Submissions will be reviewed and published on the committee’s website.

The committee will then hold a series of public oral evidence sessions with witnesses with expertise in the relevant subject, which the public can watch live online at Parliamentlive.tv. Committee inquiries typically wrap up with conclusions and recommendations published in a report to which the British government has 60 days to respond.

Visit https://committees. parliament.uk/call-forevidence/3109 to make a submission or for more details.

TCHTA elects new board of diverse tourism professionals

Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) welcomes a new board of directors for the 2023-2025 term with Beaches Resort’s James McAnally as president.

Immediate past president Trevor Musgrove will ascend to the seat of Chairman along with his predecessor, Todd Foss.

The ballot count also saw several other members of the TCHTA Board being elected.

The voting was part of the association’s annual general meeting and bi-annual board of directors’ elections hosted at the Salvation Army Brighter Futures

Centre in Providenciales on April 21.

McAnally expressed his gratitude for the confidence placed in him and his new team; pledging to work closely with the members and stakeholders of the association to promote the interests and protection of the tourism industry of the TCI.

Other elected members of the board are Tendra Musgrove (COMO Parrot Cay) as vice president; Nello Lambert (TCI Distributors) as secretary and Chamber of Commerce representative; Colin Sterling (CSC Insurance) as treasurer; and

Lindy Rigby (West Bay Club); Aleisa Walkin (Beach House); Stacey-Ann Wharton (Sailrock Resort); Robin Janse (Seven Stars Resort); Adam Twigg (The Source, Ltd.); Snjezana Andrews (Clearwater Capital); and Greg Blee (Blee Halligan Architects) as directors.

Appointed and ex-officio members were also added to the board, namely: Karen Whitt (The Hartling Group); Vinod Bajaj (Turks & Caicos Collection); Nikheel Advani (Grace Bay Resorts) as Directors; and Marie McKenzie (Carnival Corporation & PLC) as an ex-officio member.

During the AGM, Musgrove and the TCHTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Stacy Cox provided reports, highlighting the work of the association during 2022, including its work in advocacy, education, marketing, and sustainable tourism.

Musgrove shared the organisation’s work in advocacy, highlighting its close collaboration with the government and the tourism ministry through the significant changes and occurrences faced by the destination last year.

Cox shared key points on the accomplishments of the

TCHTA’s various sub-committees, recognising the contribution of the members, board of directors, and staff in promoting the growth and development of the tourism sector in TCI.

Both Cox and Musgrove endorsed the territory’s move to a Destination Marketing and Management Organization (DMMO) and shared the government’s transparency and inclusive approach throughout the consultancy and planning stages. Updates were delivered by the organisation’s finance committee co-chair, Aisha Laporte, and its marketing chair, Karen Whitt.

Conservative Party MP William Wragg described the OTs as “an important part of the UK family” (Photo courtesy Wikipedia)

CARICOM declares war on guns –

TCI government in solidarity

with

the declaration

on

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government, led by Premier Hon C. Washington Misick has aligned itself with the recent declaration of “war” made by CARICOM Heads of Governments’ on the proliferation of illegal guns and gang-related crime in the Caribbean.

On Tuesday, April 18, 2023, the Heads of Government of CARICOM met for a Regional Symposium in Trinidad and Tobago to discuss crime and violence in the Caribbean, fuelled by illegal guns and organized criminal gangs.

In a statement issued on Friday, April 21, The TCI government said although leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands were not able to attend the meeting due to “pressing domestic duties”, it is in agreement with the declarations made to address the pervasive issue of gunrelated violence in the region.

WAR ON GUNS

Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) registered grave concern at the increase in the illegal exportation of guns from the United States of America which is a direct threat to democracy.

CARICOM declared War on Guns to combat the illegal trade which provides the weapons that contribute significantly to crime and violence in the Region causing “death, disabilities and compromising the safety of our citizens”.

In a post-meeting communique, CARICOM leaders said: “We call on the United States of America to join the Caribbean in our War on Guns and urgently adopt and take action to stop the illegal exportation of firearms and ammunition into the Caribbean.

“We lament the disproportionate

crime and violence

share of our national budgets that we are compelled to allocate to measures to address crime, violence and national security as well as mental health and other health-related challenges, that directly result from the illegal exportation of guns to our region.

“We underscore our commitment to utilizing all human, financial and other resources to rid our Region of the scourge of illicit weapons. “We reiterate that the Caribbean must be a Zone of Peace, which will allow us to achieve our goal of a secure, stable and prosperous Community for all our citizens.”

CRIME AND VIOLENCE DECLARATION

The Heads of Government of CARICOM said the epidemic of crime and violence in the Caribbean, fuelled by illegal guns and organised criminal gangs is a “threat to the democracy and the stability of societies” within the region.

CARICOM said it is: “Cognizant of its cost to our social, economic and health systems.

“Determined to ensure that our people of the Caribbean can exist in an environment of peace and safety.” CARICOM said it is aware of the urgent need to reverse the normalisation of violence in social interaction and to restore the bonds of social solidarity.

The regional body stressed that is convinced that the multi-faceted nature of violent crime and its pervasive effects requires a robust regional response that includes a public health approach, which is an all of society's strategies including family, church, academia, cultural and sports personalities, minority political parties and wider civil society.

The Heads of Government's further acknowledged and

registered the concerns of the people of the Region, that there is a “tilting of the balance between the rights of the individual and the public safety interests of the whole of society, which is having a debilitating effect on the rights of the community to live in peaceful societies, particularly given the trend for persons on murder charges to be granted bail”.

CARICOM underscored its deep concern at the high rate of illegal exportation of guns from the United States of America to the Caribbean Region; and recalled the Region’s “strong and enduring investments” to support the United States in its ‘War on Drugs’.

CARICOM said: “Given our observation that the gun has become the new drug, as articulated in our separate 18 April 2023 Declaration, we call on the United States of America to reciprocate and join the Caribbean in its ‘War on Guns’.”

PLAN OF ACTION

In a bid to reverse the worrying trends of crime and gun-related violence which is gnawing at the fabric of Caribbean societies, CARICOM Heads of Government's’ agreed to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of the criminal justice systems in the region to address criminal terrorists with a focus on proactive management of prosecutions, sentencing and the diversion of young people at risk.

In this vein, CARICOM has promised to: “Strengthen regional forensic capabilities and collaboration among national forensic agencies with a view to improving the quality of evidence and speed the conduct of trials;

“Prepare regional model legislation to bring greater harmonisation and efficiency to the development and revision of national laws; Immediately and effectively implement the CARICOM Arrest Warrant

Treaty; Augment the jurisdiction of magistrates, the consideration of defendants’ options to judgeonly trials, and the intra-regional rotation of judges and magistrates to admit or foster their greater exposure.”

The regional body has also committed to strengthening the capacity of the Regional Intelligence Fusion Centre (RIFC) to deliver its mandate through development of agreed protocols for data sharing amongst Member States.

CARICOM has also agreed to reform education systems to empower citizens and better enable their socio-emotional development of children across the region.

“The social and emotional learning of the child is as important as technical and academic achievements.”

CARICOM has also agreed to ban assault weapons in the region, except for security forces and sporting competitions.

Regional Leaders at the CARICOM Regional Symposium in Trinidad and Tobago

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Disappearing little by little in their own time

A reader, an e-mail and visit to Provo of the early 1990s

“Oh, about that”, said the noticeably sun burnt British property manager as she showed me my second apartment on Providenciales back in April of 1990, “there is actually no lease, and I am afraid the previous tenant walked off with the only key we had. But not to worry, just remember to close the screen doors to keep the mozzies out”. And with that she climbed into her Volvo, wished me a good weekend and before leaving added “we have a few people coming over tomorrow - do join us”. It was a Friday afternoon and I had just rented my first apartment from Lynette Simpson, owner of Elliot Holdings Ltd.

No doubt quite a few Provo old timers will remember Lynn Simpson, who, at a time when accommodation on the island consisted of a few low-key hotels, looked after more homes and tourist beds than anyone.

This was the Provo of Dora’s Restaurant, Henry’s Roadrunner, Fast Eddie’s, Pub on the Bay, Hey Jose, Gilley’s at Leeward, and where the Leeward Highway was a partially paved, single carriageway upon which everyone drove rather ordinary, and hopefully robust,

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.

cars. It was the Provo of Le Deck, The Erebus, Island Princess, BWI and Butterfield’s supermarket, the Carib West liquor store, The Bamboo Gallery, The Banana Boat, Charles Air, TCNA, Band Night on Thursdays and the Miss Turks & Caicos Beauty Pageants in an airport hangar. Island homes were generally modest affairs where air conditioners were a rarity and security systems unheard of. To readers new to Providenciales the earlier quote, “close the screen doors to keep the mozzies out”, most probably gives you a hint. There was, you may have guessed, no crime to speak of.

Why have I gone down memory lane to the Provo of old? The answer can be found in an email which I received shortly after my ‘come back’ column was published two weeks ago. The title of the

email: “Thank you for returning to your writing”, sent to me by Bob Pratt. Newcomers to Provo and/ or the TCI may not know of Bob, but you may have heard of Bob’s Bar off Venetian Drive - well, that’s him. The last time I chatted with Bob was in December 2020, having not seen him for almost nine years. You couldn’t describe us as close friends in the 1990s but of course we all knew one another back then.

Still, his email, which came totally out of the blue, wasn’t just touching but made me reflect on those early days in Provo when life was less rushed, less frenetic, and so much simpler or as they would say today, analogue.

In his email, other than expressing his delight over my return to writing, Bob went on to say, “Please consider me a

resource should you ever wish to confirm some facts about goings on in TCI, that you may think I could help you with. I arrived to assist with the Third Turtle Inn and other Provident Ltd. matters in 1978. Later assisted CRJ Skatfeld in opening his Law Firm and Corporate services in January of 1982 until his untimely death, in December 1992. I am still involved in one or two businesses, although retired now. South Side Marina was sold on to others, although I live on my boat here to this day.

I arrived at the South Side Marina site by boat and started to build it in 1994. It is appropriate that I will eventually leave by boat also. I would be delighted to assist you”.

I am uncertain how old Bob is now. Looking at an old photograph of him taken at an art exhibition

held at The Bamboo Gallery in the early 1990s, it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s begun his seventh decade. Time and tide wait for no man. For now, though, I shall take Bob and all those readers who have kindly written to me by their word. Thank you all for your continued encouragement and please keep those ideas and suggestions coming; and this week especially, thank you Bob!

One of my all-time favourite novels, “Love on the Time of Cholera” by Colombian novelist Gabriel García Márquez, has a wonderful line dealing with the passage of time. As I reminisced about Providenciales and the changes we have witnessed there over the many intervening years, this particular verse from this masterful work of literature came to mind: “They were people whose lives were slow, who did not see themselves growing old, or falling sick, or dying, but who disappeared little by little in their own time, turning into memories, mists from other days, until they were absorbed into oblivion”. Here’s to the making of memories and having the gift of time to share them.

Gilley’s at Leeward, a popular water hole and restaurant in Providenciales, in the 1990s. (Painting: Dwight Outten)

A slightly younger Titus, pictured in the early 1990s, at The Market Place, Providenciales; a noticeably rudimentary Leeward Highway in the background. (Photo: Denise de Boer)

Bob Pratt (right) pictured with Sharon Shafer (formerly of The Windmills Plantation - Salt Cay), at the Bamboo Gallery, in 1993. (Photo: Denise de Boer)

DMO “progressive and inclusive”

BY DELANA ISLES

The Turks and Caicos Islands’ Destination Marketing and Management Organization (DMO) is taking shape, and this week the government shared with the public more information about the makeup and financing of the publicprivate venture.

To accommodate this, the Premier, Hon Charles W. Misick along with the minister of tourism hosted an event at The Shore Club. In attendance were officials of the new DMO, and members of the public.

The DMO will have a board of directors, with an executive management, which will be accountable to that board, the Premier outlined.

A marketing department will be put in place to deal with sales, tourism intelligence, tourism linkages between destinations and strategic partnerships.

There will also be a destination development department providing business support services and training, film commission, destination and product development.

Misick said product development could be any range of things, from sports tourism to medical tourism. A niche he said that needs to be driven by a dedicated board.

All the islands will be targeted for development, the Premier said.

“What you will see is that no longer will this be just an organization that is mainly

– Premier says it’s better than the Tourist Board’s 17

focused on what is happening in Providenciales organically. It’ll be a deliberate effort to include all the other islands.”

As such there will be tourism improvement district representatives on each island, making it a “truly national effort”, Misick stated.

The operations and finance department within the DMO – as outlined in the Premier’s presentation – will deal with the operation of the funds.

A quality assurance department will form the final arm of the organization, ensuring an online one-stop shop coordinating with different ministries and compliance with tourism-related regulations.

The quality assurance department will also ensure the development and certification of voluntary tourism standards, as well as technical assistance, business workers training and code of practice.

They will also ensure certification, control and monitoring of voluntary standards.

The premier said the regulatory standards must be high, and this is where the government remains in control.

STAFFING

Meanwhile, sixteen people –equally divided - from both the private and public sector make up the board of directors.

PPID administrative staff complete retooling training

The Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development recently hosted a one-day retooling training workship for its Administrative Officers under the theme, “We are ONE team and we ROCK, Not just an Admin”.

The training session was held on April 13, 2023, in the Conference Room at the Ministry of Finance in Providenciales, which provided an opportunity for staff to be taken out of their normal working environment to be recharged and re-energized.

The training was facilitated by Ms. Carmaine Ariza, Applications Support Officer/TCIG and Mrs. Melanie Smith, CEO of Talent Recruitment Group.

The main objective of the exercise was to assess the team’s

performance over the previous financial year as well as identify and discuss a number of SmartStream do’s and don’ts.

The Minstry said in a statement that the session, also presented an opportunity for a number of team building, communication and deportment exercises as well as sharing of keys to on the job success.

The opening was attended by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, Deputy PS Mrs. Bridgette Newman, Financial Manager Ms. Shandera Hall and Head of Secretariat Ms. Shanetta Thompson.

Minister for Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Jamell Robinson, attended the closing ceremony and gave

be supported by temporary and standing subcommittees to drive specific activities of the DMO. The subcommittees will involve working groups of five to six people from the board, DMO management staff and external tourism professionals and subject matter experts as needed.

The subcommittees will be in the areas of marketing, finance, tourism development and mobility.

The Premier then addressed the elephant in the room – the view of many that the government has taken away the jobs of the tourist board staff.

we will be employing at least 50 people.”

He urged: “So tell me if this is not a progressive idea, and this is not focused on inclusiveness. The evidence speaks for itself.”

FINANCING

The DMO financial model is based on three main sources of revenue.

The premier said for the longterm sustainability of the DMO and the importance of the private sector in the decision-making process, the financial model is based on the cofinancing of the annual budget by both the public and private tourism stakeholders.

The eight private sector representatives will be from the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), the Taxi Association, Chamber of Commerce, Restaurant Association, and four regional DMO leaders for all the islands.

The public sector will be represented on the board by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning; Ministry of Finance; TCI Airport Authority; Invest Turks and Caicos; Ministry of Immigration and border services; TCI National Trust and the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources.

The board of directors will

Pointing to the DMO’s organizational staff make-up, illustrated on a powerpoint presentation, Misick said the graph paints a “completely different story” than what is being peddled in the public domain.

He referred to the 17 staff members of the tourist board being dismissed, given a remuneration package and invited to apply to the DMO, stressing that they were not made redundant.

He stated that in four years the organization will be employing 47 people, a 30% uplift from what previously obtained.

He added that within the tourism regulatory authority, they estimate another 20 people will be employed.

“So, in the next four years, within that public framework,

He said the generation of revenue through DMO activities will be an important source of income.

Misick said the territory will go from normal growth to exceptional performance in the tourism industry.

The increased wealth is estimated at $640m – a sum that considers direct, indirect and induced economic impacts compared to business as per usual without the DMO.

Out of that $640m, the direct economic impact on hotels and restaurants will be $467m, and a $173m of indirect and induced economic impact, Misick said.

As outlined in the Premier’s presentation, these additional revenues from the tourism industry will stimulate new investments, job opportunities and a better quality of life for residents.

brief remarks before handing out the certificates to participants, while PS Wilson presented all participants with tokens of appreciation.

Commenting on the training, Minister Robinson noted, “I am thankful and appreciative to the

Ministry staff for organizing such a timely and important training session.

“The administrative role is one of the most important roles within the Ministry of PPID which focus on the efficient operations of the departments to help improve

positive results.”

The training was designed to be informative, engaging and interactive to encourage staff to build upon existing and new knowledge in an effort to positively impact the Ministry’s day to day operations.

Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development administrative staff and facilitators at the training workshop

Premier Washington Misick

HMP now a temporary ‘donkey hospital’ for four injured animals

Inmates, prison staff and community volunteers have banded together to treat and care for four badly injured donkeys on Grand Turk.

The nation’s capital is known for its free-roaming donkeys, an attraction for those visiting the island. But it is not always safe for these four-legged residents, who can get injured quite easily while roaming about uneven terrain, inhibiting their ability to find food or a safe place to recuperate.

Last week, the Department of Agriculture came together with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to take care of four badly injured donkeys in need of specific care and a safe place to live while they recover.

All four donkeys had items stuck on their hoofs or over their ankles, causing serious mobility

issues, and impacting their ability to feed and move around to find food.

Providing an update on the initiative of care taken was Prison Superintendent Michael Woodbine.

Woodbine related that he had read about the donkey population on Grand Turk before taking up his post and had already been thinking of a role the prison can play in caring for and looking after donkeys, especially if injured or unwell.

“So, the setting up of what we are calling, ‘our donkey Hospital’ is incredibly pleasing to see,” the prison boss said.

The prison farm is a wonderful facility, and the team of farm staff and workers provide excellent care for the livestock living there.

He said the farm already sells eggs and vegetables to members of

the community, and this is another example of the facility supporting the local community and good local causes.

“Helping to look after ill and injured donkeys is absolutely the right thing for us to be doing. Not only is this good for the donkeys, but it’s great for the people that work on the farm and live in the wider prison.

“Developing a sense of empathy and building bonds with animals is well documented in supporting

changes in people’s moods, outlook and behaviour.”

The superintendent believes that having the donkeys at the facility, in need of care and help, offers offenders a different perspective on building bonds, which is likely better than many have previously experienced.

“Once settled in, we saw community volunteers, some of our prisoners, staff and prison managers working with Dr Bent in capturing and treating the donkeys in our care.

“It was great to see how many people wanted to help and get involved. I truly believe the donkeys themselves have realised

we are here to help them, and they are starting to interact with the team.”

Woodbine has bigger plans for his charges, teaching them a useful and much-needed skill, especially in the nation’s capital. He said in addition to the soft skills this initiative brings; they are also looking to train the prisoners in donkey husbandry.

“Such as caring for donkey’s fur, knowing what to feed them and farrier skills to ensure their hoofs are well maintained.

“These will be transferable skills, which we hope will help prisoners prepare for life after custody.”

Haitian migrant vessel intercepted at

with 240 onboard

The number of migrants illegally attempting entry into the Turks and Caicos Islands is steadily rising, with just 240 arrested this week.

For 2023, marine officials have detained 1,699 people during 13 interceptions of illegal vessels.

The latest interception was on Tuesday, April 25. Police report that marine branch officers were dispatched in the early morning hours after receiving reports from the Coastal Radar Station of a

vessel heading towards the western shores of Providenciales.

At around 4:30 am, the officers, intercepted a 45ft wooden vessel, powered by twin outboard engines transporting illegal Haitian migrants.

The migrant vessel was found carrying a total of 49 women, 191 men and two minors.

The illegal migrants were handed over to the Immigration Task Force for processing and

repatriation.

The public is reminded to notify the closest police station or contact Crime Stoppers and give any information on illegal activity anonymously.

All Crime Stoppers calls are answered in Miami and Houston by Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers, a non-profit agency.

The calls are anonymous and cannot be traced in the United States or the TCI.

King has been slapped with three charges after being stopped by police for driving dangerously along the Highway in Long Bay this week.

King, a resident of Grand Turk was arrested on Sunday, April 23, around 5:30pm in

Long Bay by officers of the Royal TCI Police Force. He has been charged with assaulting a police officer, dangerous driving and resisting arrest.

He is expected to appear before a Magistrate on May 2 to answer the charges.

Thirty-year-old Xavier Denzell

Xavier Denzell King

A sloop carrying more than 200 migrants was detained by marine officials this week (RTCIPF photo)

sea

Injured donkeys in Grand Turk get help from prisoners (TCIG photo)

TCI visited by NOAA and US Air Force team on Hurricane Awareness Tour

BY DELANA ISLES

After a three-year hiatus due to Covid-19, the TCI welcomed back the Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour which is aimed at increasing awareness and preparedness for the upcoming hurricane season.

Members from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Air Force Reserve and Hurricane Hunter crew landed at the Providenciales International Airport on Friday, April 21.

They were greeted by several school children, Acting Governor HE Anya Williams, Deputy Premier, ministers of government, members of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergency (DDME), TCI Red Cross as well as TCI Airport Authority personnel.

National Hurricane Center (NHC) Acting Director Jamie Rhome, along with several hurricane specialists, joined local officials, visiting students and teachers for a brief opening ceremony, discussing hurricane preparedness, resilience and how the TCI can become ‘weather ready’.

Students were given tours of the Air Force’s ‘Hurricane Hunter’ aircraft with demonstrations on how scientists collect data about hurricanes.

In his remarks, Acting Director

Rhome stressed the need for preparedness, pointing to hurricane Fiona as a prime example of the capricious nature of hurricanes.

He urged: “Think about the things that aren’t routine, think about prescription medication, making sure you’re up to date as it can be hard to get that during and after a crisis.

“Often people assume… that you’re going to see these things march across the ocean and you’re going to have days to get ready, but Fiona is the real example I need you to prepare for – storms that rapidly intensify on your doorstep, in your backyard leaving you little time to react.”

Hurricane Fiona was a large, powerful, and destructive Category 4 Atlantic hurricane that formed on September 14, 2022. It made landfall in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Grand Turk and Canada.

Fiona was responsible for seven direct deaths – two each in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Canada, and one in Guadeloupe.

Fiona produced over US$3.09 billion in combined damage across the Caribbean and in Canada, according to the Global Catastrophe Recap produced by Aon. In Puerto Rico alone, the National Centres for Environmental Information estimates that Fiona caused US$2.5 billion in damage, making it the third costliest hurricane on record

National

for that island, after Maria (2017) and Georges (1998). According to estimates from Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. (CatIQ), Fiona is the costliest extreme weather event on record in Atlantic Canada with about CAD$800 million in insured losses.

It was the sixth named storm, third hurricane and first major hurricane of the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season.

Rhome emphasised that this is why people need to start preparing now: “Because increasingly

that’s how hurricanes manifest themselves, it’s through this sudden, quick intensification leaving people sometimes a day, even less to prepare.”

“So no longer can we wait to prepare for the storm to actually approach.”

He urged residents to ignore the news of El Niño as it will not stop hurricanes from forming.

El Niño is forecast to return in 2023 and it could set a new temperature record, pushing the world past a new average

temperature record. The global weather phenomenon refers to when waters in the Pacific Ocean become much warmer than usual.

“I can assure you hurricanes can and will form this season. We don’t know yet where they will go or who they might threaten but El Niño will not stop hurricanes from forming and will not stop them from threatening communities.

“So, please do not fall victim to letting your guard down because of a possible El Niño this hurricane season,” Rhome emphasised.

Female teen shot in Five Cays – Police launche investigation

A female teenager is currently nursing a gunshot wound, following a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, April 26 in Five Cays, Providenciales.

Crime sleuths are actively investigating the shooting of a young woman around 9.:47 pm yesterday, (April 26th), Command Centre received a call from the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre stating that a female victim was brought into the facility with a gunshot wound, according to a statement from the Police.

The Police explained that while the young woman sustained serious injuries, they are not life-threatening.

“Based on preliminary inquiries, the 15-year-old female, and a friend were driving into Five Cays, Providenciales, in the vicinity of the roundabout, when a vehicle pulled alongside and started shooting at them.

“The victim was rushed to the hospital and treated.

The motive for the attack is still being established, and one hypothesis is that this relates to a road traffic altercation involving

both vehicles shortly before the incident.

Investigations are continuing by our Serious Crime Team,” the Police stated.

The public is being advised to notify the closest police station or to contact Crime Stoppers and give any information relating to this incident or any illegal activity anonymously.

Residents are reminded that Crime Stoppers Miami is a nonprofit and not a police agency. The calls are anonymous and cannot be traced in the United States or the TCI.

The US Air Force Reserve Command’s WC-130J “Hurricane Hunter” aircraft Students joined officials in welcoming the Hurricane Hunter team last Friday (DDME photo)

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Air Force Reserve recently visited TCI as part of their Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour (DDME photo)

Regional News

Inquiry into UK’s relationship with Overseas Territories opens

THE people of Bermuda have been asked to give their views on the island’s relationship with Britain as part of a House of Commons inquiry into the constitutional arrangements of the UK’s dealings with Overseas Territories.

The inquiry, entitled “The Status of the UK’s Overseas Territories in the 21st century”, will assess whether the relationship is “satisfactory and appropriate” for the modern age.

A spokesman for the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee of MPs, which is conducting the inquiry, said: “While ten of the UK’s Overseas Territories are self-governing, the UK is responsible for their defence and foreign relations.

“The interaction between the Overseas Territories and the UK Parliament and Government was brought to attention during the passage of the Sanctions and Money Laundering Act 2018, where the unusual step was taken to extend the Act to cover their jurisdictions.

“The committee is seeking evidence on how the UK Parliament and the Civil Service engages with the Overseas Territories and across different government departments; how their interests are represented

in UK Parliament; and how the rights of British overseas citizens are protected.”

The committee has asked people living in the Overseas Territories to make written submissions.

William Wragg, the chairman

of the committee, said that there was no “one size fits all” blueprint for Britain’s relationship with individual territories.

He said: “The UK Overseas Territories are an important part of the UK family.

Haiti crisis: Mob burns suspected gang members to death

A group of 13 suspected gang members has been beaten and burned to death by a mob in Haiti’s capital after being seized while police were searching their vehicle.

The suspects were reportedly beaten with gasoline-soaked tyres before being set alight in Port-auPrince on Monday.

Police say they confiscated weapons from them just before the incident.

They have not explained how members of the public got hold of the suspects.

Haiti has descended into increasing lawlessness since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.

The United Nations said in a report published on Monday that insecurity in the capital has reached levels similar to countries at war.

Armed gangs continue to compete to expand their territorial control and that clashes with police and rival gangs have “become more violent and more frequent,” claiming many civilian lives, it added.

Gang violence led to the death of nearly 70 people, including 18 women and two children, between

14 and 19 April alone, according to the UN.

Many schools and health centres have been forced to close and the violence has also affected access to many goods and services.

“The people of Haiti continue to suffer one of the worst human rights crises in decades and a major humanitarian emergency,” the report reads.

“With ten territories permanently inhabited by British nationals and all 14 represented at the international level by the UK, we cannot deny their unique constitutional position.

“Each territory has its own legislative processes and bespoke relationship with the UK, but with no official representation in UK Parliament, these constitutional arrangements are often misunderstood or overlooked.

“We recognise that there is no ‘one size fits all’ framework for relations between the UK and the Overseas Territories, but by better understanding how existing arrangements operate in practice, we can better assess whether they are satisfactory and appropriate in the 21st century.”

David Burt sparked controversy last year when it was announced in the Throne Speech in November that the Government had commissioned a $50,000 report into the practicalities of selfgovernance for the island.

An opinion poll this year found

that 83 per cent of people rejected independence for Bermuda.

The committee spokesman said that the inquiry would look into:

“What is the UK Government’s relationship with the Overseas Territories?

“What is the UK Parliament’s relationship with the Overseas Territories?

“How is legislation made in the Overseas Territories and what role does the UK Government and UK Parliament have in these processes?

“Are effective mechanisms in place for the interests of the Overseas Territories to be represented internationally?

“Are the rights and interests of British overseas citizens effectively protected by the current constitutional arrangements?”

People wishing to make written submissions to the parliamentary inquiry have until 5pm on September 4 to do so at committees.parliament.uk/callfor-evidence/3109. (RoyalGazette. com)

UK comms giant proposes move to Bermuda

THE parent company of Liberty Global, the UK communications giant, is proposing to redomicile to the island.

plc, by changing its jurisdiction of incorporation to Bermuda.

Since Moïse’s assassination, the Caribbean nation has been led by Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has failed to rein in the gangs that now control an estimated 60% of the capital.

Mr Henry and UN officials have repeatedly called for the deployment of an international force to help police in their fight against the criminal gangs.

A preliminary proxy statement has been filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, necessary because the company is listed on Nasdaq, by Michael T Fries, president and chief executive officer of Liberty Global plc.

Addressing the company’s shareholders, he wrote: “We are proposing to redomicile our parent company, Liberty Global

“Today, we are incorporated as an England and Wales company, listed on Nasdaq, and as a result there are cumbersome administrative processes. The proposed transaction will have no change to our listing on Nasdaq, our day-to-day operations or the tax residence of our operating companies...”

He added: “The principal objective of the change in jurisdiction of incorporation is

Chair of the House of Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee William Wragg

A police officer stands guard near a site where alleged gang members were set on fire by a crowd of people in Port-au-Prince

President and chief executive officer of Liberty Global plc, Michael T Fries.

Bahamas beats $18.7m Suriname CLICO claim

CLICO (Bahamas) has beaten back an $18.734m claim from its Suriname affiliate with the Chief Justice slamming transactions that disguised loans as insurance policies as “a farce”.

Sir Ian Winder, in an April 24, 2023, ruling dismissed efforts by CLICO Life Insurance Company Suriname to overturn rejection of its claim by Craig A. (Tony) Gomez, the insolvent Bahamian insurer’s liquidator, as three of the disputed annuity policies were assigned to “fictitious individuals” were obviously not genuine policyholders.

The verdict will provide a boost for CLICO (Bahamas) longsuffering local policyholders and creditors, as it confirms that the Suriname affiliate ranks below them in the creditors queue. It means that Bahamian creditors will enjoy whatever Mr Gomez is able to recover from the insolvent life and health insurer’s windingup before Suriname’s large claim, which Sir Ian ruled should be treated as unsecured loans and rank near the bottom of all creditors.

This newspaper understands that the Chief Justice’s decision will also likely set a precedent over similar claims by CLICO’s Guyana affiliate, which was also seeking to recover funds from the Bahamian liquidation. Together with Suriname, these recovery claims are understood to collectively total $54m, but they have now been pushed down below Bahamian creditors who will take precedence and priority over them.

Finding for Mr Gomez, the Baker Tilly Gomez accountant and partner, on virtually all matters, the Chief Justice also shed light on questionable transactions during the run-up to CLICO (Bahamas) collapse into insolvency which occurred more than 14 years ago in February 2009. The life and health insurer’s failure deprived hundreds of Bahamians of their

life and retirement savings, with the Government subsequently stepping into begin making many whole again.

Sir Ian also ruled that “the masking of the loans” from Suriname as insurance policies aided CLICO (Bahamas) in multiple ways for, while the latter’s 2006 financial statements recorded it had borrowed more than $5m from its affiliate this had resulted in just $27,516 of liabilities because there was no bona fide assured person.

The dealings between The Bahamas and Suriname began on November 26, 2004, when the latter paid $27,171 to acquire an Executive Flexible Single Premium Annuity (EFPA) from CLICO (Bahamas). While the insured was listed as a 44 yearold male, the name on the policy issued by CLICO (Bahamas) was CLICO Suriname.

This was followed by a further $3m investment in another EFPA annuity by CLICO Suriname on April 19, 2005, with the payment handled offshore via CLICO (Bahamas) account at Ocean Bank

in Fort Lauderdale. “On April 25, 2005, Karen-Ann Gardier, the thenchief operating officer of CLICO Bahamas, sent an e-mail to Deloris Moncur and Kimberley Munroe confirming that CLICO (Bahamas) had received $3m from CLICO Suriname,” Sir Ian recorded.

The funds were invested in an EFPA annuity carrying an annual interest rate of 9 percent. However, while the insured was described as a 45 year-old male, the name on the second policy as the insured was once again CLICO Suriname. A third such transaction for another EFPA annuity policy, this time for $1m, was carried out on September 21, 2005, via the same payment route and modus operandi - for a 45 year-old made, with the name on the policy that of Suriname. Additional payments worth a further $8.8m were made on the latter policy between November 15, 2005, and May 30, 2008, ranging in size from $13,354 to $1.2m. Further transfers of $1.5m and $750,000 were sent to CLICO (Bahamas) from the Suriname affiliate in September 2008 just months before the life and health

insurer’s ultimate group parent, Trinidad-based CL Financial, collapsed. The second payment was described as a two-year loan.

Mr Gomez rejected Suriname’s claim for $18.734m in CLICO (Bahamas) liquidation, and Sir Ian found that all three EFPA annuities named the policyholder as “an inanimate corporate entity” even though all referred to middle-aged males. Suriname, though, sought to argue it was a policyholder - a status that would place it on the same level as Bahamian policyholders, and thus reduce the latter’s recovery, if the Supreme Court found for it.

The Insurance Act ranks policyholders as “first priority” in a liquidation, which means their claims come first after the costs and expenses of a corporate windingup are paid. They also rank behind the Government and outstanding taxes. Mr Gomez and CLICO (Bahamas), though, dismissed Suriname’s claim and argued that it was not a valid policyholder and the EFPAs were not true insurance policies.

Sir Ian, in his verdict, said he was “satisfied” that the three disputed EFPA policies “are not true policies of insurance”. He added: “It should be enough to simply state that an annuity based upon the life of a fictitious individual who is clearly not the policyholder is not an insurance policy within the meaning of the Insurance Act.”

While Damian Gomez KC, the former minister of state for legal affairs representing Suriname, argued that CLICO (Bahamas) was acting as a constructive trustee of the $9.8m paid out over the third disputed policy. But Sir Ian, while accepting that CLICO (Bahamas) entered into the transactions in violation of Bahamian exchange control regulations, dismissed this claim.

“On the facts of this case, as it

UK comms giant proposes move to Bermuda

to facilitate shareholder value creation by aligning the US style corporate law of Bermuda with our listing on Nasdaq and the expectations of our largely US shareholder base.

“Key components of our strategy to create shareholder value may include, among others, financing, cross-border M&A and investments, share buybacks, selftender offers, spin-offs and split-

offs, all of which are easier to execute as a Bermuda company.

“The transaction is not tax driven. Our revenue and income remains European based and our subsidiaries’ tax residence will not be changing.”

He added that the change in jurisdiction will have no impact on the company’s dayto-day operations, customer services or products, financing,

management, board of directors or employee base. The redomiciliation will be effected pursuant to a scheme of arrangement under English law and will be subject to approval by Liberty Global’s shareholders and the High Court of Justice of England and Wales.

Mr Fries wrote: “As an overview, we will hold separate UK court meetings for each of

related to the third disputed policy and the additional funds paid into that policy, the specific purpose was a farce being an annuity based on a fictitious annuitant,” the Chief Justice ruled. “I have determined that the funds are not properly monies being paid into a policy of insurance, are not held on trust and were not paid under any mistake.”

Mr Gomez and CLICO (Bahamas), in their evidence, asserted that the transactions were “a facade” designed to disguise the insolvent Bahamian life and health insurer’s borrowings and ensure they did not appear as such in its audited financial statements.

Sir Ian ruled the transfers were loans or short-term investments. He pointed to an e-mail exchange involving Ms Gardier, CLICO (Bahamas) former chief operating officer, who wrote: “Happy days are here again. The $3m was received plus $730,000. Who is the policyholder?” Geeta Singh at CLICO Guyana replied: “See, I delivered. You owe me dinner. The $730,000 is CLICO Guyana, the $3m is Suriname. So you do have two policies.”

The Chief Justice found another “significant advantage” for CLICO (Bahamas) was that it would not have to pay out any annuity, and said: “There is also some merit in the submission of CLICO (Bahamas) that the masking of the loan, as policies, gave some benefit to CLICO (Bahamas).

“Note 20 of the 2006 financial statements of CLICO (Bahamas) showed that while by December 31, 2006, CLICO (Bahamas) had borrowed over $5m from Suriname under the disputed policies the only liability recorded was $27,156.. I have indeed found that these were not policies of insurance issued to Suriname but attempts at shortterm loans.” As a result, Sir Ian said Suriname’s claims need to be treated as unsecured loans and not insurance policies. (Tribune242)

our three classes of shares and then a UK general meeting of our voting shares, followed by a shareholders meeting to have non-binding advisory votes on proposed governance changes.”

The board of directors of Liberty Global plc has approved the proposal of the scheme of the arrangement, including the redomiciliation, the preliminary proxy statement said.

A second filing with the SEC said the meetings are expected to be scheduled for later this year.

If the necessary shareholder approvals are given, and other conditions are met, Liberty Global said it will make application to the court for it to approve the scheme and currently expects to complete the redomiciliation in the second half of 2023.

Sir Ian Winder

World News

Nurses’ strike in England to be cut short - court rules

The forthcoming strike in England by members of the Royal College of Nursing has to be cut short by a day, a judge has ruled.

The walkout is due to start at 20:00 BST on Sunday and was going to last until 20:00 on Tuesday.

It must now end on Bank Holiday Monday, following the case brought by the government at the High Court.

The judge ruled that the RCN’s six-month mandate for strike action would have lapsed by Tuesday.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay took legal action after NHS Employers said it believed the last day of the planned strike was not covered by the mandate as the ballots closed on 2 November 2022 at midday.

It had argued that could invalidate the whole strike and urged the government to look into the case.

The government ended up just contesting the part of the strike that fell on the 2 May, the Tuesday.

The judge ordered the RCN to pay the costs of the hearing, saying

the union showed “a high degree of unreasonableness”.#

Mr Justice Linden said that the outcome was “inevitable” and that “instead of grasping the nettle and conceding” it forced the case to court.

Ahead of the court hearing the RCN said it would have to accept the judgement as it would “never do anything illegal”.

But it accused Mr Barclay of bullying nurses and using “draconian anti-trade union legislation”.

After the verdict, Mr Barclay said: “I firmly support the right to take industrial action within the law - but the government could not stand by and let plainly unlawful strike action go ahead.

“Both the NHS and my team tried to resolve this without resorting to legal action.”

‘PATIENTS AT RISK’

The strike was called earlier this month after RCN members rejected a government offer for England of a 5% pay rise for 202324 and a one-off payment of at least

The walkout will affect emergency departments, intensive care, cancer wards and other wards

£1,655 to top up last year’s salary, depending on staff grade.

The union announced its members had rejected the offer by 54% to 46%.

The walkout will involve NHS nurses in emergency departments, intensive care, cancer wards and other wards.

Nurses have already walked out twice this year - on 6 and 7 February and on 18 and 19 January - but on those dates there were exemptions, so nursing cover was maintained in critical areas.

The government has said strike

action with no national exemptions would put patients at risk.

The RCN has said it would ballot members for further strike action once its current mandate expires.

RCN General Secretary and Chief Executive, Pat Cullen, said: “Nursing staff will be angered but not crushed by today’s interim order. It may even make them more determined to vote in next month’s reballot for a further six months of action. Nobody wants strikes until Christmas - we should be in the negotiating room, not the

courtroom today.”

Other unions are also consulting members on the pay deal, which is being offered to all NHS staff, other than doctors and very senior managers.

The biggest health union, Unison, has accepted the deal, as have the midwives.

But radiographers have rejected it.

All the health unions will meet with ministers on Tuesday to reveal whether a majority of staff back the Agenda for Change pay deal. (BBC)

US leaks suspect may have more classified files, prosecutors say

US prosecutors say Jack Teixeira, the airman charged with leaking secret military information, may still have access to a trove of classified files.

They said he should remain in jail pre-trial as he could cause “extraordinary” damage to national security.

Prosecutors also said the 21-year-old had a history of making violent and racial threats.

They will make the case for him to remain behind bars at a detention hearing in Massachusetts on Thursday.

Investigators are still working to determine how Mr Teixeira allegedly leaked dozens of files. They are also investigating whether he kept any physical or digital copies.

The documents, which first appeared in the online chat room Discord, included sensitive information about US allies and the war in Ukraine.

Mr Teixeira’s legal team have not commented on the case but they are expected to argue he should not

be detained before trial.

In a 48-page court filing on Wednesday, the justice department outlined their argument for keeping Mr Teixeira behind bars.

It said he “may still have access

to a trove of classified information” and poses a “serious flight risk” as hostile nations could potentially give him safe haven.

“There simply is no condition or combination of conditions that

can ensure the defendant will not further disclose additional information still in his knowledge or possession,” prosecutors wrote.

“The damage the defendant has already caused to the US national

security is immense. The damage the defendant is still capable of causing is extraordinary.”

In the filing, prosecutors said Mr Teixeira had accessed large amounts of sensitive information which “far exceeds what has been publicly disclosed”.

Prosecutors also said that, after his arrest, the FBI found a tablet, a laptop and an Xbox gaming console at his home that had been smashed and placed in a dumpster.

They also alleged Mr Teixeira had a history of making violent threats. He discussed violence and murder on Discord and was prone to making “racial threats” on the platform, prosecutors wrote.

The filing also disclosed that Mr Teixeira was suspended during high school when a classmate overheard him making threats and discussing Molotov cocktails as well as other weapons.

Meanwhile, two commanders at Mr Teixeira’s unit, the 102nd Intelligence Support Squadron in Massachusetts, have been put on leave pending an investigation.

Jack Teixeira faces up to 25 years in prison over charges of unauthorised transmission of defence information

Leeds exhibition opens honouring Jamaican World War Two veterans

Jamaicans who helped defend Britain during World War Two are the focus of a new exhibition.

King, Country and Homes opens at Leeds Central Library later and includes photographs, keepsakes and recollections.

Alford Gardner, 97, who is believed to be the last surviving Jamaican veteran in Leeds, is among those featured.

His son Howard said: “I hope this exhibition educates people.”

Pope Francis gives women historic right to vote at meeting

The Pope will for the first time allow women to vote at an influential global meeting of bishops in October - a move that has been welcomed as a historic first.

The new rules announced on Wednesday will give five religious sisters voting rights at the synod, which is a papal advisory body.

In the past, women were only allowed to attend the gathering as observers.

Men will still cast the majority of the votes at the influential gathering.

Nevertheless, the reforms are seen as a significant shift for the Roman Catholic Church, which has been male-dominated for centuries.

The US-based Women’s Ordination Conference, which advocates for women priests, has called the reform “a significant crack in the stained glass ceiling”.

“For years Vatican

representatives and bishops resisted, moving the goalpost with every synod as to why women were not allowed to vote,” the group wrote on Twitter. “The unspoken reason was always sexism.”

“In the near future, we hope that the synod continues to develop into a fully representative body of the people of God.”

In a further break with tradition,

Pope Francis announced that voting rights would also be extended to 70 hand-picked nonclerical members of the religious community, moving the synod away from being a meeting solely of the Church hierarchy.

The Pope, who has championed reform, has said that he hopes half of these will be women and there has also been an emphasis on including young people.

“It’s an important change, it’s not a revolution,” said Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, a top organiser of the synod.

Alford responded to an advert in Jamaica encouraging people to join the RAF. He arrived in England in June 1944 - three days before D-day.

After completing basic training in East Yorkshire, Alford was stationed in Gloucestershire where he worked as a mechanic repairing and maintaining vehicles.

After the war, he undertook an engineering training course in Leeds before being sent back to Jamaica at the end of 1947. Unable to find work, he returned to Britain in June 1948 aboard HMT Empire Windrush, settling in Leeds.

Mr Gardner stayed in engineering, married and started a family.

His family believes the exhibition tells a story that needs to be told.

Howard Gardner said: “It was very important work that they did because there weren’t enough English people to do the jobs they were doing. For me, this story has been whitewashed out of the history of the war, nobody knows about it.

“I hope this exhibition educates

Eleven people killed in suspected Maoist militant attack in central India

Ten policemen and a civilian were killed in blast as they were returning from an operation against insurgents in India’s central Chhattisgarh state, its chief minister said Wednesday.

Rebel Maoist militants are believed to be responsible for the attack, Bhupesh Baghel told reporters, expressing his grief over the deaths.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi “strongly condemned” the attack in a statement Wednesday.

“I pay my tributes to the brave personnel we lost in the attack. Their sacrifice will always be remembered. My condolences to the bereaved families,” he wrote

on Twitter.

India’s government has been embroiled in a decades-long conflict with Maoist rebel groups, also known as Naxals, who launch attacks on government forces in an attempt to overthrow the state and usher in a classless society. Maoists are largely active in central India, in remote regions mainly populated by tribal peoples.

According to a 2019 report by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, 90 districts across 11 states are affected by some form of Naxal or Maoist militancy. More than 2,100 civilians in India have been killed in the Maoist insurgency since 2010. The government has responded

with a security crackdown in areas in which the groups are active – an approach that while appearing to reduce the threat level has been criticised by some observers as heavy-handed and prone to abuse.

Villagers who live in Maoist territory are largely cut off from the country’s rapidly growing economy, and many live in fear both of rebels taking their children as recruits and violent government raids.

Errol James is another World War Two veteran featured in the exhibition.

He gave up teacher training in Jamaica to join the war at 18, and like Alford, he too was among the first generation of West Indians to settle in Leeds after the war.

Errol’s daughter Sue Holliday said: “A lot of them moved to Leeds and met and married white women which created an extra level of complexity to their lives.

“He was really proud to come here, and saw this as his home, and both me and my sister are very proud of him because he stood up and he was counted.”

The exhibition forms part of

the Out of Many Festival run by Jamaica Society Leeds and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England. Festival director Susan Pitter said: “It has been an honour to work with the children of Jamaican World War Two veterans to give an insight into the stories of their lives and their families.

“The significance of their service, joining the RAF as young men and teenage boys to fight a war thousands of miles away should not be underestimated.

“They were true pioneers who are too often unrecognised or under-valued.”

The King, Country and Homes exhibition, which is free to view at Leeds Central Library, runs until 24 June. (BBC)

Some villagers in Chhattisgarh previously told CNN that they were forced to pay taxes to the Maoists, or face abuse or even torture. But if they did pay up, they risked being labelled Maoist sympathisers by government forces. Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Bhupesh Baghel announced the latest Maoist attack

The reforms are part of efforts by Pope Francis to give women greater representation within the Catholic Church

Alford Gardner, left, pictured with friend Dennis Reed during World War Two

people and reminds everyone what West Indians have done over the years.”

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

CONTACT: 347-5020

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 347-0283

DOMESTIC WORKER

Applicant must be honest, reliable and willing to work.

General housework, ironing, washing, cooking and cleaning.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 242-0437

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

CONTACT: 341-8168

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: 245-8139

BELONGERS 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 necessary. To work 6 days a week.

CONTACT: 244-9287

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

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

CONTACT: 341-9330

CONTACT: 649-341-6154

Uphold customer service

Maintain Bar Mix and serve drinks

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-7823

Assist plumber Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids. Installs supports for pipes, equipment, and fixtures prior to installation.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-3247 35994

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

LINDANIECE KATHLEEN ROBINSON

● Maintain dwelling home e.g. sweeping, mopping, dusting, washing and other related chores.

● Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT:

SEND RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD (POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDER)

DOMESTIC WORKER BABYSITTER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, etc.

Cleaning,

Help the patient get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties. Prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications.

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL CONTACT: 247-4924

Person must be able to work flexible hours up to six days weekly

DUTIES:

• Conduct sales in a courteous and appropriate manner

• When shopping is complete they must: total bill payment and provide appropriate change and receipt

• Must log all sales

SALARY: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-9919 OR

ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND RESUME TO LABOUR BOARD

Disney sues Florida governor Ron DeSantis

Disney has accused Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of organising a campaign of “government retaliation” in a lawsuit.

The new legal action sharply escalates the battle between the entertainment giant and the Republican politician.

The two sides have been fighting since Disney criticised a state law banning discussion of sexual orientation or gender identity in primary schools.

The lawsuit came after state officials voided a development deal involving the firm’s Florida theme park.

Disney said Mr DeSantis’ steps to assert control over its operations threatened its business and violated its constitutional rights.

It asked the court to undo the moves.

“Disney regrets it has come to this,” the company’s parks division said in the

lawsuit, filed in federal court in Florida.

“But having exhausted efforts to seek a resolution, the company is left with no choice but to file this lawsuit to protect its cast members, guests, and local

ROBERT’S AGENCY

Acting on behalf of

development partners from a relentless campaign to weaponise government power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint unpopular with certain state officials.”

“The lawsuit is yet another unfortunate example of their hope to undermine the will of the Florida voters and operate outside the bounds of the law.”

Mr DeSantis said Disney “tried to pull a fast one” and announced plans for government investigations and other potential actions. He openly referred to a series of possibilities, including new taxes, tolls and even opening a state prison near the parks.

Disney boss Bob Iger has called Mr DeSantis’ fight with the company “antibusiness” and “anti-Florida”.

In the lawsuit, the company said it has planned to invest $17bn at Walt Disney World over the next decade, noting “development and investment of this magnitude cannot effectively take place when it can be nullified or undermined at the whim of new political leadership”.

LEW 1 SHIPPING Tel: 241-2043

Cleaning surroundings, and stacking pallets. $8.00 hourly. Renewal

AGRICULTURE ASSISTANT

SUNSHINE NURSERY

3 Sunshine Crescent, Grace Bay Tel: 946-5443

Assist with planting and transplanting, treatment and plants. $8.00 hourly. Renewal

LABOURER NAIL ARTIST

J & S BEAUTY SALON Tel: 241-2043

Designing and polishing nails, manicures and pedicure. $8.00 hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Mr DeSantis - who is currently abroad on a round-the-world tour - has previously cast the state’s moves as efforts to remove special perks for a company that were no longer in the public interest.

At one point he said the state would not “bend a knee to woke executives in California”.

“We are unaware of any legal right that a company has to operate its own government or maintain special privileges not held by other businesses in the state,” his communications director Taryn Fenske said in response to the lawsuit.

BEEN MEP CO. LTD.

ELECTRICIANS, MAINTENANCE WORKER AND PLUMBERS

ELECTRICIANS must have a recognized qualification/ licence from a governing body in country of origin and at least 10 years experience on large commercial projects is essential. Duties will include electrical installations, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects.

Electricians pay starting at $12.00 per hour.

PLUMBERS must have at least 10 years experience

on commercial projects and duties will include plumbing installations, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Plumbers pay starting at $10.00 per hour.

MAINTENANCE WORKERS must have at least 10 years experience on commercial projects and duties, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Maintenance worker pay starting at $10.00 per hour.

PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO BEENMEP@TCIWAY.TC

THIS AD IS FOR BOTH A FIRST TIME WORK PERMIT APPLICATION, RENEWALS AND ALSO ANY LOCAL/BELONGER QUALIFIED APPLICANTS AS SEVERAL POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE.

WHAT’S BEHIND THE FEUD?

The row with Disney - which opened the city-scale Walt Disney World in Florida in 1971 and is one of the state’s biggest employers - has elevated the profile of Mr DeSantis, who is widely seen as a potential Republican candidate for president.

He has supported measures like a ban on abortion after six weeks and the Parental Rights in Education Act, dubbed by the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics, which bans discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity for pupils aged nine and under.

The state expanded the ban to all grades this month.

Disney criticised that law last year after coming under pressure from its staff.

Florida lawmakers subsequently voted to

restructure the special district that had been created more than 50 years ago to oversee development of the land around Disney World, which includes four theme parks, dozens of hotels and entertainment venues.

The moves gave Mr DeSantis the power to appoint members to the district’s governing board, removing that authority from landowners in the 25,000acre district, of which Disney is by far the biggest.

“There’s a new sheriff in town,” Mr DeSantis declared of the move.

Before the new board was installed, however, Disney reached a last-minute deal outlining the scope of development in the district and giving Disney the right to review any changes to properties within its limits.

The contract limited the powers of the new board and included terms valid in perpetuity or until “21 years after the death of the last survivor of the descendants of King Charles III, king of England”.

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

HUDSON JENNINGS Blue Hills, Te: 341-4502

Upkeep of the surrounding of the property. $8.00p/h

It said approval of the latest development deal came with proper public notice, including in a local newspaper.

Michael Allan Wolf, a law professor and expert in local government and property law at the University of Florida, said he was surprised that Mr DeSantis had taken on Disney.

But he was not surprised to see the company respond in court.

“What the governor and legislature have been doing has had a cumulative effect,” he said. “Given the way in which the governor and legislature have targeted Disney, we should not be surprised that Disney is fighting back.”

He said the company appeared to have a strong case - and he expected other firms were watching how the dispute is resolved.

“One can genuinely ask... will other companies make the same kinds of investment to realise ambitious visions in the state of Florida if they no longer have the assurance that the state will one day not pull the rug out from under them?” he said.

The fight with Disney has appeared at odds with traditional conservative views against government interference with business rights, sparking criticism of Mr DeSantis from some Republicans.

Former US president Donald Trump, who could be challenged by Mr DeSantis to become Republican nominee for president, said the governor had been “outplayed, outsmarted, and embarrassed by Mickey Mouse”. (BBC)

The new legal action sharply escalates the battle between the entertainment giant and the Republican politician

Eurovision 2023: King Charles tells Mae Muller he will be ‘egging’ her on

King Charles III has told the UK’s Eurovision entrant Mae Muller he will be “egging” her on and watching next month’s contest “with great interest”.

The King and Queen Consort met the singer when they visited the venue in Liverpool and unveiled the event’s set.

Camilla said “no pressure” to Muller, who replied: “It feels like a good energy this

year, no nil points.”

She added: “As long as I can get up there and say it’s the best I’ve ever done it, I’ll be pleased.”

The venue will stage the first semi-final in less than two weeks, as the UK hosts the annual competition on behalf of last year’s winners Ukraine.

The grand final will take place a week after the coronation.

“We’ll be watching with

great interest, egging you on,” the King told Muller.

The King and Queen Consort also met co-hosts Hannah Waddingham and Julia Sanina, commentators Rylan Clark and Scott Mills, and members of the production team.

“They were very lovely, so chatty,” Clark told BBC Radio 2 afterwards. “And Queen Consort Camilla was like, ‘I hear you’ve been in

BEEN CONSTRUCTION

ROOFER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, MASON @ $10.00 PER HOUR, CARPENTER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, PAINTER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, TILER @ $10, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR @ $12.00 PER HOUR, ELECTRICIAN @ $15.00 PER HOUR, PLUMBER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, CLEANER $6.75 PER HOUR.

Needed 5 days a week. All applicants must have at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial and residential construction industry. Salary negotiable depending on qualification and experience level.

FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL. EMAIL RESUME TO GBEEN@TCIWAY.TC. TEL:231-6920. THIS AD IS FOR BOTH A FIRST TIME WORK PERMIT APPLICATION AND ALSO ANY LOCAL/ BELONGER QUALIFIED APPLICANTS AS SEVERAL POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE.

The Archers,” referring to his appearance in a special Eurovision episode of the Radio 4 soap.

Clark went on to tell the King he would have to “behave himself this year” because Eurovision is in the UK, Mills said. “I won’t be

URGENT HIRING FIRST MATE/DECK HAND

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong swimming skills

• Outgoing and friendly demeanor, able to engage and communicate with guests and crew.

• Familiarity with Turks and Caicos waters

• Clean Police Record

• TIDES training certificate

• Belonger or PRC holders only Renumeration will be based on experience.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR RESUME VIA:

EMAIL: KRISTINE@CAICOSISLANDCHARTERS.COM

LOCATION: SHOPS AT PORTS OF CALL (SECOND FLOOR), GRACE BAY CONTACT #: 1-649-331-9771

able to roll around Italy like I normally do,” Clark added.

“That did get a Royal laugh,” noted Mills.

The King and Queen Consort also pushed a button to officially light up the arena for the first time.

The venue has been

fitted with more than 2,000 specialist lighting fixtures, with a pink, blue and yellow colour scheme to match this year’s Eurovision logo. The cabling for the lighting, sound and video could reach eight miles if rolled out.

ISLAND FIRE SUPPLIES LTD.

FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN

REQUIRES A FULLY QUALIFIED FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATIONS

• Must have at least 10 years experience in the installation, maintenance and repairs of Fire Alarm Systems, Suppression Systems and Fire Sprinklers.

• Must have a qualification in Fire Extinguisher maintenance and

36193

service.

• Knowledge of Gamewell FCI, Simplex and Fire Lite systems is a must.

• Hourly rate starting at $12.00 and must be willing to work weekends and public holidays.

PROVO PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL

TEACHER

Design and execute performing arts classes. Classes run Monday to Saturday and include Public Holidays. You must have previous experience performing and teaching in all subjects the school provides.

Minimum qualification: Bachelor of Arts in a performing arts subject or a teacher qualification with ISTD/RAD or similar.

Salary: $43,884 per annum.

CLAIMS ADJUSTER Join

HERITAGE INSURANCE COMPANY

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Investigate claims in a timely manner, understand, analyze and apply policy components to evaluate coverage, maintain appropriate claim file documentation, Communicate claim activity regularly to the manager as required, perform other duties as requested and assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: General Automotive Knowledge,

Is seeking a experienced in auto damage appraisals and inspections. Having Prior claims experience and insurance background is a plus. Detail oriented and have excellent customer service - written and verbal communication skills, Able to prioritize and balance

GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER

Neptune Plaza, Providenciales TCI Is seeking to employ a

• Degree in Midwifery or equivalent from an accredited University

• Minimum of 5 years fully registered Midwife

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in community midwifery, birthing centers

• Able to do IVs, venipuncture, injections, vitals, dressings, ECG

• Ultrasound certifications an asset

• Must be able to create and teach

• Setup for and assist doctors with procedures, examination

• Able to work with little or no supervision, ensure proper flow of patients

• Computer knowledge, scheduling appointments, action patients results, update and maintain patients EMR file

Monthly salary $3500.00

to $4500.00

EMAIL: CYNTHIA@GRACEBAYMEDICAL.COM

APPLY. NEW POSITION

IS URGENTLY LOOKING FOR A FLORIST

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

CONTACT: 231-3788

Gypsum Crescent, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking to employ a

install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form structures. Cut,

ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL Build and

35937

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS

To wash, cook, clean, dust, iron, mop, sweep, do laundry, household duties, 24 hour care for the elderly. Must be willing to work 6 days per week including night shift. Salary $8.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 247-5825

WILLIAM

LABOURER

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

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

maintenance,

space cleaning office, windows, floors and garbage disposals any other duties assigned by supervisor/ employer. Must be willing to work 6 days weekly.

CONTACT: 247-5825

EMMANUEL DUNCANSON

ANALEE AVE, BACK ROAD, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

• Cleaning, dusting, sweeping, mopping, restroom cleaning, stock shelves restock products

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $320 weekly

CONTACT: 246-4201

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board Renewal 35692

UNIQUE TOURS & RENTAL

EQUINE TOUR SPECIALIST RENE PULTARCK

BARN MANAGER

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

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

LABOURER

Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a JOB SUMMARY

BUSINESS ADVISOR

The Business Advisor works directly with start-up and existing entrepreneurs to diagnose business health, provide guidance on business operations, provides confidential, one-on-one counseling and coaching in all areas of business, including market feasibility, business planning, financing, marketing, peer-to-peer mentoring, and human resource development. The Business Advisor will also assist clients under TCI Government’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Program regulations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provides business counselling at the Invest TCI office or at the site of the MSME business.

• Provides technical assistance to MSME clients in research and development of business plans, marketing plans, loan proposals and related business development requirements.

• Provide advice and assistance in the establishment and maintenance of business and financial records, in compliance with relevant regulations, guidelines, and standards.

• Liaise with Invest TCI staff and other relevant partners on matters to meet the objectives of the TCI Government MSME Program.

• Utilizes Neoserra Data Base to document client activity in an accurate, timely and comprehensive manner, and utilizes the database software to manage business caseload and produce reports.

• Develops, promotes, coordinates and delivers business management training programs in a variety of topics.

• Collaborates with public and private sector stakeholders to achieve the objectives of Invest TCI.

• Participates, as assigned to promote local business and economic development within various sectors.

• Communicates with the business owners in a professional, patient, ethical and sincere way.

• Stays aware of global and national market trends and the changing needs of the MSME sector.

• Encourages businesses to utilize the various programs offered by Invest TCI.

• Assist in the continued development of Invest TCI’s strategic plan.

• Refers clients to other resources and professionals when necessary.

• Travels throughout the islands to deliver services to MSMEs, as well as occasionally work evenings.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Highly customer service oriented.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with small business owners in a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

• Ability to develop business plans, marketing plans, financial strategies and business loan proposals.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Knowledge of the 2015 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Ordinance and related Regulations.

• Knowledge of sound, practical business practices of MSME operations.

• Ability to gather data, compile information and prepare reports.

• Knowledge of banker expectations of the small business owner.

• Knowledge of basic business accounting and software such as QuickBooks.

• Skill in the use of Microsoft Office and related applications.

• Skill in dealing with business owners and their staff.

• Skills in assessing business training needs, whether the assessment methods are formal or informal.

• Ability to develop and deliver educational programs and/or workshops.

• Skills in relating to the business owner and adult learner.

• Ability to analyze situations or market needs and communicate these effectively.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Completed Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Entrepreneurship from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of one year’s experience related to the essential functions specified.

• Past or current business ownership/management experience.

• Experience in counselling and/or advising small businesses.

• Small business finance/banking experience is preferred.

• Holder of a valid driver’s license and passport.

SALARY: $43,600 per annum based on qualifications and experience.

DEADLINE DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:

The DEADLINE DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS MAY 04, 2023.

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Interested persons should submit a resume, along with their contact information, cover letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate, and a copy of the Passport photo page. Applications can be submitted by courier or delivered directly to Invest Turks and Caicos at Unit 2D, Courtyard Plaza, Providenciales, Turks, and Caicos Islands, prior to the deadline. The application should be addressed to The CEO – of Invest Turks and Caicos and envelopes should have the words “Business Advisor “ clearly marked on the front. Alternatively, applications can be emailed to admin@ investturksandcaicos.tc

The subject line in the email should read “Business Advisor”

WE THANK ALL APPLICANTS FOR THEIR INTEREST. HOWEVER, ONLY PERSONS SELECTED FOR AN INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.

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: 649-343-0189

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

35972

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-5564

HALF

HAIR BRAIDERS

Braiding clients’ hair in different styles. Must be willing to work 6 days a week.

CONTACT: 345-7087

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. WORK PERMIT RENEWAL

Acting

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

35956

#1 Grant Gas Station, Downtown Is seeking to employ a ISLAND BROKERAGE CONSULTANCY

on behalf of our clients Seeking for: ISLAND BROKERAGE CONSULTANCY

Acting on behalf of our clients Seeking for:

CONSTRUCTION

Joining metal, assembling metal structures and equipment through welders, and spraying dump trucks and other equipment.

Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 333-5032

35990

ISLAND BROKERAGE CONSULTANCY

Acting

To work in various construction sites and private homes. Salary: $8 per hour

35989

on behalf of our clients Seeking for:

Acting on behalf of our clients Seeking for:

To work in various businesses and private homes.

Salary $8.00 per hour

RENEWAL, FIRST TIME, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.

TIME, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN

FIRST

GENERAL WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER

RECEIVING CLERK

Must be proficient in logistics, keep records and help with inventory control, assist with sales in store.

CONTACT: 344-4561

CONTACT: 244-2254

Applicant must be honest, reliable and willing to work. Keeping the yard and surroundings clean and disposing of all debris.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 341-0265

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Take orders, answer questions about the menu and take payments. Serving food and drinks to customers.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-4320

BELONGERS

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards.

$8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 348-5921

B&S TECHNOLOGY

Five Cays Access Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island. Contact No: 1649-9417939

We are looking for the following:

PRICING CLERK

• Ability to read/interpret documents; Intermediate math skills;

• You are detail-oriented and organized;

• You work well in a fast-paced environment;

• Good communication and listening skills;

• You are process-driven and able to follow procedures in an organized and efficient way;

• Desire to work with customers on a consistent basis;

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems , POS ,and comfortable using them;

• Strong attention to detail; Sound judgement /decision making skills; selfdirected;

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERK

• Will prepare orders for shipment complete all paperwork, obtain the best rate quotes, and ensure accuracy of the order to ship.

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems and comfortable using them;

• Duties include but are not limited to, receiving in, storing, and distributing all deliveries, as well as stock and restock items in their proper locations as needed.

• Employee will pick customer orders per pick ticket and ensure the accuracy of selected items and quantities.

• Safety, organizational and housekeeping responsibilities are encompassed in the position.

REQUIREMENTS:

• College Graduate with degree on any 4 year Course.

• With atleast 5 years of work experience.

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

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

• A positive attitude. Show up on time

• 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

SIMON WOOD ASSOCIATES LTD. (DBA SWA ARCHITECTS)

Unit 301 Neptune Court, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking to employ a

QUALIFIED ARCHITECT

Applicant must be fully qualified RIBA part 3 or equal with a minimum of 3 years post-qualification experience; with the ability to travel freely throughout the Caribbean and South America

• Suitable candidate must be able to work under their own initiative and has the ability to see projects from concept to completion.

• Researches literature and maintain knowledge of current building materials, structural, mechanical and electrical system codes and methods of application.

• Reviews subcontractor’s shop drawings to ensure compliance with specifications and contract agreements by checking them for technical accuracy according to accepted guideline.

• Work with customers and clients to gather facts, define design and space planning problems, conceptualize possible solutions and secure approvals of proposals.

• Review product literature, analyze materials and determine appropriateness for application to projects.

• Provide advice and develop design documents to initiate and modify architectural, interior design and space planning solutions.

• Perform design drafting including preliminary drawings for architectural working drawings and full detail drawings for architectural, structural and mechanical works associated with building construction or improvement projects.

• Have advanced AutoCAD and SketchUp skills and intermediate Revit skills. Also, proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and Adobe Photoshop.

• Have post graduate Project Management qualification and experience in Contract Administration and Site Inspection procedures.

• Excellent written and spoken English and Spanish languages.

QUALIFIED TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO INFO@SWA.TC; FOR MORE INQUIRES CONTACT 649 946 5911. Salaries commensurate with experience 35924

PRADDO Construction PROJECT MANAGER

We are looking for an experienced Construction Project Manager to plan and supervise a wide range of construction projects from start to finish. Must be able to organize and oversee construction procedures as well as ensure they are completed in a timely efficient manner. Must be well-versed in all construction methodologies, procedures and coordinate a team of professionals of different disciplines to achieve the best results. The ideal candidate will have an analytical mind and great organizational skills. The goal will be to ensure all projects are delivered on time according to requirements and without exceeding budget.

REQUIREMENTS

• Experience in large scale steel construction

• Hands on experience with projects over $50M

• Proven experience as construction project manager

• 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

• Familiarity with construction/ project management software

RESPONSIBILITIES

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

• Negotiate contracts with external vendors to reach profitable agreements.

• Obtain permits and licenses from appropriate authorities.

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

• Hire contractors and other staff and allocate responsibilities.

• Supervise the work of laborers, mechanics etc. and give them guidance when needed.

LIVE IN MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN FOR A PRIVATE LUXURY VILLA

The successful candidate will work closely with the Property Manager and is expected to assist with the upkeep and maintenance of the villas.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have certification in Electrical & Plumbing Installation and the ability to read MEP Plans

• Must have technical experience working on Irrigation Systems, Water pumps

• Must have experience in General Maintenance & Carpentry

• Must be able to maintain Crestron Audio Visual Systems

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Attention to detail

• Must be Pro active

TECHNICIAN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Please note this position requires the applicant to be on call 24/7.

• Must be willing to work with the team and assist in training and delegating maintenance staff.

• Applicant must have a good command of the English Language

• Computer literacy is required in order to access equipment and part replacement information and ordering.

• Must possess a clean driver’s license and police record.

This position requires someone with a sunny disposition who can remain calm during stressful situations. Applicant must have a minimum of 2 years working in a high-end resort or a Luxury Villa. Applicants may work long hours including weekends and holidays.

JILL ROBIN MEYER-SWANN

KENYATTA ISAIAH FORBES

Renumeration for this position starts at $1500.00 per month. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. Interested persons should address their resume to hr@thesource.tc.

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: 231-3122

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 331-0302

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-2015

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

JOB DESCRIPTION

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

MATTHEW AND

Duties are:

• Raking up scrub, trimming trees

• Disposing of scrubs and garbage

• Cleaning windows and door frames

• Light maintainance

Salary: $8.00 per hour working from Monday to Friday

STUBBS

Long Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ

SECURITY OFFICERS

CONTACT: 333-6577

BASIC ESSENTIAL

Must be friendly, courteous and knowledgeable in all aspects of beauty care, beauty treatment, hair products, and skin care products and must be able to

Keep

Basic

LABOURER

HOMAGE TANISSAINT (341-1977)

Five Cays, Providenciales Cleaning yard, lifting heavy items. Salary: $8 hourly

QUALITY SERVICES DELIVERY (346-0002)

Kew Town, Providenciales General cleaning, windows, doors, menial task. $8 hourly RENEWAL &

DUTIES: Cleaning around the job site assisting and clearing up debris

$350.00 weekly

DUTIES : Repairs, maintains, alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mix mortar lays bricks and stones. SALARY$600.00 weekly

NINA SIEGENTHALER (231-0707)

The Mansion, Grace Bay General House chores, care for child, traveling with family. $1200-1500 per month

4T CONTRACTING (232-3265)

Wheeland, Providenciales General cleaning, other menial task. $8-9 hourly

333-8821 TWO PHOTOGRAPHER

(649)

LABOURER CLEANER Five Cays, Providenciales, Is seeking to employ a TRIPPLE A'S EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY 35988

Is seeking to employ an Experienced Housekeeper

HOUSEKEEPER NEEDED

Perform all housekeeping duties including changing the sheets, changing and arranging the towels, restocking toilet supplies, mopping, vacuuming, dusting and rearranging the accommodations. Monitor, report on, and purchase inventory of cleaning supplies.

Airport Road, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking to employ explain and assist customers on how to use products. Must have excellent customer skills and willing to work 6 days a week on shift. Salary $8.00 per hour.

36016

TO

THE

as needed.

Is seeking to employ a shipboard safety, and marine mechanic experience.

DIESEL MECHANIC

DUTIES: Ability to repair and maintain all shipboard systems including, but not limited to, MEs, breathing air compressors, RO water makers, generators and A/C units.

Starting salary: $2000/month REQUIREMENTS: • STCW95/2010 certification,

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

• Must speak/write English fluently.

• Have excellent customer contact skills, and must live onboard the vessel, one day shore leave each week.

• Previous liveaboard experience preferred.

BETHANY’S EDUCATIONAL & SOCIAL TRAINING (B.E.S.T.) INSTITUTE, INC.

Is seeking suitable candidates for the following positions:

DOMESTIC WORKERS

The individual should meet the following requirements:

• Possess a valid food handler’s permit

• A born again Christian preferably of the Baptist Faith

• The ability to read and write English

• Must be able to assist in the preparation of healthy meals

on a daily basis for over 150 students.

• Be able to manage the stock and prepare orders. Handle cash effectively to ensure all checks and balances

• Salary starts at $6.25 per hour

• Positions are currently held by Work Permit Holders

APPLICATION CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT B.E.S.T. INSTITUTE OFFICE, 250 BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES. OR EMAIL: BESTINSTITUTE@TCIWAY.TC

COPY ALL ENQUIRES TO THE LABOUR BOARD, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. TEL: 649-941-4802 | CELL: 649-231-4802

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

NATIONAL COMPANY SERVICES

Providenciales, TCI. Is seeking to employ a

TRAINING OFFICER

FUNCTION: Build annual training program and prepare teaching plans; Identify training needs by evaluating strengths and weaknesses; Groom mentor employees for the next step of their career.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE:

(1) Proven experience in designing multiple training events in a corporate or classroom setting – minimum 5 years; Bachelor’s Degree Business Administration, Training, Accounting experience and Quickbooks encoder

will be an asset; Qualification in Information Technology;

(2) Demonstrated ability to organize and teach complex products, services and procedures; ability to handle up to ten(10) different applications. Advance excel skill

(3) Be flexible to give support to rotated shifts between 7:00 am – 7:00pm daily, including weekends and public holidays, at various locations in TCI.

WAGE: $1,800-2,100 /m –commensurate with qualification and experience.

PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATION LETTER AND RESUME TO: THE CEO, NATIONAL

Five Cays Access Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island Contact No: 1649-9417939

WE ARE LOOKING FOR THE FOLLOWING:

FROZEN FOOD PICKER / STOCKER SUPERVISOR

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

• Supervise stockers with stocking , unloading delivery trucks and organizing stockrooms.

• Pick items for customers order

LABOURERS

• Responsible for doing Manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

PRODUCE CLERKS

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

• Replenish produce stocks and goods on the on display shelf

• Physically able to reach ,stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

FROZEN FOOD PICKERS /STOCKERS

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

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach ,stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

BUTCHERS

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale.

• Cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Performing quality inspections on meats and other products.

WAREHOUSE SUPERVISORS

• Achieving high levels of customer satisfaction through excellence in receiving, identifying,

• dispatching and assuring quality of goods

• Measuring and reporting the effectiveness of warehousing activities and employees performance

• Organizing and maintaining inventory and storage area

STORE CLERKS

• 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 (Minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius)

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

• 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

For work permit renewal and for first time work permit holders. Wages start at $8.00 per hour.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN EMAIL THEIR RESUME TO JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET OR SEND RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. BELONGERS NEED ONLY TO APPLY.

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

OPEN JOB POSITION

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

PAINTER

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Applies various finishes to buildings, rooms, or other structures, including primers or sealers.

• Prepares, cleans, and tapes all jobsites.

• Removes old paint coating, if necessary.

• Mixes colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency.

• Moves necessary materials around jobsite as assigned.

• Cleans up worksite debris.

• Using fillers such as putty and plaster to repair cracks. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

LABOURERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Maintains a clean kitchen, properly washes, and sorts soiled dishes. Keeps dish area free of clutter and organized.

• Sets up dish stations, including dish machines and sinks.

• Maintains clean/dry floors throughout the shift.

• Properly washes, stacks, and stores china, glassware, silverware, cookware, and storage containers.

• Changes water of machines and sinks every two hours, or more often as required by business levels, and properly uses chemical dilutions set by Ecolab.

• Maintains trash cans throughout shift and removes full trashcans and boxes at the end of each shift.

• Maintains the dry storage area and the organization of storage shelves.

• Follows the posted daily dish cleaning duties. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com: however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

DOMESTIC WORKERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Making sure all rooms are clean and in top condition for new arrivals and existing guests.

• Ensure lobbies, lounges, common areas, restrooms, corridors, stairways, locker rooms, and other work areas so that health standards are met.

• Disinfect equipment and supplies, using germicides or steam-operated sterilizers.

• Work quickly and efficiently so guests aren’t left hanging around.

• Liaise with the head housekeeper and supervisor when rooms are ready for guests.

• Ensure the equipment’s use, such as shampooers, polishers, and trolleys, is in good working condition.

• Being able to use the equipment safely and efficiently.

• Ability to bent, lift, and walk upstairs.

• Report on any shortages, damages, or security issues.

• Handle reasonable guest’s complaints/requests and inform head of department. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

DOMESTIC WORKERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Clean and tidy all areas to the standard cleanliness within time limits.

• Frequent bending, pushing, pulling, and kneeling.

• Re-set dinner rooms tables and terraces.

• Clean dining rooms tables and terraces.

• Clean windows, sweep floors, mop floors and polish furniture fixtures in and outside restaurant.

• Remove dinner wares, pushcart, and lift trays from dining rooms.

• Work cohesively with restaurant waiters, waitresses and supervisors.

• Work with minimum supervision and remain motivated. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

KITCHEN HELPER

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Perform combination of duties to maintain kitchen work areas, restaurant equipment, utensils clean and in an orderly condition.

• Wash worktables, walls, refrigerators, mop, sweep floors, and meat blocks.

• Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping, peeling vegetables and cutting meat etc.)

• Ensure all food and other items are stored properly.

• Proven experience as kitchen helper.

• Experience in using cutting tools, cookware and bake ware.

• Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods (grilling, baking, boiling etc.)

• Very good communication skills.

• Work cohesively with head chef and sous chefs. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

LABOURERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming them.

• Gather and empty trash, service, clean, and supply restrooms

• Maintain Controlling stocks for daily use in the department (cleaning products, mop heads, etc.).

• Working within the constraints of Health and Safety and adhere to any Health and Safety policies.

• Perform nightly deep cleaning of common areas of resort; work overnight and split shifts.

• Participate in dishwashing, garbage removal, silver polishing, pot washing or any other areas as necessary in accordance with department needs.

• Ensure water temperature, and chemical level/proper uses of chemicals are appropriate for cleaning. Ability to work overnight shifts and splits.

• Collect towels from around beach and pool.

• Ability to multitask, responsible, organize, basic repairs and basic culinary skills.

• Ability to bent, stand for long hours and knowledge of cleaning equipment’s and machines.

• Ability to walk up and down stairs, bent, physical strength, stamina, and lifts 50lbs.

• Ability to comprehend and communicate in fluent English.

• Excellent communication skills through effectively communicating with guests and management.

This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour

ESTATE MANAGER SANCTUARY LTD.

The Sanctuary, a 3-bedroom rental villa located in the private island of Parrot Cay, is looking for an Estate Manager. Employee would be required to wear “several hats” and to understand that the standard work hours and weeks do not apply to this position; Employee is expected to work on weekends and holidays as needed and to be always on call. Employee must be willing to live on site full time especially when the property is occupied (by both rental guests and owners) and during hurricane threats.

• in charge of the upkeep and day-to-day running of the property

• responsibility for management and supervision a team of maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping

• Employee will have a diverse range of tasks which will include managing the team to keep the estate generally well run and maintained and maintaining safety and security on the estate.

• responsibility for finances and accounting - maintaining accurate records and accounts as required and reporting as agreed, responsibly use resources and control expenses to operate within budgetary controls, payroll, managing the cash, carry out tasks as human resources, purchasing and receiving agent

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum ten (10) years experience as a private estate or property manager with high end resorts, properties or other private homes

• Experience with celebrity clients

• Posses a thorough understanding of all areas of private home management and supervision of design, construction and major renovation

• Ability to monitor and manage household budget and finances

• Must be able to liaise with worldwide FBOs and jet charter and make travel arrangements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Meticulous attention to detail

• Strong accounting and computer background preferred

• Strong communication skills and conflict resolution

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Strong ability to work well in stressful, fast-paced and high-pressure situations

• Strong knowledge on F&B and butler service

• Ability to travel with minimum to zero notice

• Team player, multitasker, proactive, out of the box thinker, service oriented

• Must be willing to sign confidentiality agreement and undergo extensive background (including drug) checks

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and administrate operations of multiple properties for employer

• Monitor and manage household budgets and bank account(s)

• Handle household bills, petty cash, payroll, and administrative duties

• Communicate information, goals/objectives, wants/needs for Principal and organization

• Arrange appointments for personal and professional needs

• Organize Principal and guests: travel, advances, calendars, hospitality and services, etc.

• Look after all guests, main point person for any requests

• Work with private chef on menu plan and estimate food cost analysis

• System and procedure developments

• Serve as a go-to person for all staff to voice concerns, needs and problems that need to be addressed

• Oversee major renovation, design and land altering projects, in addition as requested act as liaison between employer and contractors

• Oversee security requirements

• Make sure all areas of the home are clean, organized and appear in the way of the homeowner wishes so that it’s ready to receive guests

• Oversee all household personnel and scheduling

• Oversee all ordering, shipping and inventory of supplies

• Overseeing hurricane preparedness

• Helping where needed when other staff is unavailable i.e. errands, airport pickups, setting the table, etc

Starting salary $55,000 per annum

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

Preference will be given to Turks & Caicos Islanders meeting the foregoing applications. Applicants are invited to copy the TCI Labour Board with applications

Our company is seeking Belongers only to

RENTAL SALES AGENTS FOR AVIS AND PAYLESS

Looking for a promising career in a fastpaced, customer-driven industry? Avis and Payless Car Rentals are currently seeking to employ Rental Sales Agents for immediate openings. This role is to provide unparalleled customer service by:

• Greeting and assisting customers and prospective customers.

• Completing car rental and return transactions.

• Selling of programs and services to customers and prospective customers at the counter.

• Assisting with fleet management and vehicle prep.

• Following established sales procedures and techniques.

• Identify and report vehicle damage.

• Displaying the ‘We Try Harder’ spirit at all times.

All individuals must possess the following:

• Exceptional customer service skills

• Valid Turks & Caicos Driver’s License

• Ability to work weekends and holidays

• Computer literacy (previous experience with reservations software

is a plus)

• Self-motivator with the ability to work with little supervision

Salary begins at $8.00 per hour (commensurate with experience and qualifications) with the potential for additional earnings through our commissions program. Belongers/ PRC holders preferred.

LABOURER

DUTIES INCLUDE:

• Daily maintenance of the buildings and surroundings

• Cleaning and repair of company facilities and equipment

• Stocking shelves, moving parts

• Unloading containers and or deliveries

• Able to drive a range of vehicles including buses, and manual vehicles

• Must be courteous at all times,

• Must have a valid driver’s license

• With little or no supervision

• Willing to work on weekends and holidays

• Salary range is from $7 to $10 per hour

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

South Dock Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

IS NOW HIRING

PRODUCE STOCKER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Knowledge on produce products and sanitary methods

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary ranges from $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

LABOURER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary ranges from $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

BUTCHER(S)

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale

• Cleaning and maintaining of tools and equipment.

• Ensuring displays are accurate and attractive.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Salary ranges from $9.00 per hour. This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN EMAIL THEIR RESUME

TO JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET OR SEND THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. BELONGERS NEED ONLY TO APPLY.

DIVA’S HAIR SALON AND NAILS

895 Windsor Place, Leeward Highway. Seeking

PEDICURIST

• Discuss nail treatments and services available.

• Clean, trim, polish, buff and file nails.

• Soften calluses and remove rough skin.

• Massage and moisturize hands and feet.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly CONTACT:

649-348-3504

Belongers only apply 36082

TECHNICAL MACHINE OPERATOR (PACKAGING)

Candidate must be qualified to associate degree (or equivalent) and have a minimum of 5 years working experience as a machine operator and technician. Candidate must have a working knowledge of bottle & can quality checks and the ability to conduct other product inline quality checks.

PRIMARY DUTIES INCLUDE

• Preventative Maintenance on Production Equipment

• Sanitation of production equipment and areas

• Product loss calculations

• First pass Quality inspections

• Team lead and down time analysis

Available to work 6 days per week including weekends when necessary. Trade test and competency programs will be included at interview stage. Remuneration is commensurate with experience, in the rage of $900.00 per week.

BOTTLED WATER PLANT PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

• Maintenance of machines (Ozone calibrations, filter changes, RO membrane replacement, etc.)

• Ensuring quality standards in water produced including in-house testing as well as third party testing.

• Ensuring equipment manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is adhered to (lubrication, seal replacements etc.)

• Parts replacement and repairs of machine when needed.

• Maintaining written records of maintenance on machinery preformed production totals etc.

• Ensure packaging standards are kept.

• Supervision of water packaging production crew (ensuring safety standards, cleanliness, procedures adhered to etc.

This position pays $50,000 per annum. Applicants must have prior experience in packaging operations and be familiar with general food and beverage quality control standards.

Applicants

DOSSOU CONSTRUCTION SOUTH DOCK ROAD Is seeking to employ a

MASON

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

Salary: $9.00

CONTACT: 346-7379

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board

A work permit holder currently holds this position 36112

E & V EQUIPMENT LTD.

Williams Auditorium, Five Cays Road, Providenciales Is seeking to employ

2 WELDERS

Fabricate and assemble metal structures and equipment using welders, cutters, and shapers and measuring tools. Salary: $550.00 weekly.

CONTACT:

649-941-8494

Belongers are to apply Renewal 36110

PROVO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

19 Bible Street, Blue Hills Rd.

Invites applicants for the following:

ELEMENTARY TRAINED TEACHERS

TEACHER APPLICANTS MUST:

• Be a committed born again Christian preferable of Baptist faith.

• Must be trained with a valid teacher’s certification or diploma in education.

• Teachers needed for kindergarten to grade 6.

Compensation: Base on qualification

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICS

CASSA TRUCKING

Five Cays, 3482268

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

Assisting driver with delivery such as lifting plywood, rebars, sands, blocks and garbage

LYNEAL GIBSON

241-6103, Kew Town

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00hourly

Domestic Worker cleaning the house, washing dishes, clothes, linen and caring for my home

THE GLAMOUR BEAUTY SALON

342-0052

Leeward Highway

HAIRSTYLIST

$8.00 Hourly

and experience

$1,350.00-$2,000.00 monthly

JANITOR/ CLEANER

To provide janitorial services at the school 5 days per week at $8.00 hourly These positions are currently being held by work permit holders

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board Please submit all applications to: info@provochristianschool.com Phone: 941-5775. Deadline for applications is May 12,2023 36081

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

BJ BROTHERS CONTRACTING

332-6740

The Bight

LABOURER

$8.00

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

BUILDING MARTERIAL

Leeward Highway 946-4131

LABOURER

$8.08.hourly

unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

MAGDA SHOP

South Dock road 243-2275

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

LYNIKA’S CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

Five Cays, Sub Division 342-10759

LABOURER

$8.00 HOURLY

Attending to apartments need such as paint, cleaning and cleaning yards and collecting waste, cleaning office’s and villas

LUNIA SHOP

TIREMY Five Cays 232-9952

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

Unloading containers, transporting goods to customer vehicles and assist customer with heavy lifting

BLUE SKY WATER

Engine Hill, Chalk Sound Is seeking to employ a

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

BRAHMA KUMARIS WSO

RAJA YOGA CENTER MEDITATION MUSEUM #106 Paradise Road, Cooper Jack. Is looking for the following:

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED YOGA TEACHER INSTRUCTOR

To teach Raja yoga with meditation. Assist management in execution of all daily appointments, programs and maintaining of premises.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be trained & have taught Raja yoga to persons of multi-cultural background

• Must demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative, as a team player.

• Must demonstrate best practices and utilize an individual approach.

COMPENSATION:

• Salary is based on qualifications and experience from $15K annually

CONTACT: 231-4101 OR BKWSU.TCI@GMAIL.COM

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

C & S PROFESSIONAL

Acting on behalf of CAROL A. SKIPPINGS/ MUSGROVE

Leeward Palms, Providenciales Is seeking a

Greets customers, receive payment, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-4608

Belongers only apply Renewal 36039

DIAMOND CONSULTING

Acting on behalf of our clients. Seeking for:

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly CONTACT: 246-8103

Belongers only apply/

4 CARPENTERS - $14.00 per hour Build walls and install partitions.

KUBERA LIMITED

DBA GOLDSMITH

JEWELER - $1,250 MONTHLY

Must have excellent knowledge and skill for jewelry and gemstones. Must be able to repair clasps and links on Gold and Silver Jewelry. Must be able to identify precious and semi-precious gems and metals

LABOURER - $1,250 MONTHLY

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Assist in offloading containers and delivering goods.

STORE CLERK - $1,250 MONTHLY

Must be able to provide assistance to customers and handle various duties such as operating the cash register, greeting customers, helping people locate products, doing paper work, stocking shelves, and maintaining the store clean and organized.

DOMESTIC WORKER - $1,250 MONTHLY

Cleaning shop, windows, bathrooms and providing regular housekeeping, sweeping, mopping, laundry and cleaning dishes.

LABOURER

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

CONTACT: 241-5922

Belongers only apply Renewal 36087

DONALD FRANCOIS

Glass Shack

Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

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

CONTACT: 247-0071

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 36029

CAICOS EXPRESS AIRWAYS LTD.

Southern Shores Building, Leeward Highway Is seeking

BAGGAGE HANDLER

• Load and unload customer luggage and other cargo.

• Must be willing to work 4 days per week

Salary: $6.50 Hourly

CONTACT: 941-5630

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Renewal 36038

EDOUARDO E. REYES

GLASS SHACK

Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.50 Hourly

CONTACT: 442-0110

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board Renewal 35997

T&C SECRETARIAL SERVICES

Is seeking

2 CARPENTER HELPER - $9.00 per hour Cut timber or lumber.

2 PLUMBERS

CONTACT: 333-5559

Belongers only. Renewals 36090

Wilson Circle, Blue Hills 649-331-2251

REGINALD JOLLY/RCNM CONSTRUCTION

3 ROCK CARVERS - $10.00 Hourly Drill holes, or cut molding and grooves in stone.

VALMY ANOUSBING MAINTENANCE WORKER - $10.00 Hourly Maintain equipment, buildings, etc.

AMADU TIRES Hanyman - $10.00 Hourly Maintain equipment, and machines, etc.

2

BELONGERS CAN DROP OFF RESUME TO THE STORE

PROVIDENCIALES: CENTRAL SQUARE AND THE REGENT VILLAGE GRAND TURK: GOLDSMITH BUILDING FRONT STREET

TEL: 649 946 4100/332-4100. EMAIL: GOLDSMITHTCI@GMAIL.COM

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT

These positions are currently held by work permit holders 36088

5

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

ALMAIDA HALL

Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a

FARMER

Cleaning, tractor driving, general handiwork, tending to livestock, ploughing, planting and harvesting crops. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT:

(649)231-5170

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 36174

THE BIGHT IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

EXPERT MASSEUSE/MASSAGE THERAPIST

● Applicant must be able to read, write and speak English

● Expertly versed in Balinese , Deep Tissue, Swedish and combination massage therapy

● Able to diagnose and apply massage therapy base on clients preference and needs.

● Have own transportation and massage

therapy equipment such as tables etc.

● Be reliable and have good time keeping skills

Remuneration and Salary based on experience & starts at minimum wage $8.00 per hour

● Must be available to work daily, drive and be flexible to accommodate outer island (North Caicos, etc) services.

CONTACT: 332- 9264

Interested applicants for this position, submit your application and cover letter to ayaniSpa.tci@gmail.com

C & C LIGHTBOURNE BROTHERS

Juba Sound. Is seeking

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-0947

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 36147

HELPER

Clean the store, dusting, sweeping, mopping, clean ceiling vents, restroom cleaning, stock shelves, pick, pack, receive and restock products inside the store. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-0010

CLEANER

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

CONTACT: 345-5815

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

ALTAGRACE

JEAN BROWN

The Bight. Seeking

DOMESTIC WORKER

- $8.00 HOURLY

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

CONTACT:

649-348-5170

Belongers only apply 36126

ANDRE JEAN

FIVE CAYS

Is seeking to employ a

CAREGIVER

• Applicant must be very good with caring for the elderly.

• Bathing, feeding, washing, dispensing of medication and keeping the area clean at all times.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-1243

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board Renewal 36233

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.

ALICE

CONTACT: 231-0845

CONTACT: 232-8817

DOMESTIC WORKER

To

Constructing, installing, and repairing fixtures and structures made from wood and other materials. Utilize saws, drills, and sanders to repair. Salary: $8.00 per hour.

Duties pose bricks and plaster.Salary: $7 per hour

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5170

Help the patient get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications.

$8.00

CONTACT: 333-1655

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Soil cultivation, digging and forking, mulching, watering weeding and seed

CONTACT: 649-245-5955

Cleaning outside the property with

CONTACT: 345-7087

MECHANIC

Duties: To clean and maintain premises and Other chores as assigned.

CONTACT: 331-0375

CONTACT: 341-1809

DUTIES: To assist skilled workers, Maintain all work areas. SALARY: $7.50 per hour

CONTACT: 244-7480

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

SALARY: $7.50 per hour

CONTACT: 241-2946

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

SANTIAGUERO BARBER SHOP

Airport Road. Is seeking to employ a

BARBER - $8.00 HOURLY

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves.

NAIL TECHNICIAN - $8.00 HOURLY

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

HAIRDRESSER - $8.00 HOURLY

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving.

CONTACT: 333-1505

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 36173

MEP SUPERVISOR

REQUIREMENTS:

• Have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the field of Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing supervision.

• Have experience running the MEP scope of work, for projects more than $100 million.

• Have worked in North America for a minimum of 8 years.

• Have intimate knowledge and experience working to the North America codes for electrical, plumbing and HVAC.

BRYAN

CLEANER

•

CONTACT:

•

CONTACT: 649-232-6630

CONTACT: 341-2178

TURQUOISE LANDSCAPING

#8 LEEWARD DRIVE, LONG BAY, PROVIDENCIALES

1 GARDENER & 1 LABOURER

• Must have previous gardening experience and be willing to carry out work such as heaving lifting, digging, and weeding, trimming and plant waste removal.

• Pay - $8.00 Hourly

1 IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN

• Must be familiar with commercial and residential irrigation systems and to provide maintenance as well as the design and set up of new irrigation installations.

• Must be a team player, fit and capable of standing up, bending, kneeling for up to 8hrs per day in hot outdoor conditions.

• Pay - $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-4280 OR EMAIL: TURQUOISELANDSCAPING@ TCIWAY.TC TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Renewals 36079

QUEEN OF WORLD LTD.

Unit F103 Regent Street, Grace Bay, Providenciales

BEAUTICIAN/COSMETOLOGIST

– $8.00 hourly

• Reception and Mall Attendance.

• Phone service and appointments.

• Hair styling and treatments.

• Skincare therapist, fat masseur, waxing, plasma application, mesoterapy botox, feet massage, skin laser therapy, Aesthetics RIF/PRP/FACIAS and make-up.

CONTACT: 946-5999 OR 242-2015

EMAIL: INFO@QUEENOFWORLD.COM

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

Work permit holders currently holds these positions 36228

JOB VACANCIES

HOUSEKEEPER

5 years experience in a luxury resort environment. knowledge relating to cleaning products and correct usage, responsible for the basic cleaning and sanitation in and around Pine Cay (assist in the daily operations of Hotel and Villa housekeeping duties) and providing tidy and sanitary amenities to guests and staff. Must pay attention to details, learn and adapt quickly, work diligently and independently and be organized. Some shifts may require staying on Pine Cay. Salary is $10.00 per hour.

BOAT MECHANIC/ MARINE MECHANIC

Requires a minimum of 10 years experience in marine maintenance. Responsible for maintaining, repairing and testing all resorts and homeowner’s Vessels, observing equipment and diagnosing potential problems and repairing them, document inspections and maintenance on all watercraft. Boat Captains License, Driver’s License and a certificate from a brand of outboard engines (emphasise on Yamaha) or marine engineering school is required. The Position requires staying on Pine Cay. Salary is 30K per annum.

MAINTENANCE LABOURER

3 years experience in a luxury resort environment. Must be able to work outdoors and operate small machinery, Maintain the beauty and health of all plants, flowers, outdoors grounds and trees, responsible for designing, producing, renewing and preserving outdoor spaces as well as responsible for minor repairs and keeping the compound clean from debris. Must be able to take direction, pay attention to detail and be a team player. Skills in painting, carpentry, landscaping and gardening would be an asset. Some shifts may require staying on Pine Cay. Salary is $10.00 per hour.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN SUBMIT THEIR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO: RECRUITMENT@PINECAY.COM

Science & Technology

China plans to inhabit a space station on the moon by 2030

CHINA, despite its late entry into the realm of space exploration, has recently unveiled an ambitious vision that could potentially make it the first nation to establish a lunar base on the moon.

With aspirations of putting Chinese astronauts on the moon’s surface within the next seven years,.

NASA has disclosed plans for its own Artemis Base Camp, aiming for establishment in the 2030s. This timeline sets up the tantalizing prospect of an intense 21st-century space race between the two countries. Wu Weiren, the physicist leading China’s moon mission, shared with state media that Beijing’s goal is to build a lunar research station before the end of the decade.

“By 2030, the footprints of the Chinese people will be left on the moon,” said Weiren. “There’s no question about it.”

This development follows China’s announcement two years ago of a partnership with Russia to create a joint lunar base by 2035. The latest declaration suggests that the two nations have expedited their plans in an effort to surpass the US-led Western contingent, which includes the space agencies of Canada, Europe, and Japan.

Leaked documents from last year indicated that NASA aimed to begin its moon base construction

in 2034. However, the US space agency has also expressed aspirations to have a permanent lunar outpost by the end of the decade.

Just last week, officials hinted that work on this project could commence as early as the Artemis VII mission, which could launch between 2029 and 2030, contingent on the success of earlier milestones in the program.

Although China is a relative newcomer in the field of space exploration, the country has achieved several noteworthy accomplishments over the past decade. The uncrewed Chang’e 1 mission launched in 2007 to orbit the moon, followed by a successful unmanned landing in 2013.

In 2019, China made history as the first country to land on the far side of the moon. At the end of 2020, the Chang’e-5 probe successfully returned with rock and lunar soil samples, further showcasing China’s growing prowess in space.

RUSSIA’S COLLABORATION WITH CHINA

In contrast to China’s ambitious lunar plans, Russia appears to be taking a different path in the realm of space exploration. Although once a superpower alongside the United States, Russia has

Beijing may even outpace the United States in creating a permanent lunar outpost

transitioned from being a space pioneer to playing a somewhat minor role, particularly after losing its monopoly on ferrying astronauts to the International Space Station due to the emergence of Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

Nevertheless, Moscow still possesses substantial expertise and is evidently regarded by China as an ideal partner for its moon base endeavors. In 2021, Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, announced that it had signed an agreement with China’s National Space Administration to develop research facilities on the moon’s surface. The two countries committed to

collaborate in the planning, design, development, and operation of the research station.

While the initial goal was to build the lunar outpost by 2035, it seems that Beijing and Moscow are now focused on competing with NASA in the race to establish themselves as the leading global force in space exploration.

According to the official timetable, Beijing plans to launch the Chang’e 7 mission in 2026 for a “comprehensive survey task” to search for water at the moon’s south pole. Following this, the Chang’e 8 mission, scheduled for 2028, would aid in constructing

an international lunar station that would be available for use by other nations, as explained by Wu Weiren to China Central Television.

He further elaborated on the primary objectives of the Chang’e 8 mission, stating that “its primary task would be to survey resources on the moon and experiment with the reutilization of the resources.”

Wu also highlighted potential research questions, such as the feasibility of constructing buildings on the moon, the viability of using bricks, and the methods of communication that would be employed. (Earth.com)

Walk breaks may help with type 1 diabetes – study

Walking for three minutes every half an hour could help improve blood sugar levels, a small trial presented at a UK diabetes charity’s conference suggests.

The study of 32 people with type 1 diabetes showed blood sugar levels lowered when they took regular walking breaks over a seven-hour period.

Diabetes UK said these “activity snacks” could offer practical, costfree changes.

Type 1 diabetes affects about 400,000 people in the UK.

The condition happens when the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

This means the pancreas can no longer produce insulin - leading

to high blood sugar levels. People need to take regular insulin medication.

‘WALKING PHONE CALLS’

Over long periods of time

high blood sugar can result in complications like kidney failure, eye problems and heart attacks.

Dr Elizabeth Robertson, director of research at Diabetes UK, which funded the study, said for people with type 1 diabetes, managing blood sugar levels day in, day out, can be “relentless”.

She added: “It is incredibly encouraging that these findings suggest that making a simple, practical change - such as taking

The study of 32 people with type 1 diabetes showed blood sugar levels lowered when they took regular walking breaks over a seven-hour period

Science & Technology

New research suggests that french fries may be linked to depression

FRENCH fries — they’re greasy, starchy and a comfort food for many.

But reaching for fried foods may have a negative impact on mental health.

A research team in Hangzhou, China, found that frequent consumption of fried foods, especially fried potatoes, was linked with a 12% higher risk of anxiety and 7% higher risk of depression than in people who didn’t eat fried foods.

The link was more pronounced among young men and younger consumers.

Fried foods are known risk factors for obesity, high blood pressure and other health effects. These results “open an avenue in the significance of reducing fried food consumption for mental health,” according to the paper published Monday in the journal PNAS.

However, experts who study nutrition said the results are preliminary, and it’s not necessarily clear whether the fried foods were driving mental health issues, or people experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety turned to fried foods.

The study evaluated 140,728 people over 11.3 years. After excluding participants diagnosed with depression within the first two years, a total of 8,294 cases of anxiety and 12,735 cases of depression were found in those that consumed fried food, while specifically fried potatoes were found to have a 2% increase in risk of depression over fried white meat.

The study had also found that

Fried foods may have a negative impact on mental health, a new study found

the participants consuming more than one serving of fried food regularly were more likely to be younger men.

“The human component of this study may indicate just what it purports: that higher intake of fried food increases the risk of anxiety/ depression,” said Dr. David Katz, a lifestyle medicine specialist who was not involved in the study, via email.

“However, the causal pathway could just as readily go the other way: people with anxiety/ depression turn to ‘comfort food’ with increasing frequency for some semblance of relief,” added Katz, founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, a global coalition of experts dedicated to evidencebased lifestyle medicine.

Those with underlying

symptoms of anxiety and depression could turn to comfort foods as a way of self-medicating, he said.

Unhealthy food and poor nutrition can lower one’s mood and progress a mental health condition, as found in a prior study cited within this new one.

THE SAME GOES FOR ZEBRAFISH

In the new study, the researchers suggest that acrylamide, a chemical formed during the frying process, especially in fried potatoes, is to blame for the higher risk of anxiety and depression.

In a separate paper referenced in the new study, the researchers exposed zebrafish to the chemical, finding that long-term exposure had caused the fish to dwell in dark

zones within the tank, a common sign of a higher anxiety level in the fish.

The zebrafish had also displayed a reduced ability to explore their tanks and socialise, as they did not swim closely with other zebrafish, even though zebrafish are known to form schools with their species.

“Zebrafish were presumably chosen … because they were already known to be vulnerable to acrylamide toxicity, and because their behavioural responses to anxiety are established and consistent — offering a source of both biological and behavioural data,” Katz said.

Dr Walter Willett said the results “should be regarded as very preliminary, especially the connection with fried food and acrylamide.”

“The health effects of fried food will depend greatly on what food is fried and what type of fat is used for frying,” said Willett, professor of epidemiology and nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, via email. “Potatoes are a concern for possible effects of mood because they can cause large surges in blood sugar and then hormonal responses to these surges. However, these surges are partly blunted by fat, which would be provided by the fat from frying.” Willett also noted that acrylamide isn’t only produced by frying. It’s in coffee, because of the roasting of the beans, and in toast, because “heating carbohydrates together with protein can do this.” He also said that the zebrafish “data are hard to interpret in relation to human health because we are obviously quite different, and the authors recognized this.”

ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION ON THE RISE

Zhejiang University researcher Yu Zhang, an author of the study, told CNN in an email that “there is no need to panic about the adverse effects of fried food.” But maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing consumption of fried foods may be helpful for mental health in additional to overall health.

The researchers had pointed to a recent rise in depression and anxiety worldwide, with 2020 seeing an increase of 27.6% and 25.6%, respectively. The World Health Organization also estimates that more than 5% of adults suffer from depression, globally, as noted in the paper. (CNN)

Walk breaks may help with type 1 diabetes ...

CONTINUED 

phone calls while walking, or setting a timer to remind you to take breaks - to avoid sitting for long periods - could have such a profound effect on blood sugar levels.

“We look forward to further research to understand the long-term benefits of this approach.”

Lead researcher Dr Matthew Campbell, from the University of Sunderland, said he was surprised by the magnitude of the results with low level activity.

He said for some people with type 1 diabetes “activity snacking” could be an

important stepping stone towards more regular physical activity and for others it could be a simple intervention to help manage blood glucose levels.

He added: “Importantly, this strategy does not seem to increase the risk of potentially dangerous blood glucose lows which are a common occurrence with more traditional types of physical activity and exercise.”

In the early-stage trial, which has not yet been published, 32 adults with type 1 diabetes completed two seven-hour

sessions of sitting down.

In one session they remained seated. In the other they broke up the seven hours with three-minute bouts of light intensity walking (at their own pace) every 30 minutes.

Their blood sugars were monitored continuously for 48 hours from the start of each session and they all had similar food during the seven hours and did not change their insulin treatment.

Taking regular walking breaks resulted in lower average blood sugar levels (6.9

mmol/L) over the 48-hour study period compared to uninterrupted sitting (8.2 mmol/L).

Walking breaks also increased the time people spent with their sugar levels within a desirable range.

Dr Campbell said he hoped to complete larger studies over a longer period to better understand the benefits of this approach.

He added: “The reality is simple ways of encouraging moving more through the day should benefit the vast majority of people.” (BBC)

Science & Technology

Exercising as a child can prevent muscle weakening condition during old age

DURING adolescence, muscle function usually increases. As we continue to age however, it starts to go down. Sarcopenia, a type of muscle weakening, is a serious concern for older adults.

Researchers from Juntendo University in Japan have now found that building an exercise habit during childhood may prevent the onset of this condition later in life.

“Preventing sarcopenia is an important strategy for preventing disability and the need for longterm care in the older age. By establishing the association, we can move one step closer to reducing risk factors of sarcopenia in older Japanese adults,” explains team leader Professor Yoshifumi Tamura from the Faculty of International Liberal Arts at Juntendo University.

The researchers assessed the exercise habits of 1,607 Japanese adults (679 men and 928 women), between the ages of 65 and 84, as

part of the “Bunkyo Health Study.”

The participants completed a health exam that included their skeletal muscle index, handgrip strength, as well as gait speed. The researchers divided participants into four groups: no exercise in either period, exercise only during adolescence, exercise only during older age, and exercise during both periods. They also measured low muscle performance according to low muscle strength and/or low gait speed.

Results show that 6.6 percent of the men and 1.7 percent of the women had sarcopenia. Low muscle mass was present in 14.3 percent of the men and 5.2 percent of the women, while low muscle performance was common among a quarter of the men and one in five women. Additionally, in men, the odds of having sarcopenia, low muscle mass, and low muscle performance were lower in those that exercised as both

Exercising during childhood has positive effects in the future

adolescents and older adults. For women, the same association was seen, but only for low muscle performance.

“We would like to emphasise that exercising not only during old age but also during adolescence, i.e., junior and high school, may influence the maintenance of skeletal muscle function in old age,” says Prof. Tamura in a media

release.

“By creating the awareness that inculcating the habit of exercising during adolescence, people can prevent several problems in their older ages. In the long run, exercising during adolescence has the potential to improve the quality of life of the older adults by providing maintenance of their skeletal muscle function.”

Tamura and his team are excited to shed light on the importance of exercise, no matter your age. They hope their work urges younger people in Japan to move their bodies more in order to lower their risk of sarcopenic complications, which Asians with lower body mass indexes (BMI) are more likely to have. (Studyfinds.org)

Tech CEO trying to reverse aging shows off wonder machine

Tech CEO Bryan Johnson has become known worldwide as the guy spending millions each year to try and reverse aging.

This year alone, Bryan Johnson is spending $2 million to try and reverse aging with the ultimate goal of living as long as possible and pushing the boundaries of what is actually possible thanks to modern science.

Bryan Johnson allegedly has the ‘skin of a 28-year-old’ coupled with the ‘lung capacity of an 18-year-old’ and despite being 45, he has the ‘heart of a 37-year-old’ according to tests.

In a recent interview with Fortune magazine, Bryan Johnson discussed his reverse aging regimen. Part of that includes this machine which he claims simulates doing 20,000 sit-ups in just 30 minutes.

Johnson says he uses the machine at 100% (level 15) and lies down. He says the “sensation is it feels like it’s pulling your stomach out” when using the machine at first.

He says the machine runs on ‘high frequency electromagnetic stimulation’ which is a fancy way of saying he’s shocking himself repeatedly for 30 minutes to get his abs toned. Bryan Johnson claims this machine ‘contracts muscles far greater than (he) ever could in a gym’ which is a big claim.

This isn’t the first time I’ve seen one of these. On the crew team in HS, one of the guys had a wrap that shocked him repeatedly and was supposed to produce toned abs. In his defense, he was shredded but we were also working out for 4+ hours six days

a week…

The Fortune interview is bananas. Bryan Johnson’s reverse aging regimen “has 100 different protocols embedded in his day” from extremely specific caloric intake to what he eats to sleep times and more. His days include:

• 1,977 vegan calories a day

• exercise an hour a day, highintensity three times a week

• sleep at the same time every night, after two hours wearing glasses that block blue light

• blood tests, MRIs, ultrasounds and colonoscopies

• take two dozen supplements and medicines

It is hard to comprehend having 30+ doctors taking care of you. But he is reportedly a ‘centimillionaire’ after selling Braintree Payment Solutions to eBay for $800 million. Totally normal stuff. (Brobible)

Bryan Johnson allegedly has the ‘skin of a 28-year-old’ coupled with the ‘lung capacity of an 18-year-old’ and despite being 45, he has the ‘heart of a 37-year-old’ according to tests

Sports International

Football great Pelé enters dictionary as synonym for ‘unique’

Pelé, the nickname of the late football legend, has officially become synonymous with “exceptional, incomparable, unique”.

The Portuguese-language Michaelis dictionary, one of the most popular in Brazil, added “pelé” as a new adjective to its online edition.

The inclusion came after a campaign by the Pelé Foundation to honour the football star gathered more than 125,000 signatures.

Pelé died in December aged 82.

The only player to have won the World Cup three times, he is widely considered to be the best footballer in history.

During his playing career spanning two decades, he scored a

record 1,281 goals with Brazilian club Santos, Brazil’s national team, and the New York Cosmos.

Since his death from complications from colon cancer, his former club, Santos, sports channel SporTV and the Pelé Foundation had been pressing for the football star’s name to be recognised with its own entry in the dictionary.

On Wednesday, the publishers behind Michaelis dictionaries announced the word would be included in the digital edition of their Portuguese-language dictionary immediately and in the printed version once the next edition was published.

The entry reads: “pe.lé adj. That or someone who is out of the

Pelé has now got his own entry in a Portuguese-language dictionary, making his mark on language as well as sport

ordinary, who or who by virtue of their quality, value or superiority cannot be equalled to anything or anyone, just like Pelé, nickname of Edson Arantes do Nascimento (1940-2022), who is considered

the greatest athlete of all time; exceptional, incomparable, unique.”

The Pelé Foundation, a charitable organisation created to preserve the player’s legacy, said it

was a fitting tribute to “the king”.

“The expression already used to refer to someone who is the best at what they do has been [made eternal] on the pages of the dictionary!,” it tweeted. (BBC)

Mariupol’s disbanded soccer team is reborn in Brazil

A little part of Ukraine is reborn in southern Brazil.

Just over a year ago, Ukrainian soccer team FC Mariupol disappeared, as the city it represented was pummeled by Russian artillery and bombers.

On March 19, 2022, the team was due to welcome FC Kollos to the Volodymyr Boyko Stadium for a match in the Ukrainian Premier League.

But by then, its training center had been bombed; the club’s campus had become a Russian barracks.

When the Ukrainian professional league resumed, FC Mariupol was missing from the schedule, its squad disbanded and its 12,000-capacity stadium deserted.

But hope was not abandoned.

The club’s vice president, Andriy Sanin, told CNN on Tuesday: “When we don’t play, people forget about us. And this was very disturbing for us. We started looking for ideas how to make people to keep talking about us.”

One idea was half a world away.

“The first country that comes to mind when you think about football is, of course, Brazil. We found a whole province that is almost 80% ethnic Ukrainian, and we found a football club,” Sanin said.

The province, or region, was

Prudentópolis in southern Brazil, where a large number of inhabitants are of Ukrainian descent. The town of Guarapuava boasts the largest Ukrainian community in south America – an incredible 75% of its 52,000 inhabitants claim Ukrainian descent.

And the football club?

Associação Atlética Batel.

Not exactly a powerhouse of Brazilian football, as the team

plays in the third division of the state league in Paraná. But Batel suddenly has an international following. For the next six games, and maybe beyond, it’s changing its name to FC Mariupol, adopting the orange shirts of the Ukrainian side as well as its crest and logo.

For Sanin: “This gives hope that if the club has not died, the city will not die either, and it will be

revived.

“Ukrainian Mariupol will be revived just like the Ukrainian football club Mariupol,” he told CNN.

In Brazil, Batel club president Alex Lopes said: “Our club and our region have a lot in common with the Ukrainian people. Our goal is to help keep FC Mariupol, which was the pride of the city, alive until they can really get back

into business.”

On the newly created website FCMariupolLives, Batel commented: “Ukraine has always opened the gates of Europe to Brazilians. Now, it’s time for Brazil to welcome the Ukrainians and keep FC Mariupol alive.”

Sanin says it’s impossible to express how much Batel’s gesture means to the Ukrainian club. He confessed that a video created in Prudentópolis to embrace FC Mariupol reduced him to tears.

The website created by the club says: “We will take care of FC Mariupol until all the Ukrainians can go to Volodymyr Boyko stadium again to watch their home team play.”

The feeling is mutual; Sanin told CNN, “I really hope that later, after the war, we will definitely meet with the guys from the Brazilian club. We will invite them to Mariupol, to the Sea of Azov.”

Sanin, like millions of Ukrainians, is awaiting the muchheralded launch of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. And he’s optimistic that the Volodymyr Boyko stadium will soon see the orange shirts in action again.

“A few days ago we asked the Ukrainian Premier League to postpone our return to big football for another season. So we can return in the 2024/25 season.” (CNN)

Mariupol’s Sergiy Yavorsky celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Djurgardens IF in the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round in 2018

Sports International

Antetokounmpo says ‘there’s no failure in sports’ after play-off exit

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has said “there’s no failure in sports” after his team’s early exit from the NBA play-offs.

After being NBA champions in 2021, the Bucks were knocked out of last season’s Conference semifinals and then this season’s first round, despite being top seed in the Eastern Conference.

After the Bucks’ exit, Antetokounmpo was asked if this season was a failure.

“There’s good days and bad

days,” said NBA’s two-time Most Valuable Player.

“Some days you’re able to be successful, some days you’re not. Some days it’s your turn, some days it’s not your turn.

“That’s what sport’s about. You don’t always win, and this year somebody else is going to win. We’ll come back next year and try to be better.”

In football some fans and pundits have accused Arsenal of ‘choking’ during the Premier League title race as they have surrendered their

La Liga leaders Barcelona lose to Rayo Vallecano

advantage to Manchester City.

However, Antetokounmpo, who is in contention for a third MVP award this season, referenced Michael Jordan, a five-time MVP between 1988 and 1998, when making his point.

“Every year you work towards a goal,” said the Greek power forward, 28. “There are always steps to success.

“Michael Jordan played for 15 years, he won six championships, so the other nine years he was a failure?” (BBC)

Leaders Barcelona suffered only their third La Liga defeat of the season as Rayo Vallecano secured a memorable win.

Goals by Alvaro Garcia and Fran Garcia put the mid-table hosts in a commanding position before Robert Lewandowski scored a late consolation.

Barca remain on course to win a first La Liga title since 2018-19, 11 points clear of nearest rivals Real Madrid with eight matches left.

They host fifth-placed Real

Betis on Saturday (kick-off 20:00 BST).

Garcia put Vallecano ahead after firing across Marc-Andre ter Stegen before Garcia doubled the lead.

Lewandowski pulled one back after Franck Kessie’s shot was blocked, his 18th La Liga goal of the season.

It was Barcelona’s first defeat in La Liga since 26 February, while they have won just one of their past four league games. (BBC)

Man City 4-1 Arsenal: Premier League title in our hands - Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola says his Manchester City side have proved they can deliver when there is “no option but to win” after beating Arsenal to put the Premier League title race in their hands.

Guardiola’s team beat leaders Arsenal 4-1 at Etihad Stadium, and are now two points behind with two games in hand.

City have seven matches left, starting with Sunday’s trip to Fulham before home games against West Ham and Leeds.

“We cannot lose our focus. Now it’s in our hands,” said Guardiola.

“These next three games will dictate if we can do what we want to do. The reality is we’re still behind Arsenal.

“It will not be easy for us, but it is game by game and we see what happens.

“When it’s in our hands, we have to use it.”

City remain on course for a Treble of the Premier League,

Guardiola’s team beat leaders Arsenal 4-1 at Etihad Stadium, and are now two points behind with two games in hand

Champions League and FA Cup, with Guardiola saying the experience of his players knowing what it takes to win in the final stages of the season is proving crucial.

“The players know it is necessary to say it is close and we need to win to stay in contention,” added the former Barcelona and

Bayern Munich boss.

“That mentality where you have no option but to win is the best mentality to play. The players have shown they go into every match trying to win.”

City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne scored twice in Wednesday’s win, with defender John Stones heading in the second just before half-time

and striker Erling Haaland adding a late fourth.

Belgium international De Bruyne said there is still a “long” way to go, despite many people thinking they are almost certain to win a third successive title.

“We know what people will say. It’s so hard. A lot of things can happen,” he said.

“There are still seven games left - and we’re still behind them [in the table]. People say we will win the title. We won’t give in until it’s mathematical. Our schedule is hectic.”

ALL

REMAINING GAMES

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says he thinks his side will have to win all five of their remaining matches to have a chance of their first title since 2004.

Arteta’s team, who finished fifth last season, were eight points clear at the start of the month.

But three successive draws -

against Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton - meant they lost momentum going into the match at City, which had been billed as the title decider.

“We knew we’d need our best as a team. We were far from that,” said Arteta.

“I don’t know what will be required [to win the title]. We have to lift the players up because they’re suffering. It’s a difficult one to swallow.”

Asked if Arsenal need to win all five games to have a chance, the Gunners boss said: “I think so.”

However, the Spaniard expressed his pride at the team’s performances this season and pointed out they were performing way above expectations.

“It is a very difficult night, the way we lost, but we have to stand up and look at the bigger picture,” said Arteta, who worked as Guardiola’s assistant at City from 2016 to 2019.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo led his team to the 2021 title

Barcelona need four wins from seven games to win La Liga

Formula 1 sprint races: New format to be introduced for 2023’s six events

Formula 1 is to introduce a new format for ‘sprint’ races, starting at this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

The ‘sprint’ - a shorter race held on Saturday - has been made independent of the grand prix and will have its own qualifying session, known as the ‘sprint shootout’.

Qualifying to set the grid for the main Grand Prix will be held on Friday.

There will then be a shorter qualifying session, to the same knockout format, on Saturday to set the sprint grid.

The ‘sprint’ qualifying will have

three sessions, with the slowest five cars eliminated at the end of the first two, but the sessions will be cut to just 12, 10 and eight minutes. The three sessions in a standard qualifying run for 18, 15 and 12 minutes, respectively.

While tyre use in a standard qualifying session is free, it will be mandated by the rules for the sprint race qualifying - teams will have to use new tyres in each session: the ‘medium’ compound in the first two and ‘soft’ in the final top-10 contest.

The new format was agreed unanimously on Tuesday at a meeting of the F1 Commission

- a rule-forming body that consists of governing body the FIA, commercial rights holder F1 and the teams - before being rubberstamped by legislative body the FIA world council.

The idea behind the changes is to introduce more jeopardy into the ‘sprint’ by encouraging drivers to take more risks.

The previous format for sprint weekends, which were introduced in 2021, had the Friday qualifying

session setting the grid for the sprint and the result of the sprint establishing the grid for the main grand prix.

That meant drivers were reluctant to take chances in the sprint because any errors or accidents would disproportionately harm their chances in the grand prix.

It remains to be seen whether the new format makes any significant difference, as it remains the case that the point rewards for the sprint are

much lower than for the grand prix.

As before, the top eight finishers in the sprint will score points, from eight for first place down to one for eighth.

The new format, which will be used at all six of the sprint weekends this season, also has the benefit of eliminating a Saturday practice session in which teams ran only with race fuel loads and as a result was a meaningless spectacle for the audience.

US long jumper Tara DavisWoodhall stripped of national title after positive cannabis test

US long jumper Tara DavisWoodhall has been stripped of her recent national indoor title and hit with a one-month suspension after a positive test for cannabis, the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) announced Tuesday.

USADA said Davis-Woodhall tested positive for THC, a chemical found in cannabis, marijuana and hashish. Her positive test was from the result of a sample collected in competition at the 2023 USA Track and Field indoor championships in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on February 17, the same day she had won the title with a jump of 6.99 meters.

Davis-Woodhall, 23, has already completed her suspension, which

she began serving on March 21.

The positive test means DavisWoodhall lost her title, as she was disqualified from all competitive results obtained on and subsequent to February 17, including forfeiture of any medals, points and prizes.

Cannabis, marijuana, and hashish are considered prohibited substances under World AntiDoping Agency (WADA) rules.

“WADA seeks input on each year’s updated version of the Prohibited List,” USADA’s press release states. “USADA has advocated and will continue to advocate to WADA, the rule maker, to treat marijuana in a fairer and more effective way to identify true in-competition use.”

Real Madrid concedes four goals in heavy defeat to Girona as La Liga title hopes fade

Real Madrid’s hopes of catching Barcelona at the top of La Liga were all but extinguished on Tuesday as Los Blancos suffered a shock 4-2 defeat to Girona.

Valentín Castellanos had the match of his life, scoring all four goals in the victory to become the first player in more than 75 years to score four times in a single La Liga match against Real Madrid. Vinícius Jr and Lucas Vázquez

got on the score sheet for Real Madrid, but it wasn’t enough against a rampant Castellanos –more commonly known by his nickname ‘Taty’ – who took his La Liga goal tally for the season to 11.

The Argentine is currently on a season-long loan at Girona from MLS side New York City, both sister clubs of Real’s upcoming Champions League semifinal opponent Manchester City.

Real Madrid remains 11 points behind Barcelona at the top of La Liga, but Xavi’s side can extend its lead to 14 points with victory over Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday.

“It was a tough night,” Real head coach Carlo Ancelotti said, per the club. “Whenever you lose like this, it’s a tough night. We were very poor defensively and that was what decided the game. We did a good job with the ball, especially early on.

Tara Davis-Woodhall represented the US at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021

A sprint race was last held before last year’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix in November, with George Russell winning, Carlos Sainz second and Lewis Hamilton third

Valentín Castellanos had the match of his life

Sports National

Countdown underway for “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim

The countdown has begun for the annual Turks & Caicos “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim set for Saturday, June 24, 2023.

As before, the now iconic international swim race will once more take place in the turquoise waters of Grace Bay with the start and finish in front of Rickie’s Flamingo Cafe.

The event will feature three main races, the 2.4 mile, the 1 mile, and the 1/2 mile plus a 100-metre Children’s Swim for youngsters 10 and under. Co-Founders and Race Directors Ben Stubenberg and Chloe Zimmermann say that based on current online sign-up the

race should bring in at least 100 swimmers from the US and Canada, many returning year after year. In addition, the Race Directors expect about 35 TCI residents, including many outstanding local swimmers who took home half the conch trophies in 2022.

Stubenberg said, “It is truly gratifying to see our local swimmers compete on such a high level and taking on top swimmers from abroad.” Zimmermann added, “We very much look forward to seeing our swimmers from last year back in the water this year better than ever. And we welcome the new, up-and-coming

young swimmers doing their first open water race.”

The race, which started in 2010, has grown every year to become one of TCI’s top sporting events. In 2021, the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) nominated the “Race for the Conch” as one of the best swim’s in the world.

The race is now a certified WOWSA event. The Race Directors pointed out that this event could not take place without the generous support from Ocean Club Resorts, Grace Bay Club, Royal West Indies Resort, Projetech, SurfSide Ocean Academy, Whole

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero named NBA’s Rookie of the Year

ORLANDO Magic star Paolo Banchero was awarded the Wilt Chamberlain Trophy as he was named the NBA’s Rookie of the Year on Tuesday

The top overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Banchero played and started in 72 games this season with the Magic, averaging a teamhigh 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.

He was the overwhelming winner in the voting for the Rookie of the Year award, claiming 98 out of 100 first-place votes from the panel of sportswriters and

broadcasters to finish ahead of Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams and Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler – the only other player to receive first-place votes.

During his stellar debut season, Banchero led all NBA rookies in scoring and minutes played.

He also ranked among rookie leaders in rebounding (fifth), assists (third), free throw percentage (seventh), steals (fourth) and blocked shots (seventh).

According to the NBA, Banchero is just the sixth rookie

in the last 50 seasons to average at least 20 points, six rebounds and three assists per game across a minimum of 50 games.

The 20-year-old scored at least 30 points six times this season, the most by any NBA rookie.

Previous recipients of the Rookie of the Year award include Kareem-Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James.

Banchero is the third Magic player to win the award after O’Neal in 1992-93 and Mike Miller in 2000-01. (CNN)

Health, Graef, Silver Palm Charters, Luxury Experiences, Hartling Group, Natural Trade Distribution, Finishing Touch, Marco Travel, and Caicu Naniki Vacation Adventures.

Essential providers of donated services and products include Red Cross, Big Blue, Stream2Sea Sunscreen, Business Solutions, LMNT Electrolytes, Island Roasters Coffee, Kix Creations, TC Crystal Water, and Blue Loos. The Race Directors also thank the Sports Commission, DECR, Marine Police, Provo Ambulance Service, and TCI Swim Federation for their valuable contribution

along with the many volunteers.

The “Race for the Conch” EcoSeaSwim is a TCI-registered nonprofit and donates proceeds to the Provo Children’s Home, TC Reef Fund, and The Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness TCI. As before, local residents will receive a 50% discount off the full online price. Hard copy applications will be available at the swim clubs and from Race Directors two weeks before the race.

More information about the race, including start times for the events, can be found at www. ecoseaswim.com.

Paolo Banchero has been named the NBA’s Rookie of the Year

As before, the now iconic international swim race will once again take place in the turquoise waters of Grace Bay. (www.ecoseaswim.com photo)

Sports National

Academy Eagles and Teachers FC win Island Drilling Ltd Boys and Girls U15 leagues

The Academy Eagles and Teachers FC were crowned the Boys and Girls U15 Beach Soccer League champions this week.

In the female battle, Teachers finished on nine points, while the Academy Eagles FC finished second on six points and Cheshire Hall FC on three points.

Briangelle Melses was named the Golden Glove winner and

Rosaria Talbot the League MVP.

Meanwhile, the Eagles also finished on nine points to win the Boys league.

The SWA Sharks placed second on six points and Teachers FC third on three points.

Idelin Gardiner ended the league as the leading goal scorer, while Samuel Harvey won the Golden Glove and Wepsdel Saintilus, the League MVP title.

Bruno slams half-century to lead Police to cricket win

Explosive batsman Garvin Bruno slammed a calculated half-century to lead Police to a 28-run victory against Omar CC when action in the Senior Men’s T20 Cricket Competition continued recently at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.

Police batted first and posted 137 with Bruno leading the charge. The opening batsman, who started his innings with back-to-back fours, stroked 57 runs from 47 balls.

Although it was a respectable strike rate, he was watchful throughout his innings. He faced some 25 dot balls and scored eight fours and two sixes.

For the first wicket, he and Damian St Ange put on 59 runs. St Ange finished with the secondhighest score (19 3X4s, 1X6).

After St Ange fell, Bruno had little help as he batted up to the

18th over.

Garrett Campbell and Dane Ritchie did the damage for Omar CC.

Campbell, 3-12 from four overs, got the wickets of Bruno and St Ange, while Ritchie rattled the middle order to finish with 3-21 from four overs. R. Chang, supported with 2-5 from 1.4 overs. With a reachable target, Omar were anticipating their first win, but their batsmen did not arrive. Opener H. Delovan led the attack with 21 from 32 balls, while three other batsmen managed to reach double figures, but none threatened.

In the end, they fell short at 1099 from 20 overs.

St Ange, who did the damage in the middle order, finished with 3-15 from his four overs, while opening bowler Calvin Aaron took 2-15.

Academy Eagles surged to victory in the Boys U15 league

Teachers FC finished on nine points in the Girls league

Action in the Island Drilling Ltd Girls U15 League

Police registered a 28-run win