TC Weekly News October 5 - 11, 2024

Former Deputy Premier, Floyd Hall

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Clayton Greene

TCI passes landmark legislation to combat organised crime

– Reduced jail time for cooperating criminals

In a decisive move to dismantle organised crime and enhance public safety, the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) has passed the ground-breaking Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2024.

This landmark legislation, presented by Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, introduces a powerful new tool for law enforcement: the ability to offer immunity or reduced sentences to individuals who cooperate with authorities and provide crucial information on criminal activities.

“The collaboration of individuals involved in criminal organisations and other participants can significantly enhance the investigation of organized crime,” stated Braithwaite-Knowles during her impassioned presentation to the House.

She underscored the critical role that insiders often play in unravelling complex criminal networks, stating, “These individuals, while involved in criminal acts, are often more motivated to cooperate when

the possibility of immunity or a reduced sentence is on the table.”

The bill, which aligns with international legal frameworks such as Article 26 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, empowers the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to offer these incentives in cases involving indictable offenses.

“The DPP would be empowered...to offer any person immunity from prosecution or an undertaking that information will not be used against that person in any proceedings or a reduction in sentence,” Braithwaite-Knowles explained, highlighting the flexibility the bill affords law enforcement in their pursuit of justice.

The passage of this bill marks a turning point in the fight against organized crime in the TCI, a battle that has been hampered by

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the reluctance of witnesses and insiders to come forward.

By providing a legal framework that protects and incentivizes cooperation, the government aims to dismantle criminal networks from within, leveraging the knowledge of those who have been directly involved in illicit activities.

“This is about more than just prosecuting criminals. It’s about making the Turks and Caicos Islands a safer place for everyone,” Braithwaite-Knowles declared, emphasizing the broader implications of the bill for public safety and security. The legislation has garnered widespread support from both sides of the House, with many legislators highlighting its potential to curb the growing influence of organized crime on the islands.

HARD BLOW TO CRIMINALS

Willin Belliard, the Governor’s Appointed Member and a criminal defence attorney voiced his strong support for the bill, stating, “So, by enacting this legislation, we are delivering a very hard blow to the criminal enterprises and criminal activity.”

He acknowledged the challenges law enforcement faces in obtaining cooperation from the community and emphasised how the bill addresses this issue by offering tangible benefits to those who come forward with information.

“And that is something that law enforcement are suffering from, the lack of information, the lack of the people coming to the police, the community, when they see something and say something,”

Belliard pointed out.

He believes that the bill’s provisions for immunity and reduced sentences will serve as powerful motivators, encouraging individuals to turn in their associates and provide vital intelligence to the police.

The Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2024 represents a bold and innovative approach to tackling organised crime. It sends a clear message that the government is committed to fighting crime at every level and is willing to use all available tools to protect its citizens.

As the TCI grapples with the increasing involvement of international crime syndicates, this legislation comes at a critical time, offering a glimmer of hope in the pursuit of a safer and more secure future for all.

Rose Gardiner-Higgs withdraws as PDM Constituency Candidate

People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) Candidate Rose GardinerHiggs has withdrawn her candidacy for Kew Town and Cheshire Hall (ED 7).

In a statement shared by the Party Chairman, Ezra Taylor, GardinerHiggs said her withdrawal was due to personal health reasons, and that upon careful consideration she deemed it the best move.

Taylor thanked Higgs for the work she has done and her continued commitment to the people of her community and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Taylor said the PDM will at the proper time announce a new candidate for Electoral District 7 as internal deliberations for a new selection are underway.

“The PDM remains committed to the change that Turks and

Caicos Islanders are calling for and prioritising the issues that matter to our nation most, such as reducing crime and violence; securing our borders and reducing illegal immigration; improving access to quality healthcare, positively transforming our education system and creating opportunity and meaningful employment for all

Turks and Caicos Islanders,” the Chairman noted.

He said the PDM is ready to lead and ready to govern in the interests of the people on day one.

In May, when the party announced its constituency candidates, Higgs had promised to return humility to service of the people, espousing her desire to “change politics and how some politicians behave after we elect them to politics”.

She had stated that for too long the nation’s parliament has left the compassion, empathy and connection that communities deserve, pointing out that her venture into politics was not driven by personal ambition but by a deep commitment to being the voice for the voiceless, the advocate for the marginalised and the champion for the forgotten. (DELANA ISLES)

Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles

Willin Belliard, the Governor’s Appointed Member

Former PDM Candidate Rose Gardiner-Higgs

Appeals for Hall and Greene set for next week

BY DELANA ISLES

Almost one year to the date of their sentencing, the Court of Appeal will on October 8, hear the appeals of Floyd Hall and Clayton Greene, both of whom were convicted on separate corruption charges on September 25, 2023.

Both Hall and Greene were found guilty of Bribery and Money Laundering, correspondingly, and sentenced to 12 months and six months in prison, in that order on October 12, 2023.

In delivering her sentencing, Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang had also ordered that both men pay a sum of money outlined in a confiscation order.

Those confiscation orders require the men to pay the government monies that represent the financial benefit they received from committing their crimes.

In October last year, former Director of Public Prosecutions, King’s Counsel Eugene Otuonye had outlined the process by which both men will have to repay the money, and why their sentences were so drastically reduced.

He had explained that the sentence was substantially reduced because of the delays that the proceedings have suffered. Those delays over the five-year-long trial were well publicised.

The court imposed a confiscation order in the sum of $943,295 against Hall to reflect his benefit from the crime of bribery.

Otuonye explained that Hall is to pay that sum within 21 days of the conclusion of any appeal that he may bring and provided the confiscation order survives an appeal.

“Mr Hall will serve six years’ imprisonment, if he fails to pay the sum of the confiscation order when it falls due,” the former DPP said.

Meanwhile, Greene was convicted for money laundering, being monies, he received on behalf of Floyd Hall, some of which he placed into a specially formed client account having also opened a ledger for Hall in a disguised name.

In Greene’s case, Otuonye outlined: “Similarly, considering the delays the proceedings have suffered, the Hon. Chief Justice sentenced Mr Clayton Greene to a substantially reduced term of six months’ imprisonment.

“The Court also imposed a confiscation order in the sum of $330,021 against Clayton Greene to reflect his benefit from the crime of money laundering of which he was convicted.

Otuonye said Greene is to pay that sum within three months of the conclusion of any appeal

that he may bring, provided the confiscation order survives an appeal.

In sentencing the men, the Chief Justice had noted that she was exercising mercy, particularly with regard to the unreasonably lengthy delays.

However, she drew specific attention to what she termed the “sustained greed” exhibited by Hall, the careful planning that went into the criminal acts the two men were found guilty of, and the impact their combined actions have had on elected offices within

the territory.

Taking all of that into consideration, it is within the remit of the Court of Appeal to increase their sentences, should they find that the sentences do not adequately reflect the crimes for which the men are convicted.

In short, it is possible they would be given a longer sentence by the Appellate Court.

As both men were granted bail pending their appeal hearings, their sentences will start after the conclusion of same, provided no further appeal is launched.

Double homicide rocks Blue Hills

In a shocking turn of events, the quiet community of Blue Hills, Providenciales, has been rocked by a double homicide that has left residents reeling and police scrambling for answers.

The victims, Francius Pierre, 41, and Paulcius Louites Vereus, were both gunned down in a brazen attack on September 27th at Stammers Run, Snake Hill.

The violence erupted around 8:35 pm, when the Police Control Room was inundated with calls reporting the sound of gunshots.

Responding officers and medical personnel arrived at

the scene to find a grim tableau, Pierre and Vereus, both suffering from gunshot wounds.

Vereus was pronounced dead at the scene, while Pierre was rushed to a medical facility, fighting for his life, a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force revealed.

Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Pierre later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment in Jamaica, sending shockwaves through the community.

Superintendent Dean Holden, Head of Crime,

Safeguarding, Public Protection and Intelligence, expressed his condolences to the families and friends of both victims, stating, “The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force extends condolences to the family and friends of Mr Pierre, who succumbed to injuries this morning while undergoing medical treatment in Jamaica.

The Serious Crime Unit officers are continuing investigations and will leave no stone unturned as we actively pursue leads obtained.”

Preliminary investigations

suggest that the two men may have been the victims of a robbery attempt gone tragically wrong.

However, police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation to help bring those responsible to justice.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the devastating loss of two of its members.

The streets of Blue Hills are filled with a palpable sense of grief and fear, as residents question how such horrific

crimes could occur in their once peaceful neighbourhood and call on the Police to do more to stem escalating crime in the community.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force said it is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice and is urging anyone with information to contact the closest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800 8477. Information can also be shared anonymously through the Crime Stoppers P3 app.

Former Deputy Premier, Floyd Hall

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Clayton Greene

ILLEGAL STRUCTURES

The Crown Lands Unit announced last week that it has served 43 notices to illegal structures in Five Cays.

Letters were served directly to persons dwelling in the structures or posted on their walls while notices of unauthorised occupation were issued to unoccupied and incomplete structures.

The Unit noted that the exercise aimed to inform occupants and land users of their unlawful presence on Crown Land and to ensure compliance with the Crown Land Ordinance, which prohibits illegal squatting and unauthorised development.

The Unit also said that these efforts are essential for safeguarding Crown Land and promoting organised, sustainable development.

Despite this, many illegal structures are constantly being erected, especially with the influx of illegal migrants. Some argue that this formal approach by the unit is not harsh enough on the perpetrators and that there is no fear in them erecting illegal structures.

Is the unit, therefore, serving its purpose and moving as quickly as it can or does it need to change its approach?

What are your thoughts?

Ignorant of the law

Maybe the folks who build and live in them don’t know, maybe can’t read, the law.

Bullies

There is not a single country in this world, where you can land, build and live. People who do this are nothing but bullies and more often than not, bullies only know one language. The days of bowing to the illegals are over. TCI is changing rapidly and not for the better.

A proud legacy

Over the past 40 years, Providenciales, which was a garden, has declined into urban sprawl, shacks, shanty towns and ghettos. As a result successive, governments have presided over the development of illegal

direction of their own.

They can take houses down willy-nilly. This current PNP government needs to call the respective units in, review the names and ensure that TCI natives, duly approved permanent residents and other legal nationalities are not on those lists and their homes are not slated for demolition.

Anything else would be inhumane and a dereliction of duty on the part of an elected government. They cannot sit idly by and take the position that the matter is in the hands of the Attorney General who simply carries oversight over the Crown Lands Unit. They need to stop hiding behind the office of the Attorney General and take responsibility for things that impact our people on a daily basis.

Crown Lands Ordinance

structures and this is the result of neglect.

This is the proud legacy of the ministerial system of the TCI and reflects the lack of care and concern on the part of locally elected governments from 1976 to 2024.

Care and concern

Most recently after the Informal Settlements Unit moved in on illegal settlements, a number of persons who were let on to properties by the Crown Land Unit, that were applying for extensions and stays, still had their homes and assets demolished. This is unacceptable.

The process adopted by the government and its Crown Land Unit, in writing warning letters and giving notices sometimes two weeks in advance is not acceptable.

The clean-up of the island is important and critical but there is need for humanity and human rights protections to be enforced as well. It seems that the Informal Settlements Regime and the Crown Lands Unit have a life and

This is one disastrous piece of law and should be repealed. Its mandate seems to be the disenfranchisement of anyone the Crown Lands Unit could get its “hands-on”. The idea behind that law was to prevent future governments from taking Crown land, flipping the lands, self-enrichment and insider dealing.

There needed to be a fair and effective way of allocating Crown land, but this law does not accomplish that task. So far the Crown Lands Unit has not proven to be effective and fair. This is more of a Planning Department function where they get to ensure that persons have homes that are liveable and up to building code.

If not, demolition orders should be issued. It seems that the mission of the Crown Land Unit is to stop the illegal occupation of lands, and demolish and take back the land supplies of the Crown. Not helpful because that will only subject people to having to place their applications for land into a pool, a lottery system which helps no one.

This current government or the next one needs to seek a mandate to have this law removed and a law that will allow a sensible way of allocating land and getting rid of illegal structures.

Illegals

We do have a problem where the Global Migration Policy seems to portend to the accommodation of illegal migrants. This will lead to crime and illegal settlements. The Premier stated that the British has let the TCI down with the refusal of aid and vessels. The responsibility for defence is with the TCI government, not the UK. Its UKappointed Governor is part of the TCI local command. He should be shouting louder to CARICOM, the Caribbean and the Bahamas and get them to support his mission to embarrass the UK into taking care of TCIs national security needs. His cries for help fall flat because as a government they are giving money away such as the $13m to Club Med. So as a result the UK is saying these illegals, these illegal structures’ are “your problem TCI” not ours. So the cycle of illegal structures and migrants will continue. The Crown Lands Unit under the office of the Attorney General remains a hapless Unit with arcane and arbitrary processes designed to hurt and not help.

The government should not sit around and unleash the Unit on people who are obviously suffering. Owing to the British government’s preference for illegals this process of taking in more illegals and legals now, will lead to illegal structures continuing. Take one down and another will reappear. It is an endless cycle.

This asylum law as proposed by the Government and at the behest of the UK will invite more illegals and legals coming. The door remains open to illegal activity, UK government policy and illegal structures. It is really a policy joke and the kneejerk policy process on dealing with illegal settlements must stop. An orderly process must ensue.

TCI ushers in new era of border security with Border Force Bill

In a move set to reshape the Turks and Caicos Islands’ approach to safeguarding its borders, the House of Assembly has passed the Border Force Bill, formally establishing the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force.

This landmark legislation consolidates the functions of the Customs and Immigration Departments into a single, unified agency, poised to strengthen the nation’s defences against illegal migration, smuggling, and other border-related threats.

Armed with an operating budget exceeding $19m, supplemented by over $13m in capital expenditure, and a dedicated workforce of approximately 180 personnel, the Border Force is positioned to significantly bolster TCI’s capacity to defend its territorial borders.

The agency’s structure comprises three key operational divisions: ports operations, inland operations, and services, each staffed by officers with specialised skills to ensure optimal deployment of resources.

In order to secure the nation’s borders, control migration, and protect national interests while facilitating legitimate trade and travel, the Border Force officers will be equipped with enhanced capabilities, including crossconferred powers, cutting-edge border security technology, and robust intelligence gathering and analysis mechanisms.

Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Hon Arlington Musgrove, spearheaded the bill’s presentation in the House of Assembly on the 25th of September

2024, emphasising the urgent need for a more robust and coordinated border security apparatus.

“Illegal migration is on the rise globally, and here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we are witnessing unprecedented attempts of illegal migration, importation of prohibited and illegal items, and human smuggling,” Minister Musgrove declared.

“Almost every inhabited island is being threatened. We recognise that this is now a countrywide threat, which requires a nationwide response with innovative tactics, robust efforts, and tough legislations.”

Minister Musgrove underscored the enhanced capabilities of the Border Force, stating, “Frontline officers will be granted crossconferred powers, building on their

existing police-like authority.

“The latest in border security technology will be deployed to improve screening capabilities and detect potential threats. Intelligence gathering and analysis will guide resource allocation, enabling Border Force to target high-risk individuals and activities.”

However, the establishment of the Border Force has not been without its critics. Opposition Appointed Member Hon Alvin Garland raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the agency’s organisational structure and its potential impact on existing departments.

He said: “One of the main issues that this new department seems not to address is the lack of clarity in the organisational structure,” Garland stated. “It remains unclear

how the roles and responsibilities will be distributed between the Director General and the directors of the individual divisions.”

Despite these concerns, the government maintains that the Border Force represents a significant step forward in enhancing the nation’s border security.

With its unified structure, enhanced capabilities, and increased resources, the agency is expected to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Turks and Caicos Islands’ borders and protecting its citizens from the growing threats of illegal migration and transnational crime.

As the Border Force embarks on its mission, the nation watches with anticipation, hoping that this new era of border security will deliver on its promise of a safer and more secure future for the TCI.

Victims called on to “break the silence”

during Domestic Violence Awareness Month

This October, the Department of Gender Affairs observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month under the theme ‘Stop the Pain, Break the Chain: Silence Hides Violence,’ raising awareness, offering support, and encouraging individuals to speak out against all forms of domestic abuse.

The Department said it stands in solidarity with victims and survivors of domestic violence; a hidden epidemic that thrives in silence.

Every day, countless individuals suffer in fear and isolation, trapped in cycles of abuse.

“This month, we are calling on everyone to break that silence and

be a voice for change.”

Mrs Carolyn Dickenson, Director of the Department of Gender Affairs noted: “Domestic violence is not just a private issue, it affects entire communities. By speaking up, offering support, and educating ourselves, we can collectively break the chain of violence that has held so many victims captive.”

Throughout the month of October, the Department will be hosting a series of events to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster community support for those impacted by domestic violence.

These will include ‘Five

Minutes with Gender’, a programme aired every Tuesday on Radio Turks & Caicos; segments will provide insights into genderbased violence and its impact on the community from the lens of different organisations.

There will also be a gender pop-up, held every Friday across the islands. These interactive sessions will engage the public in discussions about domestic violence and gender issues.

Dickenson said: “We encourage everyone to wear purple on Fridays throughout October to show solidarity with victims and survivors of domestic violence.”

A town hall meeting will also be hosted at the Blue Hills New Testament Church. This will be a community-wide forum discussing domestic violence and ways to prevent it, providing a platform for survivors, advocates, and community leaders.

A church service will be held in Grand Turk at the Church of God Prophecy - a service of reflection and prayer for victims and survivors of domestic violence, reinforcing community support and solidarity,

There will also be educational and awareness sessions across the islands aimed at educating communities on the signs of abuse

and how to support those affected. Meanwhile, throughout the month the department is encouraging those individuals affected by domestic violence to break the silence and seek help. This will be done by way of public awareness campaigns which entail messaging designed to educate the public on available resources and how to intervene.

“We are calling on everyone to join us in the fight against domestic violence. By standing together, we can stop the pain, break the chain, and shine a light on the violence that silence hides,” the Director encouraged.

Executive Members of TCI Border Force (Photo: TCIG)

Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Hon Arlington Musgrove

Commissioner Martin clarifies rising homicide rates and shared firearms link

Commissioner of Police Mr Edvin Martin has issued a clarification regarding his recent remarks linking 32 murders to a single firearm, which have sent shockwaves through the Turks and Caicos Islands.

While his initial comments sparked speculation and public concern, the Commissioner has now shed light on the complex issue, emphasising that multiple individuals were involved in these heinous crimes, often utilising the same weapon, but not to the magnitude as previously thought.

In a statement issued on Saturday, September 28, the Commissioner said: “I wish to address and clarify the statements made during the Joint National Press Conference held on September 17, 2024, regarding the connection between 32 murders and a single firearm.

“My initial comments have led to speculation, and I understand the public concern from several quarters. It was incumbent upon me to provide a more detailed explanation.”

He continued: “Over the past

two years, ballistic results have shown that certain firearms are repeatedly linked to multiple homicides, with some weapons being involved in two, three, four, five, or even more cases”.

“It was in this context that the statement was made”, he stressed.

The Commissioner’s clarification underscores a deeply troubling pattern of violence in the territory, where a relatively

small number of individuals are responsible for a disproportionate number of homicides.

This revelation has ignited a fierce debate about the root causes of this escalating crime wave and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.

Commissioner Martin said:

“These findings point to a troubling pattern in which a relatively small number of individuals are

responsible for a significant portion of these violent crimes, often using the same firearms.

“This clarification is intended to resolve any confusion caused by my earlier remarks. I wish to assure the public that the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is committed to thoroughly investigating and addressing these serious matters”, the Commissioner emphasised.

Despite the clarification, concerns persist among residents who are grappling with the stark reality of record-breaking homicide rates.

The Commissioner’s initial statement, as reported by the Weekly News, suggested a direct link between 32 murders committed over years, and a single firearm, fuelling fears of organised crime and its devastating impact on the once-peaceful islands.

The Commissioner has attributed the surge in violence to a confluence of factors, including illegal immigration, drug trafficking, gun smuggling, and gang activity.

He has warned that the influx of illegal immigrants is bringing with it a dangerous cocktail of drugs, guns, and gangs, creating a volatile environment that is challenging for law enforcement to control.

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with this unprecedented wave of violence, the Commissioner’s clarification serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach to address the root causes of crime.

Commissioner of Police Mr Edvin Martin

Controversial Asylum Bill stuck in Parliament

– Opposition stage protest action against it

BY DELANA ISLES

The government is seeking to provide comprehensive legislation establishing various guidelines for persons seeking asylum in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the internal procedures dictating such requests.

On September 26, the Asylum Bill 2024 was read for the second time in the House of Assembly, making way for a debate on its contents and changes in the committee of the whole.

The six-part Bill is looking to establish an eligibility committee, streamline the application and review process, map out the appeal process for refusal, deportation or departure of refugees and several other miscellaneous guidelines.

At the end of the day, following rousing debate and significant protests from the opposition benches, the bill made its way to the committee of the whole for amendments. These discussions will continue when the House resumes on October 4.

However, the Bill is said to be “rushed legislation” by Leader of the PDM Opposition, Hon. Edwin Astwood, who along with several of his party members staged a protest action outside of the Premier’s Office on Wednesday, October 2.

The party is contending that the United Kingdom is forcing the TCI’s hand in exchange for the grant of proposed constitutional changes, a point strongly ventilated by Astwood this week.

The party is also worried about the potential impact on the citizenry, the voting franchise, and what they term an “opening of the floodgates” that has the capacity to cripple the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Noting that the asylum process requires immense resourceslegal, financial, and administrative - to function fairly and efficiently,

Astwood said that for a small island nation like TCI, where the immigration system is already overwhelmed by illegal migration, the introduction of such a bill without careful planning will only worsen an already difficult situation.

“Over the past week, many of you have raised serious concerns about the potential repercussions of this bill. The fear that it could open the floodgates for asylum seekers from around the world is not unfounded.

“We must ask ourselves: can our social, education, health, and legal systems adequately accommodate such an influx? Are we prepared for the unintended consequences that may arise?”

According to the party leader, the timing of the bill is suspicious and thereby questionable.

“Why now? Is this legislation being driven by directives from the UK Government through the Governor? Is this a situation of

‘quid pro quo’, that to get the desired constitutional changes, the PNP government has been directed to enact certain legislation? Such uncertainties only heighten our apprehension and warrant a thorough public discussion.”

Astwood is further calling for the Bill to remain in the committee of the whole and wants the government to take the Bill to the people for proper consultation.

“The people of TCI deserve a government that listens to them and engages them in meaningful dialogue on matters of national importance. The introduction of this bill, without consultation, is yet another example of the current administration’s disregard for democratic principles.

“The PDM firmly believes that any decision on asylum policy must be made with a full understanding of its potential impact on our country’s future.

“We cannot afford to pass laws that will destabilise our economy, overburden our immigration system, and weaken the social fabric of our communities.”

Acknowledging the work done by Former Premier (PNP), Rufus Ewing in introducing asylum provisions into the Immigration Ordinance - albeit without establishing meaningful controls - along with the work of Former Premier (PDM), Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson to tighten immigration protocols limiting the scope of asylum provisions, the PDM leader said much still needs to be done.

“Much more work is needed to ensure that any asylum system reflects the unique needs and limitations of our islands.

“We must take into consideration experiences from other territories, like the Cayman Islands, which spent nearly $2 million in 2022 alone on housing asylum seekers.”

He said the Cayman Islands’ situation demonstrates that there must be strict safeguards in place to avoid the system being easily abused, leading to exuberant costs and a heavy administrative burden.

THE BILL

Part one of the Bill makes provision for the short title, commencement and interpretation of terms in the Bill.

Part two establishes the Eligibility Committee, provisions for the appointment of members, tenure, functions of the Committee, their meetings, confidentiality and conflict of interest provisions, their decisions, renumeration of members and the source of the funds for such renumeration.

Part three makes provision for the application and review process, grounds for eligibility, the grant or refusal of exceptional leave pending grant of asylum, grant of asylum, application for indefinite leave to remain in the Islands, grant or refusal of that application and the revocation of asylum.

Part four provides for the appeal process and establishes the Refugee Review Committee which shall consider appeals, appointment and tenure of members, grounds of appeal, functions of the committee, effects of the appeal on the decision taken by the Minister and the powers of the Review Committee on appeals.

It also sets out the applicable provisions for the meetings of the

Review Committee, provisions for the Secretary, confidentiality and conflict of interest provisions for the committee, renumeration of members and source of the funds for such renumeration.

Part four also empowers the Governor to give directions to the Minister on the consideration of applications and to make rules for the hearing of appeals.

Part five of the Bill sets out the provisions for a refugee to leave the Islands, it also makes provision where an applicant for asylum or a refugee leaves the Islands through the deportation process.

It further provides for the process where the asylum seeker or refugee intends to leave the Islands of their own accord, as well as provision for circumstances where a person cannot appeal the decision made by the Minister in asylum matters.

Part six of the bill sets out the miscellaneous provisions such as protection of members of the Eligibility Committee and Refugee Review Committee from legal action for decisions made in good faith while conducting their functions.

It also makes provision for offences of persons who assist illegal entry in the Islands, with the knowledge that the persons seek to enter the Islands illegally to apply for asylum.

Part six also seeks to repeal the provisions for asylum which are contained in the Immigration Ordinance as well as the savings and transitional provisions, where it sets out what will be applicable to existing applications for asylum or to persons who have already been granted asylum.

PDM candidates and members protests rushed Asylum Bill in front of the Premier’s Office (Photo: Newslinetci)

OPINIONS

Safety and security in the age of disorder and mistrust

Why public and private sectors partnership is imperative for a secure and thriving society

At the dawn of a new millennium, the expanding and prosperous tourism industry, is clad with a spate of spiralling safety and security dilemmas, which promise to truncate its development and continued success, worldwide, and the TCI tourist industry is not immune.

And considering that the nation’s image is the major determinant of the traveling public and investors, the perception of security-related disbenefits, can assuredly stonewall the revolutionary development of the TCI tourist sector.

Lately, the national security landscape keeps shifting and mutating – triggering continual rethinking, re-evaluation and reconsideration of national security and safety strategies to sustain citizens’ survival, growth of the tourism sector and resilience against shock.

Considering these intricacies all stakeholders must act, and there should be a coherent and

BY D MARKIE SPRING

comprehensive plan to effectively engage TCI’s evolving national security threats; hence, acquiring the nation’s long term defence goals.

And so, policymakers must commit to a national security policy, fashioned by partners from across state institutions and the administrative apparatus, which is the long-established dimension of national security.

This concerted effort should include the Regiment, Ministry of National Security, intelligence and policing organizations to include private security firms and citizens who are proficient in law and law

enforcement.

This policy framework should address the current security challenges emanating from gang warfare, mass migration and other pertinent root causes.

And include a set of guiding principles and interests; coupled with an array of clearly defined goals designed to safeguard and promote national security for at least five years, considering the fast changing environment.

Besides, it must allow for the identification of policy objectives and areas of preferences to earmark the country’s limited resources and

leverage its strengths in key area to optimize outcomes.

This security framework is also set forward, especially anchored around sustainable tourism to promote physical, economic and social security within TCI’s society.

In this capacity, the peace, security and stability in our archipelago, oceans and shores are vital in underpinning sustainable development; henceforth, this policy guide should focus on safeguarding borders and maintaining orderly migration to defend against threats.

As we know, safety and security lie at the core of the development and prosperity of any nation and this is also true about the TCI; hence, the populace desires safety from risk and injury, and security from threats and danger.

Empirical evidence suggests, the public’s trust in the institutions, which are task to keep us safe, is extremely low and; therefore,

lawmakers must holistically regard our security and safety, and work with partners to achieve safety goals. Therefore, the government’s role – collaborating with the private sector – is to forge risk-resilient infrastructure to safeguard lives and respond to disaster aftermaths.

However, considering the scope and areas of operation policymakers must employ education, which underpins social security – enabling the safety of all citizens, working with policing institutions, and acquiring adequate skills necessary for their economic security.

Coupled with, a sense of moral and spirituality, which allow people to develop a sense of national identity and unanimity on the acuity and virtue of the national vision.

Today, we challenge our leaders to evaluate their current actions and propose steps to bolster their ability to deliver a more secure future for all citizens.

You are qualified but rejected

Keep applying

INTRODUCTION

Many of you know you are qualified for the job but when you applied for it, you get rejected. They say you are either underqualified or overqualified.

This can be very discouraging, especially when the position was filled by someone less qualified than you.

If you know you are qualified for a job, don’t let anyone make you feel inferior. Keep applying for the job you want and copy the relevant authorities including the labour department. I believe I shared part of my story with you before. When I was offered the position of management accountant at Cable & Wireless, I accepted the offer knowing that I would become the financial controller within a year.

A year came by, and I was not

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.

given the position, so I applied for the position when it was advertised. Many attempts were made for me to not get the position including offering me to go to Bermuda or Cayman to work saying that I need international experience even though I had international experience working in Canada. Anyway, the board did not approve the work permit and so I was secured in the position for at least

six years.

After six years in that role, I applied for the CEO position. I met opposition too as there were no plans to replace the CEO, but the government insisted that the position be given to a local.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE QUALIFIED?

When a job is advertised, the requirements for that job are

listed. Review the requirements and tick them off. If you tick all the requirements, then you are qualified for the job. Even if you do not tick all of the points you may still qualify depending on what the requirements are.

For example, if the job requires seven years’ experience and you have five years, still apply. If the job says that you need to speak Spanish or Creole and you do know that it is not a requirement, apply for the job. You are qualified.

Some of you may be overqualified but I encourage if you want to be in that organisation, apply for the position as that is one way of getting your foot in the door. If you are not qualified, apply for something else and get the necessary qualifications and experience so that within a few

years, you will be qualified.

KEEP APPLYING

You may get rejected but keep applying until they hire you. You cannot give up on something that you believe in. I never imagined I would have been the CEO of Cable & Wireless but because I applied for the CFO role, I was one step closer to becoming the CEO.

Conclusion

The important thing for you to do is to become qualified for the job that you want and never give up. Once you have the qualifications and experience, no one can take that from you. In fact, if you have the right attitude and perform well, there may be some positions you may not have to apply for because offers and promotions will come to you.

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.

The type of church needed in the Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is at a pivotal time in its history, especially spiritually. The church’s role becomes even more critical as the community grows and faces new challenges.

Revelation 2:1-7 provides a powerful message to the church in Ephesus that is equally relevant today. It speaks to the kind of church TCI needs—and the kind it must avoid becoming.

Look at the text - “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands.

2 “‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. 3 I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.

4 But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand

Based on Revelation 2:1-7

from its place, unless you repent.

E. LEWIS

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.

6 Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.’

The Church TCI Needs: A Church of Love and Truth As you see in the text above the church in Ephesus was commended for its diligence, hard work, and perseverance in the faith. This church was active, discerning, and did not tolerate false teaching. These are qualities that the churches in TCI must embrace.

In the face of societal pressures, materialism, and cultural shifts, TCI needs churches that hold fast to the truth of the Gospel, work tirelessly for the kingdom, and stand firm in sound doctrine.

The church in TCI must be

a beacon of light, unafraid to confront sin and injustice while upholding the authority of Scripture. The Ephesians’; ability to test false apostles (Revelation 2:2) serves as a reminder that the church must be discerning, ensuring that all teachings from the pulpit align with the Bible. In an era of increasing spiritual confusion and moral compromise, churches in TCI should embody this discernment, boldly standing for truth.

At the same time, this truth must be balanced with love. Jesus’s rebuke to the Ephesian church was clear: despite their strong work ethic and theological purity, they had “forsaken the love [they] had at first” (Revelation 2:4). The type of church that TCI needs is one that, while holding to sound doctrine, does not lose its love for Christ and people.

It must be a church where compassion and grace flow freely, welcoming the hurting, the lost, and the broken.

A church grounded in love will not only proclaim the truth but will also serve the community with humility, kindness, and generosity. Such a church reflects the heart of Christ, who calls His followers to love God with all their heart and to love their neighbours as themselves (Matthew 22:37-39). It is this love that will draw others to the Gospel and offer hope to the hopeless.

The church TCI must avoid: a loveless church

However, Revelation 2 also gives a stark warning of what happens when a church loses its love. The church in Ephesus had forsaken their first love, which refers to their passion and devotion to Christ. The danger for any church, including those in TCI, is

to become so focused on activities, programmes, and maintaining doctrinal purity that it forgets the core of the Gospel—love for God and love for others.

A church that operates out of obligation rather than love will soon become spiritually dry. It may continue to exist outwardly, with programs and activities, but without the lifeblood of love, it will lose its effectiveness and impact. Jesus warns that if the church does not repent and return to its first love, He will “remove its lampstand” (Revelation 2:5).

In other words, it will lose its witness and its ability to shine in the world. In conclusion, the type of churches that TCI needs combines theological truth with a fervent love for God and people. Churches that work diligently for the kingdom, stand firm in biblical truth, and yet overflow with compassion and grace. This balance is crucial for the church to thrive and fulfil its mission.

TCI does not need churches that are merely busy or theologically correct but have lost their love. It needs churches that embody the heart of Christ, standing as a light in a dark world, full of both truth and love.

Don’t be that friend!

In every friend group, you’ve got a unique cast of characters.

There’s the wise one you turn to for advice, who somehow has life all figured out. Then there’s your go-to when your car breaks down, who shows up like a personal roadside assistance. They are always ready to MacGyver your vehicle back to life. This is the friend who actually knows what a “fan belt” is and who can change a tire without Googling a YouTube tutorial.

You’ve got the adventure buddy, always down for a spontaneous trip, convinced that sleeping in a hut with no WiFi is “authentic”. And, of course, the wine/rum friend—the one who turns a casual night into a deep conversation.

Finally, there’s that friend you love but would never trust with

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

your secrets. They mean well, but your personal stories have spread like wildfire.

Everyone has something special, but not always. Here are a handful of friends you should stay away from. They are trouble on legs.

The Food Sharer: You always have that one friend who never orders their own food but somehow eats half of yours.

“Oh, I wasn’t that hungry,” they say, taking the last fry. Gweh. / guhweeh/ (verb) = Jamaican for go away, leave or exit.

The Perpetual Latecomer: That one friend who says, “I’m five minutes away,” when they’re clearly still in the shower. Time zones don’t apply to them—they’re on their own.

The Walking Wikipedia: You always have that one friend who

can’t just enjoy the movie. They have to tell you every behindthe-scenes fact and plot hole… during the movie.

The Over-planner: That friend who turns a simple coffee meet-up into a colour-coded, spreadsheet-worthy event.

“I’ve made an itinerary for our 20-minute catch-up!”

The Eternal Mooch: That friend who somehow always “forgets” their wallet but promises, “I’ll get you next time.” Next time never comes.

The Social Media Guru: You always have that one friend who documents everything— every meal, every step, every thought—so meticulously that your brunch turns into a fullblown photoshoot.

The Drama Magnet: That friend whose life is a constant soap opera, and somehow

you’re the co-star. Every day is “the worst day ever,” and it’s never boring.

The Group Chat Ghost: That friend who’s in the group chat but never replies. The last time they sent a message was probably 2016. They just...exist.

The Fitness Freak: You always have that one friend who tries to convince you that a 5 am. spin class is “fun.” Their energy at dawn should be illegal.

The Serial Dater: That friend who always has a new crush or partner, yet somehow every story starts with, “So, I think they might be the one…” every single time. What kind of friend are you?

Share if you care, louisedens@gmail.com or IG: @daviid.l2

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going

KENYATTA

Tighter drug laws target youth protection

In a move aimed at safeguarding the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the House of Assembly has passed the Control of Drugs Amendment Bill 2024.

This legislation, presented by Attorney General Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, seeks to bolster existing drug laws by introducing harsher penalties for offenses committed near schools, educational institutions, and social service facilities.

The Attorney General underscored the bill’s intent, stating, “The control of drugs amendment bill...seeks to amend the control of drugs ordinance to correct deficiencies...in relation to the victimisation of minors and forfeiture relating to such activities.”

She further elaborated on the introduction of “aggravated offences” for drug supply crimes committed in proximity to children and young people.

She said: “The bill would insert a section 5A to provide for aggravation of offenses, of supply of control drugs, where the offense is committed, in an educational institution or social service facility, or in their immediate vicinity, or in other places to which children, school children and students resort for educational sport and social activities.”

Explaining the intent of harsher penalties she underscored that: “The court should impose [penalties] that are stronger because the individual undertook

that offense near or at a school or educational institution...that is designed as a deterrent to ensure that persons think twice before they go to those places to expose children to these kinds of offences.”

The bill also empowers the courts to seize assets, such as vehicles, used in the commission of these aggravated offences.

On asset forfeiture, she said: “If they use anything in the commission of that offence, such as a vehicle or something, then that the court, once that person is found

guilty, can order the forfeiture of that vehicle.”

This measure aims to dismantle the infrastructure that facilitates drug-related activities near vulnerable populations.

Member of Parliament for Leeward and Long Bay, Hon Akierra Missick, voiced strong support for the amendment, highlighting its importance in protecting children and adolescents.

“I supported [this bill] on behalf of the children, young

people, teenagers...to have a closer statement being sent out there to would-be drug pushers...Don’t do it. Your jail time can be a lot longer than you think it is, and it is now an aggravated offence.”

Missick emphasised the developmental vulnerability of young people, particularly boys, stating, “Boys’ brains do not develop until they’re 25, and so we need to make sure that we are protecting the boys’ brains.”

She drew attention to the ease with which school premises and

public parks can be accessed by those seeking to exploit this vulnerability.

Other Members of the House stressed that the passage of this amendment signals a firm commitment from the Turks and Caicos government to shield its youth from the dangers of drug exposure and exploitation.

By enhancing penalties and introducing targeted measures, the islands are taking a proactive stance in the fight against drugrelated crime.

Early detection and treatment urged this Breast Cancer Awareness month

BY DELANA ISLES

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month celebrated globally to create awareness about the disease which affects millions of women.

This October, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is encouraging countries to highlight the importance of early detection, timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and the need to provide support for persons with lived experience including through patient navigation.

It is also an opportunity for all stakeholders to review progress, reflect and renew commitments in tackling the disease and to build momentum to address the existing disparities and challenges in access to breast cancer care.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the Turks and

excessive alcohol use.

A statement from the Governor’s Office marked the start of the month, encouraging everyone to help promote awareness of the importance of getting regular check-ups.

“Each one of us will know someone who has suffered from breast cancer and understand the devastating impact this disease can cause.

“We remember loved ones we have lost and offer support to those in our community affected by breast cancer.

“Early detection has a significant impact on treatment options and can save lives,” the statement read.

Common breast cancer signs and symptoms can include a lump or

Attorney General Hon Braithwaite-Knowles

Member of Parliament for Leeward and Long Bay, Hon Akierra Missick

TCI’s internal and external security a victim of wilful negligence and racial prejudice

Nothing describes the perilous predicament of Turks & Caicos citizens in being governed quite like the recent revelations by its locally-elected leader Washington Misick, and its unelected UK Overseeing Authority governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam. This is all captured in a most recent TC Weekly News September 2127 2024 article titled: ‘Premier blasts UK for failing to help curb soaring crime rate.’ This piece fully captures the ‘lack of vision’, cluelessness, deception, and gross willful negligence that all make up the running of our country. This is unsustainable and will, in the end lead to the ruin of our people and a crippling of the future for our children.

Let us begin first with the leader and Premier, Washington Misick. Here he is griping, in the most-mildest tones I might add, about his displeasure with UK Oversight governance in our country. He says: “I believe in some way the UK government has let us down. At the end of the day the UK is responsible for our security and they have not delivered everything they promised.” How strange.

The NGO Turks & Caicos Forum (TC Forum) that I am a part of, has been at the United Nations, on occasions too numerous to count, ‘ripping’ the British in no such mild terms, about their ‘willful negligence’ in securing our country from crime and illegal entry as our Constitution require that they do, and UN Article 73 leaves no doubt of their responsibility to do.

In my petitioning on the matter of our home, I even made a comparison to the British conduct in a sister OT, White-populated Falklands, where they provided them with millions of pounds, and a constant warship presence such that “not even a sandfly could get in their borders” (direct quote from my presentation).

BY BEN ROBERTS

Ben is a writer and published author of the novel ‘Jackals of Samarra,’ at Amazon.com. He is a Turks & Caicos Islander who often contributes articles to T&C local newspapers. He is a founding member of the NGO Turks & Caicos Forum (TC Forum) that gives voice to matters Turks & Caicos Islands. Contact him at: grandt730@aol.com

During all this by TC Forum at the UN Misick had not a word to say. But now he is supposedly ‘blasting’ the UK on this issue? What a joke. Does this have anything to do with the fact that T&C elections are in the offing, and this might be an attempt to make him and his party look like they are ‘for the people?’ Poor if this is the case.

But Misick should remember that the previous governor Dakin, just before making his much longed-for exit, gave his version of a ‘Speech From the Throne’, or whatever nonsense they call it. In that speech, Dakin defended his record on crime and illegal migration by saying that responsibility for this was jointly shared by him and the Premier and his local govt. Absolutely untrue.

This is the full responsibility of the UK Overseeing Authority. But Misick let that go and sat there in silence, never saying a word then or since. Now he is complaining they are at fault? What kind of leadership is this? Then he goes on to call for a military presence by asserting that UK ‘boots on the ground’ would send a strong message in deterring this crime. Heavens no! Is this man serious?

UK’s political presence in oversight governance is distasteful enough, and we absolutely do NOT need their military presence on our T&C soil. That would be a most backward step.

We do well without them and have never had any longstanding

military presence on our soil by them. What we should do is go back to training our own citizens to police our country. Misick should know this. He is a former police who ‘walked the streets’ of T&C and should know that there was miniscule crime when this situation existed.

What we need is their intel expertise and that of European Interpol. But what I have been told is that we get these people often from the UK, who sit comfortably indoors in air-conditioned offices getting paid huge salaries, without their intel skills ever being applied on the streets, while our local police are paid far less, and have to do the community policing. Not only is this demoralising to the police department and local police, but it does not lend itself to crime-solving. Furthermore, Misick cannot ‘have his cake and eat it too.’

Not very long ago in an incident with T&C Air Traffic Controllers he took them to task for allegedly staging a ‘sick out.’ In a meeting on this, he allegedly threatened them that they were replaceable and that he could have 10 UK Air Traffic Controllers “just like that” in their place.

So Misick cannot on the one hand claim that the UK stands ready to help him disadvantage his people them claim that, by their inaction and failure to keep promises, they are disadvantaging his people. So ‘schoolboyish’, and not a good way to demonstrate

proper leadership.

If Misick demonstrates a cluelessness and lack of foresight, governor Daniel-Selvaratnam, at the other end of the spectrum, displays a sly-fox deception characteristic of British political colonial oversight. She sympathises with him and his concerns, but tries to separate herself by stating: “but I was appointed to serve the interests of the Turks & Caicos Islands.”

Nothing could be more false. She, and all T&C governors before her for centuries, represent the interests of the UK. They are agents of the Crown and its Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO). Full stop!

So this attempt at lulling T&C citizens into the notion of looking out for their interests (probably an FCO point encouraged to sell) is nothing more than naked deception. She should refrain from such here because in this instance she is contradicting herself. If she is serving “the interests of the Turks & Caicos Islands” then these citizens most pressing concern is the burden of crime and illegal migration they are staggering under.

What is she doing to alleviate this distress? She goes on to say: “So in doing that I am pursuing all avenues and not just relying on the UK in respect to the operational support that we need…we have been leveraging those international partnerships to ensure that we do not remain vulnerable.” Nice sounding, but it does not amount to much.

At the end of the day, the UK claims to be the Overseeing Authority and Administrative Power over T&C. So they cannot now hide by claiming this is all dependent on smooth working together with others in ‘international partnerships.’ It is an unacceptable avoidance of responsibility. Moreover, here is this that shows the blatant racial prejudice involved.

Falklands is a sister OT. The people there are White, and the UK boasts of its lineage back to Britain. This territory gets millions of pounds; has a continuous naval presence to protect its borders; and relies on no ‘international partnerships.’ Why? Because the UK and Britons see it as being of prime importance to ensure the security of people who look like them whose lineage they can easily trace back (yes, from when they landed there as sheepherders).

The people of T&C are no such people. They are African mixed with Taino and Lucayan descent (yes the Arawak DNA was almost, but not totally wiped out by the incoming destitute Europeans). So, their internal security and borders have no such priority. What naked racism. And allowed to thrive in this 21st century?

Here is some advice for both Misick and Governor DanielSelvaratnam. T&C has a cadre of highly capable military professionals, trained in what is among the best militaries in the world that is the US Armed Forces.

I am in contact with them, grew up with some of them, and am more than ready to easily connect our T&C national security apparatus with them. Not only can they train our police in internal security and intel gathering so there are no ‘boots on the ground’, but they are also highly capable of protecting our borders so that we will have little to no need for ‘international partnerships.’

I would suggest that, in the near future, those valuable human assets be utilized to ensure the security of our country both from inside and outside. And as for now our people of Turks & Caicos, and their grumbling elected officials, should see to filing a case(s) in Court against the UK for gross and willful negligence in ensuring their internal and external protection, as required by them in the Turks & Caicos Constitution.

Early detection and treatment urged this Breast ...

swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit, changes in the size or shape of the breast, change in the texture or colour of the breast, and/or a rash, crusting or changes to the nipple or any unusual discharge from the nipple. Anyone, male or female, experiencing any of these signs and symptoms should see a healthcare practitioner.

“During this month, we also recognise and thank all our dedicated healthcare workers whose efforts enable us to spend quality time with our loved ones.”

A slew of activities has been mapped out in observance of the month: an awareness walk on Saturday, October 5; an island walkathon on October 19; a luncheon on October 26 and on

November 16, the annual In The Pink Gala event.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer globally with around 2.3 million new cases every year. It represents one in eight cancer cases in both sexes and a quarter of all cancers in women with 70% mortality occurring in resource-constrained settings. Health system barriers

and patient-level factors with low levels of awareness and knowledge are contributing to low uptake of early detection services, with resultant late-stage diagnoses and poor outcomes, the WHO has affirmed.

They also noted that in many resource-constrained settings, breast cancer affects a relatively younger population significantly

contributing to premature mortality and maternal orphans.

In 2021, the WHO launched the Global Breast Cancer Initiative to reduce mortality rates by 2.5% per year by 2040 to save 2.5 million lives through three key pillars of action on health promotion for early detection, timely diagnosis; and comprehensive breast cancer management.

Government and Christian Council “united in prayer”

The Governor, HE Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam and the Premier Hon

Charles Washington Misick met with the President of the Christian Council, Pastor Wilbert Jennings and the council’s Executive Secretary of the Christian Council, Janet Stubbs.

According to information from the Governor’s Office, the officials were “united in prayer and committed to tackling crime”.

Their discussions focused on collective efforts to support those who are vulnerable, develop safe spaces and strengthen community engagement.

In support of these efforts, the Christian Council has launched a series of multi-denominational prayer services offering a safe space for individuals to reflect, share their experiences and draw strength from collective faith.

TCI tourism industry veteran elected as CHTA’s first VP

Karen Whitt, a name synonymous with the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourism and Hospitality sector, has been elected as the First Vice President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA).

This landmark appointment not only recognises Whitt’s outstanding contributions but also signifies a new era of influence and representation for the Turks and Caicos on the regional stage.

Whitt’s journey to this prestigious position has been marked by unwavering dedication and an unyielding passion for promoting the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Since 2005 Karen Whitt has been a leading figure in the Turks and Caicos hospitality industry, becoming synonymous with the country’s brand on the international stage.

On September 23rd 2024, Whitt achieved another milestone in her career, officially joining the Executive Board of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) as its newly elected First Vice President.

Throughout her career, Karen has been a driving force behind the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s efforts to elevate the country as a premier tourism destination.

She has fostered strong relationships with local stakeholders while tirelessly promoting Turks and Caicos to the global travel community. A twoterm Past President of the TCHTA, Karen was instrumental in creating the association’s signature events,

Star Awards and Maskanoo™, both of which have become cornerstone celebrations for the islands. Today, she continues to serve as a valued Board Director and Marketing Chair.

“Karen’s contributions over the years have been invaluable,” said Stacy Cox, CEO of the TCHTA.

“She has consistently displayed her unwavering commitment to the industry, and this appointment is well deserved. It’s a testament to her hard work and the respect she has earned from those who are tasked with charting the way forward for Caribbean tourism.

We are excited to see what she will achieve in this new role.”

As Vice President of Marketing

and Brand Development for the Hartling Group overseeing The Sands at Grace Bay, The Palms Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club, Karen has achieved international accolades. Through that role, her passion for community service has proven to be as prominent as her dedication to the tourism sector. She proudly chairs and supports annual fundraisers for the National Cancer Society and the Red Cross, including the wellknown “In the Pink” and “Red Hot Challenge” events.

TCHTA President, James McAnally shared, “Karen’s appointment is a proud moment for all of us in the Turks and Caicos hospitality industry,” He

continued, “Her leadership and dedication are inspiring, and her commitment to both our local industry and the wider Caribbean has earned her this well-deserved recognition. We have no doubt she will continue to uplift the entire region and advocate well for our

destination in this new role.” Karen will serve as First Vice President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association for the 2024-2026 biennium, supporting CHTA President Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resort, St. Lucia.

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

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

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

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

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

CONTACT US NOW AT TCWEEKLYNEWS@GMAIL.COM

Executive Secretary of the Christian Council, Janet Stubbs; Governor, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick and President of the Christian Council, Pastor Wilbert Jennings

Tourism and Hospitality Leader, Karen Whitt

Infrastructure boost for South Caicos

– Ministry opens new office and launches contractor

In a landmark move to bolster infrastructure development in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development has opened a new office in South Caicos.

This initiative is coupled with a comprehensive training programme for local contractors, aiming to equip them with the skills needed to drive the islands’ growth.

“The establishment of an office presence in South Caicos reflects our dedication to fostering sustainable development and ensuring that local contractors are well-equipped to meet the demands of our growing infrastructure

needs,” stated Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon Jamell Robinson. He further emphasised the economic benefits of investing in the local workforce, stating, “By investing in our local workforce, we are not only stimulating the economy but also ensuring that our projects are delivered with quality and efficiency.”

This comes as the minister and a team from his ministry recently visited South Caicos and conducted extensive community engagement, with stakeholders actively participating in discussions about the island’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Contributors needed

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

Perhaps you’re a great cook and have created lots of delicious recipes that use local ingredients.

Maybe you have ideas on how to save money when shopping and know where to find all the latest bargains.

Or are you an entrepreneur who would like to share tips on setting up a new business?

We need regular contributors

of 400 word articles on a variety of topics for our Lifestyle pages. Get in touch with us at the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and pitch your idea for a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly column.

You will have your name in print along with your business contact details if requested.

It’s a great way to share your knowledge and promote your business or start-up. Contact us now at tcweeklynews@gmail.com

This collaborative approach underscores the ministry’s commitment to transparency and ensuring that development initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of the local community.

The ministry also conducted site visits to ongoing infrastructure projects, demonstrating a hands-on approach to project management and quality control.

According to a statement from

training

the ministry, this visit to South Caicos marks a significant step towards realising the government’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Former NHIP CFO charged with financial crimes

In a shocking turn of events, Tessa Been Malcolm, the 41-year-old former Chief Financial Officer of the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP), has been charged with a slew of financial crimes.

A statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) revealed on Monday, September 30, 2024 that Malcolm is facing one count of Theft, one count of False Accounting, and one count of the Use of Criminal Property.

These charges sent shockwaves through the national healthcare system and raised serious questions about financial oversight and integrity within the NHIP.

Detectives from the Financial Crime Unit have been diligently investigating this case since a report was lodged in August 2022.

The details of the alleged crimes have yet to be fully revealed.

Malcolm was granted $50,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in the Magistrate’s Court on October 8, 2024, where the full extent of her alleged crimes will likely be unveiled.

The NHIP plays a crucial role in

the nation’s healthcare system, and any financial impropriety within its ranks can have far-reaching consequences for citizens who rely on its services.

stressed that this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in public institutions.

Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon Jamell Robinson interacts with residents of South Caicos at a meeting (Photo: TCIG)

Former NHIP CFO Tessa Been Malcolm

Residents who weighed in on the news via social media

OPINIONS

Property management

As a vacation rental owner or manager, have you ever asked yourself what sets you apart from your competitors and what are the elements that will make your guests remember you?

Once they set foot in your accommodation, the first impression your guests make is what will have the greatest impact on the rest of their stay. The welcome is therefore a crucial moment to score as many points as possible from the start and to be sure to have guests who are completely satisfied with your services and hospitality. Aside from having impeccable accommodation, how can you welcome them in a remarkable way?

Give your guests a warm and personalized welcome, you can simply write a welcome note with their name on a small blackboard. Personally I put a small welcome book, with the internet codes and other practical instructions for the place, in addition to that, you will see positive comments and reviews at the end of their stay in that same book.

You may not have the budget to create a full welcome basket for your guests, but remember, “it’s the thought that counts.” Even the smallest and simplest gesture can inspire guests to leave you a great rating and a glowing review on your website after their stay in your vacation rental. So just get creative and prepare your own welcome gift!

1. One very important thing, and upon arrival, guests are certainly hot, make sure you have small bottles of cold water in the fridge. You can also prepare small cold and wet towels (kept in the fridge), which can be scented with eucalyptus essential oil, it is very refreshing and appreciated, and you will

give them to the guests from the first moment they arrive, you can serve them on a small tray or plate. And if you really want to give them an island vibe, prepare a homemade rum punch.

2. A basket of local products: Your guests are arriving soon at your accommodation and want to discover more of your region. What could be better than a good little basket of local products! A bottle of rum, rum cake, local products such as soap, cream, handmade bracelet, salt, etc… When your guests spend a great vacation with you, they love to remember it through small local souvenirs that they can take with them when they return 3. A homemade gourmet basket: A bottle of wine, a cocktail kit, cheese, pâté, olives, etc… Your guests will discover more of your region by walking and doing various activities. But once you get home, some of

them will probably be thirsty and will probably want to relax with a good glass of wine or an aperitif accompanied by small cocktails. Prepare a nice tray in the kitchen with a bottle of wine and glasses of wine carefully prepared by you and personalized with a little note to invite your guests to appreciate it.

4. 4. A first aid kit: Offering a first aid kit will not only be very useful for your hosts but they will be touched by this thoughtful gesture. This will save them from having to go buy certain necessities during their shopping. In addition to this practical aspect, this type of box does not require a big budget. Here are some suggestions:

5. A set of bath towels, beach towels, washcloths, soaps, shampoo, toilet paper, tissue paper, and sunscreen samples.

6. Coffee, tea, and sugar. I always offered fresh eggs from my

Excessive heat watch extended for Antigua and Barbuda

As the Caribbean sun beats down with unusual intensity, the twinisland nation of Antigua and Barbuda finds itself in the grip of a sweltering heatwave.

Four days ago, meteorological officials placed Antigua and Barbuda under an Excessive Heat Watch, cautioning that the heat index could reach or exceed a scorching 38 °C (100 °F).

Initially set to last until Friday, the watch period has now been extended to Tuesday, underlining the persistent nature of this weather

event.

The watch, effective daily from 10 am to 4 pm, comes as a result of a perfect storm of climatic conditions.

Light winds and elevated humidity levels are conspiring to create dangerously hot conditions, turning the tropical paradise into a potential health hazard for residents and visitors alike.

“The combination of high temperatures and humidity may lead to excessive heat levels, particularly affecting sensitive

chickens, mentioning to the guests that they were fresh, they loved it.

7. Some owners will also offer beach chairs, coolers, and beach umbrellas. 8. For rainy days or evening fun: Card games, board games, dice, dominoes, etc…

Make a personalised map of the surrounding area highlighting restaurants, boutiques, activities and points of interest, so that your guests can enjoy one of the places you recommend to them.

If you want to buy gift vouchers, contact a local restaurant or business to establish a partnership. This can be a financially interesting solution in addition to receiving good deals from them. It is a fair win-win exchange: you will send them customers if they give you a price on their offers (restaurants or shops) or if they give you good deals. This will also suit your guests who will benefit more from these good deals.

All these little touches will be a great help to your guests who want to discover the island and the neighborhood where your vacation rental is located.

If your guests are staying at your vacation rental during the holiday season, you can imagine that making their stay a little festive will really make their stay more enjoyable for their experience as travelers. But be sure to keep your decor and words neutral in order to respect the religious beliefs of your guests (for example for the Christmas or Easter period).

Don’t hesitate to decorate your vacation rental in the theme of the holiday in question: outdoor lights for the winter holidays with Christmas decorations, or even, spooky surprises and treats around Halloween, a pumpkin pie for the fall, etc… Any idea is good to celebrate the arrival of your

guests according to the season, the holiday and the budget.

In addition to offering a memorable stay in your home, you can possibly consider establishing a partnership with an airport shuttle service to come and pick them up directly at their first destination. Your guests will feel like they are receiving preferential treatment and will certainly recommend you. You can establish a partnership and agree on a special rate with a taxi company, however, I suggest you do not refer them to a jitney, not only is it a question of insurability, but also of professionalism.

A welcome magazine with helpful information and suggestions on how to make the most of all your area has to offer, and again, a handwritten welcome note to greet them.

If you are welcoming a family with young children, in this case you can prepare them with a kit specially for children: Plastic plates and cutlery, a high chair, Coloring books, colored pencils, chalks, markers, indoor and outdoor toys for children.

You don’t necessarily need to be overly creative to delight your guests and make their arrival unforgettable, welcoming your guests is the most important.

If you have any questions about property management, or if you are looking for a company to take care of your property, do not hesitate to contact us, Turks and Caicos Villas and Gardens at denisbgarden@gmail.com you can also visit us at www.turks-and-caicos-villas. com and also on our Facebook page Turks & Caicos villas

If you are a restaurateur, craftsman, sports company or anything else related to tourism and would like us to write about you, do not hesitate to contact me.

groups,” warned meteorological officials.

Health experts are particularly concerned about vulnerable populations. The elderly, young children, lactating mothers, and individuals with chronic illnesses such as heart conditions and respiratory issues face notably higher risks during this period of extreme heat.

“Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and exhaustion, can be severe and even life-threatening,” the advisory cautioned. Symptoms

The watch, effective daily from 10 am to 4 pm, comes as a result of a perfect storm of climatic conditions

to watch for include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and extreme thirst. In cases of severe symptoms like confusion or loss of

consciousness, immediate medical attention is crucial, and residents are advised to call 911 without delay. (Loop News)

COLUMN DENIS BELANGER

Regional News

PM Mitchell highlights potential of sargassum as a resource in Grenada

Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell on Tuesday said the Caribbean provides a unique opportunity to turn the tide on what is viewed as a sargassum problem into a solution that can have ripple effects on all of the stakeholders who have so far been negatively impacted.

Mitchell told delegates from the Caribbean, Central and South America, attending the two-day second European Union-Caribbean Global Gateway conference on Sargassum, said the idea to host this conference bloomed out of the fourth Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) conference held in Antigua earlier this year.

“I’m happy that we have been able to pull it off in relatively a short period of time, despite the intervening challenges that occurred,” Mitchell said in an obvious reference to the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl when it hit several Caribbean countries including Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines in July.

He said the conference is an attempt to address the sargassum challenge, adding “we believe that we have a unique opportunity in Grenada and in the Caribbean Basin to turn the tide on what is viewed as a problem into a solution and into a solution that can have ripple effects to all of the stakeholders that it has thus far negatively impacted.

“The lessons we are learning can help nations facing their own climate crisis, from wildfires in Canada to flooding in Europe,” Mitchell said, noting the devastation and death in the United States caused by Hurricane Helene.

“It is our actions that have led to hurricanes that are on steroids. It is our actions that have led to the blooming of sargassum that are on steroids. And so it is all collective actions that will, in fact, change the course and turn the tide on this.

“And so, I think this is a unique opportunity for us to show that through partnership, we can find the solutions that can be sustainable and that can lead to changing problems into solutions.”

Prime Minister Mitchell, who is also the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) chairman, said that sargassum had taken over as much as 70 per cent of the east coast of Grenada, “blanketed with saga, both on land and in the ocean.

“…in some instances, the sargassum are walls of sargassum. I’m not a big man, but sometimes the walls are tall enough that you can stand on the walls and

you’re not sink,” Prime Minister Mitchell said, adding that there’s a photo of him standing on a wall of sargassum that is strong enough to at least take his weight, “and I suspect perhaps the weight of several other persons here in the room.

“Now you may see this as a problem, or you may see it as a solution. So it clearly tells me that sargassum has properties that, even when dried, perhaps could be used in construction, perhaps could be used in see defences. “

Mitchell, an attorney, reminded the conference being held under the theme “Turning the Tide: Sustainable Practices and Economic Opportunities for Sargassum in the Caribbean Basin,” that while he is neither a scientist researcher, perspective matters, “and so it’s important for us to make sure that our perspective is that we will find the solutions.”

He said he hoped the conference will end with “very concrete solutions and action points that we can share with the world and with the region.

“This is a regional challenge, and we must pursue a regional approach to it. We may all get there at different points in that march, but it is absolutely important that we come out of this twoday conference with a regional consensus as to the approaches that we will take to treat with this challenge and this opportunity.”

He said the conference has brought together some of the brightest minds on the subject with experts, scholars, practitioners

throughout the day, and therefore, we want to emphasise that we should not discount the value of youthful input into this exercise.

“We should not be afraid to be frank, open and transparent in our discourse with each other. This is the second time this conference is happening, so it is a wonderful opportunity for us to relook, rethink, regard our thoughts and be very clear with each other.”

Mitchell said that the clearer delegates are, the better the communication, the more likely the conference will reach consensus on any given issue.

face,” Mitchell said.

The conference is an initiative under Global Gateway, the European Union’s strategy to boost investments that generate smart, clean and secure value chains across the world.

The Barbados-based Delegation of the European Union said that since 2011, countries within the wider Caribbean basin have wrestled with the growing inundations of sargassum on their coasts.

from diverse backgrounds, from just about 30 different countries, both in person and virtual participants.

“Our collective diversity is going to be key to challenging conventional wisdoms and generating bold new ideas. And I want to emphasize that we are not here to maintain the status quo.

“So, we should not be afraid to be disruptive. We should not be afraid to be innovative in championing some of the solutions that we may think is appropriate for addressing this issue.

“We expect, not, that we hope, we expect that this conference will create sustained partnerships that will allow participants to share resources, knowledge and best practices to foster a stronger and more collaborative future,” Mitchell said, adding “we must allow the science to inform the policy”.

Mitchell said he was sure there will have some scientific consensus that sargassum will remain a significant opportunity in the region’s coastal ecosystems due to environmental changes for a sustained and foreseeable future.

“The causes are complex, and we are not here to complain so I will not lament. I will accept that objectively, we have the sargassum. It will keep coming, and if it presents us with an opportunity.

“So I expect that everyone has something to contribute. Hence the whole-of-society approach to tackling this issue. I believe we have students who should be here if they’re not here, we expect them

“We expect that strong partnerships that are already in place will continue to grow and blossom and will all blossom the sargassum bloom and when we all return to a respective familiar places that we call home, our roles as ambassadors in continuing to champion, speak about and foster the partnership would be even more critical. “

He said it is clear from just taking a cursory look at the boots outside of this door that there are significant opportunities already for exploiting this resource.

“What we need to ensure is that we can scale this up, we can fund it, and we can make it sustainable, and importantly, we can empower the communities that have been negatively impacted by this. It is critical because there are lots of communities who’ve suffered as a result of our inability thus far to treat with this issue.”

Mitchell acknowledged that if there is going to be a regional approach, there will be points of friction, there will be difference of perspectives.

“There will be laws, rules, regulations that we are going to have to address. We are dealing with the sea, and the sea just like land has boundaries, has limits, has jurisdictional issues. “But again, I would urge us, and particularly for the policy makers who are in the room and who have the ability to treat with those issues that the sargassum doesn’t respect any jurisdiction.

“It does not respect any boundary delimitation. It doesn’t miraculously, say, I’m going to spare Grenada and I’m going to go to Venezuela, I’m going to spare St. Lucia and I’m going to go to Dominica. And so we would urge that we not use conventional borders and barriers to prevent us from finding global or regional solutions to the challenges that we

It said that this phenomenon has a substantial economic impact in sectors like tourism and fisheries, and poses public health risks and the event will provide the estimated 250 delegates an opportunity “to drive dialogue, action and investment in Sargassum.

In her address to the conference, the head of the European Union and Ambassador to Barbados, the Eastern and Eastern Caribbean, Malgorzata Wasilewska, said the EU is “absolutely committed to making this conference not another talk shop that we come out with commitment and clear understanding what we’re going to do when we leave here.

“The momentum is definitely there,” she said, urging delegates to imagine the beach covered with “brownish, smelly, stinky seaweed that would not allow you to walk on that beach or swim on that beach, and that affects local community.

“We mustn’t allow that to happen. In preparing for this conference, we were actually amazed to find out how much is going on and how much is being done in various parts of the world.

“...the research is out there. We just need to make sure that we find ways of using that research in order to address the problem. But there are also a lot of smaller, some bigger, but most very small initiatives that are already producing various products from sargassum.”

The EU diplomat said that the conference will also look at funding, saying that is why the European Investment Bank as well as other international financial institutions are in attendance.

“The funding can be available, but we need to be creative…we need to find a creative way of transforming the problem into economic benefit that will free up tourism, that will create jobs, and they will basically earn money, both for the region, as well as for the investors,” she added. (Loop News)

Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell

Regional News

Haiti conflict drives thousands toward famine

A gang-fuelled social and political crisis in Haiti has swollen the ranks of those suffering severe hunger in recent months, with an estimated 5.4 million Haitians having run out of food and gone a day or more without eating.

Of those, at least 6,000 residents of the Caribbean island nation now suffer catastrophe-levels of hunger, according to data released this week by global hunger watchdog Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC.

Catastrophe or famine-level hunger is defined as having almost no food despite using all coping strategies, leading to starvation, destitution and death.

Those experiencing severe hunger are up from just under 5 million estimated late March. The figure is set to surpass 5.5 million by next June, or about half of Haiti’s population of over 11 million, IPC said.

In a report, the IPC blamed escalating violence in and around the capital of Port-au-Prince for

causing “serious difficulties in supplying basic foodstuffs to the regions, limiting households’ physical and financial access to food.”

The IPC also cited a high inflation rate as an aggravating factor, at a time when spending on food accounts for up to 70% of household budgets.

The hunger stalking Haitians has worsened dramatically since 2014, with close to half the population suffering severe food insecurity. U.S. aid group Mercy Corps estimated this was just 2% a decade ago.

The IPC’s catastrophe warning is the beginning of Phase 5 or the top end of a scale used by U.N. agencies and aid groups to determine food insecurity, which can escalate to a declaration of famine in a region.

For famine to be declared, at least 20% of the population must be suffering extreme food shortages, with one in three children acutely malnourished and two people out

of every 10,000 dying daily from starvation or from malnutrition and disease.

Some 18% of Haiti’s population is currently estimated to be facing emergency-level or Phase 4 hunger.

Many of the worst affected are living in makeshift camps hosting some of the over 700,000 people displaced by the ongoing conflict. Many fled without belongings and now have no means of earning money to feed their families.

“The gangs forced us out. I lost my parents – my mother and father. The gangs burned them alive in the house, and now we can’t go back,”

his arms

Port-au-Prince camp resident Rose Petit-Homme told Reuters.

On Sunday, the operator of the capital’s main port extended a closure it announced last week through Friday, a measure which is expected to worsen shortages and raise prices further.

Also on Monday, the United Nations Security Council renewed its mandate for a Kenyan-led

international security force to help Haitian police fight gangs. A year into the mission, few troops have been deployed and funding remains scarce.

Haiti’s interim government has requested the force be converted into a formal U.N. peacekeeping mission, but the move was opposed by China and Russia, which both hold veto powers. (Reuters)

Govt moves to quash false income tax rumours

A young father was killed as he held his eight-month-old daughter

Tuesday, mere steps away from his home on Boswaina Court.

In the sudden and brutal shooting, a gunman emerged from a white Japanese vehicle, unleashing a hail of bullets on the 27-year-old.

The infant in his arms remained physically unharmed; another sixyear-old nearby was also uninjured.

The victim’s family could be heard wailing as the police press

liaison debriefed the press on the incident.

Officers are intensifying their search for the lone gunman after the Flamingo Gardens incident marked the 90th murder of the year.

The victim had reportedly just returned to his residence after picking up his daughter and another six-year-old child from school.

Authorities fear the psychological toll on the children.

Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings said: “I’m sure the children are traumatised. Adults are

traumatised when these incidents occur.”

Police said the victim is known to them but the investigation remains in its early stages.

“As a country, we have to be able to talk to our males,” CSP Skippings said. “We have to let them know that we will have conflicts, but we have to find different ways to resolve these conflicts using an edge tool not a firearm. It’s not the answer. It escalates the situation more.”

(Tribune242)

The Government has moved to quash rumours circulating on social media that it is to implement a national income tax.

A spokeswoman said that officials had been made aware of the “unfounded“ claims being disseminated on WhatsApp chats and other social media.

The spokeswoman also scotched claims that residents were being forced to complete a government survey that was linked to the supposed new tax, although she added that those households selected “are required to participate”.

The spokeswoman said: “The correct name of the survey referred to is the ‘Household Income and Expenditure Survey’.

“This very important survey has been in progress since June, and is needed to update the Consumer Price Index and is not related in any way to the new Corporate Income Tax.

“The new CIT, planned for implementation in 2025, only applies to large multinational corporations with revenues exceeding €750 million, not to individuals.

in his arms on

At least 6,000 residents of the Caribbean island nation now suffer catastrophe-levels of hunger

The 27-year-old father was the only person hit during the shooting

Bahamas: Dad shot dead with baby in

Regional News

Bahamas: Tie minimum wage rise to inflation, specialist urges

The authority responsible for addressing all labour-related matters in The Bahamas has yet to discuss another potential minimum wage increase amid calls for all future rises to be linked to inflation.

Peter Goudie, one of the private sector’s representatives on the National Tripartite Council, told Tribune Business that the body has only just been re-appointed and only met for the first time subsequent to that on Monday where who will be named to its key posts was discussed.

Speaking after Pia Glover-Rolle, minister of labour and the public service, said “the stakeholders are at the table” over another proposed minimum wage increase, he also called for future rises to be indexed to The Bahamas’ prevailing annual inflation rate via the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

This, Mr Goudie told this newspaper, would ensure that wages for the lowest-paid Bahamians kept pace with the cost of living while enabling any increases to be more manageable for employers than the 24 percent rise to $260 per week that was

implemented from New Year’s Day 2023.

“We have been appointed as the National Tripartite Council again. It finally happened,” he confirmed.

“We had a meeting yesterday in order to determine who the chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer and secretary are.”

Asked whether another minimum wage rise has been placed before the Council as a discussion topic, Mr Goudie replied: “I haven’t seen anything at all and there have been no discussions as yet. There has not been any discussion because we did not have a Council. Now we do have a Council.

“If she [Mrs Glover-Rolle] directs us to look at it we will. I haven’t seen anything yet. We’re only about a year-and-a-half into the current increase. All we can do is look at inflation at the moment.

That’s all I can tell you.”

Asked whether future minimum wage increases should be tied to the prevailing Bahamian inflation rate, rather than subjecting employers to the $50 per week rise imposed last time, Mr Goudie replied:

Bahamas: 15 years in jail for incest with daughter

A 44-year-old man was sentenced to 15 years in prison this week after he accepted a plea deal for molesting his 15-year-old daughter twice in 2021.

This same man had faced an additional charge of molesting a different underaged girl.

Justice Renae McKay presided as the male defendant, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the minor, was sentenced for two counts of incest.

The defendant faced an additional charge of unlawful sexual intercourse.

The defendant reportedly had unlawful sexual intercourse in New Providence with his underaged daughter on two occasions between August 1, 2021, and October 31, 2021.

Between August 1, 2021 and September 31, 2021, the defendant had unlawful sexual intercourse with another

14-year-old girl.

The trial in this matter commenced last Tuesday.

The defendant reversed his earlier position and pleaded guilty to all three charges in front of the nine-person jury.

The convict was sentenced to 15 years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services for the incest charge and ten years for the unlawful sexual intercourse charge. The sentences will be served concurrently.

Justice McKay recommended that the defendant be enrolled in counselling while on remand. Upon release, the convict will be placed on a two-year probation; a breach would carry a two-year prison term.

Wendawn Miller-Frazer represented the defendant.

Desiree Ferguson, Janet Munnings and Kara Wight served as the prosecutors. (Tribune242)

“Absolutely. I think it would be a good idea in that it would be a regular annual increase, and employers would not get hit with a big increase every two to three years.

“My view is that would just make sense to have an annual review linked to the CPI. I fully agree with that. That’s my personal opinion. That would be easier on everybody to know each year what that is going to be rather than doing it every two to three years.”

Mrs Glover-Rolle said in July that the Government wants to increase the minimum wage again soon. When asked earlier this week about what prompted the change in the administration’s stance, she replied: “We don’t make things happen immediately.

“We have to investigate. We have to analyse. We have to use data to inform our decisions, and this is the process by which we do that considering a minimum wage increase takes us speaking to the stakeholders. The stakeholders are at the table.”

Others, including the trade unions, have argued that this nation needs to go further than the minimum wage and instead focus on the so-called livable wage.

University of The Bahamas (UoB) researchers, in a study produced in 2021, pegged Nassau’s monthly living wage at $2,625 while the equivalent for Grand Bahama was $3,550 per month.

The authors, Lesvie Archer, Olivia Saunders, Bridget Hogg, Vijaya Permual and Brittney Johnson, wrote: “Our gross living wage estimate for New Providence is 26 percent lower than the Grand Bahama living wage estimate, nearly 200 percent higher than the national minimum wage, 127 percent higher than 2013 poverty line and nearly 75 percent higher than the minimum wage hike proposed by a local union.

“Our living wage estimate for Grand Bahama is nearly 300 percent higher than the living wage, 200 percent higher than the 2013 poverty line and 140 percent

higher than the minimum wage hike proposed by a local union.”

The Bahamas’ private sector minimum wage, last increased following VAT’s introduction in 2015, is currently $210 a week.”

The minimum wage, though, is defined differently from the “livable wage” measure employed by the UoB study. It based its work on a model employed by Richard Anker, the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) living wage specialist, who defined a livable wage as one that can sustain a person’s “physical, emotional, social and cultural needs and that of their family beyond mere subsistence”. Food and housing costs, based on a “nutritious diet” and “decent housing”, were factored into the calculations together with other daily living costs, while the research also drew on data from sources such as the 2019 Labour Market Information Newsletter; 2017 Labour Force Report; and 2016 Government of the Bahamas salary book. (Tribune242)

Haitian doctor receives PAHO award

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has awarded Haitian medical practitioner, Dr Jean-Patrick Alfred, of Haiti, with the PAHO Award for Management and Leadership in Health Services 2024.

The award was presented by the President of PAHO’s 61st Directing Council, María Teresa Barán, who is also the Minister of Health of Paraguay, highlighting his career as head of the UEP and his active participation in strengthening the MSPP, as well as his leadership in the development of Haiti’s Unified Health Information System (SISNU).

“As I receive this award, I think of Haiti, a proud and dignified country which, despite titanic challenges, continues to rise again and again. This prize not only reminds me of the immense obstacles we continue to face but also of the progress and victories we have fought so hard to achieve,” Alfred said.

“Our collective struggle for a more resilient, people-centred healthcare system remains at the heart of my commitment,” he added.

The award highlights Alfred’s leadership in developing critical policy initiatives throughout his

professional career, particularly Haiti’s 2012-2022 health plan, which focused on a primary care approach to strengthen the country’s health system, making it more resilient and people-centred.

Alfred is a leading physician, holding a degree in medicine and postgraduate degrees in health systems and services and health policy. In addition, since 2015 he has been the Director of the Studies and Programming Unit (UEP) of the Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP).

His career has been mostly in health administration and teaching, and he has contributed to several research studies.

Through this award, established in 1969, the governments of the Americas recognise outstanding contributions to improving health systems and services, and to programmes, projects, and initiatives with proven impact on access to health care at the national or regional levels.

Previous recipients include Dr Alfredo Espinosa Brito, from Cuba; Dr Carla Romero, from Bolivia; Dr Joanne Liu, from Canada; Dr Reina Roa Rodríguez, from Panama; and Dr Natalia Largaespada, from Belize. (Loop News)

Dr Jean-Patrick Alfred, (centre) receives PAHO award

UK will give sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius

The UK has announced it is giving up sovereignty of a remote but strategically important cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean after more than half a century.

The deal – reached after years of negotiations - will see the UK hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in a historic move.

This includes the tropical atoll of Diego Garcia, used by the US government as a military base for its navy ships and long-range bomber aircraft.

The announcement, made in a joint statement by the UK and Mauritian Prime Ministers, ends decades of often fractious negotiations between the two countries.

The US-UK base will remain on Diego Garcia – a key factor enabling the deal to go forward at a time of growing geopolitical rivalries in the region between Western countries, India, and China.

The deal is still subject to finalisation of a treaty, but both sides have promised to complete it as quickly as possible.

“This is a seminal moment in our relationship and a demonstration of our enduring commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and the rule of law,” the statement from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth read.

The leaders also said they were committed “to ensure the longterm, secure and effective operation of the existing base on Diego Garcia which plays a vital role in regional and global security”.

The treaty will also “address wrongs of the past and demonstrate the commitment of both parties to support the welfare of Chagossians”.

The UK will provide a package of financial support to Mauritius,

including annual payments and infrastructure investment.

Mauritius will also be able to begin a programme of resettlement on the Chagos Islands, but not on Diego Garcia.

There, the UK will ensure operation of the military base for “an initial period” of 99 years.

US President Joe Biden welcomed the “historic agreement”, saying it was a “clear demonstration that through diplomacy and partnership, countries can overcome longstanding historical challenges to reach peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes”.

He said it secured the future of a key military base which “plays a vital role in national, regional, and global security.”

Amongst the Chagossians, opinions are divided. Isabelle Charlot, speaking on BBC Radio 4’s World At One programme, said the deal brought back hopes her

family could return to her father’s island “roots”.

Plans for the Mauritius government to arrange resettlement would mean a “place that we can call home - where we will be free,” she said.

But Frankie Bontemps, a second generation Chagossian in the UK, told the BBC that he felt “betrayed” and “angry” at the news because “Chagossians have never been involved” in the negotiations.

“We remain powerless and voiceless in determining our own future and the future of our homeland”, he said, and called for the full inclusion of Chagossians in drafting the treaty.

In recent years, the UK has faced rising diplomatic isolation over its claim to what it refers to as the British Indian Ocean Territory, with various United Nations bodies, including its top court and general assembly, overwhelmingly siding with Mauritius and demanding

Oil price rise comes at a critical point

The price of oil has jumped 5% after US President Joe Biden said the US was discussing possible strikes by Israel on Iran’s oil industry.

Asked on a visit if he would support Israel striking Iran’s oil facilities, Biden said: “We’re discussing that.”

Iran is the seventh largest oil producer in the world, exporting around half its production abroad, mainly to China.

Since Iran’s missile attack on Israel on Monday, the price of benchmark Brent crude oil has risen 10% to $77 a barrel, although

this remains below levels seen earlier this year.

Any extended rise in energy prices raises the possibility of higher petrol prices and increased gas and electricity bills, pushing up the rate of inflation.

So far this year, weaker demand from China and ample supply from Saudi Arabia have acted to hold down oil prices.

The reaction in oil markets has, so far, been far more muted than, for example, to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

But the escalation of violence in the Middle East and threat of

the UK surrender what some have called its “last colony in Africa”.

The government of Mauritius has long argued that it was illegally forced to give the Chagos Islands away in return for its own independence from the UK in 1968.

At the time, the British government had already negotiated a secret deal with the US, agreeing to lease it the largest atoll, Diego Garcia, for use as a military base.

Britain later apologised for forcibly removing more than 1,000 islanders from the entire archipelago and promised to hand the islands to Mauritius when they were no longer needed for strategic purposes.

But until very recently, the UK insisted that Mauritius itself had no legitimate claim to the islands.

For decades, the tiny island nation of Mauritius struggled to win any serious international support on the issue.

A handful of Chagos islanders, who’d been forced to abandon their homes in the late 1960s and early 70s, repeatedly took the British government to court.

But it was only recently that international opinion began to shift.

African nations began to speak with one voice on the issue, pushing the UK hard on the issue of decolonialisation.

Then Brexit left many European nations reluctant to continue backing the UK’s stance in international forums.

The Mauritian government went on the attack, accusing the UK government of verbal threats.

And the Mauritians began to wage an increasingly sophisticated campaign – at the UN, in courts, and in the media – even landing and planting a flag on the archipelago without British authorisation.

The negotiations that brought about Thursday’s deal began under the previous UK government.

others argue that the Chagos archipelago’s status should not be resolved by outsiders.

A backlash from some voices in the UK can be expected, even though successive Conservative and Labour prime ministers have been working towards the same broad goal.

Tory leadership candidate Tom Tugendhat argued the deal had been “negotiated against Britain’s interest” and it was “disgraceful” that such talks had begun under the previous Conservative government.

He called it a “shameful retreat undermining our security and leaving our allies exposed”, while the former foreign secretary James Cleverly called it a “weak” deal.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said the deal will “address the wrongs against the Chagossians of the past but it looks like it will continue the crimes long into the future”.

“It does not guarantee that the Chagossians will return to their homeland, appears to explicitly ban them from the largest island, Diego Garcia for another century, and does not mention the reparations they are all owed to rebuild their future”, Clive Baldwin, senior legal advisor at HRW said in a statement.

There must be meaningful consultations with the Chagossians, Mr Baldwin said, or the UK, US and now Mauritius will be responsible for “a still-ongoing colonial crime.”

But there can be no doubting the historic significance of this moment.

Half a century or more after the UK relinquished control over almost all its vast global empire, it has finally agreed to hand over one of the very last pieces. It has done so reluctantly, perhaps, but also peacefully and legally.

further action is now stalking the markets.

Of particular concern is whether any escalation could block the Straits of Hormuz, through which a third of oil tanker traffic and a fifth of LNG frozen gas has to pass.

Since Russia’s war with Ukraine began, the world has become more dependent on shipped frozen gas in LNG tankers.

Even if it is Asia that is most physically dependent on the flow of oil and gas out of the Persian Gulf, the immediate price impact of such developments would be significant.

But the timing of this breakthrough reflects a growing sense of urgency in international affairs, not least regarding Ukraine, with the UK keen to remove the Chagos issue as an obstacle to winning more global support, particularly from African nations, with the prospect of a second Trump presidency looming.

The Chagos islanders themselves – some in Mauritius and the Seychelles, but others living in Crawley in Sussex – do not speak with one voice on the fate of their homeland.

Some are determined to return to live on the isolated islands, some are more focused on their rights and status in the UK, while

The remaining British overseas territories are: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Antarctic Territory, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands. There are also two sovereign base areas on Cyprus under British jurisdiction.

Following the Chagos announcement, the governor of the Falklands said the islands are safe in British hands.

“The UK’s unwavering commitment to defend UK sovereignty [of the Falklands] remains undiminished”, Alison Blake said in a statement posted to social media. (BBC)

Chagos Islands were under British control for over a half a century

UK: Policeman feared Chris Kaba would kill, court told

A police marksman shot Chris Kaba dead believing “one or many” officers could be killed as the suspect attempted to escape at “any cost”, a court has heard.

Martyn Blake, who denies murder, shot the 24-year-old in the head through the windscreen of a car during a police stop in Streatham, south London, in September 2022.

Moments before, Mr Kaba had tried to get away by driving forward and then reversing into a police car that had blocked him in, the Old Bailey heard.

Police had been looking for the Audi after its registration was linked to reports of gunshots in Brixton the night before, the jury was told.

‘ARMED POLICE, SHOW ME YOUR HANDS’

Prosecutor Tom Little KC told the jurors they would want to consider the positions of the armed officers around the car and whether they were at risk at the time the fatal shot was fired.

The court was shown bodyworn video from various officers and a graphic reconstruction of the “enforced stop with extraction”.

After the shooting, Mr Blake,

40, provided an account of the incident, saying he opened fire because he feared there was an “imminent threat”.

Recounting events, he said he had got out of his vehicle and moved towards the target, shouting: “Armed police, show me your hands.”

He said: “At this point the driver drove his vehicle at great speed toward myself and (unnamed officer) E156 to escape.

“I had a genuine belief that either of us could be killed and moved right, out of the way.

“The driver then rammed our car, which was behind me, as well as a parked car and stopped, wedged.

“Seeing the car was stopped I went round to the front and again challenged the driver, saying something like, ‘Armed police, stop the vehicle.’”

Mr Blake added: “At this point the driver reversed back at great speed as fast as he could, directly towards my colleagues who were out on foot approaching the vehicle.

“The male had already shown a propensity to use violence and was happy to use any means to escape and I had a genuine-held belief that one or many of my colleagues could be killed by the car, and

Chris Kaba

that the driver would not stop his attempt to escape at any cost.

“I then made the decision to incapacitate the driver due to the imminent threat to my colleagues and took one shot at the driver.

“He immediately slumped and the car stopped.”

Mr Little suggested parts of Mr Blake’s initial account were “exaggerated” and “false”, and that the Metropolitan Police officer’s use of lethal force was not justifiable.

The court heard that officers in an unmarked parked police vehicle spotted the Audi Q in Camberwell, south London, and began following it.

Mr Blake, referred to as NX121, was the navigator in one of six

vehicles that joined the police convoy before a decision was made to stop the Audi.

The court heard an operational firearms commander (OFC) had been concerned the longer they waited, the greater chance the driver would become aware he was being followed.

Mr Little said the OCF was right, as Mr Kaba had told a friend he was being followed in a phone call made shortly before the stop in Kirkstall Gardens where Blake and other armed officers got out of their vehicles.

‘SHOTS FIRED’

Initially, Mr Kaba drove back then accelerated forwards in an unsuccessful attempt to get away,

hitting two police vehicles and a parked car.

The police car behind the Audi responded by moving forwards to close the gap before Mr Kaba reversed into it, jurors were told.

Less than a second later, Mr Blake, who was standing in front of the Audi, opened fire and shot Mr Kaba with a SiG Sauer semiautomatic carbine through the windscreen.

Cries of “shots fired, shots fired” could be heard on the body-worn video.

Mr Kaba was treated by paramedics at the scene before he was taken to hospital where he died just after midnight on 6 September 2022.

The trial continues. (BBC)

Israeli strike on Gaza school that killed 22 targeted one Hamas figure, BBC told

An Israeli air strike that killed multiple children at a former school twelve days ago had been targeting one local Hamas figure, the BBC has been told.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said a Hamas “command and control centre” had been embedded inside the compound in Gaza City, which it targeted in a “precise strike” on 21 September.

It killed 22 people, including 13 children and six women, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The school, closed during the war, had been housing displaced people, the health ministry said.

One young girl, Amal, told the BBC she had been inside the school building when it was hit and saw bodies “torn apart”.

“What have we done as children? We wake up and go to sleep terrified,” she said.

“At least protect the schools; we don’t have schools or homeswhere do we go?”

Sources have told the BBC that one of those killed was a local

meaning many civilians died due to a single main target.

Huda Alhadad lost two children – son Muhammad, 13, and daughter Hanan, 12.

“I was coming from the hallway when the missile fell. I came and found my husband screaming, saying, ‘My children, my children, my children,’” she told the BBC.

“I asked him, ‘Where are they?’ I searched for them and found them under the rubble.”

In the twelve days after the air strike, at least eight more fatal strikes took place in Gaza on school buildings housing displaced families – the latest in a series of attacks on such buildings, which provide little safety. Unicef has said more than 50% of

schools used as shelters in Gaza had been directly hit during the current war, with “devastating consequences for children and families”.

In each of the latest strikes, the IDF released public statements saying the former schools had contained Hamas terrorists or “command and control” centres.

In their public statement about the 21 September strike, the IDF incorrectly named the former school they hit – Al-Zeitoun C –instead identifying another one nearby, Al-Falah.

We confirmed that Al-Zeitoun C was the one that had been hit by speaking to local people, as well as comparing videos of the attack aftermath with satellite imagery.

The Hamas-run Gazan authorities also named it as AlZeitoun C.

The relevant area is in the Al-Zeitoun neighbourhood and includes four distinct schools: AlFalah, and Al-Zeitoun A, B, and C.

Huda lost two of her children in the Israeli air strike on 21 September

Hamas figure,

InterHealth Canada Construction & Services is currently recruiting for Key positions within TCI Hospitals. Successful candidates will be offered excellent packages depending on qualifications and experience.

HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER

- (Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales)

This candidate will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities. Candidates applying for this position are required to possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a managerial capacity with a bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Hospitality.

The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of overseeing and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. Their primary responsibilities will encompass various facets of managing the team, including recruitment, training, and the overall coordination of team schedules, alongside handling stock management, daily operational tasks, waste management ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints, and upholding quality standards and compliance with relevant regulations.

For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941- 2800 Ext 71803.

Salary: $45-$50K (Plus benefits).

HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR

- (Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales)

The Housekeeping Supervisor will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities, working under the direct guidance of the housekeeping manager. It is essential that candidates interested in this role have a minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in Hospitality or an equivalent field, alongside an associated degree.

The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of supervising and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. This candidate will be responsible

for numerous tasks including, but not limited to, conducting weekly and monthly departmental quality audits, managing stock levels and ordering, ensuring all cleaning duties associated with the department are maintained, providing training and development opportunities for staff within their purview to ensure compliance, safety, and excellent customer care, as well as collaborating closely with management and IPC to uphold best practices and excellence in infection control.

For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941- 2800 Ext 71803.

Salary: $35k + (dependent on experience)

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER

- (Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales)

TCIH Facilities Management are seeking an experienced, driven Human Resources Manager to support the established Management Team at both Cheshire Hall and Cockburn Town Medical Centre.

The post, based in Providenciales with scheduled visits to Grand Turk, will encompass management of the following Human Resources elements:

• In conjunction with the Senior Management team, review and development of Corporate Strategy relating to Human Resources

• Review and Development of Human Resources Policies including Staff Welfare, Diversity & Inclusivity and Work Life Balance

• Management of Recruitment & Selection policies and protocols across the business

• Co-ordination of Education Programs, Staff Development and Succession Planning for all Employees

• Delivery of key metrics relating to Key Performance Indicators, Contractual and Regulatory Compliance

• To support the Management Team with further development of mechanisms aimed at talent retention and reduced Staff Churn

Salary: $50k + (dependent on experience)

For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941- 2800 Ext 71803. Appointments will be made based on a successful interview, a positive reference check and a clear Police check for all post. Qualified Belongers will be given first consideration. Apply in writing together with an up to date curriculum vitae to: fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc.

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

BARMAID/BARTENDERS

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PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

GRANDASE CONSTRUCTION

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STONECRAFT SERVICES

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Five Cays, 243-6016

STORE CLERK-$8.00 Hourly Selling products and providing customer service.

CARINE & BELLVUE TRUCKING Five Cays, 243-6016

TRUCK OPERATOR-$8.00 Hourly Transport materials and goods among manufacturing, distribution and retail centers. Inspecting vehicles for mechanical issues relating to safe operation, and basic repair work.

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort + Villas is a contemporary luxury full-service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with minimum Four to Five-Stars Forbes experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring five-star standards and services are continuously delivered.

*VILLA PROJECT ENGINEER

Reports to the Director of Projects and is responsible for providing oversight for overall construction, maintenance and refurbishment projects, planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and control. The Villa Project Engineer will own and manage all aspects of projects to include client relationships, schedules, budgets and profitability through comprehensive project completion. The project manager will develop, refine and update project schedules to ensure all milestones are identified and tracked.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Demonstrate sound structural assessment knowledge and interpretation of design documentation.

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• Project accounting functions including managing the budget, tracking expenses, and minimizing exposure and risk, in order to report to Director of Projects any budgetary savings.

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• Contract and manage the design and execution.

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• Implement, co-ordinate and maintain villa quality assurance programs.

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Bachelor of Engineering Civil Degree with 4-5 years managerial/ supervisory field experience. Three+ years of e

• Proficient with AutoCAD, MATALAB, HEC-RAS and Revit

• Must be able to use Microsoft Project scheduling software, or software of industry equivalent.

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• Excellent organizational skills and the ability manage multiple projects and implement effective solutions while meeting deadlines.

• Must be CPR Certified.

• Hospitality/Hotel engineering management experience is a plus.

• Must have the stamina to work long hours due to Operation’s needs.

• Ability to work flexible schedule including days/weekends/holidays.

Base Range: $35k - $45k per year

*HVAC TECHNICIAN

Must be able to troubleshoot and repair different HVAC systems and maintaining and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment. Identifying maintenance risks on equipment. Must be HVAC certified. Must be able to work with hand and power tools. Work on ladders and lift a minimum of 50 lbs. Must be able to work independently and have troubleshooting skills. To provide the guests and associates with a secure and comfortable environment by maintaining and ensuring that all mechanical systems are operating in accordance with the Wymara standards. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents. Daily monitoring check operations of heat pumps, circulating pumps, check reading temperature. Repair and installation of aircon split type, ceiling type aircon and inverter type unit.

Compensation: $25k - $35k Per Annum.

*HEAD MIXOLOGIST

Oversees daily activities of Indigo + Zest! Bars to provide guidance and leadership to all staff. Responsible to ensure consistent quality of customer service is provided to all guests in accordance with Wymara standards. The Mixologist is responsible for formulating exotic beverage options and the smooth running of the bar(s). Providing a consistent high level of guest service within the department and maximize all sales opportunities for Indigo + Zest! Bars.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

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• Ensure the bar is kept in good running order and deep cleaning and maintenance is performed when necessary.

• Manage the bar’s inventory, perform inventory checks and provide accounts with assistance monthly on inventories levels.

• Maintain bar materials and glassware and notify HOD when re-ordering is necessary.

• Maximizing sales opportunities by upselling where possible.

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ENSURING EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Creates an atmosphere in all food and beverage areas that meets or exceeds guest expectations.

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• Reviews comment cards, guest satisfaction results and other data to identify areas of improvement.

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• Take directions and guidance from managers and pass on information to the team when applicable.

• Always conduct in a manner as to reflect the Wymara Standards and encourage staff to do the same.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

• 8+ years’ experience as Head Mixologist in a 4/5-star establishment.

• Hospitality Management Certification

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• Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software, Micros, open table and Opera).

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• Maintain a good relationship with vendors of Indigo restaurant.

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• International experience preferred.

Compensation: $20k - $26k per annum

*SPA THERAPIST

The Spa Therapist professional massage and body treatments to our guests. They must have a thorough knowledge of numerous massage modalities, possess a general understanding of body treatments and be willing to train in our spa’s specific massage and body treatment offerings. They must possess excellent communication skills and be able to learn the product and service knowledge necessary to effectively provide wellness solutions to meet the needs of our guests. Salary Commission Based.

DIRECTOR OF ROOMS DIVISION

The Director of Rooms is responsible for the consistent delivery of exceptional performance of Rooms Division in both guest experience and financial results, and for the successful management of all internal and external relationships.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Exceptional leadership skills with a proven record of providing consistently high guest experience standards balanced with operational efficiencies.

• Demonstrated success at delivering results through establishment of standard procedures, disciplined coaching and management.

• Provides input into, and executes, strategic plan for assigned department(s) consistent with the strategic vision of the divisions.

• Responsible for preparing and monitoring of fiscal budgets, CAPEX, division operations and marketing strategies to produce both short-term and long-term profitability for Wymara Resort and Villas.

• Participates in the research, development, evaluation and implementation of new products, services, technology and processes to ensure Wymara Resort and Villas competitive position and in anticipation of changing customer needs within the dynamic hospitality environment.

• Ability to perform a myriad of duties with extreme care and attention to detail, while working in a fast-paced and busy environment.

• Pre-opening Experience with proven ability to successfully lead, train motivate, develop staff and processes implementation is essential Specific Job Knowledge, Skill and Ability:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Experienced hospitality executive with minimum 10 years five-star international management success – Caribbean experience desirable with 3-5 years management in each departmental discipline.

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• Thorough knowledge of resort front office and housekeeping procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspects.

• Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a major hotel/resort complex with a Forbes Five Star Rating, LQA & AAA – 5 Diamond Rating

• Proven ability to develop business plans and budgets, and effectively monitor performance to meet objectives

• Energetic, results driven leader with collaborative approach; focused on empowering people; developing skill in others through coaching, training and experiential learning.

• Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software and Opera, Alice, Opentable, Salto system) to prepare reports, employee schedules, inventories, budgets as required.

• Working knowledge of chemicals, fabric care, carpet care, floor and stone care.

• Knowledge of Laundry operations, textiles, fabric care, equipment and housekeeping techniques.

• Must be fluent in English. Additional languages desirable. Base Range: $60k - $77k per year

*ASSISTANT PASTRY COOK

responsible for setting up the work area before baking pastries. They will assist in preparing different types of pastry and dessert items using standard recipes. Responsibilities will include measuring ingredients, mixing doughs and batters, preparing fillings, and decorating finished products. The ideal candidate will have a passion for baking, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. You should be able to follow recipes accurately, work well under pressure, and be willing to learn and grow within the role. Previous experience in a bakery or pastry kitchen is required.

• Provides input into, and executes, the development, implementation, and measurement of guest service standards within assigned department(s), consistent with the company’s established guidelines/ standards.

Compensation: $25k - $30k Per Annum

More than 100 persons intend to pursue new allegations against ‘Diddy’

Sean “Diddy” Combs may soon be facing new allegations from over 100 men and women who’ve obtained legal representation and plan to file civil suits against the embattled media mogul in the coming weeks, according to Houston-based attorney Tony Buzbee.

Buzbee said during a press conference on Tuesday his firm, The Buzbee Law firm along with the AVA Law Group, have been retained by at least 120 individuals “to pursue cases in civil court” against Combs and who contacted them after “claiming to be victimized by” Combs and other individuals or entities.

Some of the cases they intend to file, according to Buzbee, will centre on allegations of violent sexual assault or rape, sexual abuse, facilitating sex with controlled subtance, false imprisonment, compelling prostitution, sexual misconduct, dissemination of video recordings and sexual abuse of minors.

The musician and businessman was indicted on federal charges, including sex trafficking, earlier this month. Combs has pleaded not guilty.

Buzbee said that of the 120 people who’ve retained his firm, half of them are

men and half are women and that 25 of these individuals were minors at the time of the alleged incidents, which they said occurred in Los Angeles, New York and Miami during parties and, at times, music industry-related auditions.

“As Mr. Combs’ legal team has emphasized, he cannot address every meritless allegation in what has become a reckless media circus. That said, Mr. Combs emphatically and categorically denies as false and defamatory any claim that he sexually abused anyone, including minors,”

Erica Wolff, an attorney for Combs, told CNN in a statement on Tuesday. Wolff added that Combs “looks forward to proving his innocence and vindicating himself in court if and when claims are filed and served, where the truth will be established based on evidence, not speculation.”

The firm said it plans to begin filing these cases within the next 30 days as they continue a vetting and collection of evidence process.

More than 55% of the victims “reported this conduct to either authorities, that is the police, or to hospitals,” Buzbee said, of which his firm is actively working to collect the

records of reports made to authorities.

Buzbee also clarified that his firm is not filing a class action lawsuit, rather each case will be filed individually in various states. Combs, he said, will in some cases not be the only defendant cited on the civil suits, as Buzbee says other individuals and entities may also be named based on the claims and the evidence that they’ve collected.

Since last November, Combs has been hit with 12 civil suits, 11 of which directly accuse him of sexual assault. Combs has denied many of the allegations against him and settled one claim, but has not yet responded to all of the lawsuits that remain active.

He is currently incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he is awaiting trial on three criminal sex trafficking and racketeering charges after being indicted by a grand jury. Attorneys for Combs are appealing his detention, seeking his release from jail as he awaits trial.

A source previously told CNN that the majority of accusers who filed civil lawsuits had met with federal investigators during their months-long investigation.

In March, Combs’ residences in Los Angeles and Miami were searched by the

Department of Homeland Security Investigations.

After Combs’ arrest,

authorities said the investigation remains active and ongoing. (CNN)

Pink Floyd sells recorded music catalogue for

British rock band Pink Floyd has reportedly sold its recorded music catalogue, along with its name and likeness rights, to Sony Music for $400 million.

Sources told Variety the

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER JANITRESS

legendary rock band had come to an agreement after decades of fighting among band members. According to the outlet, this deal only includes recorded music rights, not songwriting.

Pink Floyd’s music catalogue is one of the most valuable in contemporary music with albums such as “Dark Side of the Moon,”

“The Wall,” “Wish You Were Here,” “Animals,” “Meddle,” “Piper at the Gates of Dawn” and “More.”

According to the outlet, Sony has spent more than $1 billion on music catalogues, from Bob Dylan to Bruce Springsteen.

Pink Floyd did not immediately respond to FOX Business’ request for comment.

Pink Floyd’s music catalogue has reportedly been in play for years. Variety reported the band nearly

closed a deal in 2022 for $500 million, but infighting among band members killed the deal.

Specifically, Roger Waters’ comments against Israel and Ukraine and being in favour of Russia made it difficult for the deal to close, according to Variety.

In 2022, Pink Floyd released its first new music in almost three decades to raise money for the people of Ukraine. “Hey Hey Rise Up” features Pink Floyd members David Gilmour and Nick Mason, with vocals from Ukrainian singer Andriy Khlyvnyuk of the band BoomBox.

Pink Floyd was founded in London in the mid-1960s and helped forge the U.K. psychedelic scene before releasing influential 1970s albums such as “The Dark Side of the Moon,” “Wish You Were Here” and “The Wall.”

Pink Floyd’s music catalog is one of the most valuable in contemporary music

$400m

The musician and businessman was indicted on federal charges, including sex trafficking, earlier this month

Doctor pleads guilty in Matthew Perry overdose death

A doctor charged in the drug-related death of actor Matthew Perry has pleaded guilty in the case. Dr Mark Chavez changed his plea to guilty in a Los Angeles court to a charge of conspiring to distribute

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Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

UNIVERSAL LANDSCAPING Tel: 341-3426 Airport Road

GARDENER $8.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

MUGNARDINE PIERRE Tel: 241-2092

BABYSITTER $8.00

Caring for my daughter, monitor him after school, cook, clean, wash and cook

MIDJINE CLOTHING STORE

Blue Hills Tel: 342-4785

LABOURER $8.00

Cleaning the store, dress mannequins, and maintain the store

the surgical anaesthetic ketamine.

Chavez, 54, operated a ketamine clinic and sold ketamine lozenges to Dr Salvador Plasencia, who supplied them to Perry, the star of NBC sitcom Friends.

Chavez is one of five people charged in Perry’s death. The 54-year-old actor was found dead in his backyard jacuzzi in southern California in October 2023.

A post-mortem examination found a high concentration of the drug ketamine in his blood and determined “acute effects” of the substance had killed him.

Ketamine is used as a treatment for depression, anxiety and pain.

In his plea agreement, Chavez admitted he obtained ketamine from both his former clinic and a wholesale distributor through a fraudulent prescription.

Prosecutors said Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa,

worked with the two doctors to provide the actor with more than $50,000 (£38,000) of ketamine in the weeks before his death.

According to the indictment, the two medical doctors exchanged texts discussing how much they could charge Perry for vials of the drug, with one message reading: “I wonder how much this moron will pay.”

The plea allows Chavez to plead guilty to a lesser charge for his co-operation in the investigation, though he could still face up to 10 years in prison.

“He has accepted responsibility. He is cooperating,” his attorney told the court.

Chavez has turned over his passport and agreed to surrender his medical licence immediately.

He is free on bail until sentencing on 2 April 2025. (BBC)

JANITOR

The individual should meet the following requirements: Be able to work in and around the school also the upkeep of the premises. Salary starts at $8.00 per hour. Working hours are 7:00am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday

Applications can be hand delivered to B.E.S.T. Institute Office, 250 Bay Road, Blue Hills, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. or email: bestinstitute@tciway.tc; bestinstitute.payments@gmail.com

Tel: 649-941-4802; Cell: 649-231-4802 Copy all enquiries to the Labour Board.

Mark Chavez pleaded guilty on Wednesday

2 CLEANERS

LABOURER

Cleaning

Salary:

An Application, REGISTERED PR 17867, by APOLLO ENTERPRISES LIMITED for DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A COMMERCIAL RESTAURANT WITH INDOOR AND OUTDOOR DINING & A BICYCLE RENTAL SHOP ON BLOCK & PARCEL 60905/156 WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY 1.27 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED AT LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES.

THE PARCEL IS ZONED AS RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM DENSITY AND THE PROPOSED COMMERCIAL USE IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE CURRENT ZONING.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

CIMA/ACA

An opportunity exists for a financial advisory manager who is a professionally qualified chartered management or financial accountant with a minimum of six years post graduation professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm. This individual is required to manage complex advisory engagements from planning through to completion including preparing detailed reports and presentations and generally leading the engagement team. They will report to the senior managers and directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$60,000 to US$80,000 per annum. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

If you wish to be considered for this opportunity please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either:

Gary Brough or The Labour Commissioner Baker Tilly Labour Office

P.O. Box 357

Butterfield Square

18 The Village at Grace Bay Providenciales Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Turks & Caicos Islands

Or email your particulars to gary.brough@bakertilly.tc

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

Is seeking suitable candidates for the following position:

EARLY CHILDHOOD DAYCARE WORKER

• Applicant should possess a Day-Care Certificate plus two years’ experience OR 6 or more years’ experience working with children in a daycare and/or classroom setting at a known institution(s).

• Applicant must be knowledgeable with basic teaching principles and skills for 2- to 3-year-old children.

• Applicant must be energetic and creative and a good team player.

• Applicants should be a born-again Christian, preferably of the Baptist Faith

B&S COOLING SERVICES

AIR CONDITION TECHNICIAN

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• With 5 years of experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing commercial refrigeration systems is required.

• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles and components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and controls.

• Ability to identify and resolve issues related to refrigeration systems in a timely and efficient manner.

• Adherence to safety protocols and practices to ensure a secure work environment.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide exceptional customer service.

• For the first-time work Permit Holder: Wages start at $770.per week.

• This position is for a work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Primary responsibilities will include inspecting, repairing, and maintaining commercial refrigeration systems. This includes diagnosing issues, replacing defective components, and conducting regular preventative maintenance tasks. You will also be required to keep accurate records, order necessary parts, and collaborate with other technicians or contractors as needed. Overall, your expertise will ensure optimal functionality and performance of the company’s refrigeration systems.

HANDYMAN

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform various maintenance and repair tasks.

• Respond to emergency repair requests in a timely manner.

• Keep track of supplies and ensure the availability of necessary tools.

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and guidelines.

• Assist with general tasks and projects as needed.

• Possess a strong set of problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

• The salary for this position is $9.00 per hour

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

• Capable of working with children with multi-cultural background.

• Salary would be negotiable based on qualifications and experience

This position is available to Turks & Caicos Islanders and/or work permit renewal holders.

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

Is seeking suitable candidates for the following position:

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS

• Applicants should possess a first degree in education and or Teacher’s diploma with 3 or more years of experience.

• Applicants must be energetic and creative and a good team player.

• Applicants with experience in (CPEA) Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment would be an asset.

• All applicants should be a born-again Christian preferably of the Baptist Faith.

• Capable of teaching students with a multi-cultured background.

• Have adequate knowledge and experience of working with the Primary School Curriculum of the TCI Education system.

• Salary $24,000.00 to $35,400.00 per annum.

This position is available to Turks & Caicos Islanders and/or work permit renewal holders.

VACANCIES

$8.00

Caring for my daughter, monitor him after school, cook, clean, wash and cook EASY

$8.00

Unload containers, help customers with heavy lifting and help transport goods.

CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

UNIVERSAL LANDSCAPING 341-3426

Airport Road

$8.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

MUGNARDINE PIERRE 241-2092

BABYSITTER

$8.00

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction o the property

Turtle Cove, La vista Azul 244-6731

$15.00

Installing computer, routers and other hardware, updating & repairing existing system

MIDJIE BON A PETITE RESTAURENT

Airport Road 342-7897 LABOURER

$8.00

Wash dishes, pots, take grocery out the van daily keeping the kitchen clean, pick up waste.

EVERGREEN LANDSCAPING

Long Bay’ 331-7188 LABOURER

$9.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

LUCKSOM FLEURIMOND

231-6466

Blue Hills

Caring for my daughter, monitor him after school, cook, clean, wash and cook

MIDJINE CLOTHING STORE

Blue Hills 342-4785

LABOURER

$8.00

Cleaning the store, dress mannequins, and maintain the store

ROGELENE DORVIL 341-3436

Five Cay

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my children, bath them, feed them, monitor them, wash, cook and iron

LUCKSON FLEURIMOND

Blue Hills 231-6466

CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste

H G MAINTENANCE COMPANY 342-075

Blue hills HELPER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

COURT REPORTER

College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based.

LABOURER

2 MAINTENANCE WORKERS

A housekeeper/Server is required for a Luxury Villa. Applicant is required to perform a variety of housekeeping duties including but not limited to the following: -

• Maintaining proper inventory of linen and amenities

• Performing a variety of cleaning details such as vacuuming, mopping, surface cleaning, dusting, changing and laundering linen.

• Ensure that rooms in villa is cared for and inspected according to company standards

• Notify Villa Manager of any damages

• Deal with any request and or complaints in a professional manner and patience.

• Must be committed to working as a part of the team

• Must have the initiative to work with minimal supervision

• Must be willing to perform any other duty assigned by Supervisor

• Must follow directions both written and verbally

• Must be honest and confidential

• Must be a good communicator

• Attention to detail and some customer

and service are required.

BIG BLUE COLLECTIVE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE WATERSPORTS INDUSTRY

#2 Marina Street, Leeward Marina, Providenciales

Big Blue Collective is looking for Turks and Caicos Islanders with outgoing personalities and suitable watersports skills to join a team of knowledgeable and experienced guides to conduct educational and environmentally conscious ecotours, scuba diving, boat charters and kite instruction throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. The following positions are available:

BOAT CAPTAIN

Seeking a qualified boat captain with a minimum of 3-5 years of tourism experience, preferably on power and/or sailing catamarans. A valid captain’s license (e.g., USCG 100 Ton, RYA Powerboat or Coastal Skipper, and/or TCI Boat master certificate), a current STCW certification and First Aid/CPR certification are all required. Strong navigational skills, excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills are required as well as a passion for delivering outstanding customer service and creating memorable experiences. The ability to handle the physical demands of the job, including lifting, bending, and being on your feet for extended periods as well as working weekends and holidays is essential. Proficiency and familiarity with vessel maintenance is a plus. Knowledge of local waters, weather patterns, and points of interest is also highly desirable. For safety preference will be given to boat captains with Dive Master or Scuba Instructor certification.

Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions are available. Salary range: $200 to $250+ per day plus gratuities and monthly service charge. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTORS & DIVE MASTERS

Seeking qualified PADI Dive Instructors and Dive Masters to conduct dive courses and tours. Applicants must have a minimum 2 years of teaching and/or guiding experience and experience with high end vessels and clientele a must. Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with professional boating experience or who hold a TCI Captain’s license. Other duties include conducting snorkel tours, paddle eco tours and dive equipment maintenance. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week, must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions available. Salary range: $110

to $200 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed monthly service charge. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

KITE BOARDING INSTRUCTORS

Seeking qualified IKO kite boarding instructors to teach kite boarding courses with minimum 2 years teaching experience. Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with extended teaching experience. Other duties include assisting with sales and conducting kite tours and other watersports activities offered by the company. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. Must be willing to work long days in the sun, weekends and holidays.

Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions open. Salary range: 25-30% of course fee (course rate $225 per hour) plus gratuities. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

ECO-TOUR GUIDES & MARINE BIOLOGISTS

Seeking enthusiastic individuals to join the Big Blue eco-tour team who have a passion for the ocean and a genuine interest in preserving the environment and marine education. Suitable candidates must be a strong swimmer and have some prior experience kayaking, standup paddleboarding and snorkeling. Additional training will be provided but applicants must be fluent in English and have the personality for high end customer service. Preference will be given to those with a degree or background in Marine Biology and Marine or Environmental Sciences as well as scuba diving qualifications and experience. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. Applicant should be strong, energetic, and reliable.

Positions are currently held by belongers and work permit holders. Specifically seeking for belongers. Interested applicants should apply to the email address below. Salary range: $125-$175 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed service charge.

NOTICE OF LOST LAND CERTIFICATE

Whereas, TRACY REBECCA SMITH, as personal representative of WASHINGTON VALETINE SMITH of North Caicos has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) registered in the name of WASHINGTON VALETINE SMITH was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

Take that I, Lasana Murray, Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 5th day of July, 2024

Publicized by Order Registrar of Lands.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

EXPRESS

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

NATURE OF POSITION:

• Driving to the job site.

• Inspecting trucks, cranes, bulldozers, and other heavy equipment for proper performance.

• Diagnosing faults using computerized testing equipment.

• Adjusting equipment and replacing faulty parts.

• Repairing damaged equipment parts.

• Cleaning, lubricating, and conducting routine services on heavy-duty vehicles.

• Cleaning and servicing of machine attachments like winches, blades, and side booms.

• Performing major repair work when necessary.

• Consulting with other mechanics on smaller jobs.

• Reporting damaged or faulty equipment to management.

• Understanding of a/c Diagnostics and Repairs.

Must possess suitable mechanic background (Degree preferred) as well of experience with in all aspects of automotive mobile services/ repaired industry. Must hold a valid driving license for 3 years minimum.

SALARY: With experience and qualifications salary range $15-$25 per hour. Must have own tools

NOTICE

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS, 2021

An Application, REGISTERED PR 17739, by THE POINT LTD for DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A FULL SERVICE RESORT INCLUDING A SEVEN STOREY BEACHFRONT CONDO- HOTEL COMPRISING THIRTYEIGHT (38) CONDO UNITS WITH SIXTY-EIGHT (68) KEYS & 110 BEDROOMS, TWO POOLS, RESTAURANT, BEACH AMENITIES, SEMI SUNKEN CARPARK & SUPPORT FACILITIES & FOUR- TWO STOREY POOL LOFTS COMPRISING FOUR KEYS & FOUR BEDROOMS.

SIXTEEN ONE & HALF STOREY GARDEN CASITAS COMPRISING 16 KEYS AND THIRTY-TWO BEDROOMS, RECEPTION, SPA, RETAIL & OFFICES, GYM, TWO TENNIS COURTS, KIDS CLUB WITH POOL LAUNDRY AND MAINTENANCE BUILDING, SERVICE YARD & STAFF GUEST PARKING ON BLOCK & PARCEL 60905/30,31,32,47,48,51 ,102,103,153 WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY 9.62 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED AT LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board

DROP OFF RESUMES/CV AT THE OFFICE LOCATED ON P.O BOX 1125 SOUTH DOCK RD. OR AT LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN PROVIDENCIALES OR EMAIL: JAMES@EXPRESSEQUIPMENTJCB.COM Belongers only need apply

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

NATURE OF POSITION;

• Driving to the job site.

• Inspecting trucks, cranes, bulldozers, and other heavy equipment for proper performance.

• Diagnosing faults using computerized testing equipment.

• Adjusting equipment and replacing faulty parts.

• Repairing damaged equipment parts.

• Cleaning, lubricating, and conducting routine services on heavy-duty vehicles.

• Cleaning and servicing of machine attachments like winches, blades, and side booms.

• Performing major repair work when necessary.

• Consulting with other mechanics on smaller jobs.

• Reporting damaged or faulty equipment to management.

• Understanding of A/C Diagnostics and Repairs

• Must possess suitable technician background (Degree preferred) as well of experience with in all aspects of automotive mobile services/repaired industry.

• Must hold a valid driving license for 3 years minimum

• Salary: With experience and qualifications salary range $15-$25 per hour. Must have own tools.

• Drop off resumes/cv at the office located at 12 South Dock Rd. or at Labour Department in Providenciales or email: james@expressequipmentjcb.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Desire to make Aviation your Career? A company that trains, develops and promotes from within? TCA Handling Flight Services Ltd with over 30th years serving American Airlines is the organization for you, we are currently seeking passionate, committed individuals with a great personality to fill the positons of:

AIRLINE ATTENDANTS/ CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENTS

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Provides friendly service to travelers

• Communicates with travelers by furnishing information regarding fares, schedules, routings, flights and availability of space.

• Answers travelers’ inquiries regarding flight arrivals, delays, cancellations, flight irregularities, facilities, and other general information.

• Works in a highly organized, restrictive environment requiring extended periods of time at a fixed work position

• Utilizes computerized system.

• Attends initial and ongoing training (classroom and/or on -the-job), and keeps current and proficient on knowledge, information, and equipment that is pertinent to the job.

• May perform other job duties as directed by Management.

BAGGAGE HANDLERS / SECURE CLEAN AGENTS

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Loading and unloading aircrafts in accordance with the instructions of the crew chief.

• To ensure that all bags are accounted for by the triple A system or any other system that the company may be using.

• The unloading and clean-up of any kind of waste from the aircraft.

• Help in the lifting of travelers that is immobilize, up and down the aircraft ensuring a safe path at all times.

• Able to fluently read, write, speak and understand English

• Able to work in stressful situation and tight time constraints.

• Responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the ramp at all time

• Responsible for accurate and careful handling of customer baggage

• Set up ramp and storage of equipment and baggage.

• Interviewing of Travelers

• Searching of Aircrafts

• Service aircraft as needed (e.g. aircraft lavatories, potable water and any commissary items).

• May perform other job duties as directed by Management.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Highly trainable and a quick learner

• Must be able to work long hours, weekends, Public Holidays and varying schedule

• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50lbs repeatedly

• Ability to work with a diverse team

• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Must have a clean Police Record

• Must have a valid Turks & Caicos Driver’s license (applicable to Baggage Handlers)

• Valid Passport

• Must be able to travel regional and internationally

Rate per hour for above positions: $9.00

GSE MECHANIC

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Inspect, maintain, and modify ground equipment.

• Service equipment with fuel, water, oil, hydraulic fluid, and compressed air.

• Responsible for repairs and maintenance of all ground support equipment including, but not limited to, Tugs, Belt loaders, Push backs Conveyors, Ground power units, Air start units, air-condition units, Baggage carts, motorized/manual Air stairs, Turbo way and Golf carts.

• Inspects ground support equipment and their components for the purpose of ensuring safety and identifying necessary repairs and providing an ongoing program of preventative maintenance

• Responds to emergency calls for ground support equipment assistance.

• Troubleshoot, repair, overhaul, and modify ground equipment.

• Diagnose problems using test equipment and applicable manuals.

• Remove, test, repair or replace components and accessories such as carburetors, governors, air and oil cleaners, ignition points and auditory sensors.

• Check and adjust tolerance of valves, bearings, cams, clutches, and drive shafts.

• Operate and test ground equipment for performance assessment.

• Replace bearings, bushings, shafts, end plates, brushes, springs, coils, armatures, push rods, valves, manifolds, tubing, hose, and wiring as required.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have a Degree and/or a Level (3) Diploma in Vehicle Repairs

• Must have at least six (6) years’ experience in automotive

• Must be able to conduct apprenticeship programme

• Must possess a valid driver’s license

• Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Ability to operate equipment used in semiskilled trades, power and hand tools, etc.

Salary Scale: $36,000.00 to $42,000.00 per annum based on qualification and experience

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort + Villas is a contemporary luxury full-service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with minimum Four to Five-Stars Forbes experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring five-star standards and services are continuously delivered.

*FOOD AND BEVERAGE ADMINISTRATOR/ EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR:

To provide organizational and administrative support to the Food & Beverage Department, both front of house and culinary, and the timely and efficient execution of assigned office and business procedures. He/she supports Executives in day-to-day tasks in an organized and highly effective manner. Maintain and organize documents, filing, sorting, and distribution. Serves as a role model for the team to comply with Hotel standards and policies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Complete administrative functions as detailed by the Director of F&B

• Assisting in all operational and administrative aspects of the Kitchen and front of house.

• Access, analyses, distribute, and file the daily flow of information to and from the F&B Director office.

• Manage the Food and beverage calendar

• Assist by creating the daily Market list for the kitchen and support monthly inventory control.

• Assist in recipe costing.

• Assist with the compilation of new menus and beverage lists

• Knowledge of hotel events, hours of operation and in-house guests along with menu offerings of all F&B outlets.

• Liaise with vendors on all F&B purchasing matters including sourcing, costing and reporting

• Handle the restaurant reservations

• Handle the guests’ emails and telephone communications

• Handle the private events or private chef dinners or special occasions communication

• Act as the hub of the F&B department, supplying and collecting information, co-ordinate, response and performing a backup role for the Executive Chef and Director F&B

• Perform any other reasonable duties as required by the Director of food and beverage and Executive Chef from time to time.

• Work proactively and efficiently on inter-departmental communication within and beyond the F&B division to promote a climate of teamwork and enthusiasm.

• Follow up accordingly on the produced reports to achieve an immaculate environment.

• Ensure consistent compliance with the operating policies and procedures for the kitchen department.

• At all times maintain proper etiquette while interacting with internal and external customers.

• Monitor and follow through on any requirements of VIP guests who are dining in the Restaurants as well as for special dietary requirements.

• Support the team to create specific WOW moments to surprise and delight guests in the Restaurants in cooperation with the Chef de Cuisine/Jr. Chef de Cuisine and Restaurant manager.

• Support the departmental trainer on departmental learning and development needs for the colleagues in the kitchen.

• If necessary, communicate rules & regulations to all colleagues by using the Colleague Handbook and any other appropriate documents.

• Support to all colleagues at any time and works openly and assist other colleagues when if required.

• Support on all trainings in accordance with the applicable standards.

• Support banquet/events when if required.

• Attend and participate in all required meetings and training as scheduled.

• Maintain complete knowledge of all F&B services, outlets and hotel services/ features

• Liaise with other departments ensuring communication and the resolution of problems

• Contribute ideas and suggestions to enhance operational procedures in the Hotel

• To work efficiently and effectively in meeting deadlines and delivering quality work

• To keep positive relations with suppliers and other external clients

• Assist F&B outlet managers in their operations within peak times when needed

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

• Degree or Higher National Diploma in Hospitality/Hotel/Business Management is preferred.

• A minimum 3 years’ experience working as a coordinator or as an administrative assistant.

• Have strong administrative skills and can handle telephone calls and written correspondence.

• Ability to work long hours with a strong focus on administrative excellence.

• Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Outlook and good typing skills

• Familiar with restaurant point of sales is preferred.

• Excellent interpersonal skills to build positive relations with F&B team and across divisions.

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks

• Perform job with attention to details and the ability to organize and handle multiple tasks.

• Ability to set up and maintain paper and electronic filing systems for records, correspondence.

• Knowledge of all culinary procedures and standards is preferred.

• Ability to understand effective approaches of communication with different individuals.

• Able to communicate clearly with peers and superiors.

• Outstanding communication skills in English, both written and verbal

• Able to compose, type, and distribute meeting notes, routine correspondence, and reports.

• Ability to effectively and efficiently handle multiple, simultaneous, and complex tasks and projects

• Knowledge of industry standards, products, and procedures

• High level of logical, organizational, and accuracy skills

• Willing to work on a flexible schedule and holidays

• Highly service-minded and solution oriented

• Must have excellent attention to details, and extensive service knowledge Compensation: $30k - $35k per annum

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

Is looking for:

LABOURER(S) – (5)

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary $8.00 to $9.00 /per Hour.

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

WAREHOUSE HELPER

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary $8.00/per Hour.

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

PRODUCE STOCKER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and unloading Container

• Knowledge on Produce products and sanitary methods

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

• Being able to work at heights.

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends & holidays.

• Salary starts at $9.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal & for first time work permit Application.

SUNNY FOOD BLUE HILLS

IS NOW HIRING:

LABOURERS (6)

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary $8.00 to $10.00 /per Hour.

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

FROZEN FOOD PICKERS /STOCKERS

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends & holidays

• Loading and unloading Container

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20digrees

• Rate per hour $9.00

CLEANERS (2)

• Perform cleaning duties at the store

• Dust, sweep, mop, stores

• Maintain cleanliness of restrooms

• Restock supplies in the cleaning area

• Dispose of waste in trash receptacles

• Adhere to safety guidelines and ensure safe usage of cleaning supplies

• Manage time effectively to complete all tasks

• Report any necessary repairs or replacements.

• For first-time work permit.

• Rate per hour $8.00

REFRIGERATOR TECHNICIAN

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5 years’ experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing commercial refrigeration systems is required.

• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles and components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and controls.

• Ability to identify and resolve issues related to refrigeration systems in a timely and efficient manner.

• Adherence to safety protocols and practices to ensure a secure work environment.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide exceptional customer service.

• Salary for this position is $9.00 per hour.

CLEANER

CARPENTER

DOMESTIC WORKER

Providenciales LABOURER

Cleaning outside of home. New, $8.00 Hourly Contact: 242-8792

LINDANIECE ROBINSON Blue Hills, Providenciales CLEANER

General cleaning duties. New, $8.00 Hourly Contact: 242-8792

S&F WHOLESALE CASH & CARRY LTD.

G RAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS. CONTACT NO:

• This position is for work permit holders.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Primary responsibilities will include inspecting, repairing, and maintaining commercial refrigeration systems. This includes diagnosing issues, replacing defective components, and conducting regular preventative maintenance tasks. You will also be required to keep accurate records, order necessary parts, and collaborate with other technicians or contractors as needed. Overall, your expertise will ensure optimal functionality and performance of the company’s refrigeration systems.

LABOURERS (2)

• Responsible for doing Manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary starts at $8.00 to $10.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

STORE CLERK

• Packing shelves and arranging displays for promotion

• Assisting in stock takes.

• Must be active and occasionally lift 50lb.

• Must work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary for this position is $8.00 per hour.

FROZEN FOOD PICKER / STOCKER SUPERVISOR

• Provide the bulk of the customer service outside of the check stands.

• Supervise stockers with stocking, unloading delivery trucks, and organizing stockrooms.

• Pick items for the customer’s order

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20digrees

• Salary for this position is $9.00 per hour.

Interested applicants can email their resume to jobstci@alliedcaribbean.net or send their resume to the Labour Board. Belongers need only to apply. Email your resume at jobstci@alliedcaribbean.net.

Interested Belongers are encouraged to submit their resume to the Labour Department.

STOCKER SUPERVISOR

• Provide the bulk of the customer service outside of

• Supervise stockers with stocking , unloading delivery trucks and organizing stockrooms.

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach ,stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Stock the shelves with frozen product and fill it back up when it sells

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20digrees

• Rate per hour $9.00 to $11.00

BUTCHERS

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale.

• Cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Performing quality inspections on meats and other products.

• Rate per hour $8.00 to $11.00

WAREHOUSE SUPERVISORS

• Achieving high levels of customer satisfaction through excellence in receiving, identifying,

• dispatching and assuring quality of goods

• Measuring and reporting the effectiveness of warehousing activities and employees performance

• Organizing and maintaining inventory and storage area

• Rate per hour $9.50

STORE CLERKS

• Handles a variety of customer inquiries.

• Improve a customer's experience.

• Complete transactions, process returns, issue rain checks and answer any questions a customer has.

• Rate per hour $8 to $10.00

REQUIREMENTS:

• Able to lift 50 pounds

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

• The ability to work in a wet and/or cold environment

• (Minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius)

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

• A positive attitude. Show up on time

• Only call out sick on very rare occasions when you are really sick

• Being flexible on what days and hours you can work

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

WORKER

SKY SPRAY

CLEANER

LABOURER

LABOURER

Cleaning

CONTACT:

ELITE GAMING LTD.

GENERAL MANAGER

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

GM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Responsible for staff development and training programs.

• Responsible for all marketing strategies, development and implementation.

PREMIER SOLUTIONS

FLAMINGO PARK

SALARY - STARTING $18,000 PER ANNUM. DAYS WORKED - MONDAY TO FRIDAY CONTACT - PREMIERSOLUTIONSTC@GMAIL.COM/ +1

DATABASE DESIGNER AT PREMIER SOLUTIONS

We are looking to recruit a Database Designer whose responsibilities will be the strategic development and maintenance of digital libraries, data reporting and analytics for online statistics and data modeling, and development of multi-channel design assets. The successful candidate must have technical experience in working with system infrastructures, business intelligence software, brand development and demonstrate advanced design skills with digital asset creation for multi-channel roll-out.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Must have bachelor’s degree in Multi-disciplinary Design or closely related fields with 5+ years experience in managing large database systems and coordinating multiple digital libraries.

• Working experience of 3+ years in data reporting and analytics for business related statistics and data modeling.

• Essential project experience with website development and consultation skills with proficient knowledge of CSS, HTML5 and templating engines.

• Integration of database elements with client assets and deployment experience in Linux and FreeBSD environments.

• Experience of following W3C web standards to address accessibility specifications.

• Analytical and project management experience of multiple digital product libraries as a Product Coordinator.

• Advanced working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud Suite in particular UI/UX apps and Design/Layout apps.

• Experience in corporate brand development and multi-channel strategy roll-out of new creative digital and non-digital assets.

• Experience with billing, tracking, invoicing and client management.

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

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

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

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

REQUIREMENTS

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

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

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

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

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

• Ability to read, analyze and interpret data.

• Ability to provide guidance and leadership to senior management.

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

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

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

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

annually.

Assisting with ongoing construction on building my home, being a helper to mason work, carpentry work.

NADIA VIRGULUS

Stammer Run, blue Hills

242-1253

LABOURER

$8.00

Assisting with the ongoing construction of my home, such as assist with mason, carpenter, plumbing and tile work

NATHALIE A. SANT JUSTE

344-6734

Blue Hills

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my daughter, monitor him after school, cook, clean, wash and cook

EASY SHOP

Five Cays

244-4857

LABOURER

$8.00

Unload containers, help customers with heavy lifting and help transport goods.

EDON TURENNE

344-2018

Blue hills

LABOURER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction o the property

STARFISH MANAGEMENT

Turtle Cove, La vista Azul 244-6731

IT TECHNICIAN

$15.00

Installing computer, routers and other hardware, updating & repairing existing system

MIDJIE BON A PETITE

RESTAURENT

Airport Road 342-7897

LABOURER

$8.00

Wash dishes, pots, take grocery out the van daily keeping the kitchen clean, pick up waste.

EVERGREEN LANDSCAPING

Long Bay’

331-7188

LABOURER

$ 9.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking,

mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

LUCKSOM FLEURIMOND

231-6466

Blue Hills CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

UNIVERSAL LANDSCAPING

341-3426

Airport Road GARDENER

$8.00

soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting

MUGNARDINE PIERRE

241-2092

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my daughter, monitor him after school, cook, clean, wash and cook

MIDJINE CLOTHING STORE

Blue Hills 342-4785

LABOURER

$ 8.00

Cleaning the store, dress mannequins, and maintain the store

ROGELENE DORVIL 341-3436

Five Cay

DOMESTIC WORKER

$ 8.00

Caring for my children, bath them, feed them, monitor them, wash, cook and iron

LUCKSON FLEURIMOND

Blue Hills 231-6466

CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste

H G MAINTENANCE COMPANY 342-075 Blue hills HELPER

$8.00

SCUBA INSTRUCTOR/

Whereas, SAMUEL REO SWANN JR., as personal representative of the estate of SAMUEL REO SWANN SNR., has declared that the Land Certificate for the above-mentioned title number registered in the name of SAMUEL REO SWANN SNR.was inadvertently has been irretrievably lost.

Take that I, Lasana Murray, Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 20th day of September, 2024

Publicized by Order Registrar of Lands

Whereas, PHILLIP CLEOPHAS PADDINGTON SWANN, as Administrator of the estate of PHILLIP BERRYMORE SWANN deceased, has declared that the Land Certificate for the above-mentioned title number registered in the name of PHILLIP BERRYMORE SWANN was inadvertently has been irretrievably lost.

Take that I, Lasana Murray, Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 25th day of September, 2024

CARPENTER

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Momentous Ltd. is seeking a qualified individual for the position of Chief Financial Officer. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills test. This position is currently occupied by a work permit holder. Qualified Turks Islander applicants are invited to forward resumes to the Labour Board or apply at www.momentous.com.

Salary: $60,000

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

● Strong academic record required. Must have both CPA & CMA designations plus a BSc from top-tier University

● Must have over 5+ years of experience in domain name accounting management

● Must have over 5+ years of experience accounting related to ICANN accredited companies

● Must have over 3+ years of experience in cryptocurrency transaction entries

● Must have over 3+ years of experience in blockchain inquiries and transaction auditing

● Must have over 5+ years of experience with Microsoft Dynamics GP

● Must have over 5+ years of experience with NetSuite

● Must have ability to travel globally

● Must be fluent (Written & Oral) in English

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

DOMESTIC WORKER

CLEANER

CARETAKER

CLEANER

2 HAIRSTYLISTS

Science & Technology

The asteroid that killed the dinosaurs was not alone

The huge asteroid that hit Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago was not alone, scientists have confirmed.

A second, smaller space rock smashed into the sea off the coast of West Africa creating a large crater during the same era.

It would have been a “catastrophic event”, the scientists say, causing a tsunami at least 800m high to tear across the Atlantic ocean.

Dr Uisdean Nicholson from Heriot-Watt University first found the Nadir crater in 2022, but a cloud of uncertainty hung over how it was really formed.

Now Dr Nicholson and his colleagues are sure that the 9km depression was caused by an asteroid hurtling into the seabed.

They cannot date the event exactly, or say whether it came before or after the asteroid which left the 180km-wide Chicxulub

crater in Mexico. That one ended the reign of the dinosaurs.

But they say the smaller rock also came at the end of the Cretaceous period when they went extinct. As it crashed into Earth’s atmosphere, it would have formed a fireball.

“Imagine the asteroid was hitting Glasgow and you’re in Edinburgh, around 50 km away. The fireball would be about 24 times the size of the Sun in the sky - enough to set trees and plants on fire in Edinburgh,” Dr Nicholson says.

An extremely loud air blast would have followed, before seismic shaking about the size of a magnitude 7 earthquake.

Huge amounts of water probably left the seabed, and later cascaded back down creating unique imprints on the floor.

It is unusual for such large asteroids to crash out of our solar

system on course for our planet within a short time of each other.

But the researchers don’t know why two hit Earth close together.

The asteroid that created the Nadir crater measured around 450500m wide, and scientists think it hit Earth at about 72,000km/h.

The nearest humans have come to this scale of event was the Tunguska event in 1908 when a

Scientists store human genome on ‘memory crystal’ that could survive billions of years

Scientists in the United Kingdom have stored the entire human genome on a “5D memory crystal,” in the hope that it could be used in the future as a blueprint to bring humanity back from extinction.

The crystal, which was developed by a team of researchers at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre, could also be used to create a record of plant and animal species faced with extinction.

It can hold up to 360 terabytes of information for billions of years and can withstand extreme conditions, including freezing, fires, direct impact force, cosmic radiation and temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Celsius, the university said in a press statement published Thursday.

In 2014, the crystal was awarded the Guinness World Record for “most durable digital storage material.”

Kazansky’s team used ultrafast lasers to inscribe the human genome data into voids as small as 20 nanometers (a nanometer is about one-billionth of a meter).

They describe the data storage on the crystal as 5D because the information is translated into

The crystal features a visual key, intended to explain what it contains to whoever finds it

five different dimensions of its nanostructures — their height, length, width, orientation and position.

“The 5D memory crystal opens up possibilities for other researchers to build an everlasting repository of genomic information from which complex organisms like plants and animals might be restored should science in the future allow,” said

Peter Kazansky, a professor of optoelectronics, who led the team at Southampton.

The team had to consider who – or what – would retrieve the information, so far off into the future.

It could be an intelligence (species or machine) – or it could be found in a future so distant that no frame of reference would exist for it. To help whoever finds it, the researchers included a visual key.

“The visual key inscribed on the crystal gives the finder knowledge of what data is stored inside and how it could be used,” said Kazansky.

50-metre asteroid exploded in the skies above Siberia.

The Nadir asteroid was about the size of Bennu, which is currently the most hazardous object orbiting near Earth.

Scientists say the most probable date that Bennu could hit Earth is 24 September 2182, according to Nasa. But it is still just a probability of 1 in 2,700.

There has never been an asteroid impact of this size in human history, and scientists normally have to study eroded craters on Earth or images of craters on other planets.

To further understand the Nadir crater, Dr Nicholson and team analysed high-resolution 3D data from a geophysical company called TGS.

As beautiful as it is complex, the fly’s brain has more than 130,000 wires with 50 million intricate connections

Fly brain breakthrough ‘huge leap’ to unlock human mind

They can walk, hover and the males can even sing love songs to woo mates - all this with a brain that’s tinier than a pinhead.

Now for the first time scientists researching the brain of a fly have identified the position, shape and connections of every single one of its 130,000 cells and 50 million connections.

It's the most detailed analysis of the brain of an adult animal ever produced.

One leading brain specialist independent of the new research

described the breakthrough as a "huge leap" in our understanding of our own brains.

One of the research leaders said it would shed new light into “the mechanism of thought”.

Dr Gregory Jefferis, of the Medical Research Council's Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) in Cambridge told BBC News that currently we have no idea how the network of brain cells in each of

A second, smaller space rock smashed into the sea off the coast of West Africa creating a large crater during the same era

Science & Technology

New report warns of rise in breast cancer cases among women younger than 50

Despite a continuous decline in the rate of breast cancer deaths in the United States, the incidence of the disease has increased, especially among younger ages, and significant racial disparities remain, according to a new American Cancer Society report.

The study, published Tuesday in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, found some good news: The overall breast cancer death rate in the US dropped about 44% between 1989 and 2022, which translates to almost 518,000 fewer breast cancer deaths during that time. This is largely thanks to advances in cancer treatments and in detecting illness early through screening, which is recommended for women at average risk starting at age 40.

But there was also some concerning news: The incidence of the disease itself climbed 1% each year from 2012 to 2021.

“If we look at the last decade or so, we’ve seen breast cancer incidence rise at about a 1% year-over-year increase, and the steepness of that increase does not affect all women in this case equally,” said Karen Knudsen, chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.

“There is a slightly higher increase in the rate of breast cancer diagnosis for women who are under age 50 versus those that are above age 50,” she said. “These are things that we are watching to try to understand.”

A separate study published in January also found that breast cancer incidence rates among women ages 20 to 49 rose over the past 20 years.

The trend follows a pattern seen recently with other cancer types, such as colorectal cancer, in that

more people are being diagnosed at younger ages than has traditionally been seen.

DIFFERENCES BY RACE AND REGION

For the new report, researchers from the American Cancer Society, Weill Cornell Medicine and Harvard Medical School analyzed data on breast cancer incidence and deaths from the National Cancer Institute and registries at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dating to 1975. They found some significant differences in the data by race and state as well as age.

The researchers found that Black women continue to be more likely to die from the disease, as they had a 38% higher death rate than White women despite being 5% less likely to develop breast cancer.

“If you look actually more carefully at the mortality data, this is really driven by young women particularly,” said Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the American Cancer Society. “If you

look at Black women between the ages of 20 and 29, their chances of dying from breast cancer is two times greater than their White colleagues.”

The data showed that Black women have the highest mortality rate overall. The rate ranged from about 12 deaths per 100,000 women in the Asian American/ Pacific Islander community to about 27 deaths per 100,000 in the Black community.

The report notes that Asian American and Pacific Islander women had the fastest increase in breast cancer incidence each year both among those younger than 50, at 2.7% per year, and in women 50 and older, at 2.5% per year.

“The acceleration of breast cancer incidence rates among Asian American and Pacific Islander is particularly disturbing. Emerging data suggest that some gene mutations predisposing to breast cancer may result in greater risk among Asian women compared to White women,” Dr. Ruth Carlos, a professor of radiology and the assistant chair for clinical research

Fly brain breakthrough ‘huge leap’ to ...

our heads enables us to interact with each other and the world around us.

“What are the connections? How do the signals flow through the system that can let us process the information to recognise your face, that lets you hear my voice and turn these words into electrical signals?

“The mapping of the fly brain is really remarkable and will help

us get a real grasp of how our own brains work.”

We have a million times as many brain cells, or neurons, than the fruit fly which was studied. So how can the wiring diagram of an insect brain help scientists learn how we think?

The images the scientists have produced, which have been published in the journal Nature, show a tangle of wiring that is as beautiful as it is complex. Its shape and structure holds

the key to explaining how such a tiny organ can carry out so many powerful computational tasks.

Developing a computer the size of a poppy seed capable of all these tasks is way beyond the ability of modern science.

Dr Mala Murthy, another of the project’s co-leaders, from Princeton University, said the new wiring diagram, known scientifically as a connectome, would be “transformative for neuroscientists”.

be contributing to this rise.”

‘WE SEE IT IN THE OFFICE EVERY DAY’

The data in the new report reflects what many oncologists are noticing on the ground, said Dr. Carmen Calfa, a medical oncologist at the University of Miami Health System’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and associate director of Sylvester’s community breast cancer outreach program, who was not involved in the new report.

at the University of Michigan, who was not involved in the new report, wrote in an email.

“It is disappointing that outcomes appear static for Black/ African-American women,” she added. “Several research groups are investigating the biological effects of structural discrimination on the development of breast cancer.”

Some geographic variation also emerged in the data. The researchers found that the incidence of breast cancer ranged from 113 cases out of every 100,000 women in Nevada to about 143 per 100,000 in North Carolina.

Another geographic gap was found for the breast cancer death rate, ranging from about 15 deaths per 100,000 women in Massachusetts to about 23 per 100,000 in Mississippi and 24 per 100,000 in the District of Columbia.

“Differences by state reflect several factors, including demographic characteristics and the prevalence of cancer risk factors, mammography screening, and access to care, which is influenced by public health policy, such as the expansion of Medicaid, and other laws and programs,” the researchers wrote.

They project that this year, nearly 311,000 cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among US women, affecting about 1 in 8, and more than 42,000 women will die from breast cancer.

The researchers should be “commended” for such a comprehensive analysis of breast cancer trends, Carlos said.

“They have uncovered worrisome trends especially regarding breast cancer in younger women,” she wrote.

“Environmental risks, lifestyle risks and genetic risk factors may

“The alarming increase in incidence overall of breast cancer has been noticed and noted, and we see it in the office every day when we see patients of all ages, but we see more of the young ones than we used to,” Calfa said, adding that her youngest breast cancer patient was diagnosed at 20.

“We’ve been witnessing and seeing patients presenting to us at the higher rate, at the younger age,” she said. “While we’re noticing the increase in incidence of breast cancer in younger patients, the trends have been really significant and consistent throughout other cancer types, and that makes us wonder, it’s not only a breastspecific finding.”

Calfa added that many of the risk factors for breast cancer are common throughout other cancer types as well, which may hold clues as to why the incidence of certain cancers continues to rise among younger ages.

“The common risk factors are all there, and I think that’s where we have a huge opportunity,” she said. “That’s the lifestyle that includes the food, the type of diets, the amount of exercise.”

Other factors that can raise the risk of breast cancer include having a family history of cancer, increased alcohol consumption, having a high-risk lesion biopsied from the breast or having a certain genetic mutation.

Some ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer include keeping a healthy weight, being physically active, drinking alcohol in moderation or not at all and, for some people, taking medications such as tamoxifen and breastfeeding your children, if possible.

“I would also call to action for every woman and man to try to understand their own, personal risk and to be their best advocates when it comes to prevention, early detection, treatment and ultimately overall outcomes,” Calfa said. (CNN)

A new American Cancer Society report says that breast cancer incidence in the United States continued an “upward trend,” rising 1% annually from 2012 to 2021

Science & Technology

Lost biblical tree resurrected from 1,000 year-old seed

Botanists have grown a long-lost tree species from a 1,000-year-old seed found in a cave in the Judean Desert in the 1980s.

The researchers involved in the project say they believe the tree species, which is thought to be extinct today, could have been the source of a healing balm mentioned in the Bible and other ancient texts.

Unearthed during an archaeological dig in the lower Wadi el-Makkuk region north of Jerusalem, the ancient seed was determined to be in pristine condition. But the scientists conducting the new research weren’t able to identify the type of tree from the seed alone. The team, led by Dr. Sarah Sallon, a physician who founded the Louis L. Borick Natural Medicine Research Center at Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem, planted the seed to further investigate more than a dozen years ago.

Sallon said it was possible that the tree could be the source of the biblical “tsori,” a medicinal plant extract associated with the historical region of Gilead north of the Dead Sea in the Jordan Rift Valley, a mountainous and forested area that was intensely cultivated and is now part of Jordan.

The team’s findings, described in a study published September 10 in the journal Communications Biology, unlock some of the secrets surrounding the origins of this enigmatic specimen, which Sallon nicknamed “Sheba.”

GENETIC FINGERPRINT WITHOUT A MATCH

To germinate the specimen, study coauthor Dr. Elaine Solowey, a researcher emerita at the Center

Dozens

for Sustainable Agriculture at The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies in Israel, used a process perfected during previous research led by Sallon on 2,000-year-old date palm seeds. The approach involved soaking the mysterious Judean Desert seed in water mixed with hormones and fertilizer before planting it in a pot of sterile soil.

“About five and a half weeks later, up jumps this nice little shoot,” Sallon said.

Protecting the shoot tip was a caplike feature called an operculum. Once it had shed, the team used radiocarbon dating on the organic matter to estimate the plant’s age and found the specimen dated to between AD 993 and 1202.

Not long after, the tree began to sprout leaves. Sallon shared images of the tree and its leaves with botanists around the world. One expert suggested it belonged to the genus Commiphora. The group includes around 200 species of tree primarily found in Africa, Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula.

Sallon next shared a sample from the leaf with study coauthor Dr. Andrea Weeks, an associate professor in the department of biology at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Weeks sequenced the tree’s DNA, confirming the preliminary identification. However, the sample didn’t match any of the known Commiphora species in her database.

With its unique genetic fingerprint, the unknown Commiphora species most likely represented an extinct taxon once native to the region surrounding the Judean Desert, according to the study.

However, the tree, which is now more than 14 years old and almost 10 feet (3 meters) tall, has neither flowered nor borne fruit. Without these more easily identifiable features, it’s not possible to identify the cryptic species with certainty, the study added.

BIBLICAL TREE?

Based on historical research, Sallon had a hunch that the tree might be the source of what ancient texts from the region, including the Bible, describe as “Judean Balsam” or “Balm of Gilead” — a fragrant resin harvested to make a coveted perfume that was exported around the world at the time.

“We planted it in 2010 (and) it’s now 2024. Why did we wait so long (to publish the research)? Because I wanted to make sure that it wasn’t the Judean Balsam. And how would I definitively know that? By smelling it,” Sallon said.

Yet the tree, which is related to the myrrh tree that’s famed for its resin, never gave off any kind of scent. Once the plant was more mature at around 3 years old, the team conducted a phytochemical analysis on its resin, leaves and branches to test for aromatic compounds, such as those found in myrrh. However, there were none, Sallon said.

Instead, the team detected some compounds known for their medicinal use, including “guggulterols,” which have been identified from the resin of the related tree species Commiphora wightii as having potential cancerfighting properties, the study noted.

“Based on all these things, it’s not the Judean balsam, it’s a close cousin of it, and one of the

The tree, which the study authors believe may have a biblical connection, is seen at 12 years old

non-aromatic Commiphora that is a treasure chest of medicinal compounds,” she said.

Due to the presence of those healing compounds, Sallon and her colleagues concluded that the tree may have instead been the source of a medicinal balm known as tsori that is also mentioned in historical texts.

Seeds with such an incredible lifespan are rare, according to Dr. Louise Colville, senior research leader in seed and stress biology

at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in London. Colville wasn’t involved in the research.

“What’s surprising in this story is it was just a single seed and to be able to have one chance for that to germinate is extremely lucky,” she said.

“Working in a seed bank, seeing the potential for that extreme longevity gives us hope that banking and storing seeds that some at least will survive for very long periods of time.” (CNN)

of tigers dead after bird flu hits Vietnam zoos

Dozens of tigers have died in zoos in south Vietnam after a bird flu outbreak, according to state media.

Three lions and a panther were also reported to have died of the virus alongside 47 tigers since August.

The H5N1 outbreak hit the Vuon Xoai zoo near Ho Chi Minh City and the My Quynh safari park in neighbouring Long An province.

An official told Reuters news agency that the animals had likely fallen ill after being fed meat from chickens which had been infected.

The Vietnamese ministry of health said two samples taken from dead tigers tested positive for bird flu, and officials are “tracking the source of the chicken to determine the cause”.

The zoos declined to comment when contacted by AFP news agency.

Advice on the World Health Organization (WHO) website warns against consuming raw or undercooked meat and eggs from regions experiencing bird flu outbreaks due to the high risk of infection.

The H5N1 strain of the virus primarily infects animals, and the WHO says almost all cases of human infection arise from close contact with infected live or dead birds, or contaminated environments.

Since 2022, there have been increasing reports of deadly outbreaks among mammals caused by influenza viruses, including H5N1.

Close to 900 human infections have been reported since 2003, of which more than half were fatal. (BBC)

Sports International

Fifa to investigate alleged rule breaches by Israel

Fifa’s disciplinary committee will investigate alleged breaches of its rules by the Israel Football Association (IFA).

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) submitted a proposal to have Israel suspended from international football in May over the war in Gaza.

“The Fifa Disciplinary Committee will be mandated to initiate an investigation into the alleged offence of discrimination raised by the Palestine Football Association,” Fifa said.

The PFA believes Israel’s federation has committed “violations of Fifa regulations” and called for sanctions against the country’s national teams and clubs.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino said: “The Fifa Council has implemented due diligence on this very sensitive matter and, based on a thorough assessment, we

have followed the advice of the independent experts.

“The ongoing violence in the region confirms that, above all considerations, and as stated at the 74th Fifa Congress, we need peace.

Messi lifts Inter Miami to first Supporters’ Shield in 3-2 victory against Columbus Crew

Messi led Inter Miami to its first ever Supporters’ Shield with a 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew Wednesday night, winning his second title with the club and his 46th overall.

Messi’s two goals – the first, a close-range finish, and the second, a sensational curling free-kick – at the end of the first half helped Inter Miami best the Crew to win the trophy, which is given to the team with the best overall regular season record.

The Argentinian’s former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez restored the two-goal advantage just after Columbus cut the lead in the 46th minute through Diego Rossi’s effort, and Miami held on for the win despite Cucho

Hernández scoring a penalty later in the second half.

“I am happy. Happy for this group. I think I told you at the beginning of the year, we knew that this was a group to fight for this,” Messi said in a post-game interview with Apple TV.

“We took charge from the beginning, we had the players to do this. I am happy to secure the first objective, and we’re thinking of the next (one),” he added.

The victory comes not long after Messi spent more than three months away from action with Miami due to injury and national team duty, returning to the pitch on September 15. This year, he has tallied 17 goals and 15 assists in just 17 games for the team.

in Israeli competitions of Israeli football teams allegedly based in the territory of Palestine”.

Israel are playing their Nations League home matches in Hungary, where an away game against Belgium last month was also moved because of security concerns.

They are scheduled to host France and play in Italy during the international break in October.

Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza in response to the unprecedented attack on southern Israel on 7 October by Hamas gunmen, during which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage.

“As we remain extremely shocked by what is happening, and our thoughts are with those who are suffering, we urge all parties to restore peace to the region with immediate effect.”

Two investigations have been mandated by the Fifa Council into the IFA, with the first into allegations of discrimination within its national league, to be conducted by Fifa’s disciplinary committee.

The governing body said that the second, led by Fifa’s governance, audit and compliance committee, will consider “the participation

Since the attack, a military campaign in Gaza has killed a total of 41,689 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The Fifa Council met on Thursday with Israel launching a ground invasion in southern Lebanon against the armed group Hezbollah, while Iran has fired more than 180 missiles towards Israel.

Shino Moshe Zuares, the president of the IFA, previously said: “We are facing a cynical political and hostile attempt by the Palestinian association to harm Israeli football.”

Exceptional transfer window proposed for Club World Cup teams

Also announced after Fifa’s meeting in Zurich on Thursday were regulations regarding the Fifa Club World Cup and a change to next summer’s transfer window.

The expanded tournament in 2025 will have 32 teams competing in the United States from 15 June to 13 July.

Fifa member associations of participating clubs will have the option of opening an “exceptional registration window” for new signings from 1 to 10 June.

Competing clubs will also be able to replace players during a “a restricted in-competition period” from 27 June to 3 July.

Fifa said this was in order to “encourage clubs and players whose contracts are expiring to find an appropriate solution to facilitate the players’ participation”.

The decision to open the additional window is at the discretion of each member association - Chelsea and Manchester City have qualified from England.

Fifa has also said it will request an expansion of the Olympic women’s football tournament from 12 to 16 teams, in line with the men’s event. (BBC)

Pogacar completes ‘Triple Crown’ with first world title

Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar produced a stunning solo ride in Switzerland to claim his first world road race title - and become only the third man to win cycling’s ‘Triple Crown’ of the men’s Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and world title in the same year.

The 26-year-old caught his rivals napping with 100km of the 273.9km route in Zurich remaining, leaving Belgium’s Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel and reigning world champion Mathieu van der Poel, of the Netherlands, behind in the peloton.

Pogacar quickly bridged a gap to a breakaway group before hitting the front on his own with 50km to go and maintained his advantage in the closing kilometres, leaving the field to fight for the minor medals.

“I put a lot of pressure on myself for today,” said the three-time Tour de France winner. “I had pressure for myself and for the team. We came here for the victory.

“After a perfect season it was really a big goal to win a world championship and I just can’t believe it happened.”

The success meant Pogacar became the first man to win the ‘Triple Crown’ since Ireland’s Stephen Roche in 1987, while

Belgian great Eddy Merckx was the first to do it in 1974. In 2022, Annemiek van Vleuten of the Netherlands became the only woman to achieve the landmark.

Pogacar finished in six hours, 27 minutes and 30 seconds - 34 seconds clear of Australia’s Ben O’Connor, who broke off the front of the chasing pack to claim silver.

His victory replicated superb solo rides in the spring’s one-day races, when the Slovenian attacked

from 30km out to win the LiegeBastogne-Liege and from 80km to claim the Strade Bianche.

Van der Poel finished 58 seconds back in third after winning a sprint finish for bronze, pipping fourthplaced Latvian Toms Skujins, while world time-trial champion Evenepoel was fifth and Swiss rider Marc Hirschi sixth.

Scotland’s Oscar Onley, 21, was the first Briton home in a creditable 16th place. (BBC)

Lionel

The victory marked the 46th title of Lionel Messi’s career

The Palestine Football Association has called for Fifa to suspend Israel after the death of over 41,000 Palestinians, including a large number of children

Tadej Pogacar’s previous best finish in the world road race was third in Glasgow last year

Sports International

David hits Lille winner to shock holders Real Madrid

Holders Real Madrid fell to their first Champions League defeat since May 2023 as Lille upset them at the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium.

It was also a first loss for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in 36 matches in all competitions - dating back to 18 January against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

Jonathan David scored the only goal from the penalty spot for Lille after a video assistant referee (VAR) review ruled that Real’s French midfielder Eduardo Camavinga had blocked Edon

Zhegrova’s free-kick with his arm.

The hosts were superb throughout and more than merited their victory to get up and running in this season’s competition following a 2-0 loss to Sporting in their opening game.

Prior to scoring from the spot, Canada international David was denied by a superb double save from visiting keeper Andriy Lunin as Bruno Genesio’s team dominated proceedings.

Brazilian forward Endrick, who at 18 years and 73 days became the youngest ever player to start for Real

in the competition, was unable to make an impact, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham also struggled to impose himself on the game.

However, the Ligue 1 club were forced to hang on at the end against a Real side that introduced Kylian Mbappe - returning from a thigh injury - just before the hour mark.

A late rally from the 15-time European champions saw Antonio Rudiger’s header cleared off the line and Arda Guler head a giltedged opportunity straight at home goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.

Sir Mark Cavendish says he is still committed to completing his 2024 race schedule after receiving his knighthood at Windsor Castle.

Cavendish, 39, has not competed since he broke the Tour de France stage wins record with his 35th victory in July.

The ‘Manx Missile’ said following the final stage of his 15th Tour this summer that it was “likely” the final race of his career.

On his future in the sport, Cavendish said: “I’ve still got races this year. I’m still training for them, it will be really nice to race as a Knight Commander.”

Cavendish first hinted at retirement at the end of the 2020 season, having not won at the Tour since 2018, but returned to form the following year.

After the heartbreak of his raceending crash in 2023 when on the verge of history, Cavendish delayed his retirement and signed a contract extension with the AstanaQazaqstan Team until the end of the 2024 season.

And while he did not confirm any retirement plans, he reiterated that he would not race the Tour again.

“I’ve already said I won’t do another Tour de France,” Cavendish said.

“That’s public knowledge, I won’t do another Tour de France.” Cavendish, from the Isle of Man, surpassed the legendary Eddy Merckx in Saint Vulbas, having jointly held the record for most Tour stage wins with the Belgian since 2021.

Alcaraz beats Sinner in dramatic China Open final

Carlos Alcaraz came from a set down to edge out world number one Jannik Sinner in a dramatic China Open final.

Alcaraz, 21, continued his fine run of form against the Italian and has now won each of their last three encounters after coming through 6-7 (6-8) 6-4 7-6 (7-3).

It is the Spaniard’s fourth ATP Tour title this year and 16th of his career.

“Jannik once again showed he’s the best player in the world, he’s unbelievable and plays such a high level of tennis,” Alcaraz said.

“I had my chances in the first set and didn’t take it. In general, I’m proud of the way I dealt with the match and managed everything.

“I never lose hope but I know he has great stats. I knew I had to give everything I had to give myself the opportunity.”

Elsewhere, Great Britain’s Dan Evans was knocked out in the first round at the Shanghai Masters, having come through qualifying.

Alcaraz gets

Since suffering a shock secondround exit at the US

Alcaraz has bounced back to win nine matches in a row, including helping Team Europe win the

last month.

Alcaraz appeared to be on track for the perfect start when he moved into a 5-2 lead in the opening set, however, Sinner saved two set points to force a tie-break, which he went on to win.

The pivotal moment in the second arrived in the ninth game, when Alcaraz seized his opportunity to secure a break before serving out for the set to take it to a decider.

There has been little to separate the pair in the early stages of their careers, with their head-to-head record now 6-4 in Alcaraz’s favour, and it was another fine example of what the future of tennis has to offer in Beijing.

Sinner has made a habit of winning big games over the course of 2024, prevailing in all six of his previous finals - including the Australian Open and US Open - and he found an extra gear to mount another fightback in the final set.

Trailing 4-2 in the third, Sinner won three successive games to wrestle back momentum and send the encounter to a match-deciding tie-break.

Sinner looked firmly in control after opening up a 3-0 advantage, but Alcaraz would not be denied.

Carlos Alcaraz won silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Evans, 34, forced a deciding set, which he led 4-2, but eventually lost out in a tie-break against Brazil’s Thiago Seyboth Wild, who won 6-2 4-6 7-6 (7-3) to set up a meeting with Russian world number five Daniil Medvedev.

better of Sinner in latest showdown

Open,

Laver Cup

Jonathan David of LOSC Lille celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot with teammate Tiago Santos during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League

Sir Mark Cavendish received his knighthood at Windsor Castle Cavendish committed to completing 2024 race plans

Sports International

Controversial Wimbledon expansion plan approved

Wimbledon’s controversial plans to build 39 new tennis courts on protected open land opposite the All England Club has been approved.

The All England Club wants to build the courts, including an 8,000-seat stadium, on Wimbledon Park.

Jules Pipe, the Deputy Mayor of London, decided that “significant” community and economic benefits of the scheme outweigh the harm.

Local residents and politicians fighting the proposal are now running out of options, but could still apply for a judicial review.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has the power to hold a fresh planning hearing, but has made clear in a letter seen by BBC Sport that the application “should be determined at a local level”.

The development will allow Wimbledon qualifying to take place on site, in line with the other three Grand Slams.

According to All England Club chair Deborah Jevans, it would prevent the Championships “falling behind the other Grand Slams”.

“Clearly we are very, very pleased - it has been a long journey to this point,” Jevans told BBC Sport.

“Equally there is a journey to go through before we start to build.

“Our ambition, if everything falls into place, is that we could see tennis balls being hit on that site between 2030 and 2033.”

There has been strong local opposition from groups such as Save Wimbledon Park, which fears the area will become a “huge industrial tennis complex”.

Jeers were heard from members of these groups when Pipe’s decision was announced at

London’s City Hall on Friday.

Wimbledon qualifying is currently held around three and a half miles away at Roehampton’s Community Sports Centre.

WHY DOES WIMBLEDON WANT THE EXPANSION?

The scheme would result in Wimbledon qualifying switching from Roehampton, which can cater for about 2,000 spectators a day.

With the new development in place, up to 10,000 people a day would be able to watch qualifying and up to 50,000 could enter the grounds during each day of the main fortnight.

It would also represent an upgrade in facilities for the players.

The new show court would have a roof. That would meet Wimbledon’s goal for another large show court able to host matches

whatever the weather.

However, Fleur Anderson, the Labour MP for Putney, told the hearing she believed revamping the existing facility at Roehampton is a “viable solution”.

WHAT DO LOCAL RESIDENTS SAY?

Many local residents have been vociferously opposed to the plans for land that used to house the Wimbledon Park Golf Club.

The Wimbledon Society describes the proposal as an “industrial tennis complex with an unacceptable environmental impact”.

A petition organised by Save Wimbledon Park has attracted almost 21,000 signatures.

Opposition centres around the environmental impact of the scheme. Fears have been raised

over flood risk and air quality, plus the loss of wildlife, trees and open spaces.

People are also concerned about the traffic, noise and environmental impact of at least six years of building work.

Some residents worry about the extra spectators who will be able to visit the site every day; others believe the All England Club’s ulterior motive is to build a hotel complex on the site.

The All England Club says the plans will “provide year-round significant public benefit to our community’, adding it understands “the importance of caring for the landscape and ecology of the site”.

WHY DID THE SCHEME GET APPROVAL?

Announcing his decision, Pipe said he felt the expansion was vital for

Wimbledon’s long-term future as a Grand Slam tournament.

“As is widely accepted, Wimbledon is the most prestigious tournament in world tennis, which attracts a global audience, visitors, and contributes to London’s brand in terms of culture, sporting heritage and as a visitor destination,” he said.

“I consider the proposal would be important in helping secure the future of these Championships in this location.”

In a 221-page report, GLA planning officers had outlined a “very significant economic benefit to the London and UK-wide economy”.

They did not believe there would be “unacceptable effects on the environment that would warrant refusal”, adding it would have a “very limited” impact on local residents’ lives.

However, local MP Anderson believes the proposal “sets a dangerous precedent for building on the green belt”.

“We will continue to make sure that any community benefits that have been promised will be delivered,” she added after the decision was announced.

WHAT BENEFITS ARE PROMISED TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?

A new 23-acre public park will be created, with access free and all year round - excluding the weeks of the Championships.

The intention is to recapture some of the original design of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown - the 18th Century landscape architect renowned for his elegant and natural looking landscapes.

Silt will be removed from the lake and a new boardwalk installed.

The United States continued their dominance of the Presidents Cup by claiming an 18½-11½ win over the International team to seal a 10th straight title.

The US led 11-7 before Sunday’s 12 singles matches, needing 4½ points on the final day to defend their title in Canada.

Keegan Bradley beat Kim Siwoo to secure the winning point at Royal Montreal, with the US winning six of the singles matches and halving three.

“Wow, that was incredible,” said Bradley, 38, who will be the US captain for next year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black on Long Island.

“I didn’t know if I would get to do this again and to be able to just play in this tournament, and to win the point... my goodness.

“The last time I played (2014), I was the point to lose the Ryder Cup. If this is my last round as a playermaybe it is - I’m happy with that.”

Xander Schauffele set the Americans on their way with a 4&3 victory over Australian Jason Day in the opening contest.

“My goal was just to set the tone, to get [American] red up on that board as early as possible, and I was able to do that,” Schauffele told NBC. Schauffele, who has won two major championships this year,

The All England Club (AELTC) wants to build 39 tennis courts on the former site of Wimbledon Park Golf Club

Keegan Bradley will be the US team captain at next year’s Ryder Cup

‘Incredible’ US cruise to 10th straight Presidents Cup

Sports National

Inaugural CANOC awards set for TCI – Fulford-Missick nominated for Caribbean Distinguished Service Award

The inaugural Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) Sports Awards will be held later this month in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The event, which will honour the Caribbean’s finest athletes, teams and sports leaders is scheduled to take place on October 19 at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa.

Although no TCI athlete was shortlisted for the awards, one of our most distinguished sport administrator, Sonia FulfordMissick is among the nominees for the Caribbean Distinguished Service Award, which is honouring regional leaders for their dedication in advancing sport in the region.

President of the TCI Commonwealth Games Association, Godfrey Been called the awards in the TCI “an honour”.

“This event not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of

our region’s athletes and sports leaders but also strengthens the bond of unity that sports fosters across the Caribbean. We are proud to play a pivotal role in recognising the excellence that transcends our sporting communities and showcases the Caribbean on the global sporting stage,” Been stated.

Among the awardees are Olympics 100m Julien Alfred and Olympic silver medallist Shanieka Ricketts.

FEMALE CATEGORY:

Julien Alfred (Saint Lucia, Athletics)

Jasmine Camacho-Quinn (Puerto Rico, Athletics)

Marileidy Paulino (Dominican Republic, Athletics)

Shafiqua Maloney (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Athletics)

Shanieka Ricketts (Jamaica, Athletics)

MALE CATEGORY:

Kyron McMaster (British Virgin Islands, Athletics)

Lindon Victor (Grenada, Decathlon)

Mijain Lopez Nunez (Cuba, Wrestling)

Jereem Richards (Trinidad and Tobago, Athletics)

Roje Stona (Jamaica, Athletics)

Sebastian Rivera (Puerto Rico, Wrestling)

THE BATTLE FOR CARIBBEAN TEAM OF THE YEAR INCLUDES DOMINANT TEAMS FROM ACROSS THE REGION:

Female Category:

Dominican Republic Volleyball Team

Barbados Triathlon Team

Puerto Rico Basketball Team

USVI Basketball Team

MALE CATEGORY:

Barbados U-14 Football Team

Curaçao Baseball Team

Dominican Republic Football Team

THE CARIBBEAN BREAKTHROUGH AWARD WILL HONOUR ATHLETES WHO HAVE EARNED THEIR FIRST MEDAL AT A CONTINENTAL OR INTERNATIONAL MULTISPORT COMPETITION:

Thea LaFond (Dominica, Athletics)

Adaejah Hodge (British Virgin Islands, Athletics)

Junior Alcantara Reyes (Dominican Republic, Boxing)

Cristian Javier Pinales (Dominican Republic, Boxing)

Julien Alfred (Saint Lucia, Athletics)

Other categories to be awarded at the star-studded event include the Caribbean Sports Media Award, with nominees like Sebastian Cyrus

(St Vincent & the Grenadines); Jesus Leonardo Reyes (Dominican Republic), and Anmar GoodridgeBoyce (Barbados) recognised for their contributions to Caribbean sport media. The Caribbean Distinguished Service Award with individuals such as Sonia FulfordMissick (Football), Judy Simons (Administration), Shane Cadogan (Athletes Advocacy), and Philip Spooner (Administrator) for their dedication to advancing sport in the region.

A Caribbean Lifetime Achievement Quadrennial Award will be presented to an individual who has rendered exceptional service at the national, regional, or international level, demonstrating transformational leadership.

Additionally, the Caribbean National Olympic Committee of the Year Award will recognise a National Olympic Committee for its outstanding contribution to the advancement of sport.

Sonia Fulford-Missick is among the nominees for the Caribbean Distinguished Service Award

Olympic champion Julien Alfred is a double nominee

HJRHS stamp authority on TCISS Inter-High with big win

The HJ Robinson High School stamped their authority on the Turks and Caicos School Sports (TCISS) Inter-High School Football Season with an emphatic 13-0 win over Majorie Basden High School (MBHS) at the TCIFA Field in week one of the competition.

In the third minute, the eventual winner found the back of the net via Davaun Daniel, and the

floodgates opened. Eight players were able to score, including Jephte Derelice, who sealed the game with a hat-trick towards the end. Three other players had braces, including Daniel, Caiden Francis, and Fedenslove Delsonna (tied last year for the Golden Boot award).

Despite the dominance in scoring, the playmaker for the side was Edens Raphael, who finished

with four assists and one goal. It was not all dominance for HJ Robinson, since they went down to Elite 1-0.

In the other boys’ clashes, defending champions, A. Louise Garland Thomas High School opened with a 2-0 victory, when they battled Raymond Gardiner High School. Like Delsonna, another Golden Boot winner (tied), Idelin Gardiner also got into

scoring mode with goals in the 27 and 40+1 minute.

In the other clashes, Raymond Gardiner High School defeated MBHS 4-2; Wesley Methodist High School defeated the British West Indies Collegiate 2-1 and Clement Howell High School got the better of TCIPS 1-0.

In the Girls’ Division, MBHS defeated Elite High School 4-0 with Kayley Hall scoring in the 1st

and 20th minutes. CHHS also registered a flawless win, with a 3-0 win against WMHS. Kryssan Williams led the attack with goals in the 7th and 33rd minutes.

Sendia Marcel also finished with a brace, when ALGTHS defeated RGHS 4-0. In the other games, BWIC defeated MBHS 2-0.

HJ Robinson High School had a big win over MBHS

Edens Raphael

Kayley Hall

Kryssan Williams

Sendia Marcel

ALGTHS won both their opening male and female battles