TC Weekly News May 6 - 12, 2023

TCI integrates green and gender impacts in new budget

BY DELANA ISLES

The appropriations committee is currently reviewing the draft estimates for Fiscal Year 2023 to 2024, laid in the House of Assembly on April 26, by the Minister of Finance, Hon Erwin Jay Saunders.

Contained within the document are several new features, as well as new ways of conducting the budget process with ministries, departments and agencies.

Saunders told members that the territory’s budget now consists of two volumes. Volume one entails: the budget summaries, the programme performance information, human resources details, capex, debt summaries, and the estimates for constitutional and other statutory bodies.

Volume II, he said, provides the supporting details by account codes.

He noted that key performance indicators within the budget are now aligned to the ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs); namely: mission, strategic priorities, the UN strategic development goals indicators and targets, and the government’s vision 2040 strategic planning document.

“To support this undertaking, the Ministry of Finance conducted multiple training sessions with the MDAs which took place during the budget planning phases.

“I am happy to say that over 150 participants across government and statutory bodies took part in this training.”

GREEN AND GENDER BUDGETING

He added that starting this financial year, and going forward, MDAs will report on the gender and green impacts of their programmes as the government continues to adopt Green and Gender budgeting.

In 2022, the government invited the Caribbean Regional Training Assistance Centre (CARTAC) to conduct training sessions with civil servants on integrating green and gender budgeting into the territory’s annual budget process. This fiscal year 2023-2024 sees the introduction of this process.

As reported last year when the initiative was first introduced, green budgeting integrates climate and environmental perspectives into budget planning and decisionmaking, including policies that address climate mitigation and adaptation.

While gender budgeting acknowledges that fiscal policies and budget decisions can help close the gender gap and promote gender equality. It requires designing and delivering policies, services and projects to consider gender-based needs and factors.

The key benefits of green and gender budgeting include: providing better and more relevant

information to support budget policy decision-making; stronger collaboration across the whole government on gender and climate issues; targeted policies and programmes that better align with the government’s priorities; having a clearer focus on performance through the provision of sexdisaggregated data on programme output and outcomes and government programme’s climate and gender impacts and policy analysis that addresses fiscal risks

from climate change.

Saunders told the House: “Gender budgeting helps to achieve gender equality. Our girls, sisters, mothers, and all women in the Turks and Caicos Islands, now and in the future, will thank us for this.”

He added: “I am proud to inform this Honourable House that the Turks and Caicos Islands, with the support of CARTAC, TCI is the first country to implement this important public financial

management reform in the Caribbean region.”

He said it is expected that the government’s approach for reporting Green and Gender key performance indicators will be used as a model by other countries in the region.

“Our government's policies and priorities for FY 2023/24 are designed to allow us to continue delivering on the citizen's contract: achieving social, economic, and environmental progress for all.”

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Attorney General, Honourable Mrs. Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles OBE KC was recently sworn in as Acting Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands for the period of May 2 - 15, 2023.

The Attorney General will take up the mantle as Acting Governor in the absence of Her Excellency the Governor (Acting), Mrs Anya Williams MBE who departed the islands on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, alongside Premier Hon C. Washington Misick to join members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment as well as the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force in London for King Chares III’s coronation on Saturday, May 6. Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles was sworn in on 28th April 2023, according to a statement from the Governor’s Office.

The Attorney General’s appointment is in accordance with section 26(1) (b) of the Constitution.

Hon Braithwaite Knowles OBE KC swears the Oath Allegiance and Oath for Due Execution of Office in the presence of HE Governor (Acting) Anya Williams MBE.

Her Excellency Acting Governor Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles OBE KC

Attorney General sworn in as Acting Governor

Government rakes in historic $417.8m in revenue

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government has earned a historic $417.8 million in revenue from accommodation taxes, import duties, and other sources which will fund its 2023/2024 budget expenditures.

The monies received from existing revenue streams will support 98.4% of the Government’s 2023/2024 planned expenditure which is set at $424.3 and the remaining 1.6% - i.e. the projected Operating Deficit of $6.6 million will be funded from Cash Reserves, according to the Minister of Finance, Investment, and Trade, Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders.

During his draft budget presentation in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, April 26, Saunders said that based on the economic forecast of the islands the $417m revenue is 1.1% higher than the (unaudited) actuals of financial year FY2022/23 which was a staggering ($413.2 million).

He said: “The first time these islands have ever achieved greater than $400m in revenues, although the (unaudited) actuals for FY2021/22 came in close with $398.8m.

“5.6% higher than the

original budget for financial year FY2022/23 ($395.7m).”

The massive revenue was credited to the overperformance in FY 2022/2023 from revenue streams from the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services (Import Duties and Customs Processing Fees).

Coupled with this, millions were also collected from the Ministry of Finance, Investment & Trade (accommodation tax, seaport departure tax and excess revenues) and the Ministry of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, Heritage, Religious Affairs, and the Environment (gaming machine tax).

He explained that this performance has given the government the “leeway and confidence” to invest heavily in programmes and initiatives that will foster the growth and development of the territory.

Saunders further highlighted key areas of focus that the funds will be geared to, this includes Inflation and Cost of Living Containment, Destination Management Reform, Public Sector Reform, Preservation and Enhancement of National Security, Population & Migration Policy Reform, Primary Sector Development, Housing &

Crown Land Management Reform, Critical Infrastructure (Re) Development and Human Capital Development.

REVENUE BREAKDOWN

Breaking down the total revenues, Saunders said the territory’s Recurrent Revenue is $414.9m, and Non-Recurrent Revenue is $2.9m, while grants from external donors and capital receipts accounted for $1.3m, and $1.6m respectively.

He said: “Mr. Speaker, I am happy to inform this Honourable House that the revenue projections for FY2023/24 include no new taxes.”

RECURRENT REVENUE

Turning his attention to the Government’s recurrent revenue streams, Saunders explained that Accommodation Tax brought in $106.5m, while Import Duties brought in $98.5m.

He added that: “Other Customs Duties= $35.0m, Work Permit and Other Immigration Fees = $36.8m, Business and Banking Related Receipts =$6.5m, Stamp Duty on Land Transactions = $58.3m, Ports and Sea Travel taxes = $17.4m, Vehicle & Driver Licence Fees = $6.8m, Fuel Tax = $8.5m, and Other Receipts = $40.4m.”

Dock Yard man killed in major highway pile-up

Thirty-four-year-old Jason Alexander Robinson is the territory’s first road fatality for the year, after colliding with several vehicles along Leeward Highway. Police reported that around 12

noon, on May 1, officers responded to the scene after calls were received by 911 operators.

Investigations reveal that a silver Toyota Altezza, driven by Robinson was proceeding on

the westbound lane along the Leeward Highway, in the vicinity of FortisTCI, when the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with another vehicle.

The silver Altezza crossed the

median and collided with two other vehicles including a truck.

The victim was rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where he was treated for several injuries sustained from the

accident. Robinson, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries the following day, May 2, at around 5:30 am.

The Traffic Enforcement Unit is continuing investigations.

Minister of Finance, Investment, and Trade Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders said “This is the first $400m plus in revenues”.

One of the vehicles the silver Altezza, driven by the deceased man, collided with (RTCIPF photo)

Multiple vehicle collision leaves one dead (RTCIPF photo)

THE DMO AND GOVERNMENT PREDICTIONS

According to Premier Washington Misick, the Turks and Caicos Islands Destination Marketing and Management Organisation (DMO) is taking shape, and last week the government shared with the public more information about the make-up and financing of the public-private venture.

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

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

He further explained that the financial model will be based on the co-financing of the annual budget by both the public and private tourism stakeholders. The generation of revenue through DMO activities, he noted, will be an important source of income. Misick said the territory will go from normal growth to exceptional performance in the tourism industry. He added that the increased wealth is estimated at $640m- a sum that considers direct, indirect and induced economic impacts, compared to business as per usual without the DMO out of that $640m, the direct economic impact on hotels and restaurants will be $467m, and a $173m of indirect and induced economic impact.

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

What are your thoughts?

Little hope or trust

There is little hope or trust from the litany of promises made by this government about the benefits for the economy that any significant trickle-down effect will fall onto the Turks & Caicos Islander.

During the debate on the Service Charge benefit when the former PDM Government passed a law that 100% of the service charge should go to the worker, the PNP Opposition fought the measure tooth and nail, lockstep with the Hotel Association, TCHTA, the Grace Bay Mafia, to oppose the idea. Now that they are in office they are showing far more than any government has ever done to abandon control of the TCI’s number industry to that self-same private sector.

This is concerning to the Turks & Caicos Islander for so many reasons. Already the "TCIslander" feels replaced, removed and totally out of the control of His leading industry. Now they are going to hand control of tourism from a government-owned tourist

Silent backbenchers

This is an economic and political gamble on the part of the government. They bank on the idea that the next election is in 2025 and that the public will have a short memory then, they can always take monies, bribes, handouts, etc. to ensure that the voter forgets how he was sold out in his own country ad that that people will “always forget”.

Yet this is something that is fatal to the self-image of the TCIslander in his own country. Curiously no cabinet minister, backbencher or appointed member has broken ranks with the government on this issue. Either they are told to be quiet, do not understand the issue or simply do not care. They are not out there supporting or decrying the decision.

plan or latter day restructuring the same could be applied to the tourist board. Being a statutory entity, created by law, the tourist board could have taken on a new business plan and entered into Joint ventures with private sector entity but getting rid of the “whole cow” is sheer madness.

The Minister of Finance making a comparison to the Apple computer product is hapless, misguided, clueless and pales in comparison to getting rid of the entire tourism administration. It is too esoteric and unreal. The economic growth projections do not promise anything for the man on the street. The idea to go private is unprecedented and one that this Government will regret enormously.

board to a wholly owned Private Sector Destination Management Organisation (the DMO). This is going too far towards an abdication of responsibility. Despite the press conference held by the Premier, the public remains in the dark about critical and salient features of this DMO. Have they displayed any terms of reference to the public? What about the instruments creating the entity?

Who will hire the new staff, who will interview them and what about financial control? Too much about the DMO is akin to “Heat in the Night” and the people who matter most in the Turks & Caicos Islanders, the TCI native, know little if “nothing” about this DMO. This is globalism at its finest where the people of a country have little say and control over how their country is run. It is a massive sell-out of the TCIslander and his vital interest in the tourism industry. This will mark the end of this current government. It is simply just not a good idea.

Their silence speaks volumes and in light of the negative reaction from the public, it’s loud that they oppose the decision but have decided to fall in line with the high command to “shut up”. Being part of a 14seat parliament with one elected opposition official, this crop of backbenchers of the PNP government have an absolute duty and obligation to speak out on this most critical of issues. How could they remain silent and watch the government sell out the tourist board and that age-old legacy of administering tourism in the TCI?

They cannot rely on the debate of the Leader of the Opposition, his defence of the tourist board and outgoing staff. More needs to be said and this must come from the PNP back bench. The escaping promises made by the Premier cannot justify this major sell-out.

Apple computer comparison clueless

There is little to "nothing" that this proposed Destination Management Organisation (DMO) could do that the tourist board was not capable of. If there was any business

Already the job opportunities in the private sector are held for the outsider. Grace Bay is so consolidated with money that very little economic opportunity will go to the TCIslander. The promises made by the Premier are too wide and will fall out of the native community. So far from what the public can see, the stakeholders are not "them" but other people. This is the pattern of Grace Bay and will be the same mode that will prevail under the DMO.

Give it a chance

We can talk all day, but nothing is going to happen. The DMO is here to stay, at least in the interim, we are a voting population with the capacity to enact needed change.

Let’s give them a chance.

This will either be a brilliant decision or a colossal failure—time would tell.

Government unveils $424.3m budget – Aims to achieve social, economic, and environmental progress for all

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government has unveiled a colossal $424.3 million draft national budget for the 2023/2024 fiscal year, aimed at “achieving social, economic, and environmental progress for all”.

Minister of Finance Investment & Trade Hon Erwin Saunders, who recently laid the draft Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for Financial Year 2023/2024 on the table of the House for review by the Appropriations Committee, emphasised that the national budget is designed to make real impacts that complement the programmes and initiatives outlined in the “Citizens’ Contract”.

Speaking in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, April 26,

2023, Saunders presented what he termed a “sophomore budget”.

The $424.3m budget is made up of Recurrent Expenditure of $348.1m, Non-Recurrent Expenditure of $11.8m, and Proposed Capital Development Expenditure of $64.4m.

He further explained that Total Expenditure of $424.3m is 18% higher than the (unaudited) actuals of financial year FY2022/23 ($359.5m), while Capital Development Expenditure of $64.4m is a whopping 254% higher than the (unaudited) actuals of financial year FY2022/23 ($18.2 m).

Saunders told the House of Assembly that existing revenue streams will support 98.4% of the aforementioned planned Expenditure.

“The remaining 1.6% - i.e. the projected Operating Deficit of $6.6m – will be funded from Cash Reserves”, he added.

The budget debate is expected to get underway on the 16th of May 2023.

ECONOMIC AFFAIRS

As it relates to the territory’s Economic Affairs for FY23/24, the Government is proposing to spend $88.9m (21% of the budgeted expenditure).

This will see monies being spent on Infrastructure development such as land acquisition, tourism product enhancement, agriculture, catastrophic risk insurance, environmental and coastal resources, energy and utilities, and communications, the Finance Minister informed.

PUBLIC ORDER AND SAFETY

Saunders further revealed that the government is earmarking $86.6m (20% of the budgeted expenditure) for spending on improving public order and the safety of residents and visitors.

This includes police services, law courts, AG Chambers, Director of Public Prosecution, judicial administration, and the labour tribunal, public order, customs and border protection, immigration, and repatriations, prisons, correctional, and rehabilitation services and fire and rescue.

HEALTH

A whopping $84.6m (20% of the

expenditure for FY2022/23) is allocated for Health Care Delivery. He said: “The nation's health continues to be a significant priority of our government. To this end, monies will be spent on public health and hospital services, mental health, research, health emergencies, dental, laboratory services, promotion of healthy lifestyles, and policy planning.

GENERAL PUBLIC SERVICES

Additionally, 17% of the budgeted expenditure which amounts to $69.9m has been allocated to support the general public service

CONTINUED  12

TCI leaders to witness King Charles III's historic Coronation

Leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands will join other heads of state and representatives from many British allies and Commonwealth nations to witness the historic crowning of King Charles III.

For the first time in TCI’s history, the territory will be represented by a Turks and Caicos Islander governor.

Her Excellency Anya Williams,

Governor (Acting) and the Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick will lead a delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands to attend the epoch-making Coronation of His Majesty, The King, Charles III on Saturday, 6th May 2023, according to a statement from the Government.

Ten Turks and Caicos Islands regiment officers and two officers from the Royal Turks and Caicos

Islands Police Force will also represent the Turks and Caicos Islands as they will form part of the military personnel for the King’s coronation ceremony.

The Coronation is centred on a solemn religious ceremony that has remained largely unchanged for over 1,000 years.

This historic ceremony will occur at Westminster Abbey, London, and

will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

During the ceremony, the King will be crowned with the solid gold, 17th Century St Edward's Crown, alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort.

The Queen Consort will be crowned with Queen Mary's Crown.

At the end of the service, the new King will exchange his crown

for the Imperial State Crown, or Crown of State.

This is the first coronation in 70 years following the passing of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in September of 2022.

A bank holiday will be observed on Monday, 8th May in celebration of His Majesty, King Charles III’s ascension to the throne.

King Charles III

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Her Excellency Anya Williams, Governor (Acting)

Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Investment & Trade Hon Erwin Saunders

Hold your tongue and control your ears and hands

You see and hear some things, but practice confidentiality unless it is illegal

Sometimes, we come across information either by seeing it or hearing it. However, some of us cannot keep that information to ourselves, we quickly spread it to other individuals. Sometimes the information is true and sometimes it is inaccurate, but whether it is true or not, we must learn to be confidential. Of course, this does not apply to situations that are illegal such as knowing information about criminal activities or other wrongful situations such as sexual abuse and rape. I believe you should not remain confidential when it comes to these situations, and you should report illegal and wrongful acts. I am referring to company information and people’s other personal information that you may see or hear. Proverbs 17:9 states that “Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

separates close friends.

Too many times people share information with you in confidence but rather than keeping that information to yourself, you share it with others. A common thing many like to say is, “I am going to tell you something but don’t repeat it.” Soon everybody will hear the information because Jane will tell John, then John tells Mary, and it goes on and on. I remembered there was a voice note that a friend shared with another friend.

Soon that voice note became viral because the other “friend” shared it with somebody. The sad thing is that everybody recognised that person’s voice. That person never expected their friend to forward that voice note to someone else. Even in some organisation, some employees are not confidential. They come across information that does not involve them and they spread it like wildfire. It is unprofessional and unethical to spread company information.

The thing is people have a way of finding out who spread the information. The spreading of information can lead to the breakup of friendship and family, and it also says a lot about your integrity and trustworthiness.

Because of a lack of confidentiality, information gets in the public domain and individuals and companies must rush and try to do damage control.

Sometimes, you need to walk away from situations. Don’t entertain any gossip or news because you will be tempted to spread it to others. If you know someone that likes to talk about other people, stay away from them because you may end up getting involved in the situation.

I also want to encourage you to control your hands. With social media, particularly WhatsApp and emails, it is so easy to forward information to others. If you get

a message involving confidential information, please don’t forward it. I know of an incident whereby someone accidentally forwarded the information to the person they were talking about. It was very embarrassing.

In conclusion, I know it is very hard to remain confidential but how would you feel if someone did it to you? You would be hurt and feel betrayed. If you don’t want anyone to reveal your information, then you should learn to hold your tongue, control your ears and your hands with other people’s information that you come across.

Due to the lack of trust and lack of confidentiality, companies and individuals withhold information from others.

Why do you think some people don’t tell you anything? Why do you think some people do not want to hire you? It is because you cannot be trusted.

The coming of 'the singularity'

The political and economic implications for the TCI

Machine learning technology is developing at the speed of light – at a pace faster than society can comprehend. While these technological advances promise to change the nature of human civilization, in many other ways it is not so benevolent.

Today, futurists believe that we are rapidly entering a hypothetical epoch at which technological proliferation reaches a point –uncontrollable and irreversible – with powerful, intelligent technologies that would radically and unpredictably transform reality, dubbed “the singularity.”

Although “singularity” was coined by Hungarian-American mathematician, John von Neumann

BY D MARKIE SPRING

in the 1950s, it was Ray Kurzweil, inventor and futurist, in his 2005 book, “When Human Transcends Biology,” who embraced the term. In it he narrates artificial intelligence (AI), the future of humanity, and cites the major impacts across industries.

Kurzweil recounted his “law of accelerating returns,” which

signals an exponential surge in technologies driven by three interconnected technological revolutions: genetics, nanotechnology and AI.

Once “the singularity” has arrived, machine intelligence will infinitely be more powerful and efficient than human intelligence – a kind of brainpower, which will emit outward from the planet until it infuses the universe, he says!

As these technologies continue to develop and converge, man’s physical and cognitive abilities will likely increase and ultimately merge with machines, ushering in a new era of post-human civilization. Such a breakthrough is bound to impact the TCI and if legislators refuse to advance with the world, this is deemed primitive and looking at it from the macro-

economic perspective the nation’s classical economy model will suffer tremendously, as computers become more efficient and shrewd than humans.

The singularity would glaringly increase productivity and growth, and prices will drop significantly, as computers can produce goods and services at a fraction of the price and time compared to humans.

Additionally, high unemployment will ensue, dwarfing the 25 percent unemployment during the early 20th century Great Depression and engender unprecedented deflationary pressures, overshadowing the 7 percent drop during that historic period. Besides, the singularity will certainly ignite strong economic growth cycles, outstripping the 6.9 percent economic growth following WWII.

Coupled with this, microeconomic effects will be felt, spawning a corporate downtrend. The services industry, including banks and other financial service companies, will be disrupted and mainstream media companies will become obsolete, as AI can now write articles, when prompted.

Long-established retail firms will lose out, because of a dearth of personalised shopping experiences.

The speed of technological change has exceeded the expectations of many and already, we’re witnessing mild economic impacts emerging inside Big Tech companies.

So, I ask, how should the Government respond to these quantum leaps? The answer to this question is complex and requires rigorous analysis and thinking outside the box.

Nevertheless, policymakers must train workers in new skills to bridge the unemployment gap. In addition to, redesigning workflow – implementing a 4-day work week with full pay, as reduced pay will certainly fuel deflation.

More so, the Government would be forced to disperse stimulus packages to assist residents, financed through reduced spending.

AI is now an integral part of our lives and there is hardly any area the technology has not impacted. Like it or not, the singularity is fast approaching and lawmakers should be preparing or risk being left behind!

Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.

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

Building a strong economy

Principles from the Book of Genesis

The Bible is one story that points to Jesus as the creator of life and Saviour of mankind. From its first pages, the main arc of the story is laid out. In the book of Genesis, the theme of creation, sin and decay, and recreation is clearly shown. A consistent reader of the Bible will see these themes played out throughout the Bible while an astute observer of society will see the same themes played out all the time. Something wonderful is established, say a park for kids to play in, but before long it is littered with trash, miscreants deface the property, and it becomes a den for drug dealing. A while later, a group of concerned citizens form and decide to do something about it, they clean it up, repaint it, appoint a committee to police its affairs, and the park is restored. Creation, sin, recreation. Over and over, we see this played out.

In the same way, across the world, we are seeing the damaging effects of economic corruption. To recreate our economic lives, the Bible offers several excellent points. From the book of Genesis, we see a number of these.

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

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

Stewardship of ResourcesGenesis 1:28 describes God's command to Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth." These verses teach us that we have a responsibility to care for and manage the resources that God has given us. Any economic development plan should prioritize stewardship of resources and work towards sustainable development that preserves the environment for future generations.

The Value of Hard WorkGenesis 2:15 tells us that "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and keep

it." This verse teaches us the value of hard work and the importance of taking responsibility for our own lives and livelihoods. National economic policies should encourage a strong work ethic and provide opportunities for people to develop their skills and talents in order to contribute to the community.

The Importance of Planning and Preparation - Genesis 41:3436 tells the story of Joseph, who interpreted Pharaoh's dreams and advised him to prepare for a coming famine by storing grain during the years of abundance. As a nation, it is important to be forward-thinking and prioritize long-term sustainability. Efforts should be undertaken now to design and implement plans for the

sustainability of all of those who live in this nation.

Honesty and Integrity in Business - Genesis 23 tells the story of Abraham purchasing a burial site for his wife Sarah from the Hittites. This transaction was conducted with

honesty and integrity, with both parties agreeing on a fair price and completing the sale without deceit. Business leaders need to prioritize honesty and integrity in business practices, working to create an environment of trust and mutual respect with the wider community. Laws should be instituted to ensure that those who practice dishonesty will face the appropriate consequences.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but these principles can help to promote a healthy and sustainable economy that benefits all members of the community.

What’s your love language?

Let’s cut to the chase. Love is hard. And if, for any reason, you think it’s easy, just wait and see — it will get hard really quickly. And when that happens, you have the option to stay or leave. To fight and really build a relationship or to start over in the hopes that the next relationship won’t get hard. However, that’s naive, because sooner or later you will be disappointed.

You are the author of this book. It is entirely up to you to decide how you want to love and how you want to be loved. At some point, you will have to think about how you want to be loved. This is where it gets complicated, because the person you end up with, may crave something totally different from you.

This week, I asked everyone I know what their love language was, and all of them gave me the same dull responses: Act of services, physical touch, words of

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

affirmation and so on. I think we moved away from these so-called love languages, love is presented and expected differently. Here are six unconventional love languages.

PAYING ATTENTION

This is not just about praising and giving compliments. Words are more important than deeds for this type. People who prefer this love style want to feel that their partner is paying attention to their personal qualities and

the little triumphs of their lives. Look for the smallest things in your partner and make a big deal about it. That is a winner!

EMOTIONAL

Be emotionally present! Know when to stay calm and when to manage your ups and your downs. I am differently running to the hill if I notice slight irregularities in emotions in someone. This type feels loved when they receive caring support during emotionally challenging

or vulnerable times.

FINANCIAL

People with the financial love style feel loved and valued when their partner shows generosity with finances in order to bring them joy. Treats and surprises are certainly part of this love style, but it is not limited to receiving gifts. Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton are welcome. Financial security however is the ultimate component here.

INTELLECTUAL

Connecting through the mind. They feel loved when their partner values their intelligence, respects their opinion, and takes part in thoughtful discussions of important issues. While the Intellectual love style includes a desire to spend quality time together. It also focuses more specifically on a meeting of minds and valuing each other's

intelligence.

PRACTICAL

Practical love is about going “above and beyond”, and doing things that are unexpected and specifically for the benefit of your partner. I am more interested in what you do.

ACTIVITY

People with the activity love style feel special and valued when their partner takes an interest in their hobbies, interests and makes an effort to enjoy those activities together. The motivation here is the link that is present when both parties are engaged in the same activity, it goes beyond just the time spent together. Try to indulge in your partner’s hobby, however dull it may be. What other love language can you think of? Do share with me, email louisedens@gmail.com if you can think of anything else.

“The DMO is our iPhone” –

Deputy Premier says “revolutionary change” is necessary for growth

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Deputy Premier Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders has likened the Government’s bold decision to transition the Tourist Board to a Destination Management Organization (DMO) to that of Apple’s co-founder and former CEO Steven “Steve” Jobs “risky” but rewarding move to enter the mobile phone market.

“The Tourist Board while we may think, was doing well, the Tourist Board is our iPod, the DMO is our iPhone”, he said during a sitting of the House of Assembly on Wednesday, April 26, 2023.

Saunders who is also the territory’s Minister for Finance, Investment and Trade drew a parallel between the two decisions which he described as “revolutionary”, noting that while drastic change often seems “questionable” at first, and is usually met with heavy pushback, it is essential for exponential growth.

He said: “Everyone who knows the history of business knows that sometimes even when something is doing well, sometimes you have to make a revolutionary change in order to get to where you really want it to be.”

He pointed out that under Steve Jobs, Apple had a track record of cannibalizing its own products.

In 2005, when the demand for

the iPod Mini remained huge, the Nano was launched, effectively destroying the revenue stream of an existing product and while iPod sales were still going through the roof, Jobs launched the iPhone which combined iPod, cell phone,

and Internet access into a single device.

Three years after the iPhone’s launch, iPad made its debut and raised the prospect of cutting into Mac desktop computer sales. So resolute was Apple’s

determination in trading a highly profitable business for an unknown future that Jobs reportedly said “If you don’t cannibalize yourself, someone else will.”

Saunders opined that it was this approach that made Apple one of the most influential companies in the world.

He said: “In 2006, iPod sales and related services accounted for 50% of Apple's total revenue. “But despite the success of the iPod, Steven Jobs launched the iPhone in 2007, knowing that this would render the iPod obsolete.

“ iPod sales reached a peak in 2008 and the rest as we know it is history.

“Apple revenues went from $19.3 billion in 2006 to $182. 8 billion in 2014.

“Apple is the largest company in the world by market cap, they're worth $2.5 trillion today.

“A gutsy move to disrupt a product that accounted for 50% of your total revenue, and was still in the growth mode.

“Sometimes you have to disrupt yourself”, he underscored.”

In this vein, the Deputy Premier posited the DMO is being positioned to catapult the territory’s bread-and-butter tourism industry to new heights.

He continued: “ Apple which went from almost being bankrupt and having to go to Microsoft for $50 million to make payroll to being the largest company in

the world today because it wasn't afraid to disrupt itself to go from good to great.

“And this is what we're doing … maybe we didn't address it properly, maybe we didn't answer every question properly, but I want the public to know the Tourist Board while doing very, very well is the iPod, but what we're doing with the DMO is moving to the iPhone.”

The Government’s recent move to dismantle the Tourist Board, the entity responsible for the management and marketing of the tourism sector for decades, has been met with public outrage and fierce criticism from the Parliamentary Opposition and members of the public.

However, Premier Honorable Washington Misick said the territory will go from average growth to exceptional performance with the introduction of the DMO.

The increased wealth is estimated at $640m- a sum that considers direct, indirect and induced economic impacts, compared to business as per usual without the DMO, out of that $640m, the direct economic impact on hotels and restaurants will be $467m, and a $173m of indirect and induced economic impact, Misick said at a recent press conference.nal budget is an indicator of government’s ability to deliver public services and achieve development objectives.

TCI continues efforts to dismantle mental health stigma

‘Dismantling stigma: One Mind at a Time' is the theme of this year’s mental health month,

aimed at improving community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing throughout

the Islands.

The theme seeks to capture the complexity of the effects of external and internalised stigmatisation, a statement from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence read. By focusing on dismantling or deconstructing the foundations of stigma, the Department said it hopes to eradicate misconceptions surrounding mental health issues; increase resident’s knowledge on the prospects of having a mental health concern and increase awareness of the availability of support services and their efficacy.

The Department also wishes to increase the public’s general understanding of how behaviours and language can aide those persons who may be facing particularly low times to attain the support that is needed.

The month of activities will include: a Ministry of Health panel discussion and luncheon on May 5 at the Shore Club Resort from12pm to 2 pm; video PSA on Dismantling Stigma also May 5; and on May 12 residents are encouraged to wear green and be an advocate against mental health stigma.

The Dismantling Stigma campaign takes an innovative approach to changing attitudes and beliefs about mental health and associated complications, through life-size portraits, accompanied by accounts of people with lived experiences.

Though research is limited within the Caribbean and Atlantic region, a systematic review completed by Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence staff in collaboration with PAHO participants, found that the use of ‘social contact

by partnering with local stigma fighters to share their mental health and substance use challenges and difficulties- helps to debunk stereotypes, validate the experience and encourages open and honest discussion about related disorders.

Whilst statistics highlight the complexity of the issue, the volunteers of this project bring faces and truth to an experience which many feel invalidated by, the Department said.

Since the campaign was launched in February at the Providenciales International Airport, and across social media, stigma fighters and staff have received countless messages of encouragement and appreciation for this initiative.

The Department stated that an increase in seeking support services has also been witnessed.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Hon.Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders

BY DELANA ISLES

Progress is being made in implementing an integrated solid waste project at the Wheeland dumpsite.

This is according to Hon Kyle Knowles, Member of Parliament for the Wheeland and West Caicos constituency, who told the House on April 27, that the tendering process closed on April 19.

“So, we are eagerly waiting to see what will transpire as they go through the evaluation process.”

He added: “This is one of those things that we have been wrestling with for some time and we are optimistic that the comprehensive approach that our government is taking this time around will definitely bring forth some beneficial fruit to us as we progress.”

Knowles said that along with

MP says community park and more for ED10

that is the current Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) consultation that is working in tandem, bringing on a different level of technical skill set that is drastically needed.

“We realize that the nonmanagement of the dump over the years has caused us to be at this point, but we're making progress on a daily basis.”

The government has received financing from CDB towards the cost of the Integrated Solid Waste Management Project. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of the government and upon approval by CDB and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement.

Knowles said that in getting the project fully off the ground there will be hurdles and bumps but urged residents to be a little bit more patient.

“I just want the residents and constituents of electoral district (ED10) to rest assured that we are doing our best to bring about a solution that is not just short term, but long term and that will address all of the health issues and concerns that were brought to our attention,” the MP said.

COMMUNITY PARK

Meanwhile, for residents of Millennium Heights, phase two, Knowles said the community park has finally made some progress.

“We are making progress in that

aspect; it's been one of those areas that has been neglected for a very long time.

“So, at some point, hopefully before the end of the summer, I'm having a long conversation with the developer, and we look to have a multi-purpose recreational area in the Millennium Heights area for families, for functions and for bringing back the community spirit that we always talk about.”

He also commended one of the local telecommunications companies that has installed free Wi-Fi at one of the parks in ED10.

“This again, is when we talk about safe spaces, functional spaces for young people in the afternoon having Wi-Fi, there is essentials. Having Wi-Fi is almost

like running water and power in your house now, it's a must.

Tender closed for Wheeland Solid Waste Management Project –

“So that is a good step and I hope to see that this practice happens throughout the rest of the country.”

Knowles is also optimistic that he can get the pesky traffic situation out of Blue Hills in the morning properly addressed, finally.

“I'm pleading with the police, I'm pleading with road traffic, we need assistance.

You know, the dangerous driving that we see on a daily basis, it's only a matter of time before someone really gets hurt, and I can say this because I come to it every morning, so I'm using my voice, I'm using my platform to address this.”

He said he has written many times but has not gotten the kind of feedback he would have appreciated, adding “I won't stop until we get some remedy to this”.

Government unveils $424.3m budget

CONTINUED

operation.

This will include the continuous funding of The Office of The Governor, The Office of The Deputy Governor, The Office of The Premier, House of Assembly, and Financial and Fiscal Affairs.

EDUCATION AND RECREATION

Turning his attention to the education sector, Saunders said the government is creating modern schools that are well-positioned and equipped “to give our people

the skills, knowledge, experience, and confidence to lead productive, meaningful lives” in an effort to drive sustainable development across all islands.

He said: “Mr Speaker, $48.9m (12% of the budgeted expenditure) is allocated towards education and recreation.

This will fund, free Community College to all Turks & Caicos Islanders and policies to support early childhood education and safeguard children.

Monies will also be pumped into improving school infrastructure, and making more scholarships and school support available for

students at all levels, as well as Recreation and Sport.

SOCIAL PROTECTION

To assist the poor and vulnerable, the government has proposed an allocation of $19.1m (5% of the budgeted expenditure) for social protection this financial year. Saunders pointed out that this will include support for: “Home Health and Social Assistance programme, Payments for stimulus applications under review, pensions and gratuities for public servants, and domestic violence victim support and gender equality.

HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AMENITIES

To fund the Government’s Housing and Community renewal programmes, an allocation of $18.5m (4.4% of the budgeted expenditure) is expected to be spent.

Priority will be given to housing and community amenities, water services, including water treatment and distribution, and district administrations.

SECURITY AND DEFENCE

The Deputy Premier underscored that his government is committed to ensuring that the islands are

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

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

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

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

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

secured and that residents are safe.

To this end, an allocation of $3.3m (0.8% of the budgeted expenditure) will be spent on security and defence.

This will fund the National Security Secretariat and the contingent forces, patrol vessels and motor vehicles for the Defence Forces and Disaster Management.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Public health, solid waste, and sewerage management will also be given priority in the 2023/2024 budget.

Saunders said: “The world just celebrated Earth Day – an annual event with the aim to preserve and conserve planet Earth and its biodiversity – on the 22nd of April 2023, and I am proud to say that our government is continuing to do its part with $2.8m in funding (0.7% of the budgeted expenditure) for Environmental Protection. Funds will also go towards fisheries and marine resource management.

CULTURE AND RELIGION

To preserve and promote culture and religion in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the government is also allocating $1.4 million (0.3% of the budgeted expenditure) towards “broadcasting and printing, youth development, development and promotion of culture, and religion, partnerships with churches to support community upliftment and crime reduction”, he added.

The soul’s bandaged moments

Thoughts about Mental Health Awareness Month 2023

It is with profound thanks and with a sense of wonder that I received the feedback informing me that last week’s column entitled “Disappearing little by little in their own time” had registered a record number of readers. Clearly something had resonated with people, especially those living in Providenciales, as they reminisced about the ‘good old days’ on Provo. Of the dozens of emails, I received from readers, one, written by a long-time resident, summed up the general sentiment perfectly. “Great article Titus…sad but great. I think back to when I arrived 22 years ago. Hey Jose, Calico Jacks, boiled fish and grits on Saturday morning at Gilley’s in Leeward and bingo on Sunday night at the Banana Boat. Reading Don’t Stop the Carnival and looking forward to short phone calls to my mom (because they were so expensive). Those were the good ole days, now greed and short-sightedness rule the day. Sad to say…”

By contrast, I must concede a certain reluctance on my part to tackle the subject matter of this week’s column, since it was bound to drag me out of my comfort zone. As I sat in the Grand Turk office of Dr Alicia Malcolm, the Director of

BY TITUS DE BOER

the Department of Mental Health & Substance Dependence, talking about the upcoming events for Mental Health Awareness Month, I realised that not writing this column was never an option. “I think it would be so helpful if you wrote about your experiences, said the good Dr Malcolm, calmly but very convincingly, “the whole emphasis this year is on the stigma attached to mental health, which is why we have asked persons from all walks of life to share their experiences…” And with that I knew it was time to write, challenging as it may be.

A few words about how I ended up in Dr Malcolm’s office in the first place. Having “battled” with depression for as long as I can remember, I found myself spiralling into a mental state last September that was on a whole new scale compared with my occasional “black dog” periods, as Winston

Churchill used to call them. The German word, “Lebensmüde”, a weariness of life, probably best describes my condition. I recall sitting in the darkened house of a friend in Grand Turk, literally not knowing what to do next and engulfed by a feeling of profound hopelessness. Was I feeling suicidal? I’d like to think not. Did I need help - yes absolutely. An email to Dr Malcolm, initially asking her to contact me regarding an interview for a column, was to be my lifeline. Like so many other people dealing with mental health concerns, I couldn’t bring myself to simply say, “I need help”.

To her credit Dr Malcolm answered my email within a very short period and before I knew it was receiving the professional help of a truly first-class therapist on Grand Turk, who I continue

to see on a regular basis. Every mental health patient is unique, and their conditions, experiences, and treatment options vary largely, which is why I shall refrain from detailing much of my personal circumstances into this piece. If any aspect of this column has resonated with you, dear reader, then there are TWO key facts to remember, these are: YOU ARE NOT ALONE and YOU CAN GET HELP. According to the World Health Organisation’s World Mental Health report, published in 2022, depression and anxiety rose 25% in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing the total number of people living with a mental disorder globally to approximately 10%. The COVID-19 pandemic no doubt had an unprecedented impact on mental health issues, not just in the TCI, as it made it much more

difficult or even impossible for people to meet their therapists and counsellors in person. Thankfully the Covid pandemic is now behind us; and we in the Turks and Caicos Islands not only have the necessary facilities and mental health care professionals readily available but, as Dr Malcolm emphasised during our conversation about Metal Health Awareness Month, the services are free to all TCI citizens.

The Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh remarked, “I knew well enough that one could fracture one’s legs and arms and recover afterwards, but I did not know you could fracture the brain in your head and recover from that too”. We in the Turks and Caicos Islands are truly blessed with some very well qualified, dedicated metal health professionals and with that we get back to the theme of this years Metal Health Awareness Month, “Dismantling Stigma: One Mind at a Time”. Is it hard to ask for help? The answer is dependent on the individual, but I’ll admit, I thought it was. Was it worth it in the end? Absolutely! This column is dedicated to all the mental health professionals of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is Dismantling Stigma: One mind at a Time. (Photo: Departement of Mental Health & Substance Dependence)

The total number of people living with a mental disorder globally is approximately 10% or 1 in 8. (Graph: Our World in Data)

Sorrowing Old Man (At Eternity’s Gate) by Vincent Van Gogh illustrates the burden of mental health disorders

TCI and Jamaica strengthen cooperation in disaster response –

future training for local troops

TCI Film Festival invites photographs for its poster competition

It’s that time of year again when entries are welcomed for the TCI’s Film Festival (TCIFF) 2023 poster competition.

Chair of TCIFF Karen Whitt: “We are excited about the 2023 poster competition; this year we are looking for creativity in photography and we invite photographers of all skill levels to submit photos for the upcoming poster design.”

The competition is open to all residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the image can be a single shot, composite, or collage.

Whitt said: “As always, the theme of the festival, ‘Oceans and Environment’, should be incorporated into every entry, but how that is demonstrated through photography is entirely up to the artists submitting their work.”

Organisers are encouraging all residents - amateurs or professional photographersto grab their camera or phone and capture imagery that they feel best represents the TCI, the film industry, or the festival’s theme.

The TCIFF poster competition has long been a staple of the festival, and its unveiling has been an exciting reveal for many.

From featuring the art of world-renowned local artist Bradley Theodore for their inaugural poster, to highlighting the incredibly

talented youth of these islands in subsequent years, the poster has not only represented the festival to the world but has also showcased the creative talents that exist in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The organization is encouraging all residents to participate by uploading their images to our website, www. tciff.org.

Whitt said: “There is no limit to how many images you can submit, in fact, we encourage you to upload and submit as many images as you would like.”

The Turks and Caicos International Film Festival is a not-for-profit organisation

There will be a cash prize for the winning photograph, the winning image will be used in the creation of the 2023 poster and will be designed by the TCIFF organizers.

The fifth annual Turks and Caicos International Film Festival will take place November 10 to 12 and will once again be an event that combines the glitz and glamor of Hollywood with impact and purpose.

The festival will also celebrate the best of filmmaking with a focus on safeguarding our oceans and environmental conservation.

Submissions for the poster competition will close on May 26.

Turks and Caicos Islands continues to strengthen relations with its regional partners, most recently with the Jamaica Defence Force now that the Atlantic Hurricane Season is under a month away.

The two countries also discussed opportunities for future training for the TCI Regiment at the Caribbean Military Academy and other institutions in Jamaica.

The Jamaica Defence Force delegation comprised Brigadier Markland Lloyd - Force Executive Officer; Colonel Rohan Johnson -

Colonel General Staff and Lt Col Eldon Morgan - Commanding Officer 1 Engineer Regiment.

Joining the Governor (Acting), HE Anya Williams for the meeting was Deputy Premier, Hon Erwin Jay Saunders, along with ranks of the TCI Regiment: Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant; Regimental Sergeant Major Collin Da Silva; Captain Dixie Smith; Captain Francis Glinton; Lieutenant Zachery Rigby and Lieutenant Earl Henry.

Top of the discussion was areas of cooperation between the Jamaica Defence Force and the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment to strengthen regional response in relation to the Disaster Assistance Response Team (D.A.R.T.).

This includes exploring opportunities for future training for the TCI Regiment in the neighbouring country.

The Governor said she looks forward to building a strong partnership with Jamaica.

HMP inmates participate in Invest TCI Business Training workshop

Two inmates at His Majesty's Prison, Grand Turk, recently had the opportunity to participate in a 2-hour business programme hosted by Invest Turks and Caicos Business Support Unit.

The workshop which was held on Tuesday, 18th April, 2023, was facilitated by Ms Peshina Williams, owner of Vision Financial.

The seminar focused on key areas such as introduction to Microsoft; recording sales & expenses; cash book; monitoring inventory; petty cash

management; float management; and organisation of worksheets, according to a statement from the government.

Participants were able to hear from other local business owners looking to either start or who have already launched their own businesses. The group consisted of budding and experienced entrepreneurs.

Prison Superintendent, Michael Woodbine commenting on the inclusion of inmates in the seminar said: “Preparing prisoners to

return to our communities is key in them achieving a successful resettlement. Being able to use temporary release to enable prisoners to attend events and build community links is part of the rehabilitative journey, and we will be enabling more opportunities in the future”.

Upon completion of the seminar, participants received a Certificate of Participation from Invest Turks and Caicos for training in "Managing Your Business Finances with Excel Training".

Inmates at His Majesty’s Prison among attendees at the Invest TCI workshop

TCI and Jamaica forces hammering out strategies on how to strengthen DART (TCIG photo)

Governor Anya Williams (Acting) and local officials welcomed members of the Jamaica Defence Force to the territory last week (TCIG photo)

BOTs’ economic and social development to be discussed at annual JMC

Pertinent matters relating to TCI’s governance and the sustainable economic and social development of all British Overseas Territories (BOTs) are high on the agenda for the UK Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC).

To this end, the Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon Charles Washington Misick will lead a delegation to the JMC in London from May 9 -12, 2023.

During the series of meetings, Misick will also meet bilaterally with the Minister responsible for Overseas Territories in the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office, Lord Zac Goldsmith of Richmond Park.

While in the United Kingdom,

the Premier and delegates will also host an engagement with students and the diaspora in Manchester on May 13, 2023, a statement from the Office of the Premier said on Friday, April 28.

Commenting on the visit, Premier Misick said he is looking forward to direct engagement with the Government of the United Kingdom on matters of national interest to the Turks and Caicos Islands and the wider British Overseas Territory family.

He said: “As the former Chairman of the United Kingdom Overseas Territory Association (UKOTA), the Turks and Caicos Islands must continue to be a leading voice in the affairs of

TCHTA and partners host earth day weekend initiatives in Grand Turk

The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) took its signature TCI Shines Earth Day programme to the nation’s capital, partnering with members to create a weekend of events in celebration of the globally recognised environmental movement.

The three-day collaboration included community engagement, education, and awareness activities. These initiatives were aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging the community to take responsibility for keeping their environment clean.

Marie McKenzie, Senior Vice President of Government and Destination Affairs for Carnival Corporation and PLC said: "We are excited to partner with the TCHTA, and for the opportunity to give the community an intimate look at our operation and our commitment to safeguarding the planet we call home, our guests, the communities we serve, and our Carnival family.

“I think it also gives the community a real appreciation for the rigor and focus we dedicate to complying with the laws and regulations that govern our business.”

The events began with a ship tour hosted by Carnival Corporation and PLC. TCHTA members, government officials, high school students, and other stakeholders boarded the Carnival Mardi Gras for a first-hand look at the ship’s strict standards and operating procedures.

The Carnival team shared how systems have been put in place to

our counterparts as it relates to achieving triple-bottom-line sustainability and economic advancement.

“I am eager to speak with members of our diaspora living and working abroad with the hopes of attracting them back to the TCI as we build a strong and stable society.”

For the duration of the Premier’s absence, Deputy Premier and Minister for Finance, Investment and Trade, Hone Erwin Jay Saunders will serve as Acting Premier.

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

focus on sustainability efforts: food waste management, advanced air quality systems, decarbonization practices, and adopting the circular economy model aimed at waste reduction. Tour attendees explored the beauty and magnificence of the Mardi Gras and had an enlightening experience.

Sharing her thoughts on the importance of the partnership, Carnival’s Senior Vice President noted: “One of Carnival’s core principles is to honour the integrity of every ocean we sail, place we visit and life we touch.

“Achieving our purpose and mission depends on our being a good corporate citizen and a positive force for our partner destinations, supporting local sustainable community development, and inspiring ripple effects of positive economic and social impacts.”

On day two, the TCHTA’s Education Committee took to the capital’s schools, speaking to students on the history of the TCI Shines initiative.

Led by the committee’s Chair and newly elected Vice President, Tendra Musgrove, the children were encouraged to be ambassadors for the cause, ensuring that they admonished peers and family members about the detriments of destructive environmental behaviours.

"We must instil in our children the values of sustainability and environmental preservation,” said Musgrove.

She added: “We hope that by educating them about TCI Shines

TCHTA’s Tendra Musgrove met with students in the nation’s capital as part of the association’s Earth Day activities (TCHTA photo)

and the importance of tourism to our islands, they will become passionate ambassadors in their communities."

On cleanup day, community members joined the TCHTA team at one of Grand Turk’s most precious landmarks, the Clock Tower Park on Pond Street.

Members of government, Rotary and Rotaract, the Overback, Palm Grove, and Breezy Brae community groups, and the Cadets were among those who came together to make the streets of the capital shine on Earth Day. Groups were deployed to several areas, working to rid the sidewalks and bushes of unsightly garbage and debris.

The effort was graciously supported by partners Graceway Communities, DECR, and FortisTCI, and TCHTA member, Exclusive Escapes. The Honourable Otis Morris and his team assisted with hauling and discarding filled bags.

TCI Shines is one of the TCHTA's signature initiatives, led by its Sustainable Tourism Committee bi-annually. The initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism and encourage the community to take responsibility for keeping their environment clean, inclusive of land and sea.

Mona Beeson, Chair of the TCHTA Sustainable Tourism Committee, expressed her delight

at the turnout.

"We are thrilled with the success of this Earth Day weekend. It was heartening to see the community come together to make a positive impact on the environment. For 14 years, TCI Shines has impacted our communities and our industry, and we are always humbled by the support and eager participation throughout the islands.”

The TCHTA expressed gratitude to its partners and volunteers for their support and commitment to keeping Turks and Caicos beautiful by nature, and clean by choice. The association said it looks forward to taking TCI Shines back to Grand Turk and to the sister islands in years to come.

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Earth Day cleanup on Grand Turk (TCHTA photo)

TCI represented by twelve in King’s Coronation Parade

Ten members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment and two from the Royal TCI Police Force are now in London, a week ahead of the King’s Coronation Parade.

The ranks departed on Thursday, April 27, and Tuesday, May 2, on British Airways flights, and since landing in

London, have been taken through several rehearsals with the British Armed Forces and military representatives from other British Overseas Territories and commonwealth countries.

The TCI Delegation consists of: Capt. Adrian Parker, Marine Arthrivia Russel, Corp. Brooklyn

Williams, Marine Dalton Daniel, Marine Gregory Wilson, Marine Kylon Gravely, Marine Mauqueita Carter, Marine Raphael Anderson, Marine Temardia Williams, Lance Corp. Timothy Browning, Sergeant Lauralee Jagroop and Sergeant Dakota Smith.

On Saturday, May 6, His Majesty

Graceway communities host third annual Earth Day Market

Graceway Communities, the charitable arm of Graceway Supermarkets held their annual Earth Day Farmer Market on April 22, 2023, under the theme “Invest in our Planet”, as the backdrop.

According to information from the charity, the focus was also on preserving and protecting "Our Coral Reefs”.

The charity of choice this year and the recipient of all funds raised was the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund.

Commenting on Earth Day 2033 Latoya Walkin, Communications Manager at

Graceway Supermarkets, stated “Despite outstanding achievement and decades of environmental advancement, we now face a set of even more serious, nearly unmanageable global concerns, from biodiversity loss to climate change to plastic pollution, which calls for action from all tiers of government as well as businesses of all kinds.

“On April 22, Earth Day serves as a platform to show support for environmental preservation.

“Originally held on April 22, 1970, it currently consists of a wide range of events that have

been planned globally as we stand with one billion people in more than 193 nations who are trying to change the world.”

Walkin further noted “Making this event yearly is something we at Graceway Supermarkets are delighted to do in support of the Turks and Caicos Islands, which is more sustainable for both our generation and the one after.

The Department of Agriculture, the DECR, Fortis TCI, Flamingo Pharmacy, and the TC Reef Fund were also partners with Graceway this year.

“We would like to express our

King Charles III will be crowned alongside The Queen Consort Camilla at Westminster Abbey, to be followed by the Coronation Parade.

Residents are urged to join in the local celebrations of Coronation week, by sending to the Governor’s office their photos

or attending the TCI’s Coronation Day viewing to be hosted at the Anglican Church Dillon Hall in Grand Turk.

Residents can also view the Royal Coronation at their own leisure at 6am local time from their homes and the service is expected to last for 90 minutes.

gratitude to all our volunteers, local and backyard farmers, and our sponsors: Sunshine Nursery, Environmental Arts, TCHTA, Digicel, Flow, Caicos Dreams Tours, and Big Blue Collective, for their unwavering support. We wouldn’t have succeeded if it were not for you.”

Graceway Supermarkets has been supporting local communities in the Turks and Caicos Islands since 1998 and in early 2019 it introduced Graceway Communities, an umbrella for all “the social and charitable efforts for the good of the Turks and Caicos Islands”.

TCI Regiment’s official photo with Mark Lancaster, Baron Lancaster of Kimbolton (Timothy Browning photo)

The TCI Regiment team taking part in the King’s Coronation left for London on April 27 (Governor’s office photo)

Regional News

Bahamas: Research findings will determine possible employment age changed

Immigration Minister Keith Bell said research findings would determine whether the government raises the minimum employment age, though it is necessary to align age-related legal provisions.

Mr Bell’s comment came after The Tribune reported that the National Tripartite Council would review raising the minimum employment age in the Employment Act to 16.

Labour Director Robert Farquharson said raising the minimum employment age to 16 would align the provision with best practices.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) also pushes The Bahamas to implement the change.

However, Philip Beneby, president of the Retail Grocers Association, suggested he opposes a shift, saying it would produce more idle teenagers who get into mischief.

Responding yesterday, Mr Bell said: “We will have to wait for the proper, thorough, in-depth research to be done before anyone can make an informed decision, but we have to move things with modern times.”

“We have to ensure that there is parity in the law, in terms of age. The age to vote cannot be different from the age to drink, from the age to drive, (so) all of these different things, we have to make sure that everything is on one accord...and so I can only say that laws are

“Nothing is static and until we get the proper, in-depth research, and, of course, consultation and the Cabinet’s decision, then we will be in a better position to address that question, but it is being considered.”

Meanwhile, Sharon Martin, chairperson of the National Tripartite Council, said she believes there needs to be a minimum age limit for general employment.

“I’m very well aware of the pushback on the minimum age but we also have to take a keen look at the policy, the child labour

PM Davis appeals for support in the fight against climate change

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave”

Davis appealed for support in the fight against climate change this week while addressing a roundtable hosted by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) in the United Kingdom.

The event is among several in which Mr Davis will participate before King Charles is crowned later this week.

“In remarks I made to the General Assembly of the United Nations in September 2021 in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, I made the point that surely, a key learning that came out of the experience is that none of us is safe until we all are safe,” Mr Davis said.

Bermuda: Minimum wage to take effect on June 1

THE island’s first minimum wage will come into effect on June 1, according to the Minister of Economy and Labour.

Jason Hayward said the hourly rate would be $16.40.

of Labour, will aim to improve relations between employers and workers and fight for and enhance labour policies.

policy in The Bahamas,” she said. “We also have to take a look at the children who are working in the food stores and what age (they can work). There has to be a limit on how old you are in order to work.”

“Again, policy is everything and if you do not initiate policies (and) if you do not initiate boundaries, then everybody does everything and who knows what’s legal and what’s illegal, and that’s the main thing. The minimum age needs to be raised in order to allow things in The Bahamas to really take shape.”

(Tribune242)

“This monumental step ensures all employees in Bermuda have the right to a wage that is considered dignified,” he added.

“In addition to supporting minimum wage framework, the Government passed the Employment (minimum hourly wage entitlement) Act 2022, which outlines who is entitled to receive a minimum hourly wage and the enforcement provisions established regarding payment of the same.”

The minister also announced the creation of a new government department to replace the Ministry of Economy and Labour’s labour relations section.

This new entity, the Department

Mr Hayward said: “Essentially, the Department of Labour will provide a one-stop shop for all employment and labour services.

“It will establish a system of proactive workplace inspections, while promoting compliance with the Employment and Labour Code and encouraging harmonious labour relations between unions, employers, employees and their representatives.”

Mr Hayward announced both initiatives in recognition of International Workers’ Day, held worldwide on May 1. He said: “Today, we celebrate the invaluable service all workers give to their workplaces, their customers and their community.” (Royal Gazette)

“The same applies in relation to climate change, and the finance needed to help us survive it. Climate and climate change is no respecter of borders. Carbon emissions harm us all because what happens in one country doesn’t stay in that country. And in finding and implementing solutions, please know that The Bahamas is committed to playing an active role as a partner.”

Last year, Mr Davis announced plans to offer blue carbon credits for companies aiming to offset their greenhouse gas emissions.

He said the government is “making good progress in developing a Blue Carbon Market”.

“We are also progressing well

on understanding exactly how much carbon our seagrasses are absorbing,” he said. “The findings so far indicate that our seas and sea grasses absorb more carbon faster than the Amazon Rain Forest. But in making progress, we need the support of the countries and companies like the ones present

here today. We need your support.”

Mr Davis emphasised the impact severe weather systems have on The Bahamas.

“The impact of Hurricane Dorian, that category 5 monster

which struck

islands of

and Grand Bahama in 2019, remains with us,” he said.

“The loss of lives and livelihoods is still part of our present reality. And the consequences from that storm, and the next one, may be even worse. Some of us know already what it is to be a climate refugee. And some of us know what it is to lose everyone and everything.

The Bermudian dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1:1

Labour and Immigration Minister Keith Bell

evolving.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis appealed for support in the fight against climate change while addressing a roundtable hosted by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) in the United Kingdom

storm

our

Abaco

Caribbean countries decline on World Press Freedom Index

Caribbean countries regressed on this year’s Press Freedom Index, which was released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) this week.

Trinidad and Tobago is the highest-ranked Caribbean country on the 2023 index at 30th, which was five places lower than 2022.

In its assessment, RSF said: “Year after year, Trinidad and Tobago maintains its good record in terms of freedom of the press, even though there is still room for improvement.”

RSF said “Trinidad and Tobago provides a generally safe and protected environment for the profession”.

Jamaica, who was the highestranked Caribbean country in 2022, fell 20 places to be ranked at number 32.

RSF said “freedom of the press has continued to improve in Jamaica, and the right to information is widely respected”.

However, the group noted that journalists, in rare instances, have faced physical attacks.

“A videographer for Television Jamaica and a reporter for the Jamaica Gleaner were attacked in November 2022 while covering a teachers’ protest in St Catherine Parish outside Kingston when a man interrupted their interview and damaged their equipment,” RSF said. “Apart from this incident, no acts of violence against journalists had been recorded in the past ten years. Still, reporters must measure the threat posed to them by the country’s high crime rate when they are investigating a sensitive subject.”

The lowest-ranked Caribbean country was Cuba.

The communist island ranked 172nd, which was one place higher than in 2022.

Despite the improvement, RSF said: “Cuba remains, year in and

Press freedom is the right to publish and disseminate information, thoughts, and opinions without restraint or censorship

year out, the worst country for press freedom in Latin America”. “Arrests, arbitrary detentions, threats of imprisonment, persecution and harassment, illegal raids on homes, confiscation and destruction of equipment – all this awaits journalists who do not toe the Cuban Communist Party line. The authorities also control foreign journalists’ coverage by granting

accreditation selectively, and by expelling those considered ‘too negative’ about the government”.

CARIBBEAN PRESS FREEDOM RANKING FOR 2023:

1. Trinidad and Tobago (30)

2. Jamaica (32)

3. Dominican Republic (43)

4. Suriname (48)

5. Belize (51)

6. Guyana (60)

7. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (93)

8. Haiti (99)

9. Cuba (172)

Norway retained its top spot on the Press Freedom Index followed by Ireland and Denmark. (Loopnews)

US man found with cash in wigs at Jamaican airport convicted

A US citizen was last week convicted in the St James Parish Court for concealment of criminal property and possession of criminal property after cash was found in women’s wigs in his luggage at the airport in Montego Bay, St James, Jamaica.

The Financial Investigations Division (FID) said in a release Tuesday that 30-year-old Kenardo Coke, a security guard of a New Jersey address in the US, was fined $500,000 on each offence or six months in prison.

The conviction follows the seizure of US$50,400 from Coke on April 10, 2021 at the Donald Sangster International Airport.

FID said an investigation resulted in Coke being charged with breaches of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

The investigations also reportedly revealed Coke’s connection to lottery scamming activities based on the discovery of lottery scamming paraphernalia in his possession. FID said it is believed that the cash was the proceeds of that criminal activity.

A court hearing is set for June 23, 2023 in respect of forfeiting

the cash under Section 7 In commenting on the case, the FID’s principal director of investigation, Keith Darien, noted:

The collaboration with the FID, the JCF and Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) in tackling money launderers who try to smuggle ill-gotten gains to our shores must be lauded. I thank our colleagues for their vigilance and dedication.

He said the decades-long collaboration has been strategically strengthened by the recent signing of MOUs with various agencies, including FID, JCA, JCF and others.

“We are demonstrating to everyone that law enforcement agencies are committed to partnering to investigate and prosecute those persons who commit crime and will work assiduously to remove the benefit of such criminality,” said Darien.

He added: “In this case, the effectiveness of JCA in depriving criminals of their spoils may have prevented the acquisition of illegal arms or incidents of shooting and murders. We must also highlight the efforts of remittance agencies and our local banks in their robust

Donald Sangster International Airport

World News

Title 42: 1,500

US troops to be deployed to southern border

The US is sending 1,500 troops to bolster resources at its southern border ahead of an expected surge of migrants, the defence department said.

They will accompany 2,500 National Guard members already in place to support the work of border agents.

Title 42, a Trump-era policy that gives the government power to automatically expel undocumented migrants, is set to expire on 11 May.

Officials expect a sharp increase in migrants to follow.

The additional military personnel will be deployed for 90 days to “supplement” the work of US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers, a US official told the BBC on Tuesday.

They will not be doing any law enforcement, the official said, but will instead assist with transportation, narcotics detection,

data entry and warehouse support.

In a statement released later by the Department of Defense, the agency said the additional personnel would fill “critical capability gaps”.

Pentagon spokesman General Patrick Ryder told media on Tuesday that his agency has supported the Department of Homeland Security on the southern border for 18 of the last 22 years, and every year since 2006. The troops will arrive as early as 10 May, General Ryder said.

The deployment is meant to ease the growing pressure on border agents as they prepare for a sharp increase in migrants at the southern border.

The number of migrants who crossed illegally into the US there during the 2021 fiscal year was the highest on record since at least 1960. Last year, that number topped

2.76 million - another record.

Troy Miller, the top CBP official, told Congress last month that his agency is preparing for more than 10,000 migrants to cross the border each day after the expiry of Title 42 - more than double the daily average in March.

Initially invoked in early 2020 at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Title 42 allowed the US government to quickly expel migrants trying to cross its border with Mexico - including asylum seekers - with the stated intent of preventing the coronavirus from spreading in the US.

The Biden administration has unveiled a plan that would make it harder for migrants to claim asylum by requiring adult asylum seekers to use an app to book a meeting with US officials or first claim asylum in another country before reaching the US.

The app, known as CBP One, was rolled out in January and will remain in place regardless of Title 42.

Failure to comply would make migrants ineligible if they subsequently reach the border and would allow for those undocumented migrants to be

swiftly deported.The plan - and its expedited removal of some migrants, including asylum seekers - prompted criticism from human rights groups.

Last month, the White House also announced it would set up brick-and-mortar immigration processing centres in Latin America, another effort to reduce the number of undocumented migrants crossing into the US. The centres, with locations starting in Colombia and Guatemala, will screen migrants and determine whether they qualify for entry to the US. (BBC)

Sudan generals unwilling to end fighting – UN

The UN’s top aid official has warned that the “will to end the fight still was not there” after speaking to Sudan’s rival military leaders.

Martin Griffiths told the BBC that Sudan’s descent into violence was now at a dangerous tipping point.

He called for security guarantees from the warring sides to allow humanitarian aid into the country.

The UN warns that the fighting could force hundreds of thousands of Sudanese to flee their homes.

In a BBC interview hours after his visit to Port Sudan, Mr Griffiths spoke bluntly of what he called “the rigid existential fact that those at war are keen to keep it going”.

During his time in Sudan’s largest port, now a major evacuation and humanitarian hub, he had separate telephone conversations with Sudan’s rival generals.

Mr Griffiths, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, called for their clear public commitments to guarantee urgent

The UN warns that hundreds of thousands of people could flee the conflict

deliveries of aid.

“This is about specific protections for the movement of aid workers and goods and suppliesgoing down roads at certain times, airlifts from being shot down,” he emphasised when we sat down in the Saudi port city of Jeddah across the Red Sea from Sudan.

Evacuation ships now arrive daily at the port carrying foreigners and Sudanese, mainly with second passports, fleeing Sudan’s sudden

descent into rampant violence and wanton looting.

Mr Griffiths described how most of their warehouses storing humanitarian supplies had been looted. Six trucks in an aid convoy heading to the Darfur region were seized en route.

He asked for face-to-face meetings with both General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who heads Sudan’s armed forces, and his former deputy General Hamdan

Dagalo, who commands the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

“I think it’s obviously urgent, this should be done in the next day or so,” he told us. “We’re working on it.”

Since 15 April, when the bombs first dropped and bullets flew in all directions, the rival leaders have agreed successive short ceasefires which have repeatedly been violated, especially in the capital Khartoum and the western region of Darfur, which are now war zones.

Mr Griffiths heard the same fine words in his telephone calls where “they were both, separately, very eloquent in their attachment to humanitarian principles and aspirations on the question of where and when we can meet”.

Visibly shocked and saddened by what he had seen and heard, he spoke of “tales of traumatic atrocity... that are pretty unparalleled.”

“I think a really, really, deeply concerning aspect is the speed with which it is going viral,” he added, reaching for words to convey the

enormity and intensity of a crisis with profound consequences for the region and the wider world.

“It has got all the makings of a tragedy of global relevance, and global significance. And that is why this is an opportunity for the international community to show that we care about Africa,” he underlined with a sweeping perspective of what was at stake in Sudan’s crisis.

More than 100,000 Sudanese have already crossed land borders, or the Red Sea, into Sudan’s neighbours, and more than 344,000 are said to be displaced across a country where millions have been pinned down by the carnage and criminality.

The UN is warning of a possible exodus of 800,000 with others warning that number could be in the millions.

Mr Griffiths paid tribute to aid workers still on the ground in Sudan, especially local Sudanese civil society and humanitarian agencies, still determined to press on with their urgent humanitarian mission.

Title 42, a Trump-era policy that gives the government power to automatically expel undocumented migrants, is set to expire on 11 May

Fed raises US interest rates to highest in 16 years

The US central bank has raised interest rates to the highest level in 16 years as it battles to stabilise prices.

The Federal Reserve increased its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points - its 10th hike in 14 months.

The Fed signalled that Wednesday’s rise may be its last one for now.

The moves have pushed its benchmark rate to between 5% and 5.25% - up from near zero in March 2022.

Higher rates have sharply raised borrowing costs across the world’s largest economy, spurring a slowdown in sectors such as housing and playing a role in the recent failures of three US banks.

“We’re no longer saying that we anticipate” additional interest rate increases, Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell said at a press conference after the announcement, calling it a “significant change”.

However, he refused to rule out further action, saying: “We’ll be driven by incoming data.”

The bank started raising interest rates aggressively last year when prices in the US were soaring at the fastest pace in decades.

Central banks around the world, including in the UK and in Europe,

points in just over a year, sharply increasing borrowing costs across the US economy

have taken similar action.

Higher interest rates make it more expensive to buy a home, borrow to expand a business or take on other debt. By increasing those costs, officials expect demand to fall and prices to cool off.

Since the Fed started its campaign, price increases in the US have shown signs of moderating.

In March, inflation, the rate at which prices rise, stood at 5% - the

lowest level in nearly two yearsthough still uncomfortably high for the Fed, which is targeting a 2% rate.

Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY-Parthenon, said he thought the Fed would be “prudent” to pause now, noting that the risks to the economy as activity slows are growing.

“The fear of a recession is very much present in the economy

today,” he said. “I don’t think the inflation battle is over, but we are in a situation where we’re seeing gradual disinflation and we’re also in an environment where interest rates are high and elevated and therefore should be constraining business activity, which should lead to further disinflation in coming months.”

At Ball Chain Manufacturing, a family-owned firm in New York, customers have become more cautious in recent months due to economic worries, says president Bill Taubner. His company has also cut back on replenishing its supplies in response to still-rising prices.

But he said his firm did not face imminent borrowing needs and he remained hopeful that any slowdown would be mild and relatively short-lived.

“We realise there is some softness in the marketplace because of inflation and obviously the interest rate issues,” he said. “But long term, we’re very positive.”

The recent bank failures, and an anticipated pullback in lending as a result, are likely to weigh on the economy, Mr Powell said.

But he added that he remained hopeful that the US would avoid a recession, noting that

hiring has remained strong and unemployment low.

“I continue to think that it’s possible…that this time is really different,” he said.

The Fed’s decision to raise rates on Wednesday was unanimous and widely expected by financial markets, which are looking for clues as to what the bank may do next.

In a written statement, the bank scrapped previous guidance it provided in March when it said “some additional policy firming may be appropriate” to bring inflation under control.

In the press conference, Mr Powell said the bank was “getting close or maybe even there” when it came to pausing its rate-hike campaign but was prepared to do more if warranted.

Whitney Watson, global cohead of fixed income and liquidity solutions at Goldman Sachs Asset Management, said the Fed could still raise rates, depending on what happens in the coming months.

“Inflation is trending in the right direction, but progress has been bumpy,” she said. “A pause in rate actions is therefore appropriate, but further tightening is plausible should inflation prove sticky.” (BBC)

US bank seeks buyer as confidence crisis spreads

ANOTHER US bank is seeking a financial lifeline as a crisis of confidence in the country’s banking sector continues.

PacWest said it is considering its options after it said it had been approached by potential buyers and investors, as its share price plunged.

Confidence in the banking industry - especially mid-sized lenders - has been shaken by a series of failures.

Some banks have experienced difficulties because of a steady rise in interest rates.

Central banks have been lifting borrowing costs to combat rising prices, or inflation.

On Wednesday, the US Federal Reserve lifted the key interest rate again, this time to 5.25% which is the highest since 2007.

Unlike competitors which have collapsed in recent weeks, California’s PacWest said it had not seen large numbers of customers rushing to take their money out.

But on Thursday evening, it admitted that it was considering its options after being “approached

Investor confidence in US regional banks has been shaken

by several potential partners and investors”. It said “discussions are ongoing”.

The statement confirmed reports that sent PacWest’s share price tumbling, with investors worried that it “will be the next domino to fall”, according to analyst

Susannah Streeter, at Hargreaves Lansdown.

Earlier this week, fellow Californian bank First Republic was rescued by US authorities which sold on billions of dollars worth of its loans and deposits to JP Morgan Chase.

First Republic is the third US mid-sized lender to fail within the past two months. Silicon Valley Bank was the first to fail in midMarch followed by New York’s Signature Bank.

Turbulence has hit the share prices of other US banks including

Western Alliance. Its stock dropped by 23% on Wednesday.

Zion, First Horizon and Comerica also each slumped more than 7%.

“Confidence in a financial institution is built over decades and destroyed in days,” billionaire investor Bill Ackman wrote in a tweet. “As each domino falls, the next weakest bank begins to wobble.”

Along with rate rises, US midsized banks including PacWest have been struggling due to investor fears over their loans to venture capitalists, who have heavily invested in technology firms.

The technology sector has been cutting jobs as firms struggle with a downturn in demand, high inflation and rising interest rates.

The spate of collapses has led to a focus on the issue by US lawmakers. On Thursday, the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs will have a hearing on “holding executives accountable after recent banking failures”. (BBC)

The Fed has raised its benchmark interest rates by 5 percentage

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Jamie Foxx receives celebrity support after hospitalisation

Jamie Foxx has received support online after posting on social media for the first time since being hospitalised.

The Oscar-winning actor has been in hospital for several weeks following a recent “medical complication”.

He shared a note on Instagram saying “Appreciate all the love!!! Feeling blessed.”

Among those offering their support were Vin Diesel and Jeremy Renner, who is recovering from a major snowplough accident.

Foxx’s daughter said last month he was being treated with “great care” but did not specify what had happened to him.

Corinne Foxx’s original post read: “We wanted to share that my father, Jamie Foxx, experienced a medical complication yesterday.

“Luckily, due to quick action and great care, he is already on his way to recovery.

“We know how beloved he is and appreciate your prayers. The family asks for privacy during this time. Much love, The Foxx Family.” The 55-year-old was reportedly hospitalised in Atlanta, Georgia whilst filming Netflix’s Back In Action alongside Cameron Diaz.

According to People magazine, the incident did not happen on set and he was not taken to hospital in an emergency vehicle.

Foxx also received support from Friends actor Courteney Cox and singer John Legend in the form of prayer emojis.

Ansel Elgort, who starred alongside Foxx in the 2017

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to

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film Baby Driver wrote: “You are the greatest Jamie, please make a speedy recovery. You are a blessing to this world, we need you in it.”

Foxx also thanked the actor Nick Cannon on Instagram for filling in for him as host of musical TV game show Beat Shazam.

In a statement, the show’s producers said: “Everybody at FOX Entertainment wishes Jamie well as he continues his recovery, and we greatly appreciate Nick’s willingness to jump in and help this summer.” (BBC)

SOURCES close to the production say Kevin Costner, who stars in the hit Paramount series “Yellowstone,” will not be returning to the show after its fifth season.

The report comes after rumours swirled earlier in the year of drama between Costner and co-creator Taylor Sheridan over the actor’s commitment to filming the remaining episodes of the current season.

Sources who spoke to Entertainment Tonight said there’s currently no update on when production plans to resume filming on location in Montana to wrap up season

5, adding that the lack of clarity is creating confusion and frustration among the crew.

Back in February, Puck News reporter Matthew Belloni was the first to report on the rift that was growing in the production.

“‘Yellowstone’ is really in limbo right now until they can figure out whether Costner is coming back or, more likely, whether he’s going to be written out of the show,” Belloni said. “Once that determination is made, they can finish writing the second half of this season, shoot it, and it will likely air in the fall.”

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US rock ‘n’ roll band Aerosmith have announced a farewell tour to mark more than five decades together.

The band, who are now all in their 70s, are well known for hits such as Dream On, Walk This Way and I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing.

They broke the “earthshattering” news in a starstudded video on Monday, featuring celebrity pals

including Sir Ringo Starr, Dolly Parton and Eminem.

“It’s not goodbye it’s peace out!” they declared in a joint statement.

“Get ready and walk this way, you’re going to get the best show of our lives.”

The 40-date run of shows across North America will begin in Philadelphia on 2 September 2023 and will end on 26 January 2024 in Montreal, via a New Year’s

Eve gig in their hometown, Boston.

But no UK/European tour dates have been announced so far.

“I think it’s about time,” guitarist Joe Perry, 72, told the Associated Press.

“It’s kind of a chance to celebrate the 50 years we’ve been out here. You never know how much longer everybody’s going to be healthy to do this.”

Jamie Foxx was filming in Atlanta, Georgia when the incident occurred

Kevin Costner

Costner “not returning”

Yellowstone

Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith Aerosmith: US rock band announce farewell tour

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DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 241-5795

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

CONTACT: 241-7198

Cleaning

CONTACT: 348-3581 OR 243-1051

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property With sweeper, pick up yard waste And collecting leaves, dispose of Trash, clean windows and door frames

Salary: $8.50/hr

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

DANESI

BABYSITTER

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

LABOURER

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

LongBay, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

To work as subcontractors for builders, such as (painting, tile, carpentry ect..

To ensure measurements and cuts are accurate, may also perform repair work and install hardware. Basic Salary:$8.00

Robinson Street, Five Cays, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

To assist in all basic cleaning, mopping, sweeping, and dusting. Laundering Clothes and preparing meals. Basic Salary: $8.00 hourly

BELONGERS CAN APPLY!

MYRANIE ST JUSTE 36297

DURELL LANDY

CONTACT: 241-9907

BELONGERS ARE

36245

Braiding clients’ hair in different styles.

Must be willing to work 6 days a week.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-7087

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD WORK PERMIT RENEWAL

DRYWALL FINISHER

Responsible for installing wallboards to ceilings or to interior walls of buildings and applying plaster.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 345-9859

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE

Mix and create drinks, maintain an accurate inventory and the ability to work with little or no supervision.

CONTACT: (649) 247-9909

EMAIL:INFO@HOGROAD.COM

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

(1)LABOURER

Duties: Cleaning outside the property with a sweeper, picking up yard waste and collecting leaves, disposing of trash, cleaning windows, and door frames.

Salary: $8 per hourly

CONTACT: (649) 341-1299

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Prep and prepare all meals at a timely manner and the ability to work with little or no supervision Salary:

CONTACT: (649) 247-9909

EMAIL:INFO@HOGROAD.COM

Salary: $10.00 hourly

UPHOLSTERER

Examine furniture frames, upholstery, springs and webbing to repair furniture and frames. $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 346-8381

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-6413

BELONGERS ARE

2 TAILORS

Salary:

SALOMON MORENCY

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-346-4624

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

RECEIVING CLERK

CONTACT: (649) 345-1036

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 342-4843

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-3796

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

$8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 345-5236

CONTACT:

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

$8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

TRACTOR OPERATOR

CONTACT: 242-2419

CONTACT: (649)241-2893

LABOURER

CONTACT: 241-1156

TWO DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Cleaning outside the property with a pickingsweeper, up yard waste and collecting leaves, disposing of trash, cleaning windows, and door frames.

Salary: $8 per hourly

CONTACT: (649) 244-1954

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED.

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT: 348-1832

STORE CLERK

Receive, price and display Stock

Must be able to move 40lbs boxes

Salary: $8.00 an hour

Both position will be required to work nights, long hours, weekends and holidays.

Ability to speak English, French, Spanish is preferred and other languages will be an advantage.

INTERESTED PERSON SHOULD FORWARD A LETTER OF APPLICATION AND RESUMES TO MURAD97@HOTMAIL.COM OR CALL 649-431-1689

JAMES HAMILTON ARCHITECTS

ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST

•

EMPLOYEE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• RIBA part

•

• Diploma in Architectural Technology and/or Architectural Technician.

•

• 1 year+ experience using Autodesk Dynamo.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

• Second language (Spanish or French)

• 4+ years using the Adobe suite.

• 1-2 years Sketchup experience.

• Ability to travel to the USA/Caribbean and South America.

Salary: $45,000.00 USD per annum Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

CONTACT: 649-232-3083 EMAIL: STUDIO@JAMESHAMILTONARCHITECTS.COM

OUTER REACH ADVENTURES LTD

Is seeking to employ an

EXPERIENCED VILLA CHEF REQUIRED

• 20+ years expertise with a minimum of 14yrs in high-end, exclusive restaurants/villas

• Thorough knowledge of worldwide cuisines and techniques.

• Proficiency in specialty diets essential.

• Candidates must have ordering, control, cost awareness and program knowledge

• Must possess food handling and HACCP certificates

• Ability to work weekends and holidays; full clean drivers’ license.

• Proficient in both Windows and Apple based programs

• Fluent English both reading and writing

Salary – to be determined based on experience

• Prepares medications

•

• Prepares medications by reviewing and interpreting physicians’ orders

• Must have minimum 5 years’ experience working in a Retail Pharmacy environment

• Skilled at interacting with customers of all socioeconomic backgrounds

• Ability to operate Point-of-Sale and Kroll programs

• Possesses excellent communications and interpersonal skills

• Competent and reliable professional, committed and experienced

SALARY: 50K PER ANNUM

CONTACT: 441-3791

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

CONTACT: 649-348-7631

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT: 345-0734

341-1629

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

Greets customers, receive payment, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 941-4202

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 941-4202

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY. RENEWAL

CHARLIE DEPOT 36322

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $10.00 hourly

Greets customers, receive payment, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is change.adequate

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY. RENEWAL

CHARLIE DEPOT 36323

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 649-242-8086

materials on floors, walls, ceilings, countertops. Level the surface with a layer of mortar or plywood.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

OPEN JOB POSITION

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

PAINTER

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Applies various finishes to buildings, rooms, or other structures, including primers or sealers.

• Prepares, cleans, and tapes all jobsites.

• Removes old paint coating, if necessary.

• Mixes colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency.

• Moves necessary materials around jobsite as assigned.

• Cleans up worksite debris.

• Using fillers such as putty and plaster to repair cracks. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

LABOURERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Maintains a clean kitchen, properly washes, and sorts soiled dishes. Keeps dish area free of clutter and organized.

• Sets up dish stations, including dish machines and sinks.

• Maintains clean/dry floors throughout the shift.

• Properly washes, stacks, and stores china, glassware, silverware, cookware, and storage containers.

• Changes water of machines and sinks every two hours, or more often as required by business levels, and properly uses chemical dilutions set by Ecolab.

• Maintains trash cans throughout shift and removes full trashcans and boxes at the end of each shift.

• Maintains the dry storage area and the organization of storage shelves.

• Follows the posted daily dish cleaning duties. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com: however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

DOMESTIC WORKERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Making sure all rooms are clean and in top condition for new arrivals and existing guests.

• Ensure lobbies, lounges, common areas, restrooms, corridors, stairways, locker rooms, and other work areas so that health standards are met.

• Disinfect equipment and supplies, using germicides or steam-operated sterilizers.

• Work quickly and efficiently so guests aren’t left hanging around.

• Liaise with the head housekeeper and supervisor when rooms are ready for guests.

• Ensure the equipment’s use, such as shampooers, polishers, and trolleys, is in good working condition.

• Being able to use the equipment safely and efficiently.

• Ability to bent, lift, and walk upstairs.

• Report on any shortages, damages, or security issues.

• Handle reasonable guest’s complaints/requests and inform head of department. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

DOMESTIC WORKERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Clean and tidy all areas to the standard cleanliness within time limits.

• Frequent bending, pushing, pulling, and kneeling.

• Re-set dinner rooms tables and terraces.

• Clean dining rooms tables and terraces.

• Clean windows, sweep floors, mop floors and polish furniture fixtures in and outside restaurant.

• Remove dinner wares, pushcart, and lift trays from dining rooms.

• Work cohesively with restaurant waiters, waitresses and supervisors.

• Work with minimum supervision and remain motivated. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

KITCHEN HELPER

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Perform combination of duties to maintain kitchen work areas, restaurant equipment, utensils clean and in an orderly condition.

• Wash worktables, walls, refrigerators, mop, sweep floors, and meat blocks.

• Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping, peeling vegetables and cutting meat etc.)

• Ensure all food and other items are stored properly.

• Proven experience as kitchen helper.

• Experience in using cutting tools, cookware and bake ware.

• Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods (grilling, baking, boiling etc.)

• Very good communication skills.

• Work cohesively with head chef and sous chefs. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour.

DATE OPEN: May 01st, 2023

LABOURERS

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming them.

• Gather and empty trash, service, clean, and supply restrooms

• Maintain Controlling stocks for daily use in the department (cleaning products, mop heads, etc.).

• Working within the constraints of Health and Safety and adhere to any Health and Safety policies.

• Perform nightly deep cleaning of common areas of resort; work overnight and split shifts.

• Participate in dishwashing, garbage removal, silver polishing, pot washing or any other areas as necessary in accordance with department needs.

• Ensure water temperature, and chemical level/proper uses of chemicals are appropriate for cleaning. Ability to work overnight shifts and splits.

• Collect towels from around beach and pool.

• Ability to multitask, responsible, organize, basic repairs and basic culinary skills.

• Ability to bent, stand for long hours and knowledge of cleaning equipment’s and machines.

• Ability to walk up and down stairs, bent, physical strength, stamina, and lifts 50lbs.

• Ability to comprehend and communicate in fluent English.

• Excellent communication skills through effectively communicating with guests and management.

This position is currently held by an expatriate worker.

Qualified Islanders can email their resume to turcrehu02@clubmed.com; however candidates must submit a copy of their resume to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2

Salary Range: $8.00 per hour

ESTATE MANAGER SANCTUARY LTD.

The Sanctuary, a 3-bedroom rental villa located in the private island of Parrot Cay, is looking for an Estate Manager. Employee would be required to wear “several hats” and to understand that the standard work hours and weeks do not apply to this position; Employee is expected to work on weekends and holidays as needed and to be always on call. Employee must be willing to live on site full time especially when the property is occupied (by both rental guests and owners) and during hurricane threats.

• in charge of the upkeep and day-to-day running of the property

• responsibility for management and supervision a team of maintenance, landscaping, and housekeeping

• Employee will have a diverse range of tasks which will include managing the team to keep the estate generally well run and maintained and maintaining safety and security on the estate.

• responsibility for finances and accounting - maintaining accurate records and accounts as required and reporting as agreed, responsibly use resources and control expenses to operate within budgetary controls, payroll, managing the cash, carry out tasks as human resources, purchasing and receiving agent

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum ten (10) years experience as a private estate or property manager with high end resorts, properties or other private homes

• Experience with celebrity clients

• Posses a thorough understanding of all areas of private home management and supervision of design, construction and major renovation

• Ability to monitor and manage household budget and finances

• Must be able to liaise with worldwide FBOs and jet charter and make travel arrangements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Meticulous attention to detail

• Strong accounting and computer background preferred

• Strong communication skills and conflict resolution

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Strong ability to work well in stressful, fast-paced and high-pressure situations

• Strong knowledge on F&B and butler service

• Ability to travel with minimum to zero notice

• Team player, multitasker, proactive, out of the box thinker, service oriented

• Must be willing to sign confidentiality agreement and undergo extensive background (including drug) checks

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and administrate operations of multiple properties for employer

• Monitor and manage household budgets and bank account(s)

• Handle household bills, petty cash, payroll, and administrative duties

• Communicate information, goals/objectives, wants/needs for Principal and organization

• Arrange appointments for personal and professional needs

• Organize Principal and guests: travel, advances, calendars, hospitality and services, etc.

• Look after all guests, main point person for any requests

• Work with private chef on menu plan and estimate food cost analysis

• System and procedure developments

• Serve as a go-to person for all staff to voice concerns, needs and problems that need to be addressed

• Oversee major renovation, design and land altering projects, in addition as requested act as liaison between employer and contractors

• Oversee security requirements

• Make sure all areas of the home are clean, organized and appear in the way of the homeowner wishes so that it’s ready to receive guests

• Oversee all household personnel and scheduling

• Oversee all ordering, shipping and inventory of supplies

• Overseeing hurricane preparedness

• Helping where needed when other staff is unavailable i.e. errands, airport pickups, setting the table, etc

Starting salary $55,000 per annum

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

Preference will be given to Turks & Caicos Islanders meeting the foregoing applications. Applicants are invited to copy the TCI Labour Board with applications

Our company is seeking Belongers only to apply to our different departments where they could see themselves working. Applicants must have some knowledge in the gaming field. Please bring down your CV’s or Resumes

1. Barmaid/bartenders’ salary $8.00 must be available week, weekends and holidays.

2. Cashiers’ salary $8.50 -$10:00 flexible shifts and hours which includes working holidays and weekends.

3. Route attendant/floor attendant salary $10.00 shifts and hour which include holidays and weekends.

4. Surveillance officer. Salary $10.00 Must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience and references.

5. Kitchen staff helpers and cooks $8.00

RENTAL SALES AGENTS FOR AVIS AND PAYLESS

Looking for a promising career in a fastpaced, customer-driven industry? Avis and Payless Car Rentals are currently seeking to employ Rental Sales Agents for immediate openings. This role is to provide unparalleled customer service by:

• Greeting and assisting customers and prospective customers.

• Completing car rental and return transactions.

• Selling of programs and services to customers and prospective customers at the counter.

• Assisting with fleet management and vehicle prep.

• Following established sales procedures and techniques.

• Identify and report vehicle damage.

• Displaying the ‘We Try Harder’ spirit at all times.

All individuals must possess the following:

• Exceptional customer service skills

• Valid Turks & Caicos Driver’s License

• Ability to work weekends and holidays

• Computer literacy (previous experience with reservations software

is a plus)

• Self-motivator with the ability to work with little supervision

Salary begins at $8.00 per hour (commensurate with experience and qualifications) with the potential for additional earnings through our commissions program. Belongers/ PRC holders preferred.

LABOURER

DUTIES INCLUDE:

• Daily maintenance of the buildings and surroundings

• Cleaning and repair of company facilities and equipment

• Stocking shelves, moving parts

• Unloading containers and or deliveries

• Able to drive a range of vehicles including buses, and manual vehicles

• Must be courteous at all times,

• Must have a valid driver’s license

• With little or no supervision

• Willing to work on weekends and holidays

• Salary range is from $7 to $10 per hour

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

South Dock Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

IS NOW HIRING

PRODUCE STOCKER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Knowledge on produce products and sanitary methods

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary ranges from $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

LABOURER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary ranges from $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

BUTCHER(S)

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale

• Cleaning and maintaining of tools and equipment.

• Ensuring displays are accurate and attractive.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Salary ranges from $9.00 per hour. This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN EMAIL THEIR RESUME

TO JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET OR SEND THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. BELONGERS NEED ONLY TO APPLY.

DIVA’S HAIR SALON AND NAILS

895 Windsor Place, Leeward Highway. Seeking

PEDICURIST

• Discuss nail treatments and services available.

• Clean, trim, polish, buff and file nails.

• Soften calluses and remove rough skin.

• Massage and moisturize hands and feet.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly CONTACT:

649-348-3504

Belongers only apply 36082

TECHNICAL MACHINE OPERATOR (PACKAGING)

Candidate must be qualified to associate degree (or equivalent) and have a minimum of 5 years working experience as a machine operator and technician. Candidate must have a working knowledge of bottle & can quality checks and the ability to conduct other product inline quality checks.

PRIMARY DUTIES INCLUDE

• Preventative Maintenance on Production Equipment

• Sanitation of production equipment and areas

• Product loss calculations

• First pass Quality inspections

• Team lead and down time analysis

Available to work 6 days per week including weekends when necessary. Trade test and competency programs will be included at interview stage. Remuneration is commensurate with experience, in the rage of $900.00 per week.

BOTTLED WATER PLANT PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

• Maintenance of machines (Ozone calibrations, filter changes, RO membrane replacement, etc.)

• Ensuring quality standards in water produced including in-house testing as well as third party testing.

• Ensuring equipment manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is adhered to (lubrication, seal replacements etc.)

• Parts replacement and repairs of machine when needed.

• Maintaining written records of maintenance on machinery preformed production totals etc.

• Ensure packaging standards are kept.

• Supervision of water packaging production crew (ensuring safety standards, cleanliness, procedures adhered to etc.

This position pays $50,000 per annum. Applicants must have prior experience in packaging operations and be familiar with general food and beverage quality control standards.

Applicants

DOSSOU CONSTRUCTION SOUTH DOCK ROAD Is seeking to employ a

MASON

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

Salary: $9.00

CONTACT: 346-7379

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board

A work permit holder currently holds this position 36112

E & V EQUIPMENT LTD.

Williams Auditorium, Five Cays Road, Providenciales Is seeking to employ

2 WELDERS

Fabricate and assemble metal structures and equipment using welders, cutters, and shapers and measuring tools. Salary: $550.00 weekly.

CONTACT:

649-941-8494

Belongers are to apply Renewal 36110

PROVO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

19 Bible Street, Blue Hills Rd.

Invites applicants for the following:

ELEMENTARY TRAINED TEACHERS

TEACHER APPLICANTS MUST:

• Be a committed born again Christian preferable of Baptist faith.

• Must be trained with a valid teacher’s certification or diploma in education.

• Teachers needed for kindergarten to grade 6.

Compensation: Base on qualification

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICS

CASSA TRUCKING

Five Cays, 3482268

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

Assisting driver with delivery such as lifting plywood, rebars, sands, blocks and garbage

LYNEAL GIBSON

241-6103, Kew Town

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00hourly

Domestic Worker cleaning the house, washing dishes, clothes, linen and caring for my home

THE GLAMOUR BEAUTY SALON

342-0052

Leeward Highway

HAIRSTYLIST

$8.00 Hourly

and experience $1,350.00-$2,000.00 monthly

JANITOR/ CLEANER

To provide janitorial services at the school 5 days per week at $8.00 hourly These positions are currently being held by work permit holders

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board Please submit all applications to: info@provochristianschool.com Phone: 941-5775. Deadline for applications is May 12,2023 36081

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

BJ BROTHERS CONTRACTING

332-6740

The Bight

LABOURER

$8.00

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

BUILDING MARTERIAL

Leeward Highway 946-4131

LABOURER

$8.08.hourly

unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

MAGDA SHOP

South Dock road 243-2275

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

LYNIKA’S CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

Five Cays, Sub Division 342-10759

LABOURER

$8.00 HOURLY

Attending to apartments need such as paint, cleaning and cleaning yards and collecting waste, cleaning office’s and villas

LUNIA SHOP

TIREMY Five Cays 232-9952

LABOURER

$8.00 hourly

Unloading containers, transporting goods to customer vehicles and assist customer with heavy lifting

BEEN MEP CO. LTD.

ELECTRICIANS, MAINTENANCE WORKER AND PLUMBERS

ELECTRICIANS must have a recognized qualification/ licence from a governing body in country of origin and at least 10 years experience on large commercial projects is essential. Duties will include electrical installations, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Electricians pay starting at $12.00 per hour.

PLUMBERS must have at least 10 years experience

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

PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO BEENMEP@TCIWAY.TC

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

GAMING LTD.

GENERAL MANAGER

The General Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the slots parlor and route operation and the overall profitability and sustainability of the same. The GM develops implements and manages strategic goals and monitors achievements of performance and profit objectives and ensures the compliance of all operational departments and the security of all operational departments and the security of all assets, customers and staff.

GM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for directing the overall day-to-day operations of the main slots parlor and route operational departments.

• Develops, implements and manages operational goals and monitors achievements of performance and profit objectives.

• Responsible for preparing, monitoring and adhering to budgets and ensuring compliance to departmental budget initiative. Reports budget concerns/deviations to the ownership and other senior management.

• Ensures floor layout stays current with industry product and machine variety/ mix is competitive within the regional market.

• Makes recommendation or implementation and oversight of overall strategies for overall engagement, customer service, comp ability, games layout and mix, revenue growth, and expense management in order to maximize profitability for all areas of responsibility.

• Responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory compliance within t heir area of responsibility.

• Responsible for staff development and training programs.

• Responsible for all marketing strategies, development and implementation.

• Responsible for rewards and recognition program to maximize employee engagement.

• Evaluate team members within the department and delivers constructive feedback to employees in regard to performance.

Bark & Bliss Ltd. is seeking a qualified individual for the following position. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to have a valid passport, the ability to travel globally, and pass a written skills test.

A work permit holder currently holds this position. Qualified belongers are invited to forward resumes to the Labour Board.

SENIOR VETERINARY TECHNICIAN SALARY:

$60,000 ANNUALLY

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

● Assist in diagnosis, treatment and intensive medical care for patients in need

● Assist in the treatment urgent and emergency medical and surgical cases

● Provide nursing care or emergency first aid to injured or recovering animals

● Restrain animals during exams or procedures

● Administer anesthesia to animals, and monitor their responses

● Collect laboratory samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, for testing

● Perform and interpret laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts

● Prepare animals and instruments for surgery

● Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments prescribed by a veterinarian

● Collect and record patients’ case histories

● Perform general hygiene procedures such as nail clipping, bathing, etc.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

● Must have an Associate Degree in Veterinary Technology

● 5+ years of experience in a veterinary clinic environment

● 5+ years of experience in high volume spay & neuter environments

● 5+ years of experience with modern diagnostic equipment and machinery

● Must be fluent (Written & Oral) in English

• Determines recommendation for staffing (including interviewing and hiring) and scheduling (planning, assigning and directing work) to meet business needs.

REQUIREMENTS

• Must have at least 5 years experience in a similar role.

• Must have a strong technical knowledge and background involving the instillation, repair and maintenance of slot machines, systems, surveillance and AV equipment.

• Must have a strong knowledge of CMS including player tracking and player development.

• Must have proven knowledge and experience at developing and managing marketing campaigns.

• Must have proven knowledge and experience of developing, implementing and managing projects.

• Ability to read, analyze and interpret data.

• Ability to provide guidance and leadership to senior management.

• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with community organizations. And government personnel.

• Excellent problem solving and negotiation skills and ability to work well under pressure.

• Must show excellent customer service skills and show the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers, subordinate, management and gaming regulatory organizations.

• Must be computer literate in Excel, word and outlook. Salary $5,000.00 monthly/$60,000.00 annually.

Selling

collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door

ALMAIDA HALL

Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a

FARMER

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

ALTAGRACE

JEAN BROWN

The Bight. Seeking

Cleaning, tractor driving, general handiwork, tending to livestock, ploughing, planting and harvesting crops. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT:

(649)231-5170

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 36174

THE BIGHT IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

EXPERT MASSEUSE/MASSAGE THERAPIST

● Applicant must be able to read, write and speak English

● Expertly versed in Balinese , Deep Tissue, Swedish and combination massage therapy

● Able to diagnose and apply massage therapy base on clients preference and needs.

● Have own transportation and massage

therapy equipment such as tables etc.

● Be reliable and have good time keeping skills

Remuneration and Salary based on experience & starts at minimum wage $8.00 per hour

● Must be available to work daily, drive and be flexible to accommodate outer island (North Caicos, etc) services.

CONTACT: 332- 9264

Interested applicants for this position, submit your application and cover letter to ayaniSpa.tci@gmail.com

C & C LIGHTBOURNE BROTHERS

Juba Sound. Is seeking

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-0947

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 36147

DOMESTIC WORKER

- $8.00 HOURLY

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

CONTACT:

649-348-5170

Belongers only apply 36126

ANDRE JEAN

FIVE CAYS

Is seeking to employ a

CAREGIVER

• Applicant must be very good with caring for the elderly.

• Bathing, feeding, washing, dispensing of medication and keeping the area clean at all times.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-1243

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board Renewal 36233

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

CC

BOUTIQUE KEW

HELPER

Clean the store, dusting, sweeping, mopping, clean ceiling vents, restroom cleaning, stock shelves, pick, pack, receive and restock products inside the store. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-0010

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-5815

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.

•

MAINTENANCE EMAIL:

• Knowledge in building maintenance.

LABOURER Cleaning

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.

THE PUBLISHER DUNCANSON PUBLICATIONS LTD. EMAIL: TCNEWS@TCIWAY.TC NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Preferences will be given to Belonger and Legal Residents FORWARD APPLICATIONS TO:

Constructing, installing, and repairing fixtures and structures made from wood and other materials. Utilize saws, drills, and sanders to repair. Salary: $8.00 per hour.

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5170

Help the patient get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications.

CONTACT: 333-1655

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

VILLA HOST

$15.00 Hourly

CHARITY PIERRE

Tel: 243-6016

DOMESTIC WORKER: General cleaning duties, etc. $8.00 Hourly

CAMCO ENTERPRISES LTD.

Greet guest and cleaning villas.

2 HOUSEKEEPERS

$8.00 Hourly

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

GENERAL MANAGER

Tel: 231-2363

FRONT OFFICE MANAGER

$15.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/WORK PERMIT RENEWAL

NATASHA’S CONSULTANCY 36374

SERVICE ADVISOR/CONCIERGE CLERK

JOB DESCRIPTION

Learn about the key requirements, duties, responsibilities, and skills that should be in a service advisor job description. The service advisor communicates with appointments customer and Concierge customers to determine their vehicles problems and the repair timeline and provides the technicians with accurate repair descriptions about the customers’ concerns. Also, to ensure our Concierge customers’ vehicles are delivered on time to the airport upon their arrival.

• Greetingcustomersvvhen comingto ourserMce department.

• Consulting with mechanics regarding necessary repairs and possible alternatives to expensive repairs.

• Using your knowledge of our products and services to sett or provide indepth information about avai\able parts and service options to customers.

• Answering questions about service outcomes and scheduling and booking appointments, vehicle drop- off, and vehicle pick-up.

• Providing customers with information and advice on warranty protections, potential cost savings, and the advantages of trading in versus fixing their car.

• Calling customers to advise them about service changes or car pick-up times.

• Maintaining positive customer relationships to ensure repeat business.

• Ensuring all details on services rendered and costs are related to customers and processing their payments.

• Liaising with service technicians about parts ordering and ensuring parts are available when needed.

SERVICE ADVISOR REQUIREMENTS:

• An associate degree in mechanics or a related field may be advantageous.

• Experience in the automotive field may be advantageous.

• A strong understanding of automotive technology and the automotive industry.

• Proficiency with industry-specific software.

• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.

• Strong organizational, decision making, and problem- solving skills.

The General Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the slots parlor and route operation and the overall profitability and sustainability of the same. The GM develops implements and manages strategic goals and monitors achievements of performance and profit objectives and ensures the compliance of all operational departments and the security of all operational departments and the security of all assets, customers and staff.

GM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for directing the overall day-to-day operations of the main slots parlor and route operational departments.

• Develops, implements and manages operational goals and monitors achievements of performance and profit objectives.

• Responsible for preparing, monitoring and adhering to budgets and ensuring compliance to departmental budget initiative. Reports budget concerns/ deviations to the ownership and other senior management.

• Ensures floor layout stays current with industry product and machine variety/ mix is competitive within the regional market.

• Makes recommendation or implementation and oversight of overall strategies for overall engagement, customer service, comp ability, games layout and mix, revenue growth, and expense management in order to maximize profitability for all areas of responsibility.

• Responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory compliance within t heir area of responsibility.

• Responsible for staff development and training programs.

• Responsible for all marketing strategies, development and implementation.

• Responsible for rewards and recognition program to maximize employee engagement.

• Evaluate team members within the department and delivers constructive feedback to employees in regard to performance.

• Determines recommendation for staffing (including interviewing and hiring) and scheduling (planning, assigning and directing work) to meet business needs.

• Responsible for the introduction of live games, staffing and casino practices and procedures.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have at least 5 years experience in a similar role.

• Must have a strong technical knowledge and background involving the instillation, repair and maintenance of slot machines, systems, surveillance and AV equipment.

• Must have a strong knowledge of CMS including player tracking and player development.

• Must have proven knowledge and experience at developing and managing marketing campaigns.

• Must have proven knowledge and experience of developing, implementing and managing projects.

• Ability to read, analyze and interpret data.

• Ability to provide guidance and leadership to senior management.

• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with community organizations. And government personnel.

• Excellent problem solving and negotiation skills and ability to work well under pressure.

• Must show excellent customer service skills and show the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers, subordinate, management and gaming regulatory organizations.

• Must be computer literate in Excel, word and outlook.

Salary $5,000.00 monthly/$60,000.00 annually.

Supervising Guest Service Agents, Night Auditors, and bell staff to ensure total guest satisfaction. Provide guidance and direction to all associates to ensure they are adhering to all hotel policies, standards, procedures and regulations. 36051

• The ability to communicate with mechanics, customers, and management. Salary: $2,550.00 Monthly

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

THIS IS FOR A FIRST TIME APPLICANT EMAIL: ELITETCI@GMAIL.COM.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

Minimum

SANTIAGUERO BARBER SHOP

Airport Road. Is seeking to employ a

BARBER - $8.00 HOURLY

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

NAIL TECHNICIAN - $8.00 HOURLY

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

HAIRDRESSER - $8.00 HOURLY

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

CONTACT: 333-1505

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 36173

MEP SUPERVISOR

• Have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the field of Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing supervision.

• Have experience running the MEP scope of work, for projects more than $100 million.

• Have worked in North America for a minimum of 8 years.

• Have intimate knowledge and experience working to the North America codes for electrical, plumbing and HVAC.

BARBARA JEANNE

STORE CLERK

Selling products and providing customer service. Greet customers and guide them in finding products they want to buy.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-4350

CLEANER

• Cleaning of

floors, doors and all other interior work.

• Applicant must be willing to work. Salary:

QUEEN OF WORLD LTD.

Unit F103 Regent Street, Grace Bay, Providenciales

BEAUTICIAN/COSMETOLOGIST

– $8.00 hourly

• Reception and Mall Attendance.

• Phone service and appointments.

• Hair styling and treatments.

• Skincare therapist, fat masseur, waxing, plasma application, mesoterapy botox, feet massage, skin laser therapy, Aesthetics RIF/PRP/FACIAS and make-up.

CONTACT: 946-5999 OR 242-2015

EMAIL: INFO@QUEENOFWORLD.COM

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

Work permit holders currently holds these positions 36228

PROVO PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL

Are looking to fill the following position:

TEACHER

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

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

Salary: $43,884 per annum.

SUBMIT RESUMES BY MAY 8TH 2023 PROVO PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL IGA PLAZA, LEEWARD HIGHWAY. T: 649 343-4716 W: PROVOPERFORMINGARTS.COM E: NIKIFLOWERS@GMAIL.COM THIS ADVERT IS FOR A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL, BUT QUALIFIED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

BEEN CONSTRUCTION

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

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 36222

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board Renewal 36237

CONTACT: 341-2178

TURQUOISE LANDSCAPING

#8 LEEWARD DRIVE, LONG BAY, PROVIDENCIALES

1 GARDENER & 1 LABOURER

• Must have previous gardening experience and be willing to carry out work such as heaving lifting, digging, and weeding, trimming and plant waste removal.

• Pay - $8.00 Hourly

1 IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN

• Must be familiar with commercial and residential irrigation systems and to provide maintenance as well as the design and set up of new irrigation installations.

• Must be a team player, fit and capable of standing up, bending, kneeling for up to 8hrs per day in hot outdoor conditions.

• Pay - $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-4280 OR EMAIL: TURQUOISELANDSCAPING@ TCIWAY.TC TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Renewals 36079

36197

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

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

ISLAND FIRE SUPPLIES LTD.

36193

FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN

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

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

Saltmills Plaza, Providenciales service.

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

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

• Must have a qualification in Fire Extinguisher maintenance and PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO IFS@TCIWAY.TC OR CALL 331 0732. THIS

TROPICAL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT (TROPICAL DMC)

GRACE BAY. IS IN NEED OF A

HANDYMAN

1) Carrying of all supplies to and from event locations

2) Setting up beach arches, canopy’s, and all structures

3) Stringing lights on the beach and at wedding restaurant locations.

4) Washing of company vehicles.

5) Set up and tear down at all events in which Tropical DMC has provided the services for. Raking the beach, carrying equipment, digging holes for beach arches, climbing ladders, hanging lighting, carrying large boxes etc. You will need to be in physical shape to do this part of the job as it is extremely labor intensive.

6) Cleaning of storage units once per week.

7) Assisting with cabling for all electronic work we do with sound systems and speakers.

The pay rate for this position is $10.00 per hour and is approximately 20 hours per week.

This position is for work permit renewal

TERESA BRUNNER

Turtle Cove, Providenciales tbrunner@tropicaldmc.com OR CALL 649-231-4161

Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the email above as well as to the Labor Department 36269

DRYWALL FINISHER

work

CONTACT: 243-6804

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-5564

Momentous Ltd. is seeking a qualified individual for the following position. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers, must have a valid passport, and be able to travel globally. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills and fluency (English) test. This position is currently occupied by a Work Permit holder. Qualified Turks Islander applicants are invited to forward resumes to the Labour Board. Applications can be submitted online at www.momentous.com.

BOOKKEEPING CLERK MOANA CHARTERS LTD.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Recording day to day financial transactions and completing the posting process

• Verifying that transactions are recorded in the correct day book, suppliers ledger, customer ledger and general ledger

• Bringing the books to the trial balance stage

• Record day to day financial transactions and complete the posting process

• Verify that transactions are recorded in the correct day book, suppliers ledger, customer ledger and general ledger

• Bring the books to the trial balance stage

• Perform partial checks of the posting process

• Complete tax forms

• Enter data, maintain records and create reports and financial statements

• Process accounts receivable/payable and handle payroll in a timely manner

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven bookkeeping experience

• Solid understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting payable/ receivable principles

• Hands-on experience with spreadsheets and proprietary software

• Proficiency in English and in MS Office

• Customer service orientation and negotiation skills

• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail

Salary: $24,000.00 per annum

All interested applicants must submit their resume to: jmurray@ karammissick.com and the TCI Employment Service and Labour Department. This position is currently vacant.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

● Overall management of day-to-day business operations

● Maintain current corporate documents and manage all corporate filings

● Manage and negotiate all contracts (i.e. Leases) and policies (i.e. Insurance)

● Liaise with suppliers for general office functions and maintain inventory

● Create and interpret reports (i.e. financial, inventory, clients)

● Provide high-quality administrative and clerical assistance to top-level executives

● Business analytics, reporting, and suggestions; financial and operational

● Website development, dns management, domain and subdomain creation

● Maintain and support all IT, including network and email setups and management, as well as hardware and software installation

● Domain portfolio management

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

● 10+ years of working in an operations role within an office environment

● 10+ years experience with business analytics and reporting

● 10+ years of advanced experience with Adobe Pro and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, Powerpoint, etc.)

● 10+ years reviewing contracts and leases

● 10+ years creating and implementing systems and procedures

● 10+ years creating and maintaining training and policy manuals

● 10+ years of inventory tracking and supply orders

● 10+ years of website development experience, WordPress preferable

● 5+ years experience with marketing, social media, Canva, Photoshop, photo editing, and photography

● 5+ years managing, supervising, and maintaining physical premises

● 5+ years working directly with the owner/s and/or director/s

● 5+ years building relationships with suppliers

● 5+ years of creating and managing budgets and projects

● Domain industry knowledge required, including dns, czds, tlds, ngtlds, etc

● Familiarity and capability to create domains and subdomains with use of FileZilla

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

Science & Technology

DASH diet ranked No. 1 for heart health, report says

The American Heart Association did a ranking of the 10 most popular diets for heart health and found that the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension or DASH diet was ranked No. 1 with a score of 100.

The association looked at existing diets and “measured them against the standards that we use,” said Dr. Ameya Kulkarni, a cardiologist with Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest nonprofit healthcare providers in the nation.

Specifically, researchers examined 10 common diets and split them into tiers based on the positive impact they had on overall heart health.

“The main guidelines included low-salt, low-

fat, minimal alcohol and balanced fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates and ptroteins,”

Kulkarni said. “They found that there are a couple of diets that are probably better for your long-term health than others.”

The DASH diet, which came out on top, prioritizes vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds and low-fat dairy, and it’s supported by doctors, clinicians and nutritionists.

Also, it encourages “people to limit certain things like really salty foods, or fatty meats or foods that are rich in sugar, like soft drinks,” Washington Post health columnist Anahad O’Connor told WTOP.

“It’s daily advice for reducing hypertension,”

Kulkarni said.

O’Connor said that the DASH diet is great because it’s adaptable and not

MECHANIC

Transport clients. Inspecting vehicles for mechanical issues relating to safe operation, and basic repair work.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5965

extremely restrictive, and can be adapted based on your personal or cultural preferences, adding that it’s

affordable, as well.

According to the report, a Mediterranean style diet was ranked No. 2 while the paleo

and keto diets were ranked the two worst because they tend to restrict a lot of heart healthy foods.

Windsong Resort, located on Stubbs Road, Grace Bay would like to fill the below positions:

LOSS PRESENTATION OFFICER

GENERAL JOB DUTIES BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

Patrol all areas of the property; assist guests as needed. Monitor all security systems, and fire life system. Lock property when required. Conduct daily physical hazard inspections. Respond to accidents, contact EMS or administer first aid/CPR as required. Assist guest/employees during emergency situations. Report to scenes of vehicle accidents/thefts. Notify appropriate individuals in the event of accidents, attacks, or other incidents.

Defuse guest/employee disturbances and escort any unwelcome persons from the property without interrupting the orderly flow of property operation. Maintain confidentiality of all Security/Loss Prevention and property reports/ documents. Release information only to authorized individuals. Conduct investigations and gather evidence.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE /SKILLS/ JOB

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5 years of Security experience

• Excellent communication

• Flexible to work any shift especially nights.

• Possess reliable transportation.

• Professionally well-groomed with a clean Police Record is a must.

SALARY

• Salary - commensurate with experience between $10 to $10.50 per hour

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Email resume and cover letter to hr@windsongresort.com or drop off resumes at Windsong Resort, Stubbs Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales

*Prospective applicants who are Belongers are asked to send copies of their applications to the Labor Board.

HERITAGE

CLAIMS ADJUSTER

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

QUALIFICATIONS: General Automotive Knowledge,

Is seeking a experienced in auto damage appraisals and inspections. Having Prior claims experience and insurance background is a plus. Detail oriented and have excellent customer service - written and verbal communication skills, Able to prioritize and balance multiple projects simultaneously, Have a great attitude and a team player. Be computer literate. Multi-lingual (Creole/Spanish) is a plus!

Science & Technology

New Alzheimer’s drug slows disease by a third

We could be entering the era of Alzheimer’s treatments, after the second drug in under a year has been shown to slow the disease.

Experts said we were now “on the cusp” of drugs being available, something that had recently seemed “impossible”.

The company Eli Lilly has reported its drug - donanemabslows the pace of Alzheimer’s by about a third.

However two volunteers, and possibly a third, died as a result of dangerous swelling in the brain.

STICKY GUNK

Donanemab works in the same way as lecanemab, which created headlines around the world when it was the proven to slow the disease.

Both are antibodies like those the body makes to attack viruses. But these are engineered to clear a sticky gunk from the brain, called beta amyloid.

Amyloid builds up in the spaces between brain cells, forming distinctive plaques that are one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s.

“The decades-long battle to find treatments that change Alzheimer’s disease is changing,” Dr Cath Mummery, the clinical lead for the cognitive-disorders clinic at

the UK’s National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, said.

“We are now entering the time of disease modification, where we might realistically hope to treat and maintain someone with Alzheimer’s disease, with longterm disease management rather than palliative and supportive care.”

The full details of Eli Lilly’s trial have yet to be published - but it has revealed the key findings:

1,734 people in the earliest

stages of Alzheimer’s took part Donanemab was given as a monthly infusion until the distinctive plaques in the brain were gone · The pace of the disease was slowed by about 29% overalland by 35% in a set of patients researchers thought more likely to respond Those given the drug also retained more of their day-today lives such as being able to discuss current events, drive or

pursue hobbies

However, brain swelling was a common side-effect in up to a third of patients.

It was mostly mild or asymptomatic despite being detected on brain scans - but 1.6% developed dangerous brain swelling, with two deaths directly attributed to it and a third volunteer dying after such a case.

“We are encouraged by the potential clinical benefits that donanemab may provide, although like many effective treatments for debilitating and fatal diseases, there are associated risks that may be serious and life-threatening,” Eli Lilly group vice-president of neuroscience research and development Dr Mark Mintun said.

The company said it would begin the process of having its drug approved for use in hospitals in the next few months.

Dr Liz Coulthard, from the University of Bristol, said there were “significant side-effects” and a lack of long-term data but the drug could “help people live well with Alzheimer’s for longer”.

‘THOUGHT IMPOSSIBLE’

Having two drugs slow the disease by targeting amyloid in the brain

has also convinced scientists they are on the right track after decades of misery and failure.

“This should dispel any lingering doubts about this approach,” Prof John Hardy, from the UK Dementia Research Institute, whose work led to the idea of targeting amyloid, 30 years ago, said. “Having two drugs is great for competition.”

Dr Susan Kolhaas, from Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We’re now on the cusp of a first generation of treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, something that many thought impossible only a decade ago.”

However, these drugs appear to work in only the earliest stages of the disease - before the brain is too damaged.

And if they are approved in the UK, it would still take a revolution in how the disease is diagnosed to make a difference.

Only 1-2% of people have either brain scans or a spinal-fluid analysis to determine whether they actually have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia against which the drugs would be useless.

And the NHS would have to decide whether it could afford them. Lecanemab costs more than £21,000 per person per year. (BBC)

Climate change: Spain breaks record temperature for April

Spain recorded its hottest ever temperature for April on Thursday, hitting 38.8C according to the country’s meteorological service.

The record figure was reached in Cordoba airport in southern Spain just after 15:00 local time (14:00 BST).

For days a blistering heatwave has hit the country with temperatures 10-15C warmer than expected for April.

It’s been driven by a mass of very hot air from Africa, coupled with a slow moving weather system.

“This is not normal. Temperatures are completely out of control this year,” Cayetano Torres, a spokesman for Spain’s meteorological office, told BBC News.

Experts were surprised by the scale of the heat experienced across southern Spain in recent days.

“This heat event in Spain is absolutely extreme, unprecedented with temperatures never seen before in April. In some locations records are being beaten by a 5C margin, which is something that has happened only a handful of times at weather stations around

the world,” said Maximiliano Herrera, a climatologist who runs an Extreme Temperatures twitter account.

Schools will be allowed to adapt their timetables to avoid the worst of the heat. The Madrid underground has trains passing more frequently than usual in order to prevent long waits on the platform, and public swimming pools are expected to open a month earlier than normal.

Cristina Linares, a scientist at the Carlos III Health Institute, warned in particular of the impact on the poor.

“Poverty is the key factor when it comes to explaining why there are more deaths associated with extreme temperatures. Income is the factor with the closest link to the impact of heat on day-to-day deaths.”

Heatwaves are also striking many locations globally as climate change exacerbates naturally high temperatures.

While parts of Britain are cooler than average right now, the opposite is the case in many regions of Spain.

Meteorologists say that

a combination of factors is responsible for the exceptional temperatures being seen there this week.

Hot weather across North Africa is pushing heat into Europe. A high pressure weather system plus clear

skies over the Iberian peninsula are allowing more sunshine to hit the ground, which is already so dry it can’t evaporate the heat.

The high temperatures come on top of long running drought in many parts of Spain. Reservoirs in

the Guadalquivir basin are only at 25% of capacity.

This combination is raising the prospect of early forest fires, with the national weather service

The company Eli Lilly has reported its drug - donanemabslows the pace of Alzheimer’s by about a third

Umbrellas to ward off the heat in Seville this week

Science & Technology

Regular internet use may be linked to lower dementia risk in older adults, study says

IF your parents or grandparents ask you how to post on Instagram or how to send a birthday message to a Facebook friend, a new study suggests you might want to help them – not just to be nice but because getting them online may help their brain health, too.

A study published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society suggested that older people who regularly used the internet were less likely to develop dementia.

The researchers saw this association after about eight years tracking 18,154 adults between the ages of 50 and 65 who did not have dementia when the study period began.

The adults were a part of the Health and Retirement Study, a multidisciplinary collection of data from a representative sample of people in the US that is gathered by the National Institute on Aging and the Social Security Administration.

Each of the participants was asked a simple question: “Do you regularly use the World Wide Web, or the Internet, for sending and receiving e-mail or for any other purpose, such as making purchases, searching for information, or making travel reservations?”

People who used the internet at the start of the study had about half the risk of dementia as people who were not regular users.

The researchers also looked at how often these adults were online, from not at all to more than eight hours a day. Those who used the internet for about two hours or less a day had the lowest risk of dementia compared with those that didn’t use the internet, who had a “notably higher estimated risk.”

People who used the internet at the start of the study had about half the risk of dementia as people who were not regular users

The researchers noted that people who were online six to eight hours a day had a higher risk of dementia, but that finding wasn’t statistically significant, they said, and more research is needed.

Scientists still don’t know what causes dementia, so the new research can’t pinpoint the exact connection between internet usage and brain health. Study co-author Dr Virginia W. Chang has a few ideas.

“Online engagement may help to develop and maintain cognitive reserve, which can in turn compensate for brain aging and reduce the risk of dementia,” said Chang, an associate professor of global public health at New York University’s School of Global Public Health.

The study also did not look at what people were exploring online. Although the internet is full of cat videos and conspiracy theories, it can also be intellectually

stimulating, and some studies have shown that intellectual stimulation may help prevent dementia. A 2020 study found an association between cognitively stimulating jobs and a lower risk of dementia, for example.

As people age, it’s natural for brain processing speeds to slow a little, and it may get harder to remember what’s on all those open browser tabs on your computer. But in a healthy brain, routine memory and knowledge remains pretty stable. People with dementia have trouble with routine brain functions like making new memories, solving problems and completing normal tasks.

About 6.2 million people 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. That number is expected to grow exponentially as baby boomers age.

“Overall, this is important

research. It identifies another potentially modifiable factor that might influence dementia risk,” said Dr. Claire Sexton, the Alzheimer’s Association’s senior director of scientific programs and outreach, who was not involved in the new study. “But we wouldn’t want to read too much into this study in isolation. It doesn’t establish cause and effect.”

Beyond medications, experts have been looking for ways to help people keep dementia at bay.

The Alzheimer’s Association is working on the US Pointer Study, a two-year clinical trial to pinpoint exactly what lifestyle interventions may lower a person’s risk of dementia.

Risk factors like family history and age can’t be changed, but scientists think there are some healthy behaviours that can reduce the risk of this kind of cognitive decline.

Lifestyle factors like exercise, getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, keeping blood pressure in check, managing blood sugar, quitting smoking and staying engaged with others may help. Internet surfing isn’t one of the official activities listed by the CDC, but the new study adds to the growing body of evidence that suggests more research could better establish this connection.

The new research isn’t the first to find that the use of the internet may help reduce cognitive decline. One 2020 study found only a smaller cognitive decline in male internet users. Others have not seen a gender difference.

In the latest study, the difference in risk between regular users and those who did not use the internet

regularly did not vary by gender, level of education, or race or ethnicity.

Some studies have also shown a benefit to training older adults on computers and have suggested that the internet can positively connect them to others and help them learn information or skills.

Research also suggests that most older adults most frequently use the internet for basic tasks like email, news or online banking. But a growing number are learning newer social platforms like BeReal or dancing and singing on TikTok. And learning new skills may be protective against dementia, studies suggest.

The new research isn’t the first to find that the use of the internet may help reduce cognitive decline. One 2020 study found only a smaller cognitive decline in male internet users. Others have not seen a gender difference.

In the latest study, the difference in risk between regular users and those who did not use the internet regularly did not vary by gender, level of education, or race or ethnicity.

Some studies have also shown a benefit to training older adults on computers and have suggested that the internet can positively connect them to others and help them learn information or skills.

Research also suggests that most older adults most frequently use the internet for basic tasks like email, news or online banking. But a growing number are learning newer social platforms like BeReal or dancing and singing on TikTok. And learning new skills may be protective against dementia, studies suggest. (CNN)

Climate change: Spain breaks record temperature ...

warning that large swathes of the country would be at risk. Spain saw the most land burned of any country in Europe in 2022.

Climate change is very likely playing a role in this heatwave, according to experts in the field.

“We know that 2022 was the second warmest year on record for Europe, and it was the warmest summer on record,” Dr Samantha Burgess from the Copernicus climate change service told BBC News.

“Europe is warming at twice the global rate and we know

because there is a higher rate of warming, there’s a higher probability of extreme events. And those extreme events include heat waves.”

As well as the impact on young and old, another concern is agriculture.

Many farmers are experiencing difficulties due to the ongoing lack of rain, with the government in Madrid asking the European Union for financial help.

Some landowners say they won’t plant crops due to the dry conditions, which could have

implications for food supplies across Europe.

This heatwave in Spain is not an isolated event - all across the world high temperatures in the first few months of this year have shattered records.

Eight countries in central and eastern Europe set new all time highs for the warmest January weather on the very first day of this year.

Countries across Asia have seen extreme heat in recent weeks. In northwest Thailand, the temperature hit 45.4C on 15

April, while in Laos it reached 42.7C.

In Bangladesh, the capital Dhaka saw the mercury rise above 40C, believed to be the hottest day in 58 years.

Another factor likely to influence weather across the world over the coming months is the likely onset of an El Niño event.

This will see more heat emerge in the Pacific ocean off the coast of Peru. If it happens, then 2024 might emerge as the world’s warmest year on record, with more storms, fires and floods.

“It seems we are living in a world of a new normal here,” said Dr Fahad Saeed, from research organisation, Climate Analytics.

“These people in regions like Asia are the people who have been adapting to these kinds of extreme temperatures for thousands of years, but its is now getting beyond their ability to adapt.”

“That’s why we are witnessing rising death rates due to heat each year in this part of the world.” (BBC)

Science & Technology

Brain scans of dying patients may reveal what happens when we die

What happens when you die only you will ever know — because once it happens, there is usually no coming back and telling anyone about it. For the very rare occasions in which someone technically dies and is resuscitated, their stories can be otherworldly: those who’ve seen the so-called “other side” report golden tunnels of light, encounters with angelic beings, echoing voices and even the appearance of deceased relatives. These reports intrigue scientists because they are common across multiple cultures, regardless of religious background; but given their nature, they aren’t easy to study. To do so, you would have to record someone’s brain waves right as they were about to die, and be ready for that moment.

Which is exactly what researchers did in a new study.

Published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, the study describes the brain activity of four patients as they died in the neurointensive care unit at the University of Michigan. The researchers used an EEG, or electroencephalogram, a device that records the electrical activity of the brain using small, metal discs called electrodes that are affixed to the scalp. It translates the communication between neurons into squiggly lines, which can tell us something about what’s happening inside someone’s skull — although it’s also quite limited technology and not even close to mind reading.

Each of the patients was comatose with essentially no chance of recovery. Life support was removed with the approval of the patients’ family members. Three were women between the ages of 24 and 77 and one was an

86-year-old man.

So what actually happened upon death? Well, when ventilators were removed from two of the patients, their heart rates shot up accompanied by a surge in gamma waves, which are forms of highfrequency electrical activity in the brain.

Gamma waves are associated with waking consciousness, especially working memory processes and attention. Distortions in these neural ripples are associated with disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, as well as hallucinations and epileptic seizures. People with schizophrenia, for example, experience “spontaneous” bursts of gamma activity.

What’s more, the location of these waves in the dying patients’ brains are also intriguing. In both

patients, these gamma waves were localised to areas of the brain — specifically regions where the temporal, parietal, and occipital (TPO) lobes meet — associated with processing auditory, sensory and visual information. But these brain waves were also “global” meaning they spread out to other parts of the brain, connecting different parts of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex.

All of these regions are considered important because they enable numerous cognitive functions associated with perception. In a sense, all of reality — or what we think it is — can be condensed to how these lobes interact.

“Because this posterior cortical zone activated in dreaming largely overlaps with that identified in

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

waking, the TPO junctions are considered a ‘hot zone’ for the neural correlates of consciousness,” the authors write.

Of course, neuroscience is incredibly complicated and it’s not always easy to reduce what is happening in one part of the brain to actual consciousness. In other words, just because one part of the brain is lighting up doesn’t necessarily mean that a specific process is actually occurring. Our brains aren’t as neatly compartmentalised as popularly believed and any cognitive phenomena are incredibly complicated. We know far, far less about these relationships in a brain that is dying.

Nonetheless, the fact that gamma waves were triggered during death in these regions is quite remarkable. However, what all this means isn’t exactly easy to tease out. It could indicate that near-death experiences are a result of this kind of brain chatter. The whole experience of meeting Jesus or your dead grandparents could be explained by this strange brain activity. After all, the brain does produce its own psychedelic drugs, though typically in trivial amounts — maybe a squirt of DMT is what people who have near death experiences receive.

Or these gamma waves could just be random signals or bursts of electrical energy that don’t mean much. The dying patients may not have been actually aware, or experiencing anything. They were already dead or dying. Either way, it’s a jump to say. It’s worth noting that both patients had a history of seizures, though there were no such episodes within the 24 hours leading up to their death and their bodies did not move in an epilepticlike fashion.

“How vivid experience can emerge from a dysfunctional brain during the process of dying is a neuroscientific paradox,” Dr Jimo Borjigin, an associate neurology professor and the study’s lead author said in a statement. “We are unable to make correlations of the observed neural signatures of consciousness with a corresponding experience in the same patients in this study. However, the observed findings are definitely exciting and provide a new framework for our understanding of covert consciousness in the dying humans.”

Their research correlates with previous research published a

decade ago by Borjigin in which rats were surgically implanted with electrodes, injected with anesthesia and a mixture of potassium chloride, which caused the animals’ hearts to stop. Similar to the dying humans, the rats experienced a “transient and global surge of synchronized gamma oscillations,” which are the same signals observed in the two patients.

While this is a pretty small sample size of just two individuals — and notably, the other two patients didn’t experience such a surge in gamma waves — it isn’t easy finding someone who is about to die while also being able to scan their brain. A previous study published last year in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience was the first to ever describe the brain waves of a dying patient in any detail. It was also completely accidental. The researchers were studying the patient’s brain waves for an unrelated reason when he, an 87-year-old man, died unexpectedly from a heart attack.

The researchers were able to record what happened because the patient had a “do not resuscitate” order, meaning doctors weren’t allowed to try to revive him. They reported similar gamma wave activity, but also changes in other signals in the brain. The more recent study sheds more detail on what happens as people die, but it’s still quite a jump to say anything specific about what these individuals may or may not have been experiencing.

“Since it was observed in patients during the dying process,” Borjigin and her colleagues write, “we cannot rule out the possibility that the surge of gamma power is a sign of a pathological process unique to the dying stage and unrelated to conscious processing. Mechanism and function of the observed gamma power surge during the dying process warrant further investigation.”

Because of their rarity and association with death, it’s not easy to study this kind of thing, but as the researchers note, this may be the closest we ever get to answering this question. Unlike euthanizing rats, it’s very unlikely a similar study would ever be approved in humans. Of course, much more research is warranted, difficult as it may be and this study lays the groundwork for future research into the strange obscurity of consciousness and death.

Computer artwork of an ECG (electrocardiogram) trace in front of a human brain

Sports International

Messi to leave Paris St-Germain at end of season

Lionel Messi will leave Paris StGermain this summer at the end of his current contract.

The Argentine World Cup winner had reached an ‘agreement in principle’ to extend his stay for another year but neither club nor player now want to sign the deal.

Messi is unconvinced the club can compete at the top of the European game, due to financial issues, while the French champions want to focus on developing young talent.

He signed a two-year deal in Paris in 2021 with an option to renew for another year but that will now not be activated.

It is understood his father Jorge Messi informed Paris St-Germain’s football advisor Luis Campos a few weeks ago.

The player believes PSG’s budget could be limited next

season to comply with Financial Fair Play rules - putting the quality of their squad at risk.

His reluctance to commit to a new deal in recent months has frustrated PSG’s Qatari owners, who believe Messi’s lack of response was a clear message he didn’t want to stay

The 35-year-old was suspended by PSG for two weeks on Tuesday after travelling to Saudi Arabia without the club’s permission.

Barcelona and Messi would be keen on securing a dream return for the forward to the Nou Camp but, with the La Liga leaders facing severe financial difficulties, a move back ‘home’ looks increasingly unlikely.

He also has interest from Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and an eyewatering offer of about

Lionel Messi helped Paris St-Germain win the Ligue 1 title last season

400m euros (£354m) to play in Saudi Arabia for a year with AlHilal.

Messi though believes he can still compete at the top of European football for another seasoneyeing the chance to win a fifth Champions League trophy - but, with a move to Barcelona looking impossible, his options are looking

increasingly limited.

Messi has scored 31 goals and contributed 34 assists in 71 games in all competitions for PSG, and won the Ligue 1 title last season. He is set to miss matches against Troyes and Ajaccio as PSG, five points clear with five games to go, look to clinch a ninth league title in 11 seasons.

Messi, Barcelona’s all-time top scorer with 672 goals in 778 games, left the Nou Camp in 2021 because of financial issues at the club.

He is favourite to win an eighth Ballon d’Or in October, which is three more than any other player, after winning the World Cup with Argentina in December. (BBC)

Raducanu out of French Open and Wimbledon after hand and ankle surgery

BRITISH number one Emma Raducanu will miss the French Open and Wimbledon while she recovers from hand and ankle surgery “for the next few months”. She posted a photo of herself in hospital with her right hand bandaged after a “minor procedure”, saying she was having one on the left too.

Raducanu, 20, has been hampered by a series of injuries since her stunning 2021 US Open victory.

“It pains me to say I will miss the summer events,” she wrote.

“I tried to downplay the issues so I thank all my fans who continued to support me when you did not know the facts,” Raducanu wrote in a social media post.

“It is is safe to say the last 10 months have been difficult as I dealt with a recurring injury on a bone of both hands.

“I tried my best to manage the pain and play through it for most of this year and end of last year by reducing practice load dramatically, missing weeks of training as well as cutting last season short to try to heal it. Unfortunately it is not enough.”

The hand problems - involving a bone very close to the wristsbrought an early end to her season in 2022 and have since flared up at

various points this year, including last week when she withdrew from the Madrid Open just hours before she was scheduled to play her firstround match.

She is set to drop out of the top 100 in the world rankings next week and is likely to be replaced by Jodie Burrage as British number

one in the coming weeks.

She will miss the French Open, which starts later this month, as well as the grass-court season including Wimbledon.

“I’m disappointed to share that I will be out for the next few months and while I am at it I will have another minor procedure that is

due on my ankle,” said Raducanu, who rolled her left ankle playing on a slick indoor court in her first event of the year in Auckland.

“Looking forward to seeing you all back out there.”

While the hope is that she will be back on the training court at the end of the summer, it means that

her participation remains doubtful for the US Open, which gets under way at the end of August.

Raducanu’s management team say Wednesday’s procedure on her right, racquet-playing hand was straightforward and there should be no concerns about her long-term recovery.

She is likely to have the operation on her left ankle before the procedure on her left hand. The second hand operation is expected to take place in the next two weeks, to ensure she always has one hand free for everyday tasks.

After her incredible run to the US Open title in September 2021, where she became the first qualifier to win and also did so without dropping a set, Raducanu’s bid to build on that success has been repeatedly derailed by a series of injuries, niggles and illness.

They have stopped her making deeper runs at tournaments, with the Briton failing to go beyond the second round at any of the Grand Slams since her New York triumph and she has also not won any more titles on the tour.

Her withdrawal from the Madrid event last week came the day after a tense news conference, where she used just 58 words to answer 16 questions, several of which were about her fitness. (BBC)

Emma Raducanu posted a photo of herself with her racquet-playing hand bandaged after the first surgery

Players told to ‘sit it out’ under new concussion guidance

Anyone with suspected concussion must be immediately removed from football, rugby and other sports and rest for at least 24 hours, under new guidance for grassroots clubs.

It says the NHS 111 help-line should be called and players should not return to competitive sport for at least 21 days.

The UK-wide guidelines are aimed at parents, coaches, referees and players.

Its authors say a “culture change” in the way head injuries are dealt with is needed.

“We know that exercise is good for both mental and physical health, so we don’t want to put people off sport,” Prof James Calder, the surgeon who led the work for the government, said.

“But we need to recognise that if you’ve got a head injury, it must be managed and you need to be protected, so that it doesn’t get worse.”

WHAT IS CONCUSSION?

Concussion - a traumatic brain injury affecting mental functioncan alter the way someone thinks, feels and remembers things.

Only about 10% result in being knocked out and losing consciousness.

Effects are usually temporary and most people recover fully with rest.

The guidance, drawn up by a government-appointed panel of sports-medicine experts, is based

on work in Scotland, which has had its own official recommendations in place since 2015.

It says anyone with a head injury must be removed from playing and not participate in any further exercise or work activity until they have been checked by a onsite health professional or contacted the NHS 111 help-line.

If the player displays “redflag” symptoms - such as loss of consciousness, amnesia or difficulty speaking - they must be urgently assessed at the side of the pitch by a medic or taken to an accident-andemergency (A&E) unit.

Work to draw up new recommendations for all sports began after the death of Ben Robinson, 14, from Carrickfergus, County Antrim, in 2011, who collapsed near the end of a school rugby match.

His death had resulted from “second-impact syndrome”, a rare condition where the brain swells rapidly after suffering multiple concussions in a short period of time, a coroner found.

Ben’s father, Peter, has been campaigning to raise awareness of the risks ever since.

“Concussion is a brain injury and all concussions are serious,” he told BBC News.

“Most people recover to 100% and they are back playing their sport. But it’s the mismanagement of that injury that can lead to tragic circumstances, as with Ben’s case.

“There’s a risk in all sports.

But with greater awareness and education, we are moving forward and making it a safer place.”

For 24 hours after being removed from the game, the new guidance says, the injured player must not: be left alone drink alcohol drive a car

The advice is also to minimise smartphone and computer use for at least 48 hours, as staring at a screen can lengthen recovery time.

The panel had had “big debates” about how long players should remain on the sidelines, amid concerns some may cover up or disguise the extent of their injuries, Prof Calder said.

“There has now been a realisation that washing someone with a magic sponge is not the right approach. If you feel there has been a concussion, that player should be removed,” he said.

“’If in doubt, sit them out,’ is the new mantra.”

PROFESSIONAL RUGBY

The NHS and most sports authorities do not routinely collect data on the number of concussions in grassroots sport.

But the charity Headway estimates 1.4 million people attend A&E in England and Wales with some type of head injury each year, with 95% of those classed as mild.

Data from the Rugby Football Union (RFU) suggests a team of 15to 18-year-olds will have a player concussed once in every 10 games on average, rising to one in every two or three in professional rugby.

The new national guidance is designed as a base set of recommendations for all sports, which individual governing bodies can then add to if required.

The RFU already runs its Headcase programme to raise awareness of concussion, while rules lowering the legal tackle height in community rugby are due to come into force from July.

The Football Association introduced its own concussion

guidelines in 2015. More recently it said under-12s should not be taught to head balls in training, while in England the advice in the adult game is fewer than 10 “maximum-force” headers in practice each week.

Headway’s chief executive, Luke Griggs, described the guidelines as an “important step” but warned they needed to be accompanied by a full public health campaign.

“This cannot start and stop with a document put on a government website or emailed to clubs,” he said.

“This has to be a hearts and minds campaign to get people to understand the very important reasons for these guidelines.”

Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said: “One of the things we’ll now be doing is reviewing how well this guidance has been absorbed and understood.

“If there are tweaks we need to make, then of course we will do that.” (BBC)

Russia announces plans to stage ‘World Friendship Games’ after 2024 Olympics

Russia plans to stage an international multi-sport event by relaunching the ‘World Friendship Games’ in 2024.

After the invasion of Ukraine, Russian and Belarusian athletes were widely banned from international sport.

However, the International Olympic Committee has recommended both countries’ athletes are allowed to compete under a neutral flag.

The Friendship Games were first organised by the Soviet Union and eight other countries in 1984. They involved states which had boycotted that year’s summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Announcing plans for an event after the Paris Olympics, Russian

sports minister Oleg Matytsin said they “should be held on a regular basis in the future”.

“We propose to intensify the practice of holding competitions in an open format with the invitation of partner countries,” he said in a statement on the Kremlin website.

As part of the IOC’s sanctions on Russia and its ally Belarus, no international sporting events can be organised in either of the nations, while their flags, national anthems or any other national symbol must not be used.

Some Olympic sports such as archery, canoeing and taekwondo have allowed athletes from the two countries to compete, while Russian and Belarusian athletes

compete as neutrals in tennis.

The IOC is yet to make a decision on whether Russians and Belarusians can compete at the Paris Games, which run from 28 July to 11 August 2024.

Earlier this month, Ukrainian government minister Oleh Nemchinov said Ukrainian athletes should not be allowed to compete in qualifying events for the Olympics if Russians are taking part, while Ukraine has threatened to boycott the Games.

A host of international athletes have criticised IOC president Thomas Bach’s claim that Russians and Belarusians competing as neutrals in their sport “works”. (BBC)

Peter Robinson (fourth left) has been campaigning for safer management of head injuries in sport

36 countries to have pledged support for an ongoing ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes from international sport

Sports International

World number one Novak Djokovic will be able to play at this year’s US Open after the United States confirmed international travellers will no longer need to be vaccinated against Covid-19.

The 22-time Grand Slam winner, 35, was forced to miss last year’s tournament because of his vaccination status.

He also missed the past two Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami.

But US policy will change on 12 May, allowing Serb Djokovic to return to Flushing Meadows in August.

“Today, we are announcing that the Administration will end the Covid-19 vaccine requirements for Federal employees, Federal contractors, and international air

Haaland record: Manchester City striker breaks Premier League record for goals in a season

travellers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the Covid-19 public health emergency ends,” the White House said in a statement.

Despite applying for special permission to enter the United States, Djokovic withdrew from Indian Wells in March because he was still unable to enter the country.

He won the Australian Open in January, a year after he was deported from the country on the eve of the 2022 tournament because he had not been vaccinated. Although injury kept him out of the ongoing Madrid Open, Djokovic is due to begin his bid for an overall men’s record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open later this month. (BBC)

MANCHESTER City striker

Erling Haaland has broken the record for most goals in a Premier League season.

The Norwegian scored his 35th league goal of the campaign against West Ham to move past Alan Shearer and Andrew Cole’s previous best of 34.

Haaland had already set a record for a 38-game season, beating Mohamed Salah’s 32 goals for Liverpool in 2017-18.

“It’s a special night and a special moment. I’m really happy and proud,” Haaland told Sky Sports.

The 22-year-old has another five games to add to his tally.

“It feels amazing and I’m really happy and I’m also happy for the three points,” he told BBC Match of the Day. “In the end that’s what

matters and I’m happy.

“Yeah, it’s going well and now it’s time to focus on game by game. I’ve said this for a long time and that’s what the team is doing. The team is so good and I’m happy.”

Haaland’s 35th top-flight goal of the season came via a deft finish in the second half of a 3-0 win against the Hammers that sent City back to the top of the league.

He was given a guard of honour by his team-mates, boss Pep Guardiola and the club’s backroom staff after the final whistle at Etihad Stadium.

“I’ve not seen it before either,” Haaland added. “It was a nice feeling scoring that goal, it always is.

“It was painful when everyone

hit me on the back in the guard of honour.”

Cole’s 34 goals for Newcastle in 1993-94 were matched by Shearer as he fired Blackburn to the title the following year but there were 22 teams in the top flight in both seasons, giving them an extra four matches to play - Shearer started all 42 in his record season, while Cole missed two in his.

Haaland, in his debut season in English football, has set the new marker in just his 31st game of the year.

His 35 goals are also the most by a player in a single campaign in the English top division since Ron Davies scored 37 for Southampton in 1966-67. Dixie Dean holds the record with 60 in 39 games for Everton in 1927-28. (BBC)

Tori Bowie: American three-time Olympic medallist and ex-world champion dies aged 32

American sprinter Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medallist and former 100m world champion, has died aged 32.

Bowie won 4x100m relay gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics, plus 100m silver and 200m bronze.

The following year, she won the World Championships 100m in London, as well as relay gold.

USA Track and Field said Bowie’s “impact on the sport is immeasurable”, adding she will be “greatly missed”.

In a post on Instagram, World Athletics said it was “deeply saddened” by her death.

A statement from Team USA, the country’s Olympic and Tori Bowie won 4x100m relay gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics, plus 100m silver and 200m bronze

Paralympic fraternity, added: “She was an admired friend, team-mate, and a great representative of Team USA.”

In an individual tribute, current 100m world champion ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce said: “My heart breaks for Tori Bowie’s family. A great competitor and source of light.

“Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace.”

Two-time men’s world 200m champion and US record holder Noah Lyles said: “This breaks my heart to hear and I will keep the family in my prayers.”

Bowie converted from long

jump in 2014 and had an immediate impact on the track, becoming the fastest woman in the world that year.

She is the only American woman to have won an Olympic or world 100m title since Carmelita Jeter in 2011.

Icon Management, her agent, said: “We’re devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away.

“We’ve lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister. Tori was a champion…a beacon of light that shined so bright!

“We’re truly heartbroken and our prayers are with the family and friends.” (BBC)

Novak Djokovic is tied with Rafael Nadal on 22 Grand Slam titles in the men’s game

Djokovic: World number one able to play at US Open after change to Covid-19 policy

Erling Haaland has scored 35 goals in 31 Premier League games this season

Sports National

CHESHIRE HALL AND TEACHERS WIN LATEST U15 GIRLS FUTSAL GAMES

Cheshire Hall FC and Teachers FC registered wins in Game Three and Game Four of the TCIFA U15 Girls Futsal competition.

In the opener, Cheshire Hall recorded a 1-0 victory against the Academy Eagles, while Teachers FC defeated the SWA Sharks by a similar margin.

McKnight stars with bat and ball in Beaches cricket win

FORMER Jamaican youth player Anthony McKnight proved his all-round capabilities for Beaches in the latest round of the Senior Men’s T20 Cricket Competition last Sunday at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.

The opening batsman finished with an unbeaten 46 runs and three wickets to lift Beaches to a ninewicket win against the Jaguars.

Jaguars batted first and although they had a solid 47-run start, their batsmen struggled in the middle. After Terrance Thomas fell for 16 (2x4s) and Earl Henry for 17 (2x4s), there was a lull in the middle order. In fact, in the 13th over, the Jaguars were struggling at 77-7, but Kimroy Charlemagne (18 runs 3x4s) batting at seven and Premnauth Parmanand (25 runs,

3x4s, 1x6) batting at nine, got them over the three-digit mark to a somewhat respectable 130 before they were bowled out in 17 overs. McKnight, who did his damage in the middle order and Claude Williams, finished with 3-25 and 3-24 respectively from their allotted four overs, while Sidue Hunter supported with 2-24 from two overs.

In reply, an 87-run partnership between Mario Smith and Anthony McKnight propelled Beaches to an easy win.

Smith, who laced the ground with eight fours and went the aerial route twice, finished with 48 from 37 balls, while McKnight who saw his team to victory, finished with an unbeaten 46 from 53 balls. He scored seven fours in his innings.

TCIFA makes football donation to Edward Gartland Youth Centre

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) donated football equipment to the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre with the aim of spreading the sport among the youths that visit the centre.

Technical Director of the FA, Dane Ritchie said that the

TCIFA was proud to make the donation.

“Empowering our youth through sport is extremely important, the children are excited to play and we are excited to nurture their talents and give back to our evergrowing community.”

Action in the U15 Girls Futsal competition

Beaches recorded a nine-wicket win

Technical Director of the TCIFA Dane Ritchie makes the presentation

Historic win for TCI at Caribbean Classic Golf Tournament

The Turks and Caicos Islands golfers walked away with many accolades including the George Noon Cup for finishing with the most aggregated points for the first time in the 27-year history of the Caribbean Classic Golf Tournament.

The event, which was held over three days in Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic, also had our male team winning the Robert Grell Trophy, and the female team the Jodi Munn Barrow Trophy.

The Caribbean Classic, which is an individual and team event, is one of the highlights of regional competitive golf and is organised by the Caribbean Golf Association.

It is competed for, by teams of unlimited number of players from each participating member country, playing eighteen holes each day.

It allows the participation of amateurs from 12 countries, including the TCI, Puerto Rico, Guadalupe, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominican Republic, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Martinique, St Lucia, and USVI.

To this end, Vice President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Golf Association (TCIGA), Mark Fulford, described the win as a proud moment.

“Having led a team of 72 golfers to Casa de Campo, our homeland, the Turks and Caicos Islands was well represented. “We are proud to carry the flag of Turks and Caicos and win this tournament as we

have been competing for years and happy to become this year’s champion. Special thanks to the golfers who gave of their time, talent and money to be a part of the team this year. We hope we can take a larger team next year. ”

TCI Director of Sports Jarrett Forbes, who competed in the event, was overjoyed that TCI delivered a spectacular performance.

Forbes said, “Golf is a great sport, with endless opportunities, and I recommend that young Turks Islanders take up the sport. I would like to commend the players who represented the TCI in their astonishing achievements!”

Head Golf Professional of the Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club, Mr Sean Wilson stated: “it was a great win for team Turks

and Caicos as they represented the country proudly and brought back the trophies in all three divisions on behalf of the TCIGA! It is a very proud moment in our history of golf in the country.”

Individual winners for the TCI included Audrey Hardie in 2nd place LF 7 division; Carol Brown in 1st place LF 6 division; Lucy Bullard in 2nd place LF 5 division;

Kerry Wessinger in 1st place LF 4 division; Christina Pretorius in 2nd place LF 3 division and Andrea Todd in 2nd place LF 1 division.

Men winners include Justin Simons 3rd place in MP division; Jonathan Kattan 1st place in M6 Flight; Jarrett Forbes 3rd place in M5 flight; Terry Kuula in 3rd place M4 flight and Carl DeFazio in 2nd place M3 flight.

The golfers were well received upon their return to the TCI

TCI golfers celebrating the win

The golfers represented the TCI well

TCI golfers at Casa de Campo