In a momentous occasion that reverberated through the halls of the House of Assembly, now renamed Parliament, HE the Governor, Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam, signed a proclamation enacting a series of sweeping constitutional reforms that promise to reshape the political landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands
HE Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam makes the historic signing in the presence of Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood, Speaker of the House of Assembly Hon Gordon Burton, and Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick
Substantial benefits for TCIslanders as real estate licensing law passed
BY DELANA ISLES
This week, Parliament passed a long-awaited bill aimed at ensuring that the true beneficiaries of the booming real estate industry are Turks and Caicos Islanders.
The Real Estate (Brokers and Salesmen) Licensing Amendment Bill 2024 received unanimous support in the Assembly when it came up for its second reading in the House on Tuesday, December 10.
The bill was introduced by the Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development, Hon. Jamell Robinson. It amends the 2004 Ordinance to enhance compliance, oversight, and accountability in the real estate sector, ensuring that locally qualified and licensed professionals dominate the industry.
“This is one of our key industries,” the minister, a former real estate agent himself told the House, “Why we can’t sell our own land and houses? What we are doing now is only reinforcing what was intended 20 years ago, so we ain’t reinventing the wheel.”
Robinson emphasised that these amendments finally implement the provisions of the 2004 Ordinance.
Supporting the bill, Opposition Appointed Member Hon Alvin Garland remarked that the government should have introduced it sooner, considering they have been in office for almost four years and were aware of the industry’s
need for clear guidelines to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders are the primary beneficiaries.
He also suggested similar legislative actions should be taken with the Legal Professionals Law and the Electricians Law, stressing the government’s obligation to ensure that locals benefit from local industries.
OVERVIEW OF THE BILL
The bill includes restrictions and licensing requirements mandating that only licensed individuals or entities may engage in real estate transactions. It specifies that eligibility for licensing now explicitly necessitates Turks and Caicos Islander status for brokers and salesmen.
Regarding businesses, they must be 100% owned by Turks and Caicos Islanders; however, the bill provides specific transitional provisions for existing real estate businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands at the time of the Ordinance’s commencement.
existing businesses, which were licensed under the Business Licensing Ordinance at the time of the Ordinance’s commencement, to apply for a broker’s license within 12 months. These businesses will be considered compliant with the 100% local ownership requirement if they are at least 51% owned by Turks and Caicos Islanders.
For partnerships, a Turks and Caicos Islander business is defined as one where TCI Islanders are entitled to the majority of partnership profits. For corporate entities, TCI Islanders must
have beneficial ownership of the majority of voting shares or stock.
This section of the bill facilitates the integration of existing local real estate businesses into the new regulatory framework, providing them a pathway to compliance while ensuring local ownership.
Both individuals and companies must apply with proof of status, maintain an office, pass examinations, and pay fees.
Under Section 8, a salesman’s license is valid for three years, while a broker’s license is valid for 12 months, with renewals
contingent on compliance and payment of fees.
The bill also introduces specific obligations for reporting changes in business particulars and establishes a framework for fines for non-compliance.
Other provisions outline the procedures for appeals and suspensions. A new appeals process through the Magistrate’s Court allows for the review of licensing decisions. Suspension and revocation processes include notifications and a grace period for licensees to respond.
Additionally, the bill addresses corporate responsibility and offences, holding corporate officers personally liable for offences committed by their organizations.
Finally, the bill includes transitional provisions stating that individuals currently practising real estate without meeting the new Turks and Caicos Islander requirement can continue for up to 12 months, after which compliance will be mandatory.
Freeze on watersport equipment sale angers opposition
– calls made for immediate removal
BY DELANA ISLES
The Opposition is outraged by the moratorium on the issuance of new business licenses for watersports equipment sales and rentals (activity 358), labelling the move as ‘reckless and damaging’ to the livelihoods of young Turks and Caicos Islanders struggling to make ends meet.
On November 22, the Inland Revenue Department announced the freeze, which took effect immediately, apologising for any “inconvenience or disruption caused during this transitional period”.
However, the notice does not specify what “the transitional period” entails, a concern raised by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Edwin Astwood, in a statement last Thursday.
He questioned the motives behind the freeze: “This moratorium raises serious concerns about the motivations behind it. Is the Premier prioritising the interests of his investor circle over the aspirations of our people?
What secret deals are being made, and how much do the premier and his ministers stand to gain from restricting our people’s access to this vital sector?”
The Inland Revenue Notice also mentions that applications for business licenses under the reserved category of watersports
(activity 357) will continue to be accepted as normal.
Astwood believes that the freeze on new licenses for the sale and rental of watersports equipment is more than just an administrative measure; it disenfranchises
Opposition Leader, Hon. Edwin Astwood
The bill specifies that eligibility for licensing now explicitly necessitates Turks and Caicos Islander status for brokers and salesmen
Governor signs proclamation to usher in Constitutional reforms and new era of self-governance
BY OLIVIA ROSE
In a momentous occasion that reverberated through the halls of the House of Assembly, now renamed Parliament, Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, signed a proclamation on December 10, 2024, enacting a series of sweeping constitutional reforms that promise to reshape the political landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The reforms, years in the making, mark a significant stride towards greater autonomy and modernised governance for the British Overseas Territory.
The air was thick with anticipation as the Governor, addressing a special sitting of the House, underscored the historical weight of the occasion, particularly its coincidence with International Human Rights Day.
“Today, we gather at a defining moment in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands, made even more meaningful as it coincides with International Human Rights Day,” she declared.
“On this day, the world reaffirms the universal values of dignity, equality, and freedom—principles that resonate deeply in the words of Thomas Paine, who once said, ‘A constitution is not the act of a government, but of a people constituting a government; and a government without a constitution is power without right.’”
The Governor emphasised that the amended constitution embodies more than just legal tenets; it signifies a reaffirmation of shared values and aspirations.
She stated, “This amended constitution is more than a legal framework; it is a reaffirmation of our shared humanity. It reminds us that a constitution is not static— it is a living covenant between a people and their ideals, adapting as society evolves to ensure no one is left behind.”
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick echoed the Governor’s sentiments, highlighting the collaborative spirit that underpinned the reforms.
He expressed his gratitude to all those involved, stating, “I want to express gratitude to His Majesty’s government in the United Kingdom through the FCDO and also the honourable Leader of the Opposition and his colleagues on that side of the house…of course, those persons who have sat with the government across the table, the UK, but notably the opposition and the government sat together, and we spent countless hours.”
Misick also touched upon the long and arduous journey towards achieving these reforms, noting, “This journey was started since 2015, and so it’s been a long-fought process, but one that we end up being quite amicable and helpful to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“He further emphasised the importance of the reforms for future generations, stating, “The constitution belongs to every one of us, and we have to be objective as we move towards selfdetermination, as we move to craft this document so that it serves not only those of us who are here today but generations yet unborn.” Leader of the Opposition,
Hon Edwin Astwood, offered his perspective, emphasising the unity of the people despite political differences.
“I am reminded of the song from the late Lucky Dube, different colours, one people,” he remarked. “And I want us all to remember that during this time, even though we are in different political parties, we are still one people this constitution represents the collective will of our people.”
Astwood also envisioned the reforms as a stepping stone toward even greater autonomy. “Suddenly, I see it not as an end, but just as a beginning of what we want for our people,” he declared. “I think
that pushing towards full internal self-government and then on to independence should be the desire of all people.”
The proclamation ceremony attended by HE Deputy Governor Anya Williams and a full slate of House of Assembly members marked the culmination of a process that began in 2015, involving extensive consultations, public engagement, and negotiations with the United Kingdom.
The reforms encompass a wide range of changes, including the renaming of the House of Assembly to Parliament, the extension of the parliamentary term from four to five years, the abolition of
appointed members in favour of a fully-elected Parliament, and the introduction of a referendum clause that allows the Turks and Caicos Islands to decide on major national decisions, including the possibility of severing ties with the United Kingdom.
As the Turks and Caicos Islands embark on this transformative path, the full impact of these reforms on its political dynamics and future trajectory remains to be seen. However, the overwhelming support from across the political spectrum signifies a shared vision of a more autonomous, accountable, and prosperous future for the islands and its people.
HE Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood flanked by members of the House of Assembly following the signing of the proclamation (Photos: Office of the Governor)
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, and Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood
TRUMP’S PROPOSED DEPORTATION PLAN
The Turks and Caicos Islands has rejected plans from the Trump administration to accept deportees from the United States or any other nation who are not citizens of the territory. The Minister of Immigration, Hon Arlington Musgrove, stated that the islands will not accept deportees and that the country’s immigration policies are based on sovereignty, border control, and the well-being of its residents.
The Bahamas has also rejected the proposal. The Trump administration maintains that its immigration policies are aimed at securing the border and protecting American communities, but critics argue that these measures are often discriminatory, inhumane, and counterproductive.
The proposed deportation plan has been met with resistance from Caribbean nations and highlights the potential for diplomatic tensions between the United States and these countries.
Right answer given
Surely, Britain has the final say - but would not stop a stupid decision if TCI said - yes. Trump is merely showing his disrespect for others around - especially for weaker nations and territories. The right answer was given.
Friends not foes
Who knows? The Chinese are knocking on the Caribbean door. The USA won’t wish to be hated by these tiny islands. It’s more likely that they will want to check restore the GT base. Trump just blabbers deliberately to his supporters. He is actually very cautious in policy.
Testing the waters
Donald Trump is going to make the entire region uncomfortable. The TCI and other nations in the region are caught in the crossfire of the battle between USA Democrats and USA Republicans. One willingly brings everybody into their land, the other wants them out.
Trump is doing what’s right for the US or that great nation is going to crumble from within.
Not strategic
The bogey-man of Trump, his reputation and policy have sent the region and the world into panic, shockwaves, notwithstanding. There is the fear that Trump wants to send illegal migrants to the TCI and other regional nations as he takes office and to this end, he would have contacted the TCI government to further that agenda. It would appear that Trump’s transition team has yet to contact any regional government and if so, the Hon Chuck Musgrove and the Governor are now obliged in the interests of transparency to reveal the details of such a request.
Now it is being revealed that it is the outgoing Biden Administration, who let the migrants in, all and sundry, which is seeking to have certain migrants removed from US soil. It was an utterly stupid and highly illinformed decision for President Biden to open the floodgates to all who may come to the US. This open borders policy which has caught the world by storm is a dangerous trend. It made no sense in law, policy and even in the realms of a human rights agenda. They allowed criminals, terrorists and lawabiding citizens. Such a policy would make no sense for the people of the TCI.
It is now estimated that the US government must find some $360bn to get the migrants out of the US. It made the stance of the minister and his protégé, the Governor, rather pre-emptive in attacking the proposal even “before it would have been pitched”. With that kind of largesse,
it was possible for the TCI government to be transactional and demand terms on how a security package for the region would look. It is here that the government was pre-emptive in killing a proposal before they even heard it.
Whose policy is it?
Since this Governor came to the Turks & Caicos Islands, she has emerged like the former Governor, Nigel Dakin as Chief Whip, to keep them all in line, De FactoPremier and too close for comfort to the ministers. Most recently it is clear and “clearly observed” that she has taken full pro-PNP defender of the government in all areas related to ministerial portfolios, decisions the sole import of elected officials and despite the clear constitutional lines, she steps in.
First it was in the realm of finance where the Minister of Finance the Premier decided to offer a stimulus package, on the eve of elections, when the entire country is in election and the Leader of the PDM Opposition, rightfully called the timing of the decision out. It is always to be noted that the PDM Leader did not oppose the Stimulus but its timing. Instead of allowing the Premier and Minister responsible to respond to the remarks of the duly elected leader of the opposition, this Governor puts on her Pro PNP, undeniable Political shoes and answers the Leader of the Opposition again with a litany or remarks which can be fully disputed.
Next, remarks went around the world that the Transition Team of the Incoming US President, Donald Trump, was seeking to see deportees to the TCI among many other nations. The Minister of Immigration spoke to the matter and so did the Leader of the Opposition. Again, Her Excellency, the PNP’s latter-day cheerleader comes to the airwaves to respond in an undue, impertinent, and “shameless” response to the leader of the Opposition.
It is a matter of who is to speak for the elected government on day-to-day policy issues. Also, really, is this foreign policy, the realm of the Governor or immigration? Clearly a ministerial issue. The lines are blurred and they are stepping on each other’s toes where the visions, if any, are not clear.
Too comfortable
A trend is noted here where the “body language of the governor and the ministers” are both, a bit too close for comfort. There is a reality that she is “becoming one of them” and not objective enough to stay within the confines of her gubernatorial remit and she must be called out for this. This has more to do, with the Governor using her office as the “bully pulpit of the elected government” to respond to remarks made by the leader of the opposition on this “ill-fated and hapless”, Trump Refugee issue. Either an elected TCI Government is capable of expounding an immigration Policy or it is not! This is a Political System, PDM and PNP, both seeking to take on more ‘cosmetic powers’ in the next five years and as such, there must be limited gubernatorial scope in the making of a policy.
Governors must know their place and must be told to stay within their lines of function; whether it be PDM or PNP Government. The buck stops “here” on a minister’s desk, when it comes to Immigration Policy.
President-elect Donald Trump
Major road rehabilitation project set to transform Millennium Highway
Millennium Highway in Providenciales is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
This ambitious project, initiated by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, will expand the highway lanes and introduce sustainable features like solarpowered lighting.
The major undertaking, slated to begin immediately after a kickoff meeting on December 12th,
2024, and projected for completion within a year, will see the highway expanded from two lanes to four, stretching from the downtown roundabout to the Bay Road junction.
According to a recent statement issued by the Government, the project which has already been awarded and contracted, will encompass a comprehensive range of improvements aimed at enhancing safety, sustainability, and efficiency.
Key features include the installation of solar-powered
Where “here is” remains a matter to be defined and clarified. On this matter, the PDM leader of the Opposition has condemned the so-called Proposal, the Minister is of the same position, it is a Political consensus and there is no scope for the Governor to step in.
Stay in her lane
Her Excellency has created a ‘political furore and a constitutional crisis’ in the TCI, where she insists on taking on the Leader of the Opposition when the Premier and His ministers ought to be capable of doing so. Her position on issues, intent, and reality are beginning to be shown when certain issues are addressed. This Trump issue will soon blow away because it is dead on arrival but it is a matter for ministers. Imagine placing refugees in the TCI, ‘just for them to escape and form part of the TCI population fabric.
The issue of dealing with refugees is not that of a “Royally appointed Governor” but the role of a “duly” elected Minister of Immigration. Her Excellency will be well reminded that under her watch as “De-facto” Minister for the police and defence, crime, and border security have all gotten worse. In essence, “she seems distracted” and is not clearly focusing on the right strategy to address these matters.
It is either she is not seeking sufficient funds and resources from the Minister of Finance to deal with these issues or she is not detached enough to make a credible request. She, like previous governors, has also fallen down on seeking military, personnel and aid from the UK, CARICOM because again, she is not focused on the task at hand onto matters of a political nature which fall without her remit. It is time the Governor be told her place in these islands and to stay within it.
Hold one head
Donald Trump would play the bully tactic again. He hates to fail, but the TCI must stick to its principles. We are too tiny an island to get deportees. How about these liberal hippies fix the migrant problems? Instead of pouring cash into Israel to commit genocide, support Haiti, support Latin America. The US plays politics even when they sleep.
TCI needs to hold one head, PNP and PDM must always come together for the greater good.
street lighting, clearly marked roads and intersections with appropriate signage, dedicated lanes and pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, improved drainage systems, and enhanced road markings for better visibility.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon Jamell Robinson, emphasised the significance of the project, stating, “The launch of the Millennium Highway rehabilitation works underscores our commitment to improving the daily lives of our citizens and building a stronger foundation for economic development. These upgrades
will not only enhance safety and connectivity but also contribute to the overall quality of life of our people.”
While the project promises substantial long-term benefits, the Ministry has cautioned the public to anticipate temporary disruptions during the construction phase, including lane closures, detours, reduced speed limits, and potential delays during peak hours.
Motorists and pedestrians are urged to adhere to all signage and instructions from on-site personnel to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
The Ministry has pledged to provide regular updates
on the project’s progress and any changes to the schedule, ensuring transparency and open communication with the public throughout the duration of the construction.
Residents have since weighed in positively on the long overdue upgrades to the Millennium Highway which is a main thoroughfare for Blue Hills and Wheeland commuters.
As Providenciales gears up for this transformative infrastructure project, the Millennium Highway is poised to become a symbol of progress, safety, and sustainability in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
(OLIVIA ROSE)
Freeze on watersport equipment ...
CONTINUED FROM 4
Islanders, especially young entrepreneurs eager to contribute to the economy and secure their futures.
“What is going on here? Why is the Premier and his PNP government actively blocking our people from participating in a thriving industry that can create businesses, provide jobs, and stimulate our local economy? What colour is benefiting?” he questioned.
The party leader is demanding immediate action, urging the government to lift the freeze and allow people’s participation in
watersports equipment sales and rentals without obstruction.
He strongly believes this move is designed to sideline Turks and Caicos Islanders in favour of the personal interests of those in power or their associates.
“Our people deserve the chance to build businesses, create wealth, and contribute to the future of our country. It is time that we all see that the Premier and his government care nothing about prioritising the interests of the people they were elected to serve, always prioritizing their needs first,” he stated.
Astwood asserts that the government is failing to support
watersports businesses and instead is creating barriers and regulations that prevent the local population from thriving.
He emphasised that watersports are a vital part of the heritage and economy of the Turks and Caicos Islands and that empowering local entrepreneurs is essential for the nation’s growth and prosperity.
He urges: “We call on the Premier and his government to take responsibility, listen to the voices of our people, and reverse this misguided decision. The People’s Democratic Movement will not stand idly by while our people are denied the opportunity to succeed.”
Millennium Highway
Governor firmly rejects potential US deportee plan
BY OLIVIA ROSE
In a strong statement issued on December 6, 2024, HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam addressed recent media speculation suggesting the Turks and Caicos Islands could be used as a destination for deportees from the United States whose home countries refuse their return.
The Governor unequivocally stated that neither the Turks and Caicos Islands Government nor the United Kingdom Government have received any formal requests from the US regarding this matter.
“I confirm that neither the Turks and Caicos Islands Government nor the United Kingdom (UK) Government have received any formal request from the US Government or the President Elect’s transition team regarding
Human Rights Commission discusses insufficient access to education and housing in TCI
BY DELANA ISLES
To celebrate Human Rights Day this past Tuesday, December 10, the TCI Human Rights Commission hosted a community panel discussion titled “Voices for Rights,” addressing issues affecting marginalised and vulnerable members of society to inspire positive change for the future of the TCI.
This year’s theme is ‘Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now’.
Director Tabitha Smith stated that the Voices for Rights platform offers an opportunity for the to better understand the challenges faced by individuals and groups whose human rights are frequently overlooked or violated.
“Our work is vital because it not only encourages public awareness but also fosters the action that can lead to real change. When we listen, we learn; when we learn, we act; and when we act, we ensure that the human rights of all—especially the most marginalized—are respected and protected,” Smith said as she opened the discussion.
Tuesday’s discussion addressed issues such as barriers to education for children and the right to access adequate housing, alongside a standard of living that ensures
dignity for all.
One panel highlighted the insufficient school capacity in the territory, explaining how inadequate school facilities and overcrowded classrooms violate the fundamental human right to education.
The discussions were moderated by Vernal Lightbourne, with the first panel featuring Camisha Anderson Thomas, a Psychiatric Social Worker; veteran educator Mary Kemp; and Elisann Delancy, Curriculum Development Officer with the Education Department.
The second panel focused on the accessibility of an adequate standard of living, discussing how the lack of housing in the Turks and Caicos Islands poses challenges and violates the rights of citizens and residents.
Participants in this segment included Mike Clerveaux, Director of Housing and Community Renewal; King’s Counsel Carlos Simmons, who is the strategic lead for the Turks and Caicos Islands Informal Settlement Unit; and Sheena Mair, Senior Attorney at F Chambers.
Both issues - education and housing - are critical in the Turks and Caicos Islands and have faced significant challenges in recent years.
Governor Selvaratnam emphasized the territory’s unwavering stance on the issue:
“The Turks and Caicos Islands will not accept deportees from the US or any other nation unless they are our citizens.”
This firm position, she explained, is grounded in the principles of sovereignty, border protection, and the well-being of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Governor’s statement echoes the sentiments expressed by Minister of Immigration, Hon Arlington Musgrove, who condemned the reported US proposal as a violation of international norms and a disregard for the humanitarian implications for both the affected individuals and the receiving countries.
Minister Musgrove reiterated the Turks and Caicos’ refusal to accept non-citizen deportees and
highlighted the strain that irregular migration already places on the islands’ resources.
The stern rebuke from TCI leaders comes amidst growing concerns about potential changes in US immigration policy under the incoming administration.
While no official plans have been announced, media reports have suggested the possibility of the US seeking alternative destinations for individuals facing deportation.
The Governor’s forceful statement sends a clear message to the incoming US administration and the international community that the Turks and Caicos Islands will not be used as a dumping ground for unwanted migrants.
The territory’s commitment to upholding its sovereignty and protecting its citizens remains unwavering.
Carlos Simmons spoke about the work of the Informal Settlement Unit and their efforts to address the housing crisis in the Islands.
In a statement posted on her official Facebook page, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam commemorated the day, noting: “Human rights transcend borders, cultures, and ideologies, forming the foundations of peace, sustainable development, and a just society. As a nation, we have made significant progress in promoting and protecting these fundamental rights, but our journey is far from complete.”
The Governor emphasised that Human Rights Day is a powerful reminder to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals, uphold the rule of law, and secure the rights of future generations.
“Each of us shares the responsibility to champion justice and equality, working towards a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable world. We must stand united against discrimination, intolerance, and oppression in all forms.
“Today, let us remember that every act of kindness, inclusion, and respect strengthens the fabric of our communities throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands,” she added.
Teen allegedly robs business with fake gun
has been charged with offences stemming from a robbery committed with a fake gun last October.
Police said the teen, who lives in Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged on December 6 with robbery,
possession of an imitation firearm and malicious damage to property.
Officers of the Serious Crime Unit charged Ewing following investigations into a report made on October 12. He is expected to appear in court soon.
Nineteen-year-old Cody Ewing
Cody Ewing
HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam
this matter, nor is it a matter that has been raised with the Governor’s Office in any discussions with US or UK counterparts”, she stated.
As crime rises, PDM offers hope
– The murder rate stands at 46
BY DELANA ISLES
As the year draws to a close, the community of the Turks and Caicos Islands remains in the grip of fear, having recorded 46 murders. Although there was a brief decline in criminal activity in late November, the situation worsened again in December.
From December 6 to 10, the territory witnessed three violent murders in Providenciales.
On December 10, around 7 PM, police responded to reports of gunshots in the Mary Jane Lane area of Blue Hills. When officers arrived, they found nothing suspicious.
However, shortly after 10 PM, the Police Control Room received calls about a body spotted at the back of Dako Yard, Blue Hills. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man lying motionless on the ground. Investigators are looking into whether this suspected homicide is connected to the earlier reports of gunfire.
On December 8, at approximately 1 AM, police were called to a location in the Lower Bight area, where they found the
Leader of the PDM, Hon Edwin Astwood
lifeless body of a man.
Both incidents are currently classified as “possible homicides,” with no official confirmation from law enforcement.
In addition, police are actively investigating a murder in Five Cays that occurred on December 6 at around 10 PM. Responding to 911 calls regarding gunshots in Sandy Land, officers found a deceased man with apparent gunshot wounds.
The victim has been identified as Neil Rigby, a 52-year-old resident of the community.
These senseless acts of violence have compelled Hon. Edwin A.
Armed robbers terrorise residents in their homes
Last weekend, two families in Providenciales were terrorised by armed bandits who invaded their homes in separate incidents, injuring some occupants and stealing their belongings.
The first incident took place on the evening of Friday, December 6, around 8:30 PM. The police responded to a 911 call reporting a violent incident at a residence in Five Cays. Upon arrival, officers learned that a group of armed men had entered the home uninvited, assaulted the resident with a weapon, and then fled the scene in the victim’s black Chevrolet vehicle.
The second incident occurred shortly after 9 PM in Snake Hill, Blue Hills. In this case, a single gunman entered the victim’s home and robbed
the occupants. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and no shots were fired, according to police.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward and assist with the investigations. For anonymous tips, the public can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, reach the nearest police station, call 911, or get in touch with the Serious Crime Unit at 2311842.
Residents are also encouraged to download and use the Crime Stoppers P3 app to submit information securely and anonymously.
“The Royal TCI Police Force appreciates the public’s cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors.”
and our communities, shattered by grief and fear, “ Astwood stated.
“With the grim tally now at 46 homicides in 2024, we are staring into the abyss of a crisis that we simply cannot ignore.”
Astwood has pointed out the government’s apparent silence on the escalating crime situation, asserting that the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands deserve more.
“The premier’s continued silence in the face of this violence is a total betrayal of the trust placed in our leaders. Let us be reminded that he co-chairs the National Security Council, sharing that duty with Her Excellency the Governor, and they convene a meeting at least once a week.
“How can a government that claims to serve the people remain so disconnected from the harsh realities of their lives?”
Astwood, Leader of the Opposition People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), to speak out against the violence that is tearing families and communities apart.
“The recent murders in Five Cays and The Bight, alongside the tragic loss of a young man in Wheeland, are not just statistics, they are cries for help from families
Dockyard
He challenges the government to stand alongside the citizens of the territory during these grim times, similar to his approach during COVID-19 when he served as Minister of Health.
“The people of the Turks and Caicos Islands deserve more than empty rhetoric; they deserve a government that is proactive,
engaged, and transparent. We need a government that stands alongside our citizens, not a premier and a government that hides from the challenges we face.”
Astwood, who is vigorously campaigning to return to the government – this time as Premier of the TCI - emphasises the responsibility of leaders to be transparent and accountable, especially during a crisis, regardless of whether the news is good or bad.
He said amid the darkness that has enveloped Turks and Caicos society in 2024, the PDM offers a vision of hope.
“We believe in a Turks and Caicos where every individual can live without fear, where our communities can thrive, and where our families can feel safe in their homes.”
He stressed that this vision is rooted in actionable steps such as investing in community programs, implementing diversion programs, strengthening family support, eradicating poverty, fully resourcing law enforcement, enhancing police visibility, and fostering partnerships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
robber sentenced to nine years after citizens’ intervention
Josiah Parfait, 21, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being arrested by courageous bystanders in November 2023 for threatening a business owner at gunpoint.
On the night of November 25, 2023, at approximately 9 PM, Parfait entered a business on Bible Street in Blue Hills, Providenciales, brandishing a firearm and demanding money.
Reports indicated that he assaulted the shop owner and even fired several shots in a threatening manner. However, three individuals present at the establishment managed to disarm him and hold him until the police arrived.
Parfait was subsequently arrested and held in custody until his trial. A year later, on November 22, he changed his plea to guilty.
He appeared before Justice Jeremy Donne on Monday, December 9, for sentencing, receiving a nine-year sentence for both possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition, as well as an eight-year sentence for assault with intent to rob.
These sentences will run concurrently.
At the time of the incident,
Superintendent Dean Holden, head of the Crime, Safeguarding, and Public Protection Unit, had warned the public about the dangers of confronting armed individuals.
He said: “It is now known that the suspect was detained at the scene by three persons who
acted incredibly brave in the face of such a severe threat. Though their actions are commendable, the RTCIPF wishes to advise that persons should not put themselves at risk but instead call 911 or the closest police station.” (DELANA ISLES)
Josiah Parfait
Premier hails new constitution as a ‘significant step’ in TCI’s journey to political autonomy
BY OLIVIA ROSE
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick marked the enactment of the territory’s new constitution as a “significant step towards advancing the TCI constitution and the devolution towards political autonomy.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, December 11th, the Premier emphasised the significance of the amendments, highlighting their role in bolstering democratic representation and expanding domestic decisionmaking authority.
“Yesterday represented a significant step towards advancing the TCI constitution and the devolution towards political autonomy,” declared Misick, following the momentous signing of the proclamation by Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam enacting the territory’s new constitution.
He framed the reforms as an embodiment of the collective aspirations of the citizens for greater autonomy, equity, and transparency in the governance of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The landmark amendments
hailed as embodying the collective
promise to reshape the political landscape of the Turks and
Misick said: “They embody the collective aspirations of our citizens for increased autonomy, equity, and transparency in the
governance processes of our nation.”
The wide-ranging reforms, are poised to bolster democratic representation and amplify domestic decision-making authority.
Key changes include the renaming of the House of Assembly to Parliament, the extension of the Parliamentary term from four to five years, and the abolition of appointed members of Parliament.
The New Constitution clarifies the autonomous capacity of the Turks and Caicos Islands Cabinet with respect to domestic affairs, while outlining matters relating to external affairs that the Governor must delegate.
Further underscoring the commitment to enhanced governance, the Order establishes several new bodies, including a Cabinet Office and a Cabinet Secretary, a Police and Defence Service Commission, and an International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution.
It also lays the groundwork for the potential establishment of a Constitutional Commission.
Additionally, it makes provisions for existing entities such as the National Security Council, the TCI
Regiment, and the National Crest.
In a move towards greater financial autonomy, the regulation of international financial services has been removed from the Governor’s special responsibilities, with an independent body established to oversee the sector.
The New Constitution also empowers the holding of referendums on matters of national importance and introduces amendments to the composition and functions of the Electoral District Boundary Commission.
Premier Misick expressed his profound gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the process, including the FCDO, the Opposition, civil society, and partners who shared the vision for a stronger Turks and Caicos Islands.
He emphasized that the reforms are critical to continued growth and prosperity, urging all to uphold the principles of good governance, transparency, and inclusion.
As the Turks and Caicos Islands embarks on this new chapter, the sweeping constitutional reforms are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the territory’s political, social, and economic future.
TCI boosts public health emergency preparedness with infectious substance transport training
To bolster its capacity to respond to public health emergencies and safely handle infectious substances, the Turks and Caicos Islands has taken a significant step forward.
To this end, Mr Andrico Garland, Chief Medical Technologist at the National Public Health Laboratory, recently participated in a rigorous Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Infectious Substance Transport (IATA) Train the Trainer Regional Workshop held in Trinidad and Tobago, a recent statement from the Government said.
This intensive workshop, held from November 25th to 29th, 2024, was designed to standardize training across CARPHA member states, ensuring consistent and high-quality instruction in the safe transport of infectious substances and biological materials.
By developing a cadre of qualified local trainers, the workshop aims to facilitate incountry training for a broader range of individuals, ultimately promoting more efficient resource utilization.
The transport of biological
substances is a critical component of the World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations.
This regional IATA Train the Trainer workshop was deemed essential to enhance the capacity of CARPHA Member States (CMS) to transport these materials safely, whether for referral testing, pathogen identification, or validation purposes.
“Attending this workshop has provided me with invaluable knowledge on infectious
substances; the best practices when it comes to their safe packaging and handling and the proper documentation for transport,” Mr Garland stated.
He emphasised the significance of the training for the Turks and Caicos Islands, adding, “I am honoured to have gained this invaluable experience which I will share in order to certify colleagues so that the TCI will be in a better position to sustainably handle and transport any infectious substance
safely, and or respond to any Public Health Emergency.”
The workshop covered a wide range of critical areas, including safety and compliance, capacity building and professional development, crisis management and resilience, regional integration and cooperation, and public health and safety.
By participating in this initiative, the Turks and Caicos Islands is taking proactive steps to strengthen its public health infrastructure and
ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
This training not only equips local professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to handle infectious substances safely but also contributes to regional public health resilience and cooperation, as a result, the territory is better prepared to respond effectively to any potential public health emergency, safeguarding the health and security of the community.
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick
aspirations of the citizens,
Caicos Islands.
Mr Andrico Garland, Chief Medical Technologist at the National Public Health Laboratory, at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Infectious Substance Transport (IATA) training
Solar lights illuminate Providenciales
– as 60 new streetlights boost safety and sustainability
BY OLIVIA ROSE
In an effort to brighten streets and bolster safety, the Turks and Caicos Islands have embarked on a solarpowered transformation.
The installation of 60 stateof-the-art solar streetlights in Providenciales, funded by the European Union through the RESEMBID programme and spearheaded by the Energy and Utilities Department, marks a significant stride towards a more sustainable and secure future.
“These solar streetlights will make our streets safer, more secure, and more welcoming, especially at night.
“This project is an essential part of our ongoing efforts to improve the well-being of our residents and promote sustainable practices across the islands”, declared Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities.
Minister Knowles underscored that this initiative transcends the simple provision of light.
He stressed that it signifies a
commitment to environmental responsibility and resource management.
By harnessing the power of the sun, the Turks and Caicos Islands are reducing its carbon footprint
Former immigration officer charged in firearm conspiracy
In a shocking turn of events, former Immigration Officer Demardo Clare, 44, of Blue Hills, Providenciales, has been charged with Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm.
Clare appeared before the Supreme Court on December 10th, 2024, and was granted bail with strict conditions, including surrendering his passport and weekly check-ins at the Chalk Sound Police Station.
According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands, Police Force, the Serious Crime Unit alleges that Clare conspired with an individual outside the Turks and Caicos Islands to import illegal firearms into the country.
This alarming revelation has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about security and the potential for increased gun violence.
Clare is scheduled to reappear in court on February 7th, 2025, for a Sufficiency Hearing. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications
for both Clare and the wider community. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
Clare was previously dismissed as an immigration officer pending allegations of fraud, however, it is unclear how investigations into these allegations unfolded.
and dependence on fossil fuels, paving the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
Knowles emphasized that the project represents a transformative shift in the territory’s approach to infrastructure.
“In addition to improving safety and security, this initiative will drive long-term cost savings, reduce our reliance on imported energy, and contribute to environmental preservation. It is a clear demonstration of our government’s commitment to a more sustainable, energy-efficient future for the Turks and Caicos Islands”, he stated.
The benefits of this project extend far beyond the immediate glow of the streetlights as enhanced safety is likely to encourage greater community engagement, promote tourism, and stimulate economic activity.
Residents have already expressed their enthusiasm for the project, citing the improved aesthetics and sense of security it brings to their neighborhoods.
The solar streetlights themselves are marvels of modern engineering.
Equipped with advanced technology, they require minimal maintenance and offer reliable, long-lasting performance.
This ensures that the streets of Providenciales will remain well-lit and safe for years to come.
As the sun sets on the old ways, and a new dawn rises in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the solar streetlight project illuminates a path towards a more sustainable, secure, and prosperous future, demonstrating the power of innovation and collaboration to create positive change.
CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED
Do you have a subject of interest that you’d like to share with our readers?
Perhaps you’re a great cook and have created lots of delicious recipes that use local ingredients. Maybe you have ideas on how to save money when shopping and know where to find all the latest bargains. Or are you an entrepreneur who would like to share tips on setting up a new business?
We need regular contributors of 400 word articles on a variety of topics for our Lifestyle pages. Get in touch with us at the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and pitch your idea for a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly column. You will have your name in print along with your business contact details if requested. It’s a great way to share your knowledge and promote your business or start-up.
Solar street lights installed along South Dock Road, Providenciales
Hon Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities and a construction worker during the installation of the solar lights
Kiwanis Christmas tree light-up ushers in holiday season
The 30th annual Christmas tree lighting at Butterfield Square, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Providenciales, on December 8, was a delightful celebration that brought the community together in festive spirit.
The event featured a captivating display of the Christmas tree, beautifully adorned with lights and decorations that illuminated the square.
Children were thrilled as Santa Claus, accompanied by his cheerful helpers, distributed gifts, spreading
joy and excitement among the little ones.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter and smiles as families enjoyed various activities, including face painting, live entertainment that kept spirits high throughout the evening, and a raffle, giving participants a chance to win wonderful prizes.
This annual event not only marks the beginning of the holiday season but also strengthens community bonds, making it a cherished tradition for children and adults.
South Bank wins Gracebay Resorts dance contest
South Bank emerged victorious in the dance contest during the Westernthemed event hosted by Gracebay Resorts at Grace Bay Market on December 5.
This festive gathering celebrated the dedicated staff from various Gracebay Resorts, including South Bank, Rock House, The Strand, Grace Bay Club, West Bay Club, and Private Villa Collection.
Super-P served as the charismatic
host, captivating the audience and ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The evening was filled with excitement as awards were presented to the earliest arrival, as well as the best-dressed male, female, and couple.
A thrilling raffle added to the anticipation of the night, which culminated in a lively dance party where everyone let loose and celebrated together. (Shanice Lightbourne)
OPINIONS
Do not be too quick to respond to rumours
Some things just don’t make sense
INTRODUCTION
Sometimes people say things and we do not do a fact check on what is being said. We forward the information, and we respond to the information as if the information is true. Of course, we should be concerned about what we hear, but it is also important for us to make sure that we verify the information. Sometimes, we are just too quick to respond to rumours and hearsay and it is embarrassing when the truth comes out.
THE ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT THE DEPORTEES
NBC reported that based on sources within the Trump Administration, the Turks and Caicos is one of the countries listed as a possible option to entertain deportees if their home countries refuse to accept them. This announcement does not make any sense. The Turks and Caicos and all other countries have immigration laws and for anyone
BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR
Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.
to work and live here, they must go through the immigration process. Furthermore, why would a small country agree to take on immigrants that were deported from the USA. This does not make any sense. Obviously, if the individuals are Turks and Caicos Islanders, then we should not refuse them but if they are not, on what basis would they come here.
I may be wrong, but this announcement just sounds like a rumour to me. The USA engage with any other country to take deportees that their home countries
do not want. How can these home countries refuse their own citizens? If the rumours were true about TCI, where would these people stay in TCI? Where would they work? We are talking about thousands of people.
The Governor has already announced that they have not received any request from the US, so did Grenada and Panama but yet NBC is saying their source say they Trump team has already reached out to these countries, so this further corroborates my belief that this is just a rumour which
leads me to another point about individuals sharing their personal information on social media.
THE SHARING OF PERSONAL INFORMATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Too many people are sharing their personal information or information about other people’s businesses on social media. Sometimes, the information sounds so true and so we end up commenting on these posts without hearing the other sides of the story. However, if you were to investigate further and hear the other two sides of the story, you will realise that some of the information disseminated is very misleading or inaccurate.
CONCLUSION
Let us not be too quick to respond to information you do not know about. Remember, there is more than one side to a story. The best thing to do is say nothing if you
do not know anything about the situation. You can put your foot in your mouth and look like a fool for deciding or concluding based on one side of a story.
People need to be truthful. When you are sharing your story, say what you did and what the other side said or did. Do not give a one-sided story. In the case of the NBC announcement, notice they used the work sources. We do not even know if they had any sources. It can be a fabricated story, or “sources” could have sent this information to NBC just to see if anyone would buy into this concept. Of course, we cannot take anything for granted but why would the Trump Administration approach smaller countries such as the Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas to accept deportees? Make this make sense.
Finally, I like the response from Panama Government which stated they will not respond to assumptions and rumours.
The implications of a nuclear or global conventional warfare: Is the TCI prepared?
The darkest hours of the civilized world are fast approaching! In the Middle East Israel has dealt a crippling blow to Iran and its proxies, and now, they have escalate their nuclear programme and vowed to wipe Israel off the map. Meanwhile, a huge war is brewing in South East Asia over the chip-making giant – Taiwan. But the grandest of all is the Russia-Ukraine war! For now, Putin’s ‘back is up against the wall’ following Ukraine’s using Western advanced storm shadow and ATACMS missiles and once again, Putin has iterated the threat of using nuclear weapons.
Considering all these wars combined and those looming,
BY D MARKIE SPRING
and especially, a nuclear attack; all these phenomena promised to disrupt the current world order and so, what does this mean for the TCI?
First, a nuclear war would have a devastating impact of the environment and following a detonation; scientists say that the
world could fall under a nuclear winter, resulting in widespread famine.
They say that atmospheric soot loadings from burning cities would spread across the Earth, which would reflect sunlight back into space. This absence of sunlight could dwarf crop growth.
If crop yield is stunted, this suggests that livestock would also be affected from lack of food supply and eventually they would die.
Not only would this kill off crops and animals, it could limit terrestrial and aquatic food production.
Since the TCI is big on fisheries, not only would this affect the local market and consumption,
but it would significantly reduce the exports of marine foods to international countries.
This too, would engender health problems, not so much the effects from UV radiation, but the reduction in crop yields would certainly reduce the amount of calories and protein intake and this could lead to malnutrition and eventually mass starvation here at home.
On a global scale, a nuclear detonation would shut down international trade; therefore, hungry nations will ration food for their own people, and so, the million-dollar question is, how can TCI society adapt to such a devastating environment?
First, livestock could be killed off en masse to sustain the population for at least the first year, while diverting all livestock feed to human consumption.
Even if some countries were still able to export some of their foods, for the sake of driving their economies, prices would be extremely high and in some cases, unaffordable.
Therefore, greenhouses could be deployed to mimic the temperature and humidity of the environment inside, which can assist in growing healthy nutritious foods, during environmental setbacks.
And implementing strategic petroleum reserves that could last for at least one year is fundamental to survival in such a case.
Not withholding, water is the essence of life and the availability of constant supply of fresh, clean water is paramount. Therefore, policymakers must ensure that relevant technologies are acquired.
The world is not the same place we knew it to be decades ago and the trend shows that the entire globe is catapulting headlong into chaos at every level.
Knowing this, some countries are assessing these shifts and developing strategies for survival in a world with limited food, water, energy and a deteriorating environment. Even so, some individuals are planning ahead. Meanwhile, some countries are procrastinating. My question is, is the TCI preparing?
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.
A prayer of protection for the Turks and Caicos Islands
Based on the Contemporary English Version of Ephesians 6:1118 - Put on all the armour that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil’s tricks. 12 We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world. 13 So put on all the armour that God gives.
Then when that evil day comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm. 14 Be ready! Let the truth be like a belt around your waist, and let God’s justice protect you like armour. 15 Your desire to tell the good news about peace should be like shoes on your feet. 16 Let your faith be like a shield, and you will be able to stop all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Let God’s saving power be like a helmet, and for a sword use God’s message that comes from the Spirit. 18 Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God’s people.)
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.
Father, I lift up the Turks and Caicos Islands to you, asking for your divine protection and strength over this nation. You have given your followers your armor to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy, and I use it to clothe myself and those of your Kingdom in this nation in your protection. I also use it to guide my prayers for the spiritual protection over this nation.
THE BELT OF TRUTH
Father, let the truth of Your Word be like a belt around the waist of those in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Let the culture be a truth culture. Let the laws of the land promote and sustain Your truth and justice. Protect this nation from
lies, deception, and confusion, and establish it firmly in Your truth. May Your Word guide its leaders and citizens in wisdom and justice, ensuring they walk in paths of righteousness.
THE BREASTPLATE OF JUSTICE (RIGHTEOUSNESS)
Lord, let Your justice and righteousness be the pillars upon which this nation is built. Cover the hearts of the people and the decisions of its leaders with Your holiness, shielding them from the temptation of corruption, division, and fear. Let justice flood the island and righteousness like a never-ending wave sweep across these islands.
THE SHOES OF THE GOOD NEWS OF PEACE
Father, let the desire to share Your good news of peace be like shoes on the feet of those who belong to Your Kingdom in this nation. Plant the Turks and Caicos Islands firmly in Your peace, and let its people be messengers of hope and reconciliation. In every community, may Your peace reign, bringing harmony, joy, and unity to this land.
THE SHIELD OF FAITH
Lord, let faith be like a shield over the Turks and Caicos Islands, extinguishing every flaming arrow of death by violence, despair, and destruction sent by the enemy.
Strengthen Your saints’ faith, helping them trust in You and Your promises, even in challenging times. Surround them with Your power and protection, keeping them steadfast and secure.
THE HELMET OF SALVATION
Father, let Your saving power be like a helmet protecting the minds of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Guard them from thoughts of defeat, depression, anxiety, confusion, and despair. Renew their minds daily with the hope of Your salvation, reminding them that You are their Deliverer, and their future is secure in You.
THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT
Lord, let Your message, which comes from the Spirit, be the sword that this nation wields. Equip the churches, leaders, and communities to declare Your Word boldly and to speak truth in the face of opposition and darkness. May Your Word be active and powerful,
CONTINUED
Your life in number
Before you throw out another vaguely “tomorrow”, as if it is a certainty, just remember that there are only so many “tomorrows” in one’s life. With an average life expectancy of 79 years old, you have only 28,835 days alive. This is sad but very true.
In the midst of a chat, the topic of average life expectancy surfaced, and shortly after, we couldn’t help trying to break down what exactly you get out of 79 years. Between sleep, work, sex, and social media, how much of these 79 years, do you truly enjoy?
This is how you spend it.
IN BED
Throughout our lives, we spend an enormous 26 years sleeping. Surprisingly, we also spent 7 years trying to sleep. That is 33
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
years or 12,045 days spent in bed.
AT WORK:
Whether it is your daily grind or that dream career, our jobs take up a lot of our time: to be exact, 13 years and 2 months on average or 4,821 days
SCREEN:
After all that hard work, we ought to catch up on social media
and settle down to our favourite shows: What does this add up to? 11 years and four months or 4,127 days in total. TV equates to eight years and four months and social media a shocking three years total.
EATING:
Arguably one of life’s greatest pleasures. We love eating so much that we spend almost four and a half years doing it. What
are some other life’s greatest pleasures? This may well be the topic for next week.
HOLIDAYS:
Three years, one month and three weeks
It’s time to pack up and jet off to your favourite holiday destination. Whilst some of these numbers need to go down, this definitely needs to go up. 1146 days of vacation is just not cutting it.
ROMANCE:
One year and 30 days
Romance is not dead, it’s just slow, 395 days is shockingly low? Anyone else think this?
SCHOOL:
We often remember school as a huge part of our upbringing but we spend around only 334 days
total in primary and secondary. Do the math.
THE REST:
After all the essentials, like working, eating and being entertained, we are left with all of the rest.
HERE ARE THESE EXTRAS:
235 days queuing
115 days laughing 136 days getting ready (women) 46 days getting ready (men) 2,997 days for commuting, cleaning, telling stories, running races, reading and everything in between.
Sleep well and live well. These findings are from Tony, published in the Daily Infographic on the 23rd of Jan 2023.
What are your thoughts? Do share on lousedens@gmail. com?
21
OPINIONS
When TCI-elected representatives prioritise others above their own people
Dear Editor,
Many of our Turks & Caicos fellow citizens are applauding our current local government elected representatives sounding ‘JohnWayne-like’ about not accepting deported migrants from America if President-elect Trump attempts to dump them on our shores.
Not me. These people have, over the past few years engaged in a ‘fire sale’ of selling our country’s assets, and making deals with anybody flashing a few pitiful dollars, that they quickly pocket. How can anyone be that naïve to think that if this incoming US Administration flashes them some dollars for accommodating them in this action they would not jump for it? That is absolutely not their history. These guys will ‘sell their Grandma’ and throw in the family rooster as a bonus. Our Tourist
Board; the Coast Guard Station in South Caicos; ridiculous rights to Carnival; our Crown Land ...: and God knows what. You think they would not jump at this? Then there is the part where the U.S is talking about using leverage on us (and the Bahamas) to comply with their wishes because they have ‘privileged’ us by allowing us to use their dollar as legal tender. If that comes into play, do we have any track record of this PNP Administration standing up to any such thing? The PDM-of-old, yes.
But this line-up? No. That is the sad history of those currently at the helm of our T&C.
Now add this part into the mix. T&C is a so-called British territory, in which they are the Administering Authority and Overseer, though I have no idea what they ‘administer’ or ‘oversee.’ What if the British
were offered something by the incoming US Administration? Like the Polaris missiles for their Navy, along with undisclosed huge sums of money in 1968, to facilitate a U.S base on Diego Garcia. They promptly sold out the indigenous Chagossians there, making them refugees overnight, and dumping them on a wharf in Mauritius. Only a few months ago, after decades of ongoing court battles, these people got clearance, and limited at that, to return home. How revolting, criminal, and inhumane.
So, if such a similar offer was made to the British by the U.S, would not those unscrupulous ‘Overseers’ jump over Mount Everest to make it happen? In fact, their strange silence on this led one citizen, former Chief Minister Hon. O. O. Skippings, to write to social media an article on the matter
[please find it]. Another citizen promptly forwarded an email to them and their FCO, warning them about any sly-fox action they might be ‘dreaming up.’ Here it is: ‘To all concerned: As someone who calls Turks & Caicos home, and who routinely petitions in that arena at the United Nations my NGO group, Turks & Caicos Forum (TC Forum) and I, have this to say to you: “As the ‘so-called’ Overseeing Authority and Administering Power of my home, you would be making a most serious mistake if your UK government in any way, shape, or form, were to hide behind the curtain and approve ‘illegals’ deported from the U.S, some born in America, to be dumped on our Turks & Caicos shores. This is not Diego Garcia, and what you did to the Chagossians.”’
Once again, how can we expect any unshakable stance from this current T&C leadership when, not long ago, leader Washington Misick stated, in a newspaper article, to have ‘taken issue’ with the British for not protecting our borders against illegal migration, and not providing us with competent internal security. If you can believe this the man, in this instance, called for the British to provide ‘boots on the ground’ to deal with this. What? ‘Heavens No!’ We never want British ‘boots’ on our T&C soil. Their so-called ‘oversight’ is unpleasant enough. Rather than call for such nonsense, he and his Cabinet should have long ago filed a case against this Administrative Power for not living up to their requirement in our
Artificial or real?
Eco-friendly tips for your Christmas tree!
The best option is the simplest: Go cut your own Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia) on the beach.
The Christmas bells are already ringing, which means that this long-awaited time of year is almost here. An infinite number of sweet moments are shared in the warmth and traditional activities are on the calendar. Among these pleasures, the classic decoration of the Christmas tree. However, for some time now, a debate has arisen among environmentalists. Should we opt for an artificial tree or a natural tree? This is what a large majority of environmentally conscious people are asking themselves. Those who value the use of an artificial tree over a natural one find themselves trapped by choices that can both harm the environment.
What the experts say:
Research teams have shown that artificial trees can have a carbon footprint three times higher than natural trees. As a result, climate change is still a risk and natural resources are deplored. The answer is therefore very clear, the natural Christmas tree is the lucky winner of this debate. But, not so fast! If you decide to keep the artificial tree for a minimum
COLUMN DENIS BELANGER
Denis Belanger is a landscaper, he trained in Canada in landscape architecture and studied the Art of Garden in Italy. He arrived in the TCI in 2008, where he first worked for a local company before opening his landscaping company. He then had a personal experience with Property Management, and his love and passion for his new experience gave him the drive to open his company Turks & Caicos Villas and Gardens
of six years, then this is the choice you should make.
And obviously on Island, to buy a natural tree or an artificial, both are imported since this kind of natural tree does not grow here, unless you go for the Australian Pines as I mentioned above, which grow like weeds on the beaches, they may not have the same splendor, although everything is subjective, and they have the quality of being completely green for the environment, since they are
here and don’t need transportation. Even if you decide to buy a natural or artificial Christmas tree, there are actions you can take to ensure that your tree is environmentally friendly. If you opt for artificial, choose the type of plastic your tree is made of. Some can be very harmful to the environment and your health. Among other things, we invite you to avoid trees made of PVC. And try to use it for the next 20 years ishhh. I also understand that even Christmas trees are victims of
fashion, green, white, pink, with fake snow, wide, slender, with little polka dots…
Once Christmas is over, if you opted for a real tree, here are some creative and eco-friendly ways to get rid of it.
● Firewood: Remove the branches and cut the trunk into logs that will be used as firewood.
● Homemade mulch: Reduce your tree to chips using a shredder to make mulch for flowerbeds or your compost bin.
● Feed the goats just make sure you have nothing left on it, and no fake snow on the tree.
On a personal note, I received as an inheritance an artificial birch tree that serves as a Christmas tree, with pretty lights built in. I love it so much that it stays in place all year, and I put a few stars on it during the holidays. And you can decorate it for any occasion, Christmas, Easter, Halloween, birthday party. Unfortunately my birds and my kitten got the better of it this year, and this will be its last Christmas.
And for a “Green natural” Christmas decoration, get inspired by the Nordic style: an interior decorated in simplicity and embellished with plant elements such as:
● Fir branches
● Pine cones
● Wooden beads
● Cinnamon sticks
● Dried lemon slices
But everything is possible, all you need is imagination of Christmas magic, you can also integrate objects that you already have at home such as cake molds, glass yogurt pots filled with little starfish, homemade dolls, etc… The rule is simple: we use what we already have and what is offered to us by the environment to decorate our interior (PS: it’s time to take a walk in the bush to find pretty decorative elements…).
The Turks & Caicos Villas team and I wish you a very Happy Holidays and God bless you all.
If you have any questions about property management, or if you are looking for a company to take care of your property, do not hesitate to contact us, Turks and Caicos Villas and Gardens at denisbgarden@ gmail.com you can also visit us at www.turks-and-caicos-villas.com and also on our Facebook page Turks & Caicos villas
If you are a restaurateur, craftsman, sports company or anything else related to tourism and would like us to write about you, do not hesitate to contact me.
Peddling disinformation and misinformation
Dear Editor, Hon. Edwin Astwood issued a panic-driven statement falsely alleging that the Turks and Caicos Islands would soon begin accepting U.S. deportees following discussions with the Trump transition team. NBC News’ misreporting initially fueled these claims. Yet, the opposition leader knowingly spread panic and fear after the Minister for Border Control issued a press release correcting the misinformation. I must commend Hon. Musgrove for being swift and decisive in setting the record straight, his clarifications striking through the confusion like a lightning bolt.
Who exactly is the PDM trying to fool? Their latest fear fest rages like a storm cloud, dark and booming but utterly empty of rain. They dangle fear before you, hoping you’ll leap into their arms. Doesn’t it feel like they’re whispering ghost stories around the campfire, expecting you to tremble at every snap of a twig?
Moving forward, this socalled “New Immigration Deal”
BY AUDLEY ASTWOOD
is nothing more than their own made-up boogeyman. How is it that the PDM talks nonstop about secret meetings and shady deals yet never offers a single scrap of actual proof? If their claims were valid, wouldn’t the evidence be right before us like the sun on a clear sunny day?
Just recently, Her Excellency the Governor set the record straight in an official statement, confirming that neither the Turks and Caicos Government nor the UK Government has received
any formal request from the U.S. regarding such deportations. She clarified that the Turks and Caicos Islands will not accept deportees from the US or any other nation unless they are our citizens.
As we consider these points, look at their dramatic warnings. “Deported criminals” washing ashore like rotting driftwood, “resources collapsing” as if our schools and clinics were made of sugar and left in the rain. Are we so weak and helpless that we’d buckle under every international breeze? The Governor’s statement directly contradicts this fearmongering.
The opposition leader acts like the PNP sits hand-in-hand with foreign leaders, plotting behind locked doors. False! The PNP is working hard to keep our islands secure and stable. If the PNP were so reckless, why do our communities still stand strong, our children still laugh, and our economy still show promise? The Governor’s office, a neutral and respected authority, reinforces that there has been no secret plan,
no shady agreement, and no quiet deals to endanger our borders.
Looking deeper, the PDM’s solution is to scare you into submission. Like a fisherman with no net, they wander about, hoping to catch something— anything—to make you trust them. But have they offered genuine plans? Have they invested in modern border technology? Have they built reliable partnerships or forged ahead with sincere diplomacy? Don’t they owe you a detailed vision rather than tired old tales?
Equally important, the leader of the opposition tosses words around as if they were carnival tickets: “catastrophic,” “collapse,” “crisis.” Aren’t these words just cheap fireworks, bright at first spark but gone in a flash? If Hon. Astwood understood the true heartbeat of our people, wouldn’t he spend more time listening and less time shouting?
In contrast, Governor’s office clearly stated that our islands will not be forced into dangerous
arrangements, crushes the false narrative. The facts are the PNP has pushed to strengthen border technology. They’re engaging with global partners to ensure that any policy fits the shape of our islands’ values and goals. Doesn’t the PDM’s silence on these improvements speak louder than their empty cries?
Hon Astwood’s antics are simply a desperate attempt by the party to stay relevant. It’s nothing but a drama of fear, which covers the lack of real policies. Could PDM be concerned about our islands if their policies focused on innovation, cooperation, and strong leadership? The fact remains that they are consumed with destruction, vocal opposition, and fabrication as opposed to construction, hearing, and problem-solving. This is not the posture of leadership. This is the modus operandi of a desperate group whose actions and words are damaging to the overall growth of our nation.
Audley Astwood
When TCI-elected representatives prioritise ...
CONTINUED FROM 20
T&C Constitution, and UN Article 73, to see that they carry out these functions to the letter. So, with this
brand of behaviour can we really count on this current PNP Govt and its leadership in this situation?
Now there is this matter: Misick’s office has, during the
A prayer of protection for the Turks and ...
CONTINUED FROM 19
breaking down strongholds and bringing light into every corner of these islands. Let blessings come forth from the mouths of those who live here.
PRAYING
IN THE SPIRIT
Father, raise up men and women who will commit to praying for the Turks and Caicos Islands without ceasing, bringing requests to You in the power of the Spirit. I pray for wisdom for its leaders, unity among its people, and protection over its land and resources. Keep
this nation alert to spiritual dangers, and may its people remain steadfast in prayer, interceding for one another and seeking Your will in all things.
In Christ, we declare that the Turks and Caicos Islands are under Your care, Father. Let this nation stand firm, clothed in the full armour You provide, ready to face any challenge with courage and faith. When the battle is over, may it still be standing firm in Your truth, justice, peace, and salvation. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
past week, posted an outreach survey form of some kind to the T&C Diaspora not residing at home. Presumably, an attempt to evaluate sentiment on voting in Absentee Balloting, something they are practically denied due to ridiculous and nonsensical requirements. I have absolutely no interest in participating in this exercise. Why? And why did the outreach come from this office and not the Elections Board, Office of Statistics, or Status Card agency? Is this some attempt by him and his office to pretend, with elections closing in, that they are suddenly open to this possibility for citizens not at home? Or might it be some ruse to get information on this potential voting bloc, see that they might not benefit him and his party, and promptly discard the effort? Either way, I, or any T&C Islander living abroad, do not need Washington Misick to ‘give consideration’ to my being able to vote in my home. I was born there just as he was, and it is a gross violation that he is able to enjoy this privilege and I, all T&C Islanders residing abroad, are not. Moreover, the whole thing amounts to a mountain
of nonsense. Britons, having ‘swarmed’ all over the world from their colonial ‘take all that’s not nailed down’ days, have been easily facilitated to vote in Absentee Balloting in British elections the same year World War II ended. That would be 80 years next year. We are a ‘socalled’ British territory that they supposedly ‘administer.’ How are our citizens abroad, up until now, not able to vote in our country’s elections? Britons must have been, all this time, laughing at our local leadership as not being very smart, as they carry out their decades-long ongoing deception on us and our people. My position has been a continual insistence on T&C citizens abroad being allowed to vote in local elections. But here is what makes this matter even more outrageous. This sitting PNP government is hot off just having pushed through an Asylum Bill. What nonsense. Our T&C is not an independent country, but a struggling nation that is supposedly a ‘dependency’ of the UK. As such we, under no circumstances, should be providing asylum for anyone. This is a gross violation of UN Article 73. That Bill should be
torn up and dismissed immediately because all it does is disempower our country, and ‘expand the franchise.’ Two long-sought-after goals of the British in our home even as they, and their Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, forge ahead with deporting asylees on British soil to African nations other than where they came from. Can we be that foolish to pass such a Bill given these circumstances? And is the current leadership not showing itself to be sabotaging its people, and rating as the worst brand of ‘representatives’, in passing this Bill, and -THEN- looking at T&C Diaspora issue. Quite possibly the British ‘overseers’ advised our T&C ‘champion leaders’ to pass the Asylum Bill first, and then give attention to the T&C Diaspora and their voting prospects. Now do you see how dangerous these elected representatives can be, when they make more pressing an issue involving asylees and refugees than they do their own people? With such a display by these sitting officials, we should be more than worried about their ability to lead us anywhere.
Yours truly
Ben Roberts
Regional
Jamaica introduces law in Parliament to remove British monarch
Jamaica is one step closer to becoming a republic and moving away from the British monarchy.
The Government this week introduced in Parliament a law to replace King Charles III with a ceremonial Jamaican president.
The bill was tabled by Constitutional Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte.
She said the tabling of the bill marks progress towards reforming the Constitution to achieve national goals.
Alongside the republic transition, the bills propose to entrench the Electoral Commission of Jamaica in the Constitution, incorporate national symbols and emblems, clarify Jamaican citizenship criteria, and strengthen constitutional amendment procedures.
But, approval for the law faces hurdles as the Government and Opposition disagree over Jamaica’s final court.
The Opposition has been insisting that the United Kingdombased Privy Council must be removed at the same time that the monarch is being replaced, while the Government has argued that there is no consensus on the issue
and the decision on the court is set for a later phase in the reform process.
The bill will sit on the table of Parliament for three months before
moving to a debate in both Houses.
A joint-select parliamentary committee will be established to review and report on the bill.
(Jamaica Gleaner)
Bahamas: Six FNM MPs suspended from House of Assembly
Six members of the Opposition have been suspended from the House of Assembly on Wednesday.
Opposition leader Michael Pintard, deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright, Adrian White, Kwasi Thompson, Iram Lewis and Adrian Gibson have been suspended for two sittings.
This follows the disruption at the previous sitting that saw Shanendon Cartwright throwing the mace from the window of the House.
Speaking outside the House prior to the suspension, FNM leader Michael Pintard said: “We see this as a continuation of their attempt to silence the Bahamian
people. We see this as an attempt by them seeking to avoid transparent investigation by qualified persons locally and internationally looking into corruption not only among a few in the security forces but also in government as well. The people will not be silenced.
“We intend to continue to put on the record that the Prime Minister is causing tremendous reputational damage to The Bahamas by his failure to reassure Bahamians and reassure the international community that his administration and those that he presides over are not engaged in illegal or corrupt practices.” (Tribune242)
Bahamian PM: US hasn’t given corrupt official’s ID
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis appeared frustrated on Tuesday by US officials’ failure to identify an unnamed high-ranking Bahamian politician mentioned in a recent federal indictment alleging that police and government officials helped smuggle tons of cocaine through The Bahamas to the US.
According to the US Southern District of New York’s explosive indictment, an unnamed politician was allegedly expected to authorise Bahamian law enforcement to facilitate a $2m cocaine trafficking scheme to the US.
“I told them to disclose to me the named politician,“ he said during a luncheon with local pastors about how to revitalise the role of churches in Bahamian society. “They haven’t done it yet. My colleagues don’t know.”
“They’re painting The Bahamas as a bunch of corrupt government officials.
“I asked them to identify who they are. Are they public servants? We do have bad apples amongst ourselves, and we got to root them out where we find them. But on several occasions, I asked them to
help me identify them, and they haven’t. They’re prepared not to let me know who they are, but they’re prepared to indict them.”
One pastor raised concerns about how The Bahamas’ international reputation could be affected by the lack of information government and police officials have about the people responsible for the alleged crimes.
“There’s no doubt that it’s tarnishing to The Bahamas a bit and unfairly so,” Mr Davis
said, adding that he won’t let the country’s reputation be tarnished unfairly. “I’ve met with them and told them my position on it.”
He noted that he nor Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander, who recently resigned, had any knowledge of the US indictment before it was exposed, suggesting he was just as shocked as the public.
He said he contacted the former Commissioner of Police, senior officers, and the US Chargé
d’affaires, all of whom indicated to him that they were unaware of the allegations in the indictment.
Nonetheless, he maintained that the country’s standing on the “international scene has never been better”.
Mr Davis said when making allegations, the US isn’t aware of local political parties but sees The Bahamas as just a little “black country.”
He said the country is left struggling to defend itself against
major allegations.
At one point, in response to a pastor’s question, Mr Davis played a CBS news recording where dozens of US law enforcement leaders — sheriffs, captains, lieutenants, chiefs of police — were allegedly caught buying and illegally selling firearms across 23 US states, Puerto Rico and Washington, DC.
Mr Davis said he did not play the audio to excuse the shocking allegations against The Bahamas but suggested the US is familiar with similar challenges.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell told reporters that the government is still awaiting a response from US officials to a diplomatic note his ministry sent requesting more details about the unnamed Bahamian politician.
US officials have not arrested all Bahamians named in the federal indictment, some of whom are believed to be in The Bahamas. Mr Mitchell declined to discuss possible extradition proceedings, noting he is the minister responsible for such matters.
Marlene Malahoo Forte
The empty bench after the suspension of six FNM MPs
The Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis
Regional News
Haiti gang kills 184 people over witchcraft accusation, UN says
At least 184 people were killed over the weekend in one of the poorest neighbourhoods of Haiti’s capital, the United Nations says, with human rights groups attributing the killings to a personal vendetta by a local gang leader.
Nearly 130 of those who were killed were more than 60 years old, the UN said on Monday, adding that gang members burned bodies and threw them into the sea.
The massacre was “orchestrated by the leader of a powerful gang” in Cite Soleil, a sprawling slum by the sea in the capital, Port-auPrince, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk told
reporters in Geneva.
“These latest killings bring the death toll just this year in Haiti to a staggering 5,000 people,” he added.
Haiti’s government condemned the “massacre” as act of “unbearable cruelty.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on the Haitian authorities “to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that perpetrators of these and all other human rights abuses and violations are brought to justice,” his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.
Two local human rights groups
Dominican Republic records largest cocaine seizure
Authorities in the Dominican Republican say cocaine discovered in the country’s largest-ever seizure was headed to Europe.
Hidden in a banana shipment, officials found 9,500kg of the drug at a port in the capital, Santo Domingo.
The cocaine was hidden in 320 bags with an estimated street value of $250 million (£196 million).
At least 10 people linked to the port are under investigation with early investigations showing the bananas had arrived from Guatemala, according to the National Drug Control Directorate.
Communications chief Carlos Denvers said: “Many unknown individuals tried to transfer the drugs to another container that would be shipped on a vessel to Belgium.”
The haul far exceeds the 2,580kg
Haitian government, racked by political infighting, has struggled to contain the gangs’ growing power in and around the
said on Sunday that Wharf Jeremie gang leader Jean Monel Felix, alias “King Micanor”, ordered the massacre after his child became sick.
Felix had reportedly sought advice from a Vodou priest who accused elderly people in the area of using witchcraft to harm the child, who died on Saturday afternoon, the National Human Rights Defence Network (RNDDH) said.
Vodou is a religion that was brought to Haiti by African slaves and blended with Christianity to become a mainstay of the country’s culture.
Gang members killed at least 60 people on Friday and 50 on Saturday using machetes and knives, according to the RNDDH.
“The gang’s soldiers were responsible for identifying victims in their homes to take them to the chief’s stronghold to be executed,” the Committee for Peace and Development (CPD), a Haitian civil rights organisation, reported.
Densely populated Cite Soleil is among the poorest and most violent areas of Haiti. Tight gang control, including the restriction of mobile phone use, has limited residents’ ability to share information about the latest killings.
The UN in October estimated that Felix’s gang numbered about 300 people and operated in a densely packed slum area known as a gang stronghold between the capital’s main port and the international airport.
Felix is allied to the Viv Ansanm (Living Together) gang coalition, led by a former policeman, Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, that has taken over large parts of the capital and some rural areas in a coordinated offensive that began in February.
The latest massacre “demonstrates both the cruelty of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition and the deadly impact of impunity”, said William O’Neill, the UN’s human rights expert for Haiti.
The Haitian government, racked
by political infighting, has struggled to contain the gangs’ growing power in and around the capital.
The Haitian National Police did not respond to a request for comment.
Haitian authorities had in 2022 requested international security support for local police, but the mission – approved by the UN in 2023 and based on voluntary contributions – has only partially deployed and is severely underresourced.
Haitian leaders have since called for the mission to be converted into a UN peacekeeping force to ensure it is better supplied, but the plan stalled amid opposition from China and Russia in the Security Council.
An estimated 41,000 people were forced to flee their homes in the past two weeks alone, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Overall, there are more than 700,000 people displaced in Haiti due to the conflict, the IOM says. (Aljazeera)
Two RBDF ships to deploy to Haiti before End of year
seizure made by Dominican authorities at the same port in 2006.
Monitoring agencies have reported that the Caribbean is resurfacing as a major drug trafficking route from Colombia to Europe.
A report last year found the use of cocaine is increasing in several western European countries including the UK, Belgium, France and Spain.
Europe accounted for 21% of the world’s cocaine users in 2020, according to a United Nations report.
Evidence suggests use of the drug is bringing dire health consequences, with recent data showing drug-poisoning deaths in England and Wales hit the highest level in 30 years, fuelled by a 30% rise in fatalities involving cocaine.
(BBC)
The Bahamas’ substantial involvement in a multinational security support mission to Haiti may beagin by the end of this month, according to National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, who said two boats will be deployed by December 22 to patrol offshore areas, intercept illegal firearms entering Haiti, and prevent migrants from leaving the country.
His comment came during a luncheon with local pastors at the Fox Hill Community Centre yesterday.
Mr Munroe later told The Tribune that each 60-meter vessel –– the HMBS Bahamas and the HMBS Nassau –– will have a crew of about 60 people.
He said the groups will be “switching in and out” and will not be out simultaneously.
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe made the announcement this week
“At any point, one should be on station,” he said, adding that each vessel could be out for four to six weeks.
Stressing the purpose of the activity, Mr Munroe said: “You have no maritime security, so people do whatever they like. You would be looking to stop
contraband going in, people going out.”
In October, six defence force officers were deployed to Haiti as part of an advance team for the mission.
The government has committed to sending 150 officers as part of the effort.
The cocaine was hidden in 320 bags with an estimated street value of $250 million
The
capital
Biden issues 39 presidential pardons and commutes 1,500 sentences
US President Joe Biden has issued presidential pardons to 39 Americans convicted of nonviolent crimes, and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 other people.
The White House described it as the most acts of presidential clemency issued in a single day. It comes after Biden made the decision to pardon his own son, Hunter Biden.
The US Constitution decrees that a president has the broad “power to grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States, except in cases of impeachment”.
Announcing the move, Biden said those pardoned had “shown successful rehabilitation and have shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer”.
The White House released a pardon list of 39 people that said the individuals had committed either a “non-violent offense” or a “non-violent drug offense”. It did not name the specific crimes they were convicted of committing.
Several of those pardoned were individuals who had been released from prison. Many were veterans or they had become community
leaders or advocates.
The White House described one pardon recipient as a 49-yearold Virginia resident who was convicted of a drug offence at age 21. After serving his sentence, he went on to earn a university degree, have a successful career in the US Army and Air Force and volunteer for charitable organisations that support veterans.
He is known “as exceptionally hard working, dedicated, and trustworthy by those who know
UK’s last Trafalgar submarine makes final voyage
The Royal Navy’s last TrafalgarClass attack submarine has completed its final voyage from Scotland to be decommissioned.
HMS Triumph sailed from HM Naval Base Clyde, at Faslane in Argyll, to HMNB Devonport in Plymouth to retire after more than 20 years in service.
It was the last remaining of seven Trafalgar Class attack submarines deployed in operations around the world including Australia, Afghanistan and Libya.
Clyde tugboats fired water cannons to send off the submarine and its 110-strong crew on Tuesday, before being welcomed by waving well-wishers as it sailed into Plymouth Sound.
HMS Triumph arrived flying a decommissioning pennant as it was escorted by tugboats and vessels from Devonport.
Commander Aaron Williams,
HMS Triumph’s commanding officer, said the Royal Navy would reflect on the legacy of HMS Triumph “with immense pride”.
He added: “The submarine has served not just as a vessel, but as a symbol of commitment, courage, and camaraderie.
“While this chapter of HMS Triumph’s story ends, her spirit will endure in the memories of all who served aboard her, and in the gratitude of the nation she helped protect.”
HMS Triumph was laid down in Barrow shipyard in February 1987 and commissioned less than five years later in October 1991.
The submarine deployed to Australia in 1993, travelling 41,000 miles submerged without support, which at the time was the longest solo deployment by a Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarine.
The vessel later served in
had commuted.
Biden promised “more steps in the weeks ahead”.
The president will leave the White House on 20 January 2025, when his successor Donald Trump is inaugurated.
Biden previously had a record of pardoning fewer people than most presidents in modern US history.
He had issued a few categorical pardons in the past, however. These are pardons given to a sweeping number of people who fall under a category outlined by the president.
for tax fraud and gun crimes.
The move has proven controversial, since the outgoing president previously ruled out doing it. But he claimed the cases against his son were politically motivated.
Biden has also weighed issuing pre-emptive pardons for prominent critics of his successor Trump in a bid to shield them from retribution after the president-elect takes office, but has reportedly been concerned about the precedent it would set.
him”, the White House said in a statement that gave short biographies on all those who had received pardons.
The 1,499 commuted sentences includes individuals who were placed in home confinement during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as those whose sentences Biden deemed to be too long due to outdated laws.
They have “shown that they deserve a second chance”, Biden said of those whose sentences he
In October 2022, Biden issued a full pardon for those who had been convicted of simple possession of marijuana, and later expanded that to include other marijuana-related offenses.
Earlier this year, Biden issued another full pardon to military personnel and veterans who were convicted of an offence based on their sexual orientation.
Biden’s decision earlier this month to pardon his son, Hunter, continued a trend of presidents on both sides of the US political divide - including Trump - granting clemency to people close to them.
The younger Biden was facing sentencing for two criminal cases
In a separate development on Thursday, an ex-FBI informant pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, which had led to investigations into the Biden family.
Alexander Smirnov acknowledged that he concocted “fabrications” about Biden and his son accepting bribes from Ukrainian energy firm Burisma. The claim was seized upon by Republicans in Congress as proof of corruption.
Trump granted 237 acts of clemency during his first term in the White House, according to the Pew Research Center. These included 143 pardons and 94 commuted sentences.
Afghanistan, launching Tomahawk missiles at targets, and was later deployed to Libya – again firing her weaponry at positions from the Mediterranean Sea.
Royal Navy director of submarines, Rear Admiral Andy Perks, said the farewell stirred emotions of both “pride and
sadness”. He added: “The last of the Cold War submarines, these vessels have helped keep our country safe for over 30 years.”
Triumph will be officially decommissioned in a ceremony in 2025 as the baton is fully passed to Astute-Class attack submarines.
Five vessels - HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful, HMS Audacious and HMS Ansonare all currently in service and operating from HM Naval Base Clyde.
A further two boats are under construction at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness. (BBC)
The pardons came after Biden made the decision to pardon his own son, Hunter Biden
Commander of the Submarine Flotilla, Commodore Paul Dunn OBE, salutes HMS Triumph as she leaves HMNB Clyde
Mangione’s legal defence could take shape
Forensic and ballistic evidence that police say ties the accused murderer of healthcare insurance CEO Brian Thompson to the crime scene will make it difficult for his lawyers to mount a defence, former prosecutors and other legal experts say.
Luigi Mangione, 26, was arrested in Pennsylvania on Monday after a days-long, multi-state manhunt ended at a McDonalds in the town of Altoona.
New York authorities say fingerprints and shell casings link him to the crime scene.
His lawyer, Thomas Dickey, earlier told local media he had not “seen any evidence yet” implicating his client.
He said Mr Mangione would plead not guilty to the charges he faces in Pennsylvania, including firearms charges.
In New York, he has been charged with second-degree murder over Mr Thompson’s killing and it is not clear how he would plead. He is currently being held in a state prison in Pennsylvania where he is fighting extradition to face that murder charge. The legal battle over his extradition could potentially take more than a month to resolve, officials said.
But legal experts told the
BBC that his efforts to contest his extradition to New York are unlikely to be successful. They could, however, provide his defence with a glimpse into the state’s evidence against him.
“I don’t even know if this is him,” his lawyer, Mr Dickey, said in a recent interview with US media outlet NewsNation, referring to images of Mr Thompson’s killer.
“We’re going to test those waters and give the government a chance to bring some evidence forward,” he said.
If he is extradited to New York to face the murder charge, Mitchell
Epner, a New York-based lawyer and former prosecutor, told the BBC that there are, broadly, two approaches that Mr Mangione could take if he pleads not guilty.
“Defence number one is ‘it wasn’t me’ and defence number two is ‘it was me, but I shouldn’t be punished’ because of X,” he said.
According to New York police, Mr Mangione was found with a gun similar to the murder weapon, a silencer and a fake ID, as well as three handwritten pages which they believe suggest a potential motive.
Mr Epner said that the publicly known evidence so far means denying responsibility is “out the window”.
Another New York-based lawyer, criminal defence attorney and Professor Dmitriy Shakhnevich, said Mr Mangione’s attorney could also, in theory, argue that an impaired “mental status” makes him unfit to stand trial.
“If a judge makes a determination that he’s misunderstanding, or not understanding, what’s happening in court, then essentially the case won’t go forward,” he said.
“He’ll be institutionalised for a period of time until he’s deemed to be fit, which may be never.”
That defence, Mr Shakhnevich added, is different to a plea of insanity, in which his lawyers could argue that “he’s not responsible for his actions because of some mental defect”.
“That could also deem him not guilty, because you won’t satisfy the elements of the offence,” he said. “But then again, he doesn’t go free. He would be institutionalised for a period, assuming that defence is successful.”
The start of Mr Mangione’s legal battles has prompted anonymous donors to chip in thousands of dollars towards his defence through
online fundraisers.
It comes as some online have shared support for the suspect and anger at the health insurance industry. The New York City Police Department has also warned some healthcare executives are potentially in danger because of a “hit list” posted online after Mr Thompson’s murder.
In a bulletin, the NYPD said several viral posts included the names and salaries of other insurance executives. Mockedup wanted signs featuring some executives have also been posted in Manhattan.
Mr Mangione allegedly had grievances with the wider industry.
Timothy Gallagher, a former FBI agent and the managing director of Nardello and Co, a global investigations firm, said the current climate means the “threat of a copycat is real”.
“There are people out there who have grievances and are observing the amount of press and attention that is being given to the accused,” he said.
Mr Gallagher said that there has been an “outpouring of support from dark corners of the internet” for anti-corporate causes.
“I’m afraid that may fuel followon attacks,” he said. (BBC)
Assisted dying now accounts for one in 20 Canada deaths
Medically-assisted dying – also known as voluntary euthanasia –accounted for 4.7% of deaths in Canada in 2023, new government data shows.
The country’s fifth annual report since euthanasia was legalised in 2016 showed around 15,300 people underwent assisted dying last year after being successful in their applications.
The median age of this group was more than 77. The vast majority –around 96% - had a death deemed “reasonably foreseeable”, due to severe medical conditions such as cancer.
In the small minority of other cases, patients may not have been terminally ill, but sought an assisted death due to a long and complicated illness that had significantly impacted their quality of life.
Canada is among a few countries that have introduced assisted dying laws in the past decade. Others include Australia, New Zealand, Spain and Austria.
In Canada, consenting adults can request medical assistance in dying from a healthcare provider if they have a serious and irremediable
medical condition.
Some provisions are in place, including a requirement of having two independent healthcare providers confirm that the patient is eligible before their request is approved.
More than 320,000 people died in Canada in 2023, and 15,300 of those deaths - about one in 20were medically assisted.
The figures released on Wednesday by Health Canada show that the rate of assisted dying in Canada increased by nearly 16% in 2023. This number is a sharp drop from the average increase of 31% in previous years.
The report cautioned that it is too early to determine what caused the rate to slacken.
For the first time, the report delved into race and ethnic data of those who died by euthanasia.
Around 96% of recipients identified as white people, who account for about 70% of Canada’s population. It is unclear what caused this disparity.
The second most reported ethnic group was east Asians (1.8%), who account for about 5.7% of Canadians.
Assisted dying continued to have the highest usage rate in Quebec, which accounted for nearly 37% of all euthanasia deaths, despite the province holding just 22% of Canada’s population.
Quebec’s government launched a study earlier this year to examine why its euthanasia rate was so high.
While the number of assisted deaths in Canada is growing, the country still falls behind the Netherlands, where euthanasia accounted for around 5% of total
deaths last year.
UK MPs voted late last month to pass a similar bill that gives terminally ill adults in England and Wales the right to have an assisted death, though it will face months of further scrutiny before it could become law.
As British MPs debated the legislation, Canada was cited by some as a cautionary tale due to its perceived lack of safeguards.
Like the UK, Canada initially only legalised assisted dying for
those whose death was “reasonably foreseeable”.
However, Canada expanded access in 2021 to people who may not have a terminal diagnosis, but want to end their life because of a chronic, debilitating condition. It was set to broaden access once again to people with mental illnesses earlier this year.
But that was delayed for the second time after concerns were raised by Canadian provinces, which oversee healthcare delivery, about whether the system could cope with such an expansion.
On Wednesday, Health Canada defended the procedure, saying that the criminal code sets out “strict eligibility” criteria.
But Cardus, a Christian think tank, said the latest figures were “alarming” and showed Canada has one of the fastest growing euthanasia programmes in the world.
A report released in October by Ontario - Canada’s most populous province - has since shed some light on controversial cases where people were granted assisted dying when they were not nearing their natural death.
Luigi Mangione is fighting extradition from Pennsylvania to New York, where he faces murder charges
legalised assisted dying in 2016
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• Ensure that dining patrons are able to find a wine within their budget that fits their tastes and complements their food.
• Work with the culinary staff to find suitable wines to pair with dishes on the menu.
• Work on the floor of the restaurant, helping customers to decide the exact wine that best meets their needs.
• Assist Executive Chef in the research, creation and implementation of market competitive and cost-effective menus that target a predetermined market audience.
• Participate in the development of the annual budget; develop short and long term financial operating plans.
• Attend mandatory meetings and contribute to these meetings in a professionally effective manner; regularly communicate with all team members.
• Participate in Manager on Duty programs, which may require occasional overnight duty.
• Participate in community public relations for the hotel.
• Utilize computer equipment to analyze forecast, cost, and revenue reports and make decisions based on that information to ensure departmental profitability.
• Complete other duties as assigned by Assistant Food and Beverage Director or other superiors.
• Demonstrate positive leadership characteristics and act as a role model for staff members.
• Regularly research and remain current with Sommelier market trends.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Must be computer literate; must be proficient in Micros and Microsoft Suite
• 2+ years’ experience as Head Sommelier in a 4/5-star establishment.
• 5/8in Food and Beverage Management with international.
• Must have good written and oral communication skills
*ASSISTANT FRONT OFFICE MANAGER
As the Assistant Front Office Manager, he/she will bridge between the front and the back office. While coordinating the operation, you will also ensure that all guests experience a fantastic stay. Salary Range: $30k-$ 40k
• Showing Initiative, Problem Solving, Staff Training, Team Leading.
• Manages and motivates the Front Office team in order to provide a high standard of service for customers.
• Welcomes guests and fosters customer loyalty through his/her friendly manner.
• Develops high-quality relationships with guests throughout their stay.
• Handles any guest complaints or contentious issues that cannot be settled directly by team members and provides a fast solution.
• Oversee and supervise guest arrivals and departures with the front office executive and duty managers.
• Provide a high level of customer service and maintain a high profile in the day-to-day front office operations.
• Ensure that personalized service is offered to each and every guest.
• Ensures that the pricing policy and internal audit procedures are duly applied.
• Supervises the management of debtors, group and individual guest invoicing and cash operations.
• Monitor all executive floor executives to ensure maximum guest satisfaction through personal recognition and prompt cordial attention from arrival through departure.
• Review the arrival list for all arrivals and VIPs to check room allocations, amenities and special requests.
• Prepare monthly and daily revenue reports and circulate them to all HOD’s.
• Prepare Room revenue and occupancy forecast and take action on rate strategies.
• Is involved in the recruitment of new team members for the front office.
• Integrates and trains employees, providing support for skills development.
• Ensures that all front desk employees are well presented (uniforms, personal hygiene etc), and also punctual.
• Ensures that the workplace remains clean and tidy
• Ensure team members have current knowledge of hotel products, services, facilities, events, pricing and policies and knowledge of the local area and events.
THE SOURCE LTD
203W Venture House
LUXURY VILLA BUTLER/ LIVE IN BUTLER
We are looking for an honest, hardworking, self-motivated individual with keen organizational and communication skills to join our team. The butler must be knowledgeable about services offered and serve as an attentive liaison between guest and staff. Please note this position requires the applicant to be on call 24/7.
BUTLER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Inspect villa before and after guest arrival
• Greet guest upon arrival, unpacking and packing guest suitcases/bags
• Anticipate and meet guest needs
• See Guest off upon departure
• Unpacking and packing guest clothing
• Ironing clothing and pressing linen
• Serve meal & prepare cocktail and other beverages
• Run errands (must have valid driver’s license)
• Must assist with cleaning rooms and assist with the upkeep of the villa
• Assist with replenishing inventory, including cleaning supplies, dishware, etc.
BUTLER REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS
• Certification in Safety Management or Food Safety
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience working as a butler at a luxury villa/resort
• Must have a sunny disposition and must maintain a positive attitude
• Ability to adapt to fast paced-paced environment
PLEASE NOTE THAT RENUMERATION FOR THIS POSITION STARTS AT $1500.00 BASED
VILLA CONCIERGE
Will be the first point of contact between guests and an organization. They are tasked with answering guest inquiries, directing phone calls, coordinating travel plans, and more. They must uphold company culture at all times while making guests feel welcomed and valued. Salary Range: $20k-$ 25k
• The applicant MUST be flexible and able to work on the weekends
• Creating guest itineraries (restaurant reservations, activity bookings, responding to email enquiries and answering questions)
• Being stationed in the office to answer phone calls
• Reconfirming all guest itineraries for the next day
• Guest interaction & assist with welcoming (welcome drink and cold towels for arrivals at the sports club)
• Greeting guests around the property
• Preparing all arrival documents (registration cards, itineraries, room keys, special information)
• Preparing all departure folios (printing folios, working with guest service managers to ensure all bills have been posted)
• Office file organization (ensuring all folios and receipts are filed correct every day)
• Updating guests’ information on the opera system - guest likes and dislikes, contact information, physical address
2 HOUSEMAN, HOUSEKEEPER
RETAIL SALES EXECUTIVE
Primary objective of the job:
The Sales Professional will be responsible for the sale of all products and services of Digicel TCI (Mobile and Play) from greeting to final sale and works with the sales team to achieve customer satisfaction and revenue generation.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Greet customers and ascertain what each customer wants or needs
• Explains the benefits, value and usefulness of products to customers
• Recommend device based on a customer’s needs and desires
• Process all device sales, perform device checks and explain device warranty in accordance with Digicel policy
• Responsible for all SIM sales and activations (prepaid and postpaid)
• Post all bill payments.
• Sell and upgrade Cable services and Broad band services in accordance with company goals and customer needs.
• Troubleshoot customers’ service problems; schedule field service calls when necessary.
• Handle all account adjustments and corrections.
• Troubleshoot and resolve customer handset issues and requests
• Report all customer complaints in timely manner.
• Adhere to cash handling procedures
• Adhere to uniform strict policies
• Configure APN, set up email addresses and applicable apps, and take any other action necessary steps to ensure that the customer is able to use voice, sms and data when he/she leaves the store.
• You may be assigned to work at any Digicel retail (Providenciales, North Caicos, South Caicos or Grand Turk) store in expense of the company.
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
• Minimum of a High School Diploma with passes in English and Math at the CXC or GCE level.
• Ability to speak Spanish and or Creole is an advantage.
• Customer Service training/experience Apply using the link below:
Large turnout for “Girls Aim Higher” Teen Girls Awareness Summit
The second annual Teen Girls Community Awareness Summit, held last month, was a remarkable success, bringing together 120 enthusiastic girls from various local schools and communities for a day filled with inspiration, learning, and connection at the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre.
This year’s summit continued its mission of empowering young ladies to engage with their communities and advocate for positive change.
The day began with powerful opening remarks from the visionary and founder of Amani Youth Foundation and organiser of the event Cutella Talbot, who is also a local advocate, radio personality and motivational speaker, who urged the attendees to harness their potential and become catalysts for change within their communities.
“You are the voices of your generation, and your contributions
can make a significant difference,” Talbot emphasised, igniting a spark of enthusiasm among the assembled youth.
The summit, themed “Girls Aim Higher” aimed to equip teenage girls with tools and resources to realise their potential, navigate challenges, and pursue their dreams. Essential topics such as public speaking, leadership, entrepreneurship and social activism were discussed.
One of the key highlights of the summit was the provision of 13 brand-new laptops to deserving girls, courtesy of the Amani Youth Foundation. In addition, all participants received branded T-shirts, thoughtfully curated gift bags, and enjoyed complimentary meals. The event also featured entertainment by the talented Carl Choice Lewis, adding an uplifting touch to an already empowering day.
The summit’s success was
amplified by collaborations with esteemed partners, including Ms Valerie Williams, founder of Lovesmart Inc. from Brunswick, Georgia, Ms Courtney Lucas, founder of Nurturing Excellence and Ms Sabrina Green as the Keynote speaker and Dr Faye Forbes.
Their expertise and dedication added depth to the workshops and discussions, ensuring the attendees left with actionable insights and renewed confidence. Also in attendance were Ms One Nation TCI and Miss Global International 1st Runner up, Ms Selena Grant; Miss Teen One Nation TCI Ms Samantha Audain and Ms Teen Turks and Caicos Ms Milaysia Louis.
Talbot’s leadership and vision continue to inspire, and the growing success of this summit reflects her commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders.
With over 120 girls leaving the event inspired, equipped, and connected, the Amani Youth Foundation reaffirmed its vital role in shaping a brighter future for the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands
One of the attendees, 13-yearold Kenda Noezyl, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to participate. “The summit really helped a lot of girls out there. I feel more confident to speak out and make a change in my community,” she remarked.
As the summit concluded, attendees left with renewed motivation, a sense of community, and a commitment to drive meaningful change. The success of this summit not only showcased the power of youth when united for a common cause but also highlighted the vital need for continued support and engagement in empowering young women to lead confidently. Talbot also expressed that
the success of this teen girls summit could not have been possible without the support from our valuable sponsors such as HLB, Parkway Pest Solutions, Lovesmart, Nurturing Excellence, Island Bargains, Inspire Radio Show, 88.5FM The Beat, Grace Bay Resorts, Ocean Club Resorts, Sixt Car Rental, TCI Auto Spot, Beaches Turks and Caicos, GoldSmith, Turks and Caicos Tequila, The Edward C Gartland Youth Center, Grand Turk Events, Hot Wheels Tours TCI, Turks and Caicos Coca Cola, E & V Equipment, KB Home Center, Provo Medical Health Center, Projetech, Bugaloo”s, Lux Car Rental, Coco Bistro, First Caribbean Bank, Gilley’s Generation Foundation, TWA, Marcelin. Wolf, Jason Francis, Hon E. Jay Saunders and Hon Shaun Astwood and Myrna Lisa’s Myriad Pageant and Entertainment.
HAIRDRESSER
VACANCIES
CLEANER
LABOURER
LABOURER
BABYSITTER
DOMESTIC WORKER
•
DOMESTIC WORKER
8 SECURITY OFFICERS
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Attend technical meetings with internal and external stakeholders
• Conduct pre-installation site surveys to ensure all is in place for actual installations
• Installation of hardware and software to support DIA, Fixed Voice and Cloud technologies
• The provisioning of services for related DIA, Fixed Voice and Cloud technologies
• Prepare Scope of Work (SOW) documents for all installations
• Ensure Acceptance Test Plan (ATP) are executed at the end of each installation and signed by customer
• Ensure that Customer Acceptance Form (CAF) and Customer Premise Equipment Form (CPEF) are signed by customer at the end of each installation.
• Maintain a database of customer installations which includes device inventory, SOW, network diagrams, circuit diagrams, software licenses and ATP.
• Ensures that services are delivered to customers in a timely and professional manner.
• Ensure that all DIA, Fixed Voice and Cloud elements are implemented with appropriate level of security, and interfaces to allow for full surveillance and remote monitoring.
• Liaise with ICT/Business Services Management team to ensure timely, accurate and professional delivery of services.
• Provide timely and accurate reports as per business requirement.
• Provide IT/IP Support to other departments and external parties as required
• Manage Windows AD infrastructure, DNS, DHCP and Domain Controllers.
• Maintenance of Voice and Data Equipment (i.e. PBX, Switches) at the office locations.
• Maintenance of Printers and other peripherals
• Installation, configuration and maintenance of users’ PC hardware and software
• Backup of all nodes and patching of all systems.
• Maintenance of Windows Infrastructure.
- Disk Space Monitoring and Administration, Server configuration and set-up
- Technical administrative tasks and Hardware Installation
- Weekly/Monthly KPI’s and Preparation of server performance reports
• LAN maintenance and monitoring.
- IT Technician should test and replace
network cables and patch user ports in the network backbone to provide connectivity to the network for users.
- Maintenance and Installation of Network Nodes including WLAN
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
• B.Sc.in Computer Science or equivalent with at least three (5) years experience in IP & Data technology.
• Cisco CCNA/CCDA Required
• Cisco CCNP Voice or Check Point CCSA will be an asset
FUNCTIONAL SKILLS:
Must have practical experience with:
• Installation and configuration of Cisco Routers/Switches/IP PBX, Mitel, Avaya, Nortel IP PBX/Legacy PBX, Check Point and/or Cisco Firewall, Wireless Routers/ Access Points, Voice Gateways and Analog Terminal Adaptor
• Functional operations, maintenance of Video and VoIP technologies.
• Windows Server Installation and Administration
• SQL Server setup and Database Administration
• Windows Hyper V And VMWare Environment Installation and Administration
• LAN and WAN Installation, configuration and Maintenance
• Network Security.
• Structure and operation of Internet gateway links.
• Network planning, engineering and development.
• Report writing
ADDITIONALLY, SHOULD BE FAMILIAR WITH:
• Project management of medium to large projects, preferably rolled out to users across multiple sites
• Growing trends with technology especially in the areas of DIA, Fixed Voice and Cloud technology.
• Analytical and performance reporting/ generating tools.
• Electronic requisitioning and work-flow based approval systems
• SLA development and performance management tools.
• Knowledge of OS such as Linux/Unix and Windows is an asset.
Cooper Jack Bay Rd., Provo, Is seeking to employ a
DIGICEL+ SALES TEAM LEAD
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE JOB:
To assist the Sales Manager in overseeing and directing the operation of the Feet on the Street (FOTS) sales team within the parameters of established Digicel policies and procedures. Responsible for understanding and promoting the sale of all Digicel residential products and services across mobile and D+ sales channels inclusive of but not limited to, the sale of mobile devices, sims, recharge, home broadband and Cable TV.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Supervises the Feet on the Street (FOTS) team (responsible for staff scheduling, disseminating sales targets, holding regular team meetings)
• Responsible for training employees on Digicel products and services
• Responsible for the DPR (performance management) evaluation process
• Makes sure that the FOTS team meats the required health and safety standards
• Travels to different neighborhoods by foot or automobile going doorto-door with the goal of selling Digicel products and services
• Responsible to for the daily setting up and breaking down of Digicel sales tents ensuring that the area is left clean
• Ensures company brand materials and physical working spaces meet and exceed company presentation standards
• Sets up and demonstrates products and shows the customer how to maximize product features
• Handles customer complaints, issues and questions.
• Manages inventory (including keeping detailed records of stock used, mobile device and sim card sales) and advising management when ordering/restocking is necessary
• Takes payments in the form of cash or credit card
• Responsible for pinning (i.e. the identification of the customers’ premises and the relevant associated structure in PlayMaps)
• Create Digicel+ accounts
• Reconciles daily sales
• Verify and approve sales submissions by the agents for payroll
• Responsible for driving, motivating and encouraging FOTS team to achieve sales targets
• Meets financial KPIs
• Records sales figures and conducts data analysis and forward planning
• Identifies market trends that appeal to customers
• Monitors local competitors
• Managing the month-end and year-end close processes
• Prepare ad hoc reports required for Digicel TCI and Digicel Group as needed
• You may be assigned to work at any Digicel retail store from time to time
• Extensive inter-island and intra-island travel is required. Some international travel may be required from time to time
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
• Minimum Associates Degree in Business or related field
• Excellent written, oral, and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite especially Excel
• Excellent customer service skills
• Must be able to drive and have a valid driver’s license.
• Spanish/Creole are an advantage.
•
•
•
& SOCIAL TRAINING(B.E.S.T.) INSTITUTE, INC.
DOMESTIC WORKERS
MEET THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:
1. Possess a valid food handler’s permit
2. A born again Christian preferably of the Baptist Faith
3. The ability to read and write English
4. Must be able to assist in the preparation of healthy meals on a daily basis for over 150 students.
5. Be able to manage the stock and prepare orders. Handle cash effectively to ensure all checks and balances
6. Salary starts at $8.00 per hour This position is available to Turks & Caicos Islanders, new work permit or work permit holders.
BE DROPPED
MIXOLOGIST TRAINER
• Responsible for training other (local) bartenders and staff members on how to mix drinks properly.
• Enabling them to concoct a diverse and appealing range of cocktails and other drinks tailored to customer preferences.
• Also adept at preparing a wide
variety of beverage, including non-alcoholic cocktails, wines, spirits and mixers, beers, ciders and soft drinks.
• And also help the trainee to receive a certification in the field of mixology.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience.
Salary: $1458.33 weekly
SENIOR LIGATION ATTORNEY
Karam & Missick, Attorneys-at-Law
Suite A 203/204, Regent Village East Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking a Senior Ligation Attorney
JOB SUMMARY:
The selected candidate will be responsible for handling court cases, representing clients in civil and criminal court proceedings and preparing legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, and briefs, representing clients in all stages of litigation, including trial and appeals and all other delegated task.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• A qualified attorney (as a qualified solicitor or barrister or both) from a Commonwealth jurisdiction
• A member of the Turks & Caicos Bar Association or eligible for immediate admission, as well as being able to demonstrate significant experience in litigation: criminal and commercial/civil.
• 10 years post-qualification experience in private practice with experience of submissions before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.
PENALTY FEE AMNESTY AND RATE REDUCTION
The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board is pleased to announce the enactment of the Turks And Caicos Islands National Insurance (Additional Charges) (Amnesty) Ordinance 2024. This Ordinance grants a six-month amnesty period for all contributors bringing their accounts current, or whose contributions are paid in full, prior to or during the period December 1, 2024, thru May 31, 2025. All related surcharges will be waived.
The Board shall, during the amnesty period, waive a person’s liability to pay any additional charges due in respect of late payment of contributions if:-
(a) the employer or self-employed person submits satisfactory proof to the Board that all contributions owed under the National Insurance Ordinance have been paid as at the date of commencement of this Ordinance; or
(b) the employer or self-employed person pays all outstanding contributions owed under the National Insurance Ordinance during the designated amnesty period.
EXCLUSION:
Additional charges which are payable or become payable in consequence of proceedings before any court shall not be waived.
You are further advised that effective June 1, 2025, there will also be a reduction in the surcharge rate for the late payment of contributions. The additional charge will continue to accrue at an initial 10% of contributions for the first month, plus a subsequent 1 ½% for each month or part thereof of delay. This is a further 1.5% reduction, now 8.5% lower than the 10% charged at the inception of the Fund.
The National Insurance Board encourages, as many of our contributors who can do so, to utilize this opportunity.
We also take this opportunity to continue to encourage our contributors to pay their contributions on time, to avoid all penalty charges.
2 LABOURER CLEANER CASHIER
LABOURER
Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property ANOUSBING
Sorting,
& folding.
LABOURER $8.00 p/h
Performing manual task
COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION
Blue Mountain, Provo TCI Tel: 649-231-0337
CONSTRUCTION LABOURER $10.00 p/h
Perform all basic cleaning around the facility and to assign areas. MERCIUS JOAZILE The Bight, Provo TCI
GARDENER $8.00 p/h
Pruning trees and shrubs; Planting seeds and growing plants or flowers.
Reports to : Assistant Sales Manager
Location : Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
JOB SUMMARY
Selling Digicel products and services to new customers and up-selling and cross-selling to existing customers.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Make visits to assigned locations to promote and sell Digicel products and services
• Contribute to and take part in sales promotions and events geared at increasing subscriber base
• Accurately record prospect info on signup sheet
• Achieve sales objectives while providing the highest level of customer satisfaction.
• Provide relevant responses to customers concerns, products and service enquires based on actual facts related to the company’s products or services. Greet customers and ascertain what each customer wants or needs
• Explains the benefits, value and usefulness of products to customers
• Recommend device based on a customer’s needs and desires
• Process all device sales, perform device checks and explain device warranty in accordance with Digicel policy
• Responsible for all SIM sales and activations (prepaid)
• Sell and upgrade Cable services and Broad band services in accordance with company goals and customer needs.
• Troubleshoot customers’ service problems; schedule field service calls when necessary.
• Handle all account adjustments and corrections.
• Troubleshoot and resolve customer handset issues and requests
• Report all customer complaints in timely manner.
• Adhere to cash handling procedures
• Adhere to uniform strict policies
• Configure APN, set up email addresses and applicable apps, and take any other action necessary steps to ensure that the customer is able to use voice, sms and data when he/she leaves the store.
• You will be assigned to work at various locations (in store locations and pop up tents) on various islands (within the Turks and Caicos Islands) at the expense of the company.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR JOB:
• High School Diploma
• Five CXC, GCSE (or equivalent) would be an asset
• Basic computer skills
• Knowledge of the Internet
• Previous sales experience, with demonstrated success is an asset.
• Previous experience in a customer service environment is an asset.
LABOURER
RECEIVING CLERK
• We are looking for an experienced administrator to join our law firm as a receptionist and administrative assistant.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, good time management, and keen attention to detail.
• Must be friendly, efficient, punctual, and trustworthy.
• A minimum of 2 years’ office experience is required for the position, and experience in the legal field is preferred.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office.
SEND YOUR CV TO RECEPTION@SAVORY-CO.COM
TECHNICAL YACHT AND SALES MANAGER
LOCATION: SOUTH BANK MARINA
POSITION TYPE: FULL-TIME
Are you passionate about the yachting industry and ready to take on a dynamic role at the heart of technical yacht management and sales? South Bank Marina is seeking a Technical Yacht and Sales Manager to lead and coordinate vessel sales, warranty repairs, and technical yacht activities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Manage all aspects of vessel sales, from logistics and registrations to customer education.
• Oversee warranty registrations, repairs, and claims for vessels sold.
• Coordinate logistics, customs clearances, and local shipping for vessels and parts.
• Provide technical expertise and advice to customers on yachting and vessel care.
• Develop business strategies to attract new clients and expand market presence.
• Manage marketing initiatives for boat sales in collaboration with the CEO and Operations Manager.
• Supervise staH under your command, including training and recruitment.
• Monitor and manage inventory, oHice requisites, and aged debtors.
• Attend boat shows and represent South Bank Marina professionally.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
• Proven experience in yacht sales, technical yacht management, or a related field.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities.
• Knowledge of logistics, warranty claims, and vessel registration processes.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Experience with marketing and business strategy development is an asset. What We OBer:
• Competitive salary and benefits package up to 50k annually.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• A supportive team environment in a leading marina.
HOW TO APPLY:
If you have the skills, experience, and passion to excel in this role, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and cover letter to contact@southbank.tc with the subject line “Technical Yacht and Sales Manager Application”.
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.
experience level.
SUPPORT STAFF
To assist with kitchen prep, charcuterie board setup, and daily operations at our luxury charcuterie and champagne experience in Turks and Caicos.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Help prepare and present charcuterie boards.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Assist with events and daily operations. WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
• Passion for food and hospitality.
• Organized, reliable, and teamoriented.
• Experience in food service or events is a plus. PERKS: Competitive pay and a creative work environment.
GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from a recognized institution
• Minimum of 5 years work experience in a fast-paced Urgent Care practice setting, including 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Current registration from country of origin and with the HPA in TCI
• Current ACLS certification.
• Bilingual proficiency is a strong asset.
REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES
• Supervise and support nursing staff in delivering high-quality patient care.
• Coordinate and manage patient care plans in collaboration with healthcare teams.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory guidelines and organizational policies.
• Conduct performance evaluations, training, provide mentorship, and assist with staff development.
• Monitor staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all shifts.
• Demonstrate strong administration skills.
• Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and staff meetings.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and EHR software.
• Practical skills to include but not limited to IV therapy, venipuncture, injections, vitals, dressings, ECG, sterilization protocol and how to operate the machine.
• Collaborate with physicians and healthcare teams to develop and modify patient care plans.
• Maintain accurate patient records, including treatments, progress, and responses.
• Respond to emergencies and perform life-saving procedures when necessary.
• Able to work with little or no supervision to ensure proper flow of patients
Salary based on experience and qualifications. Belongers only need to apply.
SENIOR LIGATION ATTORNEY
Karam & Missick, Attorneys-at-Law Suite A 203/204, Regent Village East Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking a Senior Ligation Attorney
JOB SUMMARY:
The selected candidate will be responsible for handling court cases, representing clients in civil and criminal court proceedings and preparing legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, and briefs, representing clients in all stages of litigation, including trial and appeals and all other delegated task.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• A qualified attorney (as a qualified solicitor or barrister or both) from a Commonwealth jurisdiction
• A member of the Turks & Caicos Bar Association or eligible for immediate admission, as well as being able to demonstrate significant experience in litigation: criminal and commercial/civil.
• 10 years post-qualification experience in private practice with experience of submissions before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.
Salary: $100k – 150k per annum, depending on experience.
CLEANER
CASHIER
LABOURER
EDUCATION AND TRAINING:
• Post secondary degree in Culinary Arts or 8 + years industry equivalent experience.
• Computer literate, functional on Excel, MS-Word and QuickBooks and Micros.
• Fluent in English both written and oral with a fundamental understanding of French and Spanish
• First Aid Training
LABOURER
SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
• Be able to assist the Executive Chef in all capacities to include:
• Work in a high-pressure environment with calm, effective leadership
• Planning and execution of special events.
• Precise knife skills
• Assist Chef in the preparation and execution of all desserts.
• Produce all breakfast, lunch and dinner items with expert precision.
• Cook the entire menu on the line during service, including meats to temperature specifications.
• Execute a proper sanitation procedure to ensure that high quality food is served that accurately represents the Café.
• Prepare and execute specials based on the Café’s Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Be versed in a large variety of cooking techniques to include braising, sautéing, frying, steaming, poaching, and sauce making.
• Receive food orders from various vendors, checking for quality and pricing.
• Be able to stand on one’s feet for 10 hours and be comfortable lifting 50 pounds without physical restrictions.
• Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule.
LEADERSHIP AND MANAGERIAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Assist Chef in the training of kitchen staff to encourage growth in a positive environment.
• Be sensitive to the needs of staff members and maintain a professional demeanor.
• Assist Chef in the ordering of food through a variety of vendors.
• Assist Chef with weekly and monthly inventory of items and work with the Chef to calculate food costs.
• Maintain a positive environment in the kitchen to encourage growth and diversity within the workplace.
The Sous Chef should be a natural leader who is seeking to assist others in improving their cooking ability, and also to develop strong people skills. An ambitious person who is a comfortable communicator with a confident skill set. The Sous Chef needs to be a self starter that can lead the kitchen in the Chefs absence. The right candidate should be able to open the kitchen in the morning or be the last to leave the kitchen at night. Prioritizing and executing prep items based on the restaurant’s needs. He or She will ensure that foods are properly labeled with the date and prep item name and consistently rotated and stored for future use. Oversee and participate in daily cleaning duties as scheduled by the Chef to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in.
Pay: $3000.00 per month or commiserate with experience
CLEANER
Keeps equipment available for use by inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.
$8.50 Hourly
LABOURER
LABOURER
Science & Technology
Exercising for 30 minutes improves memory, study suggests
For cycle-to-work commuters and those who start the day with a brisk walk, the benefits of banking some early exercise is well understood.
Now scientists believe activity is not just a good idea for improving the day ahead – physical activity could be associated with small increase in memory scores the next, too.
A study from University College London has shown that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and sleeping for at least six hours at night, could contribute to improved cognitive performance the following day.
“The takeaway is just [that] physical activity is good for your brain and good sleep helps that,” said Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, first author of the study.
The researchers noted physical activity had previously been associated with both shortterm improvements in cognitive function and a reduced risk of dementia.
However, Bloomberg noted many studies looking at short-term impacts had been laboratory based, and primarily tracked responses on a timescale of minutes to hours.
Researchers noted physical activity can result in short-term cognitive improvements and a reduced risk of dementia
These studies suggested benefits could be down to an increased blood flow to the brain and stimulation of chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Now researchers say they have looked at the short-term impact of physical activity carried out in real life, not only finding benefits to the brain but revealing these appear to last longer than expected.
Writing in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Bloomberg and colleagues report how 76 adults aged 50-83 years old, and who did not have cognitive impairment or dementia, were asked to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their sleep and physical activity as they carried out their normal life.
Each day, participants were also given simple online cognitive tests to probe their attention, memory and processing speed, among other faculties.
The team said their results reveal that each 30-minute increase in moderate to vigorous physical activity on the previous day corresponded to a 2-5% increase in episodic and working memory scores the next, although only the latter remained once participants’ sleep data was considered.
While Bloomberg noted it is difficult to say whether this corresponds to a tangible – clinical – difference for participants, she said the next step is to carry out similar work in people with cognitive impairments.
“The idea is for people who have mild cognitive impairment, a very minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference,” she said.
The team also found each 30-minute increase in sedentary behaviour was associated with a small drop in working memory scores the next day – although Bloomberg said exactly how
sedentary time is spent could be important – while those who slept at least six hours a night had higher scores for episodic memory, attention and physical response speed the next day, after taking into account levels of physical activity, than those who had less sleep.
However, the study has limitations, including that the participants had high levels of education, excellent health and high levels of everyday physical activity.
Bloomberg added it is not clear exactly what is driving the impact of exercise on memory the following day, with benefits from neurotransmitters only thought to last for a few hours. She also noted different mechanisms may be behind long-term benefits of exercise to the brain.
The study ties into a focus on protecting our brains as we age. “We all experience cognitive decline as we get older, it’s a normal part of ageing,” Bloomberg said. “So that’s the age group where we start to think: what are these little things we can do on a day-to-day basis to improve our cognitive function and our independence and social participation?” (The Guardian)
Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide has a genital herpes infection – WHO
Around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections – more than 1 in 5 of this agegroup globally – according to new estimates released today. At least 1 person each second – 42 million people annually – is estimated to acquire a new genital herpes infection.
Most of the time, these infections cause no or few symptoms. However, for some people they lead to painful genital sores and blisters that can recur throughout life, causing significant discomfort and often requiring multiple healthcare visits. According to the estimates, more than 200 million people aged 15 to 49 suffered at least one such symptomatic episode in 2020.
The authors of the study, published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections, say that new treatments and vaccines are needed to reduce adverse health effects of the herpes virus and control its spread.
“While most people with a genital herpes infection experience few symptoms, with so many infections genital herpes still causes pain and distress for millions globally and strains already overburdened health systems,” said Dr Meg Doherty, Director of Global HIV,
Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes at WHO. “Better prevention and treatment options are urgently needed to reduce herpes transmission and will also contribute to reducing the transmission of HIV.”
Currently, there is no cure for herpes, although treatments can relieve symptoms. In addition to sores, genital herpes can also on occasion lead to serious complications, including neonatal herpes – a rare condition most likely to occur when a mother acquires the infection for the first time in late pregnancy and then transmits the virus to her baby during childbirth.
There are two types of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as HSV-1 and HSV-2, both of which can lead to genital herpes. According to the estimates, 520 million people in 2020 had genital HSV-2, which is transmitted during sexual activity. From a public health perspective, genital HSV-2 is more serious since it is substantially more likely to cause recurrent outbreaks, accounts for around 90% of symptomatic episodes, and is linked to a threefold increased risk of getting HIV.
Unlike HSV-2, HSV-1 primarily spreads during childhood through
Currently, there is no cure for herpes, although treatments can relieve symptoms
saliva or skin to skin contact around the mouth to cause oral herpes, with cold sores or mouth ulcers the most common symptoms. In those without previous infection, however, HSV-1 can be acquired through sexual contact to cause genital infection in adolescence or adulthood. Some 376 million people are estimated to have had genital HSV-1 infections in 2020. Of these, 50 million are estimated also to have HSV-2 as it is possible to have both types at the same time.
While the 2020 estimates show virtually no difference in
the prevalence of genital HSV2 compared to 2016, estimated genital HSV-1 infections are higher. Over recent years, several countries have observed changing patterns of transmission in HSV1, with adult genital infections increasing as childhood oral infections decline. Reduced oral spread during childhood may be linked to factors like less crowded living conditions and improved hygiene, which then increases susceptibility to the virus at older ages. The authors note that these increases may also partially reflect
changes in methods and additional data sources.
“Stigma around genital herpes means it has been discussed too little, despite affecting millions of people globally. Not enough has been done to address this common infection,” said Dr Sami Gottlieb, an author of the report and Medical Officer within WHO’s Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research including the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/ World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP). “Expanded research and investment in developing new herpes vaccines and therapies, and their equitable use, could play a critical role in improving quality of life for people around the world.”
While they are not fully effective at stopping its spread, correct and consistent use of condoms reduces risks of herpes transmission. People with active symptoms should avoid sexual contact with other people, since herpes is most contagious when sores are present. WHO recommends that people with symptoms of genital herpes should be offered HIV testing and if needed, pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention.
Science & Technology
Some added sugar sources are worse than others for disease risk, study suggests
What kind of sugary treat you are having might change its impact on your health, according to a new study.
Sugary drinks were associated with a greater risk of developing cardiovascular health disease than sweets like baked goods, said lead study author Suzanne Janzi, a doctoral student in nutritional epidemiology at Lund University in Sweden, via email.
The study, published Monday in the journal Frontiers in Public Health, surveyed nearly 70,000 Swedish men and women about their diet and lifestyle between 1997 and 2009. Their incidences of cardiovascular disease ––including strokes, heart attacks and heart failures–– were collected from the national health registers through 2019, according to the study.
Researchers looked at sugar consumption in three categories: sugary beverages, sweets like pastries, and toppings like honey or sugar added to tea or coffee, according to the study.
Consuming sweet drinks (all sodas and fruit drinks that were not pure fruit juices) was associated with a higher risk of heart disease than those individuals who had more baked treats, but surprisingly those participants who consumed the least amount of sugar did not end up with the lowest risk of heart disease, Janzi said.
IS NO SUGAR REALLY WORSE?
It is important to note that the study was observational, meaning
a greater risk of heart disease than baked goods, according to a new study
that while researchers found associations, they can’t say for sure that the ways people ate sugar caused the different rates of heart disease, Janzi said.
They did adjust for other factors that might also influence the association, including age, sex, alcohol, smoking, exercise level and body mass index, or BMI, she added. But there may be others that they have not accounted for in their analysis.
The results are also limited by the population studied, which is primarily of European descent, said Dr Robert Eckel, professor emeritus of medicine at the University of Colorado Anschutz
medical campus and former president of the American Heart Association.
Outside factors might be behind the association between low added sugar intake and increased cardiovascular risk, since there are no biological mechanisms to explain it, Janzi said.
“One theory is that people with very low sugar intake might be replacing sugar with other unhealthy foods or nutrients,” she added.
It could also be that those who limit their sugar consumption to extremely low levels are doing so for an existing health condition, or that they have very restrictive
diets overall that do not provide all the important nutrients they need, Janzi said.
She also points to a Swedish social tradition called “fika,” where people gather for coffee and pastries.
“This practice is so ingrained in Swedish society that many workplaces have scheduled ‘fika breaks’ daily,” Janzi said. “It’s possible that the consumption of treats during these social interactions is strongly linked to social relationships, which have previously been linked to cardiovascular health.”
The connection between low sugar and higher cardiovascular risk does need to be studied further, however, she said.
WHY IT’S WORSE TO DRINK YOUR SUGAR
There are some biological theories behind why sugary drinks are more associated with heart disease than pastries, Janzi said.
“Liquid sugars are absorbed more rapidly in the digestive system since they do not require the same breakdown processes as solid foods,” she said. “Solid sugars are often part of foods that contain other nutrients like fiber, proteins, and fats.”
Those nutrients slow digestion, meaning there is a more gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream, Janzi said.
While fats, fiber and proteins in solid food leave you feeling fuller longer, liquid sugars often don’t fill you up –– which can lead to appetite dysregulation and the
consumption of too many calories, she added.
“Different sources of added sugars also vary in their consumption patterns, which could further explain why they associate differently with cardiovascular disease risk,” Janzi added.
LESS SUGAR VIA LESS SODA
The study suggests that you don’t need to cut out all sugar to prevent cardiovascular disease, Janzi said.
“We all enjoy a dessert,” Eckel added. “Should we not have birthday cake and ice cream when your kids are having a birthday party?”
But most Americans are probably consuming too much added sugar, and sweetened drinks are a good place to make reductions, he said.
The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar a day for women and 9 for men.
A sustainable reduction might mean taking steps to reduce your sugar instead of going cold turkey.
“Cut back by one serving per day until you’re down to one drink per day,” registered dietitian and CNN contributor Lisa Drayer said in a previous story. “Then aim for one every other day until you can phase out soft drinks entirely.
“Alternate with seltzer/sparkling water can help you cut back,” she added. “Eventually you can replace soft drinks with seltzer or sparkling water if you are craving carbonation.” (BBC)
Record outbreak of dengue fever in Central and South America
The number of cases of dengue fever in Central and South America has nearly tripled to a record high this year, the Pan American Health Organisation (Paho) said on Tuesday.
More than 12.6m cases and 7,700 deaths were recorded in what Paho says is the biggest outbreak in the region since records began in 1980.
Brazil, Argentina, Colombia in South America and Mexico in North America were hit especially hard by the virus, accounting for the majority of cases and deaths.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause serious illness or death in some cases.
Symptoms include a fever, severe headache, pain behind the
eyes, muscle and joint pain, and a blotchy rash.
Those with a more severe type of dengue might experience severe stomach pain, fatigue, vomiting, and blood in vomit or stool.
Vaccines have been introduced in some countries in the region, while others, such as Honduras, plan to start distribution in 2025.
In a statement, Paho urged for stronger mitigation efforts and collaboration across the Americas.
Its director, Dr Jarbas Barbosa, said the high number of cases was linked to a hotter, wetter climate and factors such as accumulated water around the home and poor waste management, which create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
He also said the virus was posing a “higher-than-normal” risk to children.
In Guatemala, 70% of denguerelated deaths were children, while in Mexico, Costa Rica and Paraguay, under-15s made up more than a third of severe cases, Paho data showed.
Children and people with preexisting health conditions are more likely to catch the disease and develop more serious symptoms.
Around half the world’s population live in areas with a risk of contracting the disease, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
It is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, most commonly the Aedes aegypti. (BBC)
Sugary drinks are associated with
Local health authorities fumigate mosquito breeding sites to stem outbreaks of dengue fever
Science & Technology
Microplastics
We are very much living in the Plastic Age.
Whether it’s our food supply and how it’s packaged, our dwellings, furnishings and clothing or even our environment, there is almost no avoiding plastic in some way, shape or form.
While plastic makes our lives easier in countless ways — can you imagine life without shoes, computers or cars? — there’s also no denying that plastics are choking our environment. And leaders can’t agree on how to tame this monster we have created.
Plastics also affect our health in ways we are only just beginning to understand.
Microplastics and nanoplastics — incredibly tiny bits of plastic that break off and shed from larger products — have made their way into many of the tissues of our bodies , including our brain, reproductive organs (both male and female), and cardiovascular system.
“It’s much more pervasive than meets the eye,” Dr. Leonardo Trasande, the director of environmental pediatrics and the vice chair for pediatric research at NYU School of Medicine, recently told CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta on his podcast Chasing Life. Trasande has spent the last two decades studying how environmental exposures, including to microplastics, affect our health.
“We eat a lot of plastic. We inhale a lot of plastic” in the form of dust, Trasande said. “We literally use cosmetics that resorb in our body… We’ve just come to accept plastic as normal. And it’s not normal.”
Chemicals that leach from plastics
It’s not just the plastic itself that is wreaking havoc on the human body, which Trasande said causes irritation and inflammation. He also worries about what’s in the plastic, too.
“There are additives that are intentionally added,” Trasande explained. “We think of the crinkly polyvinyl chloride plastic that we’re so used to in food packaging, as coming that way just on its own, but phthalates are added to polyvinyl chloride to make it softer.”
The additives that Trasande is worried about include phthalates (used in personal care products and food packaging), bisphenols
are in many of your body’s organs and tissues
(used in aluminum can linings and thermal paper receipts) and perand polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), so-called forever chemicals because they don’t break down easily in the environment.
“Then there are nonintentionally added substances. So there are things that are impurities or other materials that get into the mix,” he said.
As it turns out, many of these added chemicals (not to mention the unintentional impurities) are not good for our bodies. The main concern: disruption of the endocrine system.
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs that produce and release hormones which control many of our body’s basic functions, such as metabolism, growth and reproduction.
“The endocrine system isn’t everything, it’s the only thing,” said Trasande. “And that’s because endocrine is hormone. Hormones are our signaling molecules, our master conductors of body communication… from gonads to heart to brain.”
The connections are “diverse and many” he said, regulating “everything from temperature, metabolism, salt, sugar, and even sex.”
CNN reached out to the American Chemistry Council for comment and received a statement via email, which read in part: “Companies that make chemicals and plastics are focused on producing chemistries that offer important safety, product performance and durability benefits and that can be used safely. Our members undertake extensive scientific analyses to evaluate potential risk of their chemicals, from development through use and
safe disposal.”
The US Food and Drug Administration webpage on Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Food notes there is some evidence that “microplastics and nanoplastics are entering the food supply.” But the agency states current scientific evidence “does not demonstrate that levels of microplastics or nanoplastics detected in foods pose a risk to human health.”
What can you do to reduce your exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics? Trasande has these five tips.
AVOID CANNED FOODS
While bisphenol A (BPA) — a chemical that was commonly used in the lining of many metal food and drink cans, lids and caps — is no longer present in the packaging for most products (think: canned tuna, soda and tomatoes), industry data show it is still used about 5% of the time, possibly more.
Plus, it is not clear if what has taken BPA’s place is any safer; by many accounts, one common substitute, bisphenol S, is as toxic to our health as BPA, and it has seeped into our environment as well.
“There are some cans that are that are bisphenol-free, but it’s very hard for a consumer to figure that out,” Trasande said, noting that some cans are now lined with naturally-derived resins, like oleoresin, a mixture of oil and resin extracted from plants such as pine or balsam fir.
“Can I say that they’re definitively safe? No,” he said. “But if I had two cans as my options — one was a BPA can and one was an oleoresin can — I’m going to pick the oleoresin can. But if I could avoid cans in the first place, that’s what I would do and
plastic; that’s the plastic that typically has phthalate added to it to soften it,” explained Trasande. Phthalates have been linked to a host of health problems, including preterm birth and early death and many other conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular issues, asthma, reproductive challenges and childhood obesity.
“Six is for polystyrene. It’s not the polystyrene per se, it’s that… styrene can break off from polystyrene and styrene is a very potent carcinogen,” he said.
“Seven is a catch-all; seven says ‘Other’” he said, noting that a consumer can’t know what’s in it. “That’s where I say, ‘If I don’t know, I don’t want to bother and take on that risk.’”
I would go with glass or stainless steel or fresh.”
KEEP PLASTIC CONTAINERS AWAY FROM HEAT, HARSH CLEANERS
Heat and harsh cleansers are not good for plastic for a couple of reasons.
“We’ve been lulled into this notion of microwave (and dishwasher) safe plastic,” said Trasande. “Microwave (and dishwasher) safe plastic is only for gross misshaping or warping of the plastic container.”
However if you look at the plastic container on a microscopic level, you can see the damage, he said.
“There’s two things going on here. One is that there are additives that are not (strongly) bound to the plastic, so those will come off under normal conditions,” Trasande explained.
“And then you also have the polymers that are the plastic. They break down… whether it’s to microplastics, nanoplastics or the chemicals themselves,” he said.
Trasande noted that those microscopic bits of chemical additives and/or plastic get absorbed into food, which you then ingest.
If the plastic is etched — a well-used plastic cutting board or a cracked lid, for example — definitely toss it because etching increases the odds of chemicals leaching into your food, too, he added.
AVOID PLASTICS
STAMPED WITH 3, 6 AND 7
Check the little recycling number on your bottle or container to find out what kind of plastic you’re dealing with.
“Three is for polyvinyl chloride
One more note regarding plastic bottles: if they are intended for single-use, recycle them after a single use, Trasande said. Not only are single-use plastics not designed for the level of wearand-tear of studier plastics — which can increase the risk of chemical contamination — but unless you wash them carefully with soap and warm water, you could be introducing bacterial contamination, to boot.
Use stainless steel or cast iron instead of non-stick pots and pans, Trasande suggested.
“That coating is a plastic coating,” he said, specifically PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Trasande said those so-called forever chemicals have gotten a lot of attention lately because they contaminate the water supply, too.
“If there is a theme… (it) is ‘What you think is not plastic may actually be plastic,’” he said.
KEEP THOSE DUST BUNNIES FROM MULTIPLYING
Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter and use a wet mop to keep dust bunnies from overrunning your living space. “The dust is a vector for these chemicals,” said Trasande.
Tiny micro and nanoplastics — broken off from many sources, including textiles used in clothing, furniture and carpets, as well as the water repellants, stain resisters and flame retardants applied to them — all float around and can accumulate into dust, Trasande said. “There’s plastic in so many parts of human society, and we track dust from lots of places.”
Air filtration can help too, he said, plus it has the added benefit of reducing the amount of bacteria and viruses (like those that cause colds, the flu and Covid) in addition to these chemicals. (CNN)
Microplastics are incredibly tiny bits of plastic that break off and shed from larger products
Former F1 team boss Jordan reveals cancer diagnosis
Former F1 team boss Eddie Jordan says he was diagnosed with a “quite aggressive” form of cancer earlier this year.
The 76-year-old revealed he suffered with bladder and prostate cancer which spread to his spine and pelvis.
Jordan, whose team competed between 1991 and 2005, is the current manager of design legend Adrian Newey.
Speaking on his Formula For Success podcast alongside co-host David Coulthard, Jordan urged listeners to “go and get tested, because in life, you’ve got chances”.
“We’ve kind of alluded to it over the shows, way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer, and
then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive,” said Jordan.
The Irishman highlighted that his situation is similar to that of sixtime Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who announced in October that his cancer is terminal.
“We’ve all heard about our wonderful friend, Sir Chris Hoy, who’s an absolute megastar, and he is coming out and talking about illnesses like what I’ve got, but he’s a far younger man,” he said.
“Go and do it. Don’t be stupid. Don’t be shy. It’s not a shy thing. Look after your body, guys.”
Jordan’s team, which was named after himself, entered 250 races in Formula 1, winning four times. (BBC)
Indian teen becomes youngest world chess champion
Indian teenager Gukesh Dommaraju has become the youngest-ever world chess champion after beating defending champion China’s Ding Liren in a dramatic turn on Thursday.
Dommaraju, 18, is four years younger than the former recordholder, Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who was 22 when he won the title in 1985.
The Chennai prodigy has long been a superstar in the chess world, having attained the status of chess grandmaster at the age of 12.
But he was seen as the outside challenger going into the final round of the FIDE World Chess Championship, held in Singapore this year.
Playing on black, Dommaraju won the game after Ding, who had
been in a solid position, made a fatal foolish move that gave up his last powerful piece.
His blunder delivered victory to the 18-year-old, who until now had been ranked fifth in the world and second in his own country.
The 14-game World Championship competition had been closely watched by chess fans around the world this past fortnight. Going into the final game on Thursday, Dommaraju and Ding had eight draws and two wins apiece.
Players receive one point for a win and half a point each for a draw. Dommaraju claimed the title on Thursday with a final score of 7.5 to 6.5, becoming just the 18th world chess champion.
The teenager comes from
Chennai, a city known as India’s chess capital for having produced so many national champions.
But there were no elite chess players in his family – he was enrolled in chess sessions after school because his father, a surgeon, and his mother, a medical professor, needed somewhere to put him.
His talent was spotted there by coaches, who encouraged his family to invest in his training. In high school in 2019, he was crowned a grandmaster at the age of 12 years and seven months – the third-youngest in history.
The teenager has spoken before about how yoga and mindful thinking has helped him deal with the pressures of his chess career. (BBC)
Scheffler equals record for most wins in a year
Scottie Scheffler hit a sensational nine-under 63 as he capped a year of dominance by retaining the Hero World Challenge with a sixshot winning margin.
The world number one, who won the Masters and Olympic gold in 2024, claimed a record-equalling ninth title of the year with a bogeyfree round to triumph on 25 under.
The victory means he has won an incredible 42.9% of the 21 tournaments he has played in 2024.
“[That was] very satisfying,” he said after tying Tiger Woods (2000) and Vijay Singh (2004) for the most wins in a single season since 1950, although this event and the Olympics are not PGA Tour competitions.
break and come back and continue to play some pretty solid golf.”
Scheffler, who had not competed in a strokeplay event since winning the PGA Tour Championship in August, joined Woods (2006-2007) and Norway’s Viktor Hovland (2021-2022) as the only backto-back winners of the 20-man invitational event at Albany Golf Club in the Bahamas.
Scheffler, 28, birdied three of the first four holes and four of the final six as he romped to victory.
South Korea’s Tom Kim, who hit a 68, was a distant second while overnight leader Justin Thomas ended a shot further back in third.
PGA Championship closed with a one-under 71.
The 31-year-old followed birdies at the first and fourth holes with bogeys at the par-three second and fifth.
That allowed Scheffler, who holed an eight-foot birdie at the opening hole, a tap-in birdie at the par-five third and a stunning birdie putt from just inside 50 feet at the fourth, to take a lead he would not relinquish.
“It has been a great year and a fun year,” added Scheffler. “I have had a little bit of time to reflect, but I am not really sure how to assess it. It has just been pretty surreal, a lot of fun and I am just really grateful.” (BBC) “I
Thomas, who remains without a win since claiming the 2022 US
Eddie Jordan has worked as a broadcaster in F1 for the BBC and Channel 4
Chess grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju of India defeated defending champion Chinese player Ding Liren
Scottie Scheffler (right) has won 42.9% of the 21 tournaments he has played in 2024
Sabalenka voted WTA player of the year
World number one Aryna Sabalenka has been voted the WTA player of the year after securing four titles in 2024.
The Belarusian retained the Australian Open in January before winning the US Open in September - her third Grand Slam singles triumph.
The 26-year-old also secured
victories at the Cincinnati Open in August and the Wuhan Open in October, becoming the first woman to win the event three times.
In October she became world number one, ending Iga Swiatek’s 11-month stay at the summit.
That was despite missing Wimbledon with injury, while Sabalenka also opted out of the
Olympics in August to prioritise her health.
She finished the season with a 56-14 win-loss record.
It is the first time Sabalenka has been named player of the year, with Swiatek triumphing in 2022 and 2023.
The winners are voted for by international tennis media. (BBC)
NFL legend Belichick returns to game in college role
Legendary American football coach Bill Belichick has returned to the game after a year out but not as a coach in the NFL.
The 72-year-old, who won a record six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, has become head coach of the University of North Carolina.
After ending his 24-year spell with the Patriots at the end of last season, Belichick was interviewed by the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons but not offered a role.
Instead he fulfilled a number of broadcasting roles this season before accepting a three-year deal with the Tar Heels, worth a reported $30m (£23.5m).
Belichick’s father, Steve Belichick,
was an assistant coach at UNC from 1953-55. Bill Belichick takes over a Tar Heels programme that has not won a conference title since 1980.
Belichick said in a statement released by UNC: “I am excited for the opportunity. I grew up around college football with my dad and treasured those times.
“I have always wanted to coach in college and now I look forward to building the football programme in Chapel Hill.”
This is Belichick’s first coaching job in the college game having spent his entire career in the NFL, beginning in 1975 as a special assistant with the Baltimore Colts, who have since relocated to Indianapolis.
Fifa confirms Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup hosts
The 2034 men’s football World Cup will be held in Saudi Arabia, while Spain, Portugal and Morocco will be joint hosts for the 2030 tournament, world governing body Fifa has confirmed.
Three matches in the 2030 tournament will also be held in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay to mark 100 years of the competition.
The hosts for both World Cups were confirmed at Wednesday’s Extraordinary Fifa Congress meeting following a vote.
All 211 of Fifa’s member nations were represented at the meeting over a video link.
The hosts for both tournaments, and of the 2030 centenary celebrations, were confirmed via two separate votes.
The first selected Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina as the centenary hosts.
The second confirmed the three hosts for 2030, as well as Saudi Arabia being awarded the 2034 tournament.
Nations gave their votes by
sports and youth Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal celebrate the announcement
‘acclamation’ - clapping in front of their cameras via their video links.
In all three decisions just one voting option was available, and prior to the acclamation
Fifa’s secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said “all 211 [member associations] have effectively cast
their vote prior to the congress”.
The English Football Association showed its support for the bids - which were also backed by the Scottish and Welsh FAsafter saying it received assurances that all fans would be safe and welcome at a Saudi World Cup.
England’s FA said in a statement: “After a careful review of both proposals, we supported the two World Cup bids - from Spain/ Portugal/Morocco in 2030, and Saudi Arabia in 2034. Both bids are technically strong and meet the Fifa criteria to host the men’s
World Cup.
“Our focus is on ensuring that all our fans can attend and enjoy tournaments.”
Norway opted to abstain because of “concerns regarding the current Fifa World Cup bidding process”, not because Saudi Arabia were named hosts.
Switzerland’s football association also asked for its observations to be included in the congress minutes.
On Tuesday, the Swiss FA had said it would approve the Saudi bid for the 2034 World Cup, but demanded human rights must be monitored by both Fifa and the international labour organisation.
The Danish Football Union (DBU) said it supported the overall package of the two World Cup bids but wants Fifa to oversee human rights improvements.
Jesper Moller, DBU chairman, said: “We would have liked to see more bids for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups, and we are critical of the overall process.”
Sabalenka has won two Grand Slams and two WTA 1000 events in 2024
Bill Belichick won a record six Super Bowls in 24 years as the New England Patriots head coach
Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim al-Khalifa and Saudi Arabia’s minister of
Sports International
Sixteen-year-old breaks 200m record in 20.04secs
Australian teenage sensation Gout Gout has entered the record books by becoming the fastest 16-yearold in history over 200m.
He ran the distance in 20.04 seconds during the Australian schools championships in Brisbane on Saturday, breaking the national record set by Peter Norman when he won silver at the 1968 Olympics.
Gout’s time is the fastest ever by a 16-year-old and the second fastest by an athlete under the age of 18 - behind Erriyon Knighton’s 19.84 as a 17-year-old in 2021.
“It’s pretty crazy,” said Gout.
“Right now I can’t process it, but I guess tonight when I go to bed, I’ll think about it. These are adults. And me, I’m just a kid, and I’m running them (down).
“I’ve been chasing that record,
but I didn’t think it would come this year. I thought it would come maybe next year, the year after that.”
Gout, who turns 17 later this month, ran the fourth-fastest 100m by an Australian with a time of 10.04 on Friday.
At 6ft 2in, Gout’s speed and running style has earned him comparisons with Jamaican legend Usain Bolt.
Australian broadcaster ABC said Gout will travel to the United States next month to train with Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles.
The son of migrants from wartorn South Sudan, Gout lives in the Brisbane suburb of Ipswich.
The 2032 Olympics will be held in the Australian city, when Gout would be 24. (BBC)
Investigation into Kylian Mbappé rape allegations closed
Prosecutors in Sweden have closed an inquiry into a case of alleged rape, which Swedish media had linked to French football captain Kylian Mbappé.
Marina Chirakova, of the Swedish Prosecution Authority, said the investigation into an alleged attack reported to have taken place in Stockholm had ended due to a lack of evidence.
The Real Madrid player, one of football’s most high-profile stars, was never formally named by Swedish prosecutors or notified by them of being under suspicion of a crime.
In October, when the allegations surfaced, Mbappé’s lawyer said her client was preparing to clear his name with a claim for defamation. Mbappé previously described the reports as “fake news”.
Senior prosecutor Ms Chirakova, who headed the preliminary investigation, deemed the evidence “not sufficient to proceed further, and the investigation is therefore closed”.
The footballer’s lawyer declined to comment, according to Le Figaro newspaper.
The alleged rape and two cases of sexual harassment reportedly took place in a hotel in the Swedish capital on 10 October.
Several Swedish media outlets, including newspapers Aftonbladet and Expressen, and public broadcaster SVT, named Mbappé as a suspect.
He had been visiting Stockholm at the time.
Police were seen visiting the Bank hotel where he had stayed, with officers later leaving with bags. One report said they had taken clothing from the hotel in evidence.
On Sunday, speaking for the first time about the case on French TV show Clique, Mbappé said he was “not involved”.
“I haven’t received anything, no summons... I’m not involved.”
His lawyer previously condemned the Swedish media reports as defamatory and said that nothing was known of the complaint.
“[Mbappé] is never alone. He is never put in a position where he ends up in a situation that would
lead to him taking a risk,” MarieAlix Canu-Bernard said.
The Real Madrid forward this week scored his 50th Champions League goal. He transferred from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) earlier this year.
He won the World Cup as a teenager, in 2018, in Russia and scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final in Qatar - which France lost on penalties to Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
At PSG, he was part of a superstar trio with Messi and Brazilian forward Neymar.
Last year, the Paris-born star finished in third place for the Ballon d’Or and Best FIFA Men’s Player prizes. (BBC)
Body found in search for rugby player missing in flood
A body has been found in the search for former England rugby international Tom Voyce, who went missing in an area flooded during Storm Darragh.
Police feared the 43-year-old had died after trying to cross Abberwick Ford, near Bolton, Northumberland, in a vehicle which was then pulled along by the current.
A search had been ongoing since Sunday, but Northumbria Police’s Marine Unit discovered a body near Abberwick Mill earlier.
Formal identification is yet to take place, but Mr Voyce’s next of kin have been notified.
Concerns were raised after Mr Voyce, who was capped nine times for England from 2001 until 2006, had not returned home from being out with friends on Saturday evening.
is an extremely sad development and our thoughts very much continue to be with Mr Voyce’s loved ones.” Officers do not believe there to
be any third-party involvement.
The rugby player’s family and friends were involved in the search alongside the police, mountain rescue teams and the National Police Air Service.
His wife Anna and family previously thanked police, friends and the local community for their help and support.
The search was carried out in “very challenging” conditions
due to the river flow and level being heightened after the heavy rain over the weekend, police said.
Mr Voyce, from Truro in Cornwall, played for Wasps, Bath and Gloucester before retiring from the sport in 2013.
He previously worked for the bank Investec and has been living in Alnwick since 2020.
Writing on X on Wednesday, Rugby World Cup winner Lawrence Dallaglio said: “It’s the most horrific news and all I would say at this juncture is that please let us all respect Tom’s family and their suffering right now and keep them in all our thoughts.”
Matt Dawson, who played alongside Mr Voyce at Wasps between 2004 and 2006, previously said he could not “express his sadness”.
Gout’s time is the fastest ever by a 16-year-old
Kylian Mbappé
Former rugby player Tom Voyce, pictured here during his time at Gloucester, had been missing since Sunday
Northumbria Police’s Ch Supt Helena Barron said: “This
Sports National
TCIFA launches new safeguarding initiative
The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) officially launched its Safeguarding team as part of an ongoing initiative to improve the capacity and integrity of the FA and better serve the community.
The Safeguarding Committee, headed by Yunelsis Rodriguez Baez, has dedicated its time to create a safe and welcoming environment for those parties most vulnerable to harm, neglect and abuse.
According to a release from the FA, “This entails cultivating and maintaining new purpose intent policies, effectively handling safeguarding reports and following the relevant procedures to report and protect any and all victims involved”.
President of the FA, Sonia Fulford said that child abuse is a worldwide issue and that athletes can also be affected.
“Abuse in sports is an issue that affects countless young athletes around the world: Sports have the power to teach valuable life lessons—teamwork, perseverance, discipline—but sadly, the experience can be tainted by abuse in its many forms whether physical, emotional, sexual, or even neglect”.
The coach-athlete relationship, while meant to foster growth and skill, can sometimes be misused for control, intimidation, or exploitation.
The release added: “It’s important that we, as a community,
recognise the signs of abuse and take action to prevent it.
“Prevention for us, begins with creating an environment where children and other vulnerable individuals feel safe, supported, and respected. Coaches, parents, and officials must be well-trained in recognising inappropriate behaviour. The TCIFA is assiduously working to implement policies and changes that protect young athletes. Zero tolerance for any form of abuse WILL be the
Gillespie resigns as Pakistan Test coach
Jason Gillespie has resigned as head coach of Pakistan’s Test side.
The former Australia fast bowler was appointed in April on a two-year deal.
However, the 49-year-old has stepped down with Aqib Javed being named interim red-ball head coach, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said, external.
Former South Africa opener Gary Kirsten was named whiteball coach at the same time as Gillespie’s appointment and he resigned in October.
Gillespie lost his first series in charge against Bangladesh and was then removed from Pakistan’s selection panel after a heavy defeat by England in the opening Test of their series.
However, Pakistan went on
Jason Gillespie
to clinch the series 2-1.
At the time Gillespie told Sky Sports there were “frustrations from time to time” and that “it wasn’t what I signed up for, I’ll
be completely honest”. He then took charge of a whiteball tour to Australia in Kirsten’s absence, winning a one-day series but losing the T20 series.
standard. But it doesn’t end there.
“We must encourage communication open or anonymous, where athletes feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation. A culture of trust, respect, and accountability should be at the heart of every sports programme. Together, we can create a safe and positive space for every child to enjoy the benefits of football without fear.”
The FA noted that it was committed to protecting TCI’s football community by enforcing needed policies against abuse to ensure the sport remains a source of joy, growth, and empowerment.
The work has already begun to truly fortify and establish protective and principled beliefs.
This includes training members of the Safeguarding Committee to fully understand their roles and responsibilities. When asked about the work her team has been doing, Yunelsis Rodriquez emphasised their passion, “Our safeguarding team is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect.
“We are committed to upholding the highest standards of care and responsibility, ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are promptly addressed with respect, integrity, and compassion. By
fostering a culture of vigilance, awareness, and accountability, we aim to empower and safeguard the rights of those we serve, while working collaboratively with partners to prevent abuse and promote well-being. Through the FIFA Safeguarding programme, I am now, more than ever, equipped with a wealth of knowledge to manage and provide dispute resolution support wherever necessary.”
“We are focused now on advancing our plan to encompass adult safeguarding initiatives, workplace safety, anti-discrimination policy where individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of care and responsibility, ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are promptly addressed with respect, integrity, and compassion. By fostering a culture of vigilance, awareness, and accountability, we aim to empower and safeguard the rights of those we serve, while working collaboratively with partners to prevent abuse and promote well-being within our Turks and Caicos Islands football community. We encourage all parties within our community to join the conversation and create impactful initiatives to maintain a productive atmosphere."
President of the TCIFA, Sonia Fulford
Director of Women’s Football and President of the Safeguarding Committee, Yunelsis Rodriguez Baez
was appointed head coach on a two-year deal in April
OMAR’S CC REMAIN UNBEATEN IN T10 CRICKET
– Jaguars beat GK Foods
Omar’s Cricket Club registered a six-wicket victory against Kishco when action in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA), T10 cricket competition continued on Sunday at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.
In the latest clash, Omar’s won the toss and asked Kishco to take first strike.
The fall of regular wickets however restricted Kishco from exploding in the middle; in the end, they produced a workable 72 from their allotted 60 balls.
Marlon Turner led Omar’s with 3-22. Smijo Devassy was Kishco’s most productive batsman with 17 runs.
In response, Omar’s CC reached 77-4 in 7.3 overs.
Gareth Campbell, batting at five, smashed five fours and two sixes in his unbeaten score of 37.
He and Marlon Turner (10) added 43 unbeaten runs for the fourth wicket to ensure an easy win.
Prior to that clash, the Jaguars registered a seven-wicket win over GK Foods.
GK batted first and reached a respectable 104-5 from their allotted overs.
Rajkumar Casi led the attack with 22 unbeaten runs.
Bowling for the Jaguars, Daniel Bourne finished with 2-15 from two overs.
Bourne would return with the bat to deliver several destructive blows, six of which raced to the boundary and one which went over it. In the end, batting at two, he managed to pace his innings for a match-high 44 runs, which propelled Jaguars to 106-3 in 9.1 overs.
Ariharan Kuthalinham led GK in the bowling department with 2-14 runs from two overs.
CONCACAF x Generation Amazing kicked off the holiday fun with a football festival for young footballers in the Turks
Caicos Islands.
The next generation of TCI footballers was in action
