TC Weekly News October 29 - November 4, 2022

Minimum wage set to increase

BY OLIVIA ROSE

A proposal to increase the minimum wage in the Turks and Caicos Islands will be presented to the House of Assembly for debate soon.

Low minimum wage paired with the high cost of living, which refers to the amount of money needed to cover basic expenses such as housing, food, taxes, and healthcare, have impacted the quality of life for many people in the Turks and Caicos Islands over the years.

Against this backdrop, the government has acknowledged that there are sections of society burdened by the rising prices of essential commodities and has vowed to make changes to alleviate these challenges for the common man.

According to the Minister of Education and Labour Hon Rachel Taylor, efforts are underway to adjust the minimum wage to help residents live a better quality life.

During her ministerial address in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, October 19 she said: “Mr Speaker very soon, you will see me bring into this house a minimum wage proposal, and I'm quite sure that those on the other side will smile as I present, right? That's right.”

This comes as a committee appointed earlier this year, to consider the economic climate and other conditions and advise

the Government on a fair and appropriate minimum wage scale for workers in the TCI, recently wrapped up its review and plans to present it to the cabinet in short order.

Minister Taylor explained that the report examines the impacts of the current minimum wage on the lives and the livelihood of the working men and women in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“It should be noted that the minimum wage was increased at the juncture to US$6.25 per hour.

She added: “The initial proposal in 2014 was to implement a twophase approach.

“In the first instance, the wage was to be increased by 25% or to $6.25. Mr Speaker, I must say that I'm very pleased with the working group initiative that reviewed the minimum wage index was several countries of similar size and demographics as the Turks and Caicos throughout the Caribbean, and also countries in North America.

“The review revealed that many countries in the region have recently updated their minimum wage index, or are currently in the process of doing so.

“In reviewing the national minimum wage, an assessment of the distribution of wages in the economy was indeed considered.”

She further explained that the assessment was conducted using random samples of approximately 900 workers in the territory.

“Mr Speaker while this working group mandate is focused on reviewing and making recommendations concerning our revising national minimum wage 2022, it is worth noting that parallel to this undertaking, the government has also mandated the working group to make recommendations to other support programmes, which can be implemented as a package which will serve to adjust and reduce the cost of living for all and or to support further the most vulnerable, particularly those individuals…living in poverty or close to the poverty line.”

In keeping with this, the committee commenced a nationwide impact survey which will ascertain the possible impact to the various industries large or small when the increase in the minimum wage is implemented.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour (Chair), the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, a

representative from the Statistics Department, the Premier’s Office, Labour Department, and AG Chambers, and two representatives from the private sector are all members of the Minimum Wage Committee.

According to the International

Labour Organisation (ILO), which the TCI is a member of, the minimum wage should be complementary with standards where a person is allowed to work 48 hours at a rate to give them the ability across the board to have a decent standard of living.

TCI records 28th murder following fatal shootout

BY DELANA ISLES

Paul Missick is the latest casualty in the rising murder count – a historical high of 28 in TCI as of October 26 for 2022, police have confirmed.

Missick, lying motionless on a concrete pathway with what appeared to be a gunshot wound to his face, in the vicinity of his eyes.

first time ranked among some of the most violent countries, with a steeply rising number of murders per capita.

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Twenty-eight murders later, police are still grappling with the crime situation in the territory, and with many boots on the ground, some calm has descended, even as the number of murders continues to rise.

As residents were making their way home from work on Wednesday evening at about 6pm, multiple gunshots rang out in the vicinity of the James Stubbs building along Leeward Highway in Providenciales.

Shortly after, videos and images began circulating on social media platforms of the two victims, one clad in green trousers and a t-shirt, laying on the side of the road, still breathing as bystanders urged him not to close his eyes.

Another video showed a second man, later confirmed to be Paul

Residents in the area alerted police to the shooting, and upon arrival emergency personnel rushed the green-clad victim to the hospital where he is being treated for his injuries.

Police later stated that he sustained a gunshot wound to the left side of his body. The victim was later confirmed to be Louis Francis.

An analysis of the latest international crime statistics revealed that the TCI is set to become one of the global violent crime hotspots for 2022, and it may already be there.

As of October 27, TCI’s murder rate is recorded at 70.1 per 100,000 people. This figure is well above that of Jamaica which, as of August 2022, ranked as the second most dangerous country worldwide, with the homicide rate of 43.85 per 100,000 people living in the country.

After a bloody September, Turks and Caicos Islands for the

In their continued efforts to stymie the tide of violence that has infested the territory, police are urging the public to cooperate with them and help fight crime.

On Wednesday, Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting urged residents to keep supporting their policing efforts which have stepped up in recent weeks.

The commissioner urged: “Please keep supporting our officers who are working day and night to protect you.

“Please keep telling us what you know, I assure you the information is making a real difference. And finally, please know that we remain determined, resolute and committed to keeping the TCI safe and secure.”

Members of the public can notify the closest police station or contact Crime Stoppers at 1- 8008477 and give any information of these incidents anonymously.

Minister of Education and Labour Hon Rachel Taylor

Minimum jail time for unlicensed firearms increases to 12 and 18 years

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Any person found in possession of an unlicensed firearm will now face a minimum mandatory prison sentence of 12 years, and those in possession of high-powered weapon or ammunition will serve no less than 18 years.

This comes as the Government fiercely pushes back against an upsurge in brutal firearm-related crimes which have gripped the territory in recent months.

To this end, significant progress has been made on the legislative front with the introduction of stricter penalties and amendments to bolster law enforcement in the fight against crime.

Last week, the House of Assembly passed several criminal justice Bills to enhance national security and to deter criminals by increasing sentences for persons found in possession of firearms and ammunition- and aid the police force in its duties.

The Firearms Amendment Bill 2022 which sought to introduce higher penalties for the possession of unlicensed firearms, or possession of a prohibited weapon or ammunition, was debated in the House of Assembly on Thursday, October 20.

Attorney General Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles who presented the Bill to the House of Assembly explained that previously possession of firearms carried a minimum

mandatory penalty of seven years imprisonment, while the possession of ‘high-powered’ firearms and ammunition carried a minimum sentence of 10 years.

She said: “The current penalty for possession of an unlicensed firearm is a mandatory term of imprisonment of not less than seven years, with a maximum of 16 years and a fine without limits.

“Clause three of the bill would seek to replace section three of the ordinance to increase the mandatory minimum sentence or possession of unlicensed firearm to 12 years.

“The current penalty for possession of a firearm or imitation firearm with the intent to commit a serious offense is seven years.

“Currently, clause four of the bill would seek to amend section 22 of the ordinance to increase the mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for possession of the firearm or imitation firearm with intent to commit the offense.”

Prior to the amendment of the bill, the penalty for manufacturing, selling, transferring, purchasing, acquiring or having possession of a high-powered weapon or ammunition without lawful authority is life imprisonment, a fine without limits and a mandatory minimum term of no less than 10 years.

She said: “Mr Speaker, clause five of the bill seeks to replace section 27 of the ordinance to provide that a person who manufactures,

sells, transfers, purchases, acquires or has in his possession a high powered weapon or ammunition without lawful authority would do life with an unlimited fine, and notwithstanding the provisions of the parole of prisoners ordinance concerning time within which an offender is eligible for parole upon sentence, that person would see not less than 18 years in prison before being eligible for parole.”

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood who supported the Firearms Amendment described it as an important piece of legislation.

During his contribution to the Bill, he said: “All these bills that we have before us are very important that of course we fully support legislative changes that are needed to assist our crime fight here and support the criminal justice system.

“We have seen what has been happening over the last few months in the country, Mr Speaker and it is and was very alarming.”

Astwood lauded the work of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and the assistance provided by the Royal Bahamas Police Force in helping to restore a sense of calm on Providenciales where most of the recent murders have taken place.

He said: “I was wondering if we can know what was done differently within that first two weeks of those officers being here, what was the difference?

“Because none of these bills are

enacted as yet, but somehow we got some results, the streets are quiet.

“I would like to know what is different, what has been done differently so we can emulate that—so going forward that that can be the norm.”

Astwood stressed that the Police Force which has been reinforced with the recent deployment of 24 officers from the Bahamas Police Force has been able to accomplish much in the past weeks without stringent legislation.

“We have seen results without these amendments being in place, yes, these amendments are needed but I just want the public to be cognizant of this.

“I am in support of these amendments, but I just want the record to show that they have done stuff without our help.”

STANDING STRONG

The Governor’s Appointed Member, Hon Willin Belliard said the bill is not only necessary to help root out the crime but to demonstrate the territory's serious position against this scourge that is threatening to thwart the territory’s reputation of peace and tranquillity.

He said: “I support this bill wholeheartedly because we need to show those who are determined to continue their criminality that we are going to stand strong against it.

“We are going to defeat this element that is trying to destroy

our peace and tranquillity, and that is trying to destroy our economic life and livelihood, and that is something Mr Speaker that none of us can tolerate.”

He underscored that the bill doesn't target any particular person but applies to everyone.

“We have to be determined and serious about our obligations to the people of this country.

“We have to make sure that our people are protected. And 12 years for possession of firearm is the reasonable response.

“You had 30 days not to be caught and face this long-term sentence, you fail to surrender your firearm.”

He stressed that “this is a strong signal that this government and we in this house are committed to defeating crime and whatever comes with those involved in criminal activity.

“We hope that our youth don't fall subject to this ordinance into these powers, we don't want our youth to be in prison, we want our youth to be productive members of our society.

“But if you choose the wrong path, consequences must follow”, he added.

Additional legislation passed which will aid the fight against crime include the Police Force (Amendment) Bill; Interception of Communications Bill; Anti- Gang Bill and the Firearms Related Offences (Detention and Bail) (Amendment) Bill.

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood

Attorney General Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles

Governor’s Appointed Member, Hon Willin Belliard

FAILED GUN AMNESTY

No firearms were surrendered during the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Forces' month-long Firearm and Ammunition Amnesty. The gun amnesty was launched on September 15, 2022, to keep dangerous weapons off the streets and protect residents and guests in light of an upsurge in brutal firearm murders in recent weeks.

The Amnesty-themed "Surrender a Gun, Save a Life" concluded on Saturday, October 15. In a statement on Wednesday, October 19, Communications Officer of the RTCIPF, Denyse Renne said: "Sadly, no one took advantage of this opportunity to surrender their homes and properties of these lethal weapons: Commissioner Botting assures the public that the men and women of the RTCIPF remain steadfast, determined and relentless in pursuing criminal elements bent on wreaking havoc on the Beautiful by Nature TCI, she added.

During the amnesty period, anyone illegally in possession, custody, or control of any firearm, explosive or ammunition was urged to voluntarily surrender or disclose the location of the item/s to the officer in charge of a police station, a designated pastor, or a police post. Now that the amnesty has expired, those who refused to surrender their firearms and ammunition, once convicted, can face stiff penalties. What are your thoughts?

Not all criminals are stupid

So what - the amnesty did not work - as I predicted. Easier to throw the gun in the ocean than surrender it and run the risk of ballistics linking it back to you for problems down the line: criminals are criminals - but not all stupid.

The law gave them a chance

The door was opened for persons to turn in any illegal guns and ammunition. So now that the timeframe has concluded, anyone found with such items in their home, on their body or vehicle, must face the charges that they carry. As a country, if we want better, we must allow the law to work accordingly, without any prejudice or interference.

Bad idea, not surprised

There were very few persons who were surprised that there was “no” response to

the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Forces' (the Force) month-long Firearm and Ammunition Amnesty (the Amnesty).

There is little trust in the police force and very little confidence in the current high command of the force. Members of the public retain the fear and concern that “coming forward” may get them into trouble and very few could take the Commissioner’s “word for it”.

The guns at issue are illegal, stolen and connected to most, if not all, of the ongoing crime wave in Providenciales. It begs the question, why would any known gunslinger, perpetrator of murder or robbery come and turn himself in?

The “street” is not so naïve or gullible and they are well aware that promise of amnesty is not backed by anything. It is already an offence to hold an unlicensed gun and it is the unlicensed and criminal gun holders involved with illegal guns that were the target of the so-called amnesty.

Were any laws passed or regulations published that would provide a “safe harbour” for those seeking to come in, give up a life of crime and “turn states evidence or witness”? So why would they come in? The “street”, it seems are far ahead of the police, when it comes to thinking or ‘prescience’ and this is a sad state of affairs.

It is a long-held and deeply-rooted

belief in the TCI that the UK and Canadian Commissioners of Police “do not understand conditions on the ground”. It need not come to that as it is the case in other countries that these are similar realities.

Meaning, it seems that no matter what country the Commissioner lives in that his abilities are not equal to crime fighting issues on the Ground. The mode, strategy and implementation of Amnesty was a bad idea simply put.

Doomed from the outset

The so-called amnesty was not a realistic one. What were the terms? The exercise underscores the absence of a well-thoughtout plan and strategy for the implementation of Amnesty. Were any laws passed to provide for immunities, protections and or safeguards for those turning guns in?

What were they targeting?

Legal guns as well?

If so, the idea was set to doom from the outset. If they were after the illegal guns, then the amnesty notice ought to have been much clearer. There was a credible cloud of doubt about whether it was “safe to come forward”.

Weak systems

The system of maintaining and storing guns in the police department is weak. There are too many stories and allegations of guns being stolen from police storage. Is it possible that some of these guns are “on the road” and that the police were effectively seeking a way to have guns stolen or released “from storage returned to them”? It is also felt that anyone who came forward would have been exposed by way of having some officers “tell on them” to the real criminals on the street. This allegation is troubling and needs to be looked into.

Criminals will not change without reason

People with illegal guns and contraband care little about “stiff fines and penalties. They could care less about long sentences. They are already out there, committing offences and the penalties of the law are of no issue to them. The message and threat of fines and penalties are really of issue and concern to law-abiding citizenry.

Hopefully, holders of licensed guns were not the target and objective of the amnesty.

Yet it is the law-abiding citizen that would respond to such an amnesty.

The strategy of working a successful amnesty was just not there. The RTCIPF simply does not understand “conditions and realities on the ground”. The gangs we have in TCI have infiltrated the community, spreading violence and threats.

It is real gun activity, real guns and a nonrepentant criminal class that will "stop at nothing" to get what they want, and it seems that the police do not understand this.

Community engagement needed

The Government, Premier, and the Commissioner of Police need to engage the Leader of the Opposition and the public on developing a realistic plan to deal with crime and guns. It was helpful that the Leader of the Opposition gave a few suggestions for fighting crime that were workable. Government and Law enforcement in the TCI need to stop being so “tone deaf”.

They must know that there are leaks where guns, drugs are coming from Haiti, the US and ‘nether’ parts of the Caribbean region. They need to find a way to “plug the hole” in the borders and the closing of the gates to the TCI.

There is a need for a common policy between the Government and the Opposition as the threat of violence, travel alerts are immediate to TCI’s lifeline of tourism. It cannot be played with. A community summit is needed to get the input of all players and stakeholders in the community. A community-wide effort would take real findings, real intelligence on where the guns are and who the real culprits are.

Loyalty over prison

The threat of conviction and prison is not worse than the threat of violence for breaking gang loyalty. The former offers some chance of escape.

The latter only torture and death. The Governor may need to deploy the Regiment for engagement if things get worse. TCI will not become a gang warfare blighted country.

A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day

TCI did everything possible to avoid being blacklisted by EU – Finance Minister

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade Hon Erwin Saunders said it is “not easy” for small island nations like the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) to meet the European Union’s requirements to avoid being blacklisted.

His comments were made after the TCI, the Bahamas, Anguilla and Trinidad & Tobago were recently added to the European Union’s tax haven blacklist for not complying with international tax benchmarks.

The Finance Minister told the House of Assembly last Wednesday that the government and other stakeholders devoted lots of time, energy and resources to avoid the dreaded blacklist.

“I certainly feel that we should not have been identified as noncooperating because we are cooperating.

“Mr Speaker for small island nations like ours, there's a whole

research paper about jurisdiction in the South Pacific being blacklisted. And all of the research that I've done, meeting the requirements of the EU is not easy, and not easy for a lot of us small island nations.

“So my view was that we were cooperating, even though we might have tripped over a bit and stumbled trying to get to the finish line.

“But as far as they were concerned, either you were there or you're not.”

Saunders who called out the disparities in the criteria for big European countries and small island nations said: “I must point out that EU member countries are not screened for possible inclusion on the blacklist…so they get a free pass.”

“The list which is updated every six months requires the 27 member countries, which are not screened, to take defensive measures against the jurisdictions that are considered the blacklisted countries.”

High school boys accused of rape on school grounds

Rape allegations are being made against three teenage boys, who are alleged to have sexually assaulted a teen girl on school grounds.

All the teens are said to be of school age, and reports – which police have since confirmed –are that the incident occurred at the Helena Jones High School in Grand Turk.

The incident reportedly occurred last Wednesday, when the female student went to use the bathroom and was accosted by the teenage boys; they then proceeded to sexually assault her in the facility.

A report was made to the welfare department and investigations were launched.

Reports are that the accused were all apprehended this week. Police have confirmed that active investigations are underway into the alleged incident.

News of the crime came to light Thursday morning when

screenshots of a conversation were shared widely across social media.

Police then quickly issued a statement, appealing to the public and the media to exercise responsibility in disseminating information on the incident given the nature of the alleged crime and that it involves minors.

The statement read: “The RTCIPF will not be commenting further on the status of this investigations given the seriousness and sensitivity of the report made.”

Police are further calling on members of the public to inform them if they suspect a child is being abused or sexually molested.

Reports can be made at the nearest police station, or by contacting the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit at 232- 6696 or by calling 911.

The European Council recently published its biannual list of noncooperative jurisdictions blacklist (Annex I) and (Annex II –a socalled “grey list”) for jurisdictions that have met some but not all of the benchmarks.

In a statement on Tuesday, October 4, the European Council said it regrets that these jurisdictions are non-cooperative on “tax matters” and invites them to engage with the EU’s Code of Conduct Group in order to resolve the identified issues.

Turks and Caicos Islands was listed for the first time, while the Bahamas was already once listed in 2018, and Anguilla once in 2020.

According to the EU, the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes is a tool to tackle tax fraud or evasion: illegal nonpayment or underpayment of tax, tax avoidance: use of legal means to minimise tax liability and money laundering: concealment of origins of illegally obtained money.

The Council explained that the reason for the inclusion of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla and The Bahamas on the list is that there are “concerns that these three jurisdictions, which all have a zero or nominal only rate of corporate income tax, are attracting profits without real economic activity (criterion 2.2 of the EU list).”

In particular, these jurisdictions “failed to adequately address a number of recommendations of the OECD Forum on Harmful Tax Practices (FHTP) in connection to the enforcement of economic substance requirements, something to which they committed earlier this year”, the Council stated.

WORKING TOWARDS COMPLIANCE

In an effort to be removed from Annex 1 (blacklist), the government is currently implementing a comprehensive action plan, according to the Finance Minister.

He said: “ This includes but is not limited to 1) a dedicated consultancy firm which will assist

in satisfying the four assessed areas; 2) dedication of more resources; 3) renewed Portal; 4) comprehensive registration drive; 5) rigorous compliance activities and; 6) partnering with other statutory bodies for sharing of valuable information.”

Saunders explained that in 2018, the Turks and Caicos Islands enacted the Companies and Limited Partnerships (Economic Substance) Ordinance and supporting regulations in an effort to comply with Action 5 of the OECDs base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) initiative, in order to ensure compliance, the TCI immediately began to put in place the necessary measures.

In 2021, the territory underwent an assessment exercise as part of the first annual monitoring, the results of which were considered by the Ecofin Council and then presented to the Forum on Harmful Tax Practices (FHTP) at their November 2021 meeting.

He said: “At that meeting, the FHTP identified twelve (12) jurisdictions as having no or only nominal tax regimes, and/or not having yet met the standard (s) in practice.

“As it was the first year of monitoring, it was noted that implementation of infrastructure, IT, compliance, and enforcement procedures pursuant to the standard remain ongoing in many of the monitored jurisdictions.

“This was subsequently approved and published in the November 2021 report on the monitoring of the substantial activities requirements in no or only nominal tax jurisdictions”.

“Mr Speaker, at that time, TCI was placed on Annex II or rather the "grey list".

The grey list is used for jurisdictions that do not yet comply with all international tax standards but have committed to implementing tax good governance principles; these jurisdictions are subject to monitoring while they undertake to execute their

commitments.”

He added: “The FHTP at this meeting also concluded that the TCI did not undertake any compliance actions, although the TCI was still in the process of further developing its systematic and manual compliance framework, as well as its compliance framework, including hiring additional staff.”

At the time, the territory was unable to provide statistical data, as no process to collect the data was in place when the questionnaire was submitted, additionally, no exchanges of information had been undertaken, the Minister pointed out.

He said: “Therefore, the FHTP urged the TCI to (i) ensure that all required substance returns are filed as soon as possible, (ii) further develop its compliance monitoring mechanism and undertake compliance actions, (iii) provide the FHTP with statistical data, and (iv) undertake the required exchanges of information under the standard.

The TCI was advised that it would therefore be assessed on the following four areas in the assessment: Substance returns/ IT systems; Compliance actions; Statistical data; and Exchanges of information.

In keeping with this, the Ministry of Finance, Investment & Trade immediately began allocating funding and the necessary resources to ensure compliance with the four assessed areas.

He said: “During this period the portal was launched, companies were registered and commenced reporting, the requisite report was completed and submitted to the Code of Conduct Group within the requisite timeframe and a consultant team was identified and formally engaged to further assist with these efforts.

“The Ministry of Finance during this time, also held several meetings with the OECD and European Union representatives to ensure compliance. Whilst, the TCI was able to achieve a great deal within a relatively short timeframe, the Ecofin Council and by extension, the FHTP, were of the view that there was more to be done.”

The EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes was established in December of 2017. It is part of the EU’s external strategy on taxation and aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to promote tax good governance worldwide.

Since 2020, the Council updates the list twice a year, the next revision of the list is scheduled for February 2023.

Minister of Finance, Investment & Trade Hon Erwin Saunders

Calm prevails as police operations grow

BY DELANA ISLES

Following a brutal September, renewed calls for his resignation and a spotlight shone on his department, Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting reports on 10 days of relative calm in the Islands.

Within the last week, police have undertaken several exercises along with seconded officers of the Bahamian Police Force.

According to an operational summary from Commissioner Botting, in the last 10 days: “205 vehicles have been checked, numerous fixed penalty tickets issued, illegal tints removed from 23 vehicles, 20 drug searches, eight persons detained under immigration legislation, four warrants executed in relations to searches for firearms, two firearms and ammunition seized, large quantity of drugs seized including cannabis, cocaine and amphetamines; seven persons arrested for drugs and firearms offences and laptops and cell phones seized for examination.”

Also, 21 persons suspected to be working illegally in the territory were arrested.

“The last ten days has seen very little criminal activity and we are working hard to keep it that way,” the Commissioner said.

Botting stated that in terms of operations – which was a mixture of visible and covert intelligenceled tactics targeting criminals - the last week was a major success.

He thanked the Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Clayton Fernander and the Bahamian Government for their continued support to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Our Bahamian colleagues are working side by side with local officers, tackling criminality and criminals. Our combined team remain relentless in pursuing those who carry firearms, those who deal in drugs, those who are seeking to commit robberies and burglaries and those that are causing fear and harm.”

Over the past 10 days police have been out in full force, both on land and sea, and this continued into the week, with a strong police presence on the roadways on Thursday morning, several hours after another brutal shooting left one dead and another nursing a gunshot wound.

The Commissioner warned: “If you are involved in crime, don’t think our operations will be stopping anytime soon. If you have a family member involved in crime, expect officers to be at your door, expect them to be

in your house. Criminals cannot hide amongst family, and families cannot hide criminals.”

Officers on the ground are being heavily supported by aerial surveillance provided by the US Law Enforcement and UK Royal Navy Wildcat helicopter.

Botting said these support mechanisms are protecting the territory’s border, which includes the routes frequented by criminals to illegally enter and leave.

“We have strong collaborative relationships with our US colleagues, and I anticipate that their support will continue into the future hovering in the TCI skies.”

In terms of investigations, he said they expect many investigators to be arriving from the UK soon.

These officers will support local investigation teams, ensuring the results of their hard work are supported by robust and thorough investigations, thereby ensuring criminals face the full force of the law, he stated.

The commissioner also acknowledged the help afforded his officers by the public, noting that due to this they are now able to build a strong, intelligence network concerning criminal activities.

“I especially want to mention the generous tokens of thanks from local businesses. Never

underestimate how deeply the support from our community is felt by the Force.

“We truly appreciate building collaborative efforts within our communities, which is a critical factor in ensuring the TCI is a safe and secure place to live, work,

invest and visit.”

He is urging the public to keep supporting his officers who are working day and night to protect the people of the TCI.

“Please keep telling us what you know, I assure you the information is making a real difference.”

UK Minister pays courtesy visit to the RTCIPF

United Kingdom Minister, the Hon Jesse Norman, on Thursday, October 27, 2022, paid a courtesy visit to Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting at Police Headquarters.

Accompanying Hon Norman was His Excellency Governor Nigel Dakin and officials from the UK.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of cooperation between the UK and the Royal

Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force in matters of security and policing.

According to a statement from the police, the Hon Minister witnessed a briefing of intelligence-

led reports compiled by officers of the RTCIPF, at the end of which he was taken on a tour of Dock Yard.

Several senior officers were present at the visit including; Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney

Adams, Assistant Commissioner of Police Darron Williams, ag Assistant Commissioner of Police Willet Harvey and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Bahamas) Kendall Strachan.

Jesse Norman (middle) is flanked by Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting (right) and Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams (left).

Intelligence briefing- Hon Jesse Norman listens attentively. Looking on are Governor Nigel Dakin, DCP Rodney Ad, ACP (Bahamas) Kendall Strachan and Superintendent Dwight Gardiner

Commissioner of Police, Trevor Botting

TCI’s first female Deputy Governor celebrates 10 years

BY DELANA ISLES

The appointment of Her Excellency Anya Williams to the post of Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands marks a momentous period in TCI history.

It set off a trend of women appointees to positions of power in the territory - both political and judicial - one that persists today.

Swift on the heels of her appointment to Deputy Governor, the territory welcomed, a female Attorney General, a female Deputy Premier, a female Chief Justice, a female Chief Magistrate, and a female Director of Public Prosecutions.

One election later, the TCI recorded a new premier in the person of Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson.

All of these appointments being the first time a woman occupied these posts, putting the territory firmly on the world stage as “Turks and Caicos: Where women hold the top jobs” (BBC article 29 January 2017).

‘A DAY OF REFLECTION’

Marking the momentous day with a return to the public eye by way of social media engagements, Williams reflected on her appointment and the healing she undertook over the last year following a tragedy in her family.

She writes: “On October 15th, 2012, I was appointed to serve as the second Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Thirty-two-years old at the time, one of the youngest in the region, I was filled with hope and vision that day and can say that 10 years later I still feel the same today.

“Looking back over the years there has been highs and also lows. The highs have been centred around seeing others grow and develop into true leaders during my tenure, something I am always

most proud of.”

Regarding the lows, she said: “October has always been a month of celebration for me as I celebrated my birthday and the anniversary of my appointment, however October 2021 became a low for me when I lost my baby brother, one of the persons closest in this world to me, around this same time last year.”

Williams said she took the year away from social media to focus on her recovery while at the same time working towards accomplishing her professional goals.

“However, I am so thankful for the persons both professionally and personally that have supported me on my journey over the last 10 years, in particular the last year.

“As God is Greater Than My Highs and My Lows (Romans 38:39), I remain humbled, thankful and forever grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve.”

UK AND LOCAL SUPPORT

A few weeks ago, Governor Nigel Dakin staunchly refuted rumours of her replacement.

In a statement to Magnetic Media, Governor reiterated his confidence in Williams, and that of the UK Government as well as the local Cabinet.

He told MM: “Anya Williams, is one of the most dedicated and effective leaders I’ve had the good fortune to work with.

“Beyond that myself, the Premier and Deputy Premier have for example recently lauded her over her leadership during the height of Hurricane FIONA. While I am Governor, Anya Williams will remain Deputy Governor and my strong recommendation to my successor – whenever my successor is appointed – is he or she could not have a better person to be able to rely on.”

Since her historic appointment to the post, Williams has been a highly visible public servant, one who also played quite an active

role in the territory’s recovery efforts from the devastating 2017 hurricanes.

Prior to her appointment to the post of Deputy Governor, she held both the post of Budget Director and Permanent Secretary Finance in the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.

The position of Deputy Governor had become vacant in September

2009 following the suspension of the TCI’s Constitution.

The Deputy Governor is a nonvoting member of Cabinet and acts as Governor when the latter is absent from the territory. She heads the public service, is the line manager of the Permanent Secretaries and chairs a Permanent Secretaries’ committee that reviews legislation and decisions

for Cabinet.

Her office also has direct responsibility for The Human Resources Management Division’s training unit and democratic services such as House of Assembly and Directorate Services.

She also oversees the contracts and corporate performance management and the Government’s Press Office.

Operation Sea Patrol nabs 22 illegal workers

The local construction industry has for years been overrun with illegal workers, and despite repeated police road exercises, the practice persisted.

Police have now employed a new strategy to target these persons, as well as overstayers in the territory.

Last Friday, October 21, the Immigration Enforcement Unit conducted an intelligence-led operation dubbed ‘Operation Sea Patrol’ with the assistance of officers of the Royal TCI Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

In a statement this week, police said the operation was

aimed at disrupting the growing occurrence of undocumented workers as well as documented workers working contrary to their work permits within the construction industry specifically in the family islands and cays.

Intelligence gathered assisted the Immigration Department with targeting transportation vessels that were being used to ferry both legal and illegal workers to and from work sites daily.

Operation Sea Patrol resulted in the apprehension of 22 persons, 21 of whom are in the islands illegally.

Those apprehended have since been processed by Immigration

officials and are now awaiting deportation.

Police are once again reminding members of the public that employing an illegal worker is a criminal offence, punishable by a fine of up to $20,000 or to a term of imprisonment of four years, or both.

Persons are also encouraged to continue to report what they know about illegal migration activity and can do so using Crime stoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477.

Alternatively, they can contact the Immigration Intelligence Unit directly on 649-338-4415 or by email at tciintel@gov.tc.

Deputy Governor, H.E. Anya Williams

Knowledge is a form of wealth

No matter how young or old you are, get as much knowledge as possible. Having knowledge can be a form of wealth if you apply the knowledge correctly, you can improve your confidence level, you can reduce your reliance on others, and also reduce your chances of being taken advantage of. However, I encourage you, when you obtain the knowledge, do something with it. Don’t just sit on it and let it go to waste.

According to Cambridge Dictionary, “knowledge is understanding of or information about a subject that you get experience or study, either known by one person or people generally.”

Let me say this, you do not have to go to college to get knowledge. There are so many resources such as short courses, journals, articles, and books that you can use to get knowledge. I know many of us do

– be wealthy

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

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

not like to read but when you start reading and get knowledge, you will reap major benefits. Now if you don’t like to read, there are resources on videos. Whatever resources you use, make sure that these resources are credible and reliable. One of the most reliable books to obtain

knowledge is the Bible.

You can also get knowledge from experience. Some people never had the opportunity to go to college, but they are full of experience and may have more knowledge than some of those that went to college. Experience is a good way of getting

knowledge and that is why it is important to learn as much as you can whether it is on the job or at home. Don’t take your experience for granted.

When you lack knowledge, you are limiting your ability to expand and sometimes you feel handicapped. Therefore, having knowledge will increase your self-esteem, confidence, and gain respect.

Too many of us are in the same state because we lack the knowledge to progress. Having knowledge will allow you to move to a better state or condition and become successful.

A lot of us rely on others because we lack the needed knowledge. However, if you can get the

knowledge, you can do so much for yourself and may even save time, money, and your life.

Having knowledge can also help you to reduce mistakes. Of course, no one is perfect and we all make mistakes, but you can make fewer mistakes if you have the knowledge about that area.

The good thing about having knowledge is that no one can take it from you. Some people may try to convince you that the knowledge you have is inaccurate—and that is why your knowledge should be factual and backed by evidence.

Having knowledge can unlock so much potential and ultimately lead you to success. One of the reasons why we fail at times is because we lack knowledge. If you don’t know, you don’t know, so that is why it is important to get as much knowledge as possible and then apply it wisely.

Can humans disintegrate the Earth beyond repair?

The transient attributes of humans stand in stark contrast with the permanence of planet Earth and the apparent insatiable human tendency to consume is altering the planet and life in it. For thousands of years, generations have come and gone, yet the Earth remains resilient in its capacity to host life – until now!

Geologists worldwide dubbed post-World War II, as the “Great Acceleration,” the Anthropocene

BY D MARKIE SPRING

naturally be replenished.

Epoch, where the rate of human activity dramatically increases inside Earth’s geology and ecosystems, propelling astounding improvements in transportation, ingenuity, and communication systems, and triggering revolutionary economic and political transformation. Since then, the world’s population has nearly tripled, and the populace is enjoying an unparalleled standard of living.

Scientists say, almost 50 per cent of land surface has been transfigured by direct channelized human activities, posing explicit threats to biodiversity, weather patterns, nutrient cycling and sustainable ecosystems.

The corollary is, an estimated 85 per cent of global fish stocks are over-exploited, depleted or recovering from overharvesting. These excessive activities threaten a third of the world’s species to the point of extinction, as humans are consuming Earth’s resources at a rate faster than these resources can

In response, established organisations, such as the G8, have designed road maps to correct this planetary emergency – adapting mechanisms, such as sustainable development, which encourages economic and social growth inside the ecological confines of the Earth. So far, the results are daunting, and the global financial crises are prime examples of such ecological debts.

The reality is, there is an adverse cost to mismanaging the Earth’s resources in the human quest to become economic and politically affluent – thrusting the Earth beyond its natural cycles.

Additionally, experts opined that asteroids impact, super-volcanic eruptions, pollution, and severe climatic conditions promise to devastate the planet and now, there is undisputable evidence that Earth’s lower atmosphere, land surface, and oceans are recording extreme daily temperatures.

Beyond this, a new global threat of detonating tactical and strategic nuclear weapons – capable of annihilating human life and ecosystems – is brewing in the shadow of geopolitical prominence. This begs the question; ‘can man ruin the Earth?’

While Scientists have answered this question, theological historians are also weighing in. They are adamant, Scriptures confirm that man cannot ruin the Earth and – rightly so –Ecclesiastes 1:4 supports this truth. Throughout the history of the planet, men have succeeded each other in incessant generations; yet, the Earth endures; it undergoes no change that leads to melioration, or improvement.

This is in reference to Psalm 119 in verse 90. The Earth was made firm, which illustrates the faithfulness, stability and permanence of God’s promises. It is the same throughout all generations with all its treasures of land and oceans and although it is often shaken by powerful earthquakes and polluted by chemicals it will not be removed or ceased to exist until the dissolution of all things when it defuncts before the presence of God and replaced – cited in Revelation 20:11.

Religious scholars assert, while human activities exacerbate situations on Earth, they cannot annihilate it! For it is God who firmly established the Earth and He is in control always even in difficult situations and the ultimate Ruler over all His creation.

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.

Tourism craftsmen and masterminds in the Caribbean

Craftsmanship is a skill in a particular craft. Let’s make tourism and hospitality that particular craft.

Think of “The Art of Crafting a Tourism Product”. Craftmanship requires a person who is a skilled practitioner with the ingenuity of a master and a leader-for-change; a Mastermind.

Craftsmanship helps to build better tourism and hospitality products. The Craftsman has convictions and there is a connection between mind, heart, and pursuit. Mastery is the goal of the true Craftsman when trying to create something that's more beautiful. The master-mindedness is about brilliant thinking and original ideas and not about competing with others.

Examples will be asked for. Three people that come to mind as models of tourism Craftmanship and mastery in the Caribbean: Karolin Troubetzkoy of St.Lucia (Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain Resorts), Gregor Nassief of the Commonwealth of Dominica (Secret Bay Resort), and the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart

OCTOPEN

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

of Jamaica (Sandals Resorts).

All three have shown the passion and devotion of a Craftsman or master to accomplish outstanding performance in tourism creation in the Caribbean, although hospitality may have been the emphasis.

Too often, people’s minds are saturated with little things and therefore there is no space to do big things. It may lead to becoming content with doing small things. Without convictions, people just use what is easily available or take shortcuts. Often quantity goes before quality. They copy or get into a franchise. Uniqueness and authenticity that could make a tourism product or destination

Bud has written numerous articles and columns for international and regional magazines. As a specialist in strategic communication, he aims to ensure that the essential information is noticed by the senses, sticks in the mind, and affects thinking, behaviour, or activities of an audience.

stand out, get lost. Subsequently, it may get a lower ranking in industry reviews. It also often leads to going cheap, to try to make numbers keep up.

Craftsmanship is about doing what’s best regardless of how it is done. It’s about making sure that Craft is aesthetically beautiful, performs what it was designed for and every detail that went into making it was carefully attended. A true Craftsman would work until the job is done excellently.

The human touch is vital to unrivalled Craftsmanship and performance. The Craftsman is personally involved with the creation and treats it as an extension

of his life. Some statements made by the above-mentioned tourism Masterminds may give an impression of their mindset:

“We needed something like Jade Mountain, so other hotel developers feel challenged to think outside of the box and also create something that is more unique, … I have found a lot of personal fulfilments, being able to give back to the local and regional community I have been a part of for all these years and ultimately, I hope I can inspire others to do the same.”

Karoline Troubetzkoy and her husband Nick created a hotel that makes the foliage and the flowers, the perfumes and the peaks, the sea

and the bird song an integral part of a vacation experience. It is claimed that the property produced more magazine covers and publicity for St Lucia than perhaps all other properties combined.

“Hospitality to me is really about caring for others. It’s about being a part of people’s lives in a meaningful, transformative and lasting way. We’re seeing travellers wanting to have authentic, immersive experiences that allow them to build a connection with the destination, especially with its people, ... Our love story resulted in creating Secret Bay” - founder and visionary, Gregor Nassief, has taken a family passion project and turned Secret Bay into a leading light for the hospitality sector that is recognised as one of the best resorts anywhere on earth.

“From day one, I keep my own motivation, I have to have what I think is the best, … I run on gut instinct to a large extent, but at the same time I never make a major decision without bouncing it off

Avoid these on your next first dates

Awkward pauses, sweaty palms, muddled sentences with a heightened clumsiness_ first dates are usually a nightmare! But what can a singleton like you do? A self-proclaimed expert on first dates, I want to help you bag a honey right from the get-go. Do not sabotage your relationship before it even begins. I won't let you!

This week, I looked deep at some of my past horrible first dates and brought to you some faux pas you should avoid on any first date. Call every babe on your phone, after reading this, you would certainly be better equipped to finally take that long crush of yours out. You can thank me later at the wedding.

DO NOT MENTION YOUR EX Don't do it! This is a big turnoff for a lot of people. Oftentimes, it is a sign that you’re not completely over your ex and your current date is merely a rebound. Talking about an ex-love forces your date

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

to wonder if you’re ready for someone new. No one has time to listen to your crazy-ex-Mary or Tom. That’s not cute.

DON’T GET DRUNK

I lost my chance with a fine doctor after I had a few too many Sauvignon Blanc. I knew quite well I was not equipped to go glass-for-glass, but I wanted to be sophisticated. Drinking should really be kept to a minimum— no more than two alcoholic beverages preferably. I could have been a kept man now had I played cool on that date.

GET OFF THAT PHONE

Between texting, tweeting, posting, and snapping, it can be hard to remember life outside the screen. Do not be the dude who is glued to their phone through a date. Set the phone aside and take this time to really focus on your date and get to know them. He/she may in return, show you some attention at the end of the night.

DO NOT GO BACK TO HIS/ HER PLACE THE SAME NIGHT

Let the excitement last a bit longer than one day. Keep the other partner interested for as long as

possible. Things that are rare are hard to find… at least that is what they say. I will say however, if they are out of your league and this is your only chance, know that only God can judge you.

AVOID TALKING TOO MUCH ABOUT YOURSELF

You are not there to listen to your own voice. Allow the other party to speak and show particular attention to them. Make sure to create a balance between speaking about yourself and asking questions about the other person. If you were so charming, you wouldn’t have been single.

DO NOT PRETEND TO BE SOMEONE YOU’RE NOT

If you “act” on your first date, what will happen when you try to get real later? Find ways to make yourself more sellable, but do not over-deliver. I thought I was a philanthropist because I once donated $10 to some charity… and now I have to live with that

one embellishing lie for the rest of my life.

DO NOT GIVE THEM ALL THAT YOUR MAMA GAVE YOU

You have only one chance to make a good impression. Don’t over-dress but also don't show up in a tracksuit. Find a balance and one that is appropriate. I won’t tell you what to wear, you should have enough material on your Pinterest to guide you.

AVOID CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS

Stray from conversations that divides. Politics, morals, justice or anything to do with gender roles or gender norms. I find nothing more unattractive than a bigot with contrasting viewpoints. No thank you.

What are some of your red flags in a relationship? Share what those may be on louisedens@ gmail.com.

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

CDR BUD SLABBAERT

Have we learned lessons from past hurricane disasters in the TCI?

Hard to believe it’s been a little over a month since Hurricane Fiona unleashed its fury on the Turks and Caicos Islands, with the Capital sustaining the bulk of the damages.

As a matter of fact, I’m still coming to grips that I survived the wrath of yet another category 3 hurricane battering down on these islands.

Despite the prediction by meteorologists on national television, which showed TCI was not in the direct path of the hurricane, residents took no chances this time. Unlike previous hurricanes, many residents seemed well prepared to face whatever came their way and fortunately there were no lives lost.

With the country having experienced a number of devastating storms in the past, I must say the recovery efforts and response showed much improvement compared to past disasters.

Although for the most part, the country as a whole made it through the storm practically unscarred, the aftermath of the hurricane is what always concerns me the most.

With that being said, what have we done significantly differently as a country to put us in a better position to hasten post-recovery efforts and make our infrastructure more resilient in the future?

BY ED FORBES

A concerned citizen of Grand Turk

In terms of additional manpower and support, the TCI Regiment is and was certainly an added layer of assistance. Also, kudos to the DDME management team and the decisive leadership exhibited by Deputy Governor Anya Williams, who was the acting Governor at the time.

Granted, electricity and water at the majority of the homes and businesses have been restored, but it’s still a painful reminder of the islands' vulnerability.

As far as the eyes can see, the impact literally and metaphorically peeled the scab off an already damaged infrastructure in Grand Turk, including the local airport.

The terminal doors designated for incoming passengers are offlimit to travellers. This forces travellers to haul their luggage through a gravelled parking lot area. With tourism being our bread and butter for the economy, one would hope this is on the priority list for repairs.

The remnants of the abandoned buildings at south base are still standing, despite promises made by both the current and previous administrations to have them

removed following disaster upon disaster.

What is the government’s plan this time around? Put out yet another contract to erect temporary barricades to hide the poor aesthetics?

One must ask, how much more taxpayers' dollars can we waste?

Stop putting on band-aids and take the buildings down.

The impact of the hurricane left telecommunication and electrical lines dangling in the streets and some homes without running water. Particularly in areas like the Ridge, it was an added setback as this community has been deprived for years now of adequate city water. Many residents are losing hope as to whether or not it will ever be restored.

Having gone through similar experiences with hurricanes Ike, Irma and Maria, it would have been prudent for FortisTCI to harden the targets even more. Such as allocating adequate funds to start reconstructing the island’s energy system with underground cables and for hazard mitigation.

Experts have predicted storms will get even more intense and

swift, as we have seen with Fiona. This is largely in part due to a result of higher atmospheric and ocean temperatures, making it harder for communities to prepare and adapt.

The residents of these islands greatly appreciate the $2.5m recently allocated to FortisTCI by TCIG to subsidise the cost of increased fuel charges.

Nevertheless, the buck should not stop there. With the soaring cost of burning fossil fuel, citizens across these islands would welcome the expansion of FortisTCI “UORE program”.

This programme was designed to offer qualifying customers the opportunity to partner with FortisTCI to lease their rooftop space for the generation of solar energy. It offers more alternatives and a way to move away from a centralised energy grid.

In the long run, I believe it would be cleaner, cheaper, and more resilient for the country.

There were also reports of damages done to Carnival cruise lines pier in Grand Turk, causing a delay in cruises to the island for a few weeks.

Although cruises have since resumed sailing, this was a hard blow and yet another setback for the Islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay. It was especially painful for some residents, who are still trying to bounce back on their feet

Wanting more

Between 1837-39, Charles Dickens wrote a novel in response to a disturbing piece of legislation in England called the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834. This new law was introduced to reduce the cost of looking after the poor, taking beggars off the street, and encouraging the poor to work to support themselves. While it looked to be a well-thoughtout and compassionate act, in reality, the law forced people into workhouses. While there they were fed, housed, clothed, and received schooling in exchange for working long and gruelling hours each day. Dicken’s novel was called Oliver Twist, named after a nine-year-old resident of one of the workhouses. One line, speaking about the food the boys received, says the boys were “issued three meals of thin gruel a day, with an onion twice a week, and half a roll on Sundays.” It was also said, “the bowls

from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which delayed cruises to the island for over 18 months.

Furthermore, if certain communities or areas are vulnerable or prone to a particular hazard such as flooding, and down power lines crucial to critical infrastructure, the plan should be to outline procedures and strategies for the specific disaster.

Case in point: Close Haul Road which is located in Grand Turk, is prone to flooding and is only one of many examples in Grand Turk and Providenciales. When flooded, this particular road impacts access to some homes for days, why not put in place a permanent fix?

As our population continues to grow, there has also been a huge growth in the number of people living in poorly constructed housing across these islands. What plans are in place to deal with displaced families or regulations to mandate reinforced building structures?

Again, this will take foresight and a proactive approach to addressing these issues.

It’s inevitable that another hurricane will strike and that resources and public attentiveness will follow. However, it’s imperative to not lose sight of successes and failures of the aftermath of the disaster period, because there will always be long-term lessons to learn from disasters.

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

never wanted washing. The boys polished them with their spoons they shone again”. However, it is this now iconic line that stands out,

“Child as he was, he was desperate with hunger and reckless with misery. He rose from the table; and advancing to the master, basin and spoon in hand, said: somewhat alarmed at his own temerity: 'Please, sir, I want some more.' (emphasis mine)

The response undertaken by the authorities to the recent uptick in criminal activity is commendable. The speed at which this all came

together was breathtaking. Like what it said in the scroll of Joshua when he marched 30,000 elite troops through the night to set up an ambush (Joshua 8:3) and another time when he marched the entire army to defeat a coalition of armies (Joshua 10:9), the authorities acted with boldness, strength, clarity of purpose and swiftness, unlike anything I have had the pleasure of seeing up close and personal. Let’s not allow this hugely defining moment to slip by without consideration and gratitude. And because this all happened so

quickly and decisively, it is not out of character to say “we want more”.

In the same spirit of collaboration, decisiveness and action steps can be taken towards eliminating, or at least minimising, many of the social ills that plague this land. More can be done. We just saw what could happen when there is a desire to make things happen. More should be done to ensure a better quality of life for those in need. Speaking about King Josiah this is what God said “He defended the cause of the poor

and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me, declares the LORD?” (Jeremiah 22:16). God calls on all those in authority to protect and fight for the poor and needy. Whether this entails job and social skills training, proactive and preemptive wellness training, or setting up a national mentoring programme which can be hashed out in more detail down the road by those who are skilled in such matters. But the point still stands, righteous leadership defends the cause of the poor and needy and when this is done blessings from God will flow upon the land and its people just as it says in Deuteronomy 15:10 - “Give generously to [them] and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to”

But the government is not the only institution called to look out for the poor and needy, the church is to do the same. Ephesians 2:10 says the believers of Jesus

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.

Government’s swift action to curb crime averts negative tourism fallout – Tourism Minister

Wanting more

Christ, those who make up the church, were created to do good works as a sign of their transformation. Each church in the TCI is called to do its part in taking care of those in need. The call to action is both for the government and the church. And it’s also to each individual.

Look at what it argues in 1 John 3:17-18 “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with

words or tongue but with action and in truth”. Every individual, when faced with the choice to help those in need, should do so when it is in their power to do so.

As a nation that constantly refers to its Christian heritage, let us heed the command found in John 13:34-35 to love one another because when we do we would have both experienced the love of Christ and showed it to others at the same time.

You Are Loved. So show it to others.

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Swift action taken by the government to quell an upsurge in violent crime has averted negative fallout in TCI’s tourism sector.

This is according to the Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly who recently stressed that it is imperative for the Turks and Caicos Islands to maintain its reputation as a safe destination.

“We have taken swift action over the past weeks and with the Premier we have taken other crisis management measures for our industry”, Connolly said during her Ministerial statement in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, October 19.

She added: “So far there is no indication of any negative fallout, however, we are continuing to monitor.”

Connolly emphasised that despite the territory’s challenge with the uprisal in gang-related violence and murders, responses from airlines are still “positive”.

Tourism craftsmen and masterminds in the ...

of a circle of people that I work with, … Our top priority will always be to surprise and delight our guests, … and developing new opportunities for guests.”

- Gordon “Butch” Stewart was one of the hospitality industry’s most vibrant personalities of whom was said that he changed how the world goes on vacation and was proclaimed “The King of Vacations”.

The Craftsman knows first-hand that the creation is not about him. It is about, and is for someone else, the customer. The craft is what’s connecting them. And the customer is a person, not a number in a mass.

The Craftsman is creating a project twice: first mentally, then physically. Before setting to work, the Master has already created his creation in his mind and plans how to bring a project to life from the womb to the tomb. A Craftsman is always

self-policing and the biggest critique of his own work. He accepts feedback and continues to make his work even better.

Although the Craftsman knows the importance of planning, he isn’t over-finicky about it. The Master prefers the rough sketch, knowing that unforeseen problems or opportunities can arise during a creation. He leaves room for improvisation and changes.

Fixing challenges can turn a creation into an experience.

The Craftsman is not a committee person but rather an individualist and sometimes a nonconformist.

Craftsman is not a title. Titles can be shallow, obsolete, and vague. Titles often inflate ego, whereas Craftsman-skills inflate value. Craftmanship is not a study degree, but rather like any art form, it must come from an inside conviction. It’s a human trait that allows

to be from non-traditional to groundbreaking. Such wording is typically not found in job descriptions. But not reckless, a Craftsman always measures twice, and cuts once.

Stunning beauty and friendly people are some of the defining characteristics of the Caribbean. And if there are weaknesses, some of history’s greatest men turned them into strength and have seen them as creative opportunities and incorporated them as unique and interesting. The region should be positioned to capitalise on its resources and opportunities. Upper-class products require upper-class Craftsman.

Masterminds and Leadersof-Change who use their signature strengths and virtues in the service of tourism and hospitality, and represent something much larger than they are themselves, are a key to success in the Caribbean.

The Tourism Minister reminded citizens of the adverse effects of crime on the tourism industry and urged them to cooperate with law enforcement officials as they work assiduously to protect both residents and guests from criminal elements.

“We cannot afford to have any negative stains on these islands.

I call on all of us, all of us, to be vigilant and supportive of our law enforcement agencies as they seek to maintain peace in our islands.

“We have our image to protect! We have our product to protect.

“We have our lives and our livelihood to protect, let us claim our heritage of peace.

“I continue to stand in support of the actions we have taken to address the scourge of crime towards our citizens and our visitors.

“In the end though, it is our responsibility as a community of law-abiding peaceful people to ensure that the criminal element remains at bay”, she underscored.

She further highlighted that several criminal justice bills were tabled in the House of Assembly last week to put a serious dent in gang crime and bolster law enforcement powers; such as the Police Force Amendment

Bill, and the Interception of Communications bill.

“The powers are not to be abused, but are meant to be used to address the increase in gun crimes and gang violence.”

She pointed out that the bills are a response to the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force's identification of gaps or issues that hinder the work they have to do and to ensure criminals are successfully apprehended and the rate of violent crime is decreased.

“We are against gangs. We want the police to be given additional authority to stop and search, to receive intelligence, to monitor firearms to protect our witnesses.

“We must have stiffer penalties for those who chose to disobey our laws, those who possess illegal firearms, manufacture, sell them; especially those high powered firearms.

“That is not us as Turks and Caicos Islanders. For those who harbour criminals that perpetuate crime, this is not who we are.

“The laws must be enforced, we have given the police additional resources and we depend on the actions of our good public, our good citizens, for all of us to work together to stem the spate of crimes”, Connolly added.

Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly

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

Lucy-Ann Rigby

A shining example of growth

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: “People learn best whenever they want to learn”, is the philosophy that drives Lucy-Ann Rigby, housekeeping supervisor at Beaches Turks & Caicos, as she helps in guiding the minds of those she leads.

Having received her secondary education at Clement Howell High school, the resort’s 27-year veteran’s first foothold into a professional career happened as she walked through the doors of Beaches Turks & Caicos (BTC) then Royal Bay resort on October 29, 1995.

Said Rigby, “I had no experience at all, but when circumstances forced me into seeking employment, the best place was to build from the ground up, and this period of growth started with me making the choice to be a housekeeper and join this resort family.”

Starting her career and a successful journey of learning and development with Beaches has been a most rewarding undertaking for Rigby. With consistent advancement from room attendant, to elite room attendant and then a promotion to supervisor in 2010, Rigby sees her growth as one synonymous with opportunities available at Beaches.

Adding that her passion for development is not

only dedicated to herself, but also shared with the team members she leads, Rigby remarked that, “The structure of our entire housekeeping team here at Beaches is about team work. As a leader, I remain firm and fair, while we work together to meet our objectives, build relationships as well as foster the growth of each member of the team.”

Rigby attributes her advancement not only to her own commitment to growth but also the support from her managers as well as the learning opportunities provided through the company’s Sandals Corporate University. “I have pursued multiple certificate courses to include communication, customer services, leadership, supervisor management, and train-the-trainer certification. These have been very pivotal to me becoming the professional leader I am today, and the knowledge gained from these courses have also helped me in my personal life, and shared with my four children,” she added.

Meanwhile, Housekeeping Manager, Delretha Allen was swift to share her own praises for, and joy in having Rigby as one of her supervisors. Said Allen, “Lucy-Ann is one of the most meticulous members of the housekeeping leadership core. She is passionate about what she does each day and leads by example. She is a true mentor to her

colleagues who have all learned so much from her. Lucy-Ann has shown her mettle as a strong supporter of the mission of the BTC brand and she continuously champions the charge of the resort to enhance the island’s hospitality industry offerings.”

For his part, General Manager, James McAnally was equally effusive, adding, “In my interactions with Lucy-Ann, she is always humble and courteous towards her colleagues and guests. Having a leader like Lucy-Ann on our team is a tremendous asset as she so easily raises the bar for her team members, integrates the local culture into the job, and she finds time to engage our guests to share her knowledge about the tranquil beauty of our breathtaking Turks and Caicos Islands.”

“Beaches employees are seen as a true asset to our beautiful islands. We are well trained and we pride ourselves on giving the highest quality service to the people with whom we interact, whether they be locals or visitors. The training opportunities at Beaches Turks and Caicos allow every team member to grow and mature in any area of employment. This is the most ideal place to start or develop or finish your career in Turks and Caicos and I am proud to be a part of team Beaches TCI,” Rigby shared.

Lucy-Ann Rigby (left) Housekeeping Supervisor at Beaches Turks and Caicos completes a demonstration with Housekeeper Rhoda Jinson at the resort as both women share the passion of giving guests more than he or she expects

Lucy-Ann Rigby, Housekeeping Supervisor at Beaches Turks and Caicos continues to give service above self as she leads a team of dynamic housekeepers while being firm, fair, and friendly.

Lucy-Ann Rigby (right) Housekeeping Supervisor at Beaches Turks and Caicos shares a teaching and learning moment with Waedian Pearce, Houseman at Beaches Turks and Caicos during one of her routine visits.

Oreta Stubbs

professional on a mission at Beaches

A Turks and Caicos Islander who has contributed more than 27 years of service to the hospitality sector, has taken on the mission to help build the next generation of hospitality professionals, one day at a time.

Oreta Stubbs, laundry attendant at Beaches Turks & Caicos, was born in North Caicos and moved to Providenciales at the age of 21 to join her husband. She joined the BTCI team shortly thereafter.

Describing herself as very inquisitive and always ready to jump at an opportunity to learn a new skill, Stubbs has garnered experiences across the hospitality industry as a chef, room attendant, shift leader in the laundry department, and now a near 20-year veteran laundry attendant who has decided to pace herself and do her part in helping to groom the younger generation.

“After joining Beaches Turks & Caicos in 1995, I was soon promoted to a supervisory position, which allowed me to build a great relationship with my team. Due to family commitments however, and in consultation with my manager, I opted not to continue in that role. This was one of the hardest decisions that I had to make but it has served me well and I have no regrets,” Stubbs shared.

As Stubbs continued to reflect on her journey, she shared what she felt are the main characteristics needed to grow within the industry.

Front of mind for her, is being able to adjust and prepare for whatever may come. “My advice to those with aspirations to work in the industry is to always be cognizant of the fact that it takes hard work, commitment and respect for self and others to be successful. Placing priority on what is important and to create a plan from which to grow as a professional, are pillars on which to cultivate a successful way forward,” Stubbs added.

In sharing his experience of this veteran, General Manager James McAnally added, “Oreta is a genuine hard worker who constantly brightens my day. Whether it’s a quick hello or sitting down for a conversation, she is always positive, humble and has an absolutely contagious attitude that I respect and appreciate. Even though she may not hold a supervisor title, she is well respected and is a natural leader.”

Seen as an on-resort inspiration to others, it was with pride that Richard Myers, laundry department manager shared his thoughts on his veteran staff. “Oreta is a very dependable and knowledgeable team leader who is always willing to help in the management of the department. With a number of younger workers at the resort, she is able to help in managing the standard of the department here at Beaches Turks and Caicos in providing the most memorable experience to our guests each day,” Myers noted.

Stubbs, who is also a mother of five adult

children, went on to add that, “It gives me great joy to share the great work ethic, the values and skills that I have acquired during my professional years, with those new to the department as well as the members of my own family. I also love the fact that the Beaches Turks and Caicos is committed to allowing employees to grow and achieve their fullest potential. The resort provides opportunities to not only grow within a department or cross-train in other areas, but also present opportunities at other sister-resorts throughout the Caribbean. My work family was understanding when I made the decision to stay close to home, especially during my children’s formative years and this decision is one that I am satisfied with even to this day, as it has afforded me the ability to still learn on the job and take care of my family.”

Ryan Campbell, a laundry supervisor, was happy to share that the depth of his own knowledge within the area has been cemented by Stubbs. Said Campbell: “The guidance and directive that I have received from Oreta is without a doubt, nothing that I could have learned from any institution. She is simply a reservoir of expert knowledge and she is always happy to share with the younger team. She is a stickler for punctuality and is someone who ensures that the quality and standards of the Beaches brand are always reflected in every task.”

Oreta Stubbs, (right) Laundry Attendant at Beaches Turks and Caicos shares a moment with her daughter Elice Baniden, Laundry Attendant at the Laundry department at the Beaches Turks and Caicos.

Oreta Stubbs veteran Laundry Attendant at Beaches Turks and Caicos prepares to place a beach towel on one of the folding machines at the Laundry department

Oreta Stubbs (right) Laundry Attendant at the Beaches Turks and Caicos as an extraordinary leader always makes time to help in the career growth of her team members, here she shows Laundry Attendant Olondieu Celeus the art of checking linin in the department

Two female officers certified as drill instructors

History has been made within the ranks of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force with the certification of two female officers as drill instructors.

Having successfully completed a rigorous five-week course at the Barbados Coast Guard

Ship Pelican, Sergeants Sherina Lightbourne and Laura-Lee Jagroop returned to the Turks and Caicos Islands on October 16.

The training included drills in the field of foot, rifle, sword and colours and pace stick. The officers also learned planning procedures for events such as ceremonial parades, military funerals and engaged in

several simulation exercises.

The duo was among 35 participants who came from the Barbados Defence Force (Regiment and Coast Guard), Barbados Police Service, Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force, Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, Royal St Lucia Police Force and RTCIPF.

This was the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands was represented at such a course and both officers have expressed that they are proud of their achievement and newly acquired skills which will be used within the force.

Rotaract TCI hosts inaugural Youth Leadership Seminar at Beaches

The Rotaract Clubs of the Turks and Caicos Islands hosted its inaugural Youth Leadership Seminar at the Beaches Hotel and Spa in Providenciales.

The Youth Leadership Seminar, sponsored by the Department of Youth Affairs, Beaches and the Royal Bank of Canada catered to about 80 youth aged 17-30.

Attendees included students from the Edward Garland Youth Centre and the TCI Community College.

The event, which took place on Saturday (October 22) featured various interactive and informative training sessions under the theme Leadership by Design and Growth through V.I.B.E.S, the acronym for Rotaract District 7020, which stands for Valuing members, Innovation, Bridging borders, Expanding networks and Showing up for service.

The seminar featured informative sessions on leadership

and achieving success in the TCI and was moderated by Social Worker and Musician Rotaractor Andy Missick.

The event began with remarks being brought by Ms Keisha Taylor, Deputy-Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education on behalf of Hon Rachel Taylor and Director of Youth Affairs Ms Jasmine Thomas who were instrumental in the staging of the event. Ms Taylor underscored the importance of achieving youth development mandates through partnerships with non – government entities to provide youth with “the skills resources and platforms to become productive and successful individuals”.

She also encouraged attendees to “be the change and light that our country needs in these challenging times” to help to change the trajectory of the lives of at risk youth.

The first session of the day was

Youth Economic Empowerment, Tips on Achieving Financial Freedom in the TCI which was led by financial professional, Mr Drexwell Seymour who encouraged financial stability and budgeting, controlling spending and being intentional with money and savings.

He also counselled a little more restraint with our love of brandnamed things and expensive vacations.

Arnelle Taylor, Partner at Wessex Fairchild Attorneys spoke about Entrepreneurial Resilience: Surviving and Thriving in Unprecedented Times.

She spoke about knowing and demonstrating value and appreciating it in our teams. Innovation was also touted as important, finding what you are good at and finding a way to monetise that niche. A quote that she left with us is “consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative”. Problem-solving requires creativity

and freedom to innovate.

She also encouraged networking with a purpose.

Conflict Resolution was next up led by Ms Melanie Smith who encouraged attendees to remember they are all the glue when they work as part of a team with no person more important than the other, all playing their roles.

She also taught a few techniques for finding common ground, with listening possibly being the most important.

The panel discussion on Leadership and Personal Branding was carried by Anya Pratt designer of WILLIQUE, Sheba Wilson, author and executive coach and Leonardo Lightbourne. In responses to questions, Lightbourne underscored the importance of being purpose-led, being open and honest and having a tribe to push you. Sheba Wilson stated that Leadership involves finding your purpose.

Pratt reminded attendees of the value of standing out, leading by being your authentic self and being that unicorn. On personal branding, all panellists agreed that being your authentic self and allowing people to see who you are as a person are essential parts of being a leader.

Rotary in Action or “Rotaract” operates in Providenciales and Grand Turk, but does projects throughout the islands. Rotaract is a non-profit community and professional service organisation founded in 1968 by Rotary International, an association of service-minded business and professional leaders.

Through Rotaract, young professionals ages 18 and older are able to exchange ideas, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fellowship through service to our community.

A key objective of Rotaract clubs globally is the development of leadership skills.

The seminar featured informative sessions on leadership and on achieving success in the TCI.

The event catered to about 80 youth between the ages of 17-30.

Sergeant Laura-Lee Jagroop

Sergeant Sherina Lightbourne

Canada: Quebec separatist party calls for split with British monarchy

WITH the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, the Canadian province of Quebec is reviving a debate on the country’s ties to the British monarchy.

On Wednesday, Canadian parliamentarians overwhelmingly voted no to severing ties with the monarchy, after Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet introduced a motion that sparked a conversation in the House of Commons about the monarchy.

His move follows the refusal of 14 recently elected Quebec politicians to recite an oath of allegiance to the King during their swearing-in to the provincial legislature, as required by Canadian law.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Blanchet admitted that he had expected his motion to fail, but he said it would show Quebecers that federal politicians “prefer to support the King than the people”.

In Canada, the monarch - now King Charles - is the head of state. The monarchy serves a mainly symbolic role, with the power to govern entrusted to the Canadian government.

Changing the current system would need approval from both the House of Commons and the Senate in parliament, as well as the unanimous consent of all 10 provinces.

While Mr Blanchet’s motion has failed, the future of Quebec politicians who refused to swear the oath to the Crown remains uncertain.

Their refusal could lead to a bill that seeks to redefine the requirement to take the oath of allegiance in the

province - if they are able to sit in Quebec’s legislature at all - and political watchers say they are eager to see how the dispute unfolds.

QUEBECERS HAVE LONGOPPOSED THE CROWN Quebec’s relationship with the monarchy is complex. Many Quebecers are in favour of Canada being a republic rather than a constitutional monarchy - a sentiment that is tied to the province’s history of being a French-speaking region that was once under British colonial rule.

The province has twice voted against independence in referendums, and the push for Quebec sovereignty has weakened over the years. But Quebec politicians have continued to put forward policies that seek to define the province as distinct from English Canada.

When tabling his motion on

Tuesday, Mr Blanchet said he believes Canada’s tie to the British Crown is “archaic.”

“It is a thing of the past, it is almost archaeological, it is humiliating,” he said.

Frustration with the oath of allegiance to the Crown isn’t new. As early as 1970, members of the sovereigntist Parti Quebecois, a separatist provincial political party in Quebec, had openly opposed it.

Their opposition led to the creation of a second, supplementary oath in 1982 that also pledges loyalty to the people of Quebec.

Since then, politicians in that province have had to recite both oaths before taking office. In 2018, some recited the oath to the Crown behind closed doors in protest.

Mr Blanchet, whose party represents Quebec interests in the federal House of Commons, said many recite the oath only because they have to.

“We are a conquered people that still have to swear allegiance to a conquering King,” he said.

This sentiment was echoed by the 14 members of Quebec’s National Assembly, who have not yet recited the oath ahead of the assembly’s commencement in November - an unprecedented number of politicians to do so.

“What’s happening now is really dramatic,” said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, who added the politicians may not be able to sit or receive their salary without reciting the oath.

“The Constitution Act of 1867 clearly states that to become a member of a provincial legislature, you need to perform the oath of allegiance,” Beland said.

“There is quite a bit of suspense about what will happen.”

Ewan Suaves, spokesperson for Quebec Premier Francois Legault, said the law is clear that politicians must recite the oath in order to sit. But added that the premier, too, opposes it.

“We agree that it’s time to end the obligation to swear allegiance to King Charles III, but it takes a Bill in order to do so. And to present or pass a Bill, the [members] must sit,” Mr Suaves said.

HOW DOES THE REST OF CANADA FEEL ABOUT THE CROWN?

Opinion polls suggest Canada as a whole remains divided on the monarchy. In an Ipsos survey conducted following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, half of Canadian respondents - around

54% - said their country should sever its ties with the Crown.

That sentiment is strongest in Quebec, where 79% agreed.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, however, has said the monarchy offers his country “extraordinary stability”.

In response to Mr Blanchet’s motion asking Canada to sever its ties to the Crown, Mr Trudeau said “there is not one Quebecer who wants the [Canadian] constitution reopened”.

Mr Beland said that at a time when Quebec’s independence movement has weakened, there has been more emphasis on symbolic assertions of sovereignty - like refusing to take the oath of allegiance.

He added the refusal to take the oath could be a way to seize political momentum by the Parti Quebecois, who lost seats in the recent election.

“This is about broad principles, but this is also a lot about political posturing,” Mr Beland said.

Amending the oath requirement is also a complicated task, and there is disagreement among experts on how it can be done.

Some believe a bill passed by the Quebec National Assembly would be enough to replace or amend the oath of allegiance. Others, however, believe any changes to the oath would require an amendment of Canada’s constitution.

The latter, “of course, is much more difficult to do”, said Mr Beland, as it would require agreement from all of Canada’s provinces. (BBC)

Russia moves to ban ‘LGBT propaganda’ among all ages

RUSSIAN lawmakers backed a bill on Thursday that would expand an existing ban on the promotion of “LGBT propaganda” among children to include people of all ages, a move critics see as an attempt to further intimidate and oppress sexual minorities.

Authorities have already used existing laws to stop gay pride marches and detain gay rights activists.

Under the new bill, passed unanimously on its first reading by the lower house State Duma, any event or act deemed to promote homosexuality - online, in film, in books, in advertising or in publiccould incur a hefty fine.

Lawmakers say they are defending morality in the face of what they argue are “un-Russian” liberal values promoted by the West, but human rights groups say

the moves are designed to outlaw representations of minorities such as lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people (LGBT) in public life.

Under the legislation, citizens could be fined up to 400,000 roubles ($6,500) for promoting “LGBT propaganda”.

Legal entities face fines of up to 5 million roubles, while foreigners found guilty of offences would face deportation from Russia.

‘HYBRID WARFARE’

One of the key architects of the bill, lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, has denied that it represents an act of censorship.

“We are not banning references to LGBT as a phenomenon. We are banning propaganda and the wording is extremely important here,” he said at a hearing last

week.

“LGBT today is an element of hybrid warfare and in this hybrid warfare we must protect our values, our society and our children,” he

said.

LGBT Network, which offers legal aid, has called the bill an “absurd” attempt to humiliate and discriminate against the LGBT

community.

“Lawmakers suggest that the adult, capable population is not in a position to choose what to say, watch and read,” it said.

“In fact, what is happening is the total state abolition of LGBT+,” a representative from LGBT Network told Reuters.

“They want to ban us not only from talking about ourselves or somehow demonstrating our feelings for our partners, but also to completely erase any mention of us in culture: books, films, media and the like,” they said.

TikTok, a video-sharing app, was fined 3 million roubles this month for promoting “videos with LGBT themes”, while Russia’s media regulator asked publishing houses to look at withdrawing all books containing “LGBT propaganda” from sale. (Reuters)

Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet said he believes the monarchy in Canada is “a thing of the past.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin

Rishi Sunak brings back fracking ban in first PMQs

The ban on shale gas fracking in England has been restored by new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in his first PMQs.

His predecessor Liz Truss had lifted the ban on the controversial process where there was local consent.

In his first full day in the job, Mr Sunak also defended reappointing Suella Braverman as home secretary just days after she quit over data breaches.

During Prime Minister’s Questions he would not commit to increasing benefits in line with prices.

However, Mr Sunak said he would continue to “protect the most vulnerable”.

His spokesman also refused to comment on whether the state pension would rise with inflation ahead of a statement by the chancellor next month.

Jeremy Hunt is now due to set out the government’s plans for tax and spending on 17 November, after delaying the announcement by more than two weeks.

Ms Truss announced her decision to lift the ban on fracking, which involves drilling into the earth to recover gas from shale rock, in September. With energy bills rising, she argued fracking could boost the UK’s gas supplies.

But the move provoked a backlash from many Conservative MPs because of concerns about

Fracking has been opposed by environmental groups and local communities.

earth tremors linked to fracking.

The controversial process was halted in 2019 following opposition from environmental groups and local communities.

Labour and other opposition parties are also against the return of fracking.

Asked by Green MP Caroline Lucas if he would restore the moratorium on fracking pledged in the Conservatives’ 2019 manifesto, Mr Sunak said: “I have already said I stand by the manifesto on that.”

The Tories’ general election manifesto said the party would not support fracking unless the science showed “categorically” that it could be carried out safely.

The PM’s official spokesman later confirmed Mr Sunak was committed to this promise.

Mr Sunak has previously expressed support for fracking. Just a week ago he voted against a Labour motion to ban the practice.

Asked during a Tory leadership debate with Ms Truss in July

whether he would support fracking, he replied: “Yes, if local communities support it.”

Labour’s shadow climate and net zero secretary Ed Miliband said: “Whatever their latest position, the truth is that the Tories have shown that they cannot be trusted on the issue of fracking. The only way to guarantee that fracking will be banned for good is to elect a Labour government.”

The move was welcomed by environmental groups, with

Friends of the Earth describing it as a “fantastic victory for common sense”.

Sam Hall, director of the Conservative Environment Network, said: “[Fracking] is unpopular, and few communities would approve fracking projects locally, meaning little or no gas would be extracted, despite the high political cost.

“Instead, the government should focus on building more cheap and popular renewables, including onshore wind and solar where there is local support.”

Chaos surrounding a vote on fracking, brought by Labour last week, contributed to Ms Truss’s swift downfall, just 44 days after she took office.

The evening before her resignation, there were accusations of Tory MPs being bullied and manhandled during the vote.

Ministers denied physical force had been used to persuade colleagues to vote with the government.

The government ultimately won the vote with a majority of 96, but 40 Tories did not take part.

The Scottish and Welsh governments continue to oppose fracking, and say they will not use their powers to grant drilling licences.

In the past consent to begin fracking has been given only for two sites in Lancashire, neither of which are now in operation. (BBC)

British Caribbean diaspora reacts to PM Rishi Sunak

THE British Caribbean Diaspora is among those around the globe reacting to the historic appointment of the UK’s first ever prime minister of colour, Rishi Sunak.

“Today is a historic day in British politics, with the appointment of Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister of the UK,” Bishop Dr. Desmond Jaddoo, the Chair & Director of the Windrush National Organisation, told News Americas in a statement. “Britain has always celebrated its diversity but has never embraced it. It is time that this is done and having a Prime Minister whose parents are African/Asian, I would hope would bring greater understanding of the inequality faced by the Windrush Generations and their descendants, by ensuring that the playing field is levelled.”

“No matter the political background it is one of the utmost achievements in the world that our young people tomorrow’s leaders can aspire to know, no matter your background you can make it, providing that the Prime Minister has the courage to effectively level

the playing field of inequality,” Jaddoo added.

On Twitter, MP and Shadow Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, whose parents’ David and Rosalind Lammy were born in Guyana, once a British colony, also saluted the historical significance of the moment.

“This is a hugely significant moment for the UK’s visible diversity,” Lammy tweeted. “The country has come a very long way since my father arrived in 1956. He would never have believed our city would be home to a Hindu Prime Minister and a Muslim Mayor.”

Twitter user John Oladele noted on the social media platform that while the moment is “great,” Sunak “must recognize the FACT that #Windrush1947 Caribbean people of African descent laid the foundation for this historic moment.”

While Historian Olivette Otele tweeted: “Already asked to write commentary on race & new PM. What is there to say, my people? Cornel West said it all. ‘Black

faces in higher places’ only, doesn’t work and for so many reasons. We need much more meat on that bone

of contention.”

Sunak became Britain’s third prime minister of the year

today after King Charles III welcomed the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to Buckingham Palace and invited him to become Prime Minister and form a new government. Sunak quickly got to work naming his cabinet that shockingly included the controversial Home Secretary under the Liz Truss administration, Sue-Ellen Cassiana Braverman, who quit last week for breaching government rules. Her reappointment on Tuesday came hours after Sunak pledged to lead the Conservative party with “integrity, professionalism and accountability” on the steps of No 10.

The move riled the group Windrush Lives as it tweeted: “The newly appointed, formerly disgraced Home Secretary, along with the newly appointed, formerly disgraced Lord Chancellor/Justice Secretary, represent a new, old low for the rights of asylum seekers and migrants, and for justice for Britons, including the Windrush generation.” (Newsamericasnow)

Rishi Sunak becomes UK’s first-ever prime minister of colour.

OECS backs continued push for self-determination on BVI

MEMBERS of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have called on the United Kingdom Government to remove the Order in Council, which has the power to suspend the British Virgin Islands’ Constitution.

The UK Government filed the Order in Council in the Privy Council in June as a safety measure to ensure officials on the British Virgin Islands implement reforms meant to address governance concerns which were highlighted in a Commission of Inquiry report.

If the order is used, the UK Government can impose direct rule on the BVI.

The Heads of Government

and Political Representatives met last week at the 72nd Meeting of the OECS Authorityto discuss the reform process on the British Virgin Islands.

A statement from the BVI Government said 23 per cent of the reforms have been completed.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley and his Government of National Unity were commended for their commitment to bring good governance to the BVI and for their steadfast implementation of reforms.

“[The Authority] applauds the Government of National Unity for continuing to meet the

needs of the people of the British Virgin Islands while reforms are being implemented [and] pledges technical assistance to support the Government of National Unity’s implementation of the reform Framework,” the OECS stated.

The body said it objects to the UK imposing direct colonial rule on the BVI and has supported the premier’s request for a members of the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) to visit the territory.

The OECS has called on the UK to respect the democratic and human rights of British Virgin Islanders. (Loop News)

Bahamas: Liberalised work permit regime an ‘impossibility’

A Cabinet minister on Tuesday argued the liberalised work permit regime introduced by the former Minnis administration “has to be repealed” because it is “an impossibility” to conduct the necessary due diligence within the deadlines.

Keith Bell, minister for labour and immigration, said ahead of this week’s Cabinet meeting that he and the Immigration Department will “not be following the Commercial Enterprises Act” because the timelines for approving work permits for the industries specified simply cannot be met.

“The former administration passed the Commercial Enterprises Act of 2017…. and the legislation says the director of immigration… shall determine any work permit applied for not later than 14 working days after the filing thereof, and the payment of the application fee, failing which the work permit shall be deemed to have been granted pursuant to this Act and may only be later revoked if the director has reasonable grounds for so doing on the basis of public safety, public morality, or national security,” he asserted.

While acknowledging that the Act indicates Immigration-related issues were as much a problem for the Minnis administration as its Philip Davis-led successor, Mr Bell argued that this administration would never never bypassed “due diligence” to fast track work permits in such a blanket fashion.

He argued: “I would submit that the problem of Immigration is an age-old problem. We all know that we have our challenges or concerns, but in the face of all of this, we have had the former administration pass the Commercial Enterprises Act in

2017, which mandated that 14 days after the date of an application to work, a permit will be issued regardless of due diligence.

“I know having sat in the chair now, as the minister of immigration, that it is almost an impossibility for an application to be submitted today and, within 14 days, that the Immigration Department would have done its due diligence. It is impossible.

“It has always been the policy of the Government, collectively, but it has always been a policy of Immigration and, certainly, this government, that when a person applies for a work permit we have to ensure that they have a medical record, we have to make sure they have a police record,” Mr Bell continued.

“We have to ensure that a labour certificate is issued, we have to make sure that the documents issued are not fraudulent. We have to check with the country from which the individual came. How could that possibly take two weeks to do?”

Thus the Commercial Enterprises Act “has to be repealed”, Mr Bell asserted, adding that he is in talks with the Attorney General’s Office to achieve this. He did not give a timeline for its repeal, whether the Act will be replaced or when this is likely to make it to Parliament.

“It is again before the Office of the Attorney General. What I will tell the Bahamian public is, as minister of labour and immigration, I will not be following this particular thing and that there will be due diligence under this administration in respect of all of the applications,” Mr Bell said.

Responding to questions

about what he believes is an appropriate time for work permits to be processed and approved, the minister replied: “In my estimation, I would say between six and 12 weeks. But even then, even now, have regard that the Government of The Bahamas issues approximately 15,000 work permits per year and, from all indications, that is the approvals and not the applications, which are being made every year.

“The Department goes through approximately 30,000 applications per year. So, when a person applies for a work permit, when they present all of the requisite documents etc… you have to do due diligence for all of those applications, and so a significant number of those applications I, in fact, refused. So I can assure the people that it isn’t as though it’s a carte blanche. Overall, you make the application, it is [vetted] and it is approved.”

Michael Pintard, the Opposition’s leader, who yesterday defended the intent behind the former administration’s passage

of the Commercial Enterprises Act (see other article on Page 20), argued that Mr Bell “should not confuse” this specific matter with “broader Immigration issues in the country”.

“He should be ensuring there is efficiency in the system and that we are not frustrating opportunities for Bahamians,” he said of the minister, “and that we define the terms of entry for persons wanting to establish businesses in The Bahamas.

“We must define the terms they come in on so that Bahamians are consistently at the front of the line to benefit the most from their country, but those investors who cast their lot with us long-term we get to define the rules and how we integrate them into the system and society. We need to be careful that, in protecting Bahamians, we are not feeding xenophobia.”

The process contained in the Commercial Enterprises Act allows senior foreign management and key personnel to enter the Bahamas and establish physical businesses -

but only in the targeted industries identified by the legislationwithout first possessing a work permit.

Such a permit must be applied for within 30 days of their entry, and the Bill mandates the Director of Immigration to make a decision on approval within 14 days of receiving the application. Should the Director not respond within that timeframe, the work permit is “automatically deemed to have been granted”.

Work permits issued under the Bill’s provisions were to be for a three-year period, and are renewable for the same duration. They can only be revoked on grounds of “public safety, public morality or national security”, but it is unclear how widely the Commercial Enterprises Act has been used to assist business and investment given the prolonged interruption caused by COVID-19.

The Act was designed to enable a ‘specified commercial enterprise’ to obtain an Investments Board certificate, granting it a specific number of work permits for certain positions. A special unit within the Investments Board, called the Commercial Enterprises Facilitation Unit, was to be created to oversee this process.

The ‘certificate’, which was to be initially issued for one year and can be renewed, would allow key personnel to set up the company’s physical operations in the Bahamas before they obtained a work permit. The legislation was thus designed to bring certainty and predictability to the work permit approval process, something often cited as a major impediment to the smooth conduct of commerce in the Bahamas.

A statement from the BVI Government said 23 per cent of the reforms have been completed.

Labour and Immigration Minister Keith Bell.

Regional

Bahamas: Older men less likely to want marital rape outlawed

OLDER Bahamian men are less inclined than younger people to believe in the existence of marital rape - and also less likely to believe that it should be outlawed.

Despite this, according to a study in the International Journal of Bahamian Studies which saw 2,845 people interviewed in the Spring of this year, overall there was support — over 50 percent — for outlawing spousal rape.

Other findings from the study show that 15 percent of ever married women were raped; 14 percent had consented to unwanted sexual intercourse with their partners, and those who consented to unwanted intercourse were 11.1 percent more likely to have also been raped when compared to those who had not consented to unwanted sex.

“A Preliminary Study on Unwanted Sexual Intercourse within Long-term Relationships in The Bahamas” was presented at the University of The Bahamas this week and gave further insight into how spousal sexual abuse is perceived among certain

demographics.

The Tribune had previously reported early findings from this report which found that one in 12, or an estimated 4,000 married women, have been raped by their husbands.

The study suggested that around 6,000 wives claimed being victims of sexual abuse. This would be any sexual activity that occurs without consent and refers to a sexual assault or sexual violence, including unwanted sexual touching, forced oral sex, and rape, among other sexual acts.

On Tuesday, William Fielding, adjunct faculty member of University of The Bahamas, said the study looked particularly at relationships that lasted for one year or more.

“Relationships aren’t static. You have relationships that look like marriage even though they haven’t actually signed on the dotted line and what we’re trying to do in this piece of research is avoid the casual relationships and any possibility of date rape,” he said.

He also said: “The group of people who are the least likely to agree that marital rape can occur and least likely to feel that marital rape should be outlawed is this male group aged 55 and over and the importance of this group, of course, is its going to encapsulate the group of males, that group who have the power to change the law, I won’t say anything more about that and, of course, when we look outside of the state administration the other people that are vocal on this issue on the religious side they tend to males of the older age group.

“So when we are hearing these voices that are casting doubt upon marital rape in fact these are the voices that are very much typical from what we would find from the data.

“What is interesting is that in the other age groups, male and female, there is far more support for outlawing marital rape. So, overall the data does support that there is a clear support to outlaw marital rape and a clear acknowledgement that rape can occur within marriage

however you want to call it, which suggests that even if the law is not changed immediately as those younger people age and they’re replaced by other people who will be wanting to think in a similar way that change is going to occur later rather than sooner.”

Closer analysis of the findings show that 63.5 percent of men in the 18 to 24 age group and 72.1 percent of women agreed that a husband can rape his wife.

However in the 55 and over age group, this fell to 45.1 percent, while 61.2 percent of women in the same age group believe this.

While most females — 69 percent — had not been hit by their long-term partner, were not fearful of their partner and had not had sex with their partner against their will, four percent of females had suffered from all of these concerning issues.

“While these percentages may not seem large, they potentially indicate that based upon the 2010 census, around 7,300 of women may fall into this group. Further,

this figure represents a relatively large percentage of those who suffer just one of these issues, except the hit by partner group, and demonstrates the co-occurrence of these matters in the lives of women who have experienced long-term relationships,” the report noted. “We can also note that when women are subject to physical violence, they have almost a 50 percent chance of being subject to other behaviours of concern.”

The report said the results from this study are in broad agreement with the estimates for marital rape reported from the USA.

“We should note that this study gives estimates of the lifetime experience of rape within longterm relationships; it does not attempt to estimate the occurrence of rape of women only within marriage. However, our estimate of between about 15-30 percent of women being victims of rape in their long-term relationships demonstrates that women need protection from harm even within stable relationships.” (Tribune242)

Prominent Haitian journalist survives assassination attempt

A WELL-KNOWN Haitian journalist survived an assassination attempt in which he was shot in his car while on his way to work in the capital Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, officials said.

Roberson Alphonse, who works at the daily newspaper Le Nouvelliste and radio station Magik9, has undergone two operations so far and is hospitalised and expected to recover, according to Frantz Duval, chief editor for both media.

The incident highlights the deteriorating security situation in a country racked by gang violence.

Haiti’s Ministry of Culture and Communication said it learned “with horror the news of the assassination attempt” that occurred in the Delmas neighbourhood.

“His rigour, his effort to be impartial, and his sense of perfection make him a model for the profession,” the ministry said in a statement.

Many colleagues echoed the sentiment, including Widlore Mérancourt of the online news site AyiboPost.

“My friend, Roberson Alphonse could be anything he wants anywhere in the world. He picked Haiti. He also could’ve (made) millions selling his platforms. He opted for integrity and

independence. I love him and I wish him well,” he wrote.

Duval thanked an unidentified person he said rescued Alphonse and applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding before medical help arrived. He noted the car had more than 10 bullet holes.

BODY OF ANOTHER JOURNALIST FOUND

The attack on Alphonse comes just weeks after Haitian leaders requested the immediate

deployment of foreign security forces as the country faces an unprecedented crisis.

Also on Tuesday, authorities found the body of another journalist who had been missing for several days.

Garry Tess used to host a political talk show in the southern city of Les Cayes, according to the government’s Office of Citizen Protection, which said it was extremely worried about the security of journalists in Haiti and

urged they be protected.

No one has been arrested in either case, although journalists in Haiti have long been the target of warring gangs who have grown more powerful since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

Meanwhile, the president of Haiti’s Senate, Joseph Lambert, demanded a judicial investigation.

The attacks come more than a month after two other journalists identified as Tayson Latigue and Frantzsen Charles were fatally shot and their bodies set on fire while reporting in a slum controlled by gangs.

In January, gang members killed two other journalists who were reporting in Laboule, a community south of Port-au-Prince.

The Miami-based InterAmerican Press Association says this year has been one of the most violent for the press since recordkeeping began in 1987.

Journalists also are still seeking justice in the March 2018 disappearance of freelance photographer Vladjimir Legagneur, who was last seen in Port-auPrince’s Grand Ravine, one of its poorest and most dangerous areas.

FOREIGN TROOPS

The government’s decision to seek international security assistance has triggered anger and

protests, with Haitians shouting against “foreign occupation” and demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who had asked international partners for “the immediate deployment of a specialised armed force, in sufficient quantity” to stop the “criminal actions” of armed gangs across the country.

One of Haiti’s most powerful gangs surrounded a main fuel terminal more than a month ago, demanding Henry’s resignation as they prevented the distribution of petroleum.

Gas stations have shut down, banks and grocery stores are operating on limited hours and potable water is becoming scarce as the country battles a cholera breakout that has killed at least 40 people, with more than 1,750 suspected cases so far.

UNICEF warned on Monday that the actual number of cholera cases is likely much higher, given under-reporting. The agency noted that it has only been able to find a third of the 318,000 litres (70,000 gallons) of fuel needed to serve more than half of 16 cholera treatment centres in Port-auPrince.

On Tuesday, the European Union said it was extremely concerned about the deterioration of Haiti’s situation, adding that it has reached unsustainable levels.

Roberson Alphonse, who works at the daily newspaper Le Nouvelliste was shot in his car.

Applicant

HILLTOP

MANAGER

Applicant must have his/her IKO

1, First Aid, and a

on the

Applicant must be experienced in all

with a

procedures

to Kiteboarding and watersports in general.

Applicant will be in charge of running their own lessons, going over

procedures with each client, checking and maintaining gear and equipment standards, organizing schedule, receiving payments and setting up and packing down equipment for each day.

Applicant will be scheduled to work 40-44 hours per week. Must be willing to work 7 days a week if needed.

Remuneration for this position will be at 35% commission based on revenue from lessons taught or, a minimum of $40 per hour.

Belongers need only apply.

Marsha Blanche, Misick and Stanbrook Email: marsha@misickstanbrook.tc. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

candidates

October

2022 to:

Minimum

SPA THERAPIST:

Balinese,

Scrubs,

Tissue,

be able

and

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF:

Senior

Interested

literate

a second

of

of the

and

be an asset. A

position will require

SECURITY OFFICER

SECURITY OFFICER with 5 years+ experience. Duties: Maintains safe and secure environment for customers and employees by patrolling and monitoring premises and personnel. Knowledge

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATION: Security / Safety Training Certification from a recognized institution. Fluent in at least two languages: English, Spanish, French Creole, Tagalog. Must be available to work at any location in TCI between the hours of 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, Sunday – Saturday & Public Holidays. SALARY $6.25 - $11.50 per hour (based on qualification & experience).

•

DUTIES:

The Lead Cashier will: identify service cost via system portal, advise clients and execute efficient service; Make frequent presentations to Spanish groups to develop knowledge and awareness of the company's products and services. Monitor branch cashiers for service efficiency, provide coverage and training to cashiers. Handle complex and escalated customer service issues and track customers’ complaint resolution. Cross-sell company products and services; assist Sales Team in promoting products and services in Spanish. Interpret and translate Spanish for efficient service delivery written and verbal; record transactions for money transfer; prepare / maintain multiple end of day reports. Must be available to work rotated shift everyday including weekends and public holidays, between 7:00 am & 7:00 pm. Be willing and available to work at branches - all islands in TCI.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of 5 years experience in a financial institution; evidence of cash handling at the senior level; Minimum Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution; Training, experience and certification in Anti-Money Laundering –evidence required; Demonstrates ability to organize and manage a complex products, systems, service and procedures environment; Fluent in English and Spanish - written and verbal. Evidence of capability to use Microsoft Suite SALARY $16,800 - $36,000 per month (based on qualification & experience).

Rihanna to release lead single for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’

GET ready to marvel at a new Rihanna song.

The singer on Friday will release “Lift Me Up,” the lead single from the upcoming Marvel movie “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” that’s written as a tribute to late actor Chadwick Boseman, Disney announced Wednesday.

It’s the first solo single in six years from Rihanna, who co-wrote the song with “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler, composer Ludwig Göransson and Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems.

“After speaking with Ryan and

hearing his direction for the film and the song, I wanted to write something that portrays a warm embrace from all the people that I’ve lost in my life,” Tems said Wednesday.

“I tried to imagine what it would feel like if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them.

Rihanna has been an inspiration to me so hearing her convey this song is a great honour.”

Coming to theaters Nov. 11, “Wakanda Forever” serves as the much-anticipated sequel to

2018’s “Black Panther,” which starred Boseman as the heroic king T’Challa.

Boseman died in 2020 at age 43 following a private battle with colon cancer.

Rihanna becomes the latest big-name performer to release music for the “Black Panther” franchise. Kendrick Lamar curated the 2018 movie’s soundtrack, which features songs by SZA, The Weekend, Future, Khalid and 2 Chainz. (NYDailynews)

Henry Cavill confirms his return as Superman

HENRY Cavill has confirmed what passionate hero-loving moviegoers have been waiting for – the British actor will return to the role of Clark Kent, also known as Superman, in the DC Comics extended cinematic universe.

The exciting news comes after Cavill donned the iconic red and blue suit and cape in a midcredits cameo at the end of “Black Adam,” the new DC superhero film starring Dwayne Johnson that was released last week. (CNN and DC Films are both part of the same parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery.)

It was Cavill’s first appearance in the role since last year’s updated “Zack Snyder’s Justice League,” and before that, the 2017 version of that film, “Justice League.”

In a post on Instagram, Cavill shared a profile shot of himself as the timeless hero, before appearing in a selfie video directly addressing his followers.

He started off by saying he wanted to wait until after people had a chance to watch “Black Adam” before speaking about his return.

“But now that plenty of you have [seen the movie],” Cavill said, “I wanted to make it official: I’m back as Superman.”

He thanked the fans “most of all” for their patience.

“A very small taste of what’s to come, my friends. The dawn of hope renewed,” Cavill wrote in the caption. “Thank you for your patience, it will be rewarded.”

Cavill’s brief scene at the end of “Black Adam” – one of the most exciting moments in the film –promises a future standoff between the legendary Kryptonian and Johnson’s all-powerful Adam.

However, many are clamoring for another standalone film for Cavill’s Superman, which would mark the first since 2013’s “Man of Steel.” (CNN)

Henry Cavil in “Man of Steel” (2013)

Weinstein: Hollywood reflects on MeToo impact as new trial begins

OPENING arguments have begun in the latest sexual assault trial of the disgraced former Hollywood producer, Harvey Weinstein.

A much-diminished Weinstein, with reportedly declining health, is back in Los Angeles and incarcerated in a prison cell, on trial for rape and sexual assault.

This court case follows Weinstein being convicted in New York for other sex crimes, though that case is under appeal.

He denies ever having nonconsensual sex with anyone.

Deputy District Attorney Paul Thomson told the court on Monday that eight women allegedly attacked

by Weinstein would testify.

He quoted Weinstein’s accusers, saying one had recalled of the alleged assault: “Part of me was thinking I should just make a run for it, but he’s a big guy.”

Another alleged victim had said: “I was scared that if I didn’t play nice something could happen in the room or out of the room because of his power in the industry,” the prosecutor told the court.

Weinstein - who was wheeled into court wearing a black suit, blue tie and glasses - listened impassively to the prosecutor.

Mark Werskman, for the defence, told the court the accusers

were lying.

He said two accusers had fabricated their alleged encounters with the former producer, and that the other two Jane Does had “transactional sex” with him.

He suggested Jane Doe Four, an anonymous name for one of the accusers, was “just another bimbo who slept with Harvey Weinstein to get ahead in Hollywood”.

The Los Angeles trial is causing many in Hollywood to look back at the #MeToo movement and assess its success.

A recent study by the advocacy group WIF (Women in Film, Los Angeles) showed that while 83% of respondents felt that progress has been made since 2017, a staggering 69% said they had personally experienced abuse or misconduct at work since the movement began.

“It’s lost momentum,” WIF CEO Kirsten Schaffer said of the movement for equal rights and representation for women.

Seasoned film producers often ask their stars to shoot sex scenes on the first day of filming. That

way, an actor can’t change their mind about nudity halfway through a film when recasting would prove expensive.

That still happens in Hollywood, five years after stories of systemic sexual assault and harassment rocked Hollywood and ignited the #MeToo.

But now, it’s likely an intimacy co-ordinator will be on set making sure actors feel comfortable and safe as they simulate sex.

Schaffer continues: “I think there is forward motion. And that’s why it’s not super depressing,” she says, adding that five years ago the response to #MeToo was intense, with “so many people caring about

it, putting new policies in place, launching programmes”.

And many people in Hollywood say those policies are working.

Actresses say they’re offered more interesting roles, and there are more opportunities for female crew members, writers and directors.

Rosanna Arquette, one of Weinstein’s first public accusers, was part of the Screen Actors Guild committee which helped introduce intimacy co-ordinators on set, to make sure everyone is comfortable in any scene requiring nudity.

“A lot of people were against the intimacy co-ordinators, but you know, a lot of abuse did happen that way,” Ms Arquette told the BBC.

Scrubs producer and writer pleads not guilty to 18 counts of sexual assault

ERIC Weinberg, who was an executive producer and writer on hit US comedy series Scrubs, has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of sexual assault.

The 62-year-old was denied bail by a judge after appearing in court in Los Angeles on Tuesday.

He has been charged with 18 counts of sexual assault, all of which he denies.

Mr Weinberg is said to have “relied on his Hollywood credentials” to lure young women to photo shoots where he allegedly assaulted them.

The charges against him include six counts of sexual penetration by use of force and three counts of forcible rape.

They stem from alleged incidents involving five women between 2014 and 2019.

Set in a US hospital and starring Zach Braff, Donald Faison and

Sarah Chalke, Scrubs ran from 2001 to 2010, winning two primetime Emmy Awards.

Mr Weinberg’s other TV work includes the US series Californication and Anger Management.

According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, he approached two separate women at public locations in 2014 and told them he was a photographer. He is accused of sexually assaulting them back at his house later.

The defendant is alleged to have brought another woman back to his home in 2017 where he is accused of sexually assaulting her.

Mr Weinberg is also accused of sexually assaulting two women in separate incidents in 2018 and 2019.

He is due to appear in court again on 15 November. (BBC)

Weinstein was known for producing films such as Shakespeare in Love and Pulp Fiction.

Mr Weinberg is said to have “relied on his Hollywood credentials” to lure young women to photo shoots where he allegedly assaulted them

Corden: How Butterworth’s ‘bombshell’ drama lured him back to acting

WRITER Jez Butterworth is no stranger to black comedy. Bestknown for award-winning plays such as Mojo, Jerusalem and The Ferryman, his work has tackled heavy-duty themes such as toxic masculinity and national identity but always with a dollop of dark humour.

His latest work is Amazon Prime TV series Mammals, another edgy comic tale centred around the age-old yet endlessly fascinating themes of marriage, monogamy and infidelity.

It stars James Corden in his first major acting role since he announced his departure from The Late Late Show in the US, a highprofile gig which has seen slots such as Carpool Karaoke go viral and its YouTube channel draw in just under 10 billion views.

It was not without controversy, however, with the host facing

criticism on occasion for some of his sketches, including a slot called Spill Your Guts or Fill Your Gut, which was accused of mocking traditional Asian food. After complaints, he said he would not use the food items in question anymore.

Corden has now returned to the UK and his acting roots and tells me he just could not turn down Butterworth’s script: “I can remember so vividly where I was when I read it - Jez had written one episode - and I was just blown away by it. I don’t know if I’ve seen anything like it, but I had to be involved.”

Without giving too much away, Mammals follows the complicated relationships of two couples, restaurateur Jamie (Corden) and Amandine (Melia Kreiling), and veterinary academic Geoff (Colin Morgan) and creative Lou (Sally

Hawkins), who also happens to be Jamie’s sister.

While the themes may be familiar, the trajectory certainly isn’t.

Corden explains: “I can remember reading it and thinking four pages in ‘OK, I think I know what the show is.’ And then four pages later going ‘Oh, well no, it’s not that. It must be this’ and then 10 pages later going ‘OK, I’ve no idea what this is!’

“You get to the end of episode three and think ‘Oh my god, where’s this gonna go?’ and then Jez drops another bombshell because it goes somewhere you would never, ever predict that it would. I just think it’s a unique show.”

It’s certainly not a series you can watch while scrolling on your phone simultaneously. As you might expect from Butterworth, Mammals features intelligent

This is James Corden first major acting role since he announced his departure from The Late Late Show.

storytelling that keeps you on your toes, with so many plot twists, it can leave your head spinning.

The writer, who is already penning a second series, says: “I wanted it to have the simplicity of a cup and ball trick. You’ve got four cups, which one is it under?

And for that to be completely surprising every time it happens. Just the simplicity of a conjuring trick.”

It’s perhaps best described as a romantic whodunnit, leading the viewer down several garden paths before it reaches its suckerpunch

denouement. Revenge is clearly a dish best served cold.

“I think what’s really interesting about what Jez has written here, without trying to give anything away, is we can so often forgive or dismiss our own behaviours, or find reason,” Corden explains.

“And then, if those behaviours are suddenly presented back to you... I think we’ve all had conversations with friends, where you might put to them that perhaps their behaviour was part of this and they’re responsible. [And they’ll go]: ‘Yeah, but that was different.’”

KANYE West’s Yeezy collaboration with Adidas has been one of the most successful in the brand’s history.

But that’s now over, as the clothing giant has dropped the rapper - known as Ye - over antiSemitic comments.

Cutting the partnership means Adidas will make a net loss of £217m in 2022, with many other brands also ending their relationships with him.

For fans of the fashion and music, and the wider sneaker world, the big question is what comes next?

“I was a fan of him,” James Drury tells BBC Newsbeat. “He is a genius in the fashion industry and in the music industry.”

But the 28-year-old is no longer a fan and says he can’t stand by Ye after anti-Semitic comments.

“It does feel like he’s almost attention seeking to stay relevant,” he says. “And he’s just a little bit too far out there with me now.

“There’s certain things that you just can’t agree with.”

‘A SEPARATE BRAND’ James, from Shropshire, has been collecting Yeezys since 2016, when he first got into the range.

“It was more so the rarity,” he says. “Seeing images of various celebrities wearing them, it instantly pulls you in.”

But when it comes to being a Yeezy collector, he will continue despite Ye’s comments.

“I almost see Yeezy as a brand separately from Kanye West. Obviously, he controls much of it, but for some reason I see Yeezy as separate. So I will continue with it.”

Kanye West, now known as Ye, is best known for hits such as Gold Digger and Stronger

Your primary function will be the Executive Assistant to support the President and the General Secretary of the TCIFA. You will work closely with the President and General Secretary in assisting each with their daily tasks. This will include but not limited to the drafting of correspondence, managing business related matters, creating reports, organizing travel and accommodation, managing the President’s diary, and such other organizational tasks as required by the President and General Secretary. To do this role properly you should have a detailed understanding of the administrative side of Football, knowledge of the full Microsoft Office suite, be adept at solving problems and have experience as an executive or administration assistant in the past. Additionally you will be responsible for the recruiting and assignment of Match and Venue Commissioners, organizing and facilitating the training of Match and Venue, acting as a liaison for the Match and Venue Commissioners with CFU, Concacaf and FIFA.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as an executive assistant or other relevant administrative support experience

• In-depth understanding of entire MS Office suite.

• High school diploma at a Minimum

• Ability to organize a daily workload by priorities.

• Must be able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced quickly changing environment.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving with strong decision-making skills.

• Professional level verbal and written communications skills.

• English proficiency

• Outstanding organizational and time management skills

• Aware of the latest office gadgets and applications

• Acquainted with office management systems and procedures

• Discretion and confidentiality

• Uphold a strict level of confidentiality

• Reasonable availability outside of normal office

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Preparing reports, memos, invoices, letters, and other documents.

• Format information for internal and external communication – memos, emails, presentations, reports

• Being the point of contact between the President and the General Secretary and the TCIFA’s employees/clients and managing information flow between them

• Coordinate executive communications, including taking calls, responding to emails and interfacing with clients and stakeholders of the TCIFA

• Answer, screen and direct phone calls and distribute correspondence

• Taking messages.

• Devise and maintain office filing system

• Preparing, filing and retrieving records, documents, and reports.

• Researching and conducting data to prepare documents for review and presentation by the President and the General Secretary

• Helping prepare for meetings.

• Accurately recording minutes from meetings.

• Using various software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software.

• Manage the President’s and General Secretary’s diaries and arrange their daily schedule (set up meetings, travel, speaking engagements)

• Making travel arrangements for the President and General Secretary.

• Opening, sorting and distributing incoming faxes, emails, and other correspondence.

• Overseeing the performance of other clerical, administrative and technical staff

• Provide general administrative support

• Heading up the Referee’s Department by performing the duties as detailed above.

• Develop and sustain a level of professionalism among staff and clientele

FINANCE MANAGER

The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is seeking for a dependable, disciplined, self-driven and efficient Finance Manager. Applicant should possess the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in related field (Graduate Degree is a plus)

• Minimum of 5 years hospitality industry experience as an Assistant or Finance Manager. CPA/CA/ACCA preferred

• Must be able to perform advanced analytics

• Exceptional communication skills

• Proficiencies in the following software applications: Opera PMS and QuickBooks

• Maintains and monitors workflow including checklists and fulfilling daily operational needs

SUMMARY

To direct the Organization’s day-to-day financial planning and accounting practices. Under the leadership of the General Manager, the successful applicant will be responsible for the preparation and analysis of the financial reporting process for the Resort as well as the annual budget process. He/she will provide strong leadership to the accounting team and will develop, implement and monitor effective financial controls and procedures, providing management with advice and making recommendations to improve process and financial performance.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Managing all finance and accounting operations

• Preparing and publishing timely monthly financial statements

• Produce quarterly shareholder reports with assistance from the GM

• Manage all accounting operations including Billing, A/R, A/P, GL, Cost Accounting, Inventory Accounting and Revenue Recognition

• Coordinate and direct the preparation of the budget and financial forecasts and report variances

• Prepare and publish timely monthly financial statements

• Coordinate the preparation of regulatory reporting

• Support month-end and year-end close process

• Ensure quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting

• Duties not limited to but including as outlined above

The ideal candidate should be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently. Position requires a flexible schedule.

Salary: $65k-$75k per annum based on experience commensurate with experience and qualifications.

FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR

The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. Is looking to add a friendly Front Desk Supervisor to our team. As our Front Desk Supervisor, you will be responsible for the overall success of the Front Desk and ensuring guest satisfaction and product quality standards are met. You will plan and supervise the activities of a diverse workforce to ensure the smooth and profitable running of the businesses. Most importantly, you will be a key person of reference for team members, vendors and guests.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Carry out the smooth operation of the Front Office Department and ensure that all standards and operating procedures pertinent to Guest Services are followed

• Able to perform job responsibilities of Guest Service Agent and Concierge Agent and support in these areas when needed

• Anticipate and address guest issues and establish proactive processes to promote guest satisfaction

• Understand and enforce the hotel company credit policies, account for all cash and make deposits in accordance with hotel and company policies

• Be proactive in the greeting of guests in a warm and friendly manner

• Ensure associates adhere to performance and service standards and conduct appropriate accountability measures by providing direction, support and timely feedback

• Able to understand forecasting to ensure appropriate staffing levels are met according to business demands

• Assist in recruitment process with interviewing candidates

• Follow all company safety and security policies and procedures; report accidents, injuries and unsafe work conditions to management; complete safety training and certifications; and

• Any and all other work as required to complete the primary purpose of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent vocational training

• Minimum of 1 year experience in a Front Office/general office role (Preferred)

• Hospitality industry experience preferred

• The ideal candidate will also have knowledge of Opera software

Position requires a flexible schedule which includes holidays and weekends and. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Outgoing, positive personality is a necessary job component.

RESERVATIONS AGENT

The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is currently looking for a detailed and engaging Reservation Agent. The agent will be responsible for selling the hotel, providing information to prospective guests and coordinate details of each reservation to ensure the guest’s satisfaction. This individual responds to a wide variety of guest requests by accurately assessing the guest needs and then adding personal recommendations and touches to achieve maximum customer satisfaction while complying with The Somerset on Grace Bay policies.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for processing world-wide guest reservations

• Ensures accurate guest information and rates are inputted to PMS

• Maximize revenue by using proper up selling techniques

• Fully conversant with all hotel amenities and actively promote them

• Liaise with Department Head on all new rates, packages and promotions

• Effectively deal with customer complaints and take necessary steps to ensure problem resolution

• Communicate regularly with Front Desk, Housekeeping and Maintenance to ensure efficient and courteous service is provided

• Check daily reservation correspondence, ensuring all special requests and VIP guests are properly attended to

• Prepare reports as requested to aid in effective decision making

• Any and all other work as required to complete the primary purpose of the position

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent vocational training

• One to two years of Front Desk or Reservations experience at a luxury property

• Strong guest service experience

• Ability to prioritize and organize work assignments

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

FOR

PERIODICALS

AND

COURT

• Applicant must have 5 years experience tattooing, certifications for handling blood borne pathogens, sharps, health and safety practices in tattooing. Must be experienced with all standard health laws for tattooing and piercing.

• Applicant will be in charge of all tattooing, inventory and ordering materials, organizing schedule, receiving payments and opening/closing.

• Applicant will be scheduled to work 40-44 hours per week. Must be willing to work 7 days a week if needed. Remuneration for this position will be at 50% commission based on revenue from tattoos or, should the commission generated not amount to $1,600 in any month worked, $1,600 basic salary per month.

This position is currently held by a Work Permit holder. Belongers need only apply.

SPANISH TEACHER

You will be responsible for teaching Spanish to children throughout the primary

CLASS TEACHER

Your

PART-TIME CLEANER

ISLAND PRIDE FUEL

restroom, merchandise, floors and windows. Relief Pump Attendant

other

starting from $9.25 per hour

Deadline date: Submit applications to by December 16, 2022 to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department Town Center Mall, Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211

ROSIE’S DELIGHT RESTAURANT

Prepping meat & vegetables,

Labour Commissioner, Employment Services Samuel Been Building Airport Road, Providenciales

CONTACT: 649-341-8284

649-243-0166

•

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

a minimum

including, but not limited to, lumber & masonry products, windows, doors, hardware, appliances, cabinetry, electrical & plumbing materials, tiles, drywall, paint etc.

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

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

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

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• Salary $45,500 per annum, plus company Cell Phone. Annual Bonus Scheme Offered based upon Employee and Company Performance.

• Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com

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Science & Technology

India vaccine maker destroys 100 million doses of expired Covid jab

INDIAN vaccine maker Serum Institute of India (SII) has said it had to dump 100 million doses of their Covid-19 vaccine after they expired.

The firm stopped producing Covishield in December last year due to low demand, CEO Adar Poonawalla said on Thursday.

SII, the world’s largest vaccine maker, has been making the local version of AstraZeneca’s Vaxzevria jab.

Covishield accounts for over 90% of the doses given in India.

India has administered over two billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines. More than 70% of the Indian population has taken at least two doses, according to the federal health ministry.

In January 2022, India began giving boosters to healthcare and frontline workers, and those above 60 years with comorbidities. It was later expanded to all adults.

In July, free booster doses - or precaution doses as the government calls it - were provided to all adults for 75 days to mark 75 years of India’s independence.

But so far, India has administered just 298 million booster doses, according to the health ministry.

“The booster vaccines have no demand as people now seem fed up with Covid,” Mr Poonawala told reporters on Thursday. “Honestly, I’m also fed up. We all are.”

According to Mr Poonawala, the SII had around 100 million doses of Covishield in stock. The vaccines

- which have a shelf life of nine months - expired in September this year.

The CEO was speaking on the sidelines of the annual general meeting of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN) in the western Indian city of Pune.

“Going forward, when people take a flu shot every year, they may take a Covid vaccine along with it,” Mr Poonawala said. “But in India, there is no culture of taking a flu shot every year, like in the West.”

Meanwhile, Mr Poonawala said the SII had completed

trials for the Covid vaccine Covovax as a booster dose. The company expects the vaccine to get approval within the next two weeks.

It has also partnered with the US biotech company Novavax for an Omicron-specific booster, he said. (CNN)

Secret communication of sea animals discovered

A scientist has found that 53 sea creatures previously thought to be silent can actually communicate.

The creatures were sending message all along, but humans had never thought to listen to them, Gabriel Jorgewich-Cohen suggests.

He used microphones to record the species, including turtles, communicating they wanted to mate or hatch from the egg.

The findings claim to re-write some of what we know about evolution.

They suggest that all vertebrates that breathe through their noses and use sound to communicate descended from a single ancestor 400 million years ago.

It is a strong claim in evolutionary biology which debates whether living things descended from a single ancestor or from multiple origins.

Mr Jorgewich-Cohen, a PhD student at University of Zurich, Switzerland began his work with a hunch that marine animals might communicate with sound.

He used sound and video equipment to record 53 species in captivity around the world, including at Chester Zoo in England.

The creatures included 50 turtles, a tuatara, a lungfish and a caecilian.

It had been thought that all

these animals were mute but Mr Jorgewich-Cohen suggests they went unheard because their sounds were hard to detect.

“We know when a bird sings. You don’t need anyone to tell you what it is. But some of these animals are very quiet or make a sound every two days,” he told BBC News.

Mr Jorgewich-Cohen also suggested that humans have a bias towards creatures that live on land and so they ignored species underwater.

Video recorded of the animals when they made noise allowed him to connect sound with an associated behaviour - to distinguish from accidental sounds that don’t send a message.

“Sea turtles will sing from within their egg to synchronise hatching,” he explained.

“If they call from inside, they all come out together and hopefully avoid being eaten.”

Turtles also make noises to indicate they want to mate, he said, pointing to videos of turtle mating

sounds that are popular on social media.

Mr Jorgewich-Cohen also recorded tuataras making sounds to guard their territory.

He then began to consider what the discovery revealed about the evolution of noise-making animals.

Fossils often do not tell scientists enough about animals that lived millions of years ago so instead they compare the behaviour of living animals.

Using a technique called phylogenetic analysis, Mr

Jorgevich-Cohen traced back the relationship between noise-making animals.

The technique works by comparing behaviours of a species and mapping them like a family tree. If, for example, a human and chimpanzee share behaviour like making noise it suggests that the ancestor in common also produced sound.

He concluded that all acoustic communication in vertebrates descended from a single ancestor 400 million years ago, which was the Devonian period when most species lived under water.

That contrasts to recent work that traced communicative sound to several different species 200 million years ago.

Biologist Catherine Hobaiter, who was not part of the research, told BBC News that recordings of these 53 species was a welcome addition to what we know about acoustic communication.

“Comparing species like chimpanzees and humans only gets us back a few million years,” she said.

“We need to see common features across much more distant relatives to push our understanding back into hundreds of millions of years.”

The research is published in the scientific journal Nature Communications. (BBC)

Covishield accounts for over 90% of the doses given in India

If humans had listened to turtles earlier, we might have known they send messages.

Science & Technology

The hunt for habitable planets may have just gotten narrower, new study finds

THE hunt for planets that could harbor life may have just narrowed dramatically.

Scientists had long hoped and theorised that the most common type of star in our universe — called an M dwarf — could host nearby planets with atmospheres, potentially rich with carbon and perfect for the creation of life. But in a new study of a world orbiting an M dwarf 66 light-years from Earth, researchers found no indication such a planet could hold onto an atmosphere at all.

Without a carbon-rich atmosphere, it’s unlikely a planet would be hospitable to living things. Carbon molecules are, after all, considered the building blocks of life. And the findings don’t bode well for other types of planets orbiting M dwarfs, said study coauthor Michelle Hill, a planetary scientist and a doctoral candidate at the University of California, Riverside.

“The pressure from the star’s radiation is immense, enough to blow a planet’s atmosphere away,” Hill said in a post on the university’s website.

M dwarf stars are known to be volatile, sputtering out solar flares and raining radiation on nearby celestial bodies.

But for years, the hope had been that fairly large planets orbiting near M dwarfs could be in a Goldilocks environment, close enough to their small star to keep warm and large enough to cling onto its atmosphere.

The nearby M dwarf, however, could be too intense to keep the atmosphere intact, according to the new study, which was published in

The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

A similar phenomenon happens in our solar system: Earth’s atmosphere also deteriorates because of outbursts from its nearby star, the sun. The difference is that Earth has enough volcanic activity and other gas-emitting activity to replace the atmospheric loss and make it barely detectable, according to the research.

However, the M dwarf planet examined in the study, GJ 1252b, “could have 700 times more carbon than Earth has, and it still wouldn’t have an atmosphere. It would build up initially, but then taper off and erode away,” said study coauthor and UC Riverside astrophysicist

Stephen Kane, in a news release.

WHERE IS STARTED AND HOW IT’S GOING GJ 1252b orbits less than a million miles from its home star, called GJ_1252. The planet reaches sweltering daytime temperatures of up to 2,242 degrees Fahrenheit (1,228 degrees Celsius), the study found.

The existence of the planet was first suggested by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, or TESS, mission. Then, astronomers ordered the nearly 17-year-old Spitzer Space Telescope to set its sights on the area in January 2020 — less

than 10 days before Spitzer was deactivated forever.

The investigation into whether GJ 1252b had an atmosphere was led by astronomer Ian Crossfield at the University of Kansas and involved a collection of researchers from UC Riverside, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Caltech, the University of Maryland, Carnegie Institution for Science, the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, McGill University, the University of New Mexico, and the University of Montreal.

They pored over the data produced by Spitzer, searching for emission signatures, or signs that a gaseous bubble could encase

the planet. The telescope captured the planet as it passed behind its home star, allowing researchers to “look at the starlight as it’s passing through the atmosphere of the planet,” giving a “spectral signature of the atmosphere” — or lack thereof, Hill said.

Hill added that she wasn’t shocked to find no signs of an atmosphere, but she was disappointed. She’s looking for moons and planets in “habitable zones,” and the results made looking at worlds circling the ubiquitous M dwarf stars slightly less interesting.

Researchers hope to get even more clarity about these types of planets with the help of the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful space telescope to date.

Webb will soon set its sights on the TRAPPIST-1 system, “which is also an M dwarf star with a bunch of rocky planets around it,” Hill noted.

“There’s a lot of hope that it will be able to tell us whether those planets have an atmosphere around them or not,” she added.

“I guess the M dwarf enthusiasts are probably holding their breath right now to see whether we can tell whether there’s an atmosphere around those planets.”

There are, however, still plenty of interesting places to hunt for habitable worlds. Apart from looking to planets farther away from M dwarfs that could be more likely to retain an atmosphere, there are still roughly 1,000 sunlike stars relatively near Earth that could have their own planets circling within habitable zones, according to the UC Riverside post about the study. (CNN)

SCIENTISTS have discovered more about the mysterious role of epigenetics, the study of how genes change, in controlling the way cancers develop.

Often called “dark matter”, it could alter the way cancer is detected and treated, research from The Institute of Cancer Research suggests.

And it could lead to new forms of tests for the disease which would help tailor treatments.

But this is a long way off, with research still at an early stage.

When most people think of genetics, they think of structural changes to the DNA code that are passed down the generations.

As a result, there has been huge focus on how these gene mutations drive the growth of cancers.

But, in recent years, scientists have discovered another phenomenon which is not quite so straightforward, called epigenetics.

Epigenetics is the study of how

This illustration shows one possible scenario for the hot, rocky exoplanet called 55 Cancrie, which is nearly two times as wide as Earth. Data from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope showed that the planet has extreme temperature swings

Science & Technology

Ten % of Americans over 65 have dementia, study finds

ONE in 10 Americans over 65 had dementia, while 22% experienced mild cognitive impairment, the earliest stage of the slow slide into senility, according to a new study conducted between 2016 and 2017.

The research, which the authors said is the first nationally representative examination of cognitive impairment prevalence in more than 20 years, was able to measure prevalence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment by age, education, ethnicity, gender and race.

The results showed older adults who self-identified as Black or African American were more likely to have dementia, while those who identify as Hispanic were more likely to suffer from mild cognitive impairment. People who had less than a high school education were more likely to have both conditions.

“Dementia research in general has largely focused on collegeeducated people who are racialized as white,” lead study author Jennifer Manly said in a statement.

“This study is representative of the population of older adults and includes groups that have been historically excluded from dementia research but are at higher risk of developing cognitive impairment because of structural racism and income inequality,” said Manly, professor of neuropsychology at the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center and the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain at Columbia University.

“If we’re interested in increasing brain health equity in later life, we need to know where we stand now and where to direct our resources,” Manly said.

‘Dark matter’ find could ...

an individual’s behaviour and environment can cause changes that affect the way their genes work.

Your epigenetics change as you age, and in response to where you live and how you live.

Epigenetics does not alter the DNA code, but it can control access to genes, and is increasingly seen an playing an important role in the development of cancer.

Prof Trevor Graham, director of the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at The Institute of Cancer Research in London, said: “We’ve unveiled an extra level of control for how cancers behave - something we liken to cancer’s ‘dark matter’.”

He told the BBC that there can be “tangles in lines of DNA” as they fold up in each cell and this can change which genes are read.

The position of the tangles

can be very important in determining how cancers behave, he added.

“It’s not going to change clinical care tomorrow but could be an avenue for developing new therapies,” Prof Graham said.

Genetic testing for cancer mutations, such as BRCA which increases the risk of breast cancer, for example, only offers part of the picture about someone’s cancer.

“By testing for both genetic and epigenetic changes, we could, potentially, much more accurately predict which treatments will work best for a particular person’s cancer,” Prof Graham said.

The findings are published in two papers in Nature - the first analysed more than 1,300 samples from 30 bowel cancers, showing that epigenetic changes were very common in cancerous cells and helped them grow more than other cells.

The results showed older adults who self-identified as Black or African American were more likely to have dementia.

IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

The study, published Monday in the journal JAMA Neurology, analyzed data from in-depth neuropsychological tests and interviews with nearly 3,500 people over age 65 enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study, a long-term research project sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and the Social Security Administration.

The research was based on a randomly selected sample of people from the study that completed the core survey and underwent neurological testing between June 2016 and October 2017.

Fifteen percent of people who identified as Black tested positive for dementia, while 22% had mild cognitive decline, the study found. Ten percent of people who identified as Hispanic had dementia, but the rate of milder issues was higher — 28% tested positive for mild cognitive impairment. Nine percent of White people had dementia, while 21% had mild cognitive impairment.

Educational achievement, which experts consider to be protective against cognitive decline, showed a significant divide: Nine percent of people with a college degree tested positive for dementia, compared with 13% of those who never received a high school diploma. Twenty-one percent of people over 65 with college degrees had mild cognitive decline, compared with 30% of those with less than a high school degree.

The extreme elderly had the highest rates of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Only 3% of adults between 65 and 69 tested positive for dementia, compared with 35% of those 90 and older.

In fact, every five-year increase

in age was associated with higher risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment, the report said. The study, however, found no differences between men and women in rates of either condition

MILD COGNITION SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of mild cognitive impairment can include losing items, forgetting to do things or go to appointments, or struggling to come up with words. A loss of smell and taste and movement issues can also be symptoms, according to the National Institute on Aging.

People with mild cognitive impairment are fully capable of taking care of themselves, “but what they have to go through to do so is exhausting,” Laura Baker, a professor of gerontology and geriatric medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, told CNN in an earlier interview. She was not involved in the current study.

People with mild cognitive impairment may not remember where they are supposed to be, Baker said. ” ‘Let me check my calendar. Oh, I forgot to write on this calendar. Let’s check another calendar. Oh, I can’t find that calendar. I’ve lost my phone. Where is the key? I can’t find the key.’ They’re able to regroup in the early stages and accomplish things, but the toll is immense.”

Not everyone with mild cognitive impairment goes on to develop dementia, although many do, experts say. Lifestyle changes may be a key to reversing mental decline. A 2019 study found personalized lifestyle interventions

-— such as diet, exercise, stress reduction and sleep hygiene — not only stopped cognitive decline in people at risk for Alzheimer’s, but actually increased their memory and thinking skills over 18 months. Women responded better than men, a follow-up study found.

A February study found about a third of women 75 years or older with mild cognitive impairment reversed their progression to dementia at some point during follow-up. All of the women, however, had high levels of education and academic performance and excellent written language skills, or what experts call “cognitive reserve.”

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

Signs of dementia can differ from one person to the next, and can include memory loss and confusion, difficulty speaking, understanding and expressing thoughts, or reading and writing, according to the National Institutes of Health.

People with dementia can act impulsively or show poor judgment, and they can have trouble paying bills or handling money responsibly. They may repeat questions, use strange words to refer to familiar objects and take longer than usual to complete daily tasks.

Wandering and getting lost in a familiar neighbourhood is another sign of dementia, as is losing interest in daily activities or events or acting as if they don’t care about other people’s feelings. They may lose their balance or have other problems with movement. At times, people with dementia can hallucinate or experience delusions or paranoia. (CNN)

Klopp: Liverpool boss fined £30,000 by FA for red card against Manchester City

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been fined £30,000 by the Football Association following his sending off during his side’s 1-0 win against Manchester City on 16 October.

Klopp was dismissed after berating a referee’s assistant when a foul was not given for a challenge on Mohamed Salah.

The German apologised for his reaction in his post-match comments.

“Something snapped in that situation, I’m not proud of that. I

deserved a red card,” he admitted.

Klopp had been charged with a breach of FA rule E3, which covers “comments which are improper, which bring the game into disrepute, which are threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting”.

The FA said he accepted that his behaviour “was improper”, and “an independent Regulatory Commission imposed his sanction during a hearing”.

Liverpool can appeal against the sanction. (BBC)

India’s men and women to be paid equal match fees for international cricket

Players in India’s men’s and women’s international sides will receive equal match fees, the country’s Board of Control for Cricket has said.

Jay Shah, honorary secretary for the BCCI, said contracted cricketers would receive the same pay in a “new era of gender equality” in cricket.

The move follows a five-year deal agreed by New Zealand Cricket in July.

While match fees will be standardised, the amount paid as

retainers or central contracts will still vary.

Responding to Shah’s social media post, Cheteshwar Pujara, a batter in the men’s Test side, called the decision “a great step from the BCCI”, adding that it was “setting an example for the world to follow”.

Shah said the deal would see men and women earn around £15,717 (15 lakhs) for Tests, £6,287 (6 lakhs) for one-day international games and £3,143 (3 lakhs) for T20 fixtures. (BBC)

Raducanu’s former coach Tursunov says he left because of ‘red flags’

DMITRY Tursunov says he decided to stop coaching Emma Raducanu at the end of his trial period with the tennis star because of “red flags” that he could not ignore.

The Russian had been working with the 19-year-old after she split with full-time coach Torben Beltz in April but has since said the pair could not agree on terms.

Tursunov is now working with Olympic champion Belinda Bencic but says that was not the reason he left Raducanu.

“I was walking away from Emma regardless of whether there was another [player] available or not,” he told tennismajors. com, in an interview published on Wednesday.

“We didn’t agree on the terms and there were some red flags that just couldn’t be ignored. So that’s why it’s a little frustrating to read things like that.

“I wasn’t hopping from one

player to another, I wouldn’t do that.”

Raducanu burst onto the scene in 2021, reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon before winning the US Open.

The then 18-year-old became the first qualifier in either men’s or women’s tennis to reach a grand slam final, let alone win one.

‘SHE IS HUNGRY TO IMPROVE’

Injuries, poor form and changes to her coaching staff have contributed to disappointing results ever since and the teenager is now ranked 76th in the world.

Earlier this month, she pulled out of the Transylvania Open due to a wrist injury.

Despite her struggling to settle into the WTA Tour, Tursunov was full of praise for his former player.

“First of all, she’s absolutely great, she’s a hard worker and she

doesn’t think or act like she’s a superstar,” he added.

“She is hungry to improve and is obsessed with tennis. I think it’s quite a rare combination. So I really loved working with her, and I really wanted to make it work. It was a very difficult decision for me to walk away from a player that I like and respect.

“In my opinion, she’s minimum a one-year project, but I would say that she’s probably a two-and-ahalf-year project to be on the safe side.

“Of course, it’s hard to say that and it’s hard for people to understand how it is possible because she already won the US Open. But, in my opinion, her game is very raw, and I think in many ways it could use a lot of improvement.”

CNN has reached out to Raducanu’s team for comment but has not received a reply. (CNN)

Klopp said he deserved his red card for the way he confronted the assistant referee.

Emma Raducanu has struggled with former since winning the US Open in 2021.

India won their seventh Asia Cup title by beating Sri Lanka in Sylhet in October.

Barcelona suffer humiliating exit from the Champions League at the hands of Inter Milan and Bayern

BARCELONA talked a lot about “economic levers” as the Catalan club looks to improve its finances, but it won’t be able to use the Champions League pulley anymore after exiting at the competition’s group stage for the second consecutive season.

Even before a ball was kicked at the Camp Nou against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, Barca was facing the reality that it would have to play in the Europa League rather than European football’s premier competition in 2023.

Following Barca’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Inter Milan two weeks ago, the Catalan team needed FC Viktoria Plzen to do it a favor and get a result against the Italian team. But the Nerazzurri won 4-0 in the early kickoff, sealing Barca’s fate.

Rubbing salt into the wound, Barca was then thumped 3-0 by Bayern, who have now beaten the La Liga side in their previous six meetings.

In that run of losses Barca has conceded 22 goals to Bayern and has only scored four – none in their last four matches.

“We were not at Bayern’s level today,” Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez told reporters. “They were better. In Munich we were ourselves, but today they were better, intense. The elimination before the game affected us psychologically.”

Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen added: “Obviously knowing we were already out had an influence. It was a strange feeling. It was more a pride issue,

but we could not match Bayern tonight. They scored goals at key moments and we could not compete.”

It did not take long for the visitors to stamp their authority on the game. Just nine minutes in Sadio Mane scored, clipping the ball over the onrushing Ter Stegen. Barca kept the ball for much of the game, but offered little attacking threat. Meanwhile Bayern looked dangerous every

time it went forward, with Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting doubling the visitors’ lead just after the halfhour mark in another devastating counterattack.

The home fans looked to have been given some respite when Robert Lewandowski – facing his former club for the second time since moving to Spain –won a penalty, but he was denied the chance to score when VAR overturned the decision.

Bayern added a third with effectively the last touch of the game, Benjamin Pavard taking advantage of some dreadful defending to tap-in at the far post following Serge Gnabry’s mishit shot.

Having qualified for the Champions League knockout stages in 17 consecutive seasons, Barca has now failed to make it out of the group stage for two seasons in a row. (CNN)

Mickelson says Saudi-backed LIV Golf series is ‘not going away’

VETERAN golfer Phil Mickelson says the controversial LIV Golf series is a “force” in the sport and it’s “not going away.”

Speaking ahead of the season finale at the Trump National Doral Golf Club, near Miami, Mickelson praised the Saudi-backed series for how much it has grown during a tumultuous debut year.

“If I’m just looking at LIV Golf and where we are today to where we were six months ago and people are saying this is dead in the water,” he told reporters.

“We’re past that, and here we are today, a force in the game that’s not going away.

“It’s pretty remarkable how far LIV Golf has come in the last six, seven months. I don’t think anybody can disagree with that.”

Earlier this month, American Dustin Johnson secured the inaugural season-long LIV Golf individual championship, earning himself $18 million.

This weekend LIV Golf will hold a team competition with a $50 million prize purse.

Despite the eye-watering prize purses on offer, the breakaway series has continued to cause huge divisions in the game of golf.

In August, the LIV series joined

an antitrust lawsuit from some of its stars that alleges the PGA Tour threatened to place lifetime bans on players who participate on the LIV golf series, adding that “unprecedented suspensions” were placed upon them.

The PGA Tour filed a countersuit in late September,

claiming “tortious interference with the Tour’s contracts with its members.”

The LIV suit also alleges the PGA Tour has threatened sponsors, vendors and agents to coerce players to abandon opportunities to play in the Saudi-backed series’ events and access to their members.

Mickelson, who joined the series earlier this year, has previously said he’s happy to be on the “winning team.”

Next year’s season is set to grow from eight to 14 events and former US President Donald Trump’s golf clubs will continue to play a major role.

CONTROVERSIAL BACKING

The LIV Golf series is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) – a sovereign wealth fund chaired by Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia and the man who a US intelligence report named as responsible for approving the operation that led to the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Bin Salman has denied involvement in Khashoggi’s murder but critics have called the series a “sportswashing” tool for the regime.

Mickleson, though, says he’s focused on golf and is excited to play in the season-finale which is set to start Friday.

The event will consist of 12 four-man teams all competing for a first-prize worth $16 million.

“This is a unique thing happening in professional golf, and it’s pretty exciting, and to be on a historic course that held a (PGA) Tour event for longer than I think just about any other event or was in the top 3 or 4.

“It’s pretty special to have this monumental event take place on this site, too.” (CNN)

Phil Mickelson joined the breakaway series earlier this year

Former Bayern Munich star Robert Lewandowski endured a painful evening against his old club as Barcelona exited the Champions League.

Kamila Valieva: Wada warns Rusada of court action over doping case delay

THE World Anti-Doping Agency has expressed concern over the delayed doping investigation into Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva.

Russia’s anti-doping agency (Rusada) said last week it would not make the results of its investigation public.

Wada president Witold Banka said it would take the matter to court if it was not resolved “promptly”.

Valieva, then 15, was allowed to compete at the Winter Olympics in February despite a failed drugs test.

Banka said: “Wada is concerned with the ongoing delay in Kamila Valieva’s case and has now put Rusada under formal notice that

unless the matter is resolved promptly it will use its right to take it directly to the Court of

Arbitration for Sport (Cas).”

Rusada did not name Valieva, now 16, but said in a statement last week that it would not reveal the results of its investigation “in order to protect the interests of the figure skater”, adding that it “does not intend to announce the date of the hearings, the decision or other details in the case”.

Travis Tygart, chief executive of the US Anti-Doping Agency (Usada), said Rusada’s decision to keep the results of its investigation secret “makes a mockery of the whole process”.

“If she is rightfully exonerated, then there is nothing to hide and it should be made public,” Tygart said. “There is no wonder athletes and the public do not trust the global Wada anti-doping system.

“Wada, ISU (International Skating Union) and the IOC (International Olympic Committee) should immediately announce an appeal against any such decision and hold an open process, as the rules provide, so that there is confidence in the final outcome.

“Short of this, it’s impossible for athletes or the public to believe what happened at the 2022 Beijing Games was real and not just another fraudulent win by the Russians like so many before, as the evidence has clearly shown.”

WHAT WAS THE VALIEVA CASE?

Valieva was one of the biggest stories to taint the Beijing Games. The teenager was initially lauded for becoming the first woman to land a quadruple jump at a Winter Olympics, which she achieved in the team event.

But a failed drugs test in December 2021 - when Valieva

tested positive for banned heart medication trimetazidine - came to light just before the team event medal ceremony was set to take place.

She was allowed to compete in the singles after a court ruling lifted her provisional ban following a series of appeals and re-appeals.

Cas pointed to “exceptional circumstances” regarding her age and the timing of the test result, which came during the Games and nearly six weeks after the sample was taken.

It said it would do Valieva “irreparable harm” if she were not allowed to compete.

But Valieva left the arena in tears after a number of stumbles and falls saw her drop from first place after the short programme to fourth following the free skate.

Her treatment by coaches was also questioned, with IOC president Thomas Bach describing the lack of comfort offered after her errors as “chilling”.

With the doping case still to be resolved, the medals have yet to be awarded for the team event. The USA finished second, Japan third and Canada fourth.

Dutch cyclist Pieters takes first steps since suffering brain damage in training crash

DUTCH cyclist Amy Pieters has taken her first steps since suffering severe brain damage in a training crash in Alicante in December.

The 31-year-old, a three-time Madison world champion, only regained consciousness in April after being put in an induced coma following surgery.

She is recovering in a Netherlands intensive neurorehabilitation centre.

A statement on her website said Pieters could “walk for short moments when supported” but could not yet talk.

“Lately, it’s been a little more difficult to motivate Amy with physical exercises,” the statement read.

“Talking is not yet possible, which makes it difficult to explain herself. Not being able to explain or express herself is sometimes a bit difficult for her and also for us.

“Fortunately, she can be motivated by playing a game. We

take it for granted that she chooses her own moment. And that moment comes because suddenly she is standing!

“With a little help, she gets up from her chair and takes her own steps. She walks for short moments when supported. This is what we like to see.

“Amy sets the pace. There are days when she doesn’t want to show this again, and then there comes another day when she wants to stand, starts walking, and immediately makes a serious effort.”

Pieters has also been able to cycle along on a side-by-side tandem bike.

In 2021, she became the Madison world champion on the track, alongside Kirsten Wild, for the third consecutive year and won stage two of the Women’s Tour on the road. She also won the Dutch national road race and Nokere Koerse earlier in the year. (BBC)

Audi

AUDI has chosen Sauber as the team with which it will enter Formula 1 from the 2026 season.

In a long-expected deal, the German car giant is set to buy a stake in the Swiss team, making it Audi’s factory entrant.

Audi is designing an engine for its entry, which coincides with the introduction of F1’s new powerunit regulations for 2026.

Sauber will race in 2024 and 2025 with its current engine

supplier, Ferrari.

Alfa Romeo is ending its branding of the team after 2023.

Finn Rausing, chairman of Sauber’s board of directors, said: “Audi is the best strategic partner for the Sauber Group.

“It is clear that we share values and a vision, and we look forward to achieving our common goals in a strong and successful partnership.”

Oliver Hoffmann, the Audi board member responsible for its F1

programme, said: “We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project.

“We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.”

Audi is a part of the Volkswagen Group, which had planned to enter F1 in 2026 with Porsche as well.

Amy Pieters won stage two of the Women’s Tour in 2021.

Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva

In August, Audi announced it was to make its Formula 1 debut in 2026.

Police end Beaches run with an entertaining four-wicket win

Beaches’ unbeaten run in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA) T-20 Cricket Competition came to an end on Sunday at the hands of Police at the Downtown Ball Park.

Both teams excelled but the Lawmen wanted the win more.

Police won the toss and opted to field first. Beaches were not fazed and led by five solid starts were able to push their total to a very competitive 192-5 from their 20

overs.

Anthony McKnight opened the attack with 34 runs, 32 of which were scored by boundary shots.

Kenneth Lewis also supported with 24 (2X4s, 1X6) at the start, before Mario Smith and Sidue Hunter added 44 for the fourth wicket with Smith hitting 29 (1X4, 3X6s) and Hunter 32 (7X4s).

Towards the end, Jerome Daley ran the singles well to go with three fours and an equal amount of sixes

LA Lakers still winless in NBA

THE LA Lakers lost at the Denver Nuggets to slip to a fourth defeat in four games at the start of the NBA season.

Nikoka Jokic scored 31 points for the Nuggets in a 110-99 win over the 17-time champions at the Ball Arena.

LeBron James finished with 19 points and Anthony Davis 22 but the Lakers remain bottom of the Western Conference.

They are one of only three teams still without a win.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 43 points to help the Milwaukee

Bucks maintain their 100% start to the season with a thrilling 11099 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, who had head coach Steve Nash sent off in the third quarter.

The Nets led by 12 points at half-time in Milwaukee, but Antetokounmpo scored 17 points in the third quarter before the Bucks pulled away in the fourth for a third straight win.

Nash was hauled away from officials by his own players after reacting angrily when they failed to give a foul against Antetokounmpo on Patty Mills.

for a top score of 37.

The Lawmen were led by Chabbie Charlery, who was able to pick up three wickets, including the prize wicket of the in-form McKnight, who he had caught on the long-off boundary.

Needing to score at a whopping 9.65 runs per over, the Police batsmen paced their innings well.

They had a dream start with Kavin Mars and the explosive Garvin Bruno leading the charge.

The opening pair propelled the side to 76 before McKnight took backto-back wickets in his opening over to stem the run flow.

He had Bruno caught for 44 (4X4s, 4X6s), before Damian St Ange was bowled first ball.

Kareem Jack with his levelheaded batting and the left-handed Mars added a match-high 81 runs for the third wicket. Mars finished with 51 (8X4s, 1X6), while Jack ran the wicket well to finish with

37 (5X4s).

Towards the end, Charlie also had a flurry with 15 quick runs (2X4s, 1X6) which ensured that a victory came with 10 balls remaining.

McKnight finished with 2-32 from four overs, while opening bowler Sanjay Pawan, who got the wicket of Mars, finished with 2-46 from three overs.

Prior to the clash, Beaches had recorded four consecutive wins.

Kavin Mars paced the Lawmen’s innings with a man-of-the-match performance

The Police cricket team chased down 193 for victory.

Lebron James finished with 19 points.

Historic Women’s beach soccer win will boost team confidence – Ritchie

THE Turks and Caicos Senior Women’s Beach Soccer team’s inaugural international win will give them the needed confidence to move forward in the sport, opined the Technical Director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) Dane Ritchie.

“The win was a tremendous boost to the confidence of the team and by extension the TCIFA.”

The players, who travelled for the Women’s Bahamas Beach Soccer Cup, were able to rebound from a first-game defeat of 0-8 by Trinidad and Tobago to beat the home team 3-2.

In the clash, Kadine Delphine, Kayley Hall and Jodee Harvey all found the back of the net for the TCI.

Trinidad and Tobago and the Bahamas advanced to the

championship clash with the visiting side winning the title 11-6.

According to Ritchie, TCI’s win has many positive implications.

“Winning games at the international level does a lot for players’ morale and this win will no doubt give the girls that confidence to want to compete in future games/tournaments of this nature.”

SKYHAWKS AND BADGERS WIN PAL BASKETBALL TITLES

SKYHAWKS surprised Avengers in the 12U final and Badgers overpowered the older Avengers team in the 16U championship clash to bring the curtains down on an exciting and entertaining Police Action League (PAL) basketball tournament on Saturday last at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex.

In the pre-teen clash, Skyhawks were the underdogs against the previously undefeated Avengers. It however took just

a single point to determine the winners (26-25).

In the third-place game, Seaquest got past the Guardians 27-23.

In the older age final, the Badgers were able to power their way to a 76-63 point victory.

The game proved an intense battle with both teams digging deep.

Earlier, the Guardians had defeated Seaquest 55-53 in the third-place battle.

TCI Women’s side defeated the Bahamas 3-2

The Badgers won the U16 title

Skyhawks edged out favourites Avengers to win the U12 title