TC Weekly News September 22 - 29, 2023

Govt writes off $10.5m for TC Invest/TOLCO loans

BY OLIVIA ROSE

A monumental move by the TCI government to write off a whopping $10,588,637.41 in TC Invest/TOLCO loan portfolios, has lifted a massive financial burden off the shoulders of 176 families in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

On Thursday, September 14, the House of Assembly was filled with an air of elation as Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Investment and Trade Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders piloted a historic motion to completely erase the colossal debt, freeing families from the “shackles of the past”.

In introducing the motion, Saunders stressed that debt forgiveness is not about policy, “but about people – about humanity” and giving people their lives back.

He said: “It’s not about numbers, loans, or financial transactions Mr Speaker – it’s about lives, it’s about the hardworking Turks and Caicos Islanders who have been held back by this debt.

“This motion is about giving Turks and Caicos Islanders a chance to rise, to dream, to hope, and to build a life they can be proud of.

“It’s about the weight of a financial burden, the shackles of past decisions, and the struggle to make ends meet by some of our people”, he added.

In his impassioned speech,

Saunders underscored the lifechanging impact the decision will have on the lives of those affected, stressing that the TC Invest/ TOLCO loan portfolios are not just “data on a spreadsheet, but that they represent Turks and Caicos Islander families grappling with this debt”– for over two decades.

“I am talking about real people, with real dreams, stifled by real challenges… this motion is our chance, as policymakers, to create a future (a brighter future) for 176 Turks and Caicos Islander families – giving them a shot at success, relieving them of the weight of this debt, and most importantly ensuring that it doesn’t stifle their dreams of tomorrow.

“With this motion Mr Speaker, we are not just providing financial relief for Turks and Caicos Islander families; but we are also restoring dignity, rekindling their hope, and in so doing, reaffirming our commitment to the well-being of our people and ensuring that they can live their best lives.”

TC Invest/TOLCO history

Putting the matter into perspective, the Deputy Premier reminded the House of Assembly that in 1997, some 26 years ago, the now-defunct TC Invest, a statutory body, started offering loans for mortgages and student loans.

However, in October 2012, TC Invest was dissolved, and the loan

portfolio, with a value of $17,511,794.65 was absolved by the government.

Saunders further explained that the loan portfolio was then split into two groups – a performing loan portfolio, which consisted of loans that the borrowers were making regular payments on; and a non-performing loan portfolio, which consisted of loans that the borrowers were making irregular payments on.

He said: “The non-performing loan portfolio was then sold to TOLCO for $0.00, in exchange for a 60/40% split (60% for TOLCO and 40% for the TCIG) on all monies collected.

“TCIG kept the performing loans, in May 2017, the agreement between TOLCO and TCIG was dissolved, and the government of the day repurchased the nonperforming loan portfolio from TOLCO for $1.36m.”

Subsequently, in March 2020 the PNP Government wrote off: the unpaid interest on the combined portfolios, which totalled $8.15m; as well as $193,200 in unsecured loans and a moratorium on interest was then put in place for the period

of April 2020 to September 2020.

Further in March 2023, the government wrote off unpaid interest in the amount of $1.87 million covering the period 28th of February 2020 to the 31st of January 2023.

He said: “At that time, Mr Speaker, our government reduced the interest rate to 6.79%, which is the average rate that the local banks use.

“This reduction was estimated to save borrowers approximately $330,000 between the period February 2023 – March 2024, unfortunately, despite these

actions, Mr Speaker, it was evident that more needed to be done.”

In spite of these efforts, Saunders posited that “more” action was necessary to alleviate the burden on borrowers once and for all.

Reciting Proverbs 27, Saunders emphasised that it is the Government’s duty to “look out for those under our care.”

He said: “In Proverbs 27:2324, we are told be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.”

Two men shot in police operation in Five Cays – Investigation and review underway

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TWO men who were suspected of stealing a truck are nursing gunshot wounds following a police operation in Five Cays this week.

Commissioner of Police Mr Trevor Botting in a brief statement on Thursday, September 21, explained what occurred during the operation.

He said: “At 00:35 hours on Thursday 21 September 2023, a call was received into the Police Control Room reporting the theft of a flatbed truck from Five Cays.

“This vehicle was tracked by the CCTV Operators within the Police Control Room and subsequently intercepted by the Armed Police Officers in the Five Cays.”

He further explained that during an attempt to stop the vehicle and apprehend the persons suspected

Commissioner of Police Trevor

Botting

of stealing the vehicle “Police Officers discharged their firearms and two men within the truck received gunshot wounds”.

Commissioner Botting said both men received medical treatment for their injuries with one being released into police custody and the other remaining under medical care.

“Two police officers received minor injuries which are not firearms related and two police vehicles were damaged during the incident when it is believed the truck was driven into the vehicles.”

Botting added 'The theft of the truck is under investigation and the discharge of the firearms by police officers is under review with consideration to another police force from the region leading an independent review of the circumstances of the discharge which is normal practice in such circumstances.”

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

Govt to unveil 12 ‘transformational priority projects’ at Open Day event

Residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands will learn first-hand about the details of 12 major transformational projects being undertaken by the government at an Open Day event to be hosted later this month.

The priority projects some of which are currently ongoing are intended to accelerate inclusive growth in the territory and will be unveiled to the public on the 28th of September at 1 pm at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex.

The 12 priority projects identified by the Government are: PP1: South Dock Redevelopment; PP2: Domestic Fibre Optic Link; PP3: Solid Waste Management; PP4: Comprehensive Housing Solutions Delivery; PP5: Strengthening the Agriculture Sector; PP6: National ID; PP7: Scanning of Land Registry Documents; PP8: Management and Containment of Informal Settlements; PP9: Digital Borders; PP10: Digital Transformation of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); PP11: National Insurance Shared Services; PP12: Judiciary Integrated Infrastructure Programme.

Visitors will be able to view various informative displays, engage with the priority project leaders, implementers, and decision-makers, and participate in other interactive activities, according to a statement from the government,

The priority projects, selected by cabinet, are being implemented within an identified period and are rigorously tracked to deliver meaningful results to the country and its people.

The projects are being managed by the National Delivery Unit (NDU) established in 2022, under the Office of Premier and Public Policy.

The government said the approach towards planning the priority projects is aimed at fostering significant socioeconomic growth, “is actionoriented and performance-focused with well-developed and specific deliverables for each priority project.”

“Through this, the government is committed to steady reforms and delivery efforts as it focuses on shaping the future of Turks and Caicos into a more sustainable economy and a thriving and innovative society.”

NATIONAL DELIVERY UNIT

The NDU was set up to assist the government in implementing its priorities to deliver results swiftly and within the budget.

The team of consultants, led by Justin Ram (Dr) of JRAS, (Justin Ram Advisory Services) has played a pivotal role in advising the government in the planning, implementation, and execution of these projects with a strong emphasis on capacity building of the local teams.

These projects, across five sectors, were identified as priority by the cabinet and are meant to address that which will expand the economy, stimulate growth, and

improve social conditions.

With the aim of breaking down barriers and obstacles that hinder the progress affecting the people, the NDU is working

with the support of ministries, departments, and agencies to strengthen the ability and capabilities to implement the key projects.

BY DELANA ISLES

Representative for the Twin Islands and Immigration Minister, Hon Arlington Musgrove calls out ‘silly season’ this week in statements before the House of Assembly.

“While we are fighting amongst each other - we complain night and day about the other nationalities doing this and that - but if we want to be honest, they are doing us nothing and they have no need to because we are very successfully doing it to ourselves.

“We are a blessed nation; despite the many areas we can improve in

– personally and collectively - we are blessed and if you doubt that just look at our neighbours in the South and then you will see that we are indeed blessed.

“Under this government our people are hired and promoted yet we criticize that we are not filling vacancies in government, but we refuse to acknowledge that promotions within the civil service recognize talent, encourage performance and that these promotions in fact create vacancies.

“We seek to improve the infrastructure of the roads, the schools, the airports, and the docks,

yet we criticize the persons who successfully bid for these jobs, we criticize the staged approach to meet the financial commitments of the work and we do our utmost best to destroy the very character of the contractors and the civil servants alike.

He said last week, the House laid a bill to give relief to 176 mortgage holders of the former TCI Invest, an occasion that should have been “a great moment regardless of political affiliation, but no”.

“The comments ranged from

Hon Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Immigration

Minister Musgrove says Islanders are too critical of each other – insists “we are a blessed nation”

JUDICIAL REVIEW OF TOURIST BOARD DISSOLUTION

The PDM is awaiting word from the court concerning an application for a judicial review related to the decision to dissolve the tourist board and introduce a $10 destination fee.

“We have proceeded with filing the application for a judicial review… the judicial review is filed against the Minister of Tourism, the Premier and the Speaker of the House”, Hon Alvin Garland, PDM's Appointed Member in the House of Assembly said.

What are your thoughts?

Frivolous

This is frivolous at its best. Let's see the employment ordinance amended to reduce the work week to 37.5 hours with a paid lunch for everyone. To ensure that a person’s current take-home pay would not be reduced, the rate of pay would automatically be increased. People need at least two days off from work each week to spend quality time with family, church and for mental health.

Let’s lobby for things that add value to the quality of people's lives, especially for the most vulnerable ones in our society.

No more taxes

I totally agree that there should be a review. The PNP government is famous for writing off debts that should rightfully be paid as the recipients have enjoyed the funds borrowed. This government turns around and tax we the people to offset that cost. No additional taxes or fees should be introduced. They need to find ways to reduce import duties and the overall cost of living.

A shadow of themselves

A government taking office with an overwhelming super-majority, 14 seats to one, carried a huge mandate to do good for the people of the TCI.

This mandate is no longer and rumblings nationwide indicate that the people are literally tired of this PNP government and its wasted mandate.

Yet with this "Lost Mandate" they pillage and destroy a national asset, the tourist board. The read-guard action taken by the government in misdirecting its mandate

and ignoring the wish of the people in destroying the tourist board, getting rid of highly educated and experienced Turks & Caicos Islanders cannot be seen as “good or proper” in any sense.

It did not sit well with the people and public at large. Reactions are all negative. Someone must do something. It is good that the official opposition is stepping up to seek court review of the situation and it will be interesting to see the outcome of the case.

TCI courts seem reluctant to rule against the government. The opposition is doing the right thing and should stay in the fight no matter the outcome. The suit should be for sheer inanity and utterly ridiculous decisions: removing the marketing of tourism from the tourist board, firing your own people, replacing them with foreign “experts” who know little about the jurisdiction, and seeking a $10 fee to pay for it all. It cannot make sense at any level, none of this stupidity could be found in the PNP’s manifesto, the body language of the minister responsible shows she’s clearly unaware of what is going on and it cannot be defended.

This is a suit which is in the public’s interest and people of all stripes: PNP, PDM, foreign, expat, or none at all, should rally and support this suit. It makes sense, that the leader of the opposition, Edwin Astwood and his team should be commended for moving the suit because it may help in bringing common sense back to the TCI and the way the Country is to be run.

The right thing

It does not matter whether the suit is filed by the official opposition, the PDM or whether they will win or not. By any measure, the suit makes sense because it seeks a higher purpose, the will and legacy of the people! Whose country is this and what really

matters? It is ‘representation”. The government is abusing the people of the TCI by ignoring their will and their wishes. The decision to jettison the age-old tourist board, get rid of experienced staff and introduce a $10 fee to fly into the TCI is utter nonsense, madness and should be looked into.

It’s like the government is running a herd of cows through the TCI and its institutions. What if they had campaigned on this decision, come clean to the people, that on election, “We will get rid of the tourist board and fire our highly experienced tourist board staff—most of whom have masters degrees”.

It continues to beg the question, where are the backbench MPs? Why aren’t they demanding answers and on the street campaigning against this utterly bad decision? Why aren’t they asking to join the judicial review application being filed by the opposition as this is a National issue and not a partisan one? It is time they earn their salaries, per diems, daily, constituency and travel allowances.

You earn those allowances by sticking up and standing up for the people and what is right by them. Is your campaign going to be that “we stood by, watched educated and experienced TCI people get fired, helped and voted to destroy the tourist board, so please elect us again?”

This tourist board issue shows why there is a deep-sinking feeling in the TCI that its people “do not have a country”. Imagine justifying, by your silence MPs, that you condone the firing of TCIslanders with over 20 years’ experience and holding MBAs, masters degrees. This is sheer madness.

The lawsuit is justified and should proceed. It will show that the one opposition seat in parliament is standing up for the people while the 14 government MPs remain seated on their hands while the people suffer in their own land.

Will unearth answers

This lawsuit will be a test of whether the House of Assembly or the TCI Constitution is supreme. Unlike the UK’s House of Commons which is supposed to be “supreme”, the TCI’s House of Assembly is not as it should be subject to the Constitution and the rules of the house.

Kudos to the official leader of the opposition, PDM Leader, the Hon Edwin Astwood, for even having the “testicular fortitude” for even bringing this lawsuit. There is a feeling that in the TCI, nobody comes up against “Massa”, which is Grace Bay.

All of these issues laid out by the opposition seem to be well crafted and supported by “Money from Ulterior sources”, such as Grace Bay and certainly not the will of the people. The suit questions whether the speaker should have allowed the Premier’s motion and allowing the Bill to destroy the tourist board, to go through all three readings in one session of the House.

Why the rush? Why not allow the Bill to be laid on the floor of the house as with any

other bill, give sufficient time for debate, and allow the people of the TCI to see it and debate it? On a Bill of such high public importance, it should not have been passed in just one day. It is the opposition's position that the decision by the speaker to grant the Premier’s motion was “procedurally” unfair. Unfair to whom, the House of Assembly? Yes and the TCI people. What is the reason for the “kind of hush” to get rid of the tourist board? This lawsuit is a good idea.

Let the lawsuit proceed

The lawsuit represents a number of things in the TCI but really to the point of the tensions between the Grace Bay Community and the people of the TCI for control of their destiny. It is easy to see that TCIslanders are not wanted in any way shape or form in TCI’s tourism.

They are routinely and systematically blocked out of all sectors and sub-sectors. TCI music, culture and art forms are allegedly not allowed in Grace Bay. TCI native builders, subcontractors, plumbing contractors, MEP Personnel and such are out of the multi-million dollar jobs and subcontracts. It makes all the “sense, rhyme and reason” for the handmaidens of the Grace Bay Boys, the PNP Government to make such a move to get the rest of the TCI out of the tourism business.

It is a nationally held feeling between the opposition and the public that “Since its inception, the tourist board has played a pivotal role in showcasing the natural beauty, rich culture and unique attractions of the TCI. The board was officially established in 1990 under the Tourism Ordinance recognising the potential benefits and the need for sustainable development of the Islands’ tourism resources.” As such it is a national treasure and should be seen as such.

Why get rid of it and why the haste? In one day 14 MPs! It is like someone helping you win the lottery and after you win, you get rid of them. It is accepted that "by any account, the tourist board has been a success in promoting the TCI, as a leader in the industry and TCI frequently being referred to as the envy of the Caribbean”. Yet getting rid of all of that history, achievement and success for a $10 management fee? Getting rid of your people in the tourist board, making the destination more expensive and rushed through in the space of a day? Yes, let that lawsuit proceed and we all see what they are up to. It makes sense.

Astwood says TCI’s new generation not afraid of independence –

challenges the PNP government to “stand up” to British rule

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood has challenged the Progressive National Party (PNP) government to “stand up” to the British government’s rulership of the TCI.

The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory, this means the UK retains ultimate responsibility for its good governance and has the power to intervene in its domestic affairs, as with the other nine overseas territories.

However, Astwood told the House of Assembly during his rebuttal to the throne speech on Thursday, September 14, 2023, that the new generation of Turks and Caicos Islanders are not afraid of “Self-determination and Selfgovernment.”

He said: “Why …don’t you stand up and tell the British that their direct rule and control of our

country and people is not going to hold.

“Mr Speaker, you can’t feel it? Strangers in the gallery you can't feel it? That the youth don’t want to hear a damn thing you are saying—if you are not talking about what they want to hear.

“You can feel it when you are talking to them, parents you can feel it when you are talking to your children that this is a new generation and they don’t want to hear your compromising talk.

“They are not afraid like many of you are about self-determination and self-government”, he stressed.

He told the government that the new generation of Turks and Caicos Islanders will not accept a “cowardly, self-serving, passive, submissive leader”, to steer the Turks and Caicos Islands into the future.

“Those days of leading our people like that are finished…why don’t you stand up?

Minister Musgrove says Islanders are too critical ...

CONTINUED FROM  5

why isn’t the government giving persons back their own money that they have paid on their own mortgage to the spewing of absolute hate and the calling for the lesser beneficiaries to be published.

“We are so distracted by what our brothers and sisters are passively benefitting from that we don’t even realise that we are all benefiting together as a people.”

Musgrove continued: “Looking at that, you just can’t make this stuff up.”

He believes there is a cancer that has spread throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands: “It is neither of the body nor of the mind but is of our hearts in some of our people and it is my prayer that we can pull ourselves from the edge of this very slippery

slope that we are headed down.”

The minister is encouraging Islanders to take a hard look at themselves and recognise that “we are doing ourselves and our country a disservice”.

He said a way needs to be found to refocus and regroup as a people.

“I dare say, it starts with us in this honourable house, it starts with us in the government, we must continue to find ways to demonstrate fairness, support and equity of all our people regardless of who they are, decomplicate process for the public engagement with our officers and the ability to access products and services.

“We must continue to bring policies and legislative changes that will empower our people and that which will support and encourage economic participation and growth.”

“You have to stop this kind of weak speaking when judgment has hit the TCI, you got to prepare our people for what is coming to us.”

He said the people’s desire to manage their own affairs has been shunned by the incumbent administration.

“This is a tired government, one that no longer listens to the people of our islands, and one that is greatly out of touch”, he stressed.

The UK government has a long and complex relationship with

its overseas territories spanning constitutional, security, and financial aspects.

Similarly to the TCI, the territories operate with differing levels of self-governance, balancing local decision-making with UK responsibilities.

The government collaborates closely with the territories on security and defence.

The UK government engages in financial cooperation, providing support to the territories for their economic development and financial stability.

Residents of Grand Turk recently had the opportunity to learn of future development plans for the Grand Turk Cruise Centre (GTCC) and how they could capitalise on emerging opportunities.

This comes as the Premier, Hon Charles Washington Misick, along with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), Carnival Corporation & GTCC, and partners hosted

an engaging town hall meeting with citizens and stakeholders on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at Yellowman and Sons Auditorium,

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood

Carnival Corporation representatives, Premier and Cabinet Ministers and Grand Turk Cruise Centre (GTCC) representatives at the town hall meeting – (TCIG photos)

A number of Grand Turk residents attended the meeting GT residents learn

Health Regulation Amendment Bill 2023 passed – amid concerns from opposition

BY DELANA ISLES

The Health Regulation Amendment Bill 2023 was passed this week in the House of Assembly, but questions remain as to why these laws are only targeting the smaller operations and medical staff.

Posing those questions, was the Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, during a sitting of the House on Wednesday, September 20.

Astwood said: “These regulations are much needed, and we know the reasons why they are needed… but we should have gone farther.”

“I do think that by now we need tougher regulations, when we look at dealing with Interhealth Canada, the big institutions, but I see a lot of these regulations looking at the local doctors, the local spas… I see revoking of licenses and all that… it all looks like it is targeted towards Turks and Caicos Islanders, local health facilities.

“Are you really going to revoke a license of Interhealth Canada if you find them wanting, Mr

Minister? Is that going to happen? What are we doing to deal with all the issues we hear, the complaints dealing with NHIP, treatment abroad?”

Astwood feels strongly that more leadership is needed within the Health Regulations Authority. He recounted “nightmarish” experiences that have been brought to his attention such as “misdiagnoses”, questioning what in the regulations will deal with issues of that nature.

“What in the regulations deals with this, while these [provisions] are good, it has to go farther,” the opposition leader said.

“We have had complaints of the MRI equipment, scans not being calibrated, this is complaints we have been hearing in the public.

“Where do these regulations go in dealing with the big giants, not the little people, how do we deal with the giants?” Astwood questioned.

OBJECTIVES

While Astwood feels more can, should and must be done within

the health regulatory framework, Minister of Health, Hon. Shaun Malcolm who moved the bill, said the amended laws will strengthen the health sector.

He noted that the objectives of the amendments to the Ordinance are to build appropriate policies and healthcare protocols within the sector mainly to enhance good practice and a better clinical culture in TCI.

Further explaining: “The strategic objective of the bill

Dengue outbreak in the Americas being “closely monitored” – Health Ministry

The Ministry of Health said it is monitoring the dengue situation in the Americas closely.

More than 3.4 million cases of dengue have been reported for 2023, and outbreaks are occurring in a number of countries including the Caribbean.

Although very few cases of dengue have been identified in the TCI this year, it is essential that the general public remains vigilant for this disease as well as play their role in destroying potential mosquito breeding sites within homes, yards and communities, the Ministry said in a recent statement.

Dengue is a viral illness that spreads to people through the bite of an infected Aedes species (Ae. aegypti or Ae. albopictus) mosquito. These mosquitoes also spread zika, chikungunya, and other viruses.

The aedes aegypti mosquito is present in the Turks and Caicos Islands and is capable of spreading dengue, chikungunya and zika.

According to the Ministry about one in four people infected with dengue will get sick.

For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.

Severe dengue can be lifethreatening within a few hours and often requires care at a hospital.

SYMPTOMS

Mild symptoms of dengue can be confused with other illnesses that cause fever, aches and pains, or a rash.

The most common symptom of dengue is fever with nausea, vomiting, rash, aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain),

Symptoms of dengue typically last 2–7 days and most people will recover after about a week.

“There is no specific treatment for dengue, if you suspect that you or your loved one has dengue, please see your healthcare provider so that you can be tested and receive the necessary advice”, the Ministry explained.

The Ministry said it continues to offer testing for dengue at no cost through the National Public Health Laboratory in partnership with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) as well as conducting vector control activities throughout the islands.

To report any areas of standing water or mosquito breeding sites, residents were urged to contact the Environmental Health Department for guidance assistance on (649) 338 2143/2142.

private institutions in TCI as an independent health regulator.”

The Health Regulations Authority has five main objectives that are aimed at protecting the public and promoting quality patient safety.

They are: Regulating healthcare services, facilities and equipment, medicine and drugs; setting appropriate standards, regulations, guidelines and policies aligned with international best practice; ensuring compliance with those standards; ensuring fitness for purpose and managing complaints of a regulatory nature.

is to support the Government’s alignment with the United Nations preparations that are focused on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, particularly SDG 3.

“That is, the need to ensure healthy lives and to promote wellbeing for all residents at all social and economic levels, and this includes managing the regulation of the entire healthcare system.

“This includes the provision of healthcare by government and

Malcolm said the Bill allows improvements to the Ordinance, providing the legal framework for the government to take immediate action to address the existing challenges within the health sector.

He stated: “It ensures that the legal framework is in place to help keep track of how well the healthcare system is compliant with their contractual obligations and other legal requirements protecting public interests.

“It nails down the standards for technical operations, safety and quality that are required apart from the contract and the penalties for non-compliance.”

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

“We will listen to our people” –

Astwood promises not to lead a tone-deaf government

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood says if the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is elected to government at the next general election, the voices, concerns, and democratic rights of TCIslanders will not be overlooked.

“We will listen to our people and everything we do will be predicated on one of our core principles on this side of the House”, Astwood said during his rebuttal to the government’s throne speech delivered in the House of Assembly on September 14, 2023.

He said, unlike the incumbent government which “has forgotten or maybe ignored the first and most important principle of government – that is to serve the people”, a PDM government under his leadership will address issues plaguing the growth and development of the TCI such as immigration and crime.

Astwood told the House of Assembly that his government would not only create a robust economy to empower the populace but also ensure their interests are at the core of social policies and programmes and work diligently towards a collective vision for prosperity.

“It is that principle that guides the current opposition, and future government, and there are better ways of running our country.

“People matter, what they care about matters, how they feel about things matters, what inspires and disappoints them matters, what they believe matters, and their vision for their own community matters.”

Astwood, who recently announced his intention to contest the 2025 general election as leader of the party, should the voters approve his candidacy stressed that a PDM government will bring

people together and restore true democracy.

“We will move forward as one People, we need to draw on the ideas of our people, we want their input, and we need to give them the opportunity to share their views with those who are elected to serve them”, he said.

Recognising that challenges are inevitable, Astwood underscored that a PDM Government will rise to the occasion and confront issues head-on, especially those that have stymied the growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“A PDM government that I lead would rise to the moment where this government has badly failed.

“A PDM government that I lead would tackle the immigration crises head-on, and not hide behind the curtains when addressing

crime.”

The Leader of the Opposition made it pellucid that his administration will tackle health care and the funding of health services, with an aim of ensuring that the necessary staff and facilities are in place for disease prevention, treatment, and cure.

He stressed that his party’s government will ensure that people who are serious about furthering their education, obtaining a new skill, or enhancing an old one, will get a scholarship to pursue that dream, in any subject area that can benefit the country.

IMPROVING LIVES

The Opposition Leader told the House of Assembly that a PDM government will work diligently to improve the lives of the average man through the creation of jobs and entrepreneurship, community enhancement, and improvement of a range of public services.

He continued: “A PDM government that I lead will [provide] the best possible internet connectivity for all our Islands of the Turks and Caicos -providing high-speed internet connection for work, education, sharing content, and entertainment.

“A PDM government that I lead would ensure that civil servants' salaries are on the same level of remuneration as the government statuary bodies, providing a level playing field, and making a government job the most soughtafter job in the country.

“A PDM government that I lead would improve public services so they deliver for people paying for them.

“A PDM government that I lead would have a strategy, with a road map, to grow the additional industries of the future- in particular, the fishing industry –with the government providing the initial investment that brings confidence and security.”

He further pointed out that under his administration, there will be a plan to revive historic town districts with new businesses, on all islands to provide sufficient finance for a new generation of locally owned start-ups.

“We need to get back that spirit of unity, and under our government, any government that I would leadyou will.

“Not only is that the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do. That’s how we develop a better economy for all, that’s how we develop creative solutions for all our islands and communities.

“We talk about harnessing our Islands’ natural beauty to further enhance our economy, but Mr Speaker, our greatest resource is our people.

“Together we can accomplish anything and together we can face all challenges.

“I believe we all could accomplish more under the right plan and under the right leadership for the time,” he emphasised.

GT residents learn of developments and business opportunities at town ...

Grand Turk.

The crux of the town hall event was to address the impact of the Grand Turk Cruise Centre on the capital island.

At the meeting, panellists provided thorough insights on future GTCC developments, including a partnership between the TCIG and the Carnival Corporation to implement a sustainable recycling programme, according to a

statement from the Government.

The panellists also advocated for partnership with citizens to see further GTCC and infrastructural improvement.

They highlighted business opportunities to strengthen partnerships between locals and Carnival to see an increase in revenue and guest satisfaction for the island of Grand Turk.

Citizens who attended interacted with the panellists during a question and answer segment, some expressed

concerns, while others proposed ideas and offered valuable feedback on the issues raised.

The TCI government said it “values its long-standing relationship with GTCC and Carnival and seeks to improve the unique economic landscape of Cockburn Town, the capital, and upgrade the existing infrastructure on the island to ensure a fulfilling visitor experience and stimulate growth in income and revenues for the residents and the government as well.”

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood said “People matter, what they care about matters, how they feel about things matters”.

If you are called to be a pastor, stay away from partisan politics

Come together, do not be a part of this divisive political system

On September 20, 2020, I wrote an article entitled “Should Christians and Pastors be involved in politics.” I concluded that it is okay for Christians to enter politics, but pastors should not get involved.

In a recent conversation with someone, the person told me to stay in my lane and do not touch this subject because people such as Joseph and David were involved in politics. Another friend of mine reminded me these individuals were appointed.

Furthermore, the political system was different in that era. However, the political system that we are using is very partisan and is designed to divide us. No pastor should be involved in anything that divides people. More than likely there is a split in the congregation on how members vote and if a pastor decides to join a political

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

party, it creates further division. Also, these political parties’ manifesto does not always line up with the word of God.

A pastor is called by God for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry and for the edifying of the body of Christ.

I don’t think God called a pastor to also be a politician. The politician will not edify the body of Christ. The political system that we

have established in this world was not the plan of God even though he allowed it to happen. Remember Israel asked Samuel to appoint a King to lead them like what the other nations have. They got their wish, but God told Samuel to tell them what the King will claim as his rights, and that they would cry out for relief, but the Lord would not answer them on that day. How can a pastor carry out dual

roles as a pastor and a politician? The politician pledges allegiance to the King of England whereas a pastor pledges allegiance to God. A pastor may think if he or she enters politics, it is an opportunity to fix the issues. That is not so, it is an opportunity for disaster and the system does not work the way it appears to be from the outside. If a pastor is called to be a pastor, that pastor should take their calling very seriously. Remember the word of God said the harvest is plentiful but the labourers are few. Going into politics will reduce the labourers even further.

Pastors, preach the word, win souls in the kingdom of God, put God first and live a life pleasing God. If you can do this, you will help solve one of the major causes of some of the issues in the world, which is spiritual.

Pastors, by entering politics, are you implying that the political power is greater than the power of God? There is no power greater than the power of God. The answers to our issues are not through partisan politics. The pastors need to come together and try to bring the people together, not separate themselves or others over politics.

Everyone has a right to decide whether they want to run for political office. However, I personally will not vote for any pastor who aligns him or herself with a political party. If a pastor decides to go into politics, I believe that pastor should resign from the ministry. If we want success in our country, then we need to unite and love one another. When we align ourselves with a party, it is a recipe for division and hatred, and we will not accomplish much.

Impact of modern technology on education:

Why the TCI should strike a balance between digital innovation and in-person learning

The pace of technological innovation is moving at Mach speeds and this acceleration has – overtime – created fundamental changes in our lives; in the way we learn and in the interim, have facilitated and enhanced connectivity between teachers and students.

But despite these advances, Sweden, a Nordic country, at the northern most part of Europe is going back to basic schooling works on paper. This school term teachers have placed new emphasis on printed books, quiet reading time and writing practice, and committing less time employing tablets, autonomous online research, and keyboard skills.

The question is, why? Citing the World Economic Forum, Sweden boasts one of the world’s effective education systems. While its students’ reading ability is above the European average, an international assessment of fourthgrade reading levels reported an underlining decline among

BY D MARKIE SPRING

children between 2016 and 2021.

This bolsters scientific evidence according to Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, which accentuates that digital tools impair; rather than, enhance students’ learning.

Additionally, experts say, this learning deficit is also owing to an overuse of screens during online classes throughout the coronavirus pandemic or mirroring the thriving immigrant students’ community, whose first language is not Swedish.

However, the chief rationale for Sweden returning to traditional learning methodologies is a response to politicians’ and experts’

pessimistic views concerning the nation’s hyper-digitalized approach to education.

By now, you might be asking, why I am telling you this! The TCI endevours to digitise its education system and while this is convenient during a pandemic; educators are encouraged to strike a balance.

Therefore, lawmakers must conduct an assessment of the technology implemented in TCI schools, like policymakers did in Sweden, to ascertain the impacts on learning – taking into consideration cultural determinants. And if the outcome shows a

deficit in students’ competencies, policymakers should focus on going back to the basics of acquiring knowledge through printed textbooks and teacher expertise; rather than, relying primarily on digital information, which is often not redacted for veracity.

More so, since the institution of tablets, computers, and smartphones in schools empirical evidence across nations shows a decline in the development of language, writing and reading skills, which are vital for realworld communication.

Considering this, the UN education and culture agencies are repelling the rapid adoption of digital learning tools in schools.

In August this year, UNESCO urgently called for the applicable use of technology in education –goading lawmakers to accelerate internet connections in schools, while simultaneously warning that technology in learning should be implemented so that it never

replaces in-person, teacher-lead instructions.

Right now, deploying online instruction in education is vehemently debated across Europe. Poland recently dispersed laptops to every student from grade four and above, which is designed to make the country more technologically competitive, while Germany is careful to adapt.

In contrast and despite the millions of laptops distributed to students in the US during the pandemic, educators still managed to devise a balance between digital sources and textbooks.

Meanwhile, TCI policy-makers must design an education system, that focuses on creativity and innovation; produces independent thinkers and methodical problemsolvers.

However, this is only possible through investing in education standards and maintaining a highquality teaching staff – striking a balance between technology and in-person instructions.

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

D

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

Who will hear us when we cry for help?

A lament from Psalm 10

The story of Erin Brockovich is one of determination, resilience, and courage in the face of astounding adversity. Despite lacking a formal legal background, Erin (a single mother and paralegal at the time) uncovered a case of water contamination in Hinkley, California. Her discovery eventually led to a ground-breaking lawsuit against the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE) for toxic chemical pollution that harmed the health of the Hinkley residents. Her tireless efforts ultimately resulted in a historic settlement, securing justice and compensation for the affected community while exposing corporate wrongdoing and environmental negligence. Stories like these capture our imagination because they are powerful reminders that justice, like a young shoot, can be found in the hardest of places. But stories like these also remind us, even

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

mock us sometimes, that justice in the face of wickedness is so infrequent. But it does not have to be.

Psalm 10 serves as a timeless reminder of the righteous struggle against injustice and the enduring hope for Godly intervention. Its relevance in today's world is unmistakable. In a society where injustice persists and appears ubiquitous, where the vulnerable are often exploited, and where the cries of the helpless can be

drowned out by the arrogance of the wicked, this psalm calls us to action.

It reminds us that we too can be agents of justice and compassion. Just as the psalmist cried out for God's intervention, we can raise our voices against injustice, advocate for the vulnerable, and work towards a more just and compassionate society, even when we know that only in the coming age would we truly experience peace and harmony. The psalm underscores the importance of not

remaining passive in the face of wickedness but actively seeking to make a positive difference.

THE CRY OF THE HELPLESS:

The psalm begins with a poignant cry, echoing the righteous’ call for God’s intervention. "O LORD, why do you stand so far away?"

David's words capture the essence of our desperation when faced with overwhelming adversity. The heartfelt question, "Why do you hide when I am in trouble?"

is a plea for God's presence and deliverance.

EXPOSING THE WICKEDNESS OF THE ARROGANT:

In verses 2 to 11, the psalmist vividly portrays the wickedness of those who arrogantly exploit the poor and vulnerable. They are described as hunters of the defenceless, laying traps and snares for their innocent victims. Their mouths are "full of cursing, lies, and threats," and they live with the false belief that they are beyond accountability, saying, "Nothing bad will ever happen to us!"

DIVINE JUSTICE AND THE CRY FOR DELIVERANCE:

Amid the cries of the oppressed, the psalmist turns to God for

How to get over your ex

Failed relationships are hard, especially when you were blindsighted by the rupture.

You want to move on. You want to forget them as soon as you can (if only it could happen the next morning when you woke up), but it doesn't. It takes time and every time you see a mutual friend, you end up reliving the moments again. Horrible_ I know, this is why I brought you 8 ways to forget the sucker. They weren't all that anyway.

ACCEPT WHAT HAPPENED BUT DO NOT DWELL ON IT

It is normal to be upset, mad, and hurt after break-ups. And you'd probably be mad for a long time. You have to accept that the relationship is over and don't even try to pick up the pieces because you'd only hurt yourself. Once you've accepted it, don't dwell on it. Don't overthink and overanalyze things. Don't dwell on the "what-ifs" or "what might have beens" in the relationship.

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

It's

fruitless.

LET IT GO

The rule of every relationship is never ever be clingy. You have to learn to let go. I know it's not easy. Letting go is actually the most crucial and the most difficult phase of every relationship. There are just too many memories, and forgetting these memories feels like an impossibility.

GO OUT AND BE ACTIVE

I understand that you want to be alone, and I respect that. Everyone deserves some alone time with themselves, and I'm

not going to deny you that opportunity. When you are alone, you can think things through but don't overdo it. So go out, do things you didn’t get the time to do. Go play tennis!

DON'T LOOK BACK OR IMAGE WHAT IF

You need to look within yourself and be honest. If you think you can still trust the person wholeheartedly, then go for it. But you have to be careful. Seriously—if he cheated on you once, he'll cheat on you again, that's for sure! No ifs, buts, or maybes.

MAKE NEW MEMORIES

To get your ex out of your system, you have to create new memories. If you visited some places together in the past, you need to go to a new spot that you've never been to before. Better yet, go somewhere you went together, but this time do it with your loved ones and friends. Eat foods you've never tasted before. Take that vacation to Cuba alone_ you’ll love it. Love yourself!

IMPROVE YOURSELF

You're single. This is the best time for you to focus on yourself. Now, your money and time are all yours to take. Don't feel guilty about spending it.Treat yourself. Go to a spa or buy anything to get you pampered, like a mani/pedi set. Buy a new set of clothes, shoes, and makeup. Give yourself a makeover as the strong, independent woman you are. Enroll in a culinary course and learn something new.

Indulge in worthwhile activities like yoga, swimming, biking, and the arts.

AVOID CONTACTING THEM

Your ex might still want to contact you even after the breakup. If this happens, it will certainly make it harder for you to forget him. Be respectful but mindful of your needs. You can change your number (or block his) and delete his number from your contact list. If you memorized his number, you will really have to discipline yourself and do your best not to contact him.

GET UNDER THEM

It's true, the best way to get over someone is to get under another. This body won't look like this forever. Use it while everything holds together. Thank me later.

How did you get over your last unfortunate-event?

Spill all the beans on louisedens@gmail.com

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.

Rachel

Wolchin once

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

Health symposium 2023 held under the theme: “my health, my priority”

Leading healthcare professionals, panellists, and enthusiasts, gathered on Thursday last, (September 14th) for a Health Symposium at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa.

The event, organised by the Health Promotions and Advocacy Unit (HPAU) within the Ministry of Health and Human Services, brought together experts from diverse fields to discuss and share insights on the latest advancements and challenges in healthcare.

Themed "My Health, My Priority," the symposium aimed to provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration among healthcare stakeholders, residents, and individuals facing various health challenges. The event featured engaging presenters, panel discussions and exhibitions covering a wide range of topics crucial to the evolving healthcare

landscape.

Keynote Speaker Mr Drexwell Seymour, Managing Director of HLB, shared his personal health journey and survival story with the audience noting the importance of regular medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed medications, and the realisation that your health is indeed your priority.

At the forum, attendees had the opportunity to engage in relevant healthcare tests, discuss health challenges with professionals, and be guided on the importance of good personal healthcare.

During the panel discussions, expert panellists explored pertinent issues including healthcare access, mental and oral health, NonCommunicable Diseases and agriculture which emphasised sustainability, in terms of helping us lower costs and eating healthier

with the introduction of backyard or kitchen gardens.

The event fostered meaningful connections among attendees, allowing them to build relationships and partnerships aimed at advancing healthcare.

Aldora Robinson, Director of the HPAU and host of the Health Symposium expressed enthusiasm about the event's success. "This year's symposium surpassed our expectations in terms of both attendance and the depth of discussions. It's clear that the healthcare community is eager to assist us in our education and promotion efforts, embrace new technologies, and collaborate on innovative solutions for the future."

The event underscored the importance of continued collaboration and innovation in addressing the evolving healthcare landscape.

US tourist pleads guilty to possession of ammunition

A 26-year-old male has been sentenced to eight months imprisonment after having pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition.

Michael Allan Grim Jr of Paoli Pike Floyds, Indiana was sentenced on Monday, September 18, 2023.

According to a Police statement, Mr Grim was arrested on August 01st, 2023, and subsequently charged, after one black magazine, containing 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition was found in his luggage, whilst at

the Providenciales International Airport.

During the investigation, Mr Grim was interviewed by detectives of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and admitted the ammunition belonged to him.

Head of Crime, Safeguarding, and Public Protection Superintendent Dean Holden in a brief statement said: “The laws of the Turks and Caicos Islands regarding the possession of

The triumph of justice in an unjust ...

CONTINUED FROM  11

justice and deliverance. This plea for divine intervention underscores the yearning for a saviour who is greater than ourselves to set things right. The psalmist implores, "Arise, O LORD! Punish the wicked, O God! Do not ignore the helpless!"

reminding us that even in the darkest moments, justice will prevail.

firearms and ammunition is very clear.

He stressed that: “The laws are clearly defined as to the requirements needed in obtaining permission for possession of firearms and ammunition when travelling to the TCI. The laws apply to everyone and will be enforced.”

Officers of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force investigated the matter.

A HOPEFUL RESOLUTION:

The psalmist's lament is not without hope. In the final verses, there is a profound shift as the psalmist acknowledges God's role as the protector of the helpless. "You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed, so mere people can no longer terrify them."

This shift reflects a message of hope in the face of adversity,

Let us heed the call of Psalm 10 to seek justice, show compassion, and work towards a world where the godless actions of wickedness vanish, and the hopes of the helpless are realized. But some of us can be instruments of justice. Some of us can answer the cry of the oppressed with compassion and action. I pray you do because to tune those cries out is a greater injustice than what caused them.

Take heed “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

Keynote Speaker at the 2023 Health Symposium, Mr Drexwell Seymour – Managing Director of HLB TCI Ltd.

Michael Allan Grim Jr of Paoli Pike Floyds, Indiana

Oswald Skippings returns to his roots

says change in leadership led him back

BY DELANA ISLES

Former Chief Minister Hon Oswald Skippings will once again be contesting the election under the umbrella of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) as a candidate for Grand Turk North or All Island.

Recently, Weekly News reached out to Skippings to share his thoughts on what led him back to the PDM.

The statesman led his party in the November 2012, elections, losing by a slim margin - PNP gained eight seats, while the PDM won seven.

After some contention within the party ranks, Skipping resigned as leader, and went on to establish the Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in January 2015.

In 2020, Skippings first announced his return to the PDM, and during branch elections in January that year, he was voted chairman of the Grand Turk branch of the PDM after receiving 70 percent of the votes.

However, contention remained within ranks at time, with the party chairman Doug Parnell sharing that the former party leader’s suspension from the PDM was still in effect.

Parnell had reminded that the former leader had been suspended from the PDM because of his role in the PDA which went against the party’s constitution.

"Currently, Mr. Skippings cannot hold any office in the party until a position on his suspension and membership is decided on by our party’s NGC,” the former chairman had stated at the time.

Weekly News sought Hon Skippings's views on where the territory is heading and what he can offer as a returning candidate under the PDM ticket.

Q&A

1) Can you kindly share what has led you back to your roots (PDM)?

“The level and the speed of regression this country is experiencing, coupled with the cries of our people nationally and the daily requests from throughout the islands for my return to frontline politics, have finally persuaded me to make a comeback, and with a change in leadership in the PDM, the Party that I was very instrumental in launching

and shaping, it is my only option to make a comeback, apart from being a part of a third political entity.

“While the Turks and Caicos like the Bahamas is seemingly now ready for a third political group, it is much easier for the established PDM Party to win this upcoming general elections as long as it turns back to its roots ideologically and once again become the patriotic, caring and visionary People’s Party.”

2) Do you believe that the TCI has lost its way under the current governance? If yes, why/how?

“It is obvious and crystal clear that the current government has lost its way and is mercilessly without any fervor of nationalism and patriotism at all, dragging the country down the path of destruction, disempowerment and hopelessness. This is obvious in so many aspects of PNP governance.

To begin with, the youth as the most important natural resource and future of any country, are being neglected and too many are just being sidelined, ignored and basically rejected from being fully socially embraced and integrated into mainstream society and left out in the cold to fend for themselves.

“Hence, we have a rise in crime and a mass brain drain exodus to Britain seeking a better life. It has become so blatant and threatening that even the very young primary school-level Turks and Caicos Islanders are being rejected and refused entry in spite of already accounting for a mere twenty percent of students in the schools.

“Even after returning home from college fully qualified, Turks and Caicos Islanders are far too often refused deserved employment opportunities and equal pay with expatriate workers. Their rejection of our young men and women by this PNP government of gaining prominence in both the public and private sector both job wise and as entrepreneurs is amplified by the fact that the national scholarship program has been disgracefully and drastically cut this financial year to just a few scholarships.

“Even as aspiring small businessmen and businesswomen as Beach vendors, they have been kicked off the beach. In preference of foreigners.

“This PNP administration is in reverse gear speeding recklessly backward as they continue to not

only disempower its people, but they are castrating the central government by continually dismantling and or selling out economically viable government interests such as the Tourist Board, the airports and Grand Turk Cruise Port.

“The national health system is a total mess. Patients are still being misdiagnosed and the foreign doctors are befuddled by this medical travesty in this modern age. Though outnumbered, indigenous Turks and Caicos Islanders are dying like flies, and this does not seem to be of concern to the government. Just a few days ago I got a text from another overseas NHIP-referred patient seeking financial help because of being left financially stranded by NHIP.

“Serious, violent crime is on the increase and murders are now becoming the order of the day to the extent that tourism, the country’s main breadwinner is

being threatened.

“The government refuses to take necessary steps to stem the almost daily invasion by dangerous illegal immigrants. There are areas so infested by dangerous illegals that our Turks and Caicos police dare not enter. Private and crown land is being occupied and developed into shanty towns and some not shanty at all. These developments they undertake without planning approval and yet they are able, contrary to government policy, to get electricity. If a Turks and Caicos Islander dares to attempt to put up a structure without planning approval, they are brought to an immediate halt by the planning department. As legitimate generational Turks and Caicos Islanders, we have become third

class in our own country.

“The Island of Grand Turk the nation’s Capital has been ‘thrown to the dogs’ as my grandparents would have described it. The only thing akin to Capital about Grand Turk is punishment.

“The family Islands of Salt Cay, South Caicos, North and Middle Caicos are suffering similar neglect. There is so much more obvious manifestations of this PNP government losing its way and dragging the country down that path of regression, distraction and disempowerment socially, economically and unfortunately, politically as well.

Next week, we will share more on Hon Skippings' thoughts, particularly, what he believes he has to offer a new PDM government.

Former Chief Minister, Oswald Skippings

Politicians and diapers

How to be non-political and get away with it

“One of your recent articles was quite political”, a Grand Turk reader recently commented to me, referring to a piece I had written in July entitled “The buck stops here”. In our ensuing conversation I clarified that I always steer well clear of everyday party politics and don’t delve into PNP versus PDM dynamics. Instead, I leave such matters to individuals who are not only more adept but occasionally also more qualified to handle them.

What holds true, and perhaps what the reader was alluding to, is my belief that our current government system is deeply flawed and inadequate. I foresee a future, be it in five, ten, or twenty years, where the Turks and Caicos Islands may have no choice but to pursue independence. This, of course, would depend on whether a clearly defined sense of citizenship, a strong sense of nationhood, and genuine belonging become priorities for the electorate. It's crucial to note that this is my personal opinion, and I respect anyone who holds a different viewpoint. If and when independence becomes a part of any political manifesto, it will inevitably become a part of dayto-day politics. In such a scenario, assuming I'm still here, I'd prefer to observe and occasionally offer commentary. For now, it appears

BY TITUS DE BOER

our priorities lie elsewhere, and we may be bound to our current system for quite some time.

I actually empathise with politicians, I genuinely do; for once the initial post-election campaign excitement dims, and the novelty of luxurious SUVs, global travel, conferences, and lavish dinners wears off, their existence can often become frustrating. This is compounded by the political powerlessness that often characterises British Overseas Territories, where true authority resides with government bureaucrats, a London-appointed Governor, and various unelected officials. In view of this reality, it’s understandable why some politicians may secretly hope for just one term.

I vividly recall a meeting with a government minister that perfectly exemplified this observation. During the meeting, the minister frequently glanced at his mobile

phone while his permanent secretary addressed the topic under discussion. In fairness, the minister had only recently assumed responsibility for this particular portfolio and therefore it seemed wise not to comment on a subject he knew very little about.

Oscar Arias, a former president of Costa Rica and a Nobel laureate, once wisely remarked, “There is a difference between the typical politician and the statesman. A typical politician is that person who tells people what they want to hear, while the statesman tells people what they need to know.” While this statement holds true on many fronts, I would like to supplement it by noting that a typical politician often communicates what they believe people want to hear. Unfortunately, this approach can sometimes backfire, particularly when the politician is unprepared or lacks expertise on a given topic. This became evident in a recent

interview with an elected official, which suddenly turned to the country’s crime situation and its adverse impact on tourism.

Following some softball questions about the tourism industry, the interviewer, whose style of questioning was neither aggressive nor overly challenging, shifted gears slightly and asked about the rising crime rates and their potential impact on the tourism industry. With 14 murders in 2023 to date, this was a perfectly reasonable and expected question. However, the response was both astonishing and contradictory, leaving me perplexed. The official replied, “I don’t think it’s something we are concerned about, because things happen everywhere. And I believe that we have that under control by working along with the police and through national security, so I just don’t think that’s something we are really concerned about, based

on the fact that we have it under control. Because one incident is just too much for this little island, so —- we’re on it”.

The statement that left me most bewildered was, “I don't think it's something we are concerned about.” Even if one genuinely believed that “we're on it” and “we have that under control,” how could anyone not be concerned? It's perplexing when not a week passes without news of another shooting incident in Providenciales. Recently, in broad daylight, amidst the heart of the country's tourism hub, a person was fatally shot, in front of tourists and their young children. Yet, the response remains, “things happen everywhere.”

The U.K.-based Plain English Campaign has this quirky tradition of handing out an Annual Foot in Mouth Award, reserved for those head-scratching comments by public figures. Now, while I am not saying we have an abundance of candidates right here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, it might be entertaining to consider a local nominee or two. Or, if you're feeling particularly optimistic, you could simply trust in the electoral process of this blessed archipelago and embrace the Mark Twain philosophy that “Politicians and diapers must be changed often, and for the same reason.”

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

The U.K.-based Plain English Campaign has a tradition of handing out an Annual Foot in Mouth Award. Has the time come for a TCI recipient?

The American writer Samuel Langhorne Clemens, best known by his pen name Mark Twain, was a keen observer of the political class

A typical politician of communicates what they believe people want to hear. Unfortunately this approach can sometimes backfire.

TCI Immigration and Labour delegation visits Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

A delegation from the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services and the Labour Tribunal visited Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland from September 4-8 2023.

The Ministry was represented by Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr Pascal Bacchus and Madam President, Mrs M. Doreen Quelch Missick represented the Labour Tribunal.

This initiative was geared towards exposing the TCI to the workings of the Labour Tribunal in different jurisdictions, primarily, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, a statement from the government said on Thursday, September 21, 2023.

Training of staff was identified as one of the Key Programme Strategies of the Ministry and as such, this exposure provided the opportunity for participants to observe best practices, standards and policies in employment dispute resolution.

According to the government, a number of key similarities and differences were observed in both jurisdictions as well as a number of nuances were observed which can enhance the TCI commitment to resolving disputes equitably.

“All jurisdictions have provisions to resolve disputes through conciliation before reaching the labour tribunal stage.

“However, Northern Ireland has an additional layer in their dispute

resolution mechanism and that is Judicial Mediation.

“It is envisaged that these observed best practices will be adopted and implemented to form part of the decent work agenda ensuring social justice for all”, the government stated.

Participants were also given the opportunity to observe live Labour Tribunal Matters being adjudicated upon.

The agencies visited were; Labour Relations Agency –Northern Ireland, Office of the Industrial, Tribunals and Fair Employment Tribunal - Northern Ireland, Equality Commission - Northern Ireland Workplace Relations Commission – Republic of Ireland, Law Centre - Northern Ireland.

Commenting on this visit and collaboration, Minister for Immigration and Border Services with responsibilities for the Labour Tribunal, Hon Arlington Chuck Musgrove opined, “My ministry and government continues to upskill staff to ensure better service delivery to our citizens and those who work and reside among us. As our country continues to grow and develop, there will always be disputes between employers and employees.

“Hence, both the collaboration and training are timely, to ensure that disputes are resolved to the highest standards and to ensure equity for all involved.”

Deputy Permanent Secretary Pascal Bacchus and Tribunal President, Mrs M. Doreen Quelch meet with members of the Law Centre of Northern Ireland

Deputy Permanent Secretary Pascal Bacchus and Tribunal President Mrs M. Doreen Quelch visited the Office of the Industrial Tribunal and Fair Employment Tribunal of Northern Ireland

Scotiabank TCI wins “Best Digital Bank Award” for third year

Scotiabank has been named, for the third consecutive year, the Best Consumer Digital Bank in The Turks and Caicos Islands. The prestigious award was made by the highly respected North American finance magazine Global Finance.

Scotiabank's operations in The Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and The Cayman Islands also shared the honour.

Across the North and Central Caribbean region, the Bank also picked up sub-category awards for the best mobile app. Scotiabank Turks and Caicos has made significant investments in its digital infrastructure, innovating its platforms to deliver higher levels of customer satisfaction.

According to information from the bank, “Scotiabank Turks and Caicos’ success this year

was solidified by its expanded digital banking services, its newly introduced e-commerce business platform, and the launch of new mortgage pre-qualifications platform”.

Dr Suzan Snaggs-Wilson, managing director and country head for Scotiabank Turks & Caicos, has praised her team for supporting the bank’s customers during the digital transformation process. She further noted that the digital developments have significantly improved the bank’s customer engagement, satisfaction, and self-service channels.

"We are so thrilled to again receive this Best Consumer Digital Bank Award from Global Finance and we are delighted that our customers have embraced our digital improvements that have earned us this accolade once again.

For us, this award is a further testament to our commitment to refining and modernising the services that we offer all to the benefit of all our valued customers,” she noted.

The Best Consumer Digital Award celebrates a number of performance benchmarks, including a strategy to attract and

service digital customers, success in the onboarding and growth of digital consumers, and web and mobile design and functionality.

“Over the past three years, Scotiabank has significantly expanded its online footprint, with more than 70 per cent of all banking customers now onboarded. Online and Mobile

Banking now represents its second most utilized banking channel and growth of digital consumers, and web and mobile design and functionality.”

Founded in 1987 and distributed in more than 150 countries, Global Finance is the gold standard of service excellence in the financial sector.

Visa-free visitors to UK will soon need ETA for travel

The United Kingdom will soon be implementing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for all visitors from visa-free countries who do not need a visa for short stays, including those visiting from Europe.

The announcement was made last month by the Home Office, which indicated that the ETAs would replace Electronic Visa Waivers (EVWs) that are currently in use. It will come fully into use

by the end of 2024, but a staggered rollout to Middle Eastern countries beginning this October.

By the end of 2024, visitors from the United States, European Union and Canada will have to apply for ETA to visit the UK for short stays (six months or less), when transiting through the UK, for business or short-term study.

Weekly News has reached out to the Governor’s Office to ascertain whether Turks and

Caicos Islanders (or other British Overseas Territories Residents) will need to apply for an ETA prior to visiting the UK. However, by press time, there has been no response from the Office.

REQUIREMENTS AND STIPULATIONS

Meanwhile, according to the Home Office, an ETA will be valid for multiple journeys over a two-year

period or until the individual’s passport expires, whichever is sooner. Automated Authorisations will be issued within three working days.

An ETA will cost £10 per applicant when the scheme opens. UK and Irish citizens, UK legal residents and UK visa holders will be exempted from ETA.

The ETA application process opens on February 1, 2024, for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan,

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Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates or Saudi Arabia who intend to travel to the UK on or after February 22.

A national of Qatar will need an ETA if travelling to the UK on or after November 15, 2023, with the application process opening from October 25.

An application for an ETA will be refused where the applicant: has been convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas for which they have received a custodial sentence of 12 months or more.

Or where the applicant has been convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or overseas unless more than 12 months have passed since the date of conviction.

If the applicant has overstayed their permission, false representation, NHS debt or unpaid litigation.

Has breached a condition attached to their permission unless entry clearance or further permission was subsequently granted with knowledge of the breach; or were (or still are) illegal entrant; or used deception in relation to an immigration application (whether or not successfully). (DELANA ISLES)

Scotiabank Turks and Caicos (VisitTCI photo)

Poland no longer supplying weapons to Ukraine amid grain row

One of Ukraine’s staunchest allies, Poland, has said it is no longer supplying weapons to its neighbour, amid a diplomatic dispute over Kyiv’s grain exports.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said Poland’s focus was instead on defending itself with more modern weapons.

Poland has already sent Ukraine 320 Soviet-era tanks and 14 MiG29 fighter jets and has little more to offer.

However, the remarks coincide with high tensions between the two neighbours.

On Tuesday, Poland summoned Ukraine’s ambassador over comments made by President Volodymyr Zelensky at the United Nations after Poland, Hungary and Slovakia extended a ban on Ukrainian grain.

Mr Zelensky said it was alarming how some of Ukraine’s friends in Europe were playing out solidarity “in a political theatremaking a thriller from grain”.

Warsaw denounced his words as “unjustified concerning Poland, which has supported Ukraine since the first days of the war”. The two countries have since sought to cool the row down.

Mr Morawiecki was interviewed on Wednesday night by the private Polsat news TV channel hours after the Ukrainian ambassador had been summoned to the foreign ministry in Warsaw in response to the Ukrainian leader’s speech.

“We are no longer transferring weapons to Ukraine, because we are now arming Poland with more modern weapons,” the prime minister said.

He was adamant Poland was helping Ukraine defeat the “Russian barbarian” by maintaining a military hub, but would not agree to Poland’s markets being destabilised by grain imports, Polish state news agency

Pap reported.

“Our hub in Rzeszow, in agreement with the Americans and Nato, is fulfilling the same role the whole time as it has fulfilled and will fulfil.”

Poland’s military hardware has been depleted by about a third through transfers to Ukraine and Warsaw is in the process of replacing it with modern Westernproduced kit.

Arms exports to Ukraine will not stop completely as Polish manufacturer PGZ is due to send about 60 Krab artillery weapons in the coming months. Government spokesman Piotr Muller later clarified that only previously

agreed deliveries of ammunition and armaments would be delivered, including those from contracts signed with Ukraine.

Asked about the prime minister’s comments, Polish state assets minister Jacek Sasin told Radio Plus on Thursday that “at the moment it is as the prime minister said - in the future we will see”.

Poland’s ruling Law and Justice party has stepped up its rhetoric in recent weeks in the heat of an acrimonious election campaign, ahead of a 15 October vote, and it has sprung to the defence of Polish farmers who feel threatened by imports of Ukrainian grain.

Russia’s full-scale invasion forced Ukraine to find alternative, overland routes when the main Black Sea shipping lanes were all but closed.

That in turn led to large quantities of grain ending up in Central Europe.

Consequently, the European Union temporarily banned imports of grain into five countries, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, to protect local farmers, who feared Ukrainian grain was driving down the prices locally.

When the ban ended on 15 September, the EU chose not to renew it, but Hungary, Slovakia and Poland have maintained the ban, despite the European Commission emphasising it was not up to EU member states to decide broader trade policy.

Earlier this week, Ukraine filed lawsuits to the World Trade Organization (WTO) against those countries over the bans, which it said were a violation of international obligations.

Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said that it was “crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods”.

Sources said on Thursday that Kyiv had agreed to withdraw its lawsuit against Slovakia, after the two countries said a grain licence system would be set up in the coming months.

Poland has so far said the ban will stay in place, and a “complaint before the WTO doesn’t impress us”.

Mr Morawiecki said they would increase the number of banned products from Kyiv if Ukraine escalated the grain dispute.

India suspends visas for Canadians as row escalates

India has stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens amid an escalating row over the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

India said the temporary move was due to “security threats” disrupting work at its missions in Canada. Canada’s visa services remain open in India.

Tensions flared this week after Canada’s leader said India may have been involved in the 18 June killing.

India angrily rejected the allegation calling it “absurd”.

Relations between the countries - key trade and security partners, and US allies - have been strained for months. Analysts say they are now at an all-time low.

India’s government swiftly made clear the suspension of visa services also “applies to Canadians in a third country”.

“There have been threats made to our high commission [embassy] and consulates in Canada,” a foreign affairs ministry spokesman in Delhi said. “This has disrupted their normal functioning. Accordingly [they] are temporarily unable to process

Canada said it was investigating “credible allegations” linking India with the murder of the separatist leader

visa applications.”

He said: “India is looking for parity in rank and diplomatic strength between the diplomatic missions of the two countries. This is being sought because of Canadian diplomatic interference in our internal affairs.”

Hours earlier Canada had announced it was reducing its personnel in India, saying some diplomats had received threats on

social media.

“In light of the current environment where tensions have heightened, we are taking action to ensure the safety of our diplomats,” a statement said.

The two countries have historic close ties - and much is at stake.

Canada has 1.4 million people of Indian origin - more than half of them Sikhs - making up 3.7% of the country’s population, according to

the 2021 census. India also sends the highest number of international students to Canada - in 2022, they made up 40% of total overseas students at 320,000.

According to Indian government statistics, about 80,000 Canadian tourists visited India in 2021, behind only the US, Bangladesh and UK.

The row burst into the open on Monday after Canada linked India

with the murder of separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen who was shot dead in his vehicle by two masked gunmen outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada’s intelligence agencies were investigating whether “agents of the government of India” were involved in the killing of Nijjarwho India designated a terrorist in 2020.

India reacted strongly, saying Canada was trying to “shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists” who had been given shelter there. The Indian government has often reacted sharply to demands by Sikh separatists in Western countries for Khalistan, or a separate Sikh homeland.

The Khalistan movement peaked in India in the 1980s with a violent insurgency centred in Sikhmajority Punjab state.

It was quelled by force and has little resonance in India now, but is still popular among some in the Sikh diaspora in countries such as Canada, Australia and the UK. (BBC)

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said Poland’s focus was instead on defending itself with more modern weapons

Haitian gangs call for armed overthrow of PM Henry as chaos escalates

Haiti’s most powerful gang leader called for the armed overthrow of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, urging Haitians to take to the streets against the unelected government in the latest escalation of a country undergoing humanitarian crisis.

Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, a former police officer who now heads a powerful coalition of gangs that controls large parts of Port-au-Prince, led his group of armed men on a march through the capital on Tuesday, blocking roads and banging drums.

“We are launching the fight to overturn Ariel Henry’s government in any way,” gang leader Cherizier told Reuters. “Our fight will be with weapons.”

He added that “demonstrations in all working-class neighborhoods” would take place daily against Henry’s government, which he said had no legitimacy.

Haitian gangs, which frequently engage police in gun battles and profit from activities such as extortion and drug trafficking, have grown in strength since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

The assassination created a power vacuum, with Prime Minister Ariel Henry governing on an interim basis since. Henry has pledged to hold elections once security is re-established, and has called for international help in fighting the gangs.

“The international community

Cayman Islands to open Singapore office

The Cayman Islands Government is set to establish an Asia Office in Singapore following cabinet approval.

It will be headed by the government’s overseas representative to Asia, Gene DaCosta, and is expected to have a physical presence in the final quarter of this year.

The Asia office will establish and nurture strong public and private sector relations, create effective communication between the Cayman Islands and key Asian countries and advance financial services interests.

DaCosta, said: “Having the office based in Singapore allows the Cayman Islands Government the

Bahamas Govt in a cash crunch over payments - Pintard

cannot continue to do this in Haiti,” Cherizier said. “If the international community has nothing to do with (Moise’s) death, they must not support Ariel Henry.”

Cherizier also said that residents of the densely populated Carrefour Feuilles neighborhood who left their homes because of gang violence would soon be able to return and live in peace.

The threat from Cherizier comes as Kenya assesses leading a multinational United Nationsbacked force to help Haiti’s undergunned police fight the gangs.

More than 19,000 people have been displaced from the capital in recent weeks due to the outbreak of armed violence, according to U.N. estimates. (Reuters)

THE FNM on Tuesday night claimed that there has been a “significant number of complaints” over payment delays by the government.

Party leader Michael Pintard issued a statement in which said the Opposition had received complaints from Bahamian vendors and financial institutions about “extreme delays” in payments.

He said: “The issues with timely payments have progressively worsened over the two years of the PLP administration.”

He particularly pinpointed concerns over payments to contractors for the Urban Renewal programme in Grand Bahama, who he said had not been paid for months, “despite completing roof repairs months ago”.

Mr Pintard added: “We understand that the government has been increasingly tardy in

remitting the funds deducted from civil servants to the various credit unions, insurance companies and other institutions.

“Even though the funds are deducted from their salaries monthly, an unacceptable number of public servants are now facing late fees and lapsed insurance policies because the government is not sending the monies out of these institutions on time.”

He added: “Some contractors owed by the government indicate that their debts are being settled in small installments due to the scarcity of funds available. Increasingly, businesses only deal with the government if it pays with cash. Far too many family island government departments are allegedly not receiving their allocated funds on time, putting extreme pressure on residents, businesses and those who rely on the public purse.”

ability to quickly and effectively provide the necessary support our stakeholders in the region may require from time to time.

“Indeed, Hong Kong is a particularly important locale for us as it has longstanding, strong business relationships to Cayman. I’m expecting to have frequent in-person meetings in Hong Kong (likely quarterly visits at a minimum), alongside those that will occur in Singapore and other jurisdictions in Asia.”

This is the Cayman Islands Government’s latest public sector overseas office following the opening of an office in Washington DC in December 2022.

(International Adviser)

Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, a former police officer who now heads a powerful coalition of gangs that controls large parts of Port-au-Prince

FNM leader Michael Pintard

Regional News

Roof falling in at Bermuda governor’s mansion, governor and family evacuated

The Governor of Bermuda and her family have moved out of Government House because it has been deemed unsafe to live in and needs “urgent” repairs.

Rena Lalgie, her husband and their children are staying in temporary accommodation paid for by taxpayers until the work is completed. For reasons of security, their new address has not been published.

The news comes 18 months after Parliament heard that the 19th-century building on Langton Hill was suffering from extensive water damage because of leaking roofs and faulty windows but major repairs were deferred owing to a lack of cash.

A government spokeswoman told The Royal Gazette last week: “Following the receipt of an interim update on the condition of Government House, it has been determined that urgent works are required to make Government House safe for occupation.

“In the interim, the Governor is in alternative temporary accommodation, the cost of which is being met by the Government of Bermuda in keeping with our responsibilities to properly house the Governor and her family.”

The spokeswoman said: “Once a full assessment has been received, this will inform decisions regarding the remediation of Government House and its ongoing use as a working residence.”

She said payment for the temporary accommodation would come out of Government House’s capital development budget but did not answer a question about how much it would cost.

The most recent Government Budget listed $5.2 million in total authorised funding for Government House improvements, with $1.7 million having being spent as of March 31, 2022. This year’s allocation was $380,000 and last year it was $300,000.

Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs, told the House of Assembly in March last year that

the $300,000 allocation for 202223 would be spent on “ongoing maintenance” of the house, with major long-lasting repairs on hold because of a lack of funds.

He said: “It should be noted that Government House was initially constructed in 1871 and has a deteriorating infrastructure, which will require substantial capital investment to provide a safe working environment for staff and a safe residence for Her Excellency.”

Mr Roban said the windows needed replacing, at a cost of almost $2 million, and the roof

needed replacing, at an estimated cost of $450,000.

The minister admitted water damage would increase “exponentially” until those major capital projects and associated operational costs could be funded.

The previous year, the Government was urged to take urgent action to prevent the Deputy Governor’s official residence from falling into disrepair, but decided against it.

Montpelier, a Grade III-listed building in Devonshire, had been empty since 2018 and the publicly owned structure had started to

deteriorate.

Civil servants at the Ministry of Public Works sought to carry out internal renovations and upgrade outside facilities to include a swimming pool and garage but works minister Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch withheld funding for the plan.

He said then: “At this juncture, I can confirm that work on this property will not commence at any time in the near future and that no funds have been budgeted or allocated for the same.”

Bermuda Governor Sir Richard Sharples was killed outside Bermuda’s Government House on 10 March 1973 in the gardens of Government House. An informal dinner party for a small group of guests had just concluded, when he decided to go for a walk with his Great Dane, Horsa, and his aide-de-camp, Captain Hugh Sayers of the Welsh Guards. The two men and dog were ambushed and gunned down outside the Governor’s residence.

Although there were suspects, the culprits were never caught and brought to trial.

An independence referendum was held in Bermuda on 16 August 1995 for voters to decide whether Bermuda should become an independent sovereign state or remain a British Dependent Territory. On a voter turnout of 59%, 74% voted against independence. (StKittsNevisObserver)

Super Value head says Food cost up by 30 per cent in the Bahamas

The head of Super Value, the Bahamas’ leading chain of supermarkets said a review of 15 commonly-bought items revealed that The Bahamas sustained food inflation of around 30 per cent over the past two years, adding: “The customers are re-training us.”

Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business that the simple assessment, involving products shoppers purchase on a weekly basis such as bread, rice and poultry, exposed that the extent of food price increases between 2021 and 2023 was triple or three times’ what some of his buyers had projected

And, predicting that surging global oil prices will send Bahamian gasoline prices to $6.25 per gallon within weeks, he predicted that the ever-increasing cost of living - and the crisis it poses for many middle and lower

income households - will take a growing cut of Super Value’s sales and those of all grocery retailers.

“Somebody asked the buyers what they thought inflation was since 2021,” Mr Roberts told this newspaper. “They said probably 10 per cent. I had the Abaco store take 15 items that customers buy each week, and it came to 30 per cent.... The figure was more like 30 per cent. We tried to pick the items everybody shops for every week - the bread, the rice, the poultry and milk. That’s what we came up with.”

He added that Super Value and its buying team were paying especially close attention to their customers’ shopping habits to identify which products are either too expensive or not popular. Any items that are not selling are “sold-off” at half-price to ensure all inventory is exhausted before

Food prices has significantly increased since the pandemic

their expiry date and then never purchased again.

“Things the customers are avoiding, pricey merchandise, I suppose cooking oil and mayonnaise, the items that always take the increase, we sell them off at half-price to meet the expiry date and probably never order them again in history,” Mr Roberts

explained.

“Customers are retraining us. Anything that’s too expensive we will not buy or re-order. Any new brand at a lower price, if they don’t like the flavour then we don’t buy it. We try it and eliminate it. I’ve said to the buyers that the customers are teaching us when the prices are too high, they are teaching us when

they don’t like the flavour or when they don’t like a new item.

“We just sell it off at a low cost and get rid of it, and don’t go there no more. We’re certainly trying to keep the cost of living down; that’s why we’re working so hard. Those items that went too high, and the customers stopped buying, we are able to take them, sell them off a half-price to beat the expiry date, and put two-thirds of the money back in the bank.”

The Super Value principal, though, warned that food price inflation is having a negative impact on health because it is pushing many consumers to lower price foods that are not positive for their wellness. “It’s driving the consumer to the more economical, unhealthy foods, which is the wrong way to go because it impacts the health of the nation,” Mr Roberts told Tribune Business.

The 19th-century building on Langton Hill

World News

Rishi Sunak denies his net zero plan is wishful thinking

Rishi Sunak has insisted the UK will meet its net zero targets despite being accused of “wishful thinking” by the government’s own climate adviser.

In an interview with the BBC, the PM said he was not slowing down efforts to combat climate change, after a major overhaul of some green policies.

The move has provoked a backlash, with the Climate Change Committee (CCC) saying the UK had “moved backwards”.

But Mr Sunak said he was “confident” the UK would hit net zero by 2050.

In a bid to seize the political agenda, the prime minister announced exemptions and delays to several key green policies, alongside a 50% increase in cash incentives to replace gas boilers.

Key among the changes in his speech was a five-year delay in the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars.

Lagging far behind Labour in the polls, the Conservatives under Mr Sunak are seeking to create dividing lines with opposition parties ahead of a general election, expected next year.

For weeks, Mr Sunak has been signalling a shift in approach to net zero, which means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into and removed from the atmosphere.

He has sought to frame his changes to green policies as “pragmatic” and has highlighted

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has defended major changes to key policies aimed at curbing carbon emissions

the costs of low-carbon technology, such as electric cars.

But earlier this year, the Climate Change Committee - the government’s independent advisers on cutting carbon emissionswarned that the UK’s attempts to achieve its net zero commitments were already “worryingly slow”.

The chief executive of the committee, Chris Stark, said the changes announced by Mr Sunak on Wednesday would make it harder for the government to hit legally binding climate goals.

“The wishful thinking here is that we have not got a policy package to hit the legal targets this country has set in law,” Mr Stark told the BBC.

Although he agreed that “you can’t just wish and will your way to net zero”, Mr Sunak said “people have asserted these targets without having an honest conversation with

the country about what’s required to deliver them”.

HONESTY QUESTIONED

Since his speech, Mr Sunak has faced criticism for claiming he was “scrapping” proposals to increase air fares to discourage foreign holidays and tax meat consumption, neither of which have ever been government policies.

In the interview, the BBC’s Nick Robinson asked Mr Sunak if he was being “honest” about scrapping policies that “don’t exist”.

Taking aim at the CCC, Mr Sunak accused the committee of “euphemistically” proposing compulsory car-pooling, as well as a tax on meat.

When asked where this proposal had come from, the prime minister said the CCC had called for ministers to “implement measures” for “accelerated change in diets”.

In its 2023 report assessing the government’s net zero plans, the committee proposed “low-cost, low-regret” action to reduce meat consumption - not a tax.

The full recommendation from the report, published in June, is: “Take low-cost, low-regret actions to encourage a 20% shift away from all meat by 2030, rising to 35% by 2050, and a 20% shift from dairy products by 2030, demonstrating leadership in the public sector whilst improving health.”

Mr Sunak was asked whether, by going against the recommendations of the committee, he was copying former Prime Minister Liz Truss by ignoring advice on her economic policies.

In response, Mr Sunak said: “I’m happy to get opinions and advice from everybody and everyone’s entitled to their view”.

And on being pressed on the prospect of legal challenges over his plans, he said he had “absolute confidence and belief” the UK will hit its targets. (BBC)

The prime minister said Wednesday’s speech was the first in a series which would “change the direction of our country”, adding: “I know I’ll get criticism and flak but I’m not going to be deterred.”

He denied he was changing green policies for short-term political gain, as his party struggles to catch up with Labour in the polls.

Labour said the watering down of green pledges would cost the

public more in the long term and accused Mr Sunak “selling out” the opportunity for a jobs boom.

Ed Miliband, Labour’s shadow energy security secretary, said he relished the opportunity to go “toeto-toe” with the Conservatives on net zero during the election campaign.

In a move to widen the policy gap between the two main parties, Labour said it remained committed to the phase out of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.

CLIMATE LEADERSHIP

This year has been one of recordbreaking temperatures and extreme weather events. Under the 2015 Paris climate agreement, 197 countries - including the UK - agreed to try to limit global temperature rises to 1.5C by 2100.

To achieve this, scientists say net zero CO2 emissions should be reached by 2050.

But the United Nations wants countries to bring forward their net zero targets to avert what it has called “the growing climate disaster”.

Although the UK is only responsibly for 1% of global emissions, it has been one of the most ambitious countries in cutting its carbon footprint.

Following Mr Sunak’s announcement, climate activists and some Conservative MPs have accused the prime minister of abandoning the UK’s climate leadership.

Five to be charged in UK with spying for Russia

Five people suspected of spying for Russia are to be charged with conspiracy to conduct espionage.

Orlin Roussev, Bizer Dzhambazov, Katrin Ivanova, Ivan Stoyanov, and Vanya Gaberova will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

The Bulgarian nationals are accused of conspiring to gather information which would be useful to an enemy between August 2020 and February 2023.

It follows an investigation by the Metropolitan Police.

The defendants are alleged to have worked in an operational spy cell for the Russian security services and that this work involved conducting surveillance on targets.

They are accused of working on active operations in the UK and Europe and collecting and passing information to the Russian state.

Mr Roussev, 45, is alleged to

have run operations from the UK and acted as the link to those who received the intelligence.

Officers who searched properties in London and Norfolk occupied by three of the defendants - Mr Roussev, Mr Dzhambazov, 41, and Ms Ivanova, 31 - found allegedly fake passport and official identity documents for the UK, Bulgaria, France, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and the Czech Republic.

Some of the documents contained photographs of Mr Roussev and Mr Dzhambazov. It is alleged Mr Roussev made forgeries himself.

The group are also accused of organising a surveillance operation in Montenegro which involved the creation of fake identification cards for journalists, including one in the image of Ms Ivanova.

Mr Roussev, Mr Dzhambazov, and Ms Ivanova have lived in the

UK for years, working in a variety of jobs, and living in a series of suburban properties.

Mr Roussev has a history of business dealings in Russia. He moved to the UK in 2009 and spent three years working in a technical

role in financial services.

His LinkedIn profile states he later owned a business involved in signals intelligence, which involves the interception of communications or electronic signals.

Mr Roussev, whose most recent

address is a seaside guesthouse in Great Yarmouth, also states he once acted as an adviser to the Bulgarian ministry of energy.

In Harrow, former neighbours described Mr Dzhambazov and Ms Ivanova as a couple.

Mr Dzhambazov is described as a driver for hospitals and Ms Ivanova describes herself on her LinkedIn profile as a laboratory assistant for a private health business.

The pair, who moved to the UK around a decade ago, ran a community organisation providing services to Bulgarian people, including familiarising them with the “culture and norms of British society”.

According to Bulgarian state documents online, they also worked for electoral commissions in London which facilitate voting in Bulgarian elections by citizens living abroad. (BBC)

Orlin Roussev, Katrin Ivanova and Bizer Dzhambazov have lived in the UK for years

King’s diplomatic speech to French Senate receives standing ovation

King Charles received a standing ovation for his speech to the French Senate, where he delivered a strongly-worded call for a victory for Ukraine in its war against Russia’s “horrifying” invasion.

The speech, delivered with sections in French and English, also highlighted the “existential challenge” of climate change.

There had been attention to see if there would be any response from the King to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s change over net zero.

But a diplomatically worded speech seemed to avoid any coded criticism.

“Although the challenge facing our planet is both great and grave, it has been increasingly heartening to see action that is being taken by our governments, our people and more and more by the private sector,” the King told the Senate.

Monarchs speak on the advice of ministers so such an official speech would be expected to maintain

political neutrality.

But it was certainly awkward timing to have the prime minister’s change of direction on net zero coming alongside a state visit with a focus on protecting the environment.

So there is still likely to be

scrutiny for signs of any rift on climate change between Downing Street and Buckingham Palace.

In his speech, the King said he wanted to “nourish and cherish” the entente cordiale between France and Britain, but he also wanted it to become a relationship

that promoted sustainability.

The King, who looked round the grand Senate chamber and seemed quite moved by the lengthy applause, had invoked the wartime unity of Britain and France as an example of joining forces for modern battles.

As well as climate change, he highlighted the war in Ukraine as a shared struggle for democratic values, responding to the “unprovoked aggression on our continent”.

“Together we are steadfast in our determination Ukraine will triumph and that our cherished freedoms will prevail,” said the King, in a section delivered in French.

The King also highlighted how much his mother, the late Queen, had loved France, in a speech that emphasised the long alliance between the two countries. It was a serious speech, without much in the way of jokes, but

it seemed to have been well received, particularly with the King’s readiness to use so much French.

French language expert

Malcolm Massey, of the Babbel language app, praised the King’s pronunciation of French and a “relatively good accent”.

In a rainy Paris, the King and Queen visited another national icon, Notre Dame, to see progress on restoration after the cathedral’s devastating fire.

There was also a meeting with sports stars, including former Chelsea footballer Didier Drogba, and Queen Camilla launched an Anglo-French literary prize. She told guests at an event at the French national library that she’d been a student in Paris 60 years ago.

The final day of the three-day trip will see the King and Queen visiting environmental projects in Bordeaux. (BBC)

Saudi Arabia getting closer to Israel normalisation deal, prince says

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince has said “every day we get closer” to normalising ties with Israel.

A deal between the two powers would mark a huge regional shift.

But in a rare interview with Fox News, Mohammed bin Salman stressed the Palestinian issue was still a “very important” part of USbrokered talks.

As part of the negotiation process, the Wall Street Journal said Israeli and US officials were working on a plan that could see Riyadh openly enrich uranium.

Enriched uranium can be used to make nuclear reactor fuel but also nuclear weapons.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuwho has previously warned about the dangers of a Middle Eastern nuclear arms race - has not publicly responded to that article.

The Fox News interview aired shortly after Mr Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden met on the side-lines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

They also spoke positively about the chances of a breakthrough that would see Israel and Saudi Arabia establishing diplomatic relations for the first time. The US is a close ally of both countries.

An Israeli official statement said the meeting in New York “mostly dealt with ways to establish an historic peace agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which could greatly advance an end to the Arab-Israeli conflict”.

Israel’s Foreign Minister, Eli

Cohen, later said that a framework deal could be in place by early next year. “The gaps can be bridged,” Mr Cohen told Israel’s Army Radio. “It will take time. But there is progress.”

The Biden administration hopes such a timeframe would enable it to clinch ratification in the US Congress - where many, particularly in the president’s own Democratic Party, are critical of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. It would then have a significant foreign policy achievement to show ahead of November’s US presidential election.

Like most Arab countries, Saudi Arabia has held off from recognising Israel out of solidarity with the Palestinians.

However, since late last year, the US has been trying to bring about a breakthrough that would build on the so-called Abraham Accords mediated by the Trump administration, which saw Israel sign bilateral agreements on

normalisation with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain in 2020.

In exchange for normalising ties with Israel, Saudi Arabia - which positions itself as a leader in the Middle East and the Islamic world - is asking for major military support from the US, cooperation in establishing its own civilian nuclear programme, and significant Israeli concessions to the Palestinians.

The latter would be extremely difficult to achieve under the most religious and nationalist government in Israel’s history.

“For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part,” Crown Prince Mohammed, who is Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader, told Fox News correspondent Bret Baier in English.

He commented: “We have a good negotiations strategy till now.”

Earlier this month, leaders of the Palestinian Authority held

talks with Saudi officials in Riyadh to lay out their demands for a possible deal involving the US, Saudi Arabia and Israel. The BBC learned that these included a cash boost of hundreds of millions of dollars and more control of land in the occupied West Bank.

Questioned during his interview about working with Mr Netanyahu’s hard-line government, Prince Mohammed said: “If we have a breakthrough, reaching a deal that gives the Palestinians their needs and [making] the region calm, we’ve got to work with whoever’s there.”

Many members of Israel’s current governing coalition are firmly opposed to the internationally backed idea of the two-state solution to end the IsraelPalestinian conflict. This would see an independent Palestinian state create alongside Israel in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with its capital in East Jerusalem.

Ahead of the prime minister’s

talks in New York, 11 law-makers within his own right-wing Likud party said in a joint statement that they would block attempts to give land to the Palestinians in exchange for peace with Saudi Arabia.

The Wall Street Journal report has raised separate concerns for Israeli politicians.

“Normalisation that includes agreeing to turn Saudi Arabia into a nuclear power under the auspices of a ring-wing government is dangerous madness,” Tali Gottlieb, a Likud member of parliament wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The US newspaper said that Mr Netanyahu told senior nuclear and security experts in Israel to cooperate with American negotiators on a proposal for a “US-run uranium enrichment operation” in Saudi Arabia, quoting unnamed officials. They said that safeguards would be included and that the plan had yet to be signed off by President Biden.

Saudi nuclear plans did come up in the Fox News interview with Prince Mohammed.

Asked about the possibility of his kingdom’s regional rival, Iran, eventually building a nuclear weapon, the Saudi leader said: “We are concerned of any country getting a nuclear weapon”.

He reiterated a point that he has previously made, that if Iran were to obtain a nuclear bomb, Saudi Arabia would “have to get one, for security reasons, for balancing power.”

King Charles spoke of the war in Ukraine, climate change and a number of other topical issues

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made the comments in an interview with Fox News

Game of Thrones author sues ChatGPT owner OpenAI

US authors George RR Martin and John Grisham are suing ChatGPTowner OpenAI over claims their copyright was infringed to train the system.

Martin is known for his fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire, which was adapted into HBO show Game of Thrones.

ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs) “learn” by analysing a massive amount of data often sourced online.

The lawsuit claims the authors’ books were used without their permission to make ChatGPT smarter.

OpenAI said it respected the rights of authors, and believed “they should benefit from AI technology”.

Other prominent authors named in the complaint include Jonathan Franzen, Jodi Picoult and George Saunders.

The case has been brought to the federal court in Manhattan, New York, by the Authors Guild, a trade

group in the US working on behalf of the named authors.

According to the filing, it accused OpenAI of engaging in “systematic theft on a mass scale”.

It follows similar legal action brought by comedian Sarah Silverman in July, as well as an open letter signed by authors Margaret Atwood and Philip Pullman that same month calling for AI companies to compensate them for using their work.

A spokesperson for OpenAI said: “We’re having productive conversations with many creators around the world, including the Authors Guild, and have been working co-operatively to understand and discuss their concerns about AI.

“We’re optimistic we will continue to find mutually beneficial ways to work together.”

AI ‘DISPLACING HUMANS’

The case argues that the LLM was

The

fed data from copyrighted books without the permission of the authors, in part because it was able to provide accurate summaries of them.

The lawsuit also pointed to a broader concern in the media industry - that this kind of technology is “displacing humanauthored” content.

Patrick Goold, reader in law at City University, told BBC News that while he could sympathise with the authors behind the lawsuit, he believed it was unlikely it would succeed, saying they would

initially need to prove ChatGPT had copied and duplicated their work.

“They’re actually not really worried about copyright, what they’re worried about is that AI is a job killer,” he said, likening the concerns to those screenwriters are currently protesting against in Hollywood.

“When we’re talking about AI automation and replacing human labour... it’s just not something that copyright should fix.

“What we need to be doing is going to Parliament and Congress

and talking about how AI is going to displace the creative arts and what we need to do about that in the future.”

The case is the latest in a long line of complaints brought against developers of so-called generative AI - that is, artificial intelligence that can create media based on text prompts - over this concern.

It comes after digital artists sued text-to-image generators Stability AI and Midjourney in January, claiming they only function by being trained on copyrighted artwork.

hit TV show Game of Thrones was based on George RR Martin’s novels

Murdoch steps down

Media mogul Rupert Murdoch says he is stepping down as chairman of Fox and News Corp, with his son Lachlan to head both companies.

In a memo to employees, Murdoch said “the time is right” for him to take on “different roles”.

Murdoch, 92, launched Fox News in 1996. It is now the most watched TV news channel in the US.

Murdoch said he will transition to the role of Chairman Emeritus of both firms in mid-November.

It comes months after the mogul ditched a plan to merge Fox and News Corp, which would have reunited two major media assets.

“Our companies are in robust health, as am I. Our opportunities far exceed our commercial challenges,” he wrote. “We have every reason to be optimistic about the coming years - I certainly am, and plan to be here to participate in them.”

The announcement of Murdoch’s transition comes during a turbulent year for Fox, which in April agreed to pay a $787.5m (£634m) settlement after being sued by voting machine company Dominion over its reporting of the 2020 presidential election. The network is still facing a second, similar lawsuit from another voting technology firm, Smartmatic, seeking an even larger sum of $2.7bn.

On 25 April, the company also announced it would “part ways” with Tucker Carlson, the network’s highest rating TV host.

The Murdoch transition comes a year before the US presidential election. The right-leaning network has significant influence in US politics and is hosting a number

of debates between Republicans competing to be the party’s White House candidate.

In his memo to staff, the conservative Murdoch vowed to continue to be involved in the “contest of ideas”.

He also criticised other media outlets as being “in cahoots” with a “rarefied class” of elites who he accused of “peddling political narratives rather than pursuing the truth”.

In a statement, Lachlan Murdoch - who returned to the family business in 2014 after an abrupt departure nearly a decade earlier - said that his father “will continue to provide valued counsel to both companies”.

The elder Murdoch began his career in his native Australia in the 1950s, eventually buying the News of the World and The Sun newspapers in the UK in 1969.

He later purchased a number of US publications including the New York Post and Wall Street Journal. Through News Corp, he remains the owner of hundreds of local, national and international media outlets.

Until today’s announcement, Lachlan Murdoch had served as the executive chair of Fox Corporation and Nova Entertainment.

Fox shares rose almost 2% following the announcement that Murdoch was stepping down.

Professor Anat Alon-Beck, a corporate law expert, said that ultimately market reaction to Lachlan’s promotion will depend on whether Fox has a “solid and smart” plan that ensures “that the company’s leadership isn’t jeopardised just because the most powerful person CEO leaves the role”. (BBC)

Rupert Murdoch said his son Lachlan (R) would head both Fox and News Corp

as Fox and News Corp chairman in favour of son Lachlan

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0550

3 BARBERS

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, or giving shaves. Sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.

$8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 441-3791

2 FINISHING WOOD CARPENTERS

DOMESTIC WORKER

FULL TIME GOVERNESS

CONTACT: 242-2229

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

Taking coconuts from the tree and peeling them to have them ready to sell, cleaning area, preparing coconuts to eat.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-347-7980

CONTACT: 442-6220

TEL: 947-0561

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.01 NOTICE OF LOST LAND CERTIFICATE

TITLE NUMBER 60806/9 SECTION ISLAND

THE BIGHT & THOMAS STUBBS PROVIDENCALES

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

IS URGENTLY LOOKING FOR A FLORIST CONTACT:

231-3788

Whereas, VIOLET THOMPSON of The Bight, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands has declared thatthe Land Certificate for the abovementioned title number(s) registered in the names of VIOLET THOMPSON, Share½ and ALBERT DELANCEY, Share½ as proprietors in common was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

Take Notice that I, Nicholas Arculus, Solicitor (England of Wales) The Registrar of Lands, shall cancel the Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 4th day of August 2023

Publicized by Order Registrar of Lands.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Caring for young children, collecting children from school or nursery school, babysitting, feeding and caring for pets and light garden duties.

CONTACT: 649-947-6909

Applicant must be honest, reliable and good with the elderly. Dispensing of medications, bathing and keeping the area clean. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 342-7910

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 342-0224

Setting up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment. Preparing ingredients to use in cooking chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

$8.00

CONTACT: 441-0377

Taking food and beverage orders, serving customers.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-333-8217

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

GARDENER

CONTACT:

HANDY CRAFTER EXECUTIVE CHEF

PLUMBER

CONTACT: 331-1809

MECHANIC HELPER

Assist with inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotation and changes, wheel balancing, replacing filters.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4926

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

VACANCIES

DOMESTIC WORKER

FRANK 'S HARDWARE Kew North Caicos

To clean inside and outside of store

CONTACT: 247-6266

WILKER MISSICK Kew North Caicos

To clean up work sight and some farming from time to time.

CONTACT: 343-1844

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

38654

• For men and women.

• Needs 5 years’ experience in cutting, coloring and styling up do’s.

• Diploma from USA and valid cosmetology license required.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 247-2525

HI FASHION

TAILOR

Duties include but not limited to: Sewing clothes & other items. Mending of clothes and other items. Other duties as assigned. Salary $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-941-8053

KITCHEN HELPER

Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-2267

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

MAINTENANCE WORKER

• Perform minor fixes such as repairing broken craft’s etc.

• Load/unload equipment into work vehicles

• Maintain the maintenance tools and assist co-workers when needed.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-3580

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

CONTACT: 649-247-8524

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

CONTACT: 344-3710

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 649-241-5563 38643

• Set up workstation as needed and prepare ingredients to use.

• Keeping a sanitized and orderly environment.

• Check quality of ingredients and monitor for shortages.

Salary: $9.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT: 345-7087

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-241-5563 38644

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

PROFESSIONAL UPHOLSTERY

UPHOLSTERER

Examine furniture frames, upholstery, springs and webbing to repair furniture and frames.

Salary: $10.0 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 246-1778

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 346-8381 38674

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 341-6897 38658

Diving to catch fish and other marine life that will be consumed by humans or used as animal feed or bait. Salary: $8.00 hourly

mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 946-4957/ RICHHILLPREP@YAHOO.COM

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

CONTACT: 247-4109

38777 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY Long Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a Must be experienced in the mounting systems below: • Ballasted Roof • Tile Roof • Sheet-Metal Roof • Ground Salary commensurate with experience.

ET CONSTRUCTION

FIDELITY CONSTRUCTION

STEELMAN

STEELMAN

$10.00

BELONGERS

APPLY

38750 BELONGERS

TO

THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

38741

Glass Shack Is seeking to employ a HUDSON STEPHENSON JENNINGS

FREDNA

DOMESTIC

LABOURER Kew Town, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a FMM MAINTENANCE SERVICE/ CLEANING SERVICES

BELONGERS ARE

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

38753

J&W CONSTRUCTION

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 245-0345 OR 231-4519

LABOURER

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

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 341-1977

61 Mary Jane Lane, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

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

MAINTENANCE WORKER

LABOURER Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

Sweeping, mopping, clean

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

CONTACT: 345-7087 ISLAND PAINTING

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

38745

Salary: $8.00 hourly

BELONGERS

JEAN JOSEPH & VIRGINIE JOSEPH

SOUTH DOCK ROAD Is seeking to employ a

MASON Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a ERIKA MEP SALES & SERVICES

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

KESMART

BABYSITTER

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

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

LABOURER Glass Shack Is seeking to employ a J. WILLIAMS 38758 Duties Include: Maintaining home and rental spaces. Painting, cleaning, storage and yard maintenance. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

38771

Salary:

CONTACT: 342-5808 38768

CONTACT: 243-0142

LIVE-IN

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and houseworkother

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-1208

DOMESTIC WORKER

bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

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

CONTACT: 344-4485

MAINTENANCE WORKER

Ensuring a environment,safe preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressingmedicine,administeringchildren, doing housework, and etc.

$8.00

CONTACT: 332-9824

PRINCE ALBERT CONSTRUCTION

CONTACT: 244-8820

CONTACT: 649-241-5563 38712

CONTACT: 347-5555

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

To be in charge of vessel's cargo operations. Responsible for the safety and security of the ship, as well as the welfare of the crew on board.

Salary: $8.50 hourly

CONTACT: 241-4153

HEAVY DUTY TRUCK DRIVER

Load and Offload cargo at Dock. Maintain safe driving. Deliver Packages promptly.

Basic Salary: $8.50 per hour

CONTACT: 649-347-2268

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUMES TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

WANTED TURKS & CAICOS

ISLANDER MECHANIC

Seeking to recruit a Turks & Caicos Islander experienced mechanic.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

An independent workshop in Providenciales working on a wide variety of vehicles (North American, UK, and Japanese) with a particular interest in Land Rover Defenders. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and ambitious technician to join a highly professional and skilled team with high levels of experience.

As a technician, you will be responsible for delivering a high standard of service and building a strong customer-client relationship. This will be a hands-on technical role within a close-knit team, therefore teamwork skills are essential. This role will come with a competitive salary as well as the opportunity to grow with the business.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Delivering excellent results whilst maintaining high productivity

• Working with the team to provide a high standard of communication and problem-solving.

• A Strong Customer Focus

• Mechanical, Hydraulic, Electrical and Diagnostic Work

• Full understanding of Vehicle Air Conditioning Systems

• Preparing professional and technical written reports for customers and service advisors

REQUIREMENTS:

• Educational Experience – Preferred minimum formal qualifications however, due consideration will be given to the extent of the applicant’s experience only.

• Knowledge and experience of using diagnostic scan tools and reading wiring schematics.

• MET Qualification preferred but not essential (welding & body panels)

• Knowledge of Methods, Techniques, Parts, Tools and materials used in the Maintenance and Repair of Vehicles

• Experience in Testing, Diagnostics, HVAC service, Hydraulic, Brakes, Testing, and Repair of Electronic Systems and Modules.

HOW TO APPLY:

• Please send a CV and Cover Letter to info@tcdefenders.com

• References will be required for successful candidates.

A SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR

The successful applicant must possess

• Diploma in Building Technology or RICS-Recognised Qualification.

• Ten years post qualification work experience.

• Computer literate with experience in Word, Excel, MS Project & BQ system software Duties will include and candidates should have experience in:

• Pre and post contract Quantity Surveying duties

• Contract Administration

• Design Co-ordination

An annual salary of $42,000.00 plus performance. Related commission is offered for this position.

The suitable candidate should be able to work under his own initiative and be able to see through projects from concept to completion.

This position is available immediately and closing date for application is 15th September 2023.

QUALIFIED TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS PREFERRED. APPLY IN WRITING TO BCQS LIMITED, P. O. BOX 158, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. CONTACT SIMON TAYLOR ON EMAIL: STAYLOR@BCQS.COM

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

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

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

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

COURT REPORTER

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

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

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

38480

SUNNY FOODS BLUE HILLS

Blue Hills, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

Is in search of a:

WAREHOUSE SUPERVISOR

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• A warehouse supervisor is responsible for overseeing the operations and activities within a warehouse. Their job includes managing and supervising a team of warehouse workers, ensuring efficient and accurate receiving, storing, and shipping of goods, maintaining inventory and stock levels, and complying with health, safety, and security regulations. They are also responsible for monitoring and improving warehouse processes, implementing and optimizing systems and technologies, and coordinating with other departments such as procurement, production, and transportation to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, warehouse supervisors may be involved in training and evaluating warehouse staff, resolving any issues or conflicts that arise, and providing reports and updates to management.

• The ability to work in a wet and/or cold environment (Minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius)

• Able to lift 50 pounds

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Wages start at $10.00 hourly.

This Position is for first time work permit application.

EMAIL YOUR RESUME AT JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET.

INTERESTED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT

REGISTERED NURSE WANTED

Island Wellness Ltd is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Registered Nurse to join us. The ideal candidate will be:

Gentle and conscientious caregiver:

We prioritize providing a nurturing and supportive environment for our clients. We are seeking a nurse who demonstrates kindness, empathy, and a genuine commitment to patient care.

Skilled at placing IV catheters and phlebotomy:

Proficiency in IV catheter insertion and phlebotomy is essential for this role. We value nurses who possess strong technical skills and can confidently perform these procedures.

Outgoing and friendly personality:

We’re looking for a nurse who brings a friendly demeanor and fosters a positive environment for both patients and colleagues. The ability to establish rapport with patients,

HOUSEKEEPER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 245-9125

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

LANDSCAPER

Cut lawn using hand, power or riding mower and trim and edge around walks, flowerbeds, and walls. Planting flowers, grass, shrubs, and bushes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-1963

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-6351

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

ONE LABOURER

DUTIES: Cleaning up various materials, Building sheds, Clearing up debris. Maintaining my property, assisting in other task.

Salary: $8.per hourly

communicate effectively, and actively listen to concerns is crucial.

5 years experience in clinical practice:

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience working in a clinical setting, demonstrating a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills in nursing care.

Driver’s license and working vehicle:

As part of our mobile service delivery, a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle are required for this position.

Organized medical note taker: We are seeking a nurse who demonstrates meticulousness in note-taking and record-keeping.

We offer a competitive salary, additional training and education, great hours, and additional opportunities for bonuses. Island Wellness provides a supportive work environment that values professional growth and continuous learning.

If you possess these qualities and are interested in joining our team, please send along your resume CV and cover letter, to islandwellnessjobs@ gmail.com

Duties to include monitoring baby, keeping house clean and washing.

Must be willing to work 6 days a week

7:30am - 6:00pm.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 244-1361

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

SUNNY FOODS BLUE HILLS

Blue Hills, Providenciales

Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 1(649) 333-1674 38614

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-7146

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

IS IN SEARCH OF A SKILLED: REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

• Salary for this position is $8.00 per hour

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

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

DONALD

DETRA MORRIS

ELIE JOSAPHAT

EVANIA WILLIAMS

JSWC LTD

FRONT SHOP SUPERVISOR

• Supervisory Experience

• Knowledge in POS operation.

• Able to operate cash register if needed.

• Mathematics skills to handle money, give change and cash back at tills.

• Ability to be proactive and results driven leader.

• Ability to handle multiple demands with high attention to detail and accuracy.

• Calm under pressure.

• Excellent relation skills & positive attitude.

• Communication skills: good listening and clear instruction skills.

• Full availability- Flexible time. Able to work at weekend & holidays.

• Excellent written and verbal analytical skills.

Salary: $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-3761 EMAIL: PRICECLUB99@HOTMAIL.COM

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

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION

Ascendancy

notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of STANBROOK PRUDHOE, Third Floor Graceway House, Graceway Plaza, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands at 10:00am on October 6th 2023.

S&F WHOLESALE CASH & CARRY LTD.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands

Contact No: 1649-9462811

IS IN SEARCH OF A SKILLED:

REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

• Salary for this position is $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

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

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven and with 10 years experience as a Maintenance Technician or a similar role

• Solid knowledge of refrigeration, and mechanical systems

• Ability to diagnose and repair technical issues

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical manuals and diagrams

Location

TITLE BLOCK 60501, PARCEL 67, BLUE HILLS AND STAMERS RUN, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.

Comprises of House – a two bedroom, one bathroom to the north corner Comprising of Apartment Building – Four, one bedroom , one bathroom apartment

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

• Physical stamina and ability to work in different environments

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

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

• Salary for this position is $15.00 per hour.

Description

Units

There is also a storage building, a cistern, a covered work area and a concrete paved yard to the exterior area.

• This position is for work permit holder.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Title

Proprietor

Absolute

George Alexander Seymour

House-The approximate gross floor area of this Building is 1,021 sq. ft. with an additional 147 sq. ft. of access walkway areas

Conduct inspections and surveys of buildings. Repair and maintain refrigeration and mechanical systems for optimal functioning. Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. Diagnose and troubleshoot issues with equipment and systems. Perform regular preventive maintenance tasks. Keep accurate records of maintenance activities. Collaborate with other team members and communicate effectively. Follow company policies and guidelines.

Approximate Area

Apartment Building-The approximate gross floor area of the building is 1,863 sq. ft. with an additional 203 sq. ft. of front deck.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST FROM

ASCENDANCY TCI LTD

THIRD FLOOR GRACEWAY HOUSE GRACEWAY PLAZA PROVIDENCIALES TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

1-844-577-8742 EXTENSION 5100 OR 1-649-946-4300

EMAIL YOUR RESUME AT JOBSTCI@ALLIEDCARIBBEAN.NET. INTERESTED BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

TCI Ltd.

As Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

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

*RECREATIONS MANAGER

To be responsible for all aspects of the recreation adult/family/ youth program considering, special events, holidays, and group activities. Create new, unique and interesting recreation activities that incorporate the environment. The recreations manager ensures the effective and efficient supervision and execution of programs and Pool and Beach activities are consistent with the company standards and goals of providing excellent service and a memorable positive experience for all guests.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Oversee the smooth running of the recreations program on a day-to-day basis to achieve the highest level of Guest Satisfaction.

• Assist guests courteously and efficiently according to Wymara, Forbes and LQA standards.

• Ensure that all activities are performed in a safe environment, using safety techniques and Policies and Procedures.

• Monitor the success of the activities programs through the number of participants per scheduled event and through guest’s feedback.

• Make necessary adjustments to maintain top quality, fun-filled programs for hotel guests as well as groups.

• Schedule staff according to hotel occupancy forecast and planned events.

• Train and evaluate employees to better enhance their skills and knowledge while creating highly adaptive and versatile teams.

• To be aware of the budget and financial targets, and responsible for all assets.

• Keep daily inventory and manager stock levels, ordering as required to ensure guest needs are met.

• Inspect daily all motorized and non-motorized equipment including chairs, umbrellas, towels, and other items required to maintain guest service.

• Respond professionally to all guest requests, comments and concerns in a timely manner and report issues to Director of Resort and Villa Operations.

• Advise Chief Engineer of any upcoming events, maintenance requirements or damaged property.

• Build and maintain a strong and collaborative working relationship with the food & beverage team to ensure guest satisfaction.

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.

• Master’s degree in science and Technique of Physical and Sports Activities.

• Must have Boat captain license.

• Must be CPR Certified with Lifeguard training.

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

• 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.

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

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

Base Range: $25k - $35k per year

*ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Must be able to troubleshoot technical issues and design models for new products and equipment and maintaining and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment. Identifying maintenance risks on equipment. Must be able to run tests, diagnostics, and calibrations. Must have previous experience in engineering or in a similar role. Must be able to work with hand and power tools. Work on ladders and lift a minimum of 50 lbs. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents. Daily monitoring check operations with excellent attention to detail and organization skills. Strong customer service skills and time management with the ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment. To provide the guests and employees with a secure and comfortable environment by maintaining and ensuring that all health and safety protocols are operating in accordance with the Wymara standards. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents.

Compensation: $13.00 per hour.

*BEACH CLUB ATTENDANT

The Beach Club Attendant is responsible for accurately collecting and reconciling revenue and providing exceptional customer service for all beach club guests. The Beach Club Attendant will graciously meet club guest to facilitate their requests and have exceptional knowledge of recreations, motorized and nonmotorized equipment and activities, fitness center, Tennis and excellent food and beverage service experience. The Beach Club Attendant’s comprehensive scope of work creates a sense of personalized luxury service for the club guests while experiencing the facilities. The successful candidate must have Beach/lifeguard certificate, Level 1 Civic Prevention and Relief certification and refresh and First Response Team Certificate. Ability to handle a fast paced and high-volume work environment while maintaining luxury guest service. Compensation: $8.00 per hour.

AND SUPPORTING EXPERIENCE IN A PARTICULAR POSITION ALONG WITH YOUR RESUME OR C.V. TO HR@WYMARARESORTANDVILLAS.COM

Responsible

GENESIS AUTO MOBILE REPAIRS

TOP O’ THE COVE DELI & CATERING COMPANY

3 MECHANICS

JOB DESCRIPTION:

NEEDS rotation.

• Perform maintenance and repair on customer vehicles.

• Identify problems with vehicles using the diagnostic equipment.

• Explain automotive repairs and issues and provide great customer service.

• Plan repair procedures using chart manuals and experience.

• Test the functionality of parts and systems

• Perform basic auto care and maintenance tasks such as oil changes, fluid level checks, and tire

LINE CHEF/PREP WORKER (RENEWAL) DISHWASHER/ DELIVERY DRIVER

• Repair and replace brake pads, wheel bearings, sensors, and other parts.

• Perform routine maintenance and general mechanic work on vehicles.

• Prepared to get the additional certification as needed.

• Willingness to learn with hands-on training.

• Help keep repair shops clean and organized.

• Keep a professional appearance.

Pay set @ $15, 18, 20 per hour

Hours of Work Monday to Friday 7am - 5pm & Saturday 7am to 3pm

• We are looking for a line cook to prepare food to the exact chef’s specifications and to set up stations for menu.

• Person must be able to read & write English.

• Be willing and able to multi-task with a pleasant demeanor,

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs

• Must be open to working weekends and holidays.

• Hours are between 6am and 6pm Daily. Salary 22,300 to 29,600.00 per year

• Candidate must have valid driver’s license

• Verifiable References. Willing to work early morning shift hours.

• Must be able to lift 70lbs. Must have previous restaurant work experience.

• Salary Range for this position $22,800 to 29,500. Per annum

• This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

CONTACT: 649-946-4694

EASYWAY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

ERODE NOEL

T: 243-6240

ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT

TANEISHA J. PAUL

The Bight T: 348-5819

An opportunity exists for an experienced fully qualified certified public accountant or chartered accountant with a minimum of fifteen years post-graduation professional experience with international exposure to head a growing accounting advisory services practice. This individual is required to lead all aspects of the business including the ability to resolve complex accounting engagements, provide consultancy services to clients, lead training sessions and prepare detailed financial reports providing insightful business advice. They will report to the directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$70,000 to US$80,000 per annum plus benefits. This is a new position.

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

NEIL FRENCH

BAKER TILLY

P.O. BOX 357

18 THE VILLAGE AT GRACE BAY PROVIDENCIALES

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

OR

THE LABOUR COMMISSIONER

LABOUR OFFICE

BUTTERFIELD SQUARE PROVIDENCIALES

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

OR EMAIL YOUR PARTICULARS TO NEIL.FRENCH@BAKERTILLY.TC 38678

TRADESMAN $10.00 laying tile, blocks and carpenter, steel and plumber works.

PLAY SAT

T: 345-6544 Millennium Highway

ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN $10.00

Fixing phone, electronics and installing camera.

MERCIUS & HUGUETTE JOAZILE

T: 341- 1791

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00 hr

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my grandchildren.

DOMESTIC WORKER $8.00 hr.

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my son.

PASSION BEAUTY SALON

T: 333-1236

Alice & Alice, # 203 Airport Road

HAIRBRAIDER $8.00 hourly styling men and women hair, treating all types of hair and styling kids hair.

JA’SAM CONSTRUCTION

T: 341-8332 Blue Hills

LABOURER $8.00 hr

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site.

1058B Leeward Highway, Providenciales

GRADUATE TEACHERS

TO TEACH, BUSINESS STUDIES AND COMPUTER SCIENCE and is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Suitable candidates must have a Bachelor's Degree and teaching qualifications; five (5) years minimum experience teaching the British National Curriculum and Cambridge International Examination syllabi.

Salary starts at $3,500

D AND R ADMINISTRATIONS

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES

CV, letter of application and names of 2 referees to be sent in writing to:

LAURA

KUZENKO

British West Indies Collegiate PO Box 338, Providenciales or Email: lkuzenko@bwic.tc

2 CLEANERS

• Cleaning inside the shop (sweep & mop the floor, wipe glass doors & windows, cleaning toilets).

• Remove garbage at office, cashier and kitchen area.

• Able to work on weekends and holidays.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $8.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER GARDENER

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

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

Praddo is a design-built construction company that offers and produces high-end projects. We are looking for experienced professionals who are passionate and dedicated to making our clients’ concepts a reality.

LABOURERS CARPENTERS

CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISORS

• Assist with offloading of containers

• Assist with transporting of inventory from bon warehouse to wholesale warehouse

• Stacking of shelves with inventory and making sure shelves are clean at all times

• Ensure a clean and orderly warehouse

• Dispose of garbage whenever necessary

Salary: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: EMAIL: INFO@WINCECELLAR.TC

VACANCIES

BABYSITTER CARPENTER

LABOURER

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

Acting on behalf

VILLA DEL MAR

Grace Bay, provo Tel: 649-941-5160

$8.00 p/h

Perform daily clean.

JOSIE SHOP

Blue hills, provo Tel:649-245-4791

$8.00 p/h

Clean, stock facilities areas

STORE CLERK CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

HILL VIEW BOUTIQUE Airport Road, provo $8.00 p/h

Clean the store, Keep track of inventory.

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

Operate a variety of hand and power tools. $9.00 p/h

BELONGER CAN SEND RESUME.

FIRST TIME/ RENEWAL

CREATIVE ARTS COORDINATOR

EXPERIENCED Creative Arts Coordinator is required to assist with the programs at the Youth Centre. Must be available to work holidays and weekends.

Invites suitably qualified persons for the position of programs

• Excellent skills of working with youth

• Strong motivation to empower young people

REQUIREMENTS:

• University degree or Diploma in teaching, psychology, social work or similar field

energetic qualities ASSETS

Administration management or other office experience

38667

• At least three (3) years experience working in a related field

• Computer literate in Microsoft Office

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS 27TH SEPTEMBER 2023

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY

Duties:

Salary $8.00 must be available week, weekends and holidays. Salary $10.00 shifts an hour that include holidays and weekends. Salary $10.00. Must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience and references. Salary $8.00 POTTS OF GOLD PARLOR, 1 OLD AIRPORT ROAD OR EMAIL US AT ELITETCI@GMAIL.COM CONTACT: 649-332-8985 C & S PROFESSIONAL ORETA DORINE BEEN 38698 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 hourly DOMESTIC WORKER Acting on behalf of Blue Hills, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking to employ a CONTACT: 342-5631 NATASHA’S CONSULTANCY EDLINE PUBIEN 38701 Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $8.00 Hourly LABOURER Acting on behalf of Kew Town Is seeking to employ a CONTACT: 243-1368 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY MARGUERITE ALTIDOR CONTACT: 345-4307 38670 BELONGERS ARE ASKED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. THIS IS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

Strong written, verbal and communication skills SALARY $1,800 p/m BARMAID/ BARTENDERS SURVEILLANCE OFFICER ROUTE ATTENDANT/ FLOOR ATTENDANT KITCHEN STAFF HELPERS 38681

38677

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

DUTIES: To assist skilled workers, Maintain all work areas.

$8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 345-4520

CONTACT: 241-5759

VACANCIES

GARDENERS (2)

LABOURER

Five

ACTING ON BEHALF OF DANNY BUOY’S/SKULL ROCK/CABANA BAR #353 GRACE BAY ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.50 Hourly

Preparing the workstation. Keeping the kitchen clean.

DISHWASHER - $8.50 Hourly

Washing dishes.

LABOURER - $8.50 Hourly

Cleaning.

COOK - $8.50 Hourly

Setting up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

WAITRESS - $8.50 Hourly

Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment.

BEACH ATTENDANT

$8.50 Hourly

BAKER - $8.50 Hourly

Measure and mix raw ingredients, bake and decorate items, and ensure that all raw and finished goods adhere to quality and food safety standards.

PAINTER - $8.00 hourly

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to various structural surfaces.

CARPENTER - $8.00 hourly

Follow blueprints and building plans. Install structures and fixtures.

BARTENDER - $8.00 hourly

Uphold customer service

Maintain Bar Mix and serve drinks

ONLY

CONTACT: 342-2884

To Fix and repair customers vehicles roadworthiness status.

$10.00 per hour

CONTACT: 242-1076

Set up beach chairs and umbrellas for cruise ship passengers, to offer and sell drinks to customers.

VACANCIES

LABOURER LABOURER

D & B TILE

232-6435

South Dock Road

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site. $9.00 hr.

BREEZE CONSTRUCTION

241-0362

Front Road, Blue Hills

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site. $9.00 hr.

38785

FIDELITY CONSTRUCTION

Build and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form structures. Cut, position, and bolt down steel bars.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-1792

CLEANER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 1-649-243-4466

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

KECHIE

$9.00 hourly

Follow blueprints. Install structures and fixtures. Measure, cut, or shape wood and other materials.

$2,000 monthly

STEELMAN CARPENTER PAINTER

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4142

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY / RENEWAL

CONSTRUCTION HELPER

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site.

$8.00 Hourly

38769

Ensuring a

CONTACT: 246-2816

SHA CONSTRUCTION, MAID TO CLEAN, SIESTA

CARPENTERS, WELDERS, MASONS, PLUMBERS, TILE LAYERS, LABOURERS, FABRIC, PAINTERS, TRADEMAN, STEELMAN, CARPET LAYER, CLEANERS, COOK, MAINTENANCE WORKER, STONE FABRICATORS.

Must be able to read and understand building drawings; layout and erect brick wall, concrete columns, beams, support concrete staircases; concrete floor rending, layout and build driveways, deck floors, swimming pool, cistern, competent with masonry tool and working knowledge of imperial and metric measurement. Perform maintenance and minors repairs (replacing broken switches, fixing doors handles, minor leaks, cut and polish rocks, install, measure, cut and shape.

Salaries started @$8-$13 per hr. Work 5-6 days a week.

CONTACT: 247-4255 38761

HARD ROCK CONSTRUCTION

#128 Millennium Highway, Blue Hills, Tel: 244-3939

Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

$9.00 Hourly.

Renewal

PAULA ELLIOTT

Bronze Lane, Long Bay Tel: 341-4752

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework. $8.00 hourly

CARPENTER BABYSITTER LABOURER

TEN & SANCHEZ LTD

Bronze Lane, Long Bay, Tel: 341-4752

Cleaning up construction site, removing debris etc. $8.50 hourly

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

VACANCIES

4T CONTRACTING (232-3265)

Wheeland, Providenciales

General cleaning, cleaning after projects, other menial task. Salary: $8 hourly

FLEURIDOR MOTORS LTD (241-7341)

59 South Dock, Providenciales

Repairs & replace faulty parts, diagnostic etc. $8-9 hourly

38788

MODERN DAY CONSTRUCTION (241-4108) 9 Moonstone Road, Providenciales

Install doors, wooden floor etc. Salaries: $9-$12 hourly

QUALITY SERVICES

DELIVERY (346-0002)

Blue Hills, Providenciales

Repairs and small construction, plumbing etc. $8-9 hourly

38783

• Must have at least 3-5 years of being a Head Chef in a 5star establishment

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in running a team of 5-10 employees

• Experience in Developing Menus, food and labor cost,

Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

Salary: $9 hourly

CONTACT: 231-6920

•

• Health & Hygiene Certification an asset

• Starting Salary $2,000$2,600 per month based on qualifications and experience

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS, 2018

An Application, REGISTERED PR 16907, by ER Development Ltd for A TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT. The proposed townhouse development contemplates ten (4) four-bedroom standard units, swimming pools, garbage enclosure. The townhouse units are proposed 3-4 storeys typologies, has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on Block & Parcel 60906/162 which is 1.32 acres of land located at Bonaventure Cres (Grace Bay), Providenciales.

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

Dated: September 15, 2023

Quantity Surveyor

We are seeking a skilled, reliable, efficient quantity surveyor to join our growing organization. In this position, you will estimate the costs of construction projects, working with contractors, builders, and architects.

QUANTITY SURVEYOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review architectural plans and prepare quantity needs

• Estimate the quantity and costs of materials

• Prepare contracts and documents

• Set budgets for payments, inventory needs, and materials

• Track changes in plans or constructions; update budgets

• Negotiate with contractors and subcontractors

• Act as a liaison between clients and site managers/engineers

• Identify potential financial or construction risks.

• Advise clients on improvements, strategies, and/or estimated costs

• Prepare payments for contractors and subcontractors

• Document progress, materials, and reports on project

• Utilize software to calculate, record, and track inventory and estimates, proficiency in plan swift, Procore and Blue beam is essential.

QUANTITY SURVEYOR REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying

• 5-10 years of quantity surveying experience, financial experience, and construction experience

• Proficient in computer skills and Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft projects

• Able to analyze financial records and apply data to improved results

• Strong aptitude for numbers, spreadsheets, and financial reports

• Experienced at compiling and following strict budgets; strong estimating and financial analysis skills

• In-depth understanding of construction, materials, pricing, and industry

• Able to analyze problems and strategize for better solutions

Salary: $1600/weekly

Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to Labour Board. This position is currently being held by a Work Permit Holder.

Contact: NORSTAR GROUP LTD.

2C, COURTYARD PLAZA, PROVIDENCIALES PHONE:(649) 941-3600

ASSISTANT RIDING INSTRUCTOR

• Min 5 years teaching experience, able to teach novice and advance riders in dressage and jumping.

• Train and medicate horses.

• Excellent with kids and adults

Salary: $2,200 monthly

CONTACT: 441-8687

METAL ROOFER

Enhance our range of services. Min. 5 years’ experience in standing seam and gutter installation.

Salary base on experience, 6 days per week

CONTACT: 232-7177

RECEIVING CLERK

Managing paperwork when container shipment arrives, unload containers, ensures that all damaged goods are reported, keep records and help with inventory control, assist with sales in store

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-231-1550

Belongers only apply Renewal

8756

WELDER

NATURE OF POSITION;

• Follow welding procedure specifications when welding

• Efficiently produce quality welds

• Perform or assist with fit-up and preparation of welds

• Perform or assist with post weld cleanup, inspection, and repair

• Communicate regularly with the Field Foreman with regard to issues and concerns on the job site

• Comply with all HMT safety policies and programs

• Conduct repairs aiming for maximum reliability

• Troubleshoot reported problems and resolve them in a timely manner

• Perform thorough maintenance on machinery, equipment and systems

• Clean and apply lubricants to machinery components

• Replenish fluids and components of engines and machinery

Must possess suitable welder background (Degree preffered) as well of experience with in all aspects of automotive movil services/repaired industry.

Salary: With experience and qualifications salary range $15-$30 per hour. Must have own tools.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN

NATURE OF POSITION:

• Driving to the job site.

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

• Diagnosing faults using computerized testing equipment.

• Adjusting equipment and replacing faulty parts.

• Repairing damaged equipment parts.

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

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

• Performing major repair work when necessary.

• Consulting with other mechanics on smaller jobs.

• Reporting damaged or faulty equipment to management. Must possess suitable mechanic background (Degree preferred) as well of experience with in all aspects of automotive movil services/ repaired industry. Salary: With experience and qualifications salary range $15-$30 per hour. Must have own tools

Drop off resumes/cv at the office located on P.O Box 1125 South Dock Rd. or at Labour Department in Providenciales or email: express.equipment@hotmail.com

Current position is being held by a work permit holder Belongers only need apply.

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

Watch over husband and man the gate.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 347-2489

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

WATERPLAY

MECHANIC

Keeps equipment available for use by inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.

Salary: $11.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 231-5417

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning

CONTACT: 649-246-1871

TEACHER

Creating lesson plans and teaching them, individually, or in small groups; track students’ progress and present the information to parents; create tests; create and reinforce

CONTACT: 342-3463

DOMESTIC WORKER

C & S PROFESSIONAL NATHAN’S VARIETY STORE

CASHIER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-4347

CONTACT: 241-5922 BELONGERS

KITCHEN MANAGER

We are looking for a Kitchen Manager to join our team and prepare delicious meals for our customers.

Chef responsibilities include executing recipes, setting up menus and preparing high-quality dishes. You should be able to delegate tasks to kitchen staff to ensure meals are prepared in a timely manner. Also, you should be familiar with sanitation regulations.

Ultimately, you’ll prepare and deliver a complete menu that delights our guests. To ensure success in your role as kitchen manager you should be an excellent leader with great organizational skills and impeccable time management.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up the kitchen with cooking utensils and equipment, like knives, pans and kitchen scales

• Study each recipe and gather all necessary ingredients

• Cook food in a timely manner

• Delegate tasks to kitchen staff

• Inform wait staff about daily specials

• Ensure appealing plate presentation

• Supervise Cooks and assist as needed

• Slightly modify recipes to meet customers’ needs and requests (e.g. reduce salt, remove dairy)

• Monitor food stock and place orders

• Check freshness of food and discard out-of-date items

• Do weekly orders

• Experiment with recipes and suggest new ingredients

• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations within the kitchen area

The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is seeking for dependable, disciplined, self-driven, and efficient candidates for the positions listed below.

HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Allocate work duties to Team Members and supervise contractors.

• Perform routine inspections of all check out rooms and spot checks of all occupied rooms.

• Schedule and supervise deep cleaning and any other projects.

• Manage and train Room Attendants, Housemen, Laundry Attendant, Public Area Attendants and Linen Room

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in a Housekeeping supervisory role and has a successful track record of managing a team.

• Strong organizational, analytic skills and has an effective communications skill.

• Proficiency, preferred with computer programs, including Microsoft Office –Word, Excel and Outlook

Base salary range: $10.00 - $13.00/ hour to commensurate with qualification & experience.

Benefits: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals. The above position is currently held by a Work Permit Card Holder.

FRONT DESK AGENT

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure and provide flawless, upscale, professional and high-class guest service experiences.

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

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

• Be proactive in the greeting of guests in a warm and friendly manner and provide excellent guest service, including Owners & VIPs.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent vocational training

• Minimum of 3-year experience in a Front Office/general office role (Preferred)

• Hospitality industry experience preferred, and the ideal candidate will also have knowledge of Opera software.

Base salary range: $10.00 - $13.00/ hour to commensurate with qualification & experience.

Benefits: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals. The above position is currently held by a Work Permit Card Holder.

QUALIFIED CANDIDATES CAN COMPLETE AN APPLICATION FORM IN PERSON AT THE SOMERSET ON GRACE BAY OR SUBMIT A CV BY E-MAIL TO TWILLIAMS@THESOMERSET. COM. THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS OCTOBER 7TH, 2023.

Science & Technology

Japan population: One in 10 people now aged 80 or older

For the first time ever, more than one in 10 people in Japan are now aged 80 or older.

National data also shows 29.1% of the 125 million population is aged 65 or older- a record.

Japan has one of the lowest birth-rates in the world and has long struggled with how to provide for its ageing population.

It has the world’s oldest population, measured by the proportion of people aged 65 or up, the United Nations says.

That proportion stands at 24.5% in Italy and 23.6% in Finland, which rank second

CHRISTOPHER GARRY PRATT

and third respectively.

In Japan, those aged over 65 are expected to account for 34.8% of the population by 2040, according to the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research.

The country’s elderly employment rate is among the highest across major economies - workers aged 65 or more make up more than 13% of the national workforce.

But this has done little to relieve the burden on the country’s social security spending.

Japan has approved a record budget for the next

WILLIAM K. MCCOLLUM

fiscal year, in part due to rising social security costs.

Efforts to boost its birth rates have also met with little success amid the growing cost of living, and notoriously long working hours.

Birth rates are slowing in many countries, including Japan’s neighbours, but the problem is particularly acute in Japan.

The country was estimated to have had fewer than 800,000 babies born last year - the lowest number since records began in the 19th century.

In the 1970s, that figure was more than two million.

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Salary: $8.00 hourly

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in January that his country is on the brink of not being able to function as a society because of its declining birth rate.

However authorities remain hesitant about accepting migrant workers as a solution to falling fertility.

Other countries in Asia are facing similar demographic challenges.

Last year, China’s population fell for the first time since 1961, while South Korea has reported the lowest fertility rate in the world. (BBC)

MECHANIC

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BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

More than one in 10 people in the world’s oldest country have crossed the 80-year-old mark for the first time

Science & Technology

Morning workouts are linked to better weight management, study finds

Need a reason to rise and shine and then workout? A new study finds exercising in the morning appears to show more benefits for keeping the pounds off than working out during other times of the day.

Although the question of optimal exercise timing hasn’t yet been solved, the new evidence suggests that working out between 7–9 a.m. is most effective for obesity.

In an observational study, researchers found that people who exercised in the morning had lower BMI and waist circumference, even when they did less exercise overall than people who worked out in the afternoon and evening.

The authors’ conclusion: morning exercise could be an important factor in preventing obesity and having a “positive impact” on people who might otherwise be sedentary during the rest of the day.

While most people think of things like frequency, duration, and intensity of exercise when they think of weight loss, new research, published September 4 in the medical journal ObesityTrusted Source argues that considering when you work out is also important.

“It is well known that exercise is essential for successful weight management,” lead study author Dr. Tongyu Ma, a research assistant professor at Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, NH, told Healthline.

“However, the best timing is less known. Our study suggests that the early morning is the optimal time of day to exercise for weight management.”

BENEFITS OF MORNING EXERCISE MAY INCLUDE

New evidence suggests that working out between 7–9 a.m. is most effective for obesity

LOWER BMI

Professor Ma and his team’s research examined 5,285 individuals who participated in the Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2003 and 2006. NHANES is a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is intended to serve as representative data for the population of the United States.

Using self-reported information for things like age, sex, and diet, as well as data from an accelerometer, a device worn on the hip that’s used to track activity, Ma wanted to see if there was any correlation between when individuals exercised and two key indicators of obesity: BMI and waist circumference.

Individuals were placed into three groups based on when they exercised during the day: morning, afternoon, and evening.

Researchers found that individuals who worked out in the morning had a lower average BMI (27.4) compared to those who worked out in the afternoon (28.4) and evening (28.2).

Waist circumference showed a

similar association; the morning exercise group’s average waist was 95.9 centimeters (37.7 inches,) compared to 97.9 (38.5 inches) for the afternoon group, and 97.3 (38.3 inches) for the evening group. Moreover, using the above indicators, researchers found a downward linear trend between minutes of exercise per week and obesity — meaning the more exercise they did per week — the lower the average BMI. A weaker trend was observed in the afternoon, midday or evening groups.

Interestingly, the morning workout group exercised less and engaged in more sedentary time than the other groups but maintained healthier BMI and waist size.

And the trend for the morning workout group continued even after controlling for potentially confounding factors like age, sex, ethnicity, tobacco use, and diet.

“The evidence implies that doing the right thing at the right time could be important for maintaining a healthy metabolism and a healthy body weight,” the study says.

Researchers note more study is needed and that there are several caveats for this study

Since it is a cross-sectional observational study, researchers can only observe trends. They can’t know for certain the cause of that trend.

Dr Michael Fredericson, director of the PM&R Sports Medicine and co-director of the Stanford Center on Longevity at the Stanford University School of Medicine, said the way the study was conducted it was unclear if the people who exercised in the morning were “systematically different from those who exercise at other times in ways not measured in this study.”

“For example, people who exercise regularly in the morning could have more predictable schedules, such as being less likely to be shift workers or less likely to have caregiving responsibilities that impede morning exercise,” Fredericson said.

MORNING EXERCISE IMPACTS CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS AND WEIGHT LOSS

The researchers don’t claim to fully understand the mechanism or reason why exercising in the morning appears to be more effective for obesity than working out at other times of the day.

The key to that question likely has to do with circadian rhythms, your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle that encompasses a myriad of hormonal and other biological processes.

“Many physiological processes display circadian rhythms, including the metabolisms that are closely associated with obesity,”

said Ma. “There is general evidence that timing of exercise is important. However, more studies are needed to explicitly explain the significance of circadian oscillations regarding weight and weight loss,” he said.

Fredericson said the new study bolsters past research on the benefits of a morning workout.

“Studies have shown that morning exercise can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and decrease anxiety,” Fredericson said.

“Additionally, working out in the morning helps to improve cognitive function by stimulating brain activity. It enhances alertness and concentration, increasing productivity throughout your day. Morning exercise, especially outdoors, also gives us morning light, which is critical to regulating our circadian rhythms.

Hormones linked with weight loss and obesity, such as insulin and cortisol, are closely tied to circadian rhythms.

The presence and amount of these hormones oscillate as part of these rhythms and can affect things like sleepiness, hunger, fat burning (lipolysis), and fat storage (lipogenesis). Therefore, just like how the timing of when you eat can affect weight gain, so too can the timing of your exercise appear to affect weight loss.

“Research suggests that an eating schedule misaligned with one’s circadian rhythm can increase a person’s risk of becoming obese or developing metabolic problems like insulin resistance,” Fredericson said. “Habits like eating late at night or skipping breakfast are considered misaligned eating.”

If you’re eating healthier meals these days, congratulations — but what do you snack on? By choosing ultraprocessed and sugary snacks, 1 in 4 of us may be undoing all the benefits of healthy eating, according to a new study.

“Considering 95% of us snack, and that nearly a quarter of our calories come from snacks, swapping unhealthy snacks such as cookies, crisps and cakes to healthy snacks like fruit and nuts

is a really simple way to improve your health,” said senior author Sarah Berry, a researcher at King’s College London, in a statement.

(For you Americans, crisps are chips.)

More than 90% of adults in the United States report eating one or more snacks on any given day. In the United Kingdom, where the study was done, some 47% of participants

A quarter of people who eat healthy meals blow it on snacks, study says

Science & Technology

Scientists discover how brain cells die in Alzheimer’s

Scientists in the UK and Belgium think they have figured out how brain cells die in Alzheimer’s disease.

It has been a mystery and a source of scientific debate for decades.

But the team, writing in the journal Science, connect the abnormal proteins that build up in the brain with “necroptosis” - a form of cellular suicide.

The findings have been described as “cool” and “exciting”, as they give new ideas for treating the disease.

LONG-AWAITED CLUES

It is the loss of brain cells, called neurons, that lead to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, including memory loss.

And if you look inside the brains of people with the disease you’d see the build-up of abnormal proteins called amyloid and tau.

But scientists have not been able to join the dots between these key traits of the disease.

This is what the researchersat the UK’s Dementia Research Institute at University College London and KU Leuven in Belgium - now think is happening.

Researchers believe new findings about a form of cellular suicide gives new ideas for treating Alzheimer’s

They say abnormal amyloid starts to build up in the spaces between neurons, leading to brain inflammation, which the neurons do not like. This starts to change their internal chemistry.

Tangles of tau appear and the brain cells start producing a specific molecule (it’s called MEG3) that triggers death by necroptosis. Necroptosis is one of the methods our bodies normally use to purge unwanted cells as fresh ones are made.

The brain cells survived when the team were able to block MEG3.

“This is a very important and interesting finding,” researcher Prof Bart De Strooper, from the UK’s Dementia Research Institute, told the BBC.

“For the first time we get a clue to how and why neurons die in Alzheimer’s disease. There’s been a lot of speculation for 30-40 years, but nobody has been able to pinpoint the mechanisms.

“It really provides strong

evidence it’s this specific suicide pathway.”

The answers came from experiments where human brain cells were transplanted into the brains of genetically modified mice. The animals were programmed to produce large quantities of abnormal amyloid.

There has been recent success in developing drugs that strip amyloid out of the brain and they mark the first treatments to slow the destruction of brain cells.

Prof De Strooper says the discovery that blocking the MEG3 molecule can hold off brain cell death could lead to a “whole new line of drugs development”.

However, this will take years of research.

Prof Tara Spires-Jones, from the University of Edinburgh and the president of the British Neuroscience Association, told me “that is a cool paper”.

She said it “addresses one of the fundamental gaps in Alzheimer’s research… these are fascinating results and will be important for the field moving forward.”

However, she stressed that “many steps are needed” before knowing whether it could be harnessed as an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s.

Dr Susan Kohlhaas, from Alzheimer’s Research UK, said the findings were “exciting” but still at an early stage.

“This discovery is important because it points to new mechanisms of cell death in Alzheimer’s disease that we didn’t previously understand and could pave the way for new treatments to slow, or even stop disease progression in the future.” (BBC)

Rare cache of pink diamonds formed when a supercontinent broke apart, study says

Pink diamonds are extremely rare and coveted — a now-closed mine in Australia has been the source of 90% of the coloured gemstones. Polished pink specimens of the highest grade can sell for tens of millions of dollars. But a discovery made in the same area may help reveal new deposits of the jewels, researchers say.

Scientists studying Western Australia’s Argyle diamond deposit, where the mine was located, said they now have a better understanding of the geological conditions necessary for pink diamonds and other colour varieties to form, according to a study published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications.

Using lasers to analyse minerals and rocks extracted from the Argyle deposit, the researchers found that the pink diamond-rich site formed during the breakup of an ancient supercontinent, called Nuna, about 1.3 billion years ago.

“While the continent that would become Australia didn’t break up, the area where Argyle is situated was stretched, including along the scar, which created gaps in the Earth’s crust for magma to shoot up through to the surface,

bringing with it pink diamonds,” said lead study author Dr. Hugo Olierook, a research fellow at Curtin University’s John de Laeter Centre in Perth, Australia, in a news release.

UNEARTHING PINK DIAMONDS

Most diamond deposits are found in the middle of ancient continents — within volcanic rocks that have rapidly transported diamonds from deep inside Earth’s interior to the surface.

However, for diamonds to turn pink or red, they must be subjected to intense forces from colliding tectonic plates, which twist and bend their crystal lattices. Most brown diamonds are also formed in this manner.

At Argyle, this process occurred around 1.8 billion years ago when Western Australia and Northern Australia collided, turning the once-colourless diamonds pink hundreds of miles below Earth’s crust.

But how did these coloured

diamonds make their way toward the surface? The research team found that the Argyle deposits were 1.3 billion years old, from a time when an ancient supercontinent, known as Nuna, was breaking up into fragments.

Supercontinents, which form when several continents come together to form a single landmass, have emerged several times in Earth’s geological history.

“By using laser beams smaller than the width of a human hair on rocks supplied by Rio Tinto (the

company that owned the mine), we found Argyle to be 1.3 billion years old, which is 100 million years older than previously thought, meaning it would likely have formed as a result of an ancient supercontinent breaking apart,” Olierook said.

The authors proposed that the breakup of Nuna may have reopened the old juncture that the collided continents left behind, allowing diamond-bearing rocks to travel through this region to form the large diamond deposit.

This chain of events, according to the study, suggested that the junctures of ancient continents may be important for finding pink diamonds — and may guide exploration for other deposits.

“Most diamond deposits have been found in the middle of ancient continents because their host volcanoes tend to be exposed at the surface for explorers to find,” Olierook said.

“Argyle is at the suture of two of these ancient continents, and these edges are often covered by sand and soil, leaving the possibility that similar pink diamond-bearing volcanoes still sit undiscovered, including in Australia.” (CNN)

Polished coloured diamonds from the Argyle diamond deposit

Science & Technology

Meditate to beat stress blood pressure, say guidelines

People should try to meditate for around 45 minutes every day to cut stress-related high blood pressure, say new guidelines.

Other tips from the International Society of Hypertension include taking time out to listen to music, doing yoga and practicing mindfulness.

Established medical advicequit smoking and cut down on salt - still stands.

But experts say newer “body and mind” lifestyle goals can be recommended.

According to the position paper which is published in the Journal of Hypertension, there is enough scientific evidence for some less conventional approaches.

One of the authors, UK blood pressure expert Prof Bryan Williams, said in an exclusive interview with the BBC: “It all sounds like it is a bit soft and fluffy and not as dynamic, for example, as taking drugs but these things make such an important contribution to reducing the effects of stress on the cardiovascular system and the evidence is accumulating.

“There’s so much people can do for themselves. All of us need to take a step back and say, actually, I should be able to find half an hour in my day to have a little bit of time to myself and decompress and just relax - whether it’s listening to music, going for a walk or going to the gym and doing some exercise.”

High blood pressure is a leading cause of premature death.

It puts strain on the heart and blood vessels which, in the long term, can lead to heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

More than a billion people or one in four adults worldwide has

People who meditate 45 minutes per day can cut their stress-related blood pressure

high blood pressure.

The panel of experts from 18 countries advise: Try daily stress-busting strategies like meditation, deep breathing, yoga and mindfulness

Consider practising gratitude by focusing on positive things you can be thankful for, and doing acts of kindness to gain a sense of wellbeing

Chill out to some calming music for at least 25 minutes, three times a week

Taking your mind off the daily grind has an important and cumulative stress-busting effect on your mind and heart, says Prof Williams.

Other good habits are staying physically active and getting enough sleep - you might want to use fitness gadgets and apps to track your steps, sleep and progress, the advice says.

Prof Williams, a specialist at University College London, said:

“It’s not just the duration of sleep but it’s also the quality of sleep. And the evidence suggests that most people should be trying to achieve seven hours of good quality sleep to try and reduce the effects of the stress of not sleeping and not decompressing.”

TIKTOK TRENDS

He said the guidelines were designed to emphasise is a more holistic approach to controlling blood pressure.

“What we have tried to do is look at all of the evidence for all of the different things that quite often pop up on social media and try and work out how much of it has a scientific basis and how much of it is a sort of fad.”

The emerging evidence suggests:

Eating fish or taking an Omega-3 fish oil supplement may be helpful

Gut health is important too - and taking probiotics and eating plenty of fibre is a good idea

Drinking some tea and coffee is fine, but consuming lots of energy drinks containing large amounts of caffeine is not recommended

Be careful with liquorice teathis can raise blood pressure

Beetroot and pomegranate juices may have the opposite effect and help lower blood pressure, perhaps because they contain nitrate compounds - doctors use nitrate in medications to dilate, relax or widen blood vessels

Another tip, if you want to exercise outdoors, do a park run or stroll away from busy roadsbecause air pollution is bad for the heart and lungs.

Prof Williams said: “Data is coming from a number of countries

now showing that air pollution has an effect on cardiovascular function. It probably, based on the evidence, is contributing to the increased prevalence - if you like, the increased commonality - of risk factors for heart disease around the world.”

Lifestyle changes should be the first-line approach to treating and preventing high blood pressure, but doctors can add in pills if needed, the guidance, endorsed by European Society of Hypertension, says.

Dr Pauline Swift from Blood Pressure UK said one of the quickest ways to lower blood pressure, especially if you have high blood pressure, is to limit how much salt you consume. Even if you are not adding it to your meals, processed food can contain a lot.

“If you eat too much salt, it causes extra water to be stored in your body, which raises your blood pressure.

“Eating more fruit and vegetables and regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming or dancing, also lowers blood pressure by reducing blood vessel stiffness so blood can flow more easily.”

Jo Whitmore, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation welcomed the recommendations calling them “an authoritative breakdown” of how our lifestyles can influence our blood pressure.

“Understanding our individual risk factors and how to manage them is key to maintaining a healthy blood pressure and this position paper provides detailed recommendations on how that can be achieved.” (BBC)

A quarter of people who eat healthy meals blow it on snacks ...

CONTINUED  56

ate two snacks a day and 29% of people snacked even more often.

Over 25% of the study participants reported eating healthy main meals and snacking on highly processed food and sugary treats that can increase hunger, the study found.

“We don’t go out into the weather and simply ‘hope’ it will be good; we protect ourselves against it, in all the right ways. A coat when it’s cold; an umbrella when it rains,” said Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and

nutrition, in an email. He was not involved in the study.

“We should think of the food environment in just the same way, and not go out into a ‘climate’ of junk food and hope to eat well,” said Katz, the president and founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, a global coalition of experts dedicated to evidence-based lifestyle medicine. He has published research on how to use food as preventive medicine.

SNACK CHOICE AND TIMING

The study, published Thursday

in the European Journal of Nutrition, analysed the snacking habits of 854 people participating in the Zoe Predict study, a collaboration between Tufts University and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston and nutrition researchers in the United Kingdom, Spain and Sweden.

Eating poor choices for snacks was “linked with higher BMI (body mass index), higher visceral fat mass and higher postprandial — the period after eating a meal — triglycerides concentrations, all of which are associated with metabolic disease

such as stroke, cardiovascular disease and obesity,” according to a study statement.

When the snacks were eaten was also important. Snacking after 9 p.m. was associated with eating calorie-dense foods high in fat and sugar, the study found. People who snacked late had worse blood markers that might lead to chronic disease than those who snacked earlier in the day.

Not all snacking is unhealthy, the study said. Participants who frequently ate nuts, fresh fruit and other high-quality snacks were more likely to have a healthy weight compared with

non-snackers or those who chose unhealthy foods.

“My practice for decades has been to travel with convenient, nutritious foods I like — so if I get hungry on the go, or at the office, it is not someone I don’t know who chooses my snack — it is me,” Katz said.

“Get an insulated snack pack; have some convenient, nutritious foods you like handy at home — nuts, fresh fruit, dried fruit, hummus and the like — and take them with you so that eating well on the go is always under your control, and at your fingertips,” he added. (CNN)

Sports International

Bianca Williams search: Met Police officers deny gross misconduct

Five Metropolitan Police officers have denied gross misconduct at a disciplinary hearing over the stop and search of athlete Bianca Williams.

The British sprinter and her partner Ricardo dos Santos were stopped in their car in west London in July 2020.

They were handcuffed, searched for weapons and drugs and separated from their three-monthold son, but nothing was found and no arrests were made.

The pair have publicly accused the force of racism over the incident.

Acting Sgt Rachel Simpson and PCs Allan Casey, Jonathan Clapham, Michael Bond and Sam Franks all face allegations that they breached police standards regarding equality and diversity during the stop and search.

Appearing in person at the hearing in central London, they told the panel they believed their behaviour did not amount to gross misconduct.

Acting Sgt Simpson and PCs Clapham, Bond and Franks are accused of breaching standards over use of force and respect.

PCs Casey, Clapham, Bond and Franks also face allegations over the accuracy of their account of the stop.

The hearing is due to last until 27 October when an independent panel will determine whether to uphold the allegations.

Gross misconduct is the highest level of disciplinary charge a police officer can face.

If found guilty, a police officer can face disciplinary action including a written warning, a

Vuelta a Espana: Sepp Kuss wins 2023 race as Kaden Groves claims final stage

Sepp Kuss won the Vuelta a Espana as Kaden Groves claimed a dramatic final stage in Madrid.

Kuss becomes the first American to win a Grand Tour since Chris Horner triumphed in the same race 10 years ago.

It was the Australian’s third stage win. He was in a six-man breakaway and made the decisive move with 37km to go of a 100km stage which consisted of 20 laps around the Spanish capital.

classification and linked arms as they finished to secure a clean sweep of this season’s Grand Tours, becoming the first team to do so.

demotion or dismissal from the force altogether.

Mr dos Santos alleged he was dragged out of his car by an officer with a raised baton, handcuffed, and told that the stop-and-search was being conducted because he smelled of cannabis.

Video footage of what happened was widely shared on social media.

The Met Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after footage was posted online by the couple’s trainer, former Olympic champion sprinter Linford Christie.

After the referral, then-Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick told LBC radio that “any officer worth their salt would have stopped that car” and that she did not “personally accept” the video footage “reveals racism”.

Ms Williams decried Dame Cressida’s comments as “public efforts to discredit and undermine our complaints and to trivialise the experiences of black people in the UK and how we are policed”.

In January, there was further public scrutiny when Trisha Napier, who investigated the accused officers, told the BBC that her investigation had been “watered down”.

Ms Napier, who resigned in November 2020, said was taking the watchdog to an employment tribunal. The IOPC denied her allegations.

Met Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Bas Javid previously apologised for the “distress that this incident clearly caused Ms Williams and Mr Dos Santos”. (BBC)

His Jumba-Visma team dominated the podium as Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard finished second with Giro d’Italia winner Primoz Roglic third.

Groves sprinted to the final stage win, just about holding off the peloton.

The peloton bore down on the breakaway in the final metres but Groves, who claimed the overall sprinter’s jersey, crossed the line ahead of Italy’s Filippo Ganna and Nico Denz of Germany.

Kuss and his team-mates kept out of trouble on what was a processional stage for the general

“It’s incredible,” Kuss told Eurosport. “I think today was the stage I suffered most in the whole race so now I’m just glad it’s over. “It’s life-changing for sure but I’ll still be me. I’ll look back on this experience with a lot of fond memories. It’s all just still sinking in really. It will take quite some time.” (BBC)

Messi forced off with ‘old injury’ for Inter Miami as US Open Cup final looms

Lionel Messi was forced off after 37 minutes on his return to action for Inter Miami - but his team-mates sealed a 4-0 win over Toronto FC.

The Argentine, absent for Miami’s 5-2 defeat by Atlanta on Saturday because of fatigue, could miss next week’s US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo. Manager Gerardo Martino said the 36-year-old is carrying an “old injury”.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was not used by Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni against Bolivia last week.

Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba also suffered an injury against Toronto and Martino said both players would definitely miss Sunday’s game against Orlando City.

“There is no chance they will be there on Sunday,” said Martino.

“I know we have a final to play [on Wednesday] but they won’t go near the pitch if they can’t play.”

Miami have not lost any of the 11 matches in which Messi has featured since he joined the MLS

club in July, after leaving French champions Paris St-Germain at the end of the 2022-23 season.

The score was level at 0-0 when captain Messi left the field against Toronto, but his replacement, Robert Taylor, scored twice and Facundo Farias and Benjamin Cremaschi also found the net in a comfortable victory.

“The scans [Messi] had with the national team, they didn’t show any injury. We still saved him to be

safe,” Martino said.

“We don’t think he has a muscular injury. That’s also from a conversation I just had with him.

“But we have to continue being careful. We’ll look at it the next few days.”

Argentina manager Scaloni said Messi did not feature for his country last week because he “was not ready to play” and the World Cup winner “did not feel comfortable”. (BBC)

Bianca Williams has been critical of former Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick’s comments about the stop

Lionel Messi handed the captain’s armband to DeAndre Yedlin

Sepp Kuss becomes the first American to win a Grand Tour since Chris Horner triumphed in the same race 10 years ago

Sports International

Spanish women’s footballers agree to end national team boycott

A dispute between the Spanish women’s football team and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) appears to have reached a breakthrough after the two parties, along with the government’s High Council of Sport (CSD), came to a series of agreements.

Earlier this week, 20 players named to the national team squad reiterated their refusal to play in two upcoming UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures, including against Sweden on Friday.

However, 21 of the 23 players selected in the squad for the upcoming games have now agreed to play and will travel to Sweden, according to a statement from CSD President Víctor Francos

Two players, Barcelona Femení stars Mapi León and Patricia Guijarro, have asked to leave the squad, saying that their situation is “different than for the rest of our colleagues.”

Francos told reporters in the early hours of Wednesday that a “very solid agreement” had been reached between all parties and promised immediate changes in Spanish soccer regarding “the policies on gender equality, advancing on equal pay, advancing on the equity of the quality of infrastructure for sport and, in this case, women’s football.”

He added that the players will not face any sanctions having initially refused to play in the two upcoming fixtures.

Spain won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

“The parties … reached a point where what could have been a disaster won’t be and what could have been bad news looks like it won’t be,” said Francos.

A Mixed Commission featuring representatives for the players, RFEF and CSD will also be created to implement further changes in the future.

“In that committee, we’ve agreed on some powers that cover all of the points that [the players] have spent so much time demanding, like the changes in the women’s football body, the strategic plan of women’s football

and the rest of the changes we’ve been talking about these days,” Amanda Gutiérrez, president of players’ union FUTPRO, told reporters on Wednesday.

Montse Tomé, who replaced Jorge Vilda as head coach of the women’s national team in the wake of the Rubiales controversy, is set to remain in her position having met with the players privately, according to Rafael del Amo, the head of women’s football at RFEF.

Asked about the apparent misleading statements from Tomé at her Monday press conference

regarding Hermoso’s absence from the squad to “protect” the player, del Amo told reporters: “I think at this moment we have to protect her from the pressure that can arise. In the end, she is a player we trust fully. We believe it to be this way and we must be respected.”

Tomé had selected the squad for the upcoming games against Sweden and Switzerland, despite the players stating their “firm will to not be called up for motives which are justified.”

Wednesday’s announcement is the latest development in a longrunning saga between the Spanish

women’s team players, who won a first Women’s World Cup title last month, and RFEF.

The tension between the two parties intensified after Luis Rubiales, the former RFEF president, gave an unwanted kiss to Spanish player Jennifer Hermoso during the World Cup final medal ceremony in Sydney.

Rubiales has since resigned from his position and Spain’s National Court continues to investigate potential charges of sexual assault and coercion against him, which Spanish prosecutors told CNN he denies.

The players’ dissatisfaction with the federation dates back over a year when 15 members of the senior women’s squad (‘Las 15’), sent personally signed letters to RFEF saying that they would no longer play for the national team unless there were wholesale changes made throughout the coaching staff.

Of the 15 players who signed the letters, only three were in Spain’s World Cup squad: Mariona Caldentey, Aitana Bonmatí and Ona Batlle. That trio was included in Tomé’s squad announced on Monday, along with León and Guijarro.

Despite those off-field struggles, a young Spanish side produced a superb run at the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, defeating England in the final to lift a first title.

TKR silence Guyana, storm into CPL final

TRINBAGO Knight Riders (TKR) stormed into the final of the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League with a seven-wicket win over Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium, Guyana on Wednesday.

TKR played their best match against Amazon Warriors for the tournament, after losing two matches to the Guyana franchise in the group phase of the tournament.

After being inserted to bat, Amazon Warriors scored 166/7 in 20 overs, before TKR responded comfortably with 167/3 in 18.1 overs, led by a cracking 80 not out (57 balls) from Jamaican Chadwick Walton.

The Amazon Warriors top order has fired in this tournament, led by Saim Ayub and Shai Hope. However, the TKR bowlers kept them relatively quiet keeping the boundaries to a minimum early on. Ayub could only get to ten off 12

balls, before breaking the shackles by pulling fast bowler Andre Russell for six.

Amazon Warriors rode their luck as both openers Ayub and Odean Smith found the inside edge that raced to the boundary.

Smith got a chance when he was dropped in the sixth over, after bowler Terrance Hinds and cover fielder Walton collided trying to complete the catch.

Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein got the breakthrough as Smith was caught by Kaecy Carty at the midwicket boundary for 15 off 18 balls.

Another left-arm spinner in Waqar Salamkheil dismissed the prolific Shai Hope for just two, caught by Walton at long on for two attempting a slog sweep. TKR would have been glad to see the back of Hope as he is the leading run scorer in the tournament with

Trinbago Knight Riders batsmen Nicholas Pooran, left, and Chadwick Walton run a single against Guyana Amazon Warriors

Sports International

Diamond League final: Coleman and Jackson upset reigning 100m world champions

Christian Coleman and Shericka Jackson upset the reigning 100m world champions to become this year’s Diamond League trophy winners in Eugene, Oregon.

Coleman, 27, beat fellow American Noah Lyles to win the men’s title, equalling the worldleading time of 9.83 seconds.

Sha’Carri Richardson then had to settle for fourth as Jamaica’s Jackson, 29, won the women’s 100m.

Britain’s Laura Muir was denied a third Diamond League title after a superb run by Faith Kipyegon in the women’s 1500m.

Norway’s long-distance star Jakob Ingebrigtsen won the men’s mile as he ran three minutes 43.73 seconds, the third fastest time in history.

The 22-year-old, who is also set to contest the 3,000m on day two of the Diamond League final, held off American Yared Nuguse (3:43.97) while Britain’s George Mills was third in a personal best of 3:47.65.

KIPYEGON CAPS DOMINANT YEAR

At 13 Diamond League meets throughout the year, the world’s best athletes have competed for points to qualify for the final at Hayward Field, which hosted the 2022 World Championships.

Muir, 30, returned to form with victories at her past two Diamond League appearances - in the 800m in Zurich last month and then the 1500m in Brussels.

But the Olympic silver medallist was unable to follow that up in the final as world and Olympic champion Kipyegon blew away the field in the women’s 1500m.

The Kenyan star, who broke three world records this summer, pulled clear on the penultimate lap and stretched her lead on the last to finish just outside her own 1500m record.

Kipyegon, 29, won in a time of 3:50.72 for her fourth Diamond League title, with Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji second (3:53.93) and Muir third in 3:55.16 - her second-fastest time, after the one she ran to win silver at Tokyo 2020.

In the men’s 100m, 2019

world champion Coleman made a fine start to go clear of Lyles, and although the new world champion fought back, he had left it fractionally too late.

Coleman, who finished a disappointing fifth at last month’s World Championships, held on to match the season’s best time for the second time in two weeks, after also winning in 9.83 at the Xiamen Diamond League on 2 September. Lyles was second and Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala third, both timed at 9.85.

Like Lyles, Richardson has established herself as a new star of US sprinting, claiming two world golds in Budapest last month.

But the 23-year-old never recovered after a flat start in the women’s 100m, with 200m world champion Jackson, 29, edging clear to win in 10.70, with Ivory Coast’s Marie-Josee Ta Lou second (10.75) and Jamaica’s Elaine ThompsonHerah third (10.79).

British pair Dina Asher-Smith (10.96) and Imani Lansiquot (11.01) finished seventh and eighth.

There was disappointment for team-mate Matthew HudsonSmith; the world silver medallist was in third position in the men’s 400m when he pulled up on the back straight.

Grenada’s former world and

TKR silence Guyana, storm into CPL ...

409 runs at an average of over 50.

At the innings break it was an even contest with Amazon Warriors 69/2 after ten overs.

Ayub and Khan then increased the scoring rate, hitting 19 runs off the next two overs, but TKR responded with two quick wickets. Ayub was bowled by Salamkheil for 49 off 39 deliveries (four fours, one six) with a googly that spun a lot.

Dwayne Bravo, who only played in TKR’s first four matches of the season, showed that he is still an athletic fielder at 39 years old. Guyana’s Shimron Hetmyer attempted a quick single to get off the mark, but Bravo fielded the ball at midoff and with an underarm throw found him just short of the crease

as Amazon Warriors were now reduced to 91/4 in the 14th over.

Hinds was rewarded for a disciplined bowling effort as Khan edged to wicket-keeper Nicholas Pooran for 36 off 27 balls. Dwaine Pretorius got innovative flicking an Ali Khan delivery for four to third man, but he pushed his luck and trying the same shot was bowled for 15.

With balls running out, Romario Shepherd attacked Hinds pulling a full toss for six and the next ball chased at a wide delivery and added four more to the total. Hinds had the last laugh as Shepherd attempting another attacking shot found the edge and was caught by Pooran for 16.

Gudakesh Motie struck two sixes and one four in the final over

as Khan conceded 18 runs pushing Amazon Warriors to 166/7. Salamkheil (2/28) and Hinds (2/32) were the best bowlers for TKR.

Walton and Mark Deyal got TKR off to a promising start putting on 41 for the first wicket. Walton, replacing the injured Martin Guptill, struck fast bowler Shamar Joseph for three fours in the fourth over as TKR raced to 41 without loss after four overs.

Amazon Warriors captain and leg spinner Imran Tahir grabbed a wicket off his first ball, trapping Deyal leg before for 15. Tahir blocked the view of umpire Nigel Duguid and he could not make a decision, but Amazon Warriors reviewed it and Deyal was given out.

Pooran settled down quickly, hitting Tahir for back-to-back sixes, the first over cover and the second was swept over the square leg boundary.

Tahir gave Walton a second life as he put down a simple catch fielding at mid-wicket off the bowling off Joseph – a drop that would prove costly.

TKR got to 66/1 after seven overs, but Amazon Warriors only allowed 14 runs in the next three overs with tight bowling.

However, Pooran let loose in the 11th over against Pretorius, hitting a straight four followed by another four to mid-wicket. He could not last the over however, as he was well caught by Ayub running in from long off. He scored 33 off 24 balls.

Olympic champion Kirani James, 31, held on to win in a season’s best of 44.30secs, followed by American pair Quincy Hall (44.44) and Vernon Norwood (44.61). Norway’s Karsten Warholm suffered an upset in the men’s 400m hurdles, the world and Olympic champion failing to win in two straight races for the first time since 2018.

He led going into the home straight, with Rai Benjamin third, but the American stormed past both him and Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands to win in a world-leading time of 46.39secs, with Warholm second (46.53). (BBC)

Walton would shift gears with a straight six off Tahir, then showed exquisite timing cutting a delivery for four. Captain Kieron Pollard struck back-to-back boundaries off left-arm spinner Motie to bring the equation further in TKR’s favour.

Walton, who got to his 50, lashed Motie for two sixes and a four in the 17th as TKR were cruising. TKR only needed 13 runs off the last 18 balls when Pollard got an inside edge off Pretorius and was dismissed for 23 off 15.

Walton, who struck six fours and four sixes, and Andre Russell wrapped the victory.

Guyana will face Jamaica Tallawahs on Friday in qualifier two, to see who will face TKR in Sunday’s final. (Newsday.co.tt)

Christian Coleman, won the men’s title by equalling the world-leading time of 9.83 seconds

Shericka Jackson, 29, won the female title

The Delano Williams Foundation 5k and 10k run and walk, which started in 2014, has attracted a number of big companies in the past

“Bigger and better” Delano Williams 5k and 10k Run/Walk this year

TCI’s Olympian Delano Williams said that the Delano Williams Foundation 5k and 10k run and walk event, which is set for mid to late November, will be “bigger and better” this year.

According to information released on Thursday, the event will walk off in Providenciales on November 18th and in Grand Turk

on November 25th.

In an invited comment, Williams said the annual event is two-fold since it gets all age groups in the TCI walking/running and the funds gained contribute towards youth athletic development in the islands.

“We are here to support athletes throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. And the importance is just

Diamond League final: Tsegay and Duplantis set world records

Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay and Sweden’s Armand Duplantis set world records as the Diamond League final concluded in Eugene, Oregon on Sunday.

World 10,000m champion Tsegay shattered the women’s 5,000m record as she won in a time of 14 minutes 00.21 seconds.

Duplantis then clinched the men’s pole vault title before clearing his first attempt at 6.23m at Hayward Field.

Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson was second in the women’s 800m as Shericka Jackson made it a sprint

double in the 200m.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen won his second Diamond League title of the weekend after running the third fastest time in men’s mile history on Saturday.

The Norwegian long-distance star held on to win the men’s 3,000m in a thrilling photo finish after a late surge by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha.

Ingebrigtsen, 22, won in 7:23.63

- one hundredth of a second ahead of Kejelcha - for the third fastest time ever, a marginal improvement on his previous best of 7:24.00,

to help athletes get prepared for the upcoming school season and also for cross-country.”

The national 100M and 200M record holder said the idea is to increase the participation this year. He said the aim is to sign up both individuals and groups, such as the Education Department and the Police Force, among a number

of NGOs and fitness bodies.

“This year we doing it bigger and better; we want to upgrade the cash prizes and other stuff.”

With a little over two months before the event runs off, Williams said the foundation is looking for volunteers. He also noted that persons/businesses willing to support the entity are also very welcome.

“We are looking for sponsors as well, we’ll be sending out letters shortly, but they can contact me directly if they want to sponsor the event as well. They can reach out to me at delanowilliams@hotmail. com.”

Tickets are $20 per person and participants will receive a free t-shirt.

which he set at the Paris Diamond League meet on 9 June.

Tsegay, 26, knocked almost five seconds off the previous women’s 5,000m record of 14:05.20 set by Kenyan star Faith Kipyegon, also on 9 June in Paris. Kenya’s

Beatrice Chebet was just outside the previous mark as she finished second in 14:05.92.

It is the seventh time Duplantis has broken the pole vault record over the last four years. The fifth of those records was set at the same

Eugene track when the Olympic champion, 23, won his first world title in July 2022.

Sunday’s action also included a silver medal for GB’s Zac Shaw in the men’s para-athletics 100m final.

The event is set for the latter part of November in Provo and Grand Turk

Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay (left) and Sweden’s Armand Duplantis

Avengers win PAL Softball Championship

THE Avengers ensured that the Badgers did not repeat as champions when they clashed in the Police Action League (PAL) Softball Championships over the

weekend at the Downtown Ball Park.

After defeating Skyhawks 16-15 in the semi-finals, the Avengers were ready for the

final and they showed their might with a 22-20 win over the Badgers. Skyhawks finished in third place.

Avengers were led by the explosive Jodee Harvey, who not only copped the Championship Top Hitter award, but the MVP of the Championship.

The league’s MVP award, however, went to Skyhawks’ Shakeathia Taylor, while the Badgers’ Jelena Riviere finished as the Top Pitcher.

Retired English striker Cole and former Arsenal co-owner Dein for TCIFA Gala

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association will have two big names in football grace its Inaugural Awards Gala Ball, which is set for Friday, October 13 at the Shore Club.

This week, the TCIFA announced that former English professional striker, Andrew “Andy” Cole, who played the game from 1988-2008 and former co-owner and vice-chair of Arsenal Football Club, David Dein, will be the special guests at the upcoming ball.

Cole, now 51, has the distinction of being one of the few players in England to have swept all possible honours in the English game, including the PFA Young Player of the Year awards, as well as the coveted UEFA Champions League title. Cole was also capped 15 times for the England National Team between 1995 and 2001, scoring once against Albania in a 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Overall, he spent six years with Manchester United after being transferred from Newcastle United, and won nine trophies including the Treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League in 1999. He also played in the top division of English football for Arsenal, Blackburn

Rovers, Fulham, Manchester City, Portsmouth and Sunderland, as well as in the Football League for Bristol City, Birmingham City, Burnley and Nottingham Forest. He is the fourth-highest goal-scorer in Premier League History with 187 goals, and held the Premier League records for most goals scored in a 42-game season (34) before the year 2023, and fastest to score 50 goals (65 matches), as well as being the first player to top the Premier League’s goal-scoring

charts and assist charts in the same season, in their own right, from 1993-4.

Cole announced his retirement from football, ending his 19-year career, in November 2008.

Dein was the artist off the football pitch, he was instrumental in convincing some of the world’s greatest talents to join Arsenal and transforming it into what it is today, on and off the pitch.

Dein was also one of the major architects of the FA Premier

League in 1992, reshaping the structure and finances of English football; and a former Vice-Chair of the Football Association (The FA). Additionally, he spent some time as President of the G-14 group of European football clubs sitting on various committees within FIFA and UEFA, including UEFA’s Club Competition Committee and Executive Committee.

In 2010, Dein was appointed as international president of England’s 2018 World Cup Bid.

According to the FA, Dein continues to remain active on the football scene, providing his views on the future of football around the world, whether it be via interviews, conferences, or public speaking engagements.

There are limited seats available for the TCIFA gala. Tickets per person are $250, while per table (10 seats), is $2500.

For more information please contact Ms Candia Ewing: cewingtcifa@gmail.com

There were some standout players in the 2023 event

Avengers were crowned the champions of the PAL 2023 season

Andy Cole is a former English striker

David Dein is a former co-owner and vice-chair of Arsenal Football Club