TC Weekly News March 30 - April 5, 2024

Still no date on Misick’s corruption trial

BY DELANA ISLES

Five months after two of the seven corruption accused were found guilty of bribery and money laundering, the judiciary has still not delivered a new judge or a new date for the retrial of the remaining three defendants.

Efforts to make contact with the judiciary over the past months have all been futile, and no communication has been made to the public about the upcoming trial.

Currently, former Premier Michael Misick, his brother Chalmers Misick and former minister of government, McAllister Hanchell are being kept in limbo as to their fate.

In a trial that began in December 2015, it is now the end of March 2024 and only four of the remaining seven defendants have been able to move on from the decade-long accusations of corruption, bribery and land flipping.

Of the four defendants, only two were convicted of bribery and money laundering – former Deputy Premier Floyd Hall was found guilty of one of his four charges (Bribery), while former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Clayton Greene was similarly found guilty on a money laundering charge.

Hall was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, while Greene received six months, both were granted bail and indicated their intention to appeal their convictions and sentences.

In his statement on what many thought was a surprising outcome, and just before he resigned as the Director of Public Prosecutions, King’s Counsel Eugene Otuonye had stated that the sentences for Hall and Green were drastically

reduced due in large part to the delays in the proceedings.

These delays have caused the lives of the defendants to be severely curtailed, particularly that of the chief defendant’s, as the process winds its way through the laborious court system.

Yet, to date, the judiciary – that is the Court’s Registrar and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution – is yet to offer the Turks and Caicos Islands public any indication when the penultimate stage of the trial will commence.

Efforts to reach the offices of both have been futile and according to information obtained by this publication, no one involved in the trial process is aware of what is going on.

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Last year, following the sentencing hearing for Hall and Greene, Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang had informed the court that she was recusing herself from the upcoming Misick et all trial, and would shortly be appointing a new judge to have carriage of that proceedings. It is now the end of March 2024, and there has been no announcement of a new judge, no

new date for the commencement of the retrial, and no one in the judiciary is answering questions related to the trial.

Meanwhile, there has also been no indication when the Appellate Court will hear the Hall and Greene appeals.

This past Wednesday, (March 27), the government reported that the Governor held a trilateral meeting with the Chief Justice and

the Premier on national security concerns, trial procedures and initiatives to support effectiveness and efficiency in delivering justice outcomes.

One would hope that the costliest trial to date in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ history was also a topic of conversation at that meeting. The trial continues to cost the TCI government a considerable sum of money.

TCIG seeks public input on utility reform

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a bid to address the rising needs of the rapidly growing Turks and Caicos Islands, the Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon Kyle Knowles has instructed the Energy and Utilities Commissioner to initiate a public consultation on the Multisector Public Utility Regulatory Reform Policy.

This comes in the wake of Cabinet approving a draft policy for the development of the regulatory framework.

The territory is experiencing unprecedented growth, and these events have highlighted the need for regulatory reform in the utility sector.

Despite the economic growth and prosperity of the islands, residents continue to bemoan the high cost of utilities and the poor and often unreliable service they are receiving from some utility providers in the islands.

Against this backdrop, the policy aims to establish a unified

Michael Misick

McAllister Hanchell

Hon Kyle Knowles

Congestion alleviation plan for the airport

- approximately 10,000 travellers passed through Howard Hamilton on Saturday

BY OLIVIA ROSE

It is no secret that the Turks and Caicos Islands is outpacing global destinations and is emerging as one of the best-performing destinations in the Americas, however, a lack of sufficient airport capacity to meet traffic demands and the resulting problem of congestion and delays is casting a shadow on the visitor experience.

As thousands of holidaymakers continue to pour into the Turks and Caicos Islands, especially on Saturdays, congestion at the Howard Hamilton International Airport is at a tipping point.

The TCI has enjoyed a record start to 2024 with a surge in air arrivals during January and February, outpacing the same period in 2023 and March is on its way to be another record-setting month, as visitors look for a perfect spring break getaway.

However, their initial enthusiasm to ‘soak up the sun’ on the island is tempered by extremely long queues and longer wait times to clear security checks, flight delays and flight cancellations among other issues.

The increase in traffic at the airport especially on the weekend has become a major

concern of airport authorities and airlines and innovative means of accommodating the ever-increasing airline traffic are being explored including a redevelopment and modernisation plan for the airport which is currently high on the list of infrastructural priorities for the government.

Last Saturday, approximately 10,000 travellers descended on the Howard Hamilton International Airport which triggered another congestion issue for the arriving and departing passengers.

CONGESTION ALLEVIATION PLAN

Speaking to the Weekly News, Terminal Manager Mr Synkero Missick said the airport is making strides in completing its strategic Congestion Alleviation Plan that will significantly improve operations and ease congestion.

He said: “Now you must bear in mind that the terminal was built several years back and back then we weren’t experiencing as many aircrafts, so we are trying to work with the space that we do have.

“We actually have a congestion alleviation plan and the congestion alleviation plan is actually still ongoing, …and so we do believe that once we are finished with

the congestion alleviation plan, it should help us tremendously when it comes to the space that we have to work with.

He continued: “The congestion mitigation plan includes adding additional boarding gates, additional screening area, so we’ll have more screening areas, which means that persons will be able to be processed through security faster and also with additional gates, we’ll be able to board more flights at the same time, in addition to that, we’re also trying to include more seating space, more seating area in the international departure lounge on the second level.

He said the overall goal is to

process people faster and decrease the long lines at the airport.

“We do understand you know the frustration that that person that passengers are experiencing, and we do sympathise with them as well which is why we do try our best to make them as comfortable as possible during the process, but we have plans that are already ongoing and once that is completed we have high expectations for it to be to improve the conditions.”

He explained that the airport is working to spread out flights over the weekdays to decrease the weekend traffic.

He said: “There are currently works on going to try our best

to see if we can have something similar to that where the flights are not congested within the Saturday window.

“ But based on the nature of aviation, it will take some time, but we’ve already started working on that, so within the upcoming months, you’ll be able to have on the ground and running, and that way we won’t have as many aircrafts coming in within that window, so there ae plans to have them spread out.”

Missick stressed that although the Airport Authority and its hardworking staff are doing their

Hundreds of passengers queued up at the Howard Hamilton International Airport on Saturday (Photos by: Olivia Rose)

OVERCROWDED AIRPORT

An unexpected travel disruption left over 500 passengers stranded in the Turks and Caicos Islands after five flights were cancelled on Saturday, March 16th, 2024.

The territory’s booming tourism is proving to be a double-edged sword as the main gateway, the Howard Hamilton International Airport on Providenciales, is undeniably strained during peak seasons, such as spring break when thousands of holidaymakers are pouring into the territory.

However, Saturday’s cancellations were mainly due to pilots reaching their maximum allowable flight hours, per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, according to the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA).

A combination of factors, including an increase in passenger traffic and limited availability of parking gates at the airport also contributed to the cancellations. The unprecedented situation drew ire from hundreds of outbound holidaymakers hoping to return home after vacationing in the islands, and inbound passengers.

A total of 528 passengers were affected by the cancellations, and the TCIAA quickly worked to provide accommodations for the stranded passengers. The Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA) has since issued an apology and explanation of the events that led to the frustrating inconvenience caused to passengers and said it worked assiduously to ensure that all affected individuals were supported and accommodated.

Seventy-seven passengers chose to camp- out overnight at the airport, which remained open, while the remaining passengers were accommodated in various hotels and villas. What are your thoughts?

Lack of planning

The last thing these islands need is a Trip Advisor label that “they’re not ready for tourism, its expansion and the contingencies that must apply to a booming destination. Trip Advisor is malicious and in most cases, not helpful, which is why TCI needs to stay far from it.

The quality of a country is efficiency.

Like Switzerland, where the trains are said to “run on time”, to be exceptional TCI needs this kind of planning. The problem is that governments are not held to account, forced to resign or take responsibility for the debacle that took place at the airport.

This is that “spring break-time of the year” when the FBOs are full, people book in advance and the likely result is that the airport is overcrowded. It was not designed for the kind of “Quality” tourism that the islands attract today. The Howard

More problems expected

The Easter weekend of 2024 will see another round of too many persons using the airport but the building is not ready. It is small, undersized, not fit for purpose and in a kinder-gentler manner of speaking, “hot”. It cannot do what is needed to be done to “capture the moment” for the kind of traffic expected and planned. More than anything else, the events of March 16, 2024, were predictable.

Just like any professional, accountant or doctor, they must be up all night, thinking hard about what to do to protect the client or patient. A responsible minister, CEO of the TCIAA, head of the DMO, should now be up, planning all manner of contingencies to prevent a repeat of the events that led to total meltdown and chaos. Tourists spend a lot of money coming to the TCI because they heard it was a “rather great, brilliant, jolly-good” place to visit. Compared to other destinations, it is ‘new’.

sorely missing on March 16, and they need to “bring Blythe back”.

Tourist Board vs DMO

While the Turks & Caicos Islands remain constant in the middle of a 30-year expansionary mode, it was not the best of things to do, to jettison the trusted Tourist Board and to replace it with a Destination Management Organisation (DMO”). It’s possible to suggest that this DMO has no “beginning nor end” and “nobody knows who its true owners are”.

Hamilton Airport was said to have outgrown itself even when plans were being made to build it in the first place. The “cuttingedge” tourism product is at risk because the fallout from the March 16, 2024 event is irrevocable. Where is the Minister, the DMO and the TCIAA? It proves once again that the so-called DMO is not up to the job, it never had the ability to manage a crisis of this nature. It is like having a fiveyear-old child mandated to manage a major national industry. The result would lead to chaos. They do not have the track record to manage a situation of this nature. In the old days, the minister responsible would tender his or her resignation to the Premier. This was a failure to plan and such failures require immediate resignations. This kind of self-control would behoove a minister to be responsible, diligent and forward in his or her planning.

They heard that things tend to work and things were held to be “on time”. A visitor who wrote an expletive-ridden social media commentary basically saw through the lack of planning. That expletive-laden rant, exposed the failure of the DMO, without naming it. The DMO was put full blast by exasperated departing passengers. In one paragraph they silently called for the resignations of the Airports Authority (TCIAA), the DMO, and the minister. It was stated that the departure lounge was ‘hot’, something that TCIslanders and residents find as they clear security.

Owing to the crowds, they complained that there was no sitting room and people had to wait four hours before they could get into the departure lounge. Then to add insult to injury passengers literally had to “run in the rain” to get to their planes. Most critically, they called the employees “careless”. This is one label you do not want as a destination. One would realise that if these passengers thought that someone cared, the reaction to the incompetence would not be so “visceral, toxic or bitter”. At least under the Tourist Board, there was customer service training and Ms Blythe Clare was keen to ensure that customer service agents took care of visitors, local residents or tourists. This was

One thing is certain, it is not “fit for purpose” and cannot in any way make a positive impact on the management of the tourism product and the TCI as a destination. This was clearly seen on March 16, 2024, when the Ministers, Premier, TCIAA and the DMO were caught like a deer in the headlights, not knowing what to do with flight cancellations and the surge in traffic at the airport. Former Minister of Tourism, the Hon Ralph Higgs pointed out that this DMO has no known leader and no strategic or comprehensive marketing plan in place.

In the absence of the right leadership with experience and knowledge of “things local”, chaos would have been the result. This is a sad indictment on the “pre-emptive and premature” removal of the age-old Tourist Board for a hapless entity such as the DMO. Regarding, the TCIAA, he highlights that any monies collected there are sitting in a bank account ‘doing nothing’. In fact, monies are not at issue but they are not being deployed in any way to deal with issues of this nature. With the right kind of leadership, monies could have been redeployed to deal

Congestion alleviation plan for the airport

CONTINUED FROM  5

best to ensure passengers have an enjoyable experience, rearranging flights is not an easy feat.

He said: “Most persons would normally book their travel or vacation, you know, months in advance, sometimes even a year or more in advance, but because of nature, we have to tackle it, but probably won’t be until the coming months, but we are working on that.”

Coupled with this, ongoing extensive renovation works at the Airport encompass a range of critical enhancements including; extended vehicle drop-off; new airline office; security checked baggage search room which

allows our customers to remain within the departure area when additional screening is required; second-level security screening lane; expansion of the international departures hold room on second level; a new second-level access to new departures area; relocating of the diplomats lounge; VIP flyer lounge; extension of the in-transit passenger screening area and expansion of departures boarding gates.

In the meantime, to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for all passengers, the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority has advised passengers not to arrive more than 3 hours before their scheduled flight departure time.

with umbrellas, small things, tents, and most critically customer service training. Yet without the experience and know-how on what to do, in times of crisis, having the money on hand cannot help.

They best heed the advice of the Hon Higgs. He’s correct, that the DMO “has fallen short” of the industry’s expectations. What is needed is the need for that kind of dynamic leadership in the tourism sector which would coordinate the regulatory, operational and day-to-day management of the destination. This is sorely missing from the DMO.

The Tourist Board carried a regulatory and operational mandate. Licensing in the tourism sector rested with that Board and it had an institutional memory. Most of all we knew who owned it. The impacts of flight cancellations, and unexpected visitors could have been managed and mitigated by having staffers at the airport who were trained in dealing with customer services and crisis events. If most of them were properly - trained, the epitaph of they do not ‘care’ would not have been proverbially hurled at the DMO, TCIAA, minister and government.

Trained and experienced personnel would have had an action plan in place; arranged extra flights, coordinated with resorts, predicted the event, obtained umbrellas, requisitioned mobile air conditioners and improved the situation with alas, “air-conditioned tents”. It is safe to vouch that the Tourist Board had this ability, owing to years of “being around”, to do all of these things and to coordinate with the TCIAA in a meaningful and “leadership” kind of way.

Hurting the brand

There is an emerging estate in media, that is disjointed, not properly managed and this is social media. It is a horse that owing to the convergent nature of technology, cannot be manned. With freedom of speech, it is good and bad. Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp all, will try and shape “the narrative” in a most uncoordinated

The TCIAA advised travellers that beginning March 23 and continuing for the subsequent two months, on peak travel days passenger numbers are projected to exceed 10,000, posing considerable operational challenges.

In response to this advisory, both residents and travellers weighed in on the situation via TCIAA’s Facebook page and called on the Government to speed up the redevelopment project.

Lynn Robinson a resident of Providenciales said: “Development should be halted until the infrastructure of the airport, roads and now the water supply has been improved, what next? Regular evening power cuts? The island cannot cope with any more resorts,

way. Governments are wary of this but must plan to be ahead of even that. They cannot control the narrative any longer. In the wake of the March 16, 2024, airport debacle, “under the auspices” of the DMO, TCIAA, and minister responsible, perhaps “not so responsible”, the situation at the Howard Hamilton International Airport melted down into ‘chaos and mismanagement’. Immediately disappointed travellers, local and touristic, took to social media to vent their frustrations.

Epithets like, ‘never fly into Turks & Caicos during high season’ emerged. Passengers suggested to what must be the TCIAA, DMO or government (the “High Command”) that maybe they ought to have brought in additional flights to alleviate the situation. It was always suggested to ferry passengers to Provo’s sister Island of North Caicos. They commented that “there was no real help on the ground”. They stated that the airport needed expansion, that it was ‘unhealthy and dirty. Admittedly, the expansion part is ‘longterm’ but issues such as cleaning, and improving “immediate” conditions, could have been addressed by the high command. There were negative comments on the bathroom facilities and the need for them to be cleaned. Social media had its way but a minister or government “responsible” could have “taken the lead” and addressed these crisis issues “ahead of time”. Owing to the “immediate and rapid pace of social media, the pristine and clean brand of the TCI has been “besmirched and destroyed”. It requires proper management, forward-thinking, and leadership to correct the damage and destruction inflicted on the brand.

Not rocket science

There is a problem with overcrowding at the airports during peak season, this is not a new phenomenon, so why are the relevant authorities just focused on excuses?

Every possibility needs to be known, this is not a third-world country, TCI is promoting itself as a luxury brand, and the airport is a big selling point.

especially the unsightly high rises that are going up.”

Another resident, Clarie Alonzo Astwood wrote “Unfortunately, the events of last Saturday highlighted that we are in a position of having an extremely high demand without the systems and infrastructure to service it. It is quite alarming that this occurrence may continue for the next three months.

“As seen in the videos and reports, numerous tourists expressed their frustrations even to the point of highlighting that they aren’t considering a return purely due to the airport experience.

“If this trend continues then it may lead to a spiralling effect where more and more tourists choose to avoid the destination due to their experience but as well the publicity and word of mouth may end up causing others to do the same.

“I do hope that there are measures which the TCIAA will be taking to better plan, manage and coordinate for the Saturday arrivals and departures.”

A recent visitor from Vancouver, Kelly Norcott Ames said: “How about admitting you can’t handle

this much traffic and manage the number of planes coming in so people aren’t stuffed like sardines in a hot sweaty airport with no room to move. It’s totally unacceptable, the airport is not equipped to handle the traffic you’re allowing to come in.”

A multimillion-dollar redevelopment project is in the pipeline and five International construction companies have been shortlisted to compete for a Public Private Partnership agreement to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the Howard Hamilton International Airport.

When completed it is expected to give the Howard Hamilton International Airport formerly known as the Providenciales International Airport a life cycle of at least forty years.

The massive project which is likely to be one of the largest infrastructure and operations enhancement projects undertaken in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands, will see the construction of a parallel taxiway and a new stateof-the-art passenger terminal to accommodate a projected growth of circa 2.5 million passengers among other upgrades and enhancements.

TCIG seeks public input on utility ...

CONTINUED FROM  4

rate increase and Provo Water Company’s declaration of water shortages.

Minister Knowles stated,

“I have asked the Energy and Utilities Commissioner to begin a consultation period, signalling our commitment to overhauling the regulatory system that governs our essential services”.

The consultation which got underway on Monday, March 25th will conclude on May 24th, 2024, and will be open to service providers, consumer groups, industry experts, and members of the public.

The overall goal is to create a regulatory framework that is inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of the community.

The Minister continued,

“The envisaged regulatory reforms will not only address the concerns highlighted by the applications from FortisTCI and the operational challenges faced by Provo Water Company but also lay the groundwork for a sustainable utility infrastructure that can accommodate the future growth of our islands.”

A unified regulatory commission, as proposed, will serve as the cornerstone of this new framework, offering comprehensive oversight and ensuring that utility services are aligned with the nation’s development goals and the well-being of the local community.

The Public Safety and Utilities Minister urged service providers, consumer groups, industry experts, and the wider community to participate actively in guiding a regulatory environment that ensures affordability, reliability, competitiveness, innovation, and environmental sustainability.

“We encourage all stakeholders to engage with this process by attending the scheduled sessions, providing feedback, and submitting comments on the draft policy.”

He underscored that the participation of all stakeholders in the consultation process will help shape a regulatory framework that reflects the collective vision and priorities of the TCI.

PDM reveals ‘fantastic five’ All-Island Candidates

BY DELANA ISLES

Some notable names were revealed when the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), who are a twoman team in Parliament, rolled out their candidates who will contest the next general election as allisland (at-large) candidates.

Leader of the PDM and the Official Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, named the three men and two women who will form part of their dynamic 2025 election team on Friday last.

No surprise is the appearance of Robert Been Jr – who is the Deputy Leader of the party – with the new addition of Dr Ruth Ariza, who has never held elected office in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Joining them are three return elected members – former Deputy Premier Sean Astwood, former Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs, and the former Minister of Education, Karen Malcolm.

The party is yet to reveal who their constituency candidates are, but a safe bet would be that party leader, Honourable Edwin Astwood would be returning as a candidate for Grand Turk South, a seat he has won in two consecutive elections, and most memorable the only PDM candidate to win a seat in the House of Assembly in the 2020 elections.

Previously, former Chief Minister, Oswald Skippings had indicated his interest in returning to his party, having parted ways with the PDM in 2012 when he lost the elections for them, and calls were made for his resignation as party leader.

Back in September 2023, the

former Chief Minister revealed that he would like to contest the next general election as an allisland candidate or as a candidate for Grand Turk North.

Following his resignation as PDM leader, Skippings formed his own party, the PDA, but was unsuccessful in his ambitious bid to win the election.

Meanwhile, Skippings still has a chance to appear on the PDM ballot, as constituency candidates will be revealed shortly, sooner rather than later.

All eyes though, are on the PDM as they are the party that was trounced so badly at the last election; and given the current administration’s track record with the electorate, 2025 will be an election to watch closely.

Following the announcement of their all-island candidates, the PDM issued a letter to all interested parties who had applied for the upcoming general elections.

The tone of the letter suggests that interest is ripe in the party.

That statement reads: “The PDM respects all applicants who applied to represent our team in the upcoming general elections.

“Due to our immense respect for all applicants, we formally notified each applicant prior to the launch of our ‘Fantastic Five All Island Candidates’.”

It continued: “We recognise putting oneself forward to serve our country at one of the highest levels must be admired. Once again thank you.”

The statement further indicated that a “high calibre” of individuals had expressed their interest in contesting the 2025 election

under the PDM umbrella, as such the selection process was a bit difficult.

“This decision was not an easy one due to the high calibre of applications received.

Moesha Morris appointed as senior procurement officer

Ms Moesha Morris has been appointed as the territory’s new senior procurement officer in the Contracts and Corporate Performance Management Department within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

The Office of the Deputy Governor announced the appointment on Thursday, March 28, 2024.

Ms Morris’ journey within the civil service commenced in 2016 when she joined the Human Resource Management Directorate

as a Clerical Assistant, marking the beginning of her dedicated service to the nation. Demonstrating a keen intellect and a strong work ethic, she quickly made her mark, earning accolades for her contributions to the department’s operations.

Building upon her foundational experiences, Ms Morris pursued higher education, completing an Associate’s Degree in General Studies (Humanities) at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for

understanding human behavior, she embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Oxford Brookes University.

Upon the successful completion of her studies, Ms Morris returned to the civil service in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose. With determination and dedication, she navigated through various roles, showcasing

“We value you as a member of the People’s Democratic Movement and look forward to working with you in various capacities to ensure a PDM victory in the next election and a government that is for the people.”

Meanwhile, TCI awaits the ruling party’s All Island Candidates; particularly given the recent tension coming out of their national congress.

PDM selects their “Fantastic Five All-Island Candidates” (Photo courtesy of PDM)

Ms Moesha Morris

TCI’s first Mortgage Corporation gets $7m seed funding

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The government has earmarked a whopping $7m in seed funding for the territory’s first Mortgage Corporation Fund to boost homeownership in the islands.

This comes as the House of Assembly recently passed the National Wealth Fund (Amendment) Bill 2024.

According to the Amended section of the National Wealth Fund (Amendment) Ordinance 2024, “The sum of $7,000,000 shall be transferred from the Consolidated Fund to the Mortgage Corporation Fund on the coming into operation of this Ordinance.”

The Bill was tabled along with the Supplementary Appropriations Bill in the House of Assembly on Monday, March 25, 2024, by the Minister of Finance Investment and Trade Hon Premier Charles Washington Misick.

The creation of the Mortgage Fund is in keeping with the government’s plans to encourage and promote more accessible and affordable home ownership in the islands.

The amendments to the National Wealth Fund Ordinance, also specified how funds will be allocated to the various sub-funds under the National Wealth Funds’ umbrella namely; the Stabilisation Fund, Infrastructure and Competitiveness Fund, Heritage Fund, Citizens Empowerment Fund, and Mortgage Corporation Fund.

OPPOSITION’S CONCERNS

Although Opposition members supported the creation of the Mortgage Corporation Fund, they expressed concerns that the money came from rerouted funds

from longstanding Capital projects slated for community upgrades.

In this regard, Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood questioned if some of these Capital projects would be defunded entirely.

He said: “So I’m wondering if we’re now defunding some of them, if they will still be able to carry out their mandate, we have such low percentages. I was just wondering, I didn’t know how the percentages work, but I’ve seen half percent go this way, half percent go that way, half percent is very close to zero.

“So I’m just wondering if we are purposely moving them away and defunding them just by putting half percent there?”, Astwood asked.

In response to the Leader of the Opposition’s concerns, Premier Misick said: “When the citizen Empowerment Fund was established, 1% went to it and now that we’ve established the mortgage fund, a half percent each is going to it, because they are both empowerment funds, and they’re both temporary, because they will be organisations that will stand on their own.

“And of course, the government always have the ability in the future, to establish funds or for that matter, to allocate funds to these organizations because they are both Empowerment.”

Premier Misick explained that the purpose of the National Wealth Fund, which encompasses several other funds, is to save and invest surplus revenues, to provide a mechanism for the management and investment of those funds, to generate alternative streams of income to undertake the large scale infrastructural investments, to provide economic stabilisation

during periods in the event of an economic downturn turn owing to an external shock or natural disaster and to save for posterity to provide a heritage for future generations of islanders from the savings and investment derived from surplus revenue.

Misick continued “But in order to capture it, to lock the money away on a temporary basis, until these institutions are set up, we have to put it somewhere…so we’ve had to create a holding place at this moment it is the Sovereign Wealth Fund or the National Wealth Fund.

“So it doesn’t mean that they will get one half percent, it means that in future when it comes to the mortgage fund, the government may decide to make an allocation from the Heritage Fund to the mortgage fund.”

Echoing similar sentiments, All-Island Member of the House of Assembly Hon Akierra Misick explained that the $7m earmarked for the Mortgage Corporation fund will be held in the national wealth fund until the Mortgage Corporation comes to fruition.

She said: “Now when the Mortgage Corporation is created, then that ordinance would provide how it’s going to be seeded and we are saying that it will be seeded from the national wealth funds bucket that is called Mortgage Corporation fund.

“So in the national wealth fund, there are five buckets and each one has a certain amount assigned to it, and so when an action takes place that reflects or is impacted by a bucket or a bucket can impact it, then the bucket is tipped, and some of the money comes out of the bucket for what it’s required for.”

During the debate, Former Minister of Finance Investment and Trade, Hon Erwin Saunders reminded the House that the Premier and Governor recently signed a new public financial management framework in 2023 which dictates the national wealth fund’s functions.

He said: “In 2017, the Turks and Caicos Islands government passed legislation to establish a Turks and Caicos National Wealth Fund, which provides for the setting aside of reserves.

“The TCI national wealth fund is aimed at building economic resilience and for other desirable development purposes.”

Saunders further explained that measures included in the legislation to govern the transfer of resources to the reserves, “procedures for the transferring resources among the reserves and definition of the purposes for which the reserves can be used, rules regarding the investment of the resources of the reserves, rules for maintaining adequate liquid resources depending on the purpose of which the reserves will be used”.

He said: “With the establishment of the National Wealth on debt provisions for the establishment of reserves in any financial year because these have been changed now when any financial year the actual revenue exceeds the estimated revenues by 5% but less than 20% of the revenue for that financial year, shall be withdrawn from the consolidated fund and deposit to the National Wealth Fund, or 20% or more 70% of the excess of the revenue for that financial year shall be withdrawn from the consolidated fund and deposit to the national wealth fund

so that’s how the national wealth fund gets funding and then it’s split based on the ratios.”

SOLUTIONS FOR THE MARGINALISED

Speaking in the House of Assembly on Thursday, February 15th, 2024, Hon. Saunders said the mortgage corporation will offer housing finance solutions to “under-served or marginalised” Turks and Caicos Islanders and promote financial inclusion.

He said: “The mortgage corporation will go a long way to helping to increase homeownership rates among our people.

“The mortgage corporation will be able to offer competitive interest rates compared to the main banks in the islands.

“Lower interest rates make borrowing more affordable for Turks and Caicos Islanders, enabling our people, especially our young people, to purchase homes or invest in property development.

“By facilitating more home purchases and construction, our government expects that the mortgage corporation will stimulate the economy, including creating jobs in the construction and real estate sectors.”

He stressed that the corporation will complement TCIG’s Housing Policy initiatives, and will provide a consistent source of mortgage financing that will help to stabilize the housing market, especially during economic downturns.

The mortgage corporation will be able to offer financial products tailored to the specific needs of Turks and Caicos Islanders, including loans for renovations, expansions, and improvements –loans that are not easily accessible from banks in the TCI.

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick delivering remarks during the House of Assembly

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood

BY DELANA ISLES

Former Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs calls DMMO a big flop – search is on for a new CEO

All-Island candidate for the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is once again expressing his displeasure at the dismantling of the Tourist Board and the Destination Marketing and Management Organisation’s (DMMO) alleged lack of performance.

Now familiarly known as ‘Experience Turks and Caicos’, Honourable Ralph Higgs in statements this week said not much is going on with the organisation, one year since the Tourist Board was dismantled and DMMO assumed its role.

Higgs also blasted the now former Interim Chief Executive Officer, Raquel Brown, whom he said has failed to achieve the organisation’s mandate.

This is not the first time that the former tourism minister has expressed his displeasure at the ruling party’s decision to scrap the tourist board. The Opposition has claimed from the inception that the old structure was successful and should have been retained with an expanded mandate.

In a strongly worded statement on the matter Higgs alleged: “It has been almost one year since the ill-advised closure of the Tourist Board, one of the country’s oldest and most recognised institutions.

“Its replacement, the DMMO/ Experience Turks and Caicos, has fallen far short of the Government’s, Turks and Caicos Islanders’ and industry’s expectations.

“All of the grand ideas and promises associated with the

rollout of the DMO have so far turned out to be nothing but fluff.”

Higgs also alleged that many civil servants share his views about the organisation’s lack of success.

“In many government circles, it is widely accepted that demolishing the Tourist Board by the premier and his minister of tourism, laying off the majority of its experienced staff and closing all of the country’s marketing, promotions and representative offices was a big mistake.”

According to Higgs, to date the Organisation has not been able to - with few exceptionshire the number of qualified and experienced staff to properly run the organisation.

Those few exceptions are for

the most part Turks and Caicos Islanders, however, according to Higgs, Change Manager Racquel Brown, who was recruited from overseas to manage the transition, has left the DMO without achieving the organisation’s goals at this juncture.

Weekly News reached out to the Public Relations Manager, Laura Dowrich-Phillips to ascertain whether Experience Turks and Caicos currently has a new Chief Executive.

This publication was subsequently referred to Alvin Hegner, who we were made to understand is currently acting CEO of the organisation. However, as at time of press, the acting Chief Executive had not

responded.

The government has been actively seeking a replacement for Brown, with advertisements in local newspapers.

Information reaching our news desk is that a wide net has been cast in order to recruit the best person for the job, namely, in the TCI, the Caribbean and further afield.

The former Tourism Minister’s claim that the TCI’s main industry – the tourism sector - is currently without a leader was rubbished by Hegner.

Higgs claimed that there is no comprehensive or strategic marketing plan in place to keep Turks and Caicos Islands visible in the marketplace.

“Since the Ministry of Tourism

closed our representative offices in the United States, Canada, UK, Brazil, and Italy, which the Tourist Board successfully ran for many years (some since the late nineties) our country has had no sale’s presence, no advertising or public relations campaigns in these our major source markets,” Higgs stated.

Higgs went on to claim that the newly restructured organisation has not contributed anything to the recent growth being seen in the country’s tourism industry.

He said: “In fact, since the demolition of the Tourist Board, TCI’s tourism has been on autopilot following the pace, course and goodwill, previously set by the Tourist Board.”

He said most of the country’s major infrastructure, which is needed to support the tourism sector, ease of life and doing business in the TCI have fallen in a serious state of disrepair.

Further claiming that: “Product development or enhancement of our natural attractions is almost a thing of the past. As a result, too many of our national parks, nature reserves and sanctuaries, towns and communities are in need of lots of TLC (Tender Love and Care).”

The former minister stated that the national trust should be on the board of directors of the DMMO, so as to ensure that historical sites are kept up through the country’s successful tourism industry.

“It is also the view of many professionals in the tourism sector

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Moesha Morris appointed as senior procurement ...

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her versatility and commitment to professional development. From Administrative Officer to Scholarship Officer, and then to Procurement Officer, she steadily ascended the ranks, earning recognition for her exemplary performance and leadership qualities.

Ms Morris is distinguished as a self-motivated, results-driven individual with a resolute work ethic and an unyielding pursuit of excellence in every endeavour. Her relentless commitment to continuous improvement is exemplified by her ongoing pursuit of professional

certifications with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply.

These endeavours underscore her dedication to enhancing her expertise in procurement and project management, positioning her to provide invaluable counsel on procurement matters across government entities and public bodies.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Morris expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve in her new capacity:

“I am thrilled and deeply honoured to step into my new role as Senior Procurement Officer within the Contracts

and Corporate Performance Management Department. This promotion is a testament to my belief that hard work and dedication truly prevail in the professional world. I am humbled by the recognition of my efforts and grateful for the opportunity to further contribute to our department’s success. Achieving this promotion within just 12 months is truly remarkable, and it reinforces my commitment to excellence in every aspect of my work. I will remain committed to driving impactful outcomes and upholding the standards of the Public Service.”

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams in extending

congratulatory remarks to Ms. Morris stated:

“It is with great pleasure that I extend my congratulations to Ms. Moesha Morris on her appointment as Senior Procurement Officer in the Contracts and Corporate Performance Management Department within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Ms Morris’ exemplary track record of academic achievement, professional competence, and dedication to public service make her an outstanding choice for this important role. Her passion for procurement excellence and her commitment to continuous improvement will undoubtedly

contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement processes within government entities.

“In her new capacity, Ms Morris will play a vital role in driving forward the government’s public sector investment programme, ensuring transparency, accountability, and value for money in the procurement of goods and services.

“We wish Ms Morris well as she continues to serve, and my office stands ready to assist in whichever we can to aid her further development.

“Congratulations on your welldeserved appointment, Moesha!”

Ex-minister of tourism, Ralph Higg

Acting CEO of Experience Turks & Caicos, Alvin Hegner

National Apprentice and Internship programme wraps up skills training

The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Social Services hosted the final session of Soft Skills training for the 2023/24 cohort of Apprentices on March 24th, 2024.

Minister of Education, Hon Rachel Marshall Taylor, Deputy Permanent Secretary Ms Keisha Taylor, and Ms Melanie D. Smith were in attendance to provide remarks and lead discussions on the importance of soft skills training and its role in building human capital in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

To be eligible for enrollment as an apprentice you must be a Turks & Caicos Islander or British Overseas Territory Citizen, have completed your studies within the past two years, under the age of 30 and desirous of gaining valuable work experience while seeking permanent employment.

During her remarks, Minister Taylor stressed that the programme is designed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the workplace.

She emphasised the need to empower young people, especially young women, in observance of National Women’s Month.

She also provided updates on the Ministry of Education’s endeavors about the enforcement of the bond for scholarship students and the potential revision of the National Apprentice and Internship program’s policy to encourage the return of Turks and Caicos Islands international students through potential pay increases.

Deputy Permanent Secretary Ms

Keisha Taylor during her speech expressed concerns regarding returning students’ limited job opportunities due to lack of work experience and shared her contentment about having programs such as this to bridge the gap in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

She also encouraged apprentices to provide feedback on the program so the ministry can work to better it for future endeavors.

The session was led by Ms Smith, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Talent Recruitment Group, a locally owned recruiting and staffing firm.

In her lecture, she underscored the significance of analytical thinking and cohesive connections,

Former Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs calls DMMO a big ...

CONTINUED 

that the Board of Directors of the DMO is made up of too many career civil servants and political appointees of statutory bodies to be effective.”

Higgs said he only tangible achievement of Experience Turks and Caicos to date, is the introduction of $10 tax on travellers to the TCI.

He said: “Sadly, the money collected from this new tax sits in the TCI Airport Authority’s bank account and is not being deployed for the betterment of TCI Tourism.”

The jury is still out on the DMMO, the former minister said.

“Most people now believe that the demolition of the Tourist Board and firing of most of its staff was not necessary.

“They also believe that a revamped Tourist Board, with an amended an improved Tourism Ordinance, with the same budget that the DMO now received, would have been a smarter way forward for TCI Tourism.

“Experience Turks and Caicos has not yet given us any experiences which will allow the people of the TCI to give them anything more than an F-plus,” Higgs stated.

leading participants in discussions centered around achieving collective success, enhancing communication effectiveness, fostering a culture of mutual respect, and defining clear roles

and responsibilities to streamline workflow. The session also highlighted the importance of promoting collaboration, trust, and synergy within teams, aiming to improve overall job satisfaction

among employees.

The cohort of apprentices in attendance included Rashuanda Cooke, Raynae Myers, Deante James, Brina Smith, Sakile Garland, and Cesleika Cox.

This marked the end of their soft skills training sessions for the program, during which they were able to share feedback with event coordinators about their experiences.

Among the updates shared, Rashuanda Cooke announced her upcoming swearing-in ceremony with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. She will be joining as a Special Constable with the Forensic Support Branch.

The Ministry of Education congratulated her on her achievement and wished her the best in her future endeavors.

Overall, the Apprenticeship Soft Skills Training programme was a success, with the 2023/24 cohort of apprentices completing their training and each being awarded a certificate.

Davis Gardiner Jr appointed as executive administrator

The Office of the Deputy Governor is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Davis Gardiner Jr to the post of Executive Administrator within the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services.

Mr Gardiner’s journey towards professional excellence began with his secondary education at Raymond Gardiner High School, where he demonstrated a commitment to academic achievement and personal growth. Building upon this foundation, he is currently enrolled at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, pursuing his Associate’s Degree in preparation for further studies in Business Management.

His dedication to continuous learning and professional development underscores his ambition and determination to excel in his chosen field.

Mr Gardiner’s appointment as Executive Administrator within the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services marks a significant milestone in his career

Ms Melanie D. Smith, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Talent Recruitment Group, Apprentices and Minister of Education Hon Rachel Taylor

Andaz Turks and Caicos surpasses $70m in sales

Andaz Turks & Caicos Residences at Grace Bay, Hyatt’s flagship TCI property, has surpassed $70m in sales to date.

Andaz Turks & Caicos Residences at Grace Bay announced its mega milestone in a statement on Thursday, March 28, 2024 as the highly-anticipated resort and residential property continues to make significant construction progress ahead of its early 2026 debut.

The luxury boutique hotel and resort developed in partnership with Vista Development Inc. and BYD TCI Construction, has surpassed significant construction

milestones since breaking ground in August 2023, including taking the project vertical.

The property is slated to complete a new floor every 45 days, with vertical construction on track for a December 2025 completion.

Hyatt will begin welcoming owners and guests in early 2026 as the second luxury branded resort on Providenciales and the first for the Hyatt Hotels portfolio.

The first model hotel room will debut this June, adding a physical component to the Andaz Turks & Caicos’ sales office experience for owners and prospects. Since sales

launched, the project continues to see strong condo sales interest including the sell-out of its studio offerings and the upcoming release of new condo inventory including the premium “Reef Collection” units.

“The residences at Andaz Turks & Caicos represent an exclusive opportunity to own on Grace Bay Beach amidst a shortage of new condo inventory on the island,” says project developer Matt McDonald, co-founder of Vista Development, Ltd.

“Offering unparalleled access to Bight Reef, five-star amenities and exceptional onsite dining, we

TCI introduces “Rate Your Ride” system for tourists

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In an effort to enhance the vacation experience for tourists visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Department of Tourism Regulations has introduced the “Rate Your Ride” system.

The system which will allow tourists to provide reactions on their transportation experiences while vacationing in the islands, comes just days after a female tourist was allegedly assaulted by a jitney operator posing as a taxi driver.

The incident which has since been reported by several international news outlets, drew outrage from residents in the TCI who called on the government to put better systems in place to prevent similar incidents which could have adverse effects on the territory’s tourism sector.

The “Rate Your Ride” system is an innovative new way for tourists to have a voice in shaping the future of transportation services in the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to a statement

from the Department of Tourism Regulations on Monday, March 25, 2024.

The department said the “Rate Your Ride” system empowers tourists to provide valuable feedback on the quality of transportation services they receive while visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Through an easy-to-use online form, tourists can rate factors such as cleanliness, comfort, safety, and professionalism of drivers, helping us to assure the highest quality of service standards across all modes of transportation.

“Their feedback will enable us to identify areas for improvement and ensure that every visitor enjoys safe, comfortable, and convenient travel throughout their stay in the Turks and Caicos.

“The code will also be publicly accessible through the cooperation of volunteer drivers who will make the rating code available in their vehicles.

“Flyers and stickers displaying the code will be distributed at

hotels, resorts and airports.

“The mandated display of these codes is expected to align with the rollout of our tourism regulations in 2025.”

The Department of Tourism Regulations said it is committed to providing visitors with the best possible travel experience.

“The “Rate Your Ride” system is just one of the many initiatives that the department is taking to ensure that the Turks and Caicos Islands remain a premier destination for travellers from all over the world.

Guided by the Tourism Regulation and Licensing Ordinance 2023, passed in the House of Assembly in July 2023, the Department of Tourism Regulations (DTR) was established to implement mandatory tourism regulations and coordinate with other government offices on tourism policies and standards, inclusive of improvements in the tourismenabling environment.

The department seeks to ensure sustainable tourism on all fronts.

look forward to introducing Andaz Turks & Caicos and bringing an authentic, intimate atmosphere unlike any other in the world.” Situated on Grace Bay Beach, recently awarded as the Best Caribbean Beach by TripAdvisor, the resort has ambitious plans for local stewardship and community efforts, including an alliance with the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (501c3) for reef and wildlife preservation. Homeowners and resort guests will be invited to contribute to the diverse range of initiatives spearheaded by the TCI Reef Fund, including conservation efforts, educational programs,

community outreach, volunteering, and more. Further supporting the Bight Reef and overall ecosystem on the island, Andaz Turks & Caicos will refrain from using single-use plastics and will adopt reef-safe products, including sunscreen, in its operations. To kick off the partnership, the development hosted an exhibition and art auction in February featuring local artists, with all proceeds benefiting the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund.

In addition to the property’s philanthropic affiliation, Andaz

Left to right: Pool view, Reef Collection Residence (Courtesy of Andaz Turks & Caicos)

Davis Gardiner Jr appointed as executive ...

CONTINUED FROM  11

trajectory. Tasked with providing executive administrative support and strategic guidance, he is poised to make valuable contributions to the efficient operation of the ministry and the realization of its objectives.

Driven by a passion for organisational excellence and a desire to make a positive impact, Mr. Gardiner is committed to leveraging his education and skills to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of administrative processes within the ministry. His dedication to professional growth and his willingness to embrace new challenges position him as a valuable asset to the leadership team.

Reflecting on his appointment, Mr Gardiner Jr. expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve in his new capacity:

“I am eternally grateful to be given this opportunity to serve as the newly appointed Executive Administrator for the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services. I am elated to serve my country and be a part of the change, a change for good that is. I am forever thankful to the almighty for the great blessings he has placed upon my life to be where I am today.

I am grateful for my family and friends who pushed me to never give up and always prove the negativity wrong.

I believe that I will do well in this position by the grace of God.”

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams in extending congratulatory remarks to Mr Gardiner stated: “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Mr Davis Gardiner Jr on his appointment as Executive Administrator within the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services.

Mr Gardiner began his career with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government as the Administrative Officer with the Immigration Population Policy Council (IPPC). During his tenure, he showed an incredible work ethic that was eventually noticed by executives in TCIG.

We are happy to have him officially join the public service and wish him well in his new post.

Congratulations on your appointment, Mr Gardiner!”

Andaz Turks and Caicos surpasses $70m in ...

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Turks & Caicos has also appointed seasoned adventurer and Providenciales native, Mario Rigby, as Andaz Turks & Caicos Eco-Ambassador.

Rigby is a seasoned global explorer and eco-ambassador having traversed countless

countries and embarked on a remarkable two-year odyssey across Africa, forging connections with diverse communities and sharing their captivating stories with the world. With an unwavering commitment to diversity in outdoor exploration, Rigby will help design excursions for Andaz Turks & Caicos homeowners and guests, unveiling the island’s

hidden treasures. Rigby’s bespoke experiences will be crafted with sustainability at the apex, ensuring every journey is both enriching and environmentally conscious.

“I am thrilled to embark on this journey with Andaz Turks & Caicos, where I can blend my passion for exploration with sustainability and exploration while preserving the beauty of our

islands,” says Mario Rigby, Andaz Turks & Caicos Eco-Ambassador.

Stretching more than five and a half acres, Andaz Turks & Caicos is situated on the celebrated western end of Grace Bay Beach.

The thoughtfully designed resort will be home to exceptional dining including three restaurants and bars, and an elevated rooftop venue with unobstructed

panoramic views of the bay. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a garden yoga studio, tennis and pickleball courts, Kid’s Club, and a full-service indoor/outdoor spa. Andaz Turks & Caicos at Grace Bay will offer a full array of lifestyle amenities with luxury concierge services when it debuts in early 2026.

Enough with the fake outrage

In today’s fast-paced world, the battle lines of political affiliations are drawn more firmly than ever. A clarion call for sanity emerges – a reminder that some issues go beyond the political divide. It’s time to cool down the temperature on the fake outrage. We must realise that not every issue needs to be forced into political disagreement. This feeling doesn’t come from being uninformed. It comes from a deep understanding that our society is built on values and challenges that affect all of us, no matter which political side we support.

It’s no secret that our political discussions have become more divided and sensational. The constant flow of news and the fast spread of information (and wrong information) through social media have created a perfect environment for the politics of fake outrage. This situation strengthens emotions and hides the finer details. It’s not helpful to voters and hurts the foundation of our democratic society.

The truth is that many issues in our community are about something other than politics. The quality of our schools presents its own set of challenges. How well our security forces can handle illegal migration is another significant concern. Additionally, there is a need to protect our public health spans across multiple categories. They are common problems that need common solutions.

Yet, we find ourselves stuck in pointless arguments and made-up scandals. This constant chase for political points not only makes societal divides worse. It also takes away attention and resources from real problems that need quick action.

Think about the debate on improving public health services. This issue impacts every family, every community, and the future success of our nation. It shouldn’t be a fight over beliefs. It should be a cause that brings us together to aim for a better future for our children. In the same way, efforts to combat violent crime

BY AUDLEY ASTWOOD

should bring us together for action. They shouldn’t lead to useless fights over which political side is right.

The real sadness of this era of fake outrage is that it lessens trust in our institutions and among each other. It makes people cynical and less likely to take part in civic activities. This leaves us less able to deal with our society’s real challenges. It’s time for a change in how we approach things. We must move towards valuing real substance over show, unity over division.

This doesn’t mean we have to give up our principles or beliefs. It’s not just about our political differences. It’s about recognising that our commonalities and shared future hold more importance. It’s about creating a political environment where discussions are based on facts. They should aim to solve problems and include a willingness to listen and learn from one another.

Let’s decide to leave behind the fake outrage and the strategies that divide us too much. Instead, we must find common ground and work together on solutions that lift our whole community. The current government isn’t our problem. They’re a big part of the solution. Blaming them only helps those desperate to gain power without a plan for real change. We must, no matter our political sides, back our leaders on problems that should be non-partisan. By joining forces, we face our country’s challenges together. This strengthens our promise for a brighter, united future for Turks and Caicos.

Behavioural Dept condemns recording of persons in mental health crisis

The Department of Behavioural Health Services is appealing to members of the public to refrain from using their smart devices to record and disseminate recordings of persons who are in crisis.

Anyone can experience a mental health crisis at some point in their life. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people will experience a mental health problem in any given year.

Persons may struggle with common conditions such as anxiety and depression or be diagnosed with more serious conditions like bipolar disorder or psychosis.

In a statement this week, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, Dr. Alicia Malcolm made an appeal to the public to stop circulating videos of people who appear to be in crisis.

“There are a lot of misunderstandings about various mental health conditions and how they may manifest.

“In addition, there are a number of negative perceptions and misconceptions that society exhibits towards people with

mental health problems. However, just as we would show care and concern for someone diagnosed with cancer, or any other physical illness, in the same way, we need to be as caring and helpful to persons with mental illnesses.”

Instead of using their devices to share insensitive information, the public is urged to notify the department if they see someone who appears to be experiencing a mental health crisis.

Those numbers are 3385473/338-3616 for the office in Providenciales, North or Middle Caicos; 338-3614/338-3612 for Grand Turk, South Caicos, Salt Cay and 338-6301 for nights and weekends.

If someone is putting themselves or someone else in immediate, serious risk of harm, call 911.

The Department of Behavioral Health Services provides a number of services that are free and confidential.

They provide psychiatric services, namely: psychiatric evaluation, forensic consultation, medication management, supportive therapy, crisis consultation and emergency

intervention, inpatient treatment and home visitation/outreach.

They also offer counselling and psychological services for individual psychotherapy, family therapy, couples counselling, psychological evaluation, crisis intervention and psychoeducational programs and training.

They are also offering substance abuse services such as screening, assessment, psychotherapy, drug Testing, smoking cessation and Nicotine replacement Therapy outreach, alcoholics anonymous/ narcotics anonymous and adult residential treatment referral service.

All of these services can be accessed at the Sam Harvey Building in Downtown, Providenciales; the Primary Health Care Department at the Cheshire Hall Medical Center, Providenciales and the Department of Behavioural Health, Duncombe Alley, in Grand Turk.

“Let’s all do our part in creating a community where people with mental health problems feel respected, supported and cared for,” Dr Malcolm is urging all residents.

Your success depends on you, not on a political party

“You can lead a horse to the water, but you cannot make them drink it”

Everybody has a role to play, and politicians have a role to play. They set policies and they set budgets for capital expenditure and recurring expenditure. As many policies as politicians set, they are meaningless if you as the electorate do not do anything about them. That is why I labelled my tagline for this article “You can lead a horse to the water, but you cannot make them drink it”.

This is the political season, and some politicians and supporters will use psychology and emotion on you to convince you that your success depends on the political party in power. However, your success depends on you. There are so many successful people in this world, and they did not achieve their success because of politicians.

First, you must believe in yourself and believe that you have a purpose in this world. Once you have

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.

identified your purpose, research what it takes to achieve your purpose. Your purpose may involve some cash outlay. Prepare a business plan and borrow the funds to get what you want. If you do not want to borrow, then save your money towards achieving your success. In fact, you may discover you can start with the little cash in your hand.

You must be willing to take the risks. Some of you are not successful, because you are afraid.

You must overcome fear to succeed. You also must determine what success is to you. Success to me is about achieving your desired goals. There are people in this country who are not from here and who are not politically affiliated, and they are doing well. You too can do the same thing. There are many opportunities in this country for you. You can become successful. Your suffering will not come to an end because of a political

party in power. Your suffering will come to an end because you did something about it. You rose up and took your position.

Your success may depend on enrolling and completing college. Of course, the government provides scholarships and grants, but you must be the one to apply for it. Also, not everyone will get a scholarship or grant due to the limitations of the budget. You also must meet the requirements. You must be the one to study hard and succeed in college. Furthermore, I believe it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure they have funds for their children’s tertiary level of education.

Your success may depend on getting a job. You must be the one to work hard and do well on the job. You must be the one to apply for the job. In the public sector, the government provides jobs, but you

must apply for them and perform satisfactorily.

Your success may depend on becoming an entrepreneur. The government may provide grants for your business. However, you have to apply for it, and you have to start your business and make your business succeed. Nobody can start it for you. Promote your business, network with others, be reliable and offer exceptional customer service. Do not wait for your political party to get in power thinking things will turn around for you. Things will turn around for you if you make them turn around for yourself. Your success truly depends on you. With that being said, I encourage you to conduct yourself well on the job, in school, at home and in the public domain. People are watching you and your behaviour also help you to succeed. No one will want to work with you if you don’t behave well.

Why Ukraine and not Haiti? The visible contradiction of the definition of ‘human’

Why is one nation preferred over another? And why are some stateof-affairs treated with priority over others? While it is appalling, it is not surprising, and it is certainly worth exploring.

To find answers, we must delve into Haiti’s dilemmas and why the international community is investing billions of dollars to stop Russia in Ukraine over normalising the dire eco-political situation in Haiti.

We are aware of Haiti’s harrowing journey from colonialism to devastating natural disasters and domestic political corruption by the Duvaliers from 1957 to 1986, which destroyed the hope of a functioning state – have engendered widespread violence across the republic today.

Prior to Haiti’s demise, St Domingue – as known during its colonial era – was the most profitable colony in the Americas, known for its fast-growing sugar and coffee industries.

BY D MARKIE SPRING

And although France and the US were big players in Haiti’s disintegration, they’re now refusing to help the struggling Haitian people.

It is clear, in his recent State of the Union address, President Joe Biden confirmed that the US is backing Ukraine because of America’s own national security interests.

Later, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed a similar sentiment in his historic address to the US Congress. He expressed, the US support for Ukraine “is not charity, its investment in global security and

democracy.”

Since then, the Kiel Institute for the World Economy reports that the Biden administration and the US Congress approved about $75 billion in humanitarian, financial and military aid to Ukraine. Still, another $60 billion in military support is held up in Congress!

Similarly, the Permanent Mission of France to the UN submits that France is supporting the war so that Ukraine can exercise its right to self-defense – conforming to Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Between February 2022 and December 2023, France’s Minister

Des Armees stated that France delivered military equipment to Ukraine worth approximately €3.8 billion.

So, I ask why can’t these affluent countries fix Haiti‘s plights in the same way they’re supporting Ukraine to neutralize the Russian invaders?

While all nations should support Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty, the global society should also coerce France and the US, especially, to strike a balance in their approach to world issues, impelling them to assist Haiti’s stabilising efforts.

At the political level, they can facilitate the organization of Haiti’s free and fair elections, restore the country’s institutions, and help foster its security and safety.

France can render Haiti’s reparation payments to rebuild infrastructures to facilitate transportation, clean water and energy, food security and promote cross-border trade. This could help Haiti in finding its financial footing.

Let’s applaud CARICOM, though having limited resources, played a pivotal role in “Operation Uphold Democracy” – removing Junta Raoul Cedras’ regime following the 1991 Haitian coup d’etat, which ousted democratically elected President Jean Bertrand Aristide.

At this juncture, the TCI should consider its geographical location and history with Haitians and knowing that its national security is increasingly at risk, lawmakers should be keen to work with regional players to help normalize Haiti.

Moreover, the TCI is home to a sizeable Haitian Diaspora; therefore, it is appropriate for policymakers to engage them to help meet the needs of their homeland.

Meanwhile, America is welcoming and embracing Ukrainians, while deporting Haitians. So, I ask, where is ‘humanity’ in all of this? And why Ukraine and not Haiti?

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.

Embracing hope

As we get ready to celebrate this season, let us remember its significance. While it has become many things to many people, at its core, this season is when we remember the crucifixion death of Jesus and his subsequent resurrection. This good news for mankind reminds us that through Jesus, life defeats death, hope triumphs over despair, and love is stronger than hate. In essence, mankind’s brokenness turns to wholeness, and the shed blood of Jesus Christ erases the animosity that exists between man and God. Because the resurrection happened, we can be sure that death is not the final word; there is a path to forgiveness, salvation, and eternal union with God.

Let us extend the significance of this event beyond a few days of celebration by living out its truth and embodying the power of Jesus in our lives. Here are several ways we can do that.

Embrace Hope: No matter how

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

dire our circumstances may seem, there is always hope in Christ. Cultivate a spirit of hopefulness, trusting in God’s faithfulness and providence even amidst life’s challenges. Draw strength from the resurrection narrative, knowing that God is able to bring beauty from ashes and light from darkness.

Extend Grace: Just as Christ extends grace and forgiveness to all who believe in Him, extend grace to others. Embody the spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation, extending mercy and compassion to those who have wronged you. Let forgiveness flow freely from

your hearts, fostering healing and reconciliation in your relationships and communities.

Live in Love: The essence of love is the selfless, sacrificial

love of Jesus Christ on the cross. Emulate His love by selflessly serving others and showing kindness and compassion to those in need. Make your life a reflection

of Christ’s love, through genuine care and compassion. And lastly.

Walk in Victory: This season celebrates the victory of Christ over sin and death, empowering believers to walk in victory each day. Live as conquerors, overcoming trials and temptations through the power of Christ’s resurrection by the power of the Holy Spirit. With hearts full of gratitude, boldly proclaim the victory of Christ, sharing the hope and joy of this time with all you encounter.

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

Loose lips sink ships

‘Loose lips sink ships’ comes from World War I and/or WWII, when sailors on leave from their ships might talk about what ship they sailed on or where it had come from, or where it was going. If they talked too much (had ‘loose lips’) they might accidentally provide the enemy with anecdotal information that might later cause their ship to be tracked, and bombed and sunk, hence ‘Loose lips sink ships.’ Later, it came to mean any excessive talk might sabotage a project.

Revealing certain things too early in a relationship or interaction can sometimes be detrimental. Here are eight things you ought to keep to yourself if no one asks.

DEEPLY PERSONAL TRAUMAS:

Sharing deep emotional traumas or painful experiences too early can overwhelm the other person and create an imbalance in the

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

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

relationship. It’s important to build trust gradually before delving into such sensitive topics.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

Revealing extensive financial details too early can give the wrong impression or even attract opportunists. It’s prudent to wait until there’s a solid foundation of trust before discussing finances in depth.

INTENSE POLITICAL OR RELIGIOUS BELIEFS:

While it’s important to be authentic, discussing polarizing

topics like politics or religion too early can lead to conflicts or misunderstandings. These conversations are better reserved for when both parties know each other’s perspectives better.

PAST RELATIONSHIP BAGGAGE:

Sharing too much about past relationships too soon might signal unresolved emotional issues or give the impression that you’re not fully present in the current relationship. It’s healthier to focus on building a new connection rather than dwelling

on the past initially.

HEALTH ISSUES:

Disclosing serious health issues too early can be overwhelming for the other person and might affect how they perceive you. While honesty is important, it’s wise to wait until there’s a deeper level of trust and understanding in the relationship.

CAREER ASPIRATIONS:

Sharing overly ambitious career goals or aspirations too early might come across as intimidating or unrealistic. It’s better to demonstrate your work ethic and determination gradually rather than overwhelming others with grand plans at the outset.

FAMILY DRAMA:

Every family has its complexities, but revealing too much family drama too early can create unnecessary tension or discomfort. It’s better to focus on

getting to know each other before delving into familial intricacies.

EXTREME VULNERABILITIES:

While vulnerability can deepen connections, revealing extreme vulnerabilities too early can make the other person feel burdened or uncomfortable. It’s important to gauge the level of trust and intimacy in the relationship before sharing deeply personal vulnerabilities.

In essence, while honesty and authenticity are crucial in any relationship, there’s also a balance to strike in terms of what and when to reveal certain aspects of yourself. Building trust gradually and respecting each other’s boundaries are key components of healthy communication and connection. This is a learning curve, for most of us indeed.

Share if you care.

Your insights are welcome. @daviid.l2

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.

Mysteries Unveiled: A tapestry of intrigue and adventure

The unpredictability of audience reception can be both a surprise and a mystery. Often, pieces that I pour my heart into receive a warm reception but don’t always make the impact I anticipate. On the flip side, columns crafted with a lighter touch and under tighter deadlines unexpectedly capture the audience’s imagination, scoring big. Take, for example, my last piece, “The Priest, the Thief, and 40 Minutes of Literary Bliss.” This column not only garnered an unprecedented amount of feedback through emails and texts but also achieved record-breaking readership numbers, as confirmed by a data analyst (affectionately dubbed a “geek”). He assures me this isn’t a fluke, though I suspect it’s more about the charm of my hasty musings than any literary genius. The intricacies of audience engagement, it seems, are as complex as they are fascinating.

I’m immensely grateful for all the feedback from my readers, though it’s impossible to thank everyone individually. Instead, let three significant responses represent the chorus of support, alongside a big thank you to everyone else. Ed Forbes, a fellow columnist, remarked, “Good morning my friend! Quite a story. I’m glad you found a way to entertain yourself while waiting. Where is the credit union that was proposed years ago? The

BY TITUS DE BOER

Titus de Boer was born in Hamburg and spent his formative years in the West Indies. He moved to the TCI in 1989 and founded the country’s first professional art gallery in 1990. These days he manages an art gallery, TDB Fine Arts, located in the Turks and Caicos National Museum on Grand Turk. (www.facebook.com/tdbfinearts). Readers wishing to contact Titus, can to so on tdbtci@aol.com.

things that make logic sense never come to fruition in GT…” Another reader from the TCI commented, “I didn’t see that coming, a perfectly justified criticism of the bank turned into a book review - I like that!” And from Salt Cay, a neighbour, let’s name him John, shared, “You outdid yourself on the bank portion of the article. That was some funny s**t. Actually read it twice.”

A large number of readers, especially younger ones, asked whether I could recommend a few more books, with quite a few expressing a newly found joy of reading; how could I possibly say no to that. So here we go - by popular demand. Having just finished a hugely entertaining read, “A Shrine of Murders” by Paul Doherty, I’ll focus today on three books, all set in medieval times, two of which are detective/mystery stories and one, Pillars of the Earth, being the quintessential medieval “tour de force”.

Starting with Ken Follett’s “Pillars of the Earth,” the opening salvo of the “Kingsbridge Novels,” I must confess it stands as my favourite of the series. For those hesitant about diving into trilogies or series, fear not—this gem shines bright on its own, no commitment to sequels required. Surprisingly, “Pillars of the Earth” transcends its seemingly mundane premise—a man’s fervent quest to build a cathedral in the Middle Ages—morphing into an enthralling saga. It masterfully intertwines plot twists, richly drawn characters, political machinations, passionate love, deep-seated betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of power into a narrative tapestry that captivates from the first page. Despite its daunting length of 1,104 pages, I found myself breezing through it, a testament to its gripping narrative. However, a gentle warning: its vivid portrayal of medieval life, complete

with graphic descriptions, might not be for everyone. Yet, for those who venture within its pages, it promises a full-bodied, unforgettable journey through time.

My next recommendation is Umberto Eco’s ‘The Name of the Rose.’ Spanning 514 pages, this novel offers a gripping detective mystery with a compelling narrative and a diverse cast of meticulously crafted characters. While not the simplest read, Eco’s prose remains clear and uncluttered, ensuring an engaging experience regardless of its complexity. What makes “The Name of the Rose” truly exceptional is its dual nature: it can be enjoyed purely for its entertainment value or appreciated as a meticulously researched chronicle of medieval history. As a work of detective fiction, it excels, delivering a welldefined list of suspects, a trail of clues, and plenty of twists and suspense. However, delving into

the intricacies of medieval life, including the complex relationships between religious factions, the Holy Roman Emperor, and the Papacy, can sometimes feel overwhelming. Nevertheless, Eco’s thorough research enriches the narrative, offering readers a deeper understanding of the era.

The final gem on my reading list is the captivating ‘A Shrine of Murders’ by Paul Doherty, serving as the inaugural instalment of the ‘Kathryn Swinbrooke Mysteries’ series. Despite its brevity at 187 pages, it delivers a compelling narrative set in Canterbury during the Wars of the Roses. Introducing Kathryn Swinbrooke, a skilled physician with a mysterious past, alongside her loyal maidservant Thomasina and Irish soldier Colum Murtagh, the story unfolds seamlessly, blending brisk pacing with meticulous historical research.

Doherty’s attention to detail immerses readers in medieval England, where political intrigue and religious fervour abound. Through Kathryn’s sharp insights, readers navigate a world of deception and betrayal, all while gaining valuable insights into the complexities of the era. ‘A Shrine of Murders’ offers a captivating blend of mystery and history, sure to engage both mystery enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Name of the Rose may not be the easiest read, but the prose is clear and regardless of its complexity, it is very entertaining.

A Shrine of Murders is a very enjoyable read which flows rapidly and easily, while also being well-researched and well-written.

The Pillars of the Earth is one of the most entertaining books I have ever read, which surprised me as the plota guy really wants to build a cathedral in the Middle Ages - doesn’t at strike one as a page turner, yet that’s exactly what it is.

Regional News

Three American men arrested for credit card fraud on visit to Cayman

The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service confirmed that on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, officers arrested three men, 32, 32, and 33, who are visitors to Cayman, on suspicion of obtaining property by deception. The RCIPS explained that the arrests occurred after the men purchased several items with card information from multiple

cards, which appears to have been fraudulently obtained.

Police also searched the premises where the men were located and seized several items, including phones, computer equipment, perfumes, and expensive jewellery, which are suspected to have been obtained by the same method.

Police are investigating multiple

instances of credit card fraud, where persons have made purchases using fraudulently obtained credit card details without the knowledge or consent of the cardholders.

Police said that, at times, these purchases have been made over the phone or online; however, they have recently seen a number of instances where the culprits

have made purchases in person without providing a physical card or identification. Businesses that have conducted transactions with manually entered card details since 16 March, particularly involving a group of three American men, two of whom are of dark complexion and one of light complexion, are asked

to review these transactions and contact the RCIPS Financial Crime Investigation Unit at RCIPS. FCU@rcips.ky if they have any suspicions.

The RCIPS is taking this opportunity to advise the public and businesses of the steps they can take to help avoid becoming victims of this type of fraud.

Regional News

AccuWeather forecasts 20-25 named storms for 2024 Hurricane Season

US forecaster AccuWeather expects this year’s Atlantic Hurricane Season to be well above average with 20 to 25 named storms.

Of those named storms, four to seven could become major hurricanes during the Atlantic Season which runs from June 1 to November 30.

AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Forecaster Alex DaSilva said the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to feature well above the historical average number of tropical storms, hurricanes, major

hurricanes and direct US impacts.

One of the driving factors for what is predicted to be an ‘explosive’ Atlantic Hurricane Season is the presence of warm water with sea surface temperatures well above the historical average across most of the Atlantic basin.

Another major factor is tied to the Pacific Ocean where water near the equator of the eastern Pacific is in the process of quickly changing from El Niño to La Niña.

AccuWeather forecaster Alex DaSilva said the faster the transition to La Niña occurs, the

more active the hurricane season is likely to be.

In 2024, DaSilva said all residents and interests along the US coast, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, should have a hurricane plan in place and always be fully prepared for a direct impact.

The AccuWeather Hurricane forecaster added that there is a 10 to 15 per cent chance of 30 or more named storms this year with the possibility meteorologists can run out of names to use for tropical storms and hurricanes. (Loop News)

Bahamian man charged in US on three human smuggling incidents

A 33-year-old Bahamian man was arrested and charged in the United States yesterday in connection with three maritime human smuggling incidents — including one that resulted in five deaths.

Vandrick Nelson Smith, also known as “Muggy” and “Vans”, was indicted in the Southern District of Florida for his alleged role in a human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in multiple migrant deaths.

He was arrested on March 6 in The Bahamas after a request by the United States involving charges filed under seal in the Southern District of Florida in November last year.

He was accused of being involved in a human smuggling organisation that illegally tried to transport migrants by boat from The Bahamas into the United States on or about March 6, 2021, January 22, 2022, and August 8, 2022.

The migrants were nationals of Colombia, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti, among other countries, and they reportedly paid an unknown amount.

“Vandrick Smith has been charged with organising dangerous human smuggling operations, sending migrants from The Bahamas to Florida by boat,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division in the United States.

“As alleged in the indictment,

the human smuggling organisation’s efforts turned deadly when a boat carrying migrants capsized in January 2022. Human smugglers exploit desperate people for money, and the consequences can be tragic. The criminal division is committed to combating human smuggling organisations that prey on and endanger vulnerable migrants, wherever they operate.”

On the evening of January 22 2022, shortly after the vessel’s departure from The Bahamas, the engines allegedly stopped functioning, and the vessel capsized. Two days later, the U.S. Coast Guard rescued the sole surviving migrant, who was found clinging to the top of the overturned vessel according to reroute.

Smith is charged with five counts of attempting to bring non-citizens to the United States, resulting in death; conspiring to bring noncitizens to the United States for profit, placing in jeopardy the life of non-citizens and resulting in death; attempting to bring noncitizens to the United States for profit; and attempting to aid and assist certain non-citizens to enter the United States.

If convicted, Smith faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Trial attorney Marie Zisa of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and assistant US attorney Justin Hoover for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. (Tribune242)

‘Wellbeing of The Bahamas’ outweighs Amnesty International’s request

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe rebuffed Amnesty International’s call for countries to suspend repatriations to Haiti and revealed that two Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessels departed for Haiti with 263 Haitian nationals on Tuesday.

Amnesty International said conditions in Haiti are putting the lives and safety of Haitian nationals at risk and that immediate humanitarian assistance is needed to alleviate those affected.

The human rights organisation said more than 35,000 people have been displaced since the beginning of 2024.

During a recent Office of the Prime Minister’s press briefing, Mr Munroe noted The Bahamas declined to sign the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, which concerned efforts to create regular migration

throughout the Americas.

“The prime minister is focused on the wellbeing of The Bahamas and the wellbeing of The Bahamas does not permit us to accede to Amnesty International’s request,” Mr Munroe said.

“It didn’t permit him to sign the declaration of Los Angeles as the United States of America sought to impress on us to do. I am confident that this Prime Minister will never let down the people of The Bahamas and act against our interests.

“The honourable prime minister has indicated in many statements that he has refused to sign the Declaration of Los Angeles, which would have imposed on us an ability to house migrants as our country is heavily tasked with what we have to accomplish now and are not capable of taking on that extra burden.”

Mr Munroe said 216 men, 44 women and three children were repatriated on Tuesday morning.

“The Ministry of National Security, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the Bahamas Department of Immigration together with the Ministry of Education arranged for the repatriation of the 107 migrants that were intercepted by the HMBS Kamalame over the weekend and a number of migrants who were then at the Detention Centre in New Providence,” Mr

Munroe said. “A total of 156 migrants in all were flown down to Inagua, Great Inagua.

“The HMBS Lawrence Major was set to depart Matthew Town, Inagua, at 1800/6pm and did. She was escorted by HMBS Kamalame to the port of Cap-Haitien and the northern coast of the Republic of Haiti. The forecast arrival time, which was roughly met, was 8am this morning (yesterday).”

The recent escape of more than 4,000 prisoners in Haiti has intensified efforts to secure the country’s border.

Prime Minister Davis recently said the RBDF is deploying significant assets, including surface vessels, aircraft and 120 RBDF personnel, to combat illegal immigration amid Haiti’s deepening crisis and a surge in attempts by undocumented migrants to enter Bahamian waters.

AccuWeather’s

Wayne Munroe noted The Bahamas declined to sign the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection

Regional News

Haiti: US guns pour into Port-auPrince, fuelling surge in violence

More than two weeks after the country’s prime minister resigned, following a surge of violence in Port-au-Prince, details of a presidential transitional council have still not been revealed.

One of the challenges this council will have to face is the illegal trafficking of guns, which has powered the gangs which have taken over.

The escalation in violence has sparked an exodus from the capital.

Among those leaving is 14-yearold David Charles whose father Israel is nervous with excitement as he waits for his son’s bus to arrive in Cap-Haitien.

A coach with boarded-up windows pulls up to the side of the road. He smiles in anticipation. His 14-year-old son David soon walks down the stairs with his luggage. They embrace tightly.

David has managed to escape Port-au-Prince - a city now torn apart by armed gangs and political chaos. Most of the violence gripping Haiti is centred in the capital: the UN estimates 80% of it is now controlled by gangs.

He had been living there for two years without his parents, in order to finish his education, but Israel did not want him “to become a victim”.

This month’s torrent of violence spurred him to get his son out to Cap-Haitien, a city in the north of the country which is safer.

“The journey was very long, more than six hours. I was praying

the whole way,” says David. “The bus driver later told us there were a lot of gunshots in one area, our bus just missed them.”

Other passengers on the bus look exhausted, relieved but also upset. One man in a dark T-shirt and sunglasses speaks quietly as we ask him how he is. But becomes visibly angry as he tells us he has a message for the United States.

“All the guns here are from the US, everybody knows it. If the US wants to stop this, they could easily do it one month!” He pleads: “We are asking the US to give us a chance to live, just give us a chance.”

For a country that does not manufacture weapons, a UN report in January found every type of gun was flooding Port-au-Prince: high-powered rifles such as AK47s, 9mm pistols, sniper rifles and machine guns.

The weapons are fuelling the staggering surge in Haiti’s gangrelated violence.

There is no exact number for how many trafficked firearms are currently in Haiti.

The UN report said some estimates put it at half a million legal and illegal weapons here as of 2020.

It reported that guns and ammunition were being smuggled in from land, air and sea from US states such as Florida, Texas and Georgia.

Gangs now control 80% of Port-au-Prince, according to UN estimates

Prince, Port-de-Paix and in CapHaitien. Illegal weapons are hidden in shipping containers among toy and clothes donations.

In July 2022, Haitian authorities seized a huge haul of dozens of weapons with 15,000 rounds of ammunition. They were stuffed in a shipment from Florida heading to an Episcopal church in Haiti.

The UN also identified the use of several clandestine airstrips built for humanitarian purposes after the devastating earthquake in 2010, which are now hardly monitored.

Earlier this month, a UN spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, told journalists the UN SecretaryGeneral’s message to gangs in Haiti was to “silence the guns”.

In the corner of his office, Cap-Haitien’s chief prosecutor, Charles-Edward Durant, keeps a semi-automatic weapon.

have a better country.”

Is he worried that with guns being so prolific, the violence could make its way into Cap-Haitien?

At this, he smiles with more confidence: “We are resisting, we have our ways: informants, checkpoints. Are they afraid of us? Of course. We are not playing. Anything can happen. If a gangster comes, he’s not here to play, and so we aren’t playing with them either.”

The US says it will throw its weight at the problem of guns and gangs, too.

Last year, the State Department indicated it had plans to help establish a new policing unit in Haiti to address weapons being trafficked into the country.

One of them is Juliette Dorson. The 50-year-old fled Port-auPrince after surviving a shooting. The party planner still bears the scars from the bullets which hit her when she was ambushed at an event she was catering for.

“I said run, run, run because they are shooting. At that moment, I was shot twice: once in my feet and the other in the arm.”

Ten people were killed, including her 22-year-old business partner, Luc.

She sobs as she speaks about him. The memory of it all is too traumatic to talk about at length.

Juliette shows us the small space she currently lives in, sharing a bed with a friend.

It is a world away from the home she once owned in the capital. The gangs have claimed that. She cannot return.

He says he needs security whenever he travels. For him, things have never been so bad in Haiti. “This is a nightmare, a horrible dream. I would like Haitians to wake up and work to

Barbara Feinstein, the deputy assistant secretary of state for Caribbean Affairs and Haiti, said at the time it was only “one piece of the equation”.

However, with no head of state, and effectively no government, Haiti’s people are trapped in yet another vicious circle of violence powered by illegal guns.

“When the gangs and the violence started in Port-au-Prince, the government didn’t do anything to stop it. And they let this grow and grow. It’s now too complicated to stop.” (BBC)

UWI professor tells UN to decolonise Caribbean territories

places in the world where there are still colonies and said decolonisation is a part of the reparatory justice that Europe owes the descendants of those who were victimized by the transatlantic slave trade.

There have been seizures in the country’s main ports in Port-auRespected University of the West Indies (UWI) Professor Sir Hilary Beckles has called on the United Nations (UN) to recommit to the decolonization agenda for the remaining Caribbean countries that are controlled by European countries.

Professor Beckles made the call on March 25, when he was the keynote speaker at the UN’s commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Beckles told the UN that the Caribbean remains one of the few

“Many of the islands of the Caribbean are still colonies. Britain has colonies, France has colonies, and the Dutch have colonies. Why do we have colonies remaining at this time in our history? I urge the United Nations therefore, as part of its reparatory justice programme, to recommit to the agenda of decolonization so that this crime against humanity which

began in the Caribbean can finally come to an end with the ending of colonization,” the Professor said. His call comes amid the BVI’s own ongoing call for a fairer relationship with the United Kingdom, one which excludes threats to take power away from elected leaders.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley recently announced that the United Nations (UN) Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24) is getting ready to visit the BVI for an assessment of the territory’s readiness for further self-determination. (BVInews)

Professor Beckles made the call at the UN’s commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

King Charles calls for acts of friendship in first public remarks since Kate’s cancer diagnosis

King Charles III gave public remarks for Maundy Thursday, addressing the importance of acts of friendship, following his and Catherine, Princess of Wales’ cancer diagnoses.

The King’s audio message — which was played at the annual Royal Maundy service at Worcester Cathedral in England on Thursday — were his first public comments since Catherine revealed she was undergoing chemotherapy. The princess’ announcement put an end to months of speculation over her health.

Charles, who is also currently undergoing treatment for cancer, did not attend the service, leaving his wife, Queen Camilla, to hand out traditional Maundy gifts on his behalf.

Queen Camilla’s presence

comes as Charles steps back from public-facing duties while he receives outpatient treatment.

The King is, however, expected to attend church on Easter Sunday alongside his wife, marking his most significant public appearance since his diagnosis.

Maundy Thursday — also known as Holy Thursday — is a Christian event that takes place each year on the Thursday before Easter. It is an ancient ceremony that dates back to 600 A.D. and marks how Jesus washed the feet of disciples at the Last Supper.

Charles’ recording for the service opened with a reading of “The First Lesson” from the Gospel of John before he expressed his “great sadness” that he wasn’t able to join the congregation, saying the service “has a very special place in

King Charles and the Princess of Wales were both diagnosed with cancer

my heart.”

“It has its origin in the life of Our Lord who knelt before his disciples and, to their great surprise, washed their travel-weary feet. And, as we have just heard, in doing so he deliberately gave to them and to us all an example of how we should serve and care for each other,” the King said in his personal message.

“In this country we are blessed by all the different services that exist for our welfare. But over and above these organizations and their selfless staff, we need and benefit greatly from those who extend the

hand of friendship to us, especially in a time of need.”

The British monarch used his message ahead of the Easter weekend to reiterate his coronation pledge “not to be served but to serve” with “my whole heart.”

In the past, the monarch washed the feet of those in need. But in modern times, the sovereign gives out specially-minted coins to people in recognition of their service to the church and local community.

Queen Camilla will distribute the Maundy money in two purses

— one red and one white — at Worcester Cathedral to 75 men and 75 women, in a nod to the King’s age.

The King said in his message that the 150 men and women who would receive the Maundy Money “are wonderful examples of such kindness; of going way beyond the call of duty and of giving so much of their lives to the service of others in their communities.”

Charles’ message was recorded in mid-March, according to PA Media, and did not directly refer to his or Kate’s health. (BBC)

Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years for multi-billion dollar FTX fraud

Sam Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison by a judge on Thursday for stealing $8bn from customers of the now-bankrupt FTX cryptocurrency exchange he founded, the last step in the former billionaire wunderkind’s dramatic downfall.

US District Judge Lewis Kaplan handed down the sentence at a Manhattan court hearing after rejecting Bankman-Fried’s claim that FTX customers did not actually lose money and finding that he lied during his trial testimony. A jury found Bankman-Fried, 32, guilty on Nov. 2 on seven fraud and conspiracy counts stemming from FTX’s 2022 collapse in what prosecutors have called one of the biggest financial frauds in U.S. history.

Kaplan said Bankman-Fried has shown no remorse.

“He knew it was wrong,” Kaplan said. “He knew it was criminal. He regrets that he made a very bad bet about the likelihood of getting caught. But he is not going to admit a thing, as is his right.”

Bankman-Fried, wearing a beige short-sleeve jail T-shirt, acknowledged during 20 minutes of remarks to the judge that FTX customers had suffered and he offered an apology to his former FTX colleagues - but did not admit

Sam Bankman-Fried is accused of stealing $8bn from customers of the now-bankrupt FTX cryptocurrency

criminal wrongdoing.

He has vowed to appeal his conviction and sentence.

Bankman-Fried stood with his hands clasped before him as Kaplan read the sentence. He then spoke with his defense lawyer Marc Mukasey briefly before being led out of the courtroom by members of the U.S. Marshals Service.

The sentence marked the culmination of Bankman-Fried’s plunge from an ultra-wealthy entrepreneur and major political donor to the biggest trophy to date in a crackdown by U.S. authorities on malfeasance in cryptocurrency markets.

“There are serious consequences for defrauding customers and investors,” U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. “Anyone who believes they can hide their financial crimes behind wealth and power, or behind a shiny new thing they claim no one else is smart enough to understand, should think twice.”

Kaplan found that FTX customers lost $8 billion, FTX’s equity investors lost $1.7 billion, and that lenders to the Alameda Research hedge fund BankmanFried founded lost $1.3 billion. He imposed an $11 billion forfeiture order and authorised the

government to repay victims with seized assets.

Federal prosecutors had sought a sentence of 40 to 50 years. Mukasey had argued for a sentence of less than 5-1/4 years.

‘I’M SORRY FOR THAT’

Addressing the judge, BankmanFried said, “Customers have been suffering ... I didn’t at all mean to minimize that. I also think that’s something that was missing from what I’ve said over the course of this process, and I’m sorry for that.”

Referring to his FTX colleagues, Bankman-Fried added, “They put a lot of themselves into it, and I threw that all away. It haunts me every day.”

Three former close associates testified as prosecution witnesses that Bankman-Fried had directed them to use FTX customer funds to plug losses at Alameda Research. All three have pleaded guilty to fraud.

Kaplan said Bankman-Fried lied when testified that he did not know Alameda Research had spent customer deposits taken from FTX.

Mukasey sought to distance Bankman-Fried from notorious fraudsters like Bernie Madoff, saying he was “not a ruthless financial serial killer” but rather an

“awkward math nerd” who tried to get customers their money back after FTX’s collapse.

“Sam Bankman-Fried doesn’t make decisions with malice in his heart,” Mukasey added. “He makes decisions with math in his head.”

Bankman-Fried’s eyes turned red as he appeared to hold back tears while Mukasey spoke.

His parents, Stanford University law professors Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried, attended the sentencing. Bankman held a green umbrella as they exited the courthouse into a rainy New York afternoon, their arms around each other.

“We are heartbroken and will continue to fight for our son,” they said in a statement.

‘POWER AND INFLUENCE’

A Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate, BankmanFried rode a boom in the values of bitcoin and other digital assets to a net worth of $26 billion, according to Forbes magazine, before he turned 30.

Bankman-Fried became known for his mop of unkempt curly hair and commitment to a movement called effective altruism, which encourages talented young people to focus on earning money and giving it away to worthy causes.

World News

Obama jumps in to help Biden defeat Trump again

Barack Obama spent several hours last Friday in the family dining room of the White House, visiting his former vice president, Joe Biden. The mood was cheerful as the pair exchanged jokes, and the meeting served as a small reunion of sorts for the two presidents’ respective staff – many of whom have known each other going back to the Obama White House.

Still, the occasion was hardly just two old friends catching up.

Obama has made clear to associates in recent months that he believes Biden’s intensifying re-match with Donald Trump in November will be incredibly close, and that the 2024 election marks an “all-hands-on-deck” moment, people familiar with his thinking told CNN. To that end, his return to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue last week was largely a working visit.

Biden and Obama, along with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, participated in an organizing call in the White House residence heralding the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act. “We have the chance to do even more, but that only happens if we send Joe and Kamala back to the White House in November,” Obama said in the video. “So, we’ve got to keep working.”

Off camera, Obama told Biden that he thought the president’s State of the Union remarks earlier this month had been effective and were breaking through, according to people familiar with their conversation. Obama also emphasised to Biden how much he believes health care will be a politically potent and important issue in the upcoming election.

The campaign also recorded other content featuring the two presidents, sources said, that they plan to roll out in the coming

weeks.

Obama and Biden speak with regularity, sources said, and the former president remains in direct contact with some top White House officials, including Biden’s chief of staff, Jeff Zients, who worked in the Obama administration.

The former president has lent an occasional hand to Biden since the current president’s reelection announcement last year, particularly through public fundraising appeals and in quiet conversations in hopes of allaying concern from some Democrats about Biden seeking a second term. His engagement with the Biden campaign is expected to intensify as the general election kicks into higher gear, and aides said he has already agreed to several campaign appearances before November as he works to help rebuild Biden’s winning coalition from 2020.

Obama’s biggest embrace of Biden’s reelection effort comes Thursday at a star-studded Manhattan fundraiser featuring Biden, Obama and former President

Bill Clinton. The three presidents will sit for a rare conversation, moderated by Stephen Colbert.

It will hardly be a routine meeting of the Presidents Club, and when Clinton and Obama take the stage at Radio City Music Hall, their appearance will underscore the extraordinary moment in American history as a sitting president is locked in a bitter fight to keep his predecessor from returning to the White House.

“No one can speak to disillusioned Democrats better than President Obama,” a senior strategist who has worked closely with Obama and Biden told CNN, speaking on condition of anonymity to be candid about the campaign. “But there are limits to what Obama can do. The burden to win this race is still on President Biden.”

Attending the sold-out, highdollar event Thursday night will be numerous celebrities and artists like Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Cynthia Erivo, Mindy Kaling, Ben Platt and Lea Michele, according to the

campaign. The evening will be overseen by high-profile producers Jordan Roth and Alex Timbers, and tickets will range from $225 to $500,000.

Capitalizing the rare joint appearance of Biden and two of his predecessors, the campaign is offering some of the high-dollar guests the opportunity to get their photographs taken with all three presidents by famed photographer Annie Leibovitz.

?As president, Biden has also been in frequent touch with Clinton, sources familiar say. Steve Ricchetti, a top Biden adviser who also worked in the Clinton White House, is also in regular touch with his former boss. Advice and consultation related to the 2024 election have been a part of all of those conversations, those people said.

Obama’s appeal and popularity as one of the best-known national Democrats has been undeniable. The campaign’s grassroots fundraising efforts featuring the former president have raised over $15 million so far this cycle, with a “Meet the Presidents” contest featuring Biden and Obama alone hauling in some $3 million, according to the campaign.

For the next seven months, a specific area of focus for Obama will be making fundraising appeals and helping to motivate young Americans, particularly Black and Latino voters, who are seen by campaign advisers as a weak spot for Biden’s candidacy.

Obama has no plans to hit the stump aggressively until the fall, when early voting begins, following a pattern he has adopted since leaving office. Saving the former president until the end of the race – at the time when voters are paying the most attention – is how

Obama and his advisers believe he can be the most effective.

No firm travel plans have yet been made, aides said, but the former president is likely to visit college campuses in the fall as well as major cities in battleground states.

Obama has not been shy in voicing his concern about Israel’s war in Gaza, which has become one of Biden’s biggest challenges – both in foreign policy and in domestic politics. That, along with reproductive rights, will be the chief focus of Obama’s pitch to voters.

Jim Messina, Obama’s 2012 campaign manager who has been serving as a close adviser to the Biden reelection campaign, told CNN that his former boss plans to do whatever he can to help Biden secure a second term at the White House. That mission, Messina said, has only been made significantly more urgent by Trump’s emergence as the presumptive Republican nominee.

“President Obama once said to me that every president is a reflection of the previous president, and he’s right,” Messina said. “Trump was the complete opposite of Obama, and Biden is the complete opposite of Trump. Being the president of the United States means you’re part of a small club; there is no other group of people whose red flags about the direct threat of Donald Trump should be taken more seriously.”

Obama has been unambiguous about his willingness to be of service to his former vice president’s reelection efforts, one senior Biden adviser told CNN.

“He has been generous with his time, and he has made it very clear that he is all in on this campaign,” the adviser said. (CNN)

A lottery player in New Jersey hit the literal jackpot on Tuesday, becoming the owner of a winning Mega Millions lottery ticket worth $1.1bn (£791m).

The new billionaire had to match the six winning numbers, which were seven, 11, 22, 29, 38plus the “Mega Ball” four.

Doing so defied astronomical odds. There is a one in over 302 million shot at winning the Mega Millions jackpot.

It was the fifth-largest jackpot in the history of the game.

The billion-dollar prize is just

an estimate, the lottery said on Wednesday, until all sales of Mega Millions tickets are finalised.

The jackpot winner will have the choice of receiving annual payments splitting the full jackpot amount or electing for a one-time lump-sum payment of $537.5m.

In Tuesday’s lottery drawing, thirteen ticket holders — in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New York and Ohio — matched the first five winning numbers and won at least $1m.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden have a political history

DIAMOND CONSULTING

DRYWALL FINISHER

CONTACT: 247-4924

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 247-4924

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 246-8103

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

KVANAR LTD is seeking a PROCUREMENT / PURCHASING OFFICER FOR

IMMEDIATE EMPLOYMENT

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE NEEDED:

• Hold a minimum of 5 years’ experience in the purchasing of construction materials ranging from rough/first fix materials to finish/final fix items.

• Have a concise understanding of all construction materials including, but not limited to, lumber & masonry products, windows, doors, hardware, appliances, cabinetry, electrical & plumbing materials, tiles, drywall, paint etc.

• Excellent written and oral skills and advanced experience in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Plan swift (or equivalent) and able to create detailed purchasing schedules, financial analysists, procurement programs, take offs and reports.

• Must have the ability to easily read and understand construction drawings & plans and provide detailed take offs from the same and have a good understanding of physical construction schedules.

• Be willing to seek out new suppliers, negotiate competitive pricing and assist the office with purchase orders and monthly construction claims.

• Have experience in shipping logistics, preparing all necessary documentation to ship, receive and inventory materials ordered.

• Extensive experience in design build projects would be an asset as the employee will work closely with the design department in the development of future projects.

• Employee must be fluent in written and oral English. Other written and oral languages would be an asset (in particular French and Spanish).

• Salary Range Dependant on Individuals Qualifications and Experience, plus company Cell Phone. Annual Bonus Scheme Offered based upon Employee and Company Performance.

• Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com and also deliver a copy to our main office at the following address: 390 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands (Tel 649 333 2210).

• Islanders applying for this position are encouraged, in addition to providing a copy of their resume and covering letter to the company, to provide the same to the TCIG Labor Board & Immigration Board for consideration.

• Applicants should be aware that one of the requirements of the interview for this position will be for the candidate to provide a live demonstration of their ability to read construction drawings, operate take off software and produce associated schedules.

Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com and deliver a copy to our main office at the following address: 390 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands (Tel 649 333 2210).

Islanders applying for this position are encouraged, in addition to providing a copy of their resume and covering letter to the company, to provide the same to the TCIG Labor Board & Immigration Board for consideration.

ISLAND PRIME BUTCHER SHOP

HEAD BUTCHER

• Must be knowledgable in all aspects of butchery with experience breaking down primal and subprimal animals

• Must have 5-7 years experience in a simaler role

• Must have experience with making charcuterie and

41657

sausages

• Must have experience with ordering and inventory pars

• Must be personable, goal driven and detail oriented

• Monthly salary of $5,000$7000 monthly depending on experience

INTERESTED APPLICANTS ARE ASKED TO SUBMIT THEIR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO: JAMES@ISLANDPRIMEBUTCHER.COM

ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST HAVE A VALID POLICE RECORD WHEN APPLYING.

B & S COOLING SERVICES

PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

CONTACT NO. 941-8112

Is seeking to employ:

MAINTENANCE WORKER

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Survey buildings and repair refrigeration & mechanical systems to ensure they are consistent with health and safety standards

• Perform maintenance of electrical& refrigeration systems.

• Setup of ventilation, refrigeration, and other systems and conduct repairs when necessary

• Maintain and repair plumbing and heating& cooling components

• Prepare, prime, and paint building interior and exterior surfaces

• Maintain and repair Hill Phoenix racking and other HVAC systems.

• Perform manual repairs, when necessary, on refrigeration and other equipment

• Conduct general upkeep procedures and other tasks as assigned (painting, carpentry, etc.)

• Compile with all policies for the safe storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous materials.

• Participate in ongoing technical, safety, and operational process training programs

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment

• Document work performance and materials procurement as directed

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous working experience as a Maintenance Technician for 10+ years (s)

• High school diploma

• Relevant certification in HVAC, CMRP, etc.

• Advanced understanding of electrical, refrigeration, and other systems

• In-depth knowledge of general maintenance processes and methods

• Applicable knowledge of tools, common appliances, and devices

• Manual dexterity and attention to detail

• Problem-solving aptitude

• Good physical condition

This position is for the renewal of work permits. The salary for this position is $12.00 per hour.

NOTICE OF DORMANT ACCOUNT

SCOTIABANK (TCI) LTD

The public is hereby given notice that SCOTIABANK (TCI) LTD holds the following dormant accounts: Scotiabank invites heirs, next of kin, executors, to contact the Bank concerning deceased clients.

Chequing Account ALINGTON JONAS BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account PEARLINE HINSON FREDERICK ST. GRAND TURK

PROVIDEN-

Chequing Account LETETIA BARRETT BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES Chequing Account MARIE OSCAR-HINSONMA MATILDA WAY, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account JOSEPH FELIZOR FIVE CAYS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account HOPEFUL HANDFIELD AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account JULSON TELUSMA FIVE CAYS, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account DUERADO HANDFIELD BOTTLE CREEK, NORTH CAICOS

Savings Account DOUGLAS GLENN RUSE GRAND VIEW, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account ANGELA RAMCHARITAR AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account JEFFERSON SEIDE BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account JOSEPH GARDERE PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account KAZIAH BURKE LONG BAY, PROVIDENCIALES ACCOUNT TYP E

KNOWN AD-

Chequing Account ALAN DUFFY LEEWARD PALMS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account JULIUS RIGBY WEST ROAD, GRAND TURK Business Current Account TURTLE ARCHITECTS USA

THE PUBLIC IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN NOTICE OF THE FOLLOWING –

1. Unless one or more of the following transactions are effected on a dormant account listed above on or before the 15th day of April 2024, the monies in the dormant account will be transferred to the general revenue of the Islands without further notice-

(a) Increase or decrease the amount held or owed in the Financial Institution1;

(b) Present the passbook or other record for the crediting of interest or dividends in respect to any general deposit, demand deposit, savings deposit or deposit for a fixed period, made in the Islands;

1 Interest paid, or account fees applied, by a Financial Institution on monies held or owed in the Financial Institution shall not be regarded as a transaction which increase or decreases the amount held in the Financial Institution pursuant to section 4(4) of the Dormant Accounts Ordinance.

(c) Correspond in writing with the Financial Institution concerning the monies; or

(d) Otherwise indicate an interest in the monies as evidenced in writing by the Financial Institution.

2. Subject to the Dormant Accounts Ordinance, on the transfer of the monies in the dormant account to the general revenue of the Islands, the dormant account holder will no longer have any right against the Financial Institution to the repayment of the monies transferred, but the dormant account holder will have against the Government such right to repayment of the monies transferred that the dormant account holder would have had against the Financial Institution.

3. Any interested person should contact the Financial Institution mentioned above to establish if that person is a dormant account holder.

Northern Caribbean Security Summit strengthens regional cooperation

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Leaders from the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, the US, and the UK recently gathered in Nassau, for the Northern Caribbean Security Summit (NOCSS).

The crux of the summit was to discuss and coordinate efforts to address shared threats to national security.

The high-level summit is a critical part of the ongoing tripartite discussions on strategies to combat the evolving threats to security in the region.

A wide range of issues were addressed at the conference with a key focus on transnational organised crime, irregular migration, and cyber security.

Participants also discussed the regional threat landscape and ways to strengthen regional coordination, information sharing, and tactical planning.

HE Governor Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam, who led the TCI delegation, provided an overview of the TCI’s security posture and capabilities. Presentations were also given by other TCI officials on topics like transnational organised crime, intelligence gathering, and cyber security.

The summit was a success in furthering regional cooperation on security issues. It highlighted the importance of collaboration among countries in the region to address common security challenges. The participants agreed to continue working together to improve regional security and protect the citizens of the Northern Caribbean.

The Turks and Caicos Islands delegation also included the Hon

Minister of Immigration Arlington Musgrove and Hon Attorney General Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles, RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, Border Force, FIA, NSS and probation leads.

In the lead-up to the Summit, Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam met with the Governor-General of the Bahamas, HE Cynthia A. Pratt, to discuss urban renewal, youth empowerment, and crime prevention projects.

She also met with the Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Clayton Fernander, and other senior officials to discuss ongoing partnerships and joint operations in tackling irregular migration and crime.

According to a statement posted to the Office of the Governor’s Office Facebook page, Her Excellency, the Governor also made courtesy visits to the Hon Speaker of the House, Patricia Deveaux, the Rt Rev. Bishop Laish Boyd, the British High Commissioner to the Bahamas, Tom Hartley and the TCI diaspora office, reflecting on the close family and ties between TCI and the Bahamas.

The first day of the summit saw an opening ceremony, featuring remarks from the Acting Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Hon Chester Cooper.

The day was also filled with discussions on regional security, information sharing, and tactical planning. Governor DanielSelvaratnam provided an overview of the TCI’s security posture and capabilities, and presentations were given by other TCI officials on topics like transnational organised crime, intelligence gathering, and

cyber security.

“Presentations were given by the RTCIPF and NSS on our security posture to tackle transnational organised crime, coordinated efforts in developing the intelligence picture and on cyber security.

“Her Excellency the Governor held meetings with partners to discuss and prioritise areas of tactical focus and joint operations around irregular migration and securing our maritime borders”, the Governor’s Office said.

The second day of the summit focused on ways to consolidate

efforts to tackle financial crime and other issues with regional impacts. The Hon. Attorney General of the TCI, along with other TCI officials, participated in discussions on the situation in Haiti and agreed to work together on a more coordinated response.

On the final day of the summit, the TCI delegation focused on ways to consolidate efforts to tackle financial crime, wider work on consequential impacts such as public health, education and safeguarding matters and prevention strategies, including

youth empowerment.

Presentations were given by the Hon Attorney General, the Financial Intelligence Agency, the National Security Secretariat, and the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Services.

The Bahamas officially handed over the chair of the next summit to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam and her delegation represented the TCI with pride and professionalism at the summit, which was a success in furthering regional cooperation on security issues.

HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam led TCI’s delegation which included Minister of Immigration, Hon Arlington Musgrove and Hon Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, the RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, Border Force, FIA, NSS and probation leads

Leaders from the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, the US, and the UK

Cuba Gooding Jr added to Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sexual assault lawsuit

The federal sex-trafficking investigation involving music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is broadening its reach.

A music producer who first sued Sean “Diddy” Combs for sexual assault back in February is now adding Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr to that complaint.

Rodney Jones, also known as Lil Rod, is adding Gooding to his claims. He said the actor sexually harassed and assaulted him, such as by groping him while aboard Combs’ yacht. Jones’ original lawsuit alleged the Bad Boy Records founder forced him to procure sex workers and forced him to engage in unwelcome sex acts.

That same lawsuit claims Combs admitted to being responsible for that infamous 1999 New York City nightclub shooting which ended up getting him, then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez and rapper Jamal “Shyne” Barrow arrested.

Ultimately, Barrow was charged with the shooting and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Combs was arrested on weapons charges.

Shooting victim Natania Reuben says Combs shot her in the face that night.

“I literally watched them pull out the guns, I had a clear point of view,” she said during an appearance on “Elizabeth Vargas Reports.” “I mean I was literally shot in my nose. I was facing them directly, I watched everything occur.”

“Because his name was more notable, he was believed, rather than a victim who gave a first-hand account,” she explained. “By the grace of God, I survived.”

Reuben filed a $130 million lawsuit for compensation against Combs in 2008 and settled in June 2011.

Jones’ lawsuit is among many that the rap impresario has faced recently, though he’s not alone in his legal woes.

Meanwhile in June of 2023, Gooding settled a

civil sexual abuse case just before trial. He was accused of raping a woman in a New York City hotel 10 years prior.

Law enforcement officials tell KTLA 5 that they have not arrested Combs after raiding homes tied to him in Los Angeles and Miami on Monday.

They have arrested Combs’ alleged drug “mule,” who was traveling with him. Brendan Paul, 25, was taken into custody on Monday at Miami’s OpaLocka Airport.

Video shows federal agents intercepting Combs’ private plane before Paul was about to board. He’s been booked on one count of possession of cocaine and marijuana candy.

The Miami Herald reports the “Last Night” singer was at the airport with Paul; the pair were headed on a spring break trip with Combs’ twin daughters. This was just hours after both homes were raided.

The day of the raids, a private plane arrived in the Bahamas, which was connected to Combs. However, the Prime Minister confirmed that Combs was not on that plane.

In the meantime, his representatives and attorneys maintain his innocence.

Attorney Aaron Dyer called the searches ”a gross use of military-level force” and that Combs is “innocent and will continue to fight” to clear his name.

Dyer issued a statement on Tuesday, a day after the raids.

“There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated.”

A music producer who first sued Sean “Diddy” Combs for sexual assault back in February is now adding Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr to that complaint

Stocking

Salary:

CONTACT: 232-3265

DINESH@ENESHIPPING.COM

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

Salary:

CONTACT: 245-9125

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 346-0206

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5384

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO

CARIBBEAN BUILDERS

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-7631

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

•

•

CONTACT: 243-1019 41702

Salary:

Salary:

CONTACT:

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 331-0830

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

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

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 244-0065 41715

Salary: $350.00 weekly

CONTACT: 231-7067 41662

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD A WORK PERMIT HOLDER CURRENTLY HOLDS THIS POSITION Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

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

Salary: $8.50 hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 245-6070 OR 246-6464 41712

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Rosangeles Maria Vasquez De Penn by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

•

•

•

CONTACT:

INFO@ATLANTIS-BUILT.COM

BELONGERS

(FIRST TIME)

Rate: 8.00 per hr.

Description: Assisting owner with meal prep and clean up.

TEL: 947-0561

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 333-5559

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41619

GILLEY’S

PURCHASER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0160

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

41678

Manual labor such as digging trenches, holes, cleaning irrigation tanks, moving equipment, moving soil, cleaning and assisting technicians on other duties as require.

Salary 8.00/hr

CONTACT: 649-941-5579

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41742

ENTERPRISES IS LOOKING TO HIRE TALENTED CANDIDATES TO JOIN OUR TEAM!

COST CONTROLLER

(starting salary $30,000 per annum)

Oversee and manage all financial aspects related to the restaurant’s cost control. You will play a crucial role in maximizing profitability by monitoring expenses, implementing cost-saving measures, analyzing financial data, and ensuring adherence to budgetary guidelines.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Financial Monitoring and Analysis/Inventory Management/Vendor Management/Cost Control Strategies/Financial Compliance/Training and Communication/Restaurant Operations/Guest Satisfaction

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• A minimum of 3 years of successfully managing F&B operations.

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial analysis and reporting.

• Proven leadership with excellent management and interpersonal skills.

• Exceptional customer relations skills.

• Food Service Management, Restaurant Management, or Hospitality degree is a plus.

• Proficiency in MS Office and POS systems

• Extensive knowledge and ability to negotiate food purchasing terms, pricing, and delivery based on budget and schedule requirements

INVENTORY CHECKER

(starting salary $10 per hour)

Ensure accuracy and correctness of inventory movement. Also, responsible for keeping inventory records, overseeing the ordering of inventory, conducting physical counts of inventory, and updating inventory records.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Customer Order Processing and Management/ Coordinating stock counts/Analysing discrepancies/Monitoring inventory levels and

planning delivery schedules/Creating reports

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Degree in Business Management or similar

• Experience in an entry-level role in logistics, supply chain operations, or a similar field.

• Good analytical and logistical thinking abilities.

• Knowledge of inventory control methods and techniques

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry

• Ability to communicate effectively in English both in written format and oral presentation; second language is an asset

RETAIL STORE MANAGER

(starting salary $40,000 per annum)

Responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of assigned retail outlets, and for ensuring customers have access to desired products.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Customer Statement Processing and Management/ Accounts Monitoring and Reconciliation/Payment Processing/Collection Activities/Reporting and Documentation/Customer Service and Communication

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing or related discipline OR 5 years sales/marketing experience OR combination of education and relevant experience in the Wine and Spirits industry

• Familiarity with the latest trends, technologies and methodologies

• Prior experience working in a retail store setting

• Proficient in MS Office software, with emphasis on Word and Excel

• Minimum of Level 2 WSET or equivalent qualifications in The Wine and Spirits Industry.

• Strong analytical skills and reporting abilities.

• Ability to communicate effectively in English both in written format and oral presentation; second language is an asset

FABIENNE

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-8950

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41683

71M

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving.

Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 649-345-4777 41872

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

•

•

•

CONTACT: 649-242-9770

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

•

CONTACT: 243-3282

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Setting

Preparing

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-9432

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

Salary: $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 346-0002

Selling products and providing customer service. Maintain the outlook of a store by cleaning and restocking shelves

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-7836

BELONGERS

ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Companies Ordinance (CAP. 16.08)

Section 237

Notice is hereby given that

STEVEN ROSS of M & S Trust Company Limited, Regent House West, Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands was appointed as the voluntary liquidator of ALESTE HOLDINGS LTD (solvent liquidation) on 12 March 2024.

All enquiries should be directed to the voluntary liquidator’s attorney Miller Simons O’Sullivan, Regent House West, Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turk and Caicos Islands for the attention of Jonathan Katan KC – jk@mslaw.tc

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Uphold customer service Maintain Bar Mix and serve drinks

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 946-8877

BELONGERS

JOB VACANCY FINANCE MANAGER

LOCATION: PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

DEPARTMENT: FINANCE

REPORTING TO: CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The Finance Manager will be primarily responsible for overseeing the daily financial accounting, reporting, and strategic financial planning activities within the organization. Their key responsibility lies in providing dependable financial and business information crucial for informed decision-making by key management. Additionally, they will provide insightful analysis of financial operating results, ensuring alignment with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), regulatory requirements, and management objectives. Moreover, the Finance Manager will uphold productivity standards across all areas of financial responsibility, ensuring the efficiency of the finance staff.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Accountable for company-wide accounting and financial reporting functions, including General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivables, Payroll, Inventory, Cash Management, and other Financial Reporting functions.

• Monitor reporting systems, prepare accurate financial reports and statements, interpret data, prepare and publish all financial documents, and ensure adherence to regulations.

• Maintains and monitors financial policies and procedures, ensuring operational and financial compliance.

• Uses financial analyses and modelling to simulate economic scenarios and determine the company’s present and future financial condition.

• Develop financial management strategies to reduce financial risk, provide relevant recommendations to maximize profits, and assist executives in decision-making.

• Provides timely and accurate reporting of month-end closings and financial reporting activities.

• Contributes to the achievement of Company objectives through the accurate and timely identification and resolution of accounting issues/opportunities.

• Collaborates with external auditors to provide in-depth assistance with periodic financial and inventory audits.

• Own and oversee the annual business plan development, ensuring reliable forecasts are produced.

• Build and own the reporting dashboards that enable the company to understand how it is performing versus its plan.

• Own and build our finance infrastructure, covering tools, processes, disbursements, and collections.

• Manage cash and improve cash forecasting, AR, and AP processes.

• Manage the financial system, ensuring maximum productivity and that it meets the needs of the business today and in the future.

• Oversees the continuous improvement of Accounting and Financial Processes and the development of the team, with the goal of achieving best practices and optimal output.

• Ensure that all finances are properly administered and monitored.

• Ensure that appropriate financial regulations and controls are always in place and in use.

• Ensure that all financial reporting obligations are met in relation to cash management.

• Identifies, investigates, and analyses potential operational improvement. Based on findings, propose appropriate operational changes (policy, procedures, processes, etc.).

• Maintains a documented system of accounting policies and procedures.

• Ensure sufficient funds are available to meet ongoing operational and capital investment requirements.

• Maintain banking relationships.

• Report to management on variances from the established budget and the

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PERMANENT

COMPENSATION: GRADE: 9.1 – 9.5

reasons for those variances.

• Engage in ongoing cost reduction analyses in all areas of the company.

• Ensure compliance with policies, government regulations, and IFRS standards.

• Develop and execute improvement plans on the financial reporting process including updating the Finance Operations Manual for new processes.

• Perform economic evaluations of projects and investments to improve financial performance.

• Assist the Procurement Manager in the execution and compliance of relevant procurement-related policies and procedures and other requirements.

• Responsible for the continued training and development of departmental staff.

• Establishes cross-training as required.

• Monitors the succession plan of subordinates to ensure that the department operates effectively and efficiently.

• Coordinate the development of training plans to ensure that they are enforced and scheduled properly so as not to cause interruptions in the normal course of business.

• Provide coaching, guidance, and support, as well as set professional development plans to assist employees in reaching their full potential through the performance management process.

• Ensure that written performance evaluations of supervised employees are completed as required, provide continuous feedback on personnel performance issues, and take immediate action to recognize achievements and address deficiencies or problems.

• Conduct formal performance appraisals for employees to assess employee performance and help employees improve their performance.

• Develop and publish measurements of the group’s customer service and productivity levels.

• Other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree with a major in Accounting or a Master’s Degree equivalent

• CPA, CA, ACCA preferred.

• Prior experience working in a finance team, ideally within a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent team player and team-building skills.

• Excellent leadership abilities.

• Must possess excellent oral and written communication, organization, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to look for opportunities for continuous improvement and challenge the status quo.

• Ability to influence and negotiate within the department, across the organization, and with internal and external stakeholders to gain support for initiatives and achieve desired results.

• Must possess excellent working knowledge of MS Office software programs.

• Must possess working knowledge of financial management, internal controls, forecasting and budgeting techniques.

• Must possess extensive knowledge in the area of International Financial Reporting Standards.

• Must possess the ability to develop, monitor and maintain management information systems and procedures.

• Capable of fostering strong interpersonal relationships across the organization while tactfully presenting necessary business challenges in a constructive and respectful manner.

SWEEP

Providing

Prep and prepare all meals at a timely manner and

$8.00 Hourly weekly

CONTACT: HOG ROAD RESTAURANT

BELFIELD DOCK, NORTH CAICOS, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

EMAIL:INFO@HOGROAD.COM PHONE: (649) 247-9909

TANIS WAKE-FORBES

#121 Man O’

3F LUXURY HAIR BEAUTY SALON 2 HAIRSTYLISTS $8.00 hourly Washing and styling hair.

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

• Heavy

machines

• 5 years’ experience required

• Must have valid driver’s license

Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 232-3478

ALCINEUS

Cleaning and maintaining the property

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-344-1898

Salary:

CONTACT: 649-244-2015

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

1 NAIL TECHNICIAN $8.00 hourly Perform manicures, pedicures and nail care.

JACQUELIN BERNADIN LABOURER $8.00 hourly Perform cleaning and repair duties. Acting

CONTACT: 649-331-2251 41760

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: TAWAKE@TCIWAY.TC OR 231-5012

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41651

• Hold a minimum of 4 years’ experience in the field of finish carpentry – including, but not necessarily limited to, internal doors & frames, baseboards, lumber roof finishes and millwork in general.

• Some experience in rough carpentry (formwork etc.) would be an asset – but not essential.

• Have a concise understanding of all finish carpentry materials and be able to fully interpret, read and understand architectural and shop drawings and have a very high level of finishes experience.

• Employee must be fluent in written and oral English. (French and Spanish would be an asset)

• Employees will also need to be computer proficient as many drawings and schedules being used on site will be computer/tablet based not in the form of hard paper drawings.

• Must be able to work under own direction and able to manage subordinates.

• Must be willing to work outside of the normal working hours of operation (weekends and public holidays)

• Salary $15 hourly (subject to overtime and public holiday pay where applicable)

CONTACT: 246-8402 41873

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41864

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41836

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.

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 941-5050

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41817

FIDELITY CONSTRUCTION

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/ or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

Salary: $12.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-232-9432

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

41794

Phase

HANDYMAN

Duties performing daily in yard maintenance, cleaning, maintaining, safe guarding the premises. Plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, etc.

Salary: $1,900.00 Monthly

CONTACT: 342-0995

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41862

VACANCIES

ERB CONSTRUCTION

4 B North Side / 331-1067

MECHANIC: $10 hourly

Change and fix parts, etc

PLUMBER: $10 hourly

Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures

CONSTRUCTION

LABOURER $8 hourly

Assist mason, carpenter, etc.

WMW CONSTRUCTION

354 Blue Hills 345-6297

CARPENTER

$10 hourly

Installing structure, cabinets, etc.

RENEWAL. BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

41875

ERODE NOEL

Dock

a

BABYSITTER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly, 5 days weekly

CONTACT: 343-6204

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41797

EXECUTIVE CLEANING COMPANY

38 Yellow Elder Dr., Leeward Palms Is seeking to employ a

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/ or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-4587

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

41800

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-4707

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 244-5638

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 347-9345

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

Salary:

CONTACT: 345-9583

BELONGERS

Stocking designatedsupplyingandfacility areas,sweeping,dusting, mopping,vacuuming,restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-242-3823

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41814

GM MECHANIC SHOP

Five Cays Rd Is seeking to employ a

Inspecting and testing vehicles, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.

Salary: $3000.00 monthly

CONTACT: 242-2824

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41809

•

Stocking designatedsupplyingandfacility areas,sweeping,dusting, mopping,vacuuming,restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-9786

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41857

•

CONTACT: 241-4158

JAP CONSTRUCTION

HOUSEKEEPER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-241-4158

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41849

CONTACT:

JN-LOUIS MESIDOR

Cleaning activities such as dusting, sweeping, mopping, clean ceiling vents, restroom cleaning. Perform duties as instructed.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-7967

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41826

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT:

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

JUNIOR ETIENNE RIGBY

KATIA JACOB

CONTACT: 242-6976

BELONGERS

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-331-8166

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-1041

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

LEYINS MAGREMY SAINT LOUIS

THREE (3) TUG

for 450 tug/ barge.

Work days: Monday - Saturday Starting salary $2,000.00

CONTACT: 941-5707

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41842

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-343-2828

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

KETURA

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-5326

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41828

Ensuring

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 343-3652

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

41789

CONTACT: (649)-941-7331

BELONGERS

IVANNA LOUIS METELLUS

Cleaning

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 232-7630 41687

Cleaning

up yard waste, dispose of trash, lifting heavy objects, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Smooth Surfaces of objects or equipment. Roll new rubber treads. Repair tires. Order replacements. Order materials, supplies, or equipment. Prepare rims and wheel drums for reassembly.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 331-5918

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 242-3546 41770

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41685

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

RENEWAL,

CONTACT: 947-6909

BELONGERS APPLY TO

41699

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-343-6410

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41753

buildings, and machines. Tasks include plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-5616

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41656

Applicant must be willing to work, honest and reliable.

General housework such as washing, ironing, cooking and cleaning.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-331-8166

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41752

LOFTON

Salary:

Hourly

CONTACT: 231-5109

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 242-0287

BELONGERS

Ensuring

Salary:

CONTACT: 243-0397

BELONGERS

ENCOURAGED

41661

Salary:

CONTACT:

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 344-5390

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Cleaning of shop, sweeping, mopping and dusting.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5914

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41691

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-1532

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

Salary:

CONTACT: 347-0283

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41658

etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-4813

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Salary:

CONTACT: 342-0803

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Greets customers, receive payment, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Ensure money is accurate and correct and be in charge of office.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 244-2327

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41719

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Salary:

CONTACT: 346-5546

BELONGERS

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 241-2550 41697

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

JOHN

JUNIOR ETIENNE RIGBY

JOSENIE

KEKE

KENNRICK

LATASHA MILANDA JENNINGS

LUCIEN

SUMMARY

The Property Manager is responsible of the general operation, maintenance and record keeping of at least one property, but typically several, which are part of the company’s management portfolio, reporting to the General Manager on a regular basis. Duties with this role include bookkeeping, landscape management as well as all tasks associated with co-ordination of property maintenance, repairs, regulations and inspections. As such mandatory experience for this role includes a minimum of 10 years’ experience in business accounting. Successful individuals working in this role generally possess a diverse skill-set including the ability to negotiate, build relationships with guests and manage records. Additionally, they should have sound knowledge of business and financial proceedings.

DESCRIPTION

They are expected to take prospective clients on tours of the properties, prepare agreements and ensure required services are connected. The Property Manager role can be very demanding and the necessary skills are required to handle any problems that may occur. They are also required to have excellent people skills and make not only their clients feel comfortable, but to report regularly to Property owners on all pertinent aspects on the Property rental.

SKILLS

• Accounting and Finance back ground ( extensive ), with the ability to use QuickBooks and Excel to provide at least monthly reporting to company management and property owners as required.

• Administrative skills and demonstrable attention to details

• Ability to work flexible hours and extended periods, we have a season that can be very busy, the Property Manager is expected to be available to clients 24/7 when they are in-residence, position is a salaried position and after hours work is expected.

• Being positive and courteous to clients

EDUCATION

Knowledge and proven experience of management, accounting, landscaping, construction and repairs are mandatory, an extensive health and safety knowledge, along with first aid training is also favored.

SALARY: $1,700 per month

TOUR DESK REPRESENTATIVE

Needed at Caicos Dream Tours JOIN OUR TEAM

Caicos Dream Tours is excited to announce an opening for a Tour Desk Representative. We are looking for a proactive and enthusiastic individual to become an integral part of our team, working closely with Caicos Dream Tours to provide exceptional service to our guests.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Efficiently handle and direct all tour inquiries towards excursions offered by Caicos Dream Tours.

• Knowledgeably offer information and sell alternative excursions and services, strictly adhering to those pre-approved by Caicos Dream Tours.

• Diligently post all bookings (tour desk and office voucher) at the designated resort front desk, ensuring all transactions are accurately reported and presented to the supervisor daily.

• Provide guests with comprehensive and helpful information about excursions approved by Caicos Dream Tours, enhancing their experience and satisfaction.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• A passion for customer service and a flair for sales.

• The ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

• A keen eye for detail and accuracy in handling bookings and transactions. We Offer:

• A dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

• A supportive team that values collaboration and innovation.

• Competitive base salary plus commissionable sales income.

If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a customer-focused role and are excited about the world of tours and excursions, we would love to hear from you!

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 347-3520 41692

facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0673

BELONGERS

CAICOS

Grace

Salary: $10.00

SABRINA

Duties:

CONTACT: 244-1837

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

SALARY:

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 342-9647

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Duties:

TOURS / JULINE HIGGS

GENERAL WORKERS BEACH ATTENDANTS

(unskilled) to carry out daily activities associated with tours provided to mainly cruise ship guests, at the beach and other locations. To work closely with the Management Team. To assist the Operations Manager, with the preparation and executing of customer service activities for all cruise ship and local guests, during their beach visits.

ONE DOMESTIC WORKER

To care for basic household chores, without supervision.

PAYMENT STARTS AT $8.00 PER HOUR, BASED ON EXPERIENCE.

PLEASE SEND ALL WRITTEN APPLICATIONS WITH A CURRENT PHOTO ID, LEGAL STATUS AND A CHARACTER REFERENCE LETTER TO:

DWIGHT OR JULINE HIGGS

OFFICE ESSENTIALS PLUS, WINDMILLS PLAZA, UNIT #2

GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CONTACT NUMBERS: 649-2310400 OR 649-2316975 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDERS, SHOULD ALSO FORWARD A COPY TO THE LABOUR BOARD OFFICE. v

41727

VACANCIES

MODERN DAY CONSTRUCTION (241-4108)

9 Moonstone Road, Blue Hills, Providenciales

HELPER - $8 hourly Dig trenches, remove refuse, etc.

RIGBY BUILDERS (241-9541)

Five Cays, Providenciales

CARPENTER - $8-12 hourly Formwork, install doors etc.

CHRISTOPHER & REBECCA DAVIES (941-8743)

Leeward, Providenciales

NANNY - $500.00 weekly Care for twins, house chores etc.

CLUB COCONUTS (242-3173)

#26 Aviation Drive, Providenciales

BARTENDER - $8.00 hourly Mix & serve drinks etc.

CHADWIN GRAY (346-3859)

Downtown, Providenciales

KVANAR LTD is

seeking a

SITE SUPERVISOR / ENGINEER FOR

IMMEDIATE EMPLOYMENT

POSITION OVERVIEW

BSc Building Management / Civil Engineering Graduate with a minimum of 5 years construction experience.

The prospective person must be a leader with a high level of initiative and the ability to deal with a variety of on-site activities. They must be a logical problem solver who can effectively communicate solutions to crew leaders and tradespeople. This position requires high levels of organization and attention to detail.

KEY TASKS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Supervising and overseeing the overall direction and logistics of the project, ensuring that the Client’s specifications and requirements are met, reviewing ongoing progress, and liaising with in-house quantity surveyors to monitor costs.

• Construction scheduling and programming

• Liaising with the Client and other construction professionals

• Co-ordinating and supervising construction workers and trades

• Selecting tools and materials

• Making safety inspections and ensuring construction and site safety

• Checking and preparing site reports, designs, and drawings

• Maintaining quality control procedures

• Assessing and mitigating risk

• Writing reports and preparing time sheets / records for payroll

• Negotiating contracts and securing permits and licences.

The chosen candidate would become part of the Kvanar team and contribute to the development of the company’s corporate strategy to lead, motivate, and develop the construction operations team as well as develop and maintain relationships with key Clients and other relevant bodies to maximise both personal and company potential.

Salary Range Dependant on Individuals Qualifications and Experience.

PLEASE

DOMESTIC WORKER - $8.00 hourly

General house chores etc.

GOOD QUALITY STORE (231-3450)

#15 Musgrove Cl, Kew Town, Providenciales

CLEANERS - $8.00 HOURLY

clean inside and outside of the store, remove refuse etc.

RODY FRANCOIS (342-2705)

Blue Hills, Providenciales

LABOURER - $8.00 HOURLY

General cleaning, heavy lifting etc.

THELUSMA SAINT LOUIS JR (346-5721)

Five Cays

LABOURER - $8.00 HOURLY

General cleaning, heavy lifting etc.

VISION CONSTRUCTION (242-9155)

Five Cays, Providenciales

LABOURER - $$8 -$9:00 hourly Clean sites, remove refuse, dig trenches etc

NEW & RENEWAL WORK OF PERMITS. BELONGERS TO APPLY WITH

41771

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

B & S TECHNOLOGY

Five Cays Access Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9417939

We are looking for the following:

PRICING CLERK

• Ability to read/interpret documents, Intermediate math skills.

• You are detail-oriented and organized.

• You work well in a fast-paced environment.

• Good communication and listening skills.

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

• Desire to work with customers consistently.

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

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

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERK

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

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems and comfortable using them.

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

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

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

REQUIREMENTS:

• College Graduate with a degree in any 4-year Course.

• With at least 5 years of work experience.

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

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

• A positive attitude. Show up on time.

• Being flexible on what days and hours you can work.

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

BOAT CAPTAIN

It is important to note that the safety of our guests and TCI’s visitors takes center stage in all our decision making and that includes employment. It is imperative that our Boat Captains, with their rescue certifications can captain our vessels and are able to always provide credible and insurable surface support. Likewise, our instructors have this skill set to our captains, ensuring they are able to take over piloting a vessel should the need arise. As such, these two roles are often interchangeable and should anything happen during our charters, instructor crew would also then be able to “take control”. Thus the ability for our instructors, guides and captains to be fluid is absolutely paramount to safely delivering our products to our guests.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Looking for certified boat captains with experience to drive vessels inboard and outboard from 29ft to 50ft.

• Minimal requirements on the license equivalent to STCW.

• Recognized International day boat or Yacht master certifications will enhance application.

• Individuals must be able to show solid documented sea time via logs or resumes.

• Captains must possess a minimum of dive master certification and be prepared to lead and guide dives. Qualified PADI OWSI or MSDT with 3+ years experience teaching and guiding with high end clientele would be preferred

• Applicants must also be available as in and on the water eco guides for activities like snorkeling.

• Marine biology background and experience in eco watersports is an asset.

• Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with professional boating experience or Captain’s license.

• Be living (or be willing to live) on Providenciales and be punctual, reliable and able to work long days, public holidays, and weekends.

• Experience conducting snorkel tours, guiding kayak and paddleboard tours is an asset.

• Experience maintaining dive equipment an

asset.

• Currnt First Aid qualifications.

DUTIES:

• Operate boats 35ft to 50ft with utmost of safety with a current valid TCI Captain’s licence in the waters of TCI

• Maintain, prep can clean boats to a high safety standard

• Prep trips with needed coolers and additional items as needed.

• Conduct snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding trips.

• Maintenance of dive equipment if qualified.

• Individuals must be flexible with the ability to work public holidays and long hours.

• Pay is commensurate with skill and experience, starting at $165 per day

Positions currently held by work permit holders. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

KITCHEN HELPER

Looking for a suitable candidate to help prepare food for boat charters, clean coolers and clean office premises. Duties include cooking, baking, cleaning, food prep, inventory and food ordering. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. The following are required of the applicant:

• Fluent in English with good speaking and reading skills.

• Must be willing to start as early as 5am, work long days, weekends and public holidays.

• Have prior experience and certification in kitchen health and safety standards.

• Experience with cooking, baking and food display.

The position is currently held by a work permit holder. Turks Islanders are preferred. Salary ranges from $8-$12

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

Salary: $12.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-431-2975

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE

LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

Cleaning tires, assisting with washing vehicles, etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-3452

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-344-1567

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

REYNOLD CHARLES

Cleaning around the surroundings and watersports equipments, taking out the trash, light lifting.

SALARY: $8.00 per hour weekly

CONTACT: 241-2266

ROBERT ANTHONY JOHNSON

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 649-241-9388 41706

ROBERT CHRISTOPHER FULFORD

Installs

Salary:

CONTACT:

Salary: $8.00 hourly DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 231-5109

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

SHANTAL JASMIN

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5512

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

house,

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5655

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

4757

SJ’S CURRY CLUB

STEVE MICHEL

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-5467

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Washes dishes and keeps kitchen area clean

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-7289

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41754

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 245-1167

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41748

JEAN CLAUDE AUGUSTE

341-0275

Blue Hills HELPER

$8.00

Pick up waste, dispose waste, maintain cleanliness of property and assist with on going construction

ALEX LUMA

443-1195

Millennium highway, (Jack apartments)

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my 5 months old daughter, feed, care for her and clean my home, wash, cook & iron

TORTILLAS

Rock Plaza, blue Hills

241-2078

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.00

Preparing the workstation for the cook, sorting and distributing ingredients, keeping the kitchen clean

FREDELYN REGIS

South inn, Five Cays

342-9892

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring

$8.00 Pick

$8.00

QUALITY CONTROL SUPERVISOR - FT

Applications are invited for a Quality Control Supervisor position at Blue Heron Aviation Ltd dba Atlantic Aviation PLS commencing April 2024. This role would require an immediate start or a short notice period. Closing date for application is Friday 5 April 2024. Please note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted to attend interviews.

SUMMARY:

As a member of the operations team, the Quality Control Supervisor is primarily responsible for the oversight as well as execution of all duties related to the facility’s daily quality controls functions. This position will ensure the equipment and personnel that deliver fuel products meet all safety guidelines as outline by the company and appropriate governing agencies.

GENERAL DUTIES WILL INCLUDE:

• Ensure all operations are conducted in accordance with company policies and procedures.

• Maintain high levels of safety and customer service.

• Application of the principles of the “Atlantic Attitude” at all times.

• Communication of work progress and significant issues with the management team.

• Comply with all airport authority rules and regulations including AOA operations and airport security requirements.

• Participate in continuous training including NATA programs and company designed curriculum.

• Perform fuel quality tests on applicable equipment and fuel product in accordance with ATA form 103 guidelines.

• Acceptance and control checks of fuel received into site operated fuel storage system(s).

• Conduct weekly, monthly and yearly maintenance checks and audits.

• Maintain appropriate safety equipment on hand such as cones, ear plugs, reflective vest, etc.

• Function as a Line Service Technician as needed.

SELECTION CRITERIA FOR THIS POSITION:

• Fuel handling experience Required.

• Minimum of at least two (2) years of experience as a Line Service Technician. Required.

• Customer relations skills Required.

• Supervisory experience Preferred.

• Minimum of a high school leaving diploma.

• Good communication skills, both written and oral.

• Computer literacy particularly with the use of Microsoft Office Suite.

• Consistently demonstrated good organizational and leadership skills.

• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and meet company’s insurability requirements.

• Ability to comprehend and perform basic math calculations with minimal errors.

SALARY RANGE:

$32,000 - $42,000 USD commensurate with qualification and experience

Preference for Belongers/PRC Holders/Freelance Work permit Holders Please send your CV for consideration to

The General Manager, travis.handfield@atlanticaviation.com

Closing Date: Friday 5 April 2024

Telephone: +1649 941 8000 / +1649 432 7728

41802

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

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BELONGERS

RICHMOND

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Salary: $8.00 hourly

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Salary:

CONTACT: 242-0952

BELONGERS

• Sweeping

Salary: $8.00 hourly, 6 days per week

CONTACT: 341-5572

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

THE

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 344-3188

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 231-1239

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 246-8752 OR SCOTT@ CRYSTALSANDSVILLA.COM

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Sports International

Caitlin Clark reportedly offered $5m from Ice Cube to join Big3

It appears Caitlin Clark isn’t just getting interest from the WNBA.

Clark, the Iowa Hawkeyes superstar projected to be

the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA draft on April 15, has received an offer to join the Big3, a 3-on-3 professional basketball league founded by Ice Cube that has employed several former NBA players.

The Big3 didn’t provide CNN financial terms. However, Ice Cube – a legendary Generation X rapper, hip hop icon and actor – posted a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, that included a story from TMZ, which reports the offer to Clark is $5 million.

“We intended the offer to remain private while Caitlin Clark plays for the championship,” Ice Cube said in a statement provided to CNN.

“But I won’t deny what’s now already out there: BIG3

made a historic offer to Caitlin Clark. Why wouldn’t we? Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3.

“The skeptics laughed when we made Nancy Lieberman the first female coach of a men’s pro team, and she won the championship in her first year. Then Lisa Leslie won it all in year two. With our offer, Caitlin Clark can make history and break down even more barriers for women athletes.”

The Big3 told CNN the offer is for up to 10 games: eight regular-season games and two playoff games should the team Clark potentially plays for qualifies. Clark also would be given clearance to play in the WNBA.

RECEPTIONIST/ADMIN ASSISTANT

The ideal candidate must possess a minimum of 3 years'

Duties will include providing Helpdesk and Admin Support Services, managing the switchboard, assisting patients, staff, and visitors, generating Brightly Reports, and maintaining conference rooms and hospitality services.

Applicants should have the availability to work full-time hours of 40 hours per week, specifically Monday-Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The desired individual must exhibit topnotch customer service skills along with exceptional communication abilities. A high level of proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory.

Salary: $25K

INTERESTED CANDIDATES PLEASE FORWARD YOUR RESUME TO: FMHR@INTERHEALTHCANADA.TC FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND QUERIES, PLEASE CONTACT MS. VIELKA FULFORD ON TEL: 941-2800 EXT 71803.

• The Purchasing Officer's key responsibilities include the monitoring, and ordering of inventories concerning the maintenance of adequate stock levels, facilitating the smooth transfer of documentation for shipment of goods between the Suppliers,

• Customs and the Warehouse.

• Preparation of Purchase Orders for all divisions.

• Follow-up with suppliers regarding order acknowledgment and shipment documentation as required.

• Follow-up regarding the inbound logistics of all shipments for the company

• Timely clearance of all shipments from the different ports of loading

• File purchase orders in their respective folders.

• Updating the container tracking software and distributing daily reports

Front & Back Office POS Systems • Extensive knowledge of NCR 7456 POS

• Highly developed organizational and analytical skills

• Ability to work well as part of a team.

• Must be computer literate and proficient in

• Salary starts at

•

& Technology

Regular exercise is associated with less insomnia, study shows

Tired from a restless night spent awake? One of the most helpful things to do might be to get some exercise, according to a new study.

“Physically active people have a lower risk of insomnia symptoms and extreme sleep duration, both long and short,” said lead study author Dr. Erla Björnsdóttir, sleep expert and part time teacher and researcher at Reykjavik University.

The study published Tuesday in the journal BMJ Open looked at data from more than 4,300 people ages 39 to 67 over a 10-year period.

Björnsdóttir is affiliated with a sleep application that tracks sleep and gives tips and resources for better sleep. The company didn’t fund this study, and the authors didn’t report any competing interests.

Participants in nine European countries were surveyed about their frequency, intensity and duration of physical activity as well as their symptoms of insomnia, amount of sleep each night and feelings of sleepiness during the day.

Those who were persistently active were 55% more likely to be normal sleepers – those who sleep 6 to 9 hours a night – and those who became active over the time period were 21% more likely to sleep normally – after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and smoking history, the study said.

The results are strong on their own but are also supported by an existing body of literature, said Dr. David Neubauer, associate professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He was not involved in the research.

“Our results are in line with previous studies that have shown a

Regular exercise is associated with less insomnia, study shows

beneficial effect of physical activity on symptoms of insomnia, but the current study additionally shows the importance of consistency in exercise over time,” Björnsdóttir said in an email. “It therefore matters to be physically active throughout your life in order to reduce the risk of insomnia and short sleep duration.”

The study may give health care professionals another tool alongside medication and therapy, said Dr. Shalini Paruthi, adjunct professor at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and an American Academy of Sleep Medicine spokesperson. She was not involved in the research.

“It gives us an idea of something that maybe we don’t always think about for treatment of insomnia,” Paruthi said.

WILL EXERCISE CURE MY INSOMNIA?

There are plenty of reasons why physical activity may help in getting a good night’s rest.

“Exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing mood. Physical activity helps regulate the body’s internal clock and promotes deeper, more restorative sleep,” Björnsdóttir said.

This study does not show on its

own that adding in exercise will reduce insomnia symptoms, since it did not get a clear baseline of sleep quality before activity was added in, Neubauer said.

However, there is still good evidence out there.

“There is some literature suggesting … people who start becoming more physically active and exercising more do have a tendency to have improved nighttime sleep in terms of their total sleep time, and their ability to fall asleep,” he said.

It’s important to note, however, that people who have long had problems with insomnia likely won’t find that exercise completely

cures their condition on its own, Paruthi added.

And it will vary individually — some people will see amazing results, others moderate and a group of people may not see any improvement, she said.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is the most effective tool out there for treating insomnia, so people with more severe sleep problems may want to seek that out as well, Paruthi added.

GETTING ACTIVE

You don’t have to start running marathons to get the benefit. You just have to start, the experts said.

“Even moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking or yoga, can have significant positive effects on sleep,” Björnsdóttir said.

Paruthi has seen from her patients that there are always roadblocks to getting more active, but that any amount helps.

“Even if you can only walk two houses to the left, come back and walk two houses to the right –that’s a great start,” she said. “Even if you’re doing five minutes a day, you just have to start somewhere.”

If you want to make your activity even more helpful to your circadian rhythm, you can get outside in the sunlight, Neubauer said.

“Both being outdoors and being physically active can have a positive effect on our circadian rhythm. And it is our circadian rhythm that promote sleep at nighttime and alertness during the daytime,” he said.

“The degree to which people can modify their lifestyles to enhance activity and being outdoors and getting more light certainly has the potential to have a positive effect on nighttime sleep.” (CNN)

The world wastes more than 1bn meals every day as hundreds of millions go hungry

More than 1 billion meals are wasted across the world each day while nearly 800 million people go hungry, a new United Nations report has found.

The world wasted 1.05 billion metric tons of food in 2022, meaning about a fifth of the food available to people was squandered by households, restaurants and other parts of the food service and retail sectors.

This is on top of the 13% of the world’s food lost as it makes its journey from farm to fork. In total, about a third of all food goes

to waste during the production process.

These waste figures are particularly stark when contrasted with the report’s findings that about a third of the world’s population faces food insecurity and 783 million are affected by hunger.

The staggering statistics, published Wednesday in the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

Food Waste Index Report 2024, raise questions about the world’s ability to distribute the food it produces and highlights the role of food waste as a driver of climate

change, according to UNEP Director Inger Andersen.

“Food waste is a global tragedy. Millions will go hungry today as food is wasted across the world,” Andersen said. “Not only is this a major development issue, but the impacts of such unnecessary waste are causing substantial costs to the climate and nature.”

The report distinguished between food “loss” — food discarded early in the supply chain, for instance vegetables that rot in fields and meat that spoils when unrefrigerated — and

food “waste,” food thrown out by households, restaurants and stores.

Households wasted 631 million metric tons of food in 2022 — 60% of the total — while the food service sector accounted for 28% of the waste and retail 12%.

The average person wastes 79 kilograms (174 pounds) of food each year, meaning at least one billion meals of edible food are wasted in households each day, the report found.

Even these estimates are conservative, according to the report. While data collection has

improved — with the number of data points at the household level almost doubling since the UN’s 2021 food waste report — it criticized countries for patchy monitoring.

Just 21 countries have included food loss and waste in their national climate plans, it said, despite the fact that it generates 8% to 10% of global planet-heating emissions – almost five times more than emissions from the aviation sector.

While the climate impact of

& Technology

Scientists find human brain has grown by whopping 7% since 1930

Researchers at the University of California (UC) Davis Health studied different brain sizes of people born from the 1930 through 1970s, finding a 6.6 percent increase in brains among Gen X compared to the Silent Generation.

The team theorised that growth could be caused by external influences like health, social, cultural and educational outside factors and could reduce the risk of age-related dementia.

It comes as more recent studies have indicated that even younger generations’ IQ scores have dropped in recent decades, which researchers have linked to an overreliance on phones and the internet. Gen Z and Alpha may have a larger brain than people who were born 100 years ago, yet studies have indicated they also have the lowest IQs of previous generations.

Brain size doesn’t necessarily make people more intelligent, and research has suggested that there is only a slight relationship between the two.

Neuroscientists have found that extra brain mass actually accomplishes very little when it comes to intelligence, and instead it serves to allow people to store more lifetime memories, according to Psychology Today.

However, the latest findings could be a contributing factor to why younger generations have a

Brain size doesn’t necessarily make people more intelligent, and research has suggested that there is only a slight relationship between the two

lower risk for developing dementia or Alzheimer’s.

The new study was conducted across 75 years and found the brain consistently grew by 6.6 percent for people in the 1970s compared to those born in the 1930s.

Today’s generation’s brains measure about 1,400 milliliters in volume, but the average brain volume for people born in the 1930s was 1,234 milliliters.

The researchers reported that factors like greater educational

The world wastes more than 1bn meals every day as ...

gas-guzzling flights has been well covered, the report suggested the impact of the more mundane issue of food waste has been overlooked.

Food is resource-intensive to produce, requiring huge amounts of land and water, and food systems are responsible for about a third of global planet-heating emissions.

achievements and better management of medical issues might explain why people’s brains have grown over the decades.

‘The decade someone is born appears to impact brain size and potentially long-term brain health,’ said Charles DeCarli, first author of the study and professor of neurology at the UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.

Researchers looked at patterns of cardiovascular and other diseases of people born in the 1930s and

introduced MRI tests (brain magnetic resonance imaging) of people of the second and third generations of the original 5,200 participants.

The MRIs were conducted between 1999 and 2019 on people born in the 1930s through the 1970s, consisting of more than 3,000 participants with an average age of 57 years old.

The area of the brain that grew the largest was the cortical surface area which controls motor activities and sensory information.

They reported that the area increased by 15 percent in volume and the region of the brain involved in learning and memory, called the hippocampus, had also increased in size.

However, the number of people struck by Alzheimer’s has decreased by 20 percent since the 1970s, according to a separate study, and researchers are now saying increased brain size may be the culprit.

‘Larger brain structures like those observed in our study may reflect improved brain development and improved brain health,’ DeCarli said.

‘A larger brain structure represents a larger brain reserve and may buffer the late-life effects of age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and related dementias.’

The brain growth in younger

generations could increase brain connectivity, the study said, which could lead to more accurate and efficient performances on tasks.

Yet, even as researchers report the brain is growing with each generation, Gen Z and Alpha’s IQs have dropped by at least two points, according to studies in Finland, France, the UK and other countries.

A 2023 study reported that IQ scores in the US have also dropped, but did not specify the exact drop, adding that the decrease could be due to disruptions to in-person learning during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The researchers also said the rise in social media use could be at fault, as skills like verbal reasoning, visual problem solving and numerical series tests have all gone down.

Academic and science presenter professor Jim Al-Khalili previously told Dailymail.com in 2022 that despite our ‘vastly increased scientific knowledge… the human brain hasn’t got bigger or more efficient or better than it was thousands of years ago.’

This is in direct contrast to the newest findings that the human brain is getting larger, but also raises the question of how cognitive development is increasing while gen Z and Alpha struggle to meet the same IQ levels as past generations. (Daily Mail)

first 20 years.

Food waste not only fuels climate change but may be exacerbated by it, the report said. Hotter countries were found to waste more food than cooler ones, as higher temperatures make it more challenging to store and transport food before it spoils.

The vast majority of food waste goes to landfill, generating methane as it breaks down. A potent greenhouse gas, methane has about 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide over the

The report also said food waste is not just a “rich world” phenomenon. The amount of food wasted in high- and middleincome countries differed by just 7 kilograms (15 pounds) per person each year. (BBC) CONTINUED

Science & Technology

More than one alcoholic drink a day raises heart disease risk for women

Young to middle-aged women who drink more than one alcoholic beverage a day, on average, were more likely to develop coronary heart disease than people who drink less, according to new research by Kaiser Permanente Northern California.

Women in the study who reported drinking eight or more alcoholic beverages per week were 33 to 51 percent more likely to develop coronary heart disease. And women who binge drink — three alcoholic beverages per day — were 68 percent more likely to develop coronary heart disease than those who drink in moderation, the research showed.

“There has been an increasing prevalence of alcohol use among young and middle-aged women as women may feel they’re protected against heart disease until they’re older, but this study shows that even in that age group, women who drink more than the recommended amount of one drink per day or tend to binge drink, are at risk for coronary heart disease,” Jamal Rana, a cardiologist with the Permanente Medical Group and the study’s lead author, wrote in an

email.

The study will be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session in early April. It was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

RISK IS HIGHEST FOR BINGE DRINKING

The study used data from 432,265 adults, ages 18 to 65, who received care in the Kaiser Permanente Northern California integrated health organization. The group was composed of about 243,000 men and 189,000 women who filled out routine assessments between 2014 and 2015 in which they reported their alcohol intake. Researchers then looked at the coronary heart disease diagnoses among participants over the four years that followed.

Participants were divided into three groups, according to their alcohol intake: low (one to two drinks per week), moderate (three to 14 drinks per week for men and three to seven drinks per week for women), or high (15 or more drinks

Women in the study who reported drinking eight or more alcoholic beverages per week were 33 to 51 percent more likely to develop coronary heart disease

per week for men and eight or more drinks per week for women).

Participants were also categorized as either engaging in binge drinking or not, with binge drinking being defined for men as having more than four drinks in a single day and for women as having more than three drinks a day, in the prior three months. Those who reported no alcohol use were not included.

During the four-year follow-up period, 3,108 participants were diagnosed with coronary heart disease. Higher levels of alcohol

consumption were associated with a higher incidence of coronary heart disease. Both men and women who reported heavy episodic drinking, or binge drinking, had the highest risk.

The link between alcohol and coronary heart disease proved to be especially strong among women, the data showed. Coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, is the most common type of heart disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The disease develops when the arteries of the heart are unable to deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart because of plaque buildup.

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of American women, according to the CDC. Symptoms differ, and often there are none until people suffer from a heart attack or other problem, a NIH report said.

“There has long been this idea that alcohol is good for the heart, but more and more evidence is challenging that notion,” Rana wrote. (Washington Post)

US farms are making an urgent push into AI; it could help feed the world

American farmers are rapidly ploughing ahead with adopting artificial intelligence. The technology is as sophisticated as it is essential.

Standing in a lush green field in the American Midwest, a farmer points his smartphone at one of his soybean plants. He snaps a photo of a pest crawling a leaf, then lets an AI-driven programme name the species of the bug, and whether it’s a cause for concern. Technology like this might sound like a novelty – but it is vital.

Across agriculture, a dearth of workers is threatening the viably of the industry, both in terms of profitably and crop yield. There simply are not enough hands to sustain the food systems that feed the world. This is particularly a problem in the US, which produces the third-largest agricultural output behind China and India.

One of the biggest issues is simple: farmers are getting older. Many can’t take on the sun-up-tosundown manual labour needed to effectively run a farm. And while many these operations have been

Drones are among the most widespread AI tools in use, but they’re only getting more sophisticated as technologists innovate

family-run for decades, younger generations aren’t taking the reins from their elders as they once did, instead opting for jobs in less labour-intensive, better-paying industries. The hired labourers who make up the rest of the agricultural workforce, largely immigrants, are following these patterns, too.

“Labour is the number one concern,” says Emily Buckman, director of government affairs at the American Farm Bureau Federation, an industry trade

association. “The average age of a farmer now is 60. Buckman herself grew up on a farm in Kentucky, where her 70-year-old father still works the soil, with only her brother to hlp him.

To solve the problem –especially as the worker pool is not only thinning but also getting more expensive, and crop yields are declining – some US farmers are looking to emerging robotics and AI tools. “We think about solutions to solving that problem, and we do

think that advances in technology could help ease some of the labour load,” says Buckman.

Artificial intelligence in agriculture is not wholly new: nascent iterations have been in use for two decades, like autosteering guidance systems to row crops such as corn. But AI takeup in the past few years has been swift; according to some estimates, 87% of businesses in the US agricultural industry were using AI in some shape or form as of late 2021. The federal government, too, is currently fast-tracking the agriculture industry towards the tech, providing financial incentives to speed up development and deployment of AI across the country.

If the push to adopt AI across the nearly two-million American farms succeeds, the implications for the rest of the world could be substantial. This is especially the case as the number of mouths to feed across the globe grows, and climate change threatens the agriculture ecosystems of some of the largest producers on Earth

– including the US itself, which exported more than $100bn (£78.9b) of products to China, Mexico, Canada and Europe last year alone.

The industry’s goal is to develop and adopt new technology on a mass scale that is both affordable and accessible “so that farmers can feed the world”, says Buckman.

“The world population is supposed to increase by two billion by 2050, which means we’re going to need to grow 70% more food than we do now. Innovative technology is going to help us do that.”

‘A GREAT DEAL OF PROMISE’

There is a lot of pressure for the agriculture industry to find solutions – and fast. The US labour shortage has already forced these operations to do more with less. But the urgency of the climate crisis is the tipping point. Erratic weather has made it more difficult to predict growing conditions, and is also hurting crop yields. In other words, hotter weather could lead to less food, sooner than expected.

Sports International

Messi says he hasn’t yet thought about when he will retire

Age, they say, is just a number – an adage that appears to ring true for soccer star Lionel Messi.

In an interview with the Big Time Podcast released on Wednesday, the 36-year-old Messi revealed that he doesn’t see his advancing years as an important factor in determining when to end his career.

He also said that he hasn’t considered when he might call time on his playing days, during which he has won the World Cup with Argentina, 10 La Liga and four Champions League titles with Barcelona and eight Ballon d’Or awards.

“The truth is I haven’t thought about it yet,” said Messi, who turns 37 in June. “Today, I try to enjoy it day-by-day, enjoy every moment without thinking about it more than that.

“I don’t have anything clear yet but to keep playing, which is what I’d like to do for a while longer. When the moment arrives, surely I’ll find the path to whatever fills me with joy and I enjoy and it’ll be a new role.”

These days, it’s not unusual for athletes to continue their careers into their late 30s and beyond, with Messi’s long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo still playing and scoring

Djokovic splits with coach Ivanisevic

World number one Novak Djokovic has split with coach Goran Ivanisevic.

Former Wimbledon champion Ivanisevic became Djokovic’s main coach in March 2022, having worked with him alongside longtime mentor Marian Vajda since 2018.

Serb Djokovic has won a jointrecord 24 Grand Slam singles titles but has made a disappointing start to 2024.

“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago,” Djokovic said on Instagram.

“Our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid.”

Djokovic lost in the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January, suffered a third-round defeat by world number 123 Luka Nardi at Indian Wells this month, then

goals aplenty for Portugal and Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr at the age of 39.

Messi joined MLS side Inter Miami last year and won the Leagues Cup – the first title in his new club’s history – in August. The team is currently second in the Eastern Conference standings having played six games this season.

Asked about what will factor

into his decision to retire, Messi said: “The moment that I’m not at the level to deliver, that I’m not enjoying it, that I’m not helping my teammates.

“Like I said before at the beginning, I’m very self-critical with myself. I know when I’m good or when I’m bad, when I play well or when I play badly, and when I feel that moment to take that step, I will without thinking

about my age.

“If I feel good, I will always keep trying to compete because it’s what I like and what I know how to do.”

Messi missed Argentina’s recent friendlies against El Savaldor and Costa Rica due to a hamstring injury. It’s unclear whether he will play a part in Inter Miami’s upcoming MLS game against New York City on Saturday. (BBC)

IPL 2024: Hyderabad hit highest total in tournament’s history

Sunrisers Hyderabad smashed 277-3 - the highest total in Indian Premier League history - in a record-breaking 31-run victory against Mumbai Indians.

Opener Travis Head hit 62 from 24 balls, Abhishek Sharma a 23ball 63 and Heinrich Klaasen 80 not out from 34.

withdrew from the ongoing Miami Open, citing a need to balance his “private and professional schedule”.

“I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team. It was back in 2018, and Marian and I were looking to innovate and bring some serve magic to our duo,” Djokovic said.

“In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year end no1 rankings, record breaking achievements and 12 more Grand Slams (and a few finals) to the count since then. Did I mention a bit of drama too?”

Croat Ivanisevic was nominated for the ATP Coach of the Year in 2023, having helped Djokovic to three of the four Grand Slam titles.

Djokovic shares the record for Grand Slam singles titles with Margaret Court.

They took Sunrisers beyond the previous IPL record, Royal Challengers Bangalore’s 263-5 in 2013.

Mumbai made a decent fist of the chase, making the match the highest-scoring T20 in history, but ended on 246-5.

Sunrisers’ total was also the fourth highest in any men’s T20 and the highest in a T20 franchise tournament.

The men’s T20 record is held by Nepal, who scored 314-3 against Mongolia last year. Afghanistan made 278-3 against Ireland in 2019 while the Czech Republic posted 278-4 against Hungary later that year.

The previous record in a franchise tournament was Melbourne Stars’ 273-2 against Hobart Hurricanes in the Australian Big Bash in 2022.

Australia international Head was dropped on five and raced to

Abhishek Sharma’s 16-ball fifty was the fastest for Sunrisers in the IPL

a 18-ball fifty as he put on 68 in 23 balls with Abhishek, after the loss of Mayank Agarwal for 11.

Abhishek then reached his fifty two balls quicker - thrashing three fours and seven sixes - before being dismissed at the end of the 11th over with the Sunrisers 1613.

The scoring slowed slightly as Klaasen joined Aiden Markram but the pair took 75 from the last five overs to end with an unbroken

partnership of 116 from 55 balls. Markram ended on 42 not out from 28 balls.

South African left-armer Kwena Maphaka, 17, conceded 66 in four wicketless overs on debut. There were 18 sixes and 19 fours in Sunrisers’ innings and a T20 record 38 sixes in the match.

Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan took Mumbai to 50-0 in three overs before Kishan holed out for 34 and Rohit 26.

Goran Ivanisevic (right) coached Marin Cilic, Tomas Berdych and Milos Raonic before Novak Djokovic (left)

Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami last year

Sports International

Formula 1: Carlos Sainz wins Australian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen retires

Carlos Sainz led Charles Leclerc to a Ferrari one-two in the Australian Grand Prix as Max Verstappen’s domination of Formula 1 stalled.

Sainz swept by the world champion’s Red Bull into the lead on the second lap before the Dutchman retired with a brake failure after just four laps.

The Spaniard then controlled the race as Leclerc passed McLaren’s Lando Norris in the first pit-stop period.

The race ended under a virtual safety car after a crash for George Russell.

Chasing Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin for sixth place, the Mercedes driver lost control at Turn Six on the final lap and suffered a crash, the car coming to rest on its side, held up in the air by landing on its left-front wheel. Russell was unhurt.

Alonso and Russell were called to the stewards, who penalised the Spaniard 20 seconds, dropping him to eighth place, and gave him three penalty points on his licence for what stewards said driving “in a manner that was at very least ‘potentially dangerous’ given the very high speed nature of that point of the track”.

Alonso admitted slowing too early and then accelerating again before braking, but said he got the manoeuvre “slightly wrong”.

It was a difficult end to a sobering day for Mercedes, on which their status as also-rans was apparently confirmed - Lewis Hamilton retired after 16 laps with Flamengo and Brazil striker Gabriel Barbosa has been suspended for two years for attempted antidoping fraud.

Local media have reported that the 27-year-old, known as ‘Gabigol’, made it difficult to carry out an anti-doping test the day before a game.

Barbosa, who has played 18 times for his country, denies the allegations.

“I have never attempted to obstruct or defraud any test, and I trust that I will be cleared by the higher court,” he said in a post on X.

“Since the beginning of my career as a footballer, I have always followed the rules of the game and never used banned substances. I have been subjected to dozens of tests, all of which have always

Verstappen last retired at the Australian Grand Prix in 2022

an engine failure.

Norris led Oscar Piastri to a McLaren three-four ahead of Red Bull’s Sergio Perez, anonymous on a day on which he was unable to capitalise on Verstappen’s retirement.

SAINZ IN TOTAL CONTROL

In front of a record Melbourne crowd of 132,106 - and a weekend high of 452,055 - Sainz was in imperious form, just 16 days after having surgery to remove his appendix that forced him to miss the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

The 29-year-old - who has been describing the “weird” feeling of “everything in the inside just feels

like it’s moving more than normal” after his operation - tracked Verstappen around the opening lap. And after Verstappen made a mistake at Turn Three on the second lap, Sainz was able to pass the Red Bull down the curving ‘straight’ to Turns Nine and 10. Verstappen immediately came on the radio to say he had “lost the rear - weird”, and before long it was apparent why.

A lap later, he swore over the radio and said: “The car is loose.” And a lap after that smoke started to pour from his right rear wheel. Verstappen slowed down and as he entered the pit lane, with his brakes now on fire, a clump of

material flew out of his wheel on to the grass.

Underlining the strength of Red Bull in the last two years, it was his first retirement since this race two years ago. It left Sainz in control and he never showed any indication he would let the grand prix out of his grasp.

Sainz was the only non-Red Bull driver to win last year, when he triumphed in Singapore in a race that ended with him holding off a train of cars featuring Norris, Lewis Hamilton and Russell.

Now he has become the man to end Verstappen’s chances of equalling his own record of

winning 10 races in a row - and just three races into a season he started knowing he would lose his seat at Ferrari at the end of it to Hamilton.

Sainz had Leclerc’s measure from the start of qualifying and was never under threat in the race.

He took advantage of Leclerc being stuck behind Norris in the first stint to build an advantage.

Ferrari brought Leclerc in for a relatively early stop on lap nine to undercut him past Norris, a strategy that succeeded when the McLaren stopped five laps later and emerged behind the Ferrari.

Sainz stopped on lap 16 and emerged just a second ahead of his team-mate, slowly building an advantage that extended to nearly nine seconds before Leclerc made his second stop.

A good day for McLaren but not for Perez

Norris was unable to do anything about the Ferraris, but it was nonetheless a strong weekend for McLaren.

The same could not be said for Perez, who complained about Red Bull’s decision to run him long on the first stint.

Perez was able to pass Russell and Alonso but once in front of the Spaniard, a tear-off strip from another driver’s visor became caught in his floor, in a position Red Bull said disrupted the airflow sufficiently to cost him a significant amount of downforce. After that, he could do nothing about the McLarens ahead.

been negative.

“I am disappointed with the outcome of the judgement, but I will continue co-operating with the sporting authorities and trust that my innocence will be proven and re-established by the higher court.”

Barbosa, who was part of Brazil’s gold medal-winning squad at the 2016 Rio Olympics, can appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The Brazilian Doping Control Authority said: “The aforementioned athlete was judged by the Anti-Doping Sports Court of Justice and, by a majority vote, it was decided that a violation of the anti-doping rule of attempted fraud had occurred.”

The two-year ban starts from the date of violation, which occurred

surprised by the verdict and would help the player with an appeal.

“(The club) will assist the athlete in presenting an appeal to CAS, since it understands that there was no fraud, not even an attempt, to justify the punishment applied,” they said in a statement.

Barbosa signed for Flamengo on a permanent deal in 2020 after a successful loan spell from Inter Milan, where he only played nine times in four years.

The forward scored the winning goal in the 2022 Copa Libertadores final - South America’s version of the Champions League - in a 1-0 win over fellow Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense.

Barbosa made his Brazil debut in a 2-0 friendly win over Panama in May 2016 and has scored five international goals. (BBC)

Gabriel Barbosa has scored 143 goals in 261 games for Flamengo

Flamengo striker Barbosa suspended

fraud

Sports International

Former Formula 1 boss

Briatore has heart surgery

Ex-Renault Formula 1 boss and former Queens Park Rangers co-owner Flavio Briatore has undergone heart surgery to remove a benign tumour.

The Italian, 73, said he has been discharged from hospital in Milan following the operation.

Briatore said on Instagram the surgery had been “perfectly successful”.

“Following a routine check-up I underwent heart surgery because I had a benign mass which was removed with a minimal invasive procedure,” he said.

Businessman Briatore was

managing director of Benetton when Michael Schumacher won the F1 drivers championship in 1994 and 1995.

He was also in charge of Renault when Fernando Alonso also took the title in 2005 and 2006 but left amid the ‘Crashgate’ scandal.

He has not held an official position in F1 since but has been present at grands prix in recent years.

The Italian co-owned QPR between 2007 and 2010, having bought into the west-London club alongside Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal. (BBC)

Tonali charged by FA for alleged betting rules breaches after joining Newcastle

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association for alleged breaches of betting rules.

The 23-year-old is currently serving a 10-month ban issued by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in October for breaking betting rules in Italy.

Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan in July for £55m.

The FA alleges Tonali broke its rules by placing 50 bets on matches between 12 August and 12 October 2023.

Tonali was banned by the FIGC for betting on matches involving his teams Brescia and Milan, and Fifa later granted the Italian federation’s request to have the ban extended worldwide.

The FA charges relate to separate allegations during Tonali’s time as a Newcastle player.

“Newcastle United acknowledges a misconduct charge received by Sandro Tonali in respect of alleged breaches of FA Betting Rules,” the club said on Thursday.

“Sandro continues to fully comply with relevant investigations and he retains the club’s full support.”

His current ban means Tonali is not eligible to play again until August and will not feature at Euro 2024.

The Italy international, who was fined 20,000 euros (£17,380), was initially given an 18-month

Sandro Tonali is Newcastle’s second most expensive signing

ban which was reduced after he agreed to take part in an eightmonth “therapeutic plan” to help “recovery from gambling addiction”.

That will include Tonali making at least 16 public appearances in Italy, where he will be expected to speak to young players about the dangers of gambling.

Although he is unable to play in any matches, Tonali can train alongside his Newcastle teammates during his ban.

Tonali, who has until 5 April to respond to the FA’s charges, had only made 12 appearances

for Eddie Howe’s side before his suspension was imposed.

Last year Brentford striker Ivan Toney was given an eight-month for 232 breaches of the FA’s betting rules. He returned in January.

Former England and Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson, who says he was a “compulsive gambler” during his career, called Tonali and Toney’s bans a “disgrace”.

“To give people 10-month bans for an addiction that is ravaging football, with sponsorships all over the shirts... They needed help and I don’t think ‘help’ is giving them 10-month bans,” he said. (BBC)

Chelsea: Raheem Sterling ‘understands’ boos – Mauricio

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino says it is important that the club’s fans and players “move on” after Raheem Sterling was booed by supporters.

Sterling faced criticism from sections of the Stamford Bridge crowd during Chelsea’s 4-2 win over Leicester City in the recent FA Cup quarter-final.

Pochettino was jeered for his decision to substitute Mykhailo Mudryk instead of Sterling in the 78th minute.

“We now need to move on. It will help if we do,” said Pochettino.

“What we cannot do is create bigger things from this now because we know fans love our players and I know they will support him and the rest of the team.

“Raheem is a spirited player and he understands it all.”

Pochettino’s Chelsea will have

Pochettino

blazed a free-kick well over the crossbar in the second half, which prompted jeers among the home crowd.

Before the match, Chelsea Supporters’ Trust raised “significant concerns” about the club’s future in a lengthy letter to co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali.

It said there was growing concern that Chelsea are becoming “a ‘laughing stock’, both on and off the pitch”.

“We need to be careful in the way we talk and give our opinions because there needs to be a strong relationship between everyone,” said Pochettino.

“I just want our players to play really well. I was also suffering the anger of the fans and their disappointment; in fact, the whole team suffered in this situation.” (BBC)

Raheem Sterling missed a first-half penalty against Leicester

home advantage against lowly Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday, when supporters will expect another victory.

Sterling missed a first-half penalty against Leicester and

Briatore was pictured at the Bahrain Grand Prix earlier this month

Sports National

Coach Ford optimistic of podium finishes at CARIFTA Games

Head Coach of the 2024 CARIFTA Games team, Randy Ford, is optimistic that the TCI can register podium finishes when they compete from March 30 to April 1 in St George, Grenada.

During an invited comment this week, the senior coach said that “We will give our best as we represent the hopes of the TCI as a people and as a brand…We are optimistic of achieving podium finishes and several finalists and we are appreciative of the over 30 supporters, who have invested resources in travelling all the way to Grenada to lend support.

The senior coach is also looking forward to sharing the stage with a former athlete of his, now assistant coach, Courtney Missick.

“This CARIFTA Games feels special to me sharing the coaching responsibilities with Courtney Missick, who made multiple CARIFTA teams and who I have had the chance to coach for CARIFTA, World Relays and two Commonwealth Games. This represents growth in the TCI track and field and one day soon, there will be a changing of the guards.”

A new generation of athletes are also making their way to the

Games this year. Coach Ford said that there are younger athletes with big potential, “most of whom will still be under 17 next year”.

“The older athletes make up the smaller portion of the team three of whom scored points in Champs in Jamaica last year and two are medallist from last year’s team.”

A total of 20 athletes will represent the TCAAA at the Games.

The Walkin brothers, Antwon and Rayvon, who were instrumental in Kingston College retaining the Mortimer Geddes Trophy at Champs for their 35

overall title, are expected to lead the U20 Boys Division, which also includes the likes of Bernard Hyde (Quality Athletics), Xavier Joseph (HJRHS), Renaldo Registre (RGHS), Kyle Belazaire (MBHS) and Melique Evans (CHHS).

There are three dominant U20 girls: Roniesha Joseph (Excelsior High School, Jamaica), Tanesia Gardiner (Edwin Allen High School, Jamaica) and Irener Moline (MBHS).

The U17 division includes the likes of Rayvon Black (Denbigh High School in Jamaica), the overall champion boy at Inter-

High, Love Joseph (CHHS), Ali Eliasu (ALGTHS), Shagarion Mills (WMHS) and Deans Saints Hilaire (ALGTHS).

The U17 Girls are Krysanne Williams (CHHS), Chloe Jennings (WMHS), Tanaire Gardiner (ALGTHS/Quality Athletics), Eunice Missick (ALGTHS) and Kelandy King (ALGTHS).

The Team Manager/ Chaperone is Rosalie Ingham-Hall.

Other travelling officials are the TCAAA President Edith Skippings, Nekoda Fulford and Owen Roberts.

Anguilla edged past TCI by the slimmest of margins when the two teams battled in the twomatch series in the CONCACAF Qualifiers. After a 0-0 battle last week, the two teams managed to find themselves locked in another tied clash at 1-1 before penalties decided the winner. TCI’s most decorated footballer, Billy Forbes scored in the 23rd, while in the second half,

Coach Ford (left) and a number of the TCI athletes prior to leaving Provo this week

WALKIN CAPTAINS KINGSTON COLLEGE TO CHAMPS

TITLE

– STARTS RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR 2025

Antwon Walkin is not just a big deal in the TCI—he is also big in Jamaica where he captained his school, Kingston College (KC), to their 35th title at the ISSA/ Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls Championship this week.

KC secured 335 points to defeat 22-time champion Jamaica College by 57 points.

After the win, Walkin spoke to his schoolmates and encouraged them to join the team to ensure that the title stays in the school in 2025. He also told NationWide on 90FM in Jamaica that although he has been on the two previous winning teams (2022 and 2023), “this championship was special, number 35, it signifies just how great Kingston College is”…it has been a great ride…always great to go out on top”.

On social media, the TCIslander said that KC was a second home away from the TCI.

“It’s an honor to wear the colors of this school as Deputy Headboy and Co-Captain of the track and field team.

People don’t always talk about the sacrifices that come with winning, that’s because for the most part, they are always worth it. The 3Peat is Complete. I will never forget champs the biggest junior stage in the world. I’m continuing my journey of audacious excellence for my school, my family and my country.”

NATIONAL RECORD

At the event, Walkin broke his national U20 Boys discus record.

His top throw of 54.25m landed him in fifth place and eclipsed the 54.0m he made at the McKenley/ Wint Track and Field Classic in January, 2024.

Walkin’s twin Rayvon, was also outstanding for Kingston College. He became the second boy, behind Wikenson Fenelon, to take part and medal in the decathlon (10 events).

For his exploits, Rayvon finished with a silver medal and 5,793 points.

The brothers will represent TCI at the CARIFTA Games in Grenada in the coming days.

Anguilla progress after beating TCI on penalties ...

to

Both

Antwon Walkin with the Mortimer Geddes Trophy

Rayvon Walkin became only the second Turks and Caicos Islands athlete to medal in the decathlon (10 events)

Anguilla evened the score.

sides had opportunities, but in the end, the visitors won 4-3 on penalties, which propelled them to advance

the second round of the qualifiers, where they will take on El Salvador, Suriname, Puerto Rico and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.