TC Weekly News September 21 - 27, 2024

“UK GOVT HAS LET US DOWN”

Govt vows to crack down on crime wave

In a stark admission of the escalating crime wave sweeping through the Turks and Caicos Islands, government leaders convened a press conference on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, to address the alarming surge in violence and outline a comprehensive plan to restore peace and security.

With a record 31 homicides (now 32) so far for 2024, the idyllic islands are facing an unprecedented crisis that has shaken the community to its core.

In a hard-hitting press conference held at the Office of the Premier, the Turks and Caicos Islands government unveiled a series of sweeping measures aimed at combating the escalating crime wave that has gripped the nation.

The government’s multi-pronged approach includes bolstering law enforcement agencies, enhancing intelligence capabilities, and addressing the root causes of crime through social programmes.

Speaking at the press briefing, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, acknowledging the fear and anxiety gripping the nation, declared, “The level of criminality in the Turks and Caicos Islands has shaken us all at our core. I want to acknowledge, first and

foremost, that the rise in violent crime, aggravated robberies, sexual assaults, murder, general lawlessness is totally unacceptable.

“This is not who we are as a people, and we will not tolerate this assault on our society any longer.”

Commissioner of Police Mr Edwin Martin painted a grim picture of the challenges faced by law enforcement, revealing the disturbing trend of a small number of individuals being responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence. He stated, “We do believe that definitely there is a large number of criminal activity, particularly as it relates to the issue of homicides being committed by a small number of people.”

Underscoring the severity of the rise in violent crime and its impact on the TCI, Martin said: “One homicide is one too much, and certainly 31 homicides (now 32) that we know experiencing requires a whole of government and also requires a whole of society approach for us to stem this tide of criminality within our space.”

Despite these challenges, Commissioner Martin highlighted the successes of ‘Operation Might’, a targeted police initiative launched on July 8, 2024, which

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has led to a significant reduction in overall crime.

Coupled with these measures, Martin stressed that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is looking to build capacity.

He said: “What we’ve done in this context as it relates to the issue of recruitment, we have since recruited 26 officers from the time I arrived here, 20 males, six females from a number of different locations, trained police officers who were able to directly improve operational capability.

“On the ground, we are looking at reviewing and enhancing promotion within the force, which will provide a few additional areas for further recruitment.

“In addition to the issue of increasing establishment in the police force, we are also looking to hire analysts who will assist with analysing intelligent data and building a picture for us as it relates to the level of criminality.

“We also hired HR and Corporate Services experts to assist with building resilience and tenacity within the police force to address the issues that are currently before us.

“We are also looking to fill out a covert policing capability, and all of these issues are led by the Governor, of course, through the Premier as well, to make sure that we deliver on those issues.”

He also emphasised the importance of collaboration with

international partners, stating, “We are working collaboratively with OPBAT (Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos). OPBAT is a collaboration by treaty between TCI, the Bahamas, and the United States.”

COMPLEX SITUATION

The Governor, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, stressing the need for a multi-faceted approach that combines robust law enforcement with community engagement and social programmes.

She said: “I understand that there is fear, and anxiety for the safety and security of our neighbourhoods, across the region there has been increase in serious crime.

“What makes the position more acute for the Turks and Caicos Islands is our geography, and we are having to field a response. Nobody looks at this from an internal security perspective, but also a maritime perspective. What we are facing is complex. It is an evolving threat, and there is no easy solution, as the commissioner has outlined.

She acknowledged the intricate nature of the threat, stating, “What we are not seeking to do is some form of heroic policing and growing resource or quick searches to try and drive a change.

“Since I took up post I’ve worked closely with the Premier

and the National Security Council to ensure that we are looking at this and gripping this holistically. We are looking at structural change within our law enforcement agencies to drive a more strategic focus in our operations.”

Premier Misick pledged unwavering support for law enforcement, stating, “We will spare no expense in providing every tool that the police require to carry out their work.”

In addition to law enforcement efforts, the government is committed to addressing the root causes of crime through social programs focused on education, public health, and safe housing.

Premier Misick emphasised the importance of community involvement, stating, “We must stand together, regardless of political parties, denominations, colour, creed or any other categorization of us as a people.”

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with this unprecedented crime wave, the government’s resolute response signals a determination to restore peace and security.

The territory’s leader emphasised that although the road to recovery may be long and challenging, with a comprehensive strategy in place and a commitment to collaboration from members of the community, the islands are poised to overcome this crisis and emerge stronger than ever.

Residents swindled out of money for work permits and PRCs with fake receipts

An intensive investigation has been launched by the Financial Crimes Unit of the Police Force into the issuance of fake receipts for work permits and permanent residence certificates (PRC) spanning more than a year.

On Friday, police reported that following allegations of persons being given forged receipts for work permits and PRC, their investigations have so far revealed that the swindle has been ongoing since June 2023.

Police said the receipts persons were given purport to show that the Treasury Department had issued them for payments of the documents, when in fact the department had not. They are also reminding the public that is a crime to utter forged documents intending to deceive and defraud.

Members of the public who utilised the services of any individual(s) or entity(s) to apply for a work permit or

PRC on their behalf and, upon completion of the service, received a receipt of payment and suspect the same to be fraudulent are asked to visit the Immigration Department for authentication.

If said receipts are fraudulent, the public is asked to lodge a report at the FCU’s office at Police Headquarters, Old Airport Road, Providenciales, email FCU@tcipolice.tc, or call 247-4996.

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam

Commissioner of Police Mr Edvin Martin

Premier blasts UK for failing to help curb soaring crime rate

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick has publicly voiced his frustration with the UK government, accusing them of falling short of their promises to ensure the safety and security of the territory amid a devastating crime wave.

His blistering criticism comes as the islands grapple with a record-breaking 32 homicides in 2024, a crisis fuelled by escalating violence in neighbouring Haiti, transnational crime, trafficking and a myriad of underlying social ills including unemployment.

Despite repeated pleas for enhanced security support, Misick contends that the UK has failed to deliver on its promises, leaving the Turks and Caicos Islands vulnerable and exposed.

At a press conference held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, Premier Misick expressed his disappointment, stating, “I believe in some ways, 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’ve promised.”

The Premier has been particularly vocal about his desire for a physical military presence on the islands, asserting that “boots on the ground” would act as a deterrent

and send a strong message.

He has repeatedly requested the UK to provide a small number of military personnel to assist in protecting the borders, a request that has so far been met with resistance.

Despite the UK government’s pledges to increase support for border security and law enforcement, the Premier argues that these measures have been insufficient in addressing the escalating crisis. “I’m going

to continue to press at that door,” Premier Misick declared, emphasising his determination to hold the UK accountable for its responsibilities towards the territory.

He further warned that if the UK fails to provide adequate support, the Turks and Caicos Islands will be forced to “standalone and bite the bullet” to protect their “little piece of paradise.

“While acknowledging the UK’s investment in maritime security

and border control measures, Premier Misick maintains that a more robust and comprehensive approach is needed to tackle the root causes of the crime wave.

He has called for greater collaboration between the UK government, local authorities, and community organisations to address the urgent security challenges facing the islands.

Also weighing in on the issue at the press conference, Governor HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam echoed the Premier’s sentiments, and explained that the UK Government is still supporting the TCI in its fight against crime, albeit not at the degree that is necessary.

She said: “I do agree with the Premier there, there is a need for greater operational engagement by the UK government, but I was appointed to serve the interests of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“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.

“In respect to what the UK have been doing, they have invested heavily on our joint maritime…

because our first hurdle is boats coming in.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is a UK Overseas Territory (OT), with its own legislature and government. But as with other OTs the UK and UK-appointed Governor has responsibility for the safety and security of its citizens.

The UK government is ultimately responsible for the good governance, safety and defence of the Territories and their populations. This includes helping the Territories protect themselves from organised crime.

The Territories’ constitution also reserves to the UK-appointed Governor powers over a range of issues, including defence, internal security, and the police.

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with this unprecedented crisis, Premier Misick’s outspoken criticism of the UK government has ignited a debate about TCI’s security needs and the responsibilities of its colonial power.

The situation remains fluid, and the Premier’s call for urgent action underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a swift and effective response to safeguard the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Passage of landmark bill aims to modernise civil procedure

In a significant move towards modernising its legal framework, the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly passed the Civil Procedure Amendment Bill 2024. This landmark legislation, passed on Thursday, September 12th, following a spirited debate, aims to streamline civil litigation processes and align them with international standards.

Acting Attorney General, Mrs Khalila Astwood-Tatem, who introduced the Bill to the House of Assembly for debate, underscored the urgent need for reform. “Mr Speaker,” she stated, “the Civil Procedure ordinance has not been amended since 1999.

“Mr Speaker, throughout the world, certainly in England and Wales, also even in the Caribbean region, the rules applicable to civilization and how you do the procedure for same has changed dramatically to make it a bit more efficient and to allow a bit more ease in doing litigation.

“We are behind in these schools,

and consequently, the amendments proposed in this bill seek to bring us closer to having a more modern civil procedure system”, she added.

The bill introduces several key changes, including replacing the traditional writ of summons with a claim form, establishing a court escrow account, and modifying the assessment of costs. These amendments are designed to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the civil justice system.

However, the bill was not without its critics.

During his contribution to the debate, Opposition Appointed Member Hon Alvin Garland expressed concerns about the bill’s compatibility with existing civil rules and the potential need for further amendments.

He questioned the clarity of certain provisions, particularly regarding the court escrow account and the assessment of costs. “What is a court escrow account?” he inquired.

“Is this something that is going

to only be available to attorneys, or is this something that’s going to be available to the community at large?”

Despite these concerns, the bill received widespread support from members of the House. Elected Member for Leeward and Long Bay, Hon Akierra Missick, a practicing Attorney, hailed the bill as a significant step forward.

Mister Speaker, we are sending

our best and brightest minds off— to come and take over an industry that when they come home to practice in they are unable to erase the good modern civil procedure laws that they would have learned at university that we spend a great deal of money on.”

Missick also highlighted the potential benefits of the bill for both legal professionals and the public, stating that the new forms would

be “a lot more user-friendly”.

Member of Parliament for Blue Hills, Randy Howell, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of modernizing the legal system.

“This ordinance introduces important amendments that will not only improve the clarity of the language in our legal framework but also enhance the efficiency of Civil Procedures,” he stated.

The passage of the Civil Procedure Amendment Bill 2024 marks a significant milestone in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ ongoing efforts to modernise its legal system.

While some concerns remain, the bill’s proponents are confident that it will lead to a more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly civil justice system.

As the islands continue to evolve, this legislation is a testament to their commitment to upholding the principles of justice and providing a robust legal framework for all citizens.

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Acting Attorney General, Mrs Khalila Astwood-Tatem

Editorial GUEST

Somebody sound the alarm

Let us do some easy math. Last week in the TCI, we surpassed 31 murders to date for 2024. Not to worry, there are well over three months still left to go in the year.

With a bit of focus we may well surpass our best hits yet, aiming now it seems to challenge even regional records!

Notwithstanding how our colonial masters perennially try to ‘talk down’ our rising crime rate, as if it is ‘totally acceptable and within the norms’, we know that is absolute rubbish.

Not only by comparison to this territory’s history of very low crime but even by comparison to our Caribbean neighbours.

How do we compare? In the Bahamas, the official Government sites show 110 murders for last year, which was actually down from 128 in 2022. From 2012 to 2017, the number of victims remained well above 100. So their murder rate per capita, is 31 for every 100,000 people. Their population is approximately 400,000.

According to Royal Bahamas Police Force statistics online, their ‘Solvency rate’ for murders for the period 2017-2021 was 56% (only 30% for 2021). That is not so good, by American standards, but actually exceptionally good compared to our dismal performance in the TCI!

When do TCI police ever solve any of our murders? Do such statistics even officially exist? Open source data that the public can see? Such data is entirely missing from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force’s website, and at the TCI Government general website, quite literally the posted message online says “Crime Statistics, Information Coming Soon!”

The police force as we all know, comes down under the Governor’s portfolio. We venture to guess, from our knowledge of the murder rate these past 10 years relative to cases that come to court, that our vaunted TCI police force has not solved even 10% of our murders.

Quite obviously that is half our problem. Our police force hardly ever actually solves any murders!

There was one especially notorious ‘wanna-be-gangsta’ successfully ‘taken out’ by special police units from the Bahamas in 2022, and surprise, surprise, our murder rate immediately plunged, went down some 30% for the ensuing year.

Do we need to beg London for the return of Governor Nigel Dakin to the jurisdiction to work such things out for us? And, while we are on that topic, why oh why, London, in the midst of our ongoing crisis with a spiking crime wave did you send us a lawyer to replace former Governor Dakin, rather than another straight-shooting and straight-talking law-enforcement or military person like him? With a Governor who is a former practicing barrister, one would expect at least that our court system would be finally on its way to badly needed improvements. Truly it is not. Thankfully having a quality judge in the new Chief Justice Mrs Mabel Agyemang, there have been some markedly good improvements these past four years, but sadly the general standards were way higher 20 years ago!

According to our own TCI official government website, our official population as of 2024 is estimated at 49,309. So 32 murders for the year so far is a per capita rate actually double that of the Bahamas, ours being 64 per 100,000! And yet the year is not through. Project forward 25% to year’s end and we shall hit 40, which yields a murder rate of over 80 per 100,000.

Even in Jamaica, which officially leads the whole region, theirs is considerably less at 60.9! By way of further comparison, used-to-benotorious Colombia’s is 25.7 and Mexico’s is at 23.3.

We know our math. TCI is in a crisis. So, sound the alarm again.

RETIRING ALLOWANCES FOR PAST LEGISLATORS

Last week, the House of Assembly passed a motion approving a draft Order that increases the retiring allowances for past legislators by 20 percent.

In July, the House passed the Retiring Allowances, Legislative Service Amendment Bill 2024, making way for the Order to be drafted and passed by the House.

It is now with the Governor to sign to bring it into effect.

The legislation provides increased retirement allowances for former

Good move

The pensions amounts paid to former Legislators have fallen woefully behind over the years. It is a good thing that the Premier has seen fit to try and address the situation. I am not sure, but I hope that the payments are made retroactive to 1st April, 2024, which is the beginning of this current Financial Year, which would result in a small lump sum payment that the pensioners can do well with at this time.

Belonger Elites

The Belonger Elites should take care of itself.

What about ordinary citizens?

“...inequities in the system and provide support for those who had served long before those constitutional changes.” So, what about the ordinary citizens who have served long before?

members of the assembly, and according to the Premier is necessary due to changes in the TCI’s constitution, which had transitioned from a state council to a house with a legislative assembly.

The changes he said were aimed at addressing inequities in the system and to provide support for those who had served long before those constitutional changes.

What are your thoughts?

Misplaced priorities

This September, the Minister of Education, the Premier, his ministers, the 15 MPs plus one nominated member were “proud” to start the school year in a most chaotic, disorganised and illprepared state. They refused or failed to dedicate planning, time, resources, funds and monies to the situation. As soon as the last budget was passed they ought to have engaged the principals of the schools, the permanent secretary and the officials to assess the issues arising in the schools and the problems to be solved so that contractors could be hired from the month of May and works begin ASAP.

Yet despite the money in the budget, virtually “nothing” was done and there is a reign of chaos and “benign neglect” of the educational sector. Next, they reduced fully paid scholarships from 11 to 8. Yet despite this reign of chaos in the education system, the Premier, His Ministers and MPs went into preparation mode to plan, design, prepare a policy and allocate resources of a purely financial nature to take care of retired parliamentarians. It comes from the Book of 1 Timothy 5:18, “for the scripture saith, thou shalt

not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward”. It cannot be unnoticed that this current cadre of MPs will soon be retirees and they are planning for themselves in a manner that they are now for the future, in respect of themselves. It is noteworthy that some former MPs did not enter parliament “broke” and left rich at the country’s expense. These are the dedicated ones, the “chosen few” who should be selected for this kind of pension increase to the intent of 20%. This means there should be a wealth and means test when the Government is thinking of giving a pension to a former MP. If he or she is rich at the time of retirement that former MP should not receive “any further form of government assistance”. That former MP would have benefited enough and “enough should be enough.” A means test should consider the MP’s wealth at the time of entering parliament and their performances. An MP who “did not know what he was doing”, allowing the Permanent Secretary to run his ministry, basically a clueless minister, there for the pensioner, should not get any retirement pension.

PDM is bringing the campaign directly to you – Door-to-door walkabout kicks off in Grand Turk

BY DELANA ISLES

Candidates of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) will be knocking on your doors soon to hear your concerns, gain your support and tell you what they can do for you as your next government.

This week the candidates kicked off their door-to-door meetings in Grand Turk, inviting residents to share their grievances and outlining how the party intends to fix some of their pressing issues as the next administration.

Speaking with the Weekly News on Thursday, September 19, Former Deputy Premier and returning candidate of the PDM, Sean Astwood said the candidates were happy to hit the road running, but that the tone of many of these sessions was marred by the crime

situation in the country and the prohibitive cost of living.

“The party is now going door to door in the different constituencies, and we will systematically be moving from island to island meeting people not just to gain support but to ensure we are addressing the issues that they feel we should be addressing.”

The PDM admittedly has a long way to come from – having lost the government during the pandemic 14-1.

The former deputy premier –who did not win his seat last time, a seat he had won in two consecutive elections prior – said he understood then and understands now that it was a difficult period in the lives of everyone, mid-pandemic, people wanted solutions, and they felt the government of the day could not

The Constitutional “ruse”

The Premier’s promise to take care of former and sometimes dysfunctional MPs is but a ruse, a lark and a flimsy excuse to cater for those MPs who have already sat in parliament for more than two terms to get a pension.

This is really taking care of “NumberOne”, themselves. Fancy and big words that “the legislation provides increased retirement allowances for former members of the assembly, and according to the Premier is necessary due to changes in the TCI’s Constitution, which had transitioned from a state council to a house with a legislative assembly.”

If you understand Turks and Caicos’s history, the fact that serious pensions were introduced long after State Council days, the persons who served then are no longer alive. Pensions came a generation after the time of the State Council, meaning “nothing to do with anything”, you’d realise this Premier is spinning a yarn and hot being entirely forthright with the people. It is a shameless act of selfenrichment for sitting MPs. Those who have money, those who are rich, should have voted against this measure. Those who are sitting there, not exploiting the people, which are few in number, may consider voting for this package. All they are doing is taking care of themselves. Are there any state Council Members alive today? What’s that got to do with anything? What a scam this is and a direct insult to thinking Turks & Caicos Islanders.

offer them those solutions.

“We understand that,” Astwood said.

However, he noted that since that time, the same issues voters were frustrated with and tired of, not only are those issues still present in the country today, but they have also grown to unimaginable proportions, leaving residents terrified and barely scraping by.

“We as a party feel that over the last three and a half years, almost four years now, the people of this country have not been happy.

“They have been stating this on social media, and as we move around this week, when we ask the average person, no matter what political flag they carry, they are not happy, they are not satisfied with the way the government has been running the country and they

Public debate needed

There is an urgent and vital need for a debate on this issue. In his contributions to the motion, Leader of the PDM opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood chastised the government for bringing the draft order for approval for legislators without considering the wider public service. This request by the Hon PDM leader is critical because there are wider, serious and “far more important issues” than giving a helping hand to MPs who should be working on giving a “leg up” to the people.

There are retired public servants and the Leader of the Opposition stated that “he hopes to see something also being done for all other retired public servants, and not just for members of the House of Assembly.” Thinking about it is the public servant who worked over 30 years, at minimum wage rates, never a living wage, on state pension in the TCI but owing to decline of the value of the dollar, inflation, cannot make ends meet. Why not focus on that group first and foremost? They gave the country most of their working lives, 30 years, not eight years, and have more to suffer financially because of inflation. This motion by the Premier and His fellow MPs is cold hearted, half-baked and heartless. With the public involved, in real seminars, meetings, this motion would be dead on arrival because it is selfish and does not make any sense.

want to see change.

“So, we are positioning ourselves to be that alternative but also have real plans on how we will fix some of the issues that are facing the country right now.”

Crime, the border and the economic issues are the things that are concerning the people, he related.

“We have a dynamic where the country seems to be doing quite well economically, but the average person is still struggling and that is something the government has failed to address.”

The candidate said every issue that the PNP would have campaigned on during the last election has gotten progressively worse under their leadership and that is something the voters have shown they are willing to change.

“People are less safe, the nature

of crime is changing and scaring them, their salaries are giving them less buying power, there are more people leaving and going to the UK and US to have a better quality of life, yet the government seems oblivious to the way things are and the mood of the people.”

He said these are the issues the people are bringing to them as they visit their homes.

With two consecutive terms in government already under his belt, Astwood, who has always spoken fearlessly to the issues of the day, said he is confident that the next election, the people will speak, and it will be resounding.

“I believe when the elections come, they will vote this government out because things need to change.” A clear message will be sent, the former deputy leader insisted.

Not adding up

Under the Retiring Allowances (Legislative Service) Ordinance, a retiring allowance shall be paid to any person who has served as a legislator for two full parliamentary terms or for periods amounting in the aggregate to not less than eight years; has ceased to be a legislator.

It speaks to any person. Why not make the pension payable to those who are “not really making it” at the time of retirement? It would then make sense. So many former MPs would then be eliminated from consideration because many of them entered public life “without anything” and left enriched under bizarre and questionable circumstances. Yes, means test them all and the truth will then come out.

The reasons for bringing the measure to benefit persons who have ‘other careers”, perhaps “other pensions” get into parliament, sit for two terms and just entitled to a pension for the rest of their lives? It is called fleecing the public purse and the people, all and sundry. The reasons the Premier noted in his speech do not add up and this measure is really not needed in any way whatsoever. The qualification is having “attained the age of 50 years; or not having attained the age of 50 years, has produced medical evidence to the satisfaction of the Governor that he is incapable by reason of infirmity of mind or body of discharging the duties of a legislator and that the infirmity is likely to be permanent.” Added to this should be a test of those who are doing okay, financially well off and do not need a pension.

Bigger issues afoot

The leader of the Opposition is correct, they (the government) should have been taking care of retired civil servants who really need the money. These are teachers, Police, etc, who worked literally all of their lives and are really getting nothing much in the form of a pension.

Instead of looking at the longforgotten State Council era, nothing to do with today’s realities, focus on public servants who laboured under a payment scheme not based on today’s inflationary realities where prices are out of the roof and people have to borrow to live. What about those public servants who were literally shafted in the most recent so-called salary re-balancing exercise, where MPs, Ministers, and the Premier got huge salary increases and the civil servants at the bottom of the salary scale got a mere 10%, basically “nothing” These are issues to be addressed because fact of the matter is they too are borrowing to live and inflation is “eating them alive” financially. The Premier took a $650,000 salary package and none of his MPs Said anything about it. Is this the legacy of the PNP? Is that what the PNP are in office for? To ‘pad’ themselves with the money cushion and leave the people behind? Where they enrich themselves and leave little ‘on the table’ for those persons who really need the increases? Why not pay the people in the public services at the bottom of the salary scale, who are making “nothing” and literally cannot make “ends meet”?

GT grapples with gastroenteritis outbreak

– Ministry of Health taking decisive action

A sudden outbreak of gastroenteritis has sent ripples of concern through the idyllic island of Grand Turk.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services, at the forefront of the battle against this public health crisis, has released a comprehensive report detailing the extent of the outbreak and the measures being taken to contain its spread.

The outbreak, which initially prompted widespread speculation, has now been confirmed to be caused by two distinct pathogens: norovirus and E. coli.

Laboratory tests conducted on affected individuals revealed five positive cases of norovirus, a

highly contagious virus notorious for causing severe gastrointestinal distress, and one case of E. coli, a bacteria that can lead to similar symptoms, the Ministry revealed in a statement on Friday, 13 September 2024.

Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” is known to spread rapidly through contaminated food, water, and surfaces. Its symptoms, including profuse diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, can be debilitating and may last for several days. While most individuals recover without complications,

Norovirus infographic- Ministry of Health

TCI on track for a recordbreaking homicide rate

The Turks and Caicos Islands are on a grim trajectory, with 32 homicides recorded so far in 2024, threatening to surpass the recordbreaking 34 murders of 2022.

The latest casualty, a suspected homicide in Dock Yard, Providenciales occurred shortly after 11 pm on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.

According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the Police Control Room received reports of a body being found.

Officers and medical personnel responded to the location, and upon arrival, the body of an unidentified male was discovered.

Coupled with this, another man was shot and killed in Wheeland, Providenciales, on Saturday night, September 14, 2024, shortly after 9pm, underscoring the escalating violence plaguing the islands.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Serious Crime Unit has identified Barnabas Norbert as

the victim of the territory’s latest homicide.

Police responded to reports of gunshots near “Phase One” around 9:21 pm and found two males with gunshot wounds.

According to the Communications Officer of the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force, Ms Denyse Renee, Mr Norbert was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other man was rushed to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for treatment.

This incident follows two other fatal shootings within the past week, painting a bleak picture of the escalating crime crisis.

In response to the alarming surge in violence, Vaden D. Williams, former Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment and a current candidate for Electoral District No. 10, issued a statement addressing the urgent crime situation in Providenciales.

Williams emphasised the need

for a multi-faceted approach to curb violent crime and gun-related incidents.

“I seriously believe that the increase in violent crime and gunrelated incidents can be curbed through a multi-faceted approach that also includes enhanced resources and targeted training which are essential for law enforcement to respond swiftly to threats,” Williams stated.

He stressed the importance of active community engagement, not just through traditional community policing but by directly addressing the safety concerns and threats identified by residents. Williams pledged to foster collaboration between local leaders, law enforcement, and residents through outreach programs aimed at building trust and promoting community-driven solutions.

Williams also highlighted the critical role of job creation and youth development programs in reducing crime. He expressed

concern over the limited opportunities faced by young people in Wheeland and across Providenciales, advocating for investment in vocational training, education, and extracurricular activities to provide meaningful alternatives to crime.

“Too many young people in Wheeland and across Providenciales are faced with limited opportunities. By investing in vocational training, education, and extracurricular activities, we can keep them engaged and give them meaningful, alternative avenues to crime,” Williams asserted.

The issue of illegal guns was also a focal point in Williams’ statement, acknowledging the need to address the out-of-control problem. He further emphasized the importance of rehabilitation programs to support ex-offenders and lower recidivism rates.

Williams concluded his statement by acknowledging the

fears of the people and promising strong leadership if re-elected to represent Wheeland, Northwest Central, and West Caicos.

“The fears of our people are valid. They deserve more than empty promises. They deserve real, strong leadership,” Williams declared.

“If re-elected to represent Wheeland, Northwest Central and West Caicos you can be assured that I will tirelessly advocate for stronger security measures and community-driven solutions to restore peace and safety in the constituency and in the wider Turks and Caicos Islands”, he stressed.

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with this escalating crime crisis, the urgency for effective solutions and strong leadership has never been more apparent.

Residents took to social media to lament the level of crime currently facing the TCI and demanded immediate and comprehensive action to curb the violence and restore peace to the islands.

GT grapples with gastroenteritis ...

the virus poses a greater risk to vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

The Ministry of Health, under the leadership of the Hon Shaun D. Malcolm, has sprung into action to address the outbreak.

A multi-pronged approach has been adopted, focusing on both containment and prevention.

Coupled with this, public health officials have launched a rigorous campaign to educate the public about the modes of transmission of norovirus and E.

coli, emphasising the importance of stringent hygiene practices.

Handwashing, a cornerstone of infection control, has been stressed as a critical preventive measure. The Ministry has advised residents to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before handling food. While hand sanitizers can be used as an adjunct, they are not a substitute for proper handwashing.

In addition to personal hygiene, the Ministry has issued

guidelines for food safety and environmental sanitation.

Residents have been urged to cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables before consumption. Those who are ill have been advised to stay home from work or school to prevent further transmission.

The Ministry’s efforts extend beyond public education and hygiene promotion. A team of public health experts is actively monitoring the situation, tracking new cases, and conducting contact tracing to identify potential sources of infection.

This data-driven approach allows for targeted interventions and a more effective response.

Minister Malcolm, in a statement released to the press, expressed his confidence in the public health team’s ability to manage the outbreak. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the highly contagious nature of norovirus but assured the public that the ministry is working tirelessly to mitigate its impact.

“We are committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents,” Minister

Malcolm stated. “Our public health team is well-equipped to handle this outbreak, and we are confident that with the cooperation of the public, we will overcome this challenge.”

The Ministry of Health and Human Services has urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases of gastroenteritis to their healthcare provider.

Residents can also call the Ministry’s hotline at 649-3385469 or visit their Facebook page for additional information and updates.

Police and EMT on the crime scene in Blue Hills

Former Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment, Vaden D. Williams

Say no to the voice of rejection

Lessons from Joseph’s Life (Genesis 37-40)

Being rejected is one of the hardest and most painful parts of life. Rejection leaves us feeling unworthy, defeated, and useless. It can take many forms, children can feel rejected when a parent walks out of the home, being constantly overlooked for a promotion can lead an employee to experience the pangs of rejection, and even being ignored can spur feelings of rejection in a person.

There is one certain thing, rejection challenges our sense of belonging. To live a flourishing life, overcoming rejection is critical. The Bible provides a powerful example of how to do this through the story of Joseph in Genesis 37-40. Despite facing multiple rejections, Joseph maintained his faith in God’s purpose for his life, teaching us how to silence the voice of rejection.

Joseph’s Early Rejection (Genesis 37) If you have basic Bible knowledge, you would know that Joseph’s father, Jacob, loved him so much that he made and gave him a special coat. And yet, Joseph’s journey begins with rejection from his own family. His brothers, fuelled by jealousy over his dreams and their father’s

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

favouritism, sold him into slavery.

Like all rejection, this could have shattered Joseph’s spirit, but he held onto God’s vision as it was revealed to him.

This reminds us that rejection often comes from those closest to us and can cause deep wounds.

It also tells us that rejection and love can exist in the same home.

Jacob, Joseph’s father, treated every one of his wives not named Rachel in a despicable manner, and excluded his other children from his affection. Rejection often is caused by the rejected.

However, it’s crucial to remember that our worth is not defined by others’ acceptance or rejection. Joseph’s example shows us that we must reject the lie that rejection diminishes our value or the dreams God has placed in our hearts.

FACING FALSE ACCUSATIONS (GENESIS 39)

Even when Joseph prospered in Egypt as a slave in Potiphar’s house, he encountered another form of rejection through false accusations. Potiphar’s wife falsely accused Joseph of sexual assault, leading to his imprisonment. Despite this unjust treatment, Joseph remained steadfast in his integrity, refusing to let false accusations dictate his identity or diminish his faith. This teaches us that rejection can sometimes come in the form of being wrongfully judged or misunderstood. In such moments, we are tempted to believe that God has abandoned us. Joseph’s story urges us to stand firm in our faith, knowing that God’s plan is still at work, even when we are wrongly

accused or punished.

FORGOTTEN IN PRISON (GENESIS 40)

Joseph’s journey of rejection continues when he is forgotten in prison. After interpreting the dreams of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker, he asks the cupbearer to remember him once he is restored to his position. However, the cupbearer forgets Joseph, leaving him in prison for two more years.

This phase of his life symbolises those seasons when we feel overlooked and forgotten despite our efforts and faithfulness. In these times, it’s easy to let the voice of rejection convince us that we are insignificant or abandoned.

Yet, Joseph’s response shows us the importance of rejecting this voice and trusting in God’s timing and purpose.

GOD’S PURPOSE IN REJECTION

Joseph’s life teaches us a profound truth: God can use rejection to fulfil His greater purpose. Every act of rejection Joseph faced was a step toward fulfilling the plans God had for him. From being sold into slavery to becoming the second most powerful man in Egypt, Joseph’s story is a testament to God’s sovereignty and ability to turn rejection into redirection. He emerged stronger, more resilient, and positioned to save his family and nation during a time of famine. Joseph’s story encourages us to reject the voice of rejection by embracing God’s truth about our identity and purpose. It’s a reminder that rejection is not the end of the story.

Just as Joseph refused to be defined by his circumstances, we too can find strength in knowing that God sees us, values us, and has a plan for us, even when others reject or overlook us. We are called to reject the negative voices that seek to diminish our worth and instead listen to the voice of God, who promises that we are loved, chosen, and purposed for greatness.

Train your mind to become a better person

INTRODUCTION

You wake up with a thought and you go to bed with a thought. So, your mind is the place that can break you or make you. Therefore, it is important for you to captivate your thoughts to become better and greater. Now don’t just let your mind be full of thoughts, you have to turn those thoughts into action. This is the key. It is a waste of time just to be thinking about something great and not doing anything about it. Speaking about waste, don’t ever waste your mind thinking about unnecessary things and people. Don’t waste it thinking about what people think about you. Don’t waste your mind with evil thoughts. A mind is a terrible thing to waste.

WORK YOUR MIND TO BECOME BETTER AND

GREATER

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.

There is always room for improvement. Do not accept satisfaction or mediocrity. Work your mind to become the best in whatever you do. Every day and every moment you are thinking about something. Take the time daily to review your goals and work your mind on how you achieve those goals. Whatever

thoughts come to you about your goals, dig further into them until what you are thinking becomes a reality. Everything starts with a thought. Let your thoughts line up with what you want. Let your thoughts be positive. Don’t think negative. Don’t think you will not be able to achieve. Believe that you can achieve what your mind is telling you. Don’t take your

thoughts for granted. They are given to you as part of your plan to achieve your purpose. What you do with them matters, and if you don’t do anything with them, you may lose your space. You see, other people may be thinking about the same thing that you are thinking but the difference is they do something with it while you remain in your thoughts and accuse others of stealing your ideas when it may not be the case. I urge you, whatever you do, to make your thoughts a reality; make sure it is legal and right. Don’t do anything out of the way to achieve what you want.

DON’T WASTE YOUR MIND

Sometimes you can waste your mind, just thinking about the past, just thinking about what if, just

thinking about the accomplishments of your friends, or just thinking about the things you did not accomplish. Sometimes, you also preoccupy your mind wondering what people think about you or you are wasting your time thinking about other people. Don’t waste your time. It is not even worth one dollar. Replace wasting your mind on unnecessary things with things that will make your life better.

CONCLUSION

Your mind is a place where ideas are created, solutions are created, and startups are created. Your mind can also be a place where negative and impure thoughts take place. You need to block those negative thoughts and tell yourself each day, I can do better, and I will do better. If you believe in it, you can achieve it.

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

OPINIONS

How would the long-lasting economic shock of war and tensions affect the TCI?

Wars are raging everywhere and many more are brewing, and the outcome is expected to be brutal –not only on the battlefield – but in faraway countries like the TCI.

First, let’s explore these current global phenomena. In Europe, Ukraine is still battling for its sovereignty against Russia’s aggressive invading armed forces from two years ago.

Meanwhile, Gaza is burning, leaving thousands of Palestinians dead and the destruction of their livelihood having propelled the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict into an awful new chapter.

Still, the US and China’s core interests in the Asia Pacific region are colliding and the recent Taiwanese general elections and South China Sea tensions could provoke the thaw.

Don’t forget about the IsraelIran tension, which is intensifying daily, and this too promises to disrupt normalcy worldwide!

BY D MARKIE SPRING

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.

What is even more troubling for the TCI, is the fierce gangs that are tearing Haiti apart, just a few miles away from home. Since President Jovenel Moise’s killing in July 2021, gang violence has mushroomed.

And it seems that diplomacy to end these tensions and conflicts is failing and so, military interventions seem to be the next best option, like Putin, who believes he could rage a war with impunity.

Now, many are asking, “What is really happening in the world

around us?” And “Do you think we can stop the world from falling apart?”

And here at home, we are questioning whether the TCI could weather the storms, which are heading our way!

While we are concerned about brutality and human rights in the conflict zones, it is the socioeconomic and political dimensions of these phenomena, which the TCI should focus on.

Geopolitical risk posed by conflicts within and between states posits adverse effects on global

economic trends to include rising inflation for basic commodities from supply chain disruptions.

Added to the absence of widespread agricultural practices in the TCI this supply chain delay will give rise to food insecurity.

Not forgetting that unsettling trade flows and restrictions can also affect commodity prices and lead to shortages of key resources like oil and gas.

And especially, the TCI tourism economy would take a hard hit; considering that its key target market is Americans, the conflict between the US and China, and the US commitment to providing military aid worth billions to Ukraine and Israel, would punch a hole in the pockets of travelling Americans.

Certainly, this would drive high unemployment; hence, extreme poverty and exacerbating crime, which would eventually lead to political instability.

So, can the TCI avert the impact of these risks? Yes, we can! But two things must happen; in the face of the likelihood of geological risks and the fragmentation of global markets, leaders worldwide must pursue incremental reforms to bolster the international consensus.

And here at home, lawmakers must learn from previous crises and craft a response to the inevitable macroeconomic shock emanating from the international pandemonium, which is headed our way.

And while economies often rebound after a calamitous shock, seemingly, this time around, the aftermath is expected to be worse; therefore, lawmakers must be careful to incorporate monetary and fiscal policy into its national resilience strategy and not mere maximalism, which has become the global trend.

TCIG officials prove they are no good at representing their citizens

Our Turks & Caicos government is neither ‘by the people or for the people’. Yes, we go to the polls, except for those who reside abroad who are, for all practical purposes disallowed from casting votes. Much unlike the citizens of their Overseeing Authority, the British, who readily facilitate this process for their citizens scattered to the four corners of the Earth in their ‘Empire-grabbing’ of everything belonging to others. The current T&C government won in the last election by 14-1, in which the leader, Washington Misick jubilantly claimed on election night to have a mandate to govern. Either he and his government have no idea what ‘mandate’ means or have no interest in what it means. This is because very little has changed since that crowing about mandate and, if anything, things have worsened.

The illegal migrants have come at an even more accelerated rate; the crime and violence have continued unabated; national resources and assets such as our Tourist Board are now in the hands of private entities as this government has engaged in a policy of ‘Sell Baby Sell’; and the fortunes of our people, and especially our young people, have declined even more as

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

they have, in increasing numbers, sought better lives elsewhere by emigrating to, of all places, the UK. One would be led to think this neither ‘by the people or for the people’ governance is solely due to the parasitic overarching British Administrative Authority colonial governance that has been in place in this country for going on three centuries.

That is so, but there is much more. Locally elected representative government willingly facilitates this scenario. And almost always to the disadvantage and ruin of citizens who voted for them. Here’s a case of how:

Some months ago, our T&C Air Traffic Controllers are alleged to have engaged in what has been described as a sick-out protesting their long-unaddressed work

conditions. One of those longtenured Controllers, Roedico Roberts was singled out and abruptly terminated from employment after 22 years of exemplary service that saw not a single write-up by Management; no escalation by Management from verbal warning, written warning, to temporary suspension for work infractions; almost no call-outs from work; and an accumulation of just shy of 100 days of leave (an indication of the seriousness and dedication to which he applied his energy to his job). Yet Roberts was informed that his termination was due to ‘gross misconduct’ on his part. But no one in Upper Management, or government has sat down with, and explained to him what this ‘gross misconduct’ was, or when

it is supposed to have happened.

As such this seems to be a blatant directed attack on the young man’s character and professionalism. The govt at one point, at the ministerial level, met with Roberts after his termination to try to work out some accommodation that could see him back. But even as this was going on Upper Management at his workplace was engaged in a spree of cancelling his work benefits that included medical coverage. This sloppy conduct of the ‘right hand not knowing what the left hand was doing’ had to have not only upset Roberts to no end, but also made him distrustful of the claimed govt effort to work something out.

But here is something shocking about the whole affair. A meeting was held between the govt and the Air Traffic Controllers prior to Roberts termination to address concerns involving salary, improving work conditions, and updating equipment and technology to ensure the best in safety in our country’s airspace. At this meeting were six Controllers and on the govt side was the leader of T&C, Washington Misick, his Vice Premier, the Deputy Governor, and two of his Cabinet Ministers. One of the Controllers suggested to Misick that the

job their group did was highlyspecialised and not anyone could just come in and do what they did. Misick allegedly responded that: no one was indispensable, and that he could bring in ten UK Controllers just like that! Is this the words of a Premier who, along with his party, was elected in an overwhelming majority by T&C citizens? With this response to this Controller by the Premier one has to ask whose interests this man represents. His fellow-citizens who voted in the elections that swept him into office, or the British Government and its citizens in dire need of jobs and available for hiring? Our T&C voting public should keep all this in mind when they next head to the polls to select representatives. The truth of the matter is that, with this comment, the claims of ‘Turks & Caicos for Turks & Caicos Islanders First’, and ‘Turks & Caicos: Beautiful by Nature’ are nothing more than hollow drums beating. To have Misick make this comment to a fellowcitizen as his team of elected and appointed officials sat there silently has to have every T&C Islander questioning who it is local governance serve and represent.

Providenciales secures coveted MICE Award for second consecutive year

In a stunning display of excellence, Providenciales, the beating heart of the Turks and Caicos Islands, has once again claimed the title of Caribbean’s Best Incentive Destination at the prestigious 2024 MICE Awards.

This marks the second consecutive year that Providenciales has outshone its regional competitors, solidifying its position as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) tourism, a statement from Experience Turks and Caicos said this week.

The MICE Awards, a highly

regarded accolade within the industry, recognises destinations that demonstrate exceptional quality and innovation in hosting MICE events.

This year, Providenciales emerged victorious, triumphing over nine other Caribbean destinations in a fiercely contested battle. The award was determined through a combination of votes from both MICE industry professionals and the public, further highlighting the widespread recognition of Providenciales’ appeal.

Providenciales’ success can be attributed to its unique blend

TCIG officials prove they are no good ...

Because if this is what T&C has to lead it to its destiny then we would have gotten lost even before we started. Not a good outlook by any stretch of the imagination for T&C Islanders. But most definitely a suitable situation for the British, who could not be more pleased by such conduct so favourable to them. As to Roedico Roberts, the bitter taste left in his mouth with this grade of treatment after 22 years of dedicated service to his country will not be easily forgotten. But even though he has laid this matter before our T&C Labor Tribunal to resolve, he has refocused and is looking to an alternate future

that, for him, seems to be quite promising. If the March 2, 2024 Termination Letter to Roberts from the CEO for the Controllers stating “in an apparent effort reported ill and therefore not attending work” is the ‘gross misconduct’ he is alleged to have engaged in, the Labour Tribunal should have little problem quickly coming with a ruling. Now as to our country, an important question must be asked. With the loss of in excess of over a hundred years of combined local Air Traffic Controller work knowledge in termination and ‘resignations in disgust’, is our airspace in good hands with what it has been replaced with?

of world-class infrastructure, stunning natural beauty, and a commitment to providing exceptional service.

The island boasts a plethora of luxurious resorts, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and a wide

range of activities and attractions to cater to the diverse needs of MICE groups.

Minister of Tourism, the Hon Josephine Connolly, expressed her pride in Providenciales’s achievement, stating, “This recognition, thanks to the World MICE Awards, is further testament to the strength of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination.

Providenciales, our tourism hub, provides the right ingredients of barefoot luxury, luxury properties, security, and cultural authenticity that companies and organisations are looking for to reward their employees and clients.”

“The Incentive Travel market is a thriving one with 2023 data from

Youngsters to

the Incentive Travel Index showing that 90 percent of companies use it as a tool to retain talent. The market is expected to grow further into 2025.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is well-positioned to capture this growing market as our multiisland destination provides ample opportunities for those looking for that varied experience,” the Minister stressed in a recent statement.

With its winning combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a commitment to excellence, Providenciales is poised to continue its reign as the Caribbean’s top incentive destination for years to come.

participate in

weeklong activities for Youth Week 2024

The theme for National Youth Week 2024 ‘Reclaiming Our Community- Youth Solutions to Violence’ is one that is important to the local community this year given the clear and present dangers the youth of the island are faced with daily.

The Ministry of Education said this year’s observancesSeptember 22 to 27 - will explore various strategies that can be used to mitigate youth violence, underlining the importance of community engagement, education, and the cultivation of resilience.

Education Minister, Hon Rachel Taylor: “By empowering youth to take initiative, communities can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility that is crucial for sustainable change.

“Moreover, youth engagement can lead to innovative problemsolving approaches that are often overlooked by traditional leadership. For example, young people may be more adept at utilizing technology and social media to spread awareness and mobilize their peers, thereby amplifying their impact.”

Key features of National Youth Week 2024 are the upskilling opportunities focused on artificial intelligence and employment.

The sessions will target employable aged youth as well as fourth and fifth formers engaging them in focused panel discussions and breakout sessions promoting interviewing and resume writing skills.

Additionally, there will be a deep dive into how art and music

can be used as a tool for youth to safely express themselves emotionally. This year will also feature the infamous Youth Week speech competition.

A major highlight is the extensive level of collaboration with key agencies that focus on intervention, rehabilitation, and child safeguarding.

Partnering with the ministry this year to conduct the week full of activities are the Departments of Social Development and Welfare, Rehabilitation and Community Services, and the Community Policing Unit.

The Department of Youth Affairs is encouraging the youth and community to support the Family Fun Day commencing with a Peace March to reclaim your community.

Grace Bay beach, Providenciales

Daycare workers trained to recognise abuse in children

The Department of Social Development and Welfare recently concluded a series of child safeguarding training sessions for daycare workers and owners across the islands of Providenciales, Grand Turk, and North Caicos.

Twenty individuals, including daycare workers and owners, were successfully trained during the two-month exercise.

The primary objective of the training was to increase awareness of child abuse and neglect and equip all daycare centres in the Turks and Caicos Islands with the knowledge and confidence to recognise and report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect.

The sessions were also to ensure that all daycare employees were fully aware of the Department of Social Development and Welfare’s procedures for reporting such suspicions and the legal ramifications of failing to do so.

The Department said they will be conducting these trainings throughout the remainder of the year as part of its ongoing child safeguarding initiatives. Upon completion, participants will receive certificates from the Director of Social Development and Welfare.

The Department said in the near future they will be implementing safeguarding licenses for all groups working with children, including but not limited to daycare centres, youth groups, and youth camps.

These licenses will play a crucial role in upholding high standards of care and safety in all settings that serve children.

Department of Social Development and Welfare Hosts Child Safeguarding Training for Daycare Workers and Owners

They said the safeguarding license will ensure that individuals working with children are trained to recognise, prevent, and respond to signs of abuse and neglect. It will also enforce adherence to law mandates for child safeguarding, such as background checks, continuous education, and specialised training.

Facility owners will also be responsible for ensuring that their facilities meet the required

safeguarding standards.

The Department said the initiative is a vital step in safeguarding the well-being of children throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“We will continue to offer support through education, advocacy, and services for those working in childcare settings. Our mission is to foster a safe and healthy environment for every child.”

All food service workers are required to be certified – Environmental Health Department conducting training

A comprehensive training course is now underway for food handlers in the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensuring that essential skills are imparted to all food service workers across the territory.

The sessions – which began on September 4, at Beaches Resort and Spa - are being conducted by trained professionals within the Environmental Health Department.

That session targeted staff at the resort, training 115 food handlers who received essential education and certification in safe food handling practices.

The primary objective of the training is to ensure that all food handlers are knowledgeable in the standards for food safety, hygiene, and sanitation.

The Department said the

sessions are crucial for minimising the risks of foodborne illnesses, maintaining high standards of food safety and ensuring a safe dining experience for all customers.

This week the Department also advised that all food establishments, including restaurants, bakeries, catering, mobile food vendors, retail and wholesale food stores, will be required to have workers who are in possession of a certified food handlers permit, issued by the Environmental Health Department.

This permit will be issued upon completion of the food handlers training programme.

All of the training sessions will cover areas such as proper food storage, personal hygiene, crosscontamination prevention, and safe cooking temperatures.

Participants are engaged in interactive sessions and practical demonstrations of proper handwashing techniques to ensure they fully understand the importance of their role in maintaining food safety.

The Department has commended Beaches Resort and Spa for their ongoing dedication to food safety and their willingness to work collaboratively to achieve these goals.

They promised that the sessions would be offered to all food establishments listed above, ensuring that food handlers across the Turks and Caicos Islands are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to uphold public health standards. (DELANA ISLES)

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Petula Albertha Clammons.

Clammons is a 43-yearold Bahamian native – Grand Bahama Island – with a last known address given as Blue Hills, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

She is wanted by the

Financial Crimes Unit of the RTCIPF and is strongly urged to turn herself in at the nearest police station.

Anyone with information about Ms Clammons whereabouts is asked to contact the nearest Police Station, 911, the Financial Crime Unit at 247-4996, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or the Crime Stoppers P3 app.

Have you seen Petula Albertha Clammons? Call the police

Bahamian woman Petula Clammons wanted by TCI Police

“A nation in crisis”

– PDM says, as murder count

BY DELANA ISLES

On Wednesday, the Opposition took to the airwaves to address the rising crime and murder rate, illegal migration and the drug trade, as well as the lack of action by the government to arrest these problems in the tiny island.

The TCI is now just short of 34 murders – 34, because in 2022 that was the highest number of murders ever recorded in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Yet at midSeptember, the territory is facing a major crisis in violent crimes and drugs, with 32 murders being recorded at the time of press.

In presenting his concerns to the public, Deputy PDM Leader, Robert Been Jr gave grave assurances that the press conference was not about politics and scoring cheap political points. He was adamant that the issues are gravely serious, putting the country on the brink of a crisis.

“Our nation is in a serious crisis, and this is a matter of urgency. We have witnessed 31 murders (at the time of the event) so far this year and we are now on track to surpass the record-breaking 34 homicides of 2022. Just this past week, we lost three more men, gunned down senselessly.”

He said it cannot be ignored that crime in the TCI is closely linked

inches closer to 2022 record

to illegal migration: “Our borders are open and criminal networks are exploiting this vulnerability.

“Criminal gangs, drug trafficking and the influx of illegal firearms are fueling the violence we see on our streets today.”

Been stressed that illegal migration is a national security threat that requires immediate attention.

He said stronger border control measures including advanced surveillance technology and increased patrols need to be

Damarion Palmer shot down while on duty at Club Med

Last Thursday, another young man –19-year-old Damarion Palmer - was shot to death at his work establishment by unknown gunmen.

Shots rang out just before 7pm outside the gates of Club Med in Grace Bay, where Palmer was manning the security hut. He was shot multiple times and died at the scene.

The teenager who resides in Blue Hills, was on duty as a security guard at the resort on September 12, when a small black vehicle with armed occupants opened fire on him, Dean Holden, Superintendent of the Crime, Safeguarding, Public Protection, and Intelligence Unit has

confirmed.

The car then sped off. Officers and medical professionals promptly responded to the scene where they discovered Palmer’s lifeless body at the entry of the establishment.

Holden said an all-points bulletin is still out for the unknown assailants, adding that their preliminary investigations thus far reveal that the attack was isolated and targeted.

“I want to reassure the public that the Royal TCI Police Force is working diligently to bring closure to this incident, and the public will be updated as the investigation progresses.

“While we remain open about

resources, training and manpower for the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force – a promise his party has made before – the TCI streets will be reclaimed.

However, Been acknowledged that this is not enough, that the root causes of crime also need to be tackled.

He believes one of the main causes is the prohibitive cost of living in the Turks and Caicos Islands: “When persons can’t meet their basic needs, struggle to put food on the table, or keep a roof over their heads, desperation creeps in.”

Poverty, unemployment and lack of opportunities are pushing too many young people to a life of crime, Been believes, stating that this is the reality that needs to be addressed.

implemented, and under a PDM administration this will be done as a matter of urgency.

“We must send a strong message to the violent criminals among us. We will no longer tolerate your operations,” the deputy leader said, promising; “A PDM government will support law enforcement and the people in taking back our streets, our neighbourhoods, communities and country from criminal enterprises.”

He said with increased

Been’s statements were fully endorsed by the PDM Leader, Hon. Edwin Astwood.

“Our island, known for its breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture is now marred by an alarming rise in gun violent and crimes,” Astwood lamented, questioning when will enough be enough and decisive action is taken.

“How many families must be shattered before the premier and his government acknowledge the gravity of the situation.”

Astwood also pointed to the recent actions being taken by the TCI Hospitals to suspend visitations to certain parts of the facility when a gunshot victim is being treated, due to the threat posed by these persons.

He questioned how the government can sit back and allow such a system to persist when there are better options.

The party leader said the government has had ample time to address the escalating violence in communities, yet little has been done. “We see little more than empty promises and inactive policies.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands needs comprehensive and strategic approach to combatting crime, one that prioritise safety of all citizens and the wellbeing of our healthcare system.

“To the current government, your inaction is not just disappointing, it is also dangerous to our people,” Astwood insisted.

Other members of the PDM also addressed the media and the public at the press conference, emphasising how they will work individually and together to better communities around the territory, and bring relief to those that are at the centre of the criminal activities and violence that currently plagues the Islands.

Deputy PDM Leader, Robert Been

Damarion Palmer was gunned down at work

TCI police and US Coast Guard intercept major drug shipment

– Commissioner

vows to crack down on crime

In a major breakthrough for law enforcement in the Turks and Caicos Islands, a joint operation involving the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force’s Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) has led to the seizure of a significant quantity of marijuana, estimated to be worth $931,600 on the street.

The operation, which unfolded on the morning of September 16th, east of South Caicos, was triggered by the suspicious behaviour of a small vessel observed in the waters west of the island.

Aerial surveillance pinpointed the vessel grounded on the banks, with three individuals seen fleeing into the surrounding bushes, a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force explained.

Despite the challenging terrain, the TCI Regiment, transported by a USCG helicopter, successfully located and seized five bags containing thirty-eight packages of marijuana, weighing a total of 209 lbs.

At a press conference held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, Mr Edwin Martin, addressed the media and expressed his determination to combat crime in the islands.

“We do believe there are issues

relating to crimes in general,”

Commissioner Martin stated. “We believe that there is definitely a large number of criminal activities, particularly as it relates to the issue of homicides being committed by a small number of people.”

Commissioner Martin emphasised the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies in tackling drug trafficking. “We are working collaboratively with OPBAT (Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos).

“OPBAT is a collaboration by treaty between TCI, the Bahamas, and the United States. Only recently, as recent as yesterday, with the cooperation of a helicopter from the US, we were able to go out and recover 200 pounds of cannabis worth about $900,600.”

He further highlighted recent successes in disrupting drug

smuggling operations, stating, “On the 17th of August, we also recovered 600 pounds of drugs, along with 42 illegal immigrants, totalling about $2.9m. So, in total, we are approaching about $4m in drug seizures, and I’m sure that is taking a hit somewhere with respect to organised criminal activity.”

Commissioner Martin acknowledged the challenges posed by crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands and outlined the police force’s proactive measures. “Currently, as a result of criminality within TCI, the police force has implemented what we consider ‘Operation Might’, which is an operation system that brings the full ambit of the police force to address criminal activity within our sphere. ‘Operation Might’ was launched on the 8th of July, 2024, and we are seeing a lowering of

Durham-Simons appointed as assistant house manager

The Office of the Deputy Governor announce the appointment of Mrs Nichelle Durham-Simons as the assistant manager of the Hon Mahala Wynns Empowerment Home for At-Risk Young Girls in the Ministry of Public Safety.

Mrs Durham-Simons commenced her career at the Turks and Caicos Immigration Department in July 1997, starting as a clerical officer. Just four months later, she was promoted to the Immigration Task Force Unit.

By December 1997, she joined

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), after six months with the Immigration Department. After graduating from the Police Training Academy in Barbados, she returned home in June 1998 to serve as a police constable.

In 2002, Ms Durham-Simons received her Criminal Investigator (Detective) certification from the Regional Barbados Police Training School. She pursued higher education at DeVry University in Orlando, Florida, enrolling in June 2007 to study Criminal Justice. By

April 2009, she had transferred to Keiser University, where she earned an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice and Juvenile Justice. In December 2011, she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement. Continuing her work within the RTCIPF as a senior officer, Mrs Durham-Simons engaged in various departments.

In November 2013, she became

criminal activity.”

While acknowledging a decrease in certain types of crime, Commissioner Martin stressed the need for continued vigilance and a whole-of-society approach to address the issue of homicides.

“Since the implementation of ‘Operation Might’, we have seen a decrease in crime. However, any homicide is one too much, and certainly, the 31 homicides (now 32) that we are experiencing require a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in order for us to stem this tide of criminality within our space.”

In a show of unwavering commitment, Commissioner Martin revealed that even as he was en route to the press conference, he received news of a follow-up operation related to the recent drug seizure. “Only as I was proceeding

here, I got a call to indicate that a vessel and two persons associated with that particular delivery were apprehended. They had dumped the drugs overboard, and that is why we had asked for helicopter assistance from the United States. So, after 48 hours, through the persistence of the police force, we were able to retrieve a vessel and arrest two persons.”

The Commissioner concluded by assuring the public that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to dismantle illegal organisations and maintain the safety and security of the islands.

He urged anyone with information related to this investigation or any other criminal activity to contact the authorities or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Mrs Nichelle Durham-Simons

Bags containing large amounts of marijuana seized (RTCIPF photos)

The operation involved the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force’s Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the United States Coast Guard (USCG)

Property management

Here is a new series of articles that I hope you will enjoy and will guide you with the listing of your short-term property.

My name is Denis Belanger and I have written for years in this journal about garden plants and trees under Nature Splendor, which is now under the banner of Turks and Caicos Villas and Gardens. These articles will also help your guests with the different activities and sports to do, in addition to the places to visit in Turks and Caicos, whether it’s for restaurants, art galleries, souvenir shops, local artisans, decorations, clothing, etc...

In recent years, Airbnb and other platforms have revised the way to welcome travellers from all over the world and here on the islands as well. Whether it’s charming cottages, apartments and even studios, hosts are delighted to share their accommodations, for a business trip, a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a long-term stay, there are hundreds of incredible places to spend a memorable stay in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Preparing a property for rental can be a real challenge, so I suggest you take it step by step. Before everything, ensure that properties are “ready for vacationers”. It is first necessary to do a good photo shoot, as we already know beautiful photos are worth 1000 words and it is also the best way to get more bookings on short-term rental platforms.

Doing business with professionals to do a photo shoot is ideal, you will find different

COLUMN DENIS BELANGER

prices on the market depending on the experience and reputation of the photographer. If your budget does not allow it, however, you can always do a first shoot yourself. Here is what you need to know. Photograph each room and each piece of equipment: Take beautiful photos of each room and each piece of equipment, your online ad must illustrate your rental in an optimal way in order to better inform the potential client and avoid any unnecessary suspicion. For example, if you are renting a two-bedroom apartment then show both bedrooms!

Also, remember to photograph all the bathrooms because they increase bookings by up to 30%.

To create an effective listing, major booking sites such as Airbnb

recommend a minimum of 2-3 photos for each room.

Professional photographers often recommend including more inspiring photos with the most interesting details of your vacation rental. For example, identify the highlights of your interior decoration, remarkable ornaments, unusual objects, local art, and cozy space with careful decoration. List the most “Deco” spaces of the rental to take photos of them and give even more weight to your listing. Ask yourself this simple question: in your opinion, what is the decorative detail that would make people want to stay in your rental the most and that gives it all its character?

Accessibility equipment: Think about highlighting your

accessibility equipment for some of your customers. Rental sites mention the importance of this special equipment which is an important differentiating factor.

Location and surroundings: In addition to your interior, customers will also be interested in the general environment of your rental. So remember to take photos of the exterior of your property, the surroundings and points of interest in your area: Beach, panorama, excursion and activities.

The Ideal Cover Photo: Airbnb photographers also specify that the “cover photo” (used for your online ad) is obviously the most important. Indeed, it immediately sets the tone and distinguishes your ad from hundreds of others. It is precisely this photo that will determine in less than three seconds whether the traveller will click on your ad or not.

To give yourself the best chance, first study your direct local competition. Search for similar accommodations on Google, Airbnb, Vrbo or Booking.com and try to highlight your exclusive assets to generate more interest. So, choose the room or viewing angle that best reflects the charm and uniqueness of your property. But above all, take all the time necessary to take great photos on the day of the shooting.

Good lighting: According to professionals, a photo is always more beautiful with ideal natural lighting. So plan your photo shoot with the best lighting of the day, at a sunny time. The grey sky can impact the photos and give a dark, sad and confined air to your rental.

And according to my friend Simon, you have to take the photos in a panoramic angle to give the best effect.

Make way for the decor: Before starting the photo shoot of your rental, make sure that your rooms are perfectly presentable. Take unparalleled care with cleanliness and tidying as if you were receiving the greatest criticism in the hotel industry. To summarize, your rooms must obviously be clean and perfectly tidy to better render and restore the notion of space and bring more light and clarity, also recommends freeing up surfaces and eliminating any unnecessary clutter to avoid making the room look too cluttered. Put away electrical wires and clothes as well as cleaning products left in the kitchen and bathroom.

Finally, potential customers must be able to project themselves as if they were in their own homes, so avoid extras in your photos and do not use any shots with the photographer’s reflection in a mirror! Photograph your place and nothing but your place.

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 or 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.

Hand, Foot and Mouth disease increasing among school kids

As schools and day-care centres across the territory welcome children back, the Ministry of Health is encouraging parents and educators to stay alert for cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

In a statement this week, the ministry revealed that to date, 16 cases have been identified in school-aged children on the island of Providenciales between July and September.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a common viral illness that typically affects young children under the age of 5 years but can affect anyone.

While it is generally mild, it spreads quickly in environments such as classrooms and playgrounds where kids are in close contact. Hence, it is

important for families and schools to take simple, effective steps to help prevent the spread of the virus.

The Disease is caused by a group of viruses, most commonly the Coxsackievirus.

Parents and caregivers are being urged to keep an eye out for symptoms such as fever, mouth sores that may be small, red spots inside the mouth that can be painful; skin rash – often on the hands, feet, and buttocks, sore throat, loss of appetite and irritability particularly in infants and toddlers.

While recovery is quick (one week) Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, lead to dehydration if eating or drinking becomes painful.

The virus can be passed from one person to another through close contact with infected bodily fluids like saliva, mucus, or stool; touching contaminated surfaces and toys and droplets in the air when someone sneezes or coughs.

This is why schools, daycare centres, and playgrounds are high-risk environments.

PRACTICAL

PREVENTATIVE TIPS

Frequent Handwashing: Regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent HFMD. Children should wash their hands after using the bathroom, before eating, and after playing outdoors. Teachers and caregivers can help by making handwashing a regular

part of the day.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces: Toys, countertops, and doorknobs should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, especially in shared spaces like classrooms and play areas.

Avoid Close Contact: If your child has symptoms of HFMD, it is essential to keep them home from school or daycare. Allowing them time to rest at home prevents the virus from spreading to other children. Make sure they stay at home until their fever has gone down and their sores have healed.

Practice Good Hygiene Habits: Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Remind them not to share utensils, cups, or personal

items with others.

Stay Hydrated: If your child has mouth sores, drinking fluids can be difficult, but staying hydrated is important. Offer soothing drinks like cold water or milk to help them stay comfortable.

In most cases, HFMD will clear up on its own within 7 to 10 days. Take paracetamol ONLY to help soothe the sore mouth or throat. Avoid hot, spicy or salty food.

Antibiotics are not needed. However, if your child is having trouble swallowing, shows signs of dehydration (such as not urinating much), or has a high fever that lasts more than a couple of days, it is time to consult your healthcare provider.

Regional News

Haiti creates council tasked with holding first elections in a decade

Haiti’s government on Wednesday created a provisional electoral council, marking the most concrete step toward reviving the electoral process in years after political turmoil and later violence thwarted previous attempts.

The Caribbean nation is set to hold elections by 2026, a decade after they were last held in 2016.

Under normal circumstances, elections would have been held every five years, but an already rocky political situation in Haiti was exacerbated by the power vacuum caused by the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021 and the nation has gone without a president since.

Armed gangs have also since spread their control over some 80% of capital Port-au-Prince and most other parts of the nation.

The council created on Wednesday already has representatives for seven seats that represent religious groups, journalists, farmers and unions, the prime minister’s office said.

Two other seats, one for human rights organizations and another for women’s rights organizations, still lack a delegate, the office said on X.

The council will be tasked with laying out the legal framework to hold elections and then planning them.

Haiti’s transitional presidential council – a separate body which has been acting as the government since it was installed in April –established the electoral council in a meeting. The presidential council’s mandate expires in February 2026, by when elections must be held.

A previous electoral council

UK Minister open to climate funding for BVI—Premier Wheatley

BVI’s Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said the new UK Overseas Territories Minister, Stephen Doughty, is open to offering climate funding for the territory.

In a joint press conference with Deputy Premier Lorna Smith on Monday, September 16, the Premier discussed the territory’s funding needs following his meeting with the new minister.

“We discussed the threat of

Climate Change and the need for UK support to assist the Virgin Islands with adaptation and mitigation, including through their contributions to the United Nations,” the Premier said.

He confirmed that this issue will be placed on the agenda at the annual Joint Ministerial Council in November, Dr Wheatley continued.

Smith noted that this was a primary reason for their visit, along with engaging with the new

Trump pledges to deport Haitians in Ohio city if elected

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump pledged yesterday to conduct mass deportations of Haitian immigrants from the Ohio city of Springfield, even though the majority of them are in the United States legally.

had been dissolved in 2021 under Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who took office after Moise’s death but was forced out of his post earlier this year after he left the country to seek support for an international security mission and was unable to re-enter Haiti.

In Haiti, executive power is meant to be split between the president and the prime minister. The interim government in May tapped Garry Conille as prime minister.

However, both councils face an uphill battle in bringing stability back to Haiti.

Just Kenya and Jamaica have deployed forces to Haiti so far as part of the U.N.-backed anti-gang offensive, which is set to expire at the start of October if its mandate is not renewed later this month.

The city for days has found itself at the centre of a social media maelstrom after right-wing agitators latched onto false claims that Haitian arrivals were eating household pets.

“We will do large deportations in Springfield, Ohio,” Trump said at a press conference at his golf resort near Los Angeles.

The majority of the 15,000 Haitians in Springfield are there legally. Trump’s longstanding pledge to conduct mass deportations usually refers to those in the country illegally.

Trump did not repeat the assertion he made during Tuesday’s presidential debate with Democrat Kamala Harris that immigrants were eating dogs and cats, remarks that have been widely mocked.

Two elementary schools were evacuated and one middle school in Springfield was closed on Friday after anonymous bomb threats were

made against the community for the second day in a row, according to ABC News.

At the White House, President Joe Biden urged the attacks on the Haitian community to cease.

“It’s simply wrong. There’s no place in America. This has to stop – what he’s doing. It has to stop,” Biden said.

The Biden administration extended Temporary Protected Status to hundreds of thousands of Haitians in the United States in June, a decades-old program that protects legal immigrants from deportation and gives them work permits. Gang wars in Haiti have displaced over half a million people and nearly five million are facing severe food insecurity.

Trump has cited the tensions in Springfield as another example of the need for hardline immigration polices. The influx of Haitians has boosted the economy but also has strained social services.

Haitian community leaders across the United States said the Republican candidate’s remarks could put lives at risk and further inflame tensions in Springfield.

The BVI has been at the forefront of calls for large, wealthy nations that contribute the most to climate change to fund small, developing nations most affected by the climate crisis

government following Britain’s Labour Party’s landslide victory on July 4.

In his keynote address, Wheatley highlighted the weather events the territory faced and its progress in recovery.

“At the event, I shared with them the negative effects of climate

change on the Virgin Islands and also updated them on our recovery after Tropical Storm Ernesto and the two other extreme weather events we experienced prior to that,” the Premier mentioned.

The BVI has been at the forefront of calls for large, wealthy nations that contribute the most

to climate change to fund small, developing nations most affected by the climate crisis. The BVI and other proponents argue that these nations require more support, as climate change poses significant risks to their land and marine resources, which are vital for their survival. (BVInews)

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump

The Caribbean nation is set to hold elections by 2026, a decade after they were last held in 2016.

Regional News

Baha Mar’s $350m luxury hotel to bring 400 construction jobs

Baha mar’s $350m investment in a new luxury hotel is expected to employ 400 Bahamian workers during the construction phase and over 500 Bahamians after opening, according to officials who signed a Heads of Agreement with the government yesterday.

The 350 rooms and 50 luxury branded residences are projected to open in 2029. The project will be built on the demolished Melia Nassau Beach site, which closed in 2021.

The hotel will include a 14,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, luxury retailers, expansive pools, an outdoor bar, entertainment lounges and additional family amenities.

Designed by architecture and design firm Foster + Partners, the hotel will be situated on 12 beachfront acres. It will feature 25,000 square feet of dedicated

indoor and outdoor event space, including a 10,000-square-foot ballroom, 6,000 square-foot junior ballroom, pre-function space, breakout rooms, boardroom and outdoor space.

Officials did not say how many non-Bahamians will work to construct the hotel.

Graeme Davis, Baha Mar’s president, said this new addition will complement what the resort currently offers.

“We’ll have a two-floor penthouse unit on the top of the residence, and we’ll have additional villas set and nestled along the shoreline,” he said.

Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said the signing is a “clear vindication” of the strength and resilience of the country’s tourism industry and economy and a reminder of opportunities ahead.

“With Baha Mar’s expansion,

Durham-Simons appointed as Assistant ...

a school liaison officer with the community police department, where she led the D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Programme. After receiving training and certification in Virginia, USA, she connected with local youths, educating students aged 11 to 16 in primary and high schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands for five years.

Speaking on her appointment, Mrs DurhamSimons expressed gratitude:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my biggest supporters and cheerleaders: my mother Carol Durham, my husband Dwayne Simons, and my sons Jalen, Justin, and Justice! The struggles were real and the road was rough, but you all gave me the strength to push on and keep my dream alive. My goal is to provide at-risk youths with resources that will encourage and empower them to be successful adults.

‘The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He lets me rest in grassy meadows; he

leads me to restful waters; he keeps me alive. He guides me in proper paths for the sake of his good name.’ Psalm 23: 1-3. In all things, I give thanks… GOD, FAMILY & COUNTRY!”

The Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H E Anya Williams stated, “We are happy to welcome Mrs Durham-Simons to this important role as she brings a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to serving our youth and community. Her extensive experience in law enforcement and her dedication to empowering at-risk youth will undoubtedly have a significant impact. Mrs Durham-Simons embodies the spirit of public service and community engagement that we value, and we are excited about the positive changes she will help implement. Together, we can build a greater future for our children and support the growth of our community. Congratulations on your new role Mrs DurhamSimons”.

we are adding crucial room inventory to cater to more guests, bringing more heads in beds, and ensuring that we continue to attract a higher volume of stopover visitors,” he said. “But, as we add these rooms, we must also work in parallel to increase airlift to The Bahamas, ensuring more direct flights, with greater frequency from key international markets is essential to sustaining this growth.”

He said the expansion reaffirms the strength of the government’s relationship with CTF BM Holdings and its parent company.

Tourism Minister Chester Cooper said officials are looking to get more involved in the South American market and are actively in discussions with major airlines that service that area. He said they are also talking to airlines out of the Middle East.

Of the 16

of

Caribbean countries unite against Israeli settlements in UN vote

Caribbean countries voted overwhelmingly to support a United Nations resolution condemning Israel’s continued illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories.

The resolution, which Guyana cosponsored along with the State of Palestine and over 20 countries, calls for Israel to end its “unlawful presence” on Palestinian territory within 12 months.

It also demands that Israel immediately cease all new illegal

settlement activity, evacuate all settlers from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, return land seized since its occupation started in 1967 and allow Palestinians displaced to return to their homes.

Of the 16 Caribbean countries that are members of the UN’s General Assembly, Haiti and the Dominican Republic were the only ones that abstained from voting.

Forty-three nations, most of whom have strong relations with the United States and Israel, abstained.

A total of 124 countries voted in support of the resolution. The US and Israel were among 14 countries that rejected the resolution. Before the vote, St Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador to the United Nations Inga King said the ongoing fighting between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip “continues not only to test the most fundamental principles of international law but also the moral conscience of the international community.”

A heads of agreement (HOA) signing between the Government and Baha Mar for the hotel’s expansion at Rosewood on Wednesday

Caribbean countries that are members

the UN’s General Assembly, Haiti and the Dominican Republic were the only ones that abstained from voting

I’m in control, says Starmer after Sue Gray pay leaks

The prime minister has insisted he is “completely in control” after the BBC revealed a row within government over staff pay.

It has emerged Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of staff, Sue Gray, received a pay rise which means she is now on a higher salary than him.

The story, briefed to the BBC by a number of sources, painted a picture of fractious relationships at the heart of government, less than three months after Labour’s general election victory.

Challenged by BBC South East political editor Charlotte Wright on a spate of off-the-record briefings about Ms Gray, the PM said: “I’m focused and every day the message from me to the team is exactly the same, which is we have to deliver.”

He added: “We were elected on a big mandate to deliver change. I am determined that we are going to do that.”

In interviews with other BBC regional political editors, Sir Keir defended his decision to accept corporate hospitality from Arsenal

football club, saying he could no longer use his season ticket as prime minister.

The Premier League club has made two seats available to the prime minister in the corporate area of Emirates Stadium.

Storm Boris batters Italy after wreaking havoc in central Europe

Storm Boris is battering the northeast and central regions of Italy, days after causing widespread flooding in central Europe.

More than 1,000 residents in the north-eastern region of Emilia Romagna have been evacuated, while towns in the central region of Marche of Italy reported serious flooding and disruption. Two people have been reported missing.

On Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced €10bn (£8.4bn) of EU funding for affected countries.

Von der Leyen made the announcement after meeting the leaders of Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Austria to discuss aid for the flood-hit region.

The meeting was held in the Polish city of Wroclaw, in southwestern Poland, which has been threatened by high river levels for days.

Speaking at a news briefing afterwards, Von der Leyen said: “Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures”.

Her comments came as Italy became the latest country to suffer the fury of Storm Boris – a low pressure system which swept

across Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania and Austria, killing at least 23 people.

Schools across Emilia Romagna have closed. Some roads were impacted by landslides and railway traffic has been severely disrupted.

Authorities warned residents to stay out of their basements and to relocate to the upper floors of their homes.

Schools, libraries and parks were shut in Ravenna, and the University of Bologna cancelled exams and lessons.

The city of Faenza has been the worst-affected, with the levels of the two rivers crossing it rising rapidly overnight.

Residents quoted by local media said they had had to leave their homes in dinghies in the middle of the night. High river levels have also caused the sewage system to overflow.

But authorities in nearby Bologna said on Thursday morning that river levels in the city were under control, although the weather alert is set to continue until Friday for most of the region. Red warnings for flooding and landslides have been issued for eastern Emilia Romagna.

arrangement”, he added. ‘PERMANENT FRUSTRATION’

On Wednesday, the BBC revealed it had been told that Ms Gray asked for and was given a salary of £170,000 after July’s election - about £3,000 more than the PM and more than her Conservative predecessor, Rishi Sunak’s chief of staff.

One source told the BBC: “It was suggested that she might want to go for a few thousand pounds less than the prime minister to avoid this very story. She declined.”

only to discover they would be paid less.

Many of the disappointed advisers blame Ms Gray specifically - although others insist pay is a matter for civil servants.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds dismissed suggestions the prime minister had personally intervened to increase Ms Gray’s salary, saying ministers had “no input” in what their advisers were paid.

He said he had been advised it would cost the taxpayer more in security costs to use his normal seat.

He would “rather be in the stands”, but accepting a corporate ticket was a “perfectly sensible

But others in government have spoken passionately in Ms Gray’s defence, and believe there is a misplaced, grossly unfair and deeply personal campaign against her.

Her salary has proved particularly controversial partly because other advisers believe they are being underpaid.

Most were expecting pay rises when they entered government,

“There’s a process that exists, it’s a civil service process, it hasn’t changed. It’s wrong to say there’s any kind of political input in there or people set their own pay bands.

“I don’t even get to set the pay for my own advisers... I think there are and always have been officials who are paid more than politicians in our system and that hasn’t changed,” he told BBC Breakfast.

Mr Reynolds acknowledged that leaks about issues in government such as Ms Gray’s pay were “annoying” and “a permanent frustration”. (BBC)

Falconara on the Adriatic coast has seen 204mm (8 inches) of rain since Wednesday, well over September’s average of around 67mm. Over 300mm of rain were recorded over the Apennine mountain region.

The rain will ease through Friday, and the weekend is looking largely dry but as seen in other parts of central Europe, the flooding risk may continue.

For residents of EmiliaRomagna, Storm Boris echoes the severe – and deadly - flooding the

region faced just over a year ago.

In May 2023, 13 people died after six months’ rainfall fell in a day and a half, leading to more than 20 rivers bursting their banks.

Tens of thousands of people had to flee their homes and the flooding caused billions of euros of damage.

Although the worst of Storm Boris appears to be over across much of the region, the levels of the Danube River are still rising in Hungary. Prime Minister Victor Orban said on Wednesday the water level in Budapest was expected

to peak on Saturday afternoon or evening, but that it would be lower than record levels seen in 2013.

The recent events in central Europe fit with expectations of more extreme rainfall in a warming world, although it is not yet possible to quantify exactly how much of a role climate change has played.

However, climate scientists have been warning for years about extreme rainfall events like these occurring as the planet warms. (BBC)

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer

Faenza is one of the worst-affected cities in Emilia Romagna

Interest rates held at 5% but ‘on the path down’

Interest rates are “now gradually on the path down”, the Bank of England governor has said after borrowing costs were held at 5%.

Andrew Bailey said inflation had “come down a long way” but warned the Bank would need to see more evidence that it will remain low before cutting rates further.

The decision to hold rates comes as prices continue to rise slightly faster than the Bank’s target, with inflation remaining at 2.2% last month.

Experts are predicting the Bank will cut rates further in November. There are two more interest rates decisions this year.

The decision to hold interest rates, which was widely expected, follows a cut from 5.25% in August - the first reduction since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.

“I think interest rates are going to come down, I’m optimistic on that front,” Mr Bailey said.

But he said it was “vital” that inflation remains low. “So we need to be careful not to cut too fast or by too much,” he added.

The base interest rate dictates the rates set by High Street banks

and other lenders.

The higher level has meant people are paying more to borrow money for things like mortgages and credit cards, but savers have also received better returns.

Higher interest rates push mortgage rates up. This can result in landlords raising their rent to cover higher repayments.

Sofia and her husband James are among those affected. They moved with their one-year-old son to Berkshire after their rent went up by £100 a month to £1,650 in May 2024.

They moved to a smaller terraced house where they are paying £1,400. They have a joint income of £54,000 and say they cannot save for a deposit to buy a house.

“When I went on maternity leave, I could only go off for about 10 weeks because we just couldn’t afford any more. Even that was a major stretch to the point where we had to put ourselves into a bit of debt,” Sofia said.

She added food banks helped them and sometimes her husband had to work from home as he did

The decision to hold rates comes as prices continue to rise slightly faster than the Bank’s target, with inflation remaining at 2.2% last month

not have the money to put fuel in the car.

The Bank said the decision to hold this month was “guided by the need to squeeze persistent inflationary pressures” out of the UK economy. It expects inflation to rise to around 2.5% towards the end of this year, but it also suggested the country’s economic picture was improving.

It said it had received reports of a “improving real incomes” and added mortgage approvals had increased to their highest level since September 2022 – the month of former Prime Minister Liz Truss’s infamous mini-Budget,

which led to soaring mortgage rates.

While the impact of two giant global shocks - the Covid pandemic and the Ukraine war - on consumer prices have died down, prices are still rising faster than the Bank’s 2% target.

Mr Bailey said the two inflation shocks had “passed through” the economy.

He said: “We’ve beaten the problem that…we saw in these huge global shocks. They appear to have left fewer...aftershocks behind them. Probably all of us feared they would.

“I think probably confidence is

rising.”

But the UK’s economic recovery has been muted. The strong growth in the first half of the year has slowed, with consumers holding back due to high prices.

The Bank warned while there was “improved sentiment and expectations” of increased economic growth, it expected weaker expansion of 0.3% between July and September, down from 0.4%.

The UK has had sluggish economic growth in recent years, something which the new Labour government has pledged it will change. (BBC)

Hezbollah’s Nasrallah says Israel’s Lebanon attacks crossed ‘all red lines’

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah says the pager and walkie-talkie attacks against its members in Lebanon and Syria this week crossed “all red lines” and the group will retaliate and is undeterred in its fight against Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza.

In his first televised speech since the unprecedented attacks, which took place over two days and killed at least 37 people, Nasrallah on Thursday called them a “big blow in terms of security and humanity” but said they have failed to bring the group to its knees.

The blasts, which the Iranbacked group blames on Israel, wounded more than 2,900 people, of whom 287 are in a critical condition, and have heightened fears that 11 months of neardaily exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel will escalate into all-out war.

In keeping with many previous attacks, Israel has yet to admit responsibility or comment on the blasts.

In recent weeks, Israeli leaders

Dozens of persons were killed by the pager and walkie-talkie attacks

have stepped up warnings of a potential larger military operation against Hezbollah, saying they are determined to stop the group’s fire to allow tens of thousands of Israelis to return to homes near the border with Lebanon.

As Israeli jets carried out sonic booms over Lebanon during his

speech, Nasrallah called Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s simultaneous explosions a “terrorist act” and a “declaration of war” against the people of Lebanon and the country’s sovereignty.

He conceded the attacks were “unprecedented in the history of the resistance movement in

Lebanon” as well as “in the history of our country” and “our enemy”.

But Nasrallah said Hezbollah would continue supporting Palestinians in Gaza “no matter what the consequences are, what the sacrifices are, what scenarios will unfold”.

“From October 8 until now,

the Israeli forces did not pull out any of their military personnel in the north,” the Hezbollah leader said in the speech, warning that Israelis who have evacuated from the area would not be allowed to return.

He said the devices exploded inside hospitals, markets, homes and several areas where civilians were present and Israel had “wilfully” targeted 4,000 pagers and 1,000 walkie-talkies with the aim to kill as many people as possible.

He added that some of the attacks took place in hospitals, pharmacies, marketplaces, commercial shops and even homes, private vehicles and on public roads where thousands of civilians, including women and children, are present.

Nasrallah also stressed the assaults were partially foiled as “many devices were out of service, turned off [or] kept away”.

He added that what happened did not impact the group’s command, control or infrastructure.

CLEANER

KITCHEN

LANDSCAPER

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

least

• Must have at least 8 years post qualification experience and be registered with the Health Practitioners Board

• Remuneration structure available on request

TCI commemorates International Coastal Clean-up Day with island-wide efforts

In honour of International Coastal Clean-up Day, on Saturday last, the Turks and Caicos Islands proudly participated in the 11th

annual nation-wide initiative to protect its pristine coastlines and marine ecosystems.

Residents, students, businesses and community groups joined the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) for a day of action aimed at preserving the natural beauty that makes our Islands a global treasure.

Organised by the DECR the clean-up day saw volunteers combing beaches, bays and mangroves to remove plastic debris, fishing gear and other pollutants harmful to wildlife and coral reefs.

Minister of Tourism and the Environment, Hon Josephine Connolly, applauded the enthusiasm of the volunteers, noting the event’s importance: “The

Turks and Caicos Islands are renowned for our stunning coastlines and vibrant marine life. Protecting these resources is not just about today – it is about ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of our islands. The outpouring of support from the community demonstrates how deeply we care for our environment”.

In Providenciales the Bight Park Beach Day was a resounding success this past weekend, bringing together families, friends, and organisations working towards a safer and healthier environment for us all.

Hosted at the scenic Bight Park, the event was a funfilled day of beach cleanup, activities, music, and

Candidates will focus on providing exceptional guest service, maintaining the property, and ensuring a smooth, welcoming experience for our guests. Fluency in English is required, and preference will be given to those with previous resort experience.

All applicants must be able to present a clean Police Record if offered a position. Wage commensurate with experience. Individuals must be willing to work holidays and weekends on a flexible schedule dictated by business demands.

environmental awareness.

Sponsored by the DECR, the day highlighted the importance of preserving the Islands’ natural beauty – this was beautifully expressed through the official unveiling of the new mural, The Octopus Garden, painted by volunteer Hernan Jurado Quintero (Visions4Nature), and sponsored by Andaz Resort and Grace Bay Paint and Supply.

The DECR said in a release, that it would like to extend “a big thank you to Dive Provo and Experience TCI for sponsoring great prizes!”

The Department would also like to thank the following organisations for assisting in making the Bight Park Beach Day great success: Department of Agriculture; Department of Gender Affairs; - Department of Youth Affairs; Red Cross TCI; Salt Raker Swim Club & the TCI Swim Federation; Turks and Caicos Reef Fund; Levenia Bishop; Turks and Caicos National Trust;TCI Whale Project and TCI Turtle Caicos Pine Recovery Project.

International Coastal Clean-up Day, spearheaded by the Ocean Conservancy, is

the world’s largest volunteer effort for ocean health. Each year, thousands of coastal communities around the globe participate in clean-up efforts to raise awareness of the importance of reducing marine litter and preserving the health of oceans. For more information about how to get involved in future clean-up efforts or to learn more about sustainable practices in the TCI, please contact the DECR at environment@gov. tc or follow us on Instagram (@decrtci) or Facebook (@DECR Education and Outreach).

MASON PAINTER

in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc. salary commensurate with experience.

BLACKJACK DEALERS/DICE DEALERS

Salary $9.00-$16.00/ hour

All candidates should have at least 2-3 years of experience in the same field, excellent full knowledge of all casino table games and excellent knowledge of Blackjack table game and/or dice game. Job summary: carry out specific tasks in the gaming operation to the highest standard of efficiency and customer service in accordance with gaming policies and procedures set by the company and gaming laws.

LABOURER

Salary $8.00 - $9.00/ hour

Must have several years kitchen helper experience, stock refill, cleaning experience of the full casino with knowledge of covid requirements and be physically fit. Also provide routine building cleaning and maintenance including painting, sanding, lifting, and moving heavy equipment.

VACANCIES

NOTICE

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

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.

LEGAL

SECRETARY

GRIFFITHS &

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• The successful candidate must have excellent IT skills (experience with document management systems is essential), be highly organised and willing to operate in a dynamic environment. The role will involve core secretarial skills and administrative support.

• Candidates should have computer proficiency with office software including MS Office.

• Must be 18 years or older.

• Must be fully vaccinated for COVID 19.

JOB EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience as a Legal Secretary is essential with a minimum of at least 12 months, with references.

• Experience in the operation, practices and procedures of a law office.

• Demonstrated ability to manage a large workload including completing multiple tasks to deadlines.

• Must be proactive and able to work both independently and with a professional team.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Griffiths & Partners offer competitive remuneration for this role. We will also offer training, mentoring and support to help professional development, and a friendly and collegiate work environment. Salary range $2,500.00 per calendar month depending on experience.

Closing date for application is 14 October 2024.

YOSHI SUSHI BAR

Grace Bay, Provo, Tel: 649-941-3374 yoshigranvia@gmail.com

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.00 p/h

cleans and sanitizes kitchen equipment, assists in basic food preparation

WAITRESS $8.00 p/h

Take and serve food and drink orders.

EDISON BROOKS

Blue Hills Tel: 649-243-7422

HELPER $8.00 p/h

Clean outside the property, pick up out side waste

COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION #53, P. O. Box 68, Blue Mountain, Provo Tel: 231-0337

CARPENTER $8.00 p/h build and repair structures and other items.

KEYSTONE CONSTRUCTION

Blue Mountain Rd, Provo STEELMEN $9.00 p/h laying out and fabricating structural steel in order to build metal structures THE GLAMOUR BEAUTY CENTER

VACANCIES

Leeward Highway

$8.00 hrly

Cutting men & women hair

WENDY INNOCENT Millennium Highway 342-4688

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste MAX TAILOR SHOP 347-7899 South Dock TAILOR

$9.00

Make men and women clothing, alter clothing

CATER 2U 241-4286

Kew Town CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning equipment rental such as table, chair, sofa, light, & etc.

REEZT PLUBMING 241-3247

Kew Town

$10.00

Install and repair water heating and drainage systems.

WILBY ALEXIS 345-7759 Kew Town

$8.00

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

LADDER 343-1294 Wheeland HANDYMAN

$9.00 maintain apartment complete maintenances.

FERNANE & SUDARSANAM KOMMALAPATE

244-2527

Wheeland

BABYSITTER

$8.00

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

SARAFINA DELVA 341-2327 Blue Hills

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my children, bath them, feed them, change diaper and monitor them

NIKISHA LUNES Lower Bight 342-7598

DOMESTIC CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning the house, wash dishes, wash clothing, iron, cook and care for my family.

MIDJIE BON A PETITE RESTAURENT Airport Road 342-7897

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.00

Preparing the workstation for the cook, sorting and distributing ingredients, keeping the kitchen clean, pick up waste.

MASON MASON MAINTENANCE

CLEANER

TEACHER CLEANER

DOMESTIC WORKER

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest

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.

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS SPORTS COMMISSION

Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies Telephone Land (649)338-7704

JOB VACANCY

SPORTS PROGRAMME MANAGER

This is a senior professional position with the accountability to develop and coordinate the delivery of sports recreational and fitness programmes and events that cater to both local and international stakeholders. He/she must foster and maintain a professional working relationship with all stakeholders, sporting bodies, the business community and promote the holistic embodiment of the Company’s mission and vision.

The post holder develops and promotes programmes that captivate the interest of youths involved in sporting activities to build the capacity of athletes to perform at their peak and include sustainable physical activities for adults and the elderly. He/she must promote the inclusion of women in sports, people with special needs, and other underrepresented groups to increase participation and must work to identify potential sources of funding to strengthen programme delivery and its outcomes.

The post holder must have excellent communication, administrative, strong managerial, interpersonal, project, programme management, and event planning skills in the coordination and development of sporting events and activities on a large scale.

Five to seven years of professional experience is required in the field including managerial, project management, logistics, and event planning experience within the sporting environment. He /she must have the ability to collaborate effectively with National Sports Governing Bodies, must have advocacy, negotiation, and leadership skills, a track record in planning, programme development, implementation, evaluation, and a sound knowledge of financial and people management skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management or related field (essential).

• Certificate in Project or Events Management (desirable).

• Certification in various sporting disciplines (desirable).

EXPERIENCE:

• Seven or more years’ experience in sports work, sports development programmes, or sports management and event planning.

• At least 5 years in supervisory level.

• At least 3 years working with young people.

• Experience in budgeting and planning. All relevant combinations of qualifications and experience will be appropriately assessed.

SALARY:

$50,000 - $63,221 plus relevant allowances

Note: This post is currently filled by a work permit holder.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Candidates are required to submit resumes with current contact information including a Cover Letter, two letters of reference from most recent employers, copies of educational certificates, copy of Passport photo page, copy of NIB Card, Copy of NHIP Card, National Turks & Caicos Islander Status Card (where applicable). Shortlisted candidates must submit a Police Certificate. The Successful candidate must be in good health and will be required to submit a complete medical from a Certified medical practitioner.

Applications should be addressed to The Director, TCI Sports Commission, Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Down Town, Providenciales. Applications can be hand delivered, or sent by email to: tcisportsrecruitment@gov.tc

Hand delivered applications must have clear identification marked on the envelope and the Job Title of position being applied for. On emailed applications, the subject line must reference the Job Title.

Applications without supporting documents will not be processed

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

LABOURER

CARPENTER

BABYSITTER

NANCIE JOSEPH-CAMPBELL

PHILO JEAN FRADEUS

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.

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Domestic Worker consists of cleaning, Laundry and organizing rooms

• Able to work with little or no supervision, be physically fit, dependable and hardworking.

• Must be self-motivated and able to understand, write and speak English fluently.

• Salary: $8.00 Hourly

PHOTOGRAPHER & EDITOR

•

•

• A minimum of 5 years experience as studio manager

• Excellent photography softwares knowledge and expertise

• Must be available to work on weekend, holidays and at nights as required

• Salary will be based on experience.

CLEANER

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR

CHEF

• Must have at least 5 years experience cooking Columbian and Venezuelan Cuisine

• Must have CPR and food safety certification

• Must have a valid driver's licence.

• Must be willing to clean and prepare meals as needed

• Must speak English and Spanish

• Salary $10 per hour.

experience in garment pressing

• with emphasis on specialty items; wedding gowns,

• cocktail dresses, drapes, suits etc.

• Excellent finishing quality and efficiency is required.

• Must be able to stand for long hours

and manage hot

• working conditions.

• Must be fluent in English and be a team worker.

• All applicants will be required to demonstrate skills.

• Pay is dependent on pieces pressed per

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.

• Supervise and monitor contractor compliance with design specification and drawings for all assigned projects.

• 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.

• Procurement of supplies and parts as well as maintenance of inventory and requisition process, billing and reporting.

• Contract and manage the design and execution.

• Manage document control and ensure project documents are completed timely and filed properly within project management software and database.

• Responsible for establishing and maintaining relationship with Purchasing, IT hotel operations, Suppliers, Contractors; closely monitoring process and coordination of resources.

• Participate in all project and engineering meetings.

• Assist in new project design and scheduling.

• Preparation of project contractor tender packages and vetting.

• Contract administration for preventative maintenance programing.

• 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.

• Thorough understanding of all types of mechanical equipment, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems, waste treatment, power, water and fuel consumption

• 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:

• Must have a passion for combining elixirs and creating extraordinary cocktails.

• Possess the principles of food and wine pairing to elevate guest dining experience.

• Supervise daily operations of the bar(s) and ensure beverages are mixed and served according to the standards.

• Manage the bar’s beverage program and make occasional changes to ensure an up to date product offering and attractive presentation.

• 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.

• Maintain service areas stocked according to par levels set by the head of department.

Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service

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

• Anticipate guests needs in order to deliver exceptional quality of service and in turn guest satisfaction.

• Promote and maintain good public relations.

• Motivate and maintain good staff relations to improve service performance.

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

• To participate in and assist in developing training programs for staff to elevate service standards.

• 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

• West Certification

• WSQ Food Hygiene Certification

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

• Must have good written and oral communication skills.

• Must be able to efficiently and effectively resolve guest complaints.

• Knowledgeable of daily food and beverage operations.

• Maintain a good relationship with vendors of Indigo restaurant.

• Must be able to schedule staff according to hotel occupancy.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Hospitality Management degree/Financial, Business and/or or equivalent experience, with a passion for customer service

• 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.

Compensation: $25k - $30k Per Annum

DRESSMAKER

BABYSITTER

IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Advising on complex commercial matters including running own caseload from inception to conclusion

• Advising lenders and borrowers on financing transactions

• Advising on securitization and providing capacity opinions

• Registration of security, vessels, and aircraft

• Drafting and advising upon finance documentation

• Building a team and mentoring and training junior attorneys and trainees and engage in business development

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 10 years’ PQE (or 8 years’ PQE if preceded by a pupillage or training contract with a specialist commercial practice) in a Commonwealth jurisdiction.

• Experience of substantial commercial matters, including financial services, securities transactions, banking, and finance.

• Experience of acting on acquisition financing, refinancing, and development financing

• Proven drafting skills on complex commercial transactions

• Demonstrable experience of acting for high net worth and institutional clients

• Demonstrable business development skills and a hunger to grow a credible high value practice

• Demonstrated ability to manage a large workload including completing multiple tasks to deadlines

• Must be pro-active and able to work on complex high value transactions both independently and with a professional team

• Experience and willingness to mentor and train junior attorneys and trainees is essential

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates should have a law degree from a leading University

• Must have relevant professional qualifications, be admitted to practice in the Turks and Caicos Islands (or eligible for admission)

• The applicant must have a minimum of 10 years’ relevant experience in practice

• Computer proficiency with office software including MS Office

• Professional references

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Griffiths & Partners offer competitive remuneration for this role. We will also offer support to help professional development and a friendly and collegiate work environment. Salary range is up to $120,000 + per annum depending on experience.

Closing date for application is 4th October 2024.

• In search of a skilled person to work in stone fabrication

• Starting Salary $10.00 per hour.

• Duties:

• Must have 5 years experience and show proficiency with cutting and polishing natural and man made stone according to specifications

• Must be able to assist the foreman in charge at warehouse and on job sites

• Must be able to read blueprints, lay out job plans, operate all tools associated with stone

• fabrication, rally other coworkers and follow directions from supervisors.

CAICOS DREAM TOURS

WATERSPORTS OFFICE MANAGER

Reporting to the Owners and Inbound/Outbound Manager. Responsible for running the company, ensuring the safe hire of boats and other guests.

DUTIES

• Manage programs of activities at the company

• Develop and manage all HR processes relating to your staff

• Develop training policies and ensure all staff and volunteers are appropriately trained in safeguarding

• Ensure resources are up to date and available to all instructors to deliver high quality sessions and courses

• Ensure the premises and all equipment is maintained at adequate standards and used appropriately

• Manage booking process with Admin Team including approving new bookings and ensuring session do not clash

REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to speak English, Spanish, and French

• Must have 5 years experience in Human Resources and Office Management

• Must have a University Degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management or related field

• Must be willing and able to work weekends and holidays

Be available to work 8:30 am -5pm five days a week. Weekends and holidays required.

Starting salary $15, hourly

Assistant Manager Service & Support, Trainee Scotia Center Branch, Retail Banking

Job Grade: 6.2

Annual Salary: $52,550 – 85,300

The Assistant Manager Service & Support is responsible for leading the customer service team to achieve overall branch operational efficiency and effectiveness. He/ she oversees the delivery of front-line customer service and administrative processes necessary for delivering the desired customer experience and ensures the branch presents a professional image. This includes ensuring adherence to Bank security procedures and meeting financial objectives related to team referral and sales goals by providing ongoing monitoring, coaching and performance feedback throughout the year to instill the desired behaviours. This further includes expense management with daily and periodic management controls in place and effective, as well as achieving other objectives related to customer service, other personal objectives related to teamwork and personal development, human resource management and operational effectiveness. As the leader of the customer service team, the incumbent also has a primary responsibility for completing service management activities in the branch. You are responsible for contributing to the provision of human, straightforward and knowledgeable service through your daily interactions to create a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with our customers and other employees.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Champions a customer focused culture to deepen client relationships and leverage broader Bank relationships, systems and knowledge.

• Leading the service team in alignment with Service Management Disciplines

• Effectively manage team to respond to and resolve customer service inquiries and concerns across all segments

• Understand how the Bank’s risk appetite and risk culture should be considered in day-to-day activities and decisions.

• Actively pursues effective and efficient operations of their respective areas, while ensuring the adequacy, adherence to and effectiveness of day-to-day business controls to meet obligations with respect to operational risk, regulatory compliance risk, AML/ATF risk and conduct risk, including but not limited to responsibilities under the Operational Risk Management Framework, Regulatory Compliance Risk Management Framework, AML/ATF Global Handbook and the Guidelines for Business Conduct.

• Champions a high performance environment and implements a people strategy that attracts, retains, develops and motivates their team by fostering an inclusive work environment; communicating vison/values/business strategy and managing succession and development planning for the team.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• College degree in Banking/Finance or related field

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• 3+ years of supervisory/management experience.

Qualified candidates should submit their resume via email to hr.tci@scotiabank.com on or before September 23, 2024.

****Note: Only persons shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.

COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

The individual will possess these MINIMUM QUALIFICATION

• Must be a practicing Born Again Christian

• At least five (5) years Post qualification teaching experience

• At least two (2) Years’ experience in school Administration

• Bachelor Degree in Education or equivalent from an accredited institution

• Teacher Certificate / Diploma from a recognized Educational Institution.

• Must have a working knowledge of the A-Beka Curriculum

• Must be familiar with Primary Education within the Caribbean.

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

The individual will possess these MINIMUM QUALIFICATION

Must be a practicing Born Again Christian

At least five (5) years Post qualification teaching experience

At least two (2) Years experience in School Administration Bachelor’s Degree in Education or equivalent from an accredited institution

Teacher Certificate / Diploma from a recognized Educational Institution. Must have a working knowledge of the A-Beka Curriculum

Must be familiar with Primary Education within the Caribbean.

ASSISTANT TEACHER

- Discussed at interview (First time)

• Getting the classroom ready for lessons. Helping teachers to plan learning activities and complete records.

COMPENSATION:

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Invites suitably qualified persons for the position of THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY AT COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP CENTRE, A.O.G. LEEWARD HIGHWAY, P.O. BOX 939, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. E-MAIL:

MINIMUM

• Minimum of M.B.B.S. or a Medical Doctor Degree from an accredited University

• Minimum of 5 years work experience in a Primary Health Care setting and a minimum of 3 years working in a Secondary Health Care institution

• Minimum of 5 years registered Medical Practitioner on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

•

examinations

• Diagnosis and treatment of illness/ ailments

• Manage acute and chronic illnesses, patient education

• Order laboratory/ diagnostic tests

• Perform minor procedures

•

•

Science & Technology

Exercise may help you store fat better, new research suggests

Exercise doesn’t just help you lose fat. It could also promote healthier fat, according to a new study.

“Living a physically active lifestyle, exercising regularly over time, makes our fat tissue a more accommodating place for extra energy under conditions when we do gain weight,” said senior study author Dr Jeffrey Horowitz, professor of movement studies in the school of kinesiology at the University of Michigan.

To see how exercise impacts fat tissue, researchers compared fat tissue just under the skin from two groups of 16 people with obesity: those who reported exercising at least four times a week for at least 2 years, and those who did not exercise regularly, according to the study published Tuesday in the journal Nature Metabolism.

Those who had a history of regular exercise had fat cells that showed characteristics that increase how much fat they can store — the amount of blood vessels, protein composition and fewer inflammatory cells, Horowitz said.

It is important that the fat tissue under the skin has a greater capacity so that if a person does gain weight, it can go there instead of more dangerous places, such as the heart or liver, he added.

“Unfortunately, most of us, even regular exercisers, gain weight as we get older,” Horowitz said. “If

Exercise is important for the body

we have a greater capacity to store that in our fat tissue, less of it’ll go to our liver, less of it will go to our heart, less will go to all these other places that in excess can be really problematic.”

This study shows that researchers need to learn more about fat tissue and how it is connected to metabolic health and lifestyle changes, said Dr Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National

Cognitive decline reduced by MIND diet, especially for women and Black people, study finds

Following the MIND diet for 10 years produced a small but significant decrease in the risk of developing thinking, concentration and memory problems, a new study found.

The Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay diet combines elements from the traditional Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH diet, which focuses on reducing blood pressure.

The MIND diet was specifically designed to combat cognitive decline, said lead study author Dr Russell Sawyer, an assistant professor of clinical neurology and rehabilitation medicine at the

University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute.

“Among the MIND diet components are 10 brain healthy food groups — green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, seafood, poultry, olive oil and wine,” Sawyer said in an email.

Five unhealthy food groups — red meats, butter and stick margarine, cheese, fried and fast foods, and pastries and sweets — are limited in the MIND diet, which helps reduce the intake of trans and saturated fats, Sawyer said.

“The MIND diet has all the key features — notably an emphasis on

Jewish Health in Denver. Freeman was not involved in this study.

“Just being overweight may not be the whole story,” he said.

BETTER FAT TISSUE

Many people have an immediate negative reaction to the word “fat.” But that isn’t always helpful, Horowitz said.

“Fat tissue itself is very, very important for health,” he said. “It’s actually an important reservoir of

our extra energy.”

The tissue used to be understood as only functioning to store energy, but researchers are just starting to learn it has many functions, Freeman said. “It makes sense to have some degree of fat so you have some reserve, but not to the point that the typical American has,” he said.

The goal isn’t more fat tissue, but better capacity to store it, Horowitz said. Fat tissue is supposed to be

stored under the skin, and if it can’t go there it’s going to go other places such as your liver, heart or pancreas, he added. More fat in those organs impede how well they function, Horowitz said.

EXERCISE RECOMMENDATIONS

They key takeaway of the study is that healthier fat storage is just another good reason to live a physically active life, Horowitz said.

“We’re not changing the recommendation, but we’re expanding the understanding of why it is helpful to exercise,” he said.

If you want to start, Freeman recommends trying out exercise first thing in the morning.

“It works as a natural stimulant, just as well as coffee in many cases,” he said. And you don’t need to worry about getting to or paying for a gym.

“There are so many ways to exercise, and figuring out a way to make it part of the daily routine so it becomes a habit, is the most critical of all,” Freeman added.

Getting 30 minutes daily of breathless activity where you are working really hard is the goal, but you can start even by walking around your block, he said.

“Of course, you should check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe,” Freeman said. (CNN)

Science & Technology

Superbug crisis could get worse, killing nearly 40 million people by 2050, study estimates

The number of lives lost around the world due to infections that are resistant to the medications intended to treat them could increase nearly 70% by 2050, a new study projects, further showing the burden of the ongoing superbug crisis.

Cumulatively, from 2025 to 2050, the world could see more than 39 million deaths that are directly attributable to antimicrobial resistance or AMR, according to the study, which was published Monday in the journal The Lancet.

Antimicrobial resistance happens when pathogens like bacteria and fungi develop the ability to evade the medications used to kill them.

The World Health Organization has called AMR “one of the top global public health and development threats,” driven by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial medications in humans, animals and plants, which can help pathogens develop a resistance to them.

The new study reveals that when it comes to the prevalence of AMR and its effects, “we expect it to get worse,” said lead author Dr. Chris Murray, director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington.

“We need appropriate attention on new antibiotics and antibiotic stewardship so that we can address what is really quite a large problem,” he said.

OLDER ADULTS BEAR THE BURDEN

The researchers – from the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance Project, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation and other institutions – estimated deaths and illnesses attributable to versus associated with antimicrobial resistance for 22 pathogens, 84 pathogen-drug combinations and 11 infections across 204 countries and territories from 1990 through 2021. A death attributable to antimicrobial resistance was directly caused by it, while a death associated with AMR may have another cause that was exacerbated

by the antimicrobial resistance.

About 520 million individual records were part of the data to make those estimates.

The researchers found that from 1990 to 2021, deaths from AMR fell more than 50% among children younger than 5 but increased more than 80% among adults 70 and older – trends that are forecast to continue.

It was surprising to see those patterns emerge, Murray said.

“We had these two opposite trends going on: a decline in AMR deaths under age 15, mostly due to vaccination, water and sanitation programs, some treatment programs, and the success of those,” Murray said.

“And at the same time, there’s this steady increase in the number of deaths over age 50,” he said, as the world ages; older adults can be more susceptible to severe infection.

The researchers found that the pathogen-drug combination that had the largest increase in causing the most burden among all age groups was methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. For this combination –the antibiotic methicillin and the bacteria S. aureus – the number of attributable deaths nearly doubled from 57,200 in 1990 to 130,000 in 2021.

Using statistical modeling, the researchers also produced estimates of deaths and illnesses attributable to AMR by 2050 in three scenarios: if the current climate continues, if new potent antibiotic drugs are developed to target resistant pathogens, and if the world has improved quality of health care for infections and better access to antibiotics.

The forecasts show that deaths from antimicrobial resistance will increase by 2050 if measures are not in place to improve access to quality care, powerful antibiotics and other resources to reduce and treat infections.

The researchers estimated that, in 2050, the number of global deaths attributable to antimicrobial resistance could reach 1.9 million, and those associated with

Antimicrobial resistance happens when pathogens like bacteria and fungi develop the ability to evade the medications used to kill them

antimicrobial resistance could reach 8.2 million.

According to the data, the regions of the world most affected by AMR and attributable deaths are South Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and sub-Saharan Africa – and many of these regions don’t have equitable access to quality care, Murray said.

“There are still, unfortunately, a lot of places in low-resource settings where people who need antibiotics are just not getting them, and so that’s a big part of it. But it’s not just the antibiotics. It’s when you’re sick, either as a kid or an adult, and you get sent to hospital, and you get a package of care, essentially, that includes things like oxygen,” Murray said.

“In low-resource settings, even basics like oxygen are often not available. And then, if you are very sick and you need an intensive care unit, well, there’s big parts of the low-resource world – most of them, actually – where you wouldn’t get access to that sort of care,” he said. “So there’s a spectrum of supportive care, plus the antibiotics, that really make a difference.”

But in a scenario where the world has better health care, 92 million cumulative deaths could be averted between 2025 and 2050, the researchers forecast. And in a scenario where the world has new, more potent drugs, about 11 million cumulative deaths could be avoided.

‘THERE IS POSSIBLE HOPE ON THE HORIZON’

The “innovative and collaborative” approach to this study provides a “comprehensive assessment” of antimicrobial resistance and its potential burden on the world, Samuel Kariuki, of the Kenya Medical Research Institute, wrote in a commentary that accompanied

the new study in The Lancet.

Yet he warned that the forecast models do not consider the emergence of new superbugs “and might lead to underestimation if new pathogens arise.”

Overall, “these data should drive investments and targeted action” toward addressing the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance in all regions of the world, Kariuki wrote.

The new paper represents decades of research on the global burden of antimicrobial resistance, said Dr. Steffanie Strathdee, associate dean of global health sciences and distinguished professor at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, who was not involved in the study.

Strathdee saw firsthand the effects that antimicrobial resistance can have on health when her husband nearly died from a superbug infection.

“I’m somebody who’s lived with antimicrobial resistance affecting my family for the last eight years. My husband nearly died from a superbug infection. It’s actually one of the infections that’s highlighted in this paper,” said Strathdee, who serves as co-director of the Center for Innovative Phage Applications and Therapeutics at UC San Diego.

During a Thanksgiving cruise on the Nile in 2015, Strathdee’s husband, Tom Patterson, suddenly developed severe stomach cramps. When a clinic in Egypt failed to help his worsening symptoms, Patterson was flown to Germany, where doctors discovered a grapefruit-size abdominal abscess filled with Acinetobacter baumannii, a virulent bacterium resistant to nearly all antibiotics.

The annual number of people dying from gram-negative bacteria, like A. baumannii, that are resistant to carbapenem – a class of last-

resort antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections – rose 89,200 from 1990 to 2021, more than any antibiotic class over that period, according to the new study.

“That’s one of the urgent priority pathogens, which is one of these gram-negative bacteria,” Strathdee said. “And my husband, when he fell ill from this, he was 69. So he’s exactly at the age that this paper is highlighting, that older people are going to be affected by this more in the future, because our population is aging and people have comorbidities, like diabetes, like my husband has.”

Strathdee’s husband recovered after treatment with phages, viruses that selectively target and kill bacteria and that can be used as a treatment approach for antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections.

“The most important alternative to antibiotics is phage therapy, or bacteriophage therapy, and that’s what saved my husband’s life,” Strathdee said. “Phage can be used very effectively with antibiotics, to reduce the amount of antibiotics that are needed, and they can even be used potentially in livestock and in farming.”

The new study gives Strathdee hope that the world can reduce the potential burden of antimicrobial resistance. That would require improving access to antibiotics and newer antimicrobial medications, vaccines, clean water and other aspects of quality health care around the world, she said, while reducing the use of antibiotics in livestock, food production and the environment, which can breed more resistance.

“There is possible hope on the horizon,” Strathdee said. “If we were to scale up these interventions, we could dramatically reduce the number of deaths in the future.” (CNN)

Science & Technology

Coffee could be more than a morning pick-me-up, according to new research

A morning cup of coffee may do more than just perk you up, according to new research.

Moderate amounts of caffeine intake — defined as about three cups of coffee or tea a day — were associated with a lower risk of developing cardiometabolic multimorbidity, said the study’s lead author, Dr. Chaofu Ke, associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at Soochow University in Suzhou, China.

Cardiometabolic multimorbidity, or CM, is the coexistence of at least two cardiometabolic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

“Coffee and caffeine consumption may play an important protective role in almost all phases of CM development,” Ke said.

Researchers analysed data from about 180,000 people in the UK Biobank, a large biomedical database and research resource that follows people long-term. Those involved did not have cardiometabolic diseases at the outset.

The information included the participants’ self-reported caffeine consumption through coffee or black or greentea and the cardiometabolic diseases they

developed through their primary care data, hospital records and death certificates, according to the study published Tuesday in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Moderate caffeine consumers had a reduced risk of new onset cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

The risk was reduced by 48.1% if they had three cups a day, or 40.7% if they had 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine daily, compared with people who didn’t drink or drank less than one cup, Ke said.

The study had a large sample size and used multiple biomarkers to support the findings, making

it a strong look at how caffeine affects heart health, said Dr. Gregory Marcus, associate chief of cardiology for research and professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. He was not involved in the research.

“These observations add to the growing body of evidence that caffeine, and commonly consumed natural substances that contain caffeine such as tea and coffee, may enhance cardiovascular health,” Marcus said in an email.

WHAT RESEARCHERS DON’T KNOW

The methodology is strong and the

results line up with existing data about caffeine and heart health, but there are still questions about the extent of the connection between caffeine and heart health, Marcus said.

“It is important to emphasize that, while these data suggest a relationship between caffeine, tea, and coffee and a reduced risk of a combination of cardiovascular diseases, we need to be careful before we infer true causal effects,” Marcus said.

Because the study is observational, it can only show a connection between caffeine and heart health, he said. Other factors may actually be the cause of the improved heart health, he added.

“It remains possible that the apparent protective effects do not truly exist at all and that the positive associations are all explained by some as yet unknown or unmeasured true determining factor,” Marcus added.

“For example, perhaps those more likely to consume these substances also tend to have a healthier diet or to be more physically active.”

The study also didn’t take into consideration the impact of caffeine from carbonated beverages or energy drinks, meaning that researchers can’t say whether those substances would also have

a positive effect, Ke said.

SHOULD YOU START DRINKING COFFEE?

Plenty of literature shows a benefit from caffeine consumption.

Several studies have suggested a lower risk of diabetes, Marcus said. And contrary to popular wisdom, drinking caffeine in coffee is associated with experiencing a lower risk of abnormal heart rhythms, he added, pointing to his and others’ research.

But much of that research is observational, and one study showed a mixed result, with more caffeine linked to additional daily step counts but less sleep, Marcus said.

Although the new study should provide comfort to those who already have a coffee or tea habit, it isn’t necessarily a sign to start a regular caffeine routine, Marcus said.

“It is also important to mention that more is not necessarily better,” he said.

“Even if caffeine, coffee, and tea in the amounts described in this study … are indeed healthy, there is also strong evidence that highdose caffeine, particularly when included in artificial concoctions like energy drinks, may actually cause harmful and even dangerous heart rhythm problems.” (CNN)

Cognitive decline reduced by MIND diet, especially for ...

real food, mostly plants — required to reduce systemic inflammation, facilitate weight loss, improve the health of the microbiome, ameliorate insulin resistance, lower elevated blood lipids (fats), and slow atherogenesis (clogging of arteries),” said Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine who founded the nonprofit True Health Initiative, a global coalition of experts dedicated to evidence-based lifestyle medicine. He was not involved in the study.

“That such effects would translate into protection of the brain is anything but a surprise,” Katz said in an email. “This study of association does not, by itself, prove that the MIND diet protects cognitive health, but given the clear mechanisms in play, it certainly suggests it does.”

A LARGER BENEFIT FOR WOMEN AND BLACK PEOPLE

The study, published Wednesday in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, is part of an ongoing study called REGARDS, or Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke. Sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, REGARDS was created to examine why Southern American and Black American people have a higher incidence of stroke, and it has been following about 30,000 adults age 45 and older since 2003.

Of the more than 14,000 people in the study, 70% were White and 30% were Black. At the start of the study, and again at 10 years, participants were asked about their dietary intake and underwent electrocardiograms, blood pressure measurements and blood work.

Researchers then scored the diets on higher adherence to MIND diet parameters: eating more than three servings of whole grains per day, consuming more than six servings of green leafy vegetables each week, eating at least one other vegetable each day, eating more than two servings of berries each week, having a fish meal more than once and poultry more than twice a week, and eating beans more than three times per week. Eating nuts and using primarily olive oil were also scored more highly.

People who ate red or processed meats less than four times a week, fried or fast food less than once a week, and less than a tablespoon of butter or margarine a day were also scored higher.

People who followed the MIND diet more closely were 4% less likely to develop memory and thinking problems than those who

did not adhere to the diet, the study found. The finding remained even after mitigating factors such as exercise, education, smoking, body mass index, medical conditions, age, and anxiety or depression were factored out.

For women, the risk was even less — they were 6% less likely to develop cognitive impairment. Men, however, saw no such benefit, the study found.

When it came to how quickly those with such memory and thinking issues declined, the study found that people who closely followed the MIND Diet regressed more slowly than those who did not. That association was stronger in Black participants than in White participants, Sawyer said.

“These were surprising findings,” Sawyer said. “The benefits of the MIND diet may have a differential impact in women and

Blacks and this is an area for future research.”

MORE RESEARCH NEEDED

A 2023 randomised controlled clinical trial found the MIND diet no better than the control diet in reducing signs of cognitive decline in the brain. However, experts were concerned the trial was not long enough to fully capture results.

“The three years follow up, while admirable for a randomized clinical trial provides less insights about the long-term benefits of diet compared to the 10+ years of follow up in our study,” Sawyer said.

In addition, only 66 people in the clinical trial were Black, which limits “the generalizability of this randomized control study compared to our cohort study, though both offer important information,” he said. (CNN)

Sports International

LIV’s Brooks Koepka was included in the US team as a wildcard pick last year

LIV golfers allowed in US Ryder Cup team, PGA says

Golfers who play on the Saudibacked breakaway LIV Golf tour will be allowed in the United States Ryder Cup team, the PGA of America has announced.

LIV players will also be able to compete at the PGA Championship.

Golfers must be members of the PGA of America to be considered for the Ryder Cup and the body has now added LIV to its list of “approved tours”, giving those players membership.

“Going forward, all LIV Golf players are eligible for the PGA Championship and any American player who qualifies for the Ryder Cup on points or is added to the US team as a captain’s pick is eligible to compete,” the body said.

LIV’s Brooks Koepka was included in the US team for the biennial tournament against Europe as a wildcard pick last year,

but only because of a grace period that was in place following golf’s split.

The PGA and Europe’s DP World Tour announced a “framework agreement” for a merger with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund - which backs LIV - last year. However talks are still ongoing to repair the fracture in men’s golf.

LIV players can qualify for the European team but they need to have retained their membership of the DP World Tour and played in four of the organisation’s events.

They may incur penalties for playing on the LIV tour without a waiver from the European tour, but remain eligible if they settle those sanctions.

The Ryder Cup between Europe and the United States will be played at Bethpage Black in New York next September. (BBC)

Gauff splits with coach after poor results and disappointing US Open performance

Coco Gauff has parted ways with her coach, Brad Gilbert, following a series of poor results culminating in a failed defense of her US Open title.

The world No. 6 lost in the fourth round of the US Open to American Emma Navarro, who had also bested her in the fourth round at Wimbledon just months before.

Gilbert was part of a coaching team that helped Gauff ramp up her form in 2023 to claim her first grand slam with victory at last year’s US Open, as well as titles in

England lose to Australia in netball series opener

The first game of England’s threematch Test series in Australia ended in a 70-57 defeat by the world champions in Adelaide. Australia remained in control throughout the game, only being outscored in the third quarter, 1815.

The Roses, who were denied a first World Cup by Australia in last year’s final, remained competitive throughout despite fielding an inexperienced side that included debutant Lois Pearson, but never led at the end of any quarter.

England last defeated the 12time world champions in the pool stage of last year’s World Cup in Cape Town.

Their last meeting came in January when the world number ones narrowly defeated the Roses at the Nations Cup.

“We had chances to come back, especially in that third quarter,” England captain Helen Housby told Sky Sports.

“We showed glimpses of some really good stuff, it is now just about solidifying our combinations

and get used to playing at this level, as a lot of our girls haven’t played at this level.

“We showed some really good stuff and need to be more consistent.”

The second game will be played in Sydney on Sunday, with the final fixture taking place in Bendigo, Victoria, on Wednesday.

England will then travel to New Zealand for another threematch series, which starts on 29 September in Auckland. (BBC)

Cincinnati and Washington.

However, Gauff had suffered a series of early defeats in the current season after making the semifinals at the French Open and Berlin, getting knocked out in Wimbledon, the third round of the Olympics, the second round of Toronto and the first round of Cincinnati before her loss in Flushing Meadows.

“Mentally and emotionally, I gave it my all,” Gauff told reporters after her loss to Navarro.

“But there’s things execution-wise, where obviously I wish I could

serve better. I think if I would have (done) that it would have been a different story for me in the match.

Gilbert paid tribute to Gauff on X – formerly known as Twitter –on Wednesday, writing: “Thanks to Coco Gauff and the entire team for an absolutely amazing summer

run in 2023 and for 14 months of incredible team effort.

“Coco, at just 20 years young, your future is incredibly bright, and I wish you nothing but continued success ahead. I’m excited for the next chapter in my Coaching career,” he added.

Gauff returned the gesture, writing: “We had an incredible run and I wish you all the best in the future!”

The 20-year-old was able to defend her Auckland Classic title this year and made it to the semis of the Australian Open. (CNN)

Beth Cobden won a Commonwealth Games gold with England in 2018

Gauff lost to Emma Navarro in the fourth round of this year’s US Open

Sports International

WNBA is returning to Portland, Oregon, with latest expansion team in 2026

The WNBA is returning to Portland, Oregon, starting in 2026.

The new expansion franchise will play its home games at the Moda Center in downtown Portland and become the WNBA’s 15th team, the league announced Wednesday.

“As the WNBA builds on a season of unprecedented growth, bringing a team back to Portland is another important step forward,” WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement. “Portland has been an epicenter of the women’s sports movement and is home to a passionate community of basketball fans.”

The yet-to-be-named club will be owned and operated by RAJ Sports, led by controlling owner and WNBA governor Lisa Bhathal Merage and alternate governor Alex Bhathal.

“For decades, Portland has been the global epicenter of sports

lifestyle and today, we are now the global epicenter of women’s sports,” Merage said in a statement. “We believe in the transformative power of women’s sports and are thrilled that the W will call Portland home. We know that Portland’s vibrant and diverse communities will highly support and rally around this team.”

The Bhathal family has more than 50 years of experience in professional sports, serving as investors of the NBA’s Sacramento Kings and controlling owners of the NWSL’s Portland Thorns.

The city previously had a WNBA team – the Portland Fire –from 2000-2002 before it folded.

During those three seasons, the Fire were 37-59 and never made the postseason.

“Portland has a passion for women’s sports and the teams who play in the Rose City, making us the ideal home of the next WNBA team,” Oregon governor

Tina Kotek said in a statement.

“From the Thorns to the Rose City Rollers to the Sports Bra, Portland embraces a diversity of athletes and fans. This is an exciting new chapter for our city and our state.”

US Senator for Oregon Ron Wyden also welcomed the move.

“Today puts basketball fans in Portland and all across Oregon solidly in the ‘W” column,” he said in a statement. “Our city and entire state have consistently set the gold standard for supporting women’s sports, and I’m thrilled the Bhathal family is expanding

its commitment to women’s sports locally by bringing Portland a much-deserved WNBA franchise.”

The 12-team league has expanded by adding two more teams in the past year.

The Golden State Valkyries are set to begin play in 2025 while a team in Toronto, the league’s first franchise to be based outside of the US, will tip off in 2026.

In April, Engelbert said the WNBA’s goal is to have 16 teams by 2028.

“We’re on our way to 16,” Engelbert said at the time. “That will

add 48 roster spots in just a couple of years. That, in a league of 144, is a lot. That’s 30 percent. I think it’ll be great when we get those done over the next couple years.”

The WNBA’s 28th regular season concludes Thursday. With the arrival of rookies Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, along with two-time league MVP A’ja Wilson of the defending back-to-back champion Las Vegas Aces, the league has set records in viewership, attendance and merchandise sales this year. (CNN)

Captain Stokes to have scan before Pakistan tour

Ben Stokes will have a scan on his hamstring injury next week as England wait on the captain’s fitness for the first Test in Pakistan.

The 33-year-old was hurt at the beginning of August and missed the 2-1 series defeat of Sri Lanka.

Stokes has been netting throughout his lay-off, including a long net at Durham’s Chester-leStreet last week, and has this week been playing in the Celebrity ProAm at the PGA Championship golf at Wentworth.

The scan is planned as part of monitoring the all-rounder’s recovery, rather than a reaction to any setback to the injury.

The first Test in the three-match series is due to begin on 7 October.

At the beginning of September, Stokes told ESPN Cricinfo he would be cautious with his return, rather than rushing back and risking further damage.

“I’d rather take an extra two weeks than run the risk of

potentially doing something worse and then putting myself out of the game for longer,” he said. “I’m just making sure that I’m doing everything right and everything I possibly can to try and give myself

a chance to being fit for that first Test.”

Despite the injury, Stokes has been named as captain of the 17man squad which will depart on 1 October.

If Stokes is ruled out of the first Test, Ollie Pope would continue to deputise as captain. In Stokes’ absence from the Sri Lanka series, England opted to cover for the allrounder by moving wicketkeeper

Jamie Smith to number six and playing an extra bowler.

The scenario of Stokes only being able to bat would potentially leave England with a selection decision.

If they were to continue with the balance they favoured against Sri Lanka, England would have to bat Stokes in the top five, therefore squeezing out one of their regular top order.

To avoid that scenario, England could revert to four frontline bowlers, supplemented by Joe Root’s off-spin, a tactic they favoured when Stokes was unable to bowl because of a knee injury in India earlier this year.

Meanwhile, there is still no clarity on the venues for the three Tests, despite England travelling in less than two weeks.

The matches were due to take place in Karachi, Rawalpindi and Multan, but building work in Karachi is likely to leave that stadium unavailable.

The WNBA awarded Portland, Oregon, the league’s 15th franchise starting in 2026

Ben Stokes was injured playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred

Wimbledon expansion given planning boost

The All England Club has received a boost to its plans to build 39 new tennis courts on Wimbledon Park.

Officers at the Greater London Authority (GLA) have recommended the Deputy Mayor should grant conditional planning permission at a public hearing next Friday.

Merton Council approved the plans, but the proposal was referred to the GLA after Wandsworth Council rejected the scheme last November.

Officers say the proposal complies with most relevant planning policies and there are “no material considerations that are considered to justify the refusal of consent”.

They admit there will be a loss of open space, and harm to protected Metropolitan Open Land, but conclude the “balance is clearly in favour of” approving the scheme.

The All England Club’s plans include 39 new tennis courts and an 8,000-seater stadium on Wimbledon Park.

The extra courts would allow Wimbledon qualifying to take place on site - in line with the other three Grand Slams - and the All England Club has also promised to create a new 23-acre public park in the spirit of the original design of landscape architect Capability Brown.

There has been local opposition from groups such as Save Wimbledon Park, which fears the area will become a “huge industrial tennis complex”.

The full planning hearing will take place at City Hall in London on Friday, 27 September, with a

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decision possible later the same day.

The decision rests with Jules Pipe, the deputy mayor of London, as the Mayor Sadiq Khan excused himself from the process having publicly expressed his support for the plans in 2021.

The deputy mayor’s decision may not signal the end of the process. Angela Rayner - the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government - could also decide to call the application in, and hold a fresh planning hearing.

The All England Club hopes to build 39 new tennis courts on Wimbledon Park

Sports National

Billy

Forbes is the TCI’s leading goal scorer

Forbes recognised as “Most Famous Living Person” in TCI in social media post

National football captain Billy Forbes was recognised as the “Most Famous Living Person” by President of the Caribbean Employers Confederation Wayne Chen this week in a social media post.

Chen, who is also a member of the CARICOM’s Human Resource Development Commission, selected persons from 29 Caribbean countries (English, Spanish and French). He did not give his criteria for selection, nor indicate his measurements. Nevertheless, the Jamaican did select a number of big names, including Usain Bolt from Jamaica, Rihanna from Barbados, Gloria Estefan from Cuba, Wyclef Jean from Haiti, Kirani James from Grenada, Eddy Grant from Guyana, Nicki Minaj from Trinidad, Bad Bunny from Puerto Rico and Tim Duncan from USVI.

TCIFA to host Walk-Run-Ride fundraiser this weekend

The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA), will host its Walk-Run-Ride fundraiser this Saturday in Providenciales.

The event which will see participants walk 5k, run 10k and cycle 37k is set for a 6am start.

Raducanu reaches Korea Open quarter-finals

Great Britain’s Emma Raducanu moved through to the quarterfinals at the Korea Open by beating China’s Yue Yuan in straight sets.

Raducanu, 21, seized control of the match by winning six successive games to wrap up the opening set and then take charge of the second.

The 2021 US Open champion, ranked 70th in the world, eventually took her seventh match point to win 6-4 6-3 and reach the last eight in Seoul.

Raducanu will play Daria Kasatkina for a place in the semifinals on Friday after the Russian top seed beat American Hailey Baptiste 6-4 6-2.

“I think these courts suit [Kasatkina] because they bounce quite a bit,” Raducanu said.

“But for me, every time I get exposure to that top level of opponent, it’s invaluable. It allows me to build confidence. It’s a match where I don’t really have anything to lose.”

Yue, the world number 40, recovered an early break in the opening set but Raducanu landed another blow in the ninth game before taking her first set point on serve.

Having come from 4-3 behind in the first set, Raducanu maintained her momentum at the start of the second, establishing a 3-0 advantage with a quick-fire double

break either side of holding serve to love.

The Briton’s charge to the finish line was slowed as Yue reduced the deficit to 3-2; but, with her opponent growing in confidence, Raducanu saved a break point to hold serve in a crucial sixth game.

After breaking Yue’s serve for a third time in the set, Raducanu was unable to take any of her first five match points as she attempted to serve out the contest, before Yue clinched her fourth break point in an epic eighth game.

Unfazed, Raducanu recovered from that frustration to complete a hard-fought victory on Yue’s serve. (BBC)

Footballer arrested in connection with almost $800k worth of cannabis seized at airport

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, a soccer player who used to play for Premier League giant Arsenal, has been arrested after $795,300 (£600,000) worth of cannabis was seized at a British airport, the Carlisle Magistrates court confirmed to CNN.

Late registration is scheduled to take place 30 minutes before the start of the event.

The route starts and ends at the FA’s National Academy. For more information, contact the FA at +1-649-9465532.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) said on Wednesday that a 33-year-old man had been detained earlier that morning in Gourock, Scotland, on “suspicion of orchestrating the attempted importation of cannabis” through London’s Stansted Airport.

Emmanuel-Thomas – who also used to feature for current Premier League side Ipswich Town –currently plays for Scottish secondtier club, Greenock Morton.

CNN has contacted EmmanuelThomas and Greenock Morton for

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas

comment. The NCA said EmmanuelThomas was taken to Carlisle in England to be questioned. He appeared in court on Thursday in Carlisle accused of importing class B drugs. His bail was refused

and he will next appear in Carlisle Crown Court on October 18. Both were charged with drug importation offenses by the NCA and were bailed to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on October 1.

Emma Raducanu began the year ranked 285th in the world

Omar’s Cricket Club marched their way to the title this season

Omar’s CC win cricket title

An unbeaten half-century from Rohan Hines and solid bowling from Dane Ritchie spurred Omar’s Cricket Club to victory in this season’s Turks and Caicos Islands

Cricket Association (TCICA) Senior Men’s Cricket Competition.

In the much-anticipated clash last Sunday at the Downtown Ball Park, GK Foods won the toss and

opted to take first strike.

A few of their batsmen had starts, but none played a match-winning innings as the side succumbed to 109-7 from their allotted 20 overs.

Richie led the bowling attack with 4-15 from his four overs, while Robert Johnson 1-12 from

four and Marlon Turner 1-18 from four, lent support.

GK Foods were led by Rajakumar Kasi with 24 (3x4s, 1x6) and Ashok Kumar with 15 runs (3x4s).

Needing just 5.5 runs per victory, Hines was in scoring mode

as he carved out 65 not out to lead his side to 111-5 from 14.3 overs. Ariharan Kuthalingham and Kasi finished with two wickets each to lead GK’s bowling attack. For his exploits with the bat, Hines finished as the Man-of-theMatch.

Rohan Hines’s dominance propelled him to the Man-of-the-Match award

Ashley Brooks continues to shine in Brazil, where he is playing for the Sergipe Redentores in Aracaju in the Brazil Football Association. Brooks recently told the Weekly News that he is “gaining confidence with every game”