TCWN Dec 20 2014 - Jan 2, 2015

Weekly News Volume 26 | No. 51 | December 20 – January 2, 2015

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Turks and Caicos

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inside

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Premier defends giving Beaches money

PAGE  7

Governor announces review of Financial Services Commission PAGE  4

Grace Bay Foundation spreads Christmas cheer in South Caicos PAGE  17

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

jury bill Withdrawn

PAGE The trial without a Jury Ordinance 2010 Repeal Bill 2014 was on 4 Wednesday (December 17) pulled from consideration in the House of Assembly after constitutional issues were raised by the Attorney General.

NHIB spreads good cheer with Christmas donations

The winners were the Customer Service and registration department with their take on the theme ‘Tis the night before Christmas’ PAGE 

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Unconstitutional repeal bill pulled from parliament

BY DELANA ISLES THE TRIAL without a Jury Ordinance 2010 Repeal Bill 2014 was on Wednesday (December 17) pulled from consideration in the House of Assembly after constitutional issues were raised by the Attorney General.

The bill encountered several snags since being tabled in the House on October 15 and debated last month.

On Monday when it came up for further debate and possible amendments in the committee of the whole, Ruth Blackman, Government appointed member and the mover of the bill, asked that it be withdrawn.

Her request came after Governor’s appointed member Lillian Misick voiced her scepticism when

Blackman moved a motion for sub clauses two and three to be deleted from the bill.

Clause two reads: This ordinance applies in respect of proceedings for offences committed after the commencement of this ordinance and proceedings for offences committed before the commencement of the ordinance where proceedings have not yet started.

Clause three reads: For the purpose of subsection one proceedings shall be considered commenced where charges have been instituted but the trial has not commenced.

According to the Standing Orders of the House, any motion or bills presented in the assembly has to be seconded by another member

Lillian Misick

and then a vote taken for it to be approved.

Deputy Premier Akierra Missick seconded the motion, but another

Governor announces review of Financial Services Commission A PROBE into the workings of the country’s financial regulator is set to take place in January, according to Governor Peter Beckingham.

He made the announcement during his speech at the Financial Service Commission (FSC)’s annual general meeting on Friday (December 12).

He said that he has finalised arrangements for an independent reviewer to examine the body next year and suggest areas that need strengthening.

“A good financial regulator is key to the growth and sound operation of the financial services industry in any jurisdiction, and we have commissioned this review to ensure the Turks and Caicos Islands’ FSC is as well-equipped as possible to deliver its objectives,” Beckingham said.

“These types of reviews are commonplace throughout the world, and this exercise is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the effective operation of the bodies charged with upholding good governance in the TCI.” The review will explore the FSC’s value for money in delivering

effective regulation, meeting international standards, and securing for the TCI the competitive advantage derived from being a well-regulated jurisdiction.

It will focus on the direction given to the organisation by the board and the senior management of the FSC. The probe will also look into the number and experience of staff employed, especially compared to other Caribbean overseas territories.

Among other topics to be examined are the structure of the FSC including the companies’ registry function and fees charged to the financial services sector.

The review body will conduct an assessment of the FSC reserve position and provisions, external relations with financial services organisations in TCI and relations with regional or global financial compliance bodies.

“There has been background noise from within the financial services sector of criticism and carping about the FSC,” the Governor added during his morning speech at the Regent Palms.

“The aim of this review, which has been agreed with its chair Sir Erroll

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Bird - News Editor Delana Isles - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1

Allen and will be shared with his board, is to provide a brief but incisive analysis of how the commission is performing, and possible areas to consider strengthening.”

The review will be conducted

by Steve Johnson, an independent consultant and a former UK Treasury official.

He has spent more than 20 years working with the financial services industry and regulators.

Johnson was secretary to the independent review of British offshore financial services centres known as the ‘Foot review’.

He has continued to work with the sector in the UK and in Caribbean overseas territories since publication of the review in 2009.

In an interview with the Weekly News this week FSC managing director Kevin Higgins said that he knows Johnson from his previous work on the Foot review.

“We have no problems in terms of cooperating with the individual.

“We provided him with information, we’re going to cooperate, so we expect to get a very good, a very high rating from the review.”

Just last month Premier Rufus Ewing announced an upcoming review of the FSC which would look into their handling of failing insurance company British Atlantic Financial Services Ltd (BAFSL).

He complained that the commission was overregulating the sector and not communicating efficiently with the Government.

In response Higgins said: “When these issues occur, because they are so serious, our non-executive directors do an internal review.”

He added: “We’re willing to cooperate and happy to cooperate with any review that the Government wishes to undertake as well.”

The FSC is an independent statutory body tasked with the supervision of the financial services sector.

It is also responsible for the oversight of company formation and registration and is accountable for its performance to the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The commission was established under the Financial Services Commission Ordinance 2001 and continued by the Financial Services Commission Ordinance 2007 to regulate the financial services industry.

member said no to the motion being carried.

The Governor’s appointed member then interjected, stating that the proceedings were going from the “sublime to the ridiculous”.

“You have one person saying aye and one person say no; I mean, where is this going really and truly, where is it going? How many persons do you have to have to vote yes for anything to carry in this House?

“This is getting ridiculous. I think what should have happened was…it should be pulled and recommitted if anything.”

Blackman then stood up and asked that the bill be withdrawn, and the move was readily seconded by the Governor’s member and approved by the members who were present. Several members had declared possible conflicts of interest with the bill and recused themselves from the debate.

But before it was presented to the committee for amendments, as promised during the November session, the Attorney General provided the House with some guidance regarding the constitutionality of the bill.

She stated that by virtue of the statement of Governance Principles and section 83 of the constitution, that there should be a respect for the rule of law and for the independence of the judiciary.

“Against that background, and on the last time the House sat and the bill was presented, and having sought clarifications from the proposer of the bill and having had it confirmed that it was intended to be retrospective – there is only one matter, one trial that has been dealt with under that ordinance and if it is intended to be retrospective then the implications of that are wide.”

What the bill being retrospective means is that upon being enacted by the Governor, it would effectively

set aside decisions that have been taken by the courts in relation to the corruption trial of the former Premier Michael Misick and the nine others accused.

The Attorney General further advised that if that is in fact the intent of the bill to do this, then it is unconstitutional because it interferes with both the rule of law, the respect that members are required to uphold and with the independence of the judiciary.

She added: “Additionally I wish to put on the record that I have also raised concerns in response to queries made to me about apparent conflicts of interests which I believe exist in respect of members in this House who are related to defendants and benefit from this retrospective bill.”

The legal advisor stated that these conflicts arise due to close relations or associations which are well known.

And that in accordance with the code of conduct for people in public life those members should declare their conflicts and take the necessary steps to mitigate the appearance or actual conflicts in accordance with the guidance issued by the integrity commission.

She also noted that in relation to the repeal of the Trial Without a Jury Ordinance 2010, the result would be to repeal the entire provision permitting an application from a defendant for a trial without a jury.

“Bearing in mind that the constitution in section six requires a fair hearing by an independent and impartial court.”

She added that the Trial Without a Jury Ordinance establishes the only mechanism in this jurisdiction for a judge alone to preside over a trial, if under certain circumstances a fair hearing could not be obtained by a jury system.

Works on South Caicos airport to start early next year THE SOUTH Caicos airport, renamed the James Bassette Airport, will enter into the first phase of works to upgrade the facility to an international airport early in 2015.

Minister of Finance, Washington Misick recently confirmed this.

He said that now that works at the Providenciales International Airport have been completed, the TCI Airport Authority (TCIAA) will oversee works at the sister island’s facility.

Government recently approved the diversion of some $1.9 million that was to be deposited into Government coffers by the TCIAA to be put towards the construction of the South Caicos airport.

In addition to this sum, the Government had allocated money in the 2014/2015 budget under the capital expenditure

for preparatory works at the location, taking the first phase sum to about $3 million.

The entire rehabilitation is expected to take up to about three years to the tune of about $10 million, Premier Rufus Ewing told the media at a recent press conference.

The first phase of the work is the resurfacing of the airport’s entire runway and the turnaround point as well as the development of the tower and the fire hall.

It is expected, as announced previously, that the ramshackle terminal and the unfinished construction will be demolished in favour of a completely new structure.

The new airport will also allow for energy efficiency, unlike the JAGS McCartney terminal in Grand Turk.

(DELANA ISLES)

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

NEWS

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Premier defends giving Beaches money PREMIER Rufus Ewing recently defended a Cabinet decision to give $500,000 to Beaches to assist them with marketing activities during the slow season of September and October.

He told the Weekly News in an interview that he would do it again as he deems this year’s grant to the resort to have been beneficial.

“I gauge the process as very effective, there were a lot of things that happened even last year and in this year that people just didn’t know how it happened,” Ewing said.

About him being slammed for giving Beaches the money, he responded: “I will do it again because…Beaches was able to remain open and continue airlifts into Turks and Caicos during the slow season and still be able to market the country.”

He noted that it is no secret that

the company has the best marketing mechanism of possibly any hotel operation in the world.

“So they were able to market and promote this country and allow for taxi drivers to continue to get work, food places to still be open.

“The trickle-down effect of that surpasses any money Government would have given to Beaches.”

The Premier stated that last year when the hotel closed there were complaints about why the Government did not do something that would allow them to stay open.

“The Opposition slammed us for not doing something to allow them to stay open, now system is in place to allow them to stay open and allow the economy to continue to run and we are getting slammed for it.”

He added that as a result of the efforts undertaken by Beaches, every hotel in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Premier Rufus Ewing

is now filled.

The agreement was announced in September by the Premier, during which time he said that the funds are

to be channelled through the Tourist Board as it is budgeted for under the allocation for the board.

The board does not have any role to use the funds other than to turn it over to Beaches to be used for marketing purposes in the TCI. During the sitting of the House of Assembly in October, in response to a question Ewing stated that the grant to Beaches is expected to be a yearly disbursement.

He also explained that the new development agreement with the resort contains a provision for the sum of $500,000 on a year to year basis.

He added that this would be based on requests and certain other conditions that go towards the marketing to support the mega family trips and to support the marketing of airline and airlifts into the destination during the season.

Asked by an Opposition member if the money is a lump sum payment or given over a period of time, the Premier said it is done over a specific time frame which requires Beaches to give notice to the Government that they intend to remain open for the aforementioned slow months.

He said that based on that request they will dialogue with the Government to determine the actual need for the money.

He also noted that the Government still has the flexibility with Beaches to see whether to pay it on in a lump sum or not, depending on the Government’s ability to pay.

When asked if any other country does this, the Premier said he does not know, but added that Beaches is a major player in the TCI and the decision is to keep the country’s and employees’ livelihoods going.

(DELANA ISLES)

Williams Auditorium to become grocery store AFTER 13 years as a community events centre hosting concerts, weddings, awards ceremonies and more, the role of Williams Auditorium is about to change.

Next January the huge centre on South Dock Road in Providenciales will be home to a low cost wholesale grocery store.

Owner Delroy Williams has sold the lease to Sunny Foods Retail and Wholesale for the next ten years.

“It was not an easy decision to shift the community focus of Williams Auditorium,” Williams said, “but with the significant slump in business and greatly reduced need for the 10,000 square feet premises for events we decided it was a good move to allow Sunny Foods Retail and Wholesale to lease the space and move in.”

He officially handed over the building to Sunny Foods on Monday (December 15) and modifications are already taking place in anticipation of its reopening.

The company has added a new side entrance, overhauled the interior of the structure and graded the parking lot, which is one of the most expansive parking areas in the country.

“I do understand the role Williams Auditorium has played in the lives of my people,” Williams said.

“Williams has hosted concerts, funerals, pageants, weddings, church services, awards ceremonies, banquets, political functions, events for just about every ethnic group and there have been graduations – but this was a decision to see the building used on a regular basis.”

In November 2000 Williams began construction on the auditorium and it took eight months to complete.

Work on the site included clearing the two and a half acres of land, to

erecting the steel, constructing the concrete siding and outfitting the interior for any event of any size.

“It’s so funny to think about how Williams Auditorium came to being,” Williams said.

“I was a part of the Provo Day Committee and we needed a venue after some fall out with another spot we had rented.

“Some members of the committee were so upset by the situation that I personally vowed that by the next year, we would have our own place to host Provo Day.” In July 2001, Williams Auditorium was ready for use and ready for Provo Day. Several award winning singers have performed at the centre in its 13 years including Beres Hammond, Beenie Man, Lucky Dube and Morgan Heritage.

It has also been host to gospel music royalty including Shirley

Williams Auditorium on South Dock Road will soon be a grocery store

Cesar, Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton and Juanita Bynum.

Others that performed for crowds at the auditorium are Zenglen, Ronnie Butler, KB, Winston Jennings, Keno and Kaz, V6, Lee and the Force, Barbara Johnson, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, Richie Spice and many more.

“I know the venue will be missed,” Williams said, “particularly for organisations like Clement Howell High School which has held its graduation ceremony here year after year, yet I believe there is hope for a new Williams Auditorium.

“Don’t count me out. We can come back when there is a market demand, we can build again.”

Delroy Williams, owner of the 10,000ft Williams Auditorium

Stray dog cull halted due to trap theft TRAPS for catching stray potcakes have been stolen leading to the halt of an island wide euthanasia programme.

This week the Department of Agriculture appealed to members of the public to immediately stop taking or damaging the equipment.

In a press release on Monday (December 15) Chief Veterinarian Dr Mark Butler said that the vandalism is unacceptable.

“The department uses these traps to affect the stray dog population. Without these traps we cannot remove these dogs from our communities.

“Such practice, if continued, will curtail the

gains we have made to reduce the stray dog population in Providenciales, as well as the financial applications associated with purchasing replacement traps.”

Just last month Minister of Environment and Human Affairs, Amanda Missick, announced the Department of Agriculture would be resuming its trapping exercise in Providenciales and the family islands.

She said the programme had been boosted by the addition of 30 traps worth about $400 each that were procured with the assistance of the Grand Turk Cruise Centre.

About 30 traps were stolen or damaged earlier in the year, causing the programme to be

suspended.

She warned people who are destroying the traps that it is a crime and they will be prosecuted when caught.

In the recent release the department urged anyone who witnesses the acts of theft and those who are responsible to report them to the Department of Agriculture or the police.

It also encouraged residents to become responsible animal owners by ensuring that their dogs are spay or neutered, licensed and kept on their property.

The trapping programme is designed to reduce the number of stray and feral dogs in the TCI.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

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

Results of PNP Gov’t EVERY island in the TCI chain is suffering after two years of a PNPled Government, according to the Leader of the Opposition.

In a recent PDM press conference Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said that infrastructure is bad, unemployment is high and needs are being neglected.

Do you think the PNP has done a good job? What could they have done differently?

Cumulative bad choices

I hate to be cynical at Christmas, but would it really make any difference which party was in power?

After two years, the headlines would probably be the same, regardless of which party were in power.

In fact, it would be an interesting exercise for you to do exactly that - take a look at your headline stories, two years after every election since 1988, and publish them.

And while you are at it, you might take a look at the testimony by the Mike Misick administration, during the special investigation, to remind folks of just how much of their money the boys spent while they were holding the reins.

The parties and cars, and houses took a lot of $$ that could have been spent on schools and housing and reasonable medical costs.

And if you really want to go down memory lane, also take a peek at the PDM admin previous to Mike Ms - that too was eight years of cronyism, bribes and Belongership giveaways.

As the nation’s newspaper, you could remind people that the state we are in today is due to cumulative bad choices over many years.

People need to educate themselves in order to make intelligent choices, and stop relying on their representatives to help them out.

Taking too long

This PNP Government is following closely behind the Mike Misick government.

Why does the Premier have to get such an

expensive vehicle when some departments in Government lack basic operating materials?

The civil servants who are working to generate the money should be considered first before the Government ministers who are drawing fat salaries plus allowances just for flying up and down the place.

It’s taking too long to fix a piece of bad road in Whitby, North Caicos, and even here in Provo.

Many more poor people and high school students in the Islands should be out on the roads cleaning up and making some money for Christmas rather than being invited to Christmas party by the Premier.

Where are the funds coming from to fund such parties? Previous administration led people to believe that it was from their pockets when it was not so.

Why not give people not businesses a break on import duties this Christmas as a way of giving back?

Keep their word?

When vying for our votes, they published a manifesto that promised amazing things.

Where is this document now? Can we find a copy?

Let us take it out of the bottom of the drawer and have a journalist question a PNP representative, go over it point by point, and let us see how many of their promises they have kept.

And let’s ask why they didn’t keep the rest and how they will keep their word in the next two years.

Roads and schools

They need to take a stronger stance with the

Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

The allocation of funds toward paying down the loan is far too high!

We are paying off our national debt at a rate far faster than any country in the world, especially the UK. We need roads and schools. We need to be able to give tax breaks to developers. The money will come in larger quantities with proper development.

Unity is critical

The jury is still out on the PNP Government.

Their approach to governance, style and politics is really different owing largely to the constitutional restrictions they suffer under.

The Opposition is correct insofar as the Government needs to liaise with the people and the Opposition more.

The Leader of the Opposition scored an important point when she exposed the need for the Government to liaise more on the immigration bill which was defeated in the House of Assembly.

The new political reality is that differences are not so sharp because the Premier and Leader of the Opposition tend to debate more on issues than on personalities which is helpful to us uniting as a people.

Unity is critical because the TCI public, the Government, Chamber of Commerce and private sector all need to unite to outflank British government policy on areas such as taxes.

Even if the Government budgets for infrastructure they cannot execute because there is some official, unelected, who is trying to tell elected ministers you can do this or you can’t do that.

Ministers will be faulted for not being more vigilant in exposing these subtle and direct attacks on constitutionality.

So the economic and social issues will be laid at their feet, fault or not, because they first need to find common ground with the Opposition to take on these vital issues in the spirit of unity.

Money sucked up

First and foremost, get rid of Portia Stubbs Smith – an absolute joke in what is a very important ministry.

Minister authorised to override insurance board decisions AMENDMENTS to the National Insurance Ordinance were on Thursday evening (December 18) passed by the House of Assembly.

The amendment bill was moved

by Minister of Finance, Washington Misick.

The changes to the ordinance now make a provision for the minister responsible for national insurance to, after a recommendation from the TCI Integrity Commission, rectify the situation where the board is not acting in the best interest of the insured persons or where the board is not acting in conformity with the ordinance.

It also makes provisions for the appointment of investment and audit committees of the board; for the minister to consult the board prior to the appointment of the director or a chief executive officer; to insure that the director has the necessary qualifications and experience for the job.

Further provisions are made for the introduction of a confidentiality provision to govern circumstances where officers, employees or agents of the board acquire information in their official duties, as well as for the creation of an offence for breach of

Minister of Finance, Washington Misick

the confidentiality provision.

There is also a new provision for all investments to be made in accordance with the NIB’s Investment Policy Statement and for the statement to be prepared by the board after consultation with the minister.

The bill further amended section 2(1) of the ordinance to insert definitions for ‘National Health Insurance Board’ and ‘National Health Insurance Plan.’

Other changes to the ordinance include the replacement of section 49 in order to provide that the

National Insurance Board shall pay to the National Health Insurance Board such sums of money as are actuarially assessed for providing medical services to insured people who suffer employment injury.

A new provision is made for corporate bodies and the officers of the bodies to be proceeded against at the same time in cases where offences against the ordinance have been committed and to widen the provision to include other unincorporated bodies of persons.

The newly amended ordinance now introduces a provision for NIB contributions to be paid in cases where warrants or distress are executed against the property of delinquent contributors.

A further provision is made for the Permanent Secretary of Finance to be an ex officio member of the board and for his or her representative to deputise when the substantive member is absent.

The final amendment to the ordinance introduces sanctions for board members who are present at board meetings and fail to disclose their interest in a matter that is the subject of consideration at the meeting. (DELANA ISLES)

Then, particularly with all the notices about how the tourist related revenues are running so far ahead of budget, why have the Provo Post Office and the Education Department building (and probably many more) not yet been dealt with?

Oops, forgot about all the money being sucked up by the Government’s and ministerial travel and the Premier’s fancy new vehicle!

If the country really is benefitting from these extras, it would be nice to see exactly where the improvements have been made – seems like they are in spite of Government, rather than because of them!

A bad game

The PNP has mortally failed the party, the people, and the country!

The PNP has demonstrated that given an opportunity, the tools and the will, cannot, could not, or simply chose not to act on behalf of the people who actually believed in them.

The clearest example of failure is when the PNP with contempt chose not to be an executive government of action, one of engagement, one of will, and mostly one of inclusion.

It seems that the leadership really did not know what to do when called upon.

Unemployment as a national issue was the responsibility of both the PDM and the PNP, even though the PDM never offered the solution, the PNP never gave them the opportunity to participate in national building and commitment.

Surely the good people of the TCI deserve much more and rightfully so.

Real politics must be understood to play the political game, the PNP game was not sufficient.

 Become a contributor Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com

Nearly $2m in unlawful NIB payments authorised A VALIDATION Bill has been passed to confirm payments of increased pensions by the National Insurance Board that were issued without lawful authority.

The House of Assembly passed the National Insurance Benefit (Validation) Ordinance 2014 this Thursday (December 18).

The ordinance deals with invalidity pension, widow’s, widower’s and child’s pensions, disablement pension and widow’s, widower’s and child benefits.

These were increased by 15 percent with effect from April 1, 2004; by 15 percent with effect from July 1, 2007; and by 7.5 percent and 8 percent with effect from January 1, 2012.

From April 1, 2004 to date increased benefits were paid out in respect of the stated benefits, although they were not supported by law.

Over the past several years the National Insurance Board has paid out benefits totalling $1,957,745.17 million, as at August 1 this year that were unauthorised.

The House of Assembly also passed a new law for the establishment of an investment agency for the promotion, stimulation and facilitation of investments in the Islands.

The intention is to bring investors into the Islands and promote both foreign direct and domestic investment, with the view to undertake development.

The Invest Turks and Caicos Agency Bill sets out the provisions for the establishment of the agency.

The agency is to be established as a corporate body with legal personality, and provides the standard provisions applicable to corporate bodies.

It will be run by a board of directors.

Also in parliament the Encouragement of Development Ordinance was amended and passed by the House of Assembly to bring it in line with the newly passed Invest Turks and Caicos Agency Bill.

The amendment to the ordinance further makes changes relating to the period of exemption given to developers, and increasing the fines for contravening the listed provisions of the ordinance.

Clause three of the bill amends section two of the principal ordinance by substituting the definition of agency to reflect the name of the new agency established in the proposed Invest TCI Agency Bill.

Clause four of the bill amends section six of the ordinance by reducing the exemption periods from 35 years to 15 years.

And clause five amends section 14 of the ordinance by increasing the fine for contravention of the provisions listed in that section, from $1,000 to $100,000 and changes six months to three years, respectively.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Constitution review report is out

BY DELANA ISLES CONTAINED in the 20 page report of proposed changes to the 2011 Constitution are recommendations for the automatic right to a trial by jury to be restored and for the chief financial officer (CFO) position to be dismantled.

These are just two of numerous changes that the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands would like to see reflected in a revised constitution.

The report was tabled in the House of Assembly on Monday (December 16) by Premier Rufus Ewing and gazetted soon after.

RECOMMENDATIONS Office of the Chief Financial Officer The committee recommended that the United Kingdom government take this matter under urgent and very serious review, and not wait until the $260 million loan guarantee is either retired or substantially amortised.

As stated in the report, the position and responsibilities of a CFO and the office of the Minister of Finance ought to be clearly delineated and defined as a matter of priority.

“We wish to respectfully advise that any dilution of the powers of an elected minister of finance cannot be regarded as anything but a violation of, if not the letter certainly the spirit of the constitution,” the report reads.

The committee thereby recommended that the office of the CFO be taken out of the constitution.

The fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual The committee recommended that the automatic right to trial by jury be returned to the constitution, as was stated in the 2006 Constitution.

In respect to Section 10 in the

document, which deals with the protection of right to marry and found a family, the committee recommended that this section remain as it is currently drafted.

“The section is clear and concise enough to withstand any challenge to institution of marriage as drafted, and the wording should therefore remain unaltered,” the report states.

In another section under this heading dealing with the protection of right to education, the committee recommended that this section remains as it is currently drafted.

The report reads: “The Turks and Caicos Islands is signatory to the European Union convention of the rights of the child, additionally anti-discriminatory provisions are couched in this very part dealing with ‘fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual’.”

The Governor and the Executive “With respect to the position of the Deputy Governor, the question is whether or not he or she should remain a member of Cabinet as mandated by Section 25.

“The recommendation is that Section 25 remains unaltered and the Deputy Governor continues to be a full Cabinet member,” the committee agreed.

According to the report, Section 28 of the constitution and the Statement of Governance Principles have befuddled audiences from its introduction.

It noted that no one appears to know what these are, or how they are best adhered to.

The committee thereby recommended that a greater effort should be mounted to acquaint people with this document and the

TCIG pays rent to use national stadium THE OPPOSITION has questioned the wisdom of the Government paying rent to the TCI Education Foundation to use the national stadium instead of relocating the facility to somewhere else.

During this week’s sitting of the House of Assembly, Opposition appointed member Clarence Selver pointed to the millions of dollars being invested in the property that is not owned by the Government.

He stated: “We have to know if this is worth holding on to or should the Government look at relocating.”

Selver was at the time speaking about the Supplementary Appropriations Bill under which some $65,000 has been allocated to the Ministry of Education under the heading “maintenance services” for repair works at the stadium.

“Can you imagine a government investing millions of dollars in a property that we do not own or have an agreement with the owners?

“That is the case and that is why in last year’s budget we paid $650,000 of the people’s money for back rent for the property we call the national stadium,” the Opposition member pointed out.

He added: “No one could get the Minister of Education to say how much the rent going forward will cost us; apparently some agreement has been reached.”

Following up on the member’s

statements, Attorney General Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles confirmed that the TCI Government is currently a tenant, although she did not disclose just how much this is costing the Government.

“It’s a periodic tenancy we have at the moment and what we are negotiating for is to conclude the lease arrangement,” she said.

Recently, the Premier told this publication that the Government has been paying rent for the facility since the back rent was paid off a few months back.

“That was the arrangement the whole time, we just can’t occupy the property and not pay.

“That decision was made when the money was allocated for the back rent payment and since that time we have been paying forward rent,” he said.

The dispute has been ongoing for some six years between the foundation and the government.

The foundation owns the land the Government-funded stadium was built on in 2007.

They took ownership of the stadium some years ago to force an agreement between itself and the Government about ownership and management of the property.

The foundation wanted a formal and fair arrangement which recognises the interests of both the public and the foundation, as well as to ensure transparent management of the stadium. (DELANA ISLES)

part it is intended to play in the conduct of the country’s affairs.

It goes on to note that although not expressly or specifically spelled out in detail in the constitution, the question of the setting and composition of the agendas of Cabinet meetings appears to be a bone of contention that requires resolution.

The actual facts are that while the Governor functions as the president of the Cabinet by virtue of Section 39(1) of the constitution, nevertheless, the Premier is in fact the de facto head of Government, the report states.

The recommendation in this regard is for the Premier to be accorded the right and privilege of approving any agenda by which meetings of the Cabinet are to be conducted, or failing this, to assume the responsibility himself of setting such agendas.

The Premier of the Islands Section 31 subsection 1(b) of the constitution makes provision for the appointment of a Premier by the Governor, but this section does not spell out any personal qualifications which define his tenure of office, the report noted.

“Audiences throughout the length and breadth of the Turks and Caicos Islands are of the view that the time has come when the Premier of the country is mandated to be an indigenous Turks and Caicos Islander.”

The committee thereby recommended that the qualification for Premier should now include that such a person be a Turks and Caicos Islander, born in the Islands to parents, one of whom is a Turks and Caicos Islander who was himself or herself born in the Islands, or if born outside the Islands to parents, one of whom was himself or herself a Turks and Caicos Islander, and that such a persons should have a connection with the Islands.

With respect to term limits, the report stated there appeared to be no support at all for the disqualification for Premier of a person, who having served two consecutive terms as Premier was now seeking the appointment as Premier for a third

consecutive term.

The committee recommended that this disqualification, which is contained in the current constitution, should be repealed.

Additionally, the committee wants an amendment to the section 34(1)(d) and (e) which states that a minister has to vacate his office on the recommendation of the Integrity Commission, if the minister breaches the code of conduct for persons in public life, or breaches section 103 which provides for the registration of interests of persons in public life.

The proposed amendment reads: “The Integrity Commission ought to be required to report the matter to His Excellency the Governor, who in turn takes the matter to the Attorney General and Cabinet.

“The onus is now on the Attorney general to advise the Governor in Cabinet. Due process would have been satisfied and the minister (subject to whatever action is taken) now has sufficient grounds to pursue the matter further.”

The legislature The committee recommended that the unicameral system be retained.

This is a representative form of government with a single legislative chamber.

The report states that with respect to Section 47 - the appointed members to the House of Assembly, and their method of appointment, it is recommended that there should continue to be four members.

However, one should be appointed by the Governor acting in his discretion, two should be appointed by the Governor acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier, and one should be appointed by the Governor acting in accordance with the advice of the Leader of the Opposition.

With respect to Section 49(e) the committee recommended that the period of disqualification from elective politics should be reduced from 15 years to 10 years.

It added that the Integrity Commission should not have the power to have the speaker declare the seat of a member of the House of Assembly vacant as mandated in section 51(3).

“It is recommended that the

Under the tree

speaker be required to consult with the Attorney General in the matter, and the question of vacation be determined by the Attorney General and not the Integrity Commission.”

Under Section 60 and the Electoral Boundary Commission, the recommendation is that the country reverts to the constitutional position of 2006 in relation to the appointment of members.

The committee further recommends that a Speaker of the House who is drawn from outside the House should not have a casting vote.

The judicature It is recommended that the chairman of the judicial service commission be appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Premier and the other two members after consultation with the Premier and Leader of the Opposition.

The public service The report states that the committee was advised that the position of Deputy Chairman of the Public Service Commission should be created.

The submission was accepted, and it is so recommended by the committee.

“The concern of many in the system was that consideration should be given to a return to the 2006 Constitution with respect to formation of the public service commission, the Governor’s discretionary powers, his obligations of consultation, and the Governor’s discretionary powers specifically over removal and disciplinary actions for the public service.”

The report notes these submissions have merit, and recommended that the necessary changes be made.

The committee further recommended that consideration be given to the inclusion in the Public Service Commission of a member who either possesses some legal expertise or has a legal background.

“Lastly, it was submitted to us that the Public Service Ordinance has become outdated, and it should now be brought more in line, in tune with the constitution. We concur, and so continued 

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By Benneth Williams

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Letters Fix the potholes for good

The store in Central Square celebrates with festive decorations, Christmas deals and giveaways

Goldsmith’s grand giveaways this Christmas CHRISTMAS is a time for giving and Goldsmith’s is doing just that this holiday season.

For the entire month of December customers and even their Facebook fans have gotten a chance to win amazing prizes and are still entering to win more.

Goldsmith’s grand Christmas promotion allows customers to enter a raffle for a chance to win an iPhone 6 Plus, a Kipling luggage set, $400 gift certificate, a luxury gift basket and a designer fragrance set.

Any purchase gives shoppers a chance to enter the raffle which will be drawn on December 30.

Earlier in the month two exciting

Facebook contests were hosted where the company gave away a Cannon camera and a $250 Michael Kors gift certificate.

Presently on Facebook, their fans are entering for a chance to win a $300 gift certificate.

This year, the luxury store celebrated 20 years of opening their first store in Central Square, Providenciales, and since have expanded and opened stores in Grace Bay and Grand Turk.

Store owner Ajay Tolani is also well know when it comes to giving to community causes in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Whether through financial support

or in-kind donations, Goldsmith’s charitable contributions have assisted various causes including the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre, TCI Top Model Contest, churches, the Cancer Society and the Turks and Caicos Aids Awareness Foundation.

Their most recent donation to the Turks and Caicos Aids Awareness Fundraiser on December 8 was a collection of fabulous auction items to raise funds for the youth centre.

During the busy Christmas season as well as during the summer months they open up their doors and hire high school children, allowing them the opportunity to work for the prestigious luxury store.

Dear Editor, I wonder if the TCIG realises that providing proper infrastructure is the responsibility of the Government.

We want investors to flock to our shores, but as if the ride from the airport isn’t bad enough.

I am sure they will experience the deplorable condition of our roads, poorly marked speed bumps and turn signals, along with uneven roundabouts that will no doubt remind them of an amusement park ride.

Even if not for the sake of new investment, I’m sure existing developers are also concerned and wondering how much longer we will have to live in pothole central.

God forbid the Government actually takes the initiative to actually do something on behalf of the residents of the country or its citizens.

I wonder how some people make

it when the roads seem so impassable in some places. I swear a number of road fatalities must be due to the condition of our streets.

It’s a shame we can’t sue the Government for damage to our vehicles due to the condition of the roads, which are directly responsible trying to navigate our way through a real life obstacle course.

This letter may seem funny to some, but it’s a very serious matter that must be dealt with as a matter of urgency and I don’t mean packing potholes with tar that washes away at a drizzle of rain.

For our lives and safety, the value of our investments and future investments something needs to be done!

Euwonka Selver Long Bay, Providenciales

Thank you sponsors Dear Editor, Seven Stars Resort would like to thank the following for their support of the Turks and Caicos’ Aids Awareness Foundation and World Aids Day. Main sponsors Goldsmiths, Gilley’s Enterprises, DJ Dayoh and Shout Media.

It is with the help of these wonderful sponsors that Seven Stars Resort was able to hold a spectacular

event to help raise Aids awareness.

Additionally, through the help of these sponsors Seven Stars Resort continued its support of the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre – holding a silent auction, which helped to raise additional funds for the children of the centre.

Thank you, Seven Stars Resort team

I miss the TCI Dear Editor, I miss the TCI. I miss the sunshine, the friendly people, the laughter, the characters, the fresh fish, conch, swimming, sailing, Giggles, Garam, bumpy rides Ernie, all my mates Jack, CJ, Orrin, Sebby, Zarek, Patrick, Jessie, Ella, Sameer and all of my big mates Hubert, Gilley, Wes and John at Hemingways, Derek at the movie theatre, Owen, Jai, Phil, everybody really.

You know they say you don’t know what you’ve got until its gone and that is very true.

I really do miss all you guys. My

Goldsmith’s donates generously to the Turks and Caicos Aids Awareness Foundation Fundraiser’s silent auction

dad tells me the TCI is opening a tourist office in Baker Street. I could help out there.

Baker Street is famous for Sherlock Holmes. Now it can be famous for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Sherlock Holmes is fictional. The TCI is very real, beautiful and real. I would love to show the tourists how beautiful our Islands are and how great are our people.

Have a great Christmas and a very happy new year.

Charlie McKnight (age 13) England

COMMENTARY

Year ending thoughts WITH the world apprehensive and ready to make major adjustments after a disturbing score of years bridging the 20 and 21st centuries, seniors of my era look backwards to what worked in the past.

Further we are concerned that today’s voters seem dedicated to ignoring the lessons of history.

The end of the year holidays give us a welcome return to what really counts. The values that family and friends bring to round out our lives.

With Yvette’s and my parents having gone to their reward it is time to sit back and savour being senior members of our family and community.

We hosted a Conch Bar

children’s party the weekend before school was dismissed.

Watching the kids have the kind of fun pre-teens enjoy was a kind of balm for seniors not available from a pharmacy.

We fondly remember our own pre-teen holiday travel trip on a steam train then later business trips on DC-3s and the first commercial jets.

Christmas in Cleveland, Detroit, Atlanta, Ft Lauderdale and now well over a decade of the TCI. Would we love to relive some of the Christmas seasons of our past? Yes but only as we remember them.

Our personal holidays excluded the world outside which was on fire.

We lived through World War 2, the

Korean and Vietnam wars. The 9:11 shocker was a wakeup call that only began this new era.

At nine years of age we received our first bicycle for Christmas. It was a Roadmaster manufactured right in our home town of Cleveland and purchased by ma from a local bike shop.

We waited months for the snow to melt before trying it out!

This year we shipped bikes home to the TCI for our youngsters here.

They were manufactured in China and purchased from Walmart.

The parade of life moves on and while we appreciate the modern cars, planes, cell phones and computers of today we wonder how the big democracies of the USA and Britain can long survive without a broad

By David Tapfer

David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011

manufacturing base.

The export of old dollars and pounds cannot last forever.

This problem has haunted the TCI from the beginning of development.

Dollars generated here are quickly sent overseas by resort owners, foreign workers, utility companies and now healthcare providers.

The few dollars that remain

skimmed off by manoeuvring politicians.

The ordinary citizen survives as they did in pre-development days. Canned corn beef and rice is now the culture because conch has also be over exported.

These are problems that will challenge a real government if we can ever get back to electing one.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Adams on track for police chief role ACTING Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams may be considered for the role of Commissioner when the next chief’s term is up.

That’s according to Governor Peter Beckingham who said he could “see no reason at all why he shouldn’t be in the frame in the future”.

Adams was suspended from his role for several months as the TCI Integrity Commission investigated allegations of corruption.

He returned to work on Monday, December 8, after he was cleared of all charges.

Speaking at a press conference at the Premier’s Office on Wednesday, December 10, Beckingham said that while he is pleased with the appointment of James Smith he would definitely like to see someone internally eventually taking over.

“Clearly it would have been very difficult with the Deputy Commissioner [Adams] having being suspended for a considerable period of time.”

He said that as the contract with current Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar coming to an end it was important to continue the recruitment process.

“We had to go ahead and recruit without knowing the result of the court case so it was impossible to consider the then deputy or now deputy.

“But I see no reason at all why he shouldn’t be in the frame in the future and I’m sure Mr Smith

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Acting Deputy Commissioner Of Police Rodney Adams

would also consider that too.”

Earlier this month the Governor announced that a new Commissioner of Police had been appointed to take over the position when Colin Farquhar completes his second term in February.

Smith is a highly respected police officer with almost 40 years of service in variety of policing environments and legal jurisdictions including Scotland, England, Hong Kong and the Caribbean.

He will be in charge of 280 officers and staff at the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) spread throughout the Islands.

“I’m very pleased to make the announcement,” Beckingham said, “we were convinced that Mr Smith was the best person for the job.”

He added that he is “very confident” that with his experience he will be able to step into the current commissioner’s shoes.

Governor talks about international relations THE TCI is now one of the most popular and respected Caribbean destinations, Governor Peter Beckingham said this week.

In his latest blog entry on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website he spoke about his recent visit to the UK overseas territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) in London.

He said that the country is making its mark internationally and urged everyone to continue their efforts to maintain its reputation.

This week’s blog published on Wednesday (December 17) was entitled ‘TCI playing its part in international meeting of overseas territories’.

Beckingham explained that in early December he and Premier Rufus Ewing represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at the JMC. “This has now become firmly established as one of the key building blocks of relations among the territories and with the UK government,” he said, adding that this year’s meeting was no exception.

Attendees included premiers or elected representatives of all the inhabited territories - Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and the TCI. “The meeting provided an

Governor Peter Beckingham

opportunity to take stock of the relationships, to celebrate past successes and map out a programme of joint activity for the year ahead,” the Governor wrote.

It was also an important opportunity for territory leaders to engage directly with representatives from across the British government.

“The Premier and I were able, in joint and individual meetings, to underline the interests of the Turks and Caicos.”

With Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the FCO James Duddridge MP the Premier stressed the importance of the UK continuing to provide a security umbrella against illegal migration, fishing and drug trafficking.

The TCI attendees also discussed the possibilities of the Royal Navy providing some additional support, Beckingham explained.

The Premier and International Development Minister, Desmond

Swayne, went through the measures the Government had in place to return TCI to the commercial bond market by 2016.

“Both ministers were optimistic that we should be in a strong position, given the robust tourism figures we have, of persuading the banks of TCI’s continuing and long term credit worthiness,” the Governor wrote.

Ewing and Beckingham also had the opportunity to meet a range of investors, tourism operators, and TCI residents both in London, and on the way back, in New York.

“These occasions were a great chance to underline to key business leaders the strong brand TCI now represents to the North American and, increasingly, European markets.

“One of the most rewarding and encouraging moments was in New York, when the owner of one of the city’s most successful island tour operators, without any prompting, joined the Premier and me in extolling TCI as one of the most popular and respected prestigious Caribbean islands.”

He said that many people in the TCI have worked hard and patiently for years to achieve that sort of accolade.

“Congratulations to all of them. It is the task of all of us, from the police and immigration officers who are the first to greet arrivals, to the barmen, taxi drivers and tour operators who engage with our visitors throughout their stay, to ensure that high reputation remains.”

Governor Peter Beckingham’s blogs can be read in full at www. blogs.fco.gov.uk/peterbeckingham.

The Towers of Babel Art is our language

For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com

Unshackle your mind

By Hezron

Unshackle your mind Unshackle your mind Unshackle your mind Oseta Jolly put on a Christmas concert at the Church of God Prophecy in Blue Hills

Oseta Jolly students enjoy Christmas concert MORE than 100 students from Oseta Jolly Primary School filled up the Church of God of Prophecy in Blue Hills, as they celebrated their Christmas concert on Wednesday, December 10.

Serving as chairperson for the event was marketing manager for Lime TCI Rachel Harvey.

Opening remarks were brought by the principal Rachel Handfield and the welcome message was read

by Rachel Simons.

Some of the pieces performed included song ‘Do you hear what I hear?’ performed by the school

choir, a dance selection by teachers and a song by a group of grade six students.

There were gift presentations that were made by the school prefects.

Long-time resident of the Blue Hills community Marion Williams had the crowd all ears when she spoke about Christmas long ago in the TCI. She explained to the students and the audience that growing up back in the day was really rough and that they should consider themselves blessed, because the of the privileges that they have now.

“When our parents got up in the mornings, they would make some fried cake or some soft grits with some sugar.

“We used to eat rice every Sunday, because we couldn’t afford rice during the week.

“We came up on the rough side of the mountains, but you all have Christmas round and round.

“I tell my children sometimes, y’all have it too good.”

This message made a lot of the teachers reflect on what growing up was like for their parents. (DAISY HANDFIELD)

We need to be constantly growing and our minds ever flowing, mentally focused negativity out of focus, like cheap camera lens.

Only then can we achieve what should be rightfully given, race car driven pass chequered flags, rightly earned like one in ten thousand sperm, failure is not an option.

Approach this life with discretion, birth your goals while re-birthing your whole, building your soul, subtracting yourself from the world and become your whole; cause some of us walk around with holes in our soles forgetting our souls need filling.

Reach your peers; the living, forget fears, shed your tears,

and don’t clog your ears.

This is what I need you to hear, need you to feel, like a derelict left in darkness to reflect upon the soundtrack of your life, I need you to be free Unshackle your mind Unshackle your mind Unshackle your mind

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Parliament agrees to $5.4m additional spending THE HOUSE of Assembly on Thursday (December 18) passed a bill for $5,496,427 to be put towards additional Government spending for the current financial year (2014/2015).

The Supplementary Appropriations Bill will cover areas where not enough money was allocated in the budget, until the year comes to an end on March 31, 2015.

This is the first supplementary bill presented to the House for the financial year.

Presenting the bill for debate in the assembly, Minister of Finance Washington Misick said that the Government has every intention of presenting the Appropriations Bill (Budget) for 2015/2016 on time.

“This is providing the Opposition works along with the Government, and then there would be no need for a second supplementary bill,” he added.

For the last two years, the budget has been delayed for months, only passing in July when it is expected to cover Government spending from

April 1 of every year.

The Opposition members are still critical of the Government for underallocating money to the various departments in the country’s budget.

Opposition appointed member Clarence Selver pointed that the current Government has never put forward a budget that anyone can rely on.

“They always put forward unrealistic budgets, which despite concerns from the Opposition that the allocations were not enough, they assured that the allocations are enough.”

Selver added that they prefer to keep passing a budget with a token figure just to say they have a budget even though they are fully aware that what is being budgeted cannot get the job done.

However, Misick, during his wrap up of the debate said that the Government came back to the House for more money because they made a budget that was representative of the economic state of the country at that time.

He added that the good performance of the economy since then allows the Government to now allocate money to those areas where not enough money was allocated in the budget.

“The economy is at last becoming healthy, the Government has a surplus that we are not ashamed of, we are paying our way in the world, when you look around in the region, when you look around in the world Turks and Caicos is a blessed country.

“There aren’t many countries in the world who can say they have a surplus and yet there are structural changes to the economy that we have to make to show that no one goes to sleep hungry,” he said.

He stated that the Supplementary Appropriations Bill, both in terms of recurrent and the capital budget, speaks to the commitment that the Government continues to make to the people.

The money will be taken from the Consolidated Fund. (DELANA ISLES)

‘There is still much to do’ - Education Minister ENHANCING the sense of safety and security at schools, creating a fit and moving nation and producing lively public libraries.

Those are some of the aims of the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services for the coming year.

During her comprehensive ministerial speech in the House of Assembly on Monday (December 15) Akierra Missick spoke of her ministry’s latest achievements and plans for the future.

Over 16 pages she talked about each department and the progress made during 2014.

Some highlights she spoke of included infrastructure projects, programming projects and policy reviews.

She described how public schools had become safer with less major incidents, and school infrastructure projects have been awarded to bidders.

The minister explained that access to primary schools and the problem of overcrowding is being addressed.

She thanked education partners, praised students for their successes and welcomed new staff members.

Missick then talked about the new projects within the Youth Department, libraries and sports.

“I have tried to condense the year into these few pages as a part of my goal to continually keep this House and the people of my country informed about my efforts within my ministry to conduct the business I have been charged to do,” she said.

“We have done much, and we do recognise that there is still much to do.”

Missick concluded her speech by talking in brief about her plans for the upcoming year.

“We want to finalise our policies and procedures and be able to adequately address our approach to special education, technical and vocational education, primary education and indeed all levels of education,” she said.

“We want to enhance the sense of safety and security at schools, and

we want a fit and moving nation - and so we aim to strengthen our sports programmes, build access in all communities for sports programmes and strengthen our partnerships with our sporting bodies.”

She stressed the need for lively public libraries that are still able to respond to the needs of all ages.

“We want our public libraries to provide opportunity for those who may have limited access to the internet, for book clubs who want to meet, authors who can have book signings and readings, and the public in general who want access

to all types of books and research material.”

The minister said that young people must have avenues to have their voices heard and programmes through which they can grow and develop.

“All our efforts, are in pursuit of the realisation of those goals. And so we are committed and will continue to update all of us as on a regular basis.”

Finally she wished the members of parliament, the members of her constituency, and the entire Turks and Caicos Islands a very Merry Christmas and the very best for 2015.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Constitution review report is out continued FROM  9

recommend.”

Institutions protecting good governance Under this subhead, the report recommended that a review of the Integrity Commission Ordinance as it relates to these several entities should be conducted.

Crown land With respect to the portfolio of Crown land, the recommendation is that it be placed under the responsibility of a minister, the report reads.

“It may very well be that provisions of the ordinance need to be revisited. With a change of authority, such may be the case.”

Miscellaneous The report further reads that in Section 132, which relates to the status of a Turks and Caicos Islander, the committee recommended that in subsection 3(a) (i) and (ii) the words beginning ‘…or a British citizen’ and ending ‘…for a period of at least ten years,’ should be deleted.

Meanwhile, the review committee also made a number of recommendations that were outside of their terms of reference.

The report states that during the public sessions there were a few matters that were raised that are worthy of mention, one of which is that of the Labour Tribunal.

It was felt in some quarters that the subject of the Labour Tribunal should be included in the constitution under the part “institutions protecting good governance,” but committee members disagree, the report read.

“It was however conceded that the work of the tribunal is essential to the economic health of the community, and more attention should be devoted to its

operation.

A referendum on this exercise or alternatively an independence referendum was proposed.

The report adds that with respect to a referendum on this exercise after its conclusion, it was pointed out that this was not practical, given the fact that there are many issues in a constitution that a referendum would have to address.

“With respect to a referendum on independence, this is a matter for the political hierarchy, and not within our terms of reference,” the committee reported.

Committee members were Akeira Missick, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services, Donhue Gardiner, Minister of Border Control and Labour, Sharlene Robinson, Leader of the Opposition, Sean Astwood, elected member for Five Cays, Providenciales, Carlos Simons, Queen’s Counsel, Ashwood Forbes, attorney at law, and Daniel Malcolm as chairman of the committee.

Public meetings were held in Grand Turk, Salt Cay, Providenciales, Bottle Creek, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, Kew, North Caicos, and South Caicos.

In all, approximately 269 persons attended these meetings, the committee reported.

Private meetings were held with the following people Pastors Fraternal, Grand Turk, Complaints Commissioner, chairman and members of the Public Service Commission, and Pastor Bradley Handfield.

Written submissions were received from Soroptimist International, Grand Turk, Baptist Union, Royal Robinson, MBE, Edric Potter, former Commissioner of Police, Anand Heeraman, Native Men Fellowship, Providenciales, Andrew Cater and CON.

Changes to Grand Turk Cruise Centre approved THE GOVERNMENT is set to appoint a project manager to oversee a two year project which will see tour operators and vendors in Grand Turk being centralised.

A post Cabinet statement from the Governor’s Office on Thursday, December 11, stated that the Ministry of Finance will be drafting the terms of reference for the appointment of the manager through the infrastructure fund.

Cabinet also agreed to a recommendation to have a permanent police presence in the cruise terminal beach areas of Grand Turk, the statement read.

The Tourist Board will also be redeveloping its tourism booth through the infrastructure fund in the cruise terminal.

And the Crown Land Unit will be identifying a location for tour operators including establishment of a tour operator and vendors’ facility, a Tourist Board help desk and taxi despatch centre.

Meanwhile, other issues dealt with at the Wednesday Cabinet meeting included the approval for designing a water osmosis plant in Salt Cay, as well as repairs to Five Cays Road.

Cabinet also approved a business application submitted by Turks Fleet

The Crown Land Unit will be identifying a location for tour operators including establishment of a tour operator and vendors’ facility, a Tourist Board help desk and taxi despatch centre.

Limited which sought permission to operate in a restricted business activity under the Business Licensing (Amendment) (No.3) Regulations 2014.

The limited partnership ordinance, companies’ ordinances, mutual funds ordinance and trademarks ordinance would be referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers and Financial Services Commission with a view to

including these amendments within the draft Companies’ Ordinance and subsequent legislation, the statement read.

Approval was also given for an application for long lease over parcel 60602/204, 205, 340 and road subject to the provisions of the Crown Land Ordinance.

Cabinet also approved application for Crown land in South Suburb,

Grand Turk, subject to the provisions of the Crown Land Ordinance.

Agreement was reached for the tendering of works for dredging of a navigational channel at Sandy Point, North Caicos, so it would be open for safe use by mariners.

Cabinet further approved the formation and recognition of the Turks and Caicos Islands Fishing Co-operative Inc. The body also approved the fast track booth in Providenciales for diplomats.

A report was submitted to Cabinet for the proposed amendments to the National Parks Ordinance, and the body undertook to review the National Parks Committee’s recommendations and thereafter present the report for consultation.

Meanwhile, Governor Peter Beckingham is set to liaise with officials in the Dominican Republic to discuss a common fisheries protection policy to protect TCI waters.

Additionally, Cabinet gave recognition to the problems recently faced by Government departments and offices on Front Street, Grand Turk, and will look to devise a short term and long term strategy to dealing with the storm surge issues.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

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Girls at the South Caicos primary school delivering a sweet rendition of a Christmas song

Gifts for the children compliments of Do it Centre

Pretty little misses thrilled the crowd with their dance moves

Santa Claus meeting the kids at the Iris Stubbs Primary School in South Caicos

Teachers at the Iris Stubbs Primary performing a Christmas skit

Grace Bay Foundation spreads Christmas cheer in South Caicos

CHRISTMAS came a few weeks earlier for the little tots at the Iris Stubbs Primary School in South Caicos.

In its annual Christmas drive to spread cheer and goodwill during the festive season, the Grace Bay Foundation joined

with Do it Centre, LIME, West Bay Club and CCIB to put smiles on several little faces in the sister island.

Santa Claus gave out hugs, kisses and bags stuffed with goodies to the students, who showed their

appreciation with several wonderful and talented performances of song and dance.

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December 20 – January 2, 2015

North Caicos hotel celebrates 30 years

By Marguerite Anderson NESTLED by the flawlessly white sandy shoreline of Pelican Beach Drive in Whitby, the Pelican Beach Hotel has for 30 years been the resting spot for countless tourists and guests who have continually been beckoned to the unspoilt island of North Caicos.

In commemoration of its 30th year since the hotel was opened, owner and proprietor Clifford Gardiner and his wife Susie Gardiner held a twoday celebration which culminated in a spectacular display of fireworks on the beach.

The anniversary celebration lasted from 3pm until 10pm on Friday, November 28, and Saturday November 29.

The events kicked-off with a formal opening ceremony on Friday, with Gardiner and other select speakers sharing the journey of the hotel since its inception.

Chairperson for the event was Heather Urfrey.

The celebration began outdoors, however, inclement weather in the late afternoon on Friday saw the proceeding relocated to the indoors of the hotel.

This did not dampen the spirits of the patrons who enjoyed the music, the food and the ambiance of the warm, communal spirit of North Caicos.

Patrons had the choice of either

Celebrating the anniversary of Pelican Beach Hotel (Photo by Donna Gardiner)

feasting indoor at the formal dining area or relaxing outdoors by the Barracuda Beach Bar, as they enjoyed their meals.

District Commissioner of North and Middle Caicos, Donna Gardiner, who is also the daughter of Clifford and Susie Gardiner, photographed the smiling guests as they poured in for the afternoon’s

event.

Tourists, friends, distinguished guests including Premier Rufus Ewing, and patrons visiting from neighbouring islands enjoyed the festivities with live entertainment

by Lovey Forbes and his Combina Ripsaw Band.

They had the audience riveting to the beat of island music and country

tunes.

Maggie Anderson was one of the performers at the two-day event while other guest artists for Saturday night’s entertainment package included Mr Saxman, Edwin Forbes, and talented male vocalist Stafford Salmon.

Both Salmon and Anderson entertained the audience with a

range of old-hits tunes in a duo performance on Saturday.

They were backed by the dynamic sound of the Raymond Gardiner High School Band.

The rain ended just in time to have fireworks setting the sky ablaze in a crescendo of excited cheers from those who were there to share in the celebration.

Junior Achievement programme holds first trade show

By Kandida Hariraj THE JUNIOR Achievement programme, aimed at helping to prepare young people for the real world by showing them how to generate wealth and effectively manage it, held their first trade show last Saturday, December 13.

Scotiabank’s parking lot in Grace Bay, Providenciales, was transformed with booths of the various groups displaying and selling their products.

Tie dyed items, custom made jewellery, customised bracelets, treats, cakes and more, made by group members were on sale to the public.

Since the Junior Achievement launch in September, 11 groups have been formed - six in Providenciales, two in Grand Turk, two in South Caicos and one in North Caicos.

Cathrice Williams, a board member of Junior Achievement said that the outcome was very good so far and that the organising committee was very pleased.

“They students have been working very hard and of course have to face issues like any normal business but we’re proud of them,” she said.

Junior Achievement TCI is a member of Junior Achievement worldwide, an organisation dedicated to educating students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy through hands-on programmes.

It provides young people aged 15 to 19 with learning experiences designed to inspire and prepare them for success in the global economy.

For the past two years ago, a similar UK based programme called

Young Enterprise was applied here in the TCI but the Junior Achievement programme was implemented this year since it is more affiliated with the region and the Americas, Williams said.

Also different this year, she said, is that the corporate sponsors have provided an advisor to work along with the groups as opposed to last year when they used link teachers and business advisors.

Each corporate sponsor assigned an advisor to work along with a group of students to assist them with their business venture through the year.

The programme started in September and will conclude in May. There will be another trade fair in March and a speech competition will also be incorporated before the finals in May. During Saturday’s showcase the teams made a business presentation and were judged on areas including communication, company administration, marketing, sales, problem solving, product development and teamwork.

However, three teams were unprepared and did not set up a booth or make a public presentation.

At the end of the programme the young adults will not win on the most profits made but on what was learnt as individuals and a team and how problems were solved to ensure the business was successful.

In Providenciales the participating groups and their sponsors include Island Expressions with Scotiabank TCI, Exquisite One with Financial Services Commission, Providenciales, Urban Accessories with KPMG, Island Treasures with

Junior Achievement groups display and sell their products in first trade fair

Scotiabank’s sponsored team, Island Expressions awaits customers

Grace Bay Car Rental, Island Gems with Fortis and Projetech sponsors a group that did not display on Saturday.

In Grand Turk the groups are

Bake'd with LapelsTCI, and Haven Artistry with the Financial Services Commission, Grand Turk.

The single North Caicos group is Pastry Cravers with District

Commissioner Donna Gardiner and in South Caicos the two groups did not display on Saturday but are sponsored by Rev John Malcolm and Emily Saunders.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 19

National Trust rep attends iguana workshop HEAD warden from the TCI National Trust jetted off to the Bahamas this week to attend a workshop on iguana monitoring.

Alyx Williams and newly trained warden T’jon Wilson went to San Salvador for the weeklong event which started on Monday (December 15).

The Bahamas National Trust hosted the event which was organised by the Management of Protected Areas to Support Sustainable Economics (MPASSE) project – part funded by the European Union.

The project aims to improve institutional capacity and strengthen each organisation’s

ability to manage heritage sites and deliver conservation management techniques for the benefits of present and future generations.

The TCI National Trust is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation dedicated to the preservation of the cultural, historic and natural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It was founded in 1992 after the passage of enabling legislation by the TCI Government.

The National Trust is governed by an elected council which includes representatives from all the inhabited islands in the TCI. The enabling legislation gives the trust a wide variety of powers.

Staff from the civil service achieved academic success this year

Health minister visits department offices STAFF members at several offices within the Ministry of Health and Human Services received a visit from the minister this month.

Porsha Stubbs Smith took time out to travel to various islands in the TCI as part of her year-end tour.

The aim of the tour, which began on December 6, was to assess the facilities and to ensure that departments are fully equipped with the necessary equipment.

Stubbs Smith was accompanied by Desiree Lewis, Permanent Secretary for Health and Human Services, and the heads of departments for each unit.

In a press release on Tuesday (December 16) the minister said: “It was good to be able to visit with all the staff members, patients, heads of departments and various personnel

involved with doing such a great job within the Ministry of Health and Human Services and TCIG. “Touring the islands like this will assist greatly with the strategic planning for the Ministry and gives us the opportunity to hear and address concerns involved in our operations.”

She added that based on what she has seen and heard so far, she feels confident that the Government is able to take immediate action to address any concerns that have been raised.

Stubbs Smith visited South Caicos, North Caicos, Middle Caicos and some departments on Grand Turk and Providenciales.

She will reconvene her island visits in January 2015 to tour those departments that were not accessible during December.

Deputy Governor spotlights academic success IN HER monthly spotlight of the civil service, Deputy Governor Anya Williams shone the light upon 26 staff members who recently received degrees.

They demonstrated their commitment to personal and professional improvement, Williams said in a press release on Thursday, December 11.

The group consists of 19 civil servants and seven staff from statutory bodies who graduated with bachelors and associate degrees in education, primary education and business studies at the TCI Community College.

“We are committed to making the public service a truly vocational career that provides the best possible service to the people of this country,” Williams said.

“The degree courses chosen by

our people reflect our joint ambitions, providing real professional development and, in some instances, allowing people to retrain for new careers that help address areas where we need more resource, such as in teaching.”

“This was a proud moment for the civil service, especially for valedictorian Tanya Williams-Taylor who works as a personal assistant Ministry of Government Support Services.

“This supports our development initiatives to build capacity and enhance skills across Government and we are proud, therefore, to celebrate the success of these hardworking individuals.”

The Deputy Governor, Washington Misick, acting Premier and Minister of Finance, Trade and Investment, and George Lightbourne, Minister

of Government Support Services attended the graduation.

It marked the 20th anniversary of the college, graduates from its first bachelors programme and also its largest matriculation class of 109 students to date.

As the final nominees for 2014, this spotlight closes the programme for the year.

It was launched in January by the Office of the Deputy Governor in order to bring more positive awareness to the role and contributions of staff across Government.

The programme throughout the year paid special recognition to TCIG’s doctors, principals, teachers, social workers and staff of the Treasury, Project Management Division and the Immigration Task Force.

Digicel staff members Delicia Elliott and Ava-Dayne Fulford deliver gifts to the excited students

Pupils get some early Christmas gifts

Look out for resident of 26 years Captain Bill, spreading good cheer in Providenciales with his Christmas car. The vehicle, which he has decorated every year for five years, has moving Christmas decorations, blows snow into the air and plays festive tunes.

STUDENTS at Doris Robinson Primary School in Middle Caicos were all smiles as they received some early Christmas gifts from Digicel last week.

On Thursday, December 11, staff members from the telecoms company delivered presents to both staff and pupils.

The annual Christmas visit has been a tradition now for over five years and has become something that the whole community looks forward to.

Principal Keisha Mills said: “We appreciate the work that Digicel does for us and especially at Christmas, the children are made to feel extra special.

“The entire community appreciates the gesture.”

Doris Robinson Primary School, which currently has an enrolment of 16 students, is one of Digicel’s adopted schools.

The company’s hot lunch programme ensures that the students are fed well every day while at

school.

Digicel head of marketing Ava-Dayne Fulford said: “Digicel is pleased to have an ongoing programme that benefits the students of Doris Robinson throughout the year.

“However we all know that Christmas is extra special so we make an extra effort to bring some cheer to these students and they have all grown to expect this of us and we are pleased to always deliver.”

Lifestyle...

20

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

Growing basil THIS is the easiest herb to grow on Turks and Caicos Islands.

You know that basil has been known and grown since ancient times? Basil made its way to Europe by the Middle Ages and to England and America in the mid-17th century, where it was used mainly medicinally.

It was not until the 19th century that basil became the ever-present component of herb gardens that it is today.

There are more than 30 different species of basil, but the most commonly grown are O basilicum and its subspecies.

The range of basils available is the result of the variability of the species, basilicum.

The four basic types of garden basils are the familiar sweet green basil, dwarf green basil, purpleleaved basil, and scented leaf basil.

Sweet basil (O basilicum) grows about 2 feet tall. It has rather large leaves, two to three inches long, and produces white flower spikes. It is the most widely grown.

Purple-leaved basils (O b purpurescens) are very ornamental.

Dark opal (1962 All-America Selections winner), purple ruffles (1987 AAS winner) and red rubin (with solid purple leaves, an improved strain of dark opal) are three of the most popular varieties.

These basils tend to have ruffled, frilled, or deeply cut leaves, which

are very pungent; they produce deep pink to lavender-purple flowers.

Scented-leaf basils bring additional aromas to the basic cloveanise of sweet basil.

Lemon basil (O americanum, O basilicum var citriodorum) has a very distinct lemon flavour.

The leaves are grayish green, the flowers white. The leaves of cinnamon basil have a spicy cinnamon flavour.

Dwarf basil (O b minimum) is also known as bush or fine green basil. Its compact growth reaches 10 to 12 inches high. The leaves are small, about 1/2 inch long, and flowers are white.

Spicy globe and green bouquet are well-known dwarf types.

Basil needs six to eight hours of sun, it benefits from afternoon shade, with less sun, the plants have a tendency to get ‘leggy’.

Space at the distance recommended on the label, which is generally 12 to 18 inches apart.

Basil likes rich, moist, but well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 7. Because basil is harvested continually for lots of leaves, it needs a little fertiliser.

Although the flower spikes are attractive, it is recommended to cut them off as they deplete the plants’ energy resulting in fewer leaves.

The leaves have the best flavour, when they are harvested before the plants flower.

Cut whole stems rather than individual leaves, especially if you want to use the leaves as a garnish

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Look after your kids this Christmas OVER the festive holidays there will be many businesses that will strive to create a warm, inviting, fun environment for children.

However, the safety and well-being of children at public events and places is of serious concern.

It is my intention to enlist the cooperation of parents and other adults responsible for children to ensure that public outings be a safe and pleasant experience for all.

Parents are responsible for the behaviour of their children not just at home but also while they are in public.

Many Government places such as a public library or Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex have employees that are committed to helping children with activities related to the relevant Government public places.

However, it is not the Government staff’s responsibility to serve as babysitters or disciplinarians.

By Audley Astwood Audley, a former police detective and broadcaster, is currently the press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. His main focus is on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.

Parents are still responsible for the actions and the well-being of their children.

Responsibility for the welfare and the behaviour of children in public rests with the parent/guardian or an assigned chaperone.

Though at Government places, staff will always respond with care and concern, they cannot assume responsibility for children’s safety and comfort when they are unattended.

Staff may need to contact authorities such as the police either to assist with the enforcement of discipline or to ensure the safety of an unattended child.

Parents should not use public places or events as an alternative to day care. For safety’s sake, parents should make sure that their children are sufficiently mature before

allowing them to attend public places or events by themselves.

Parents should also realise that, even in their absence, they are legally responsible for their children’s behaviour.

The owners of business places or event holders are not responsible for the care and supervision of unaccompanied children prior to opening or after closing.

The owners of business places or event holders are also not responsible for children outside the building who await transportation or who are socialising.

Adults responsible for unattended school-age children at these business places or events should be aware of the hours in which they operate and make arrangements to meet the children on time.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR

Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs.

For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.

because they bruise easily.

Cutting whole stems is a tasty way of creating a bushy, compact plant -

cut just above a pair of lower leaves; the plant will produce new shoots at that point.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Lifestyle...

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Too much ‘stuff’ AS THE holiday festivities are almost upon us, most people will have done the majority of their gift buying and presents will be sitting under the many Christmas trees around the globe waiting to be opened in anticipation of smiling faces and thanks all around.

However, how much thought has been put into the gift? Has it been bought just for the sake and expectation of gift giving, just to be left standing unused in a cupboard with previous unwanted presents or is it something that is genuinely needed and will be loved and used to its full capacity?

Sadly Christmas is a time of too much spending and too much ‘stuff,’ most of which will be discarded quickly, adding to the vast pile of other ‘stuff’ in this society of consumerism which will eventually make its way to landfills and most disturbingly, the oceans.

New research recently published has estimated that there are at least

5.25 trillion pieces of plastic are in the ocean, weighing 269,000 tonnes.

To put that into perspective imagine an adult blue whale weighing between 100 and 150 tonnes.

Now imagine 2,150 of those blue whales. That is approximately the amount of plastic trash floating around our oceans, most of which is made up of discarded fishing gear, nets and other large debris but also includes lots of broken up pieces of plastic and microbeads from cosmetics.

Much of this plastic waste is totally unnecessary and can be reduced substantially by the choices we make when shopping.

Thinking before buying can make a huge difference to the ongoing problem of plastic pollution.

Choose glass packaging instead of plastic. Buy fruit and vegetables loose and avoid using produce bags and plastic grocery bags.

Consider giving the gift of experiences instead of more ‘stuff’.

Avoid single use plates, cups, utensils

Weekly Recipe Helen Barkworth-Knight is a teacher and qualified baker with a lifelong love for cooking for friends and family.

She is a mother to Owen, almost two, who has very particular tastes in all things, especially food.

Hence she has become an expert in hiding vegetables in all sorts of dishes!

German spiced almond meringue Christmas cookies INGREDIENTS • 2 egg whites • 2 cups confectioner’s sugar • 1 tsp lemon juice • Grated zest of 1 lemon • 2 ½ cups almond meal (ground almonds) • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground ginger METHOD • Preheat the oven to 320°F. Line a cookie sheet with baking parchment.

• Whisk the egg whites until foamy. This is best done with an electric whisk. Add in the teaspoon of lemon juice and whisk until soft peaks form.

• Slowly whisk in the confectioner’s sugar until the meringue goes stiff and glossy. Set the mixture aside.

• Put the almond meal, lemon zest, cinnamon and ginger into a large bowl and mix well. Mix in ¾ of the meringue mixture to make a soft, sticky dough.

• Turn out the dough onto a piece of baking parchment lightly dusted with confectioner’s sugar. Sprinkle on some more icing sugar, then place another piece of parchment on top and roll out the dough until it’s about ¼ inch thick. This is the easiest way to roll out this sticky dough.

• Peel off the top sheet of parchment and use a cookie cutter (stars are traditional, and very Christmassy) to cut out the cookies.

• If the cutter gets clogged up, just rinse it off in some water to help it cut cleanly.

• Place the cookies on the baking tray, then use the remaining ¼ of meringue mixture to spread a thin layer over the top of each cookie.

• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the meringue topping is set, but not browned.

• Yields about 30 depending on the size and shape of your cookie cutter.

21

ECO Tip  Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.

and straws when attending parties.

Buy a water filter for the tap rather than buy plastic bottles of water.

The beaches of the Turks and Caicos Islands are still relatively clean compared to many other areas around the world however things are

changing rapidly and more trash is being washed up onto our shores.

Just last month a group of eco minded residents cleaned a stretch of beach at North West Point.

I ran along the same stretch just the other day and wasn’t surprised

YOUR DIET  Tamika has a Master’s Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from Florida International University and is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA). She is currently executive director of Nutrition in Demand, a non-profit aimed at increasing awareness to health and healthy eating. For more information email tamikahandfield@yahoo.com or visit www.nutritionindemand.com. Call 242-3978 or 442-3978.

By Lynn Robinson

to see vast amounts of trash already accumulated in just a matter of weeks.

We can make a difference to this world by making better choices.

Please make that choice before it’s too late.

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Forget about the scale and aim for wellness in 2015 SOME people spend so much time focusing on the number the scale displays but in reality that number is just that, a number on the scale.

It doesn’t tell the whole story nor does it give the bigger picture.

The bigger picture includes everything you have achieved or have gotten so much better at since starting your journey to wellness.

It may include achievements such as, being able to run nonstop for three minutes instead of 30 seconds, eating breakfast every morning, drinking more water, being able to do more reps in the gym or making better food choices instead of only eating to please the palate.

These achievements may seem insignificant to others but are very important to you. And, that’s the beauty of it; your journey to wellness

will not look like anybody else’s.

You do not have to compare yourself to anyone, the only comparison you are making is where you are now to where you were at the beginning of 2014.

Achieving overall wellness is a journey, not a destination.

Consider selecting a few of the wellness goals given below for your personal journey in 2015.

A food wellness goal: Cutting back on sweets. This is a common one but also a ‘not so easy’ one because you may not know where to start.

Try reducing the amount of sweets you eat by half each time. For example, instead of two teaspoons of sugar in your tea, use one or instead of a regular size Snickers bar, eat a mini.

You will be getting much less

calories and saturated fat but still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Eventually you may be able to skip the candy bar altogether.

A physical activity wellness goal: Incorporate strength training into your workout routine at least two times per week.

During the year, you may have lost weight so your goal has changed from weight loss but you now need to tone up and build muscle. Strength training will help with this.

A goal you may want to set, especially during the holiday season, is to maintain the weight you have lost and not regain any pounds.

A behavioural wellness goal: Reducing screen time, especially during meal times. Watching television, playing a video game or replying to emails help to distract you from the real task at hand… eating.

A distracted eater tends to eat more because you are not paying attention to cues of fullness and satisfaction.

It is supper easy to polish off an entire bag of potato chips when you are watching your favourite television show.

None of the above goals have weight loss as the ultimate objective; however, weight loss may be an added benefit on your way to achieving overall wellness.

While the scale is very important in helping you to keep track of where you are and to ensure you are not gaining, it does not recognise all of the non-scale achievements you are making to become a better you.

So, forget about the number on the scale and aim for overall wellness in 2015!

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Beautiful decorations were displayed all over the offices

Spreading good cheer with festive decorations MEMBERS of the public were invited to take a tour of the beautifully decorated National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) offices last week.

Children and adults were given free gifts of candy, cookies and cake as they were taken around the building at the Saltmills Plaza, Providenciales, to view the festive lights and displays.

The open days were part of the NHIB’s second annual decorating competition for all of its staff members.

Shenrika Robinson, NHIB human resources manager and office administrator, said: “Staff participation was 95 percent as they were all excited and involved in

the decorating process within their departments.”

Visitors judged their favourite department, marking on a tally sheet who they thought was the most creative, original or used their theme in the best way.

Robinson took the Weekly News around the offices on Friday (December 12) to photograph the displays.

She introduced each department before staff members gave a tour of their office describing the decorations, what they were made from and why they were chosen.

The departments that participated in the competition were customer service and registration, the

operations department, the accounts department, the compliance department, the administration department and the human resources and internal audit departments.

The winners were the customer service and registration department with their take on the theme ‘Tis the night before Christmas’.

They displayed the nativity scene complete with baby Jesus and dressed up as beautiful angels to tell the story.

Second place went to the operations department with the theme ‘Christmas in the village’.

The department put in a lot of effort with their home made decorations and excellent tour.

This young angel recited the meaning of Christmas to all visitors

High school students attend annual awards ceremony

BY DAISY HANDFIELD ONE hundred and seventeen students from eight secondary schools around the country qualified to be recognised at this year’s 18th annual National Academic Awards ceremony.

The top three performing students for the TCI were Leroy Penn of Wesley Methodist with 14 subjects, Natalia Williams of Helena J Robinson with 10 subjects and Devonte Smith of the British West Indies Collegiate with nine subjects.

These students were each awarded a scholarship worth $40,000 to study in any career

area in the United Kingdom or Caribbean Island of choice.

The basic criteria guiding their selection was that each student had to pass mathematics and English A as a part of a minimum of five subjects passed over four external examination sittings - two in fourth form and two in fifth form.

The awards ceremony was held at the Wesley Methodist School in Leeward Palms in Providenciales on Friday (December 12).

Parents, students and school administrators from the Government and private secondary schools joined officials from the Ministry of Education and the Education Department to

acknowledge all of these students’ achievements.

The theme for this year’s celebration was ‘Recognising triumphs; embracing excellence’.

Minister of Education Akierra Missick brought remarks on the efforts of the TCI’s students.

Missick said: “As we look at reviewing our systems in place with the National Examination Council, we should know that elsewhere in the Caribbean countries, our students are gaining 18 and 19 subjects.”

Missick said that students are challenging themselves and are willing to go the distance for an opportunity for a national award.

Staff put a lot of effort into their decorations this festive season

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Work together for a safer TCI A Christmas message from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force THE HOLIDAYS are a time when many people often leave their homes unattended for days at a time.

It is very important that certain steps must be taken before people leave their home each day for work or on a vacation.

Make sure that you always leave your home looking like it is being

lived in. It is also very important that you have a reliable friend or family member check your house each day.

Make sure all your windows are locked and that good proper working door locks are in place.

Each year people also leave messages on Facebook or other social networking sites that they will

be away on holidays making an open invitation for a burglar.

Other steps can be taken in protecting your house. It’s a very good idea to have your friend check it at different times of the day and also placing a TV or radio on a timer so that people will see a TV on or if they come to the door they can hear music playing.

During the holidays, steps should be taken as well to protect your vehicle from theft or the contents

inside it.

Take the time to place your Christmas items in a locked trunk and never leave the doors unlocked. It’s also important while shopping to never leave your purse in a shopping cart.

It only takes a few seconds to reach for an item when a thief could reach in and take your wallet from your purse.

If you lose your credit cards immediately report them to the credit card companies.

NEWS 23 Make sure that while you are shopping that you watch the clerk when you hand them your credit card and look at the receipt to make sure that you have been charged the proper amount.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) would like everyone to take a stand in crime prevention.

By working together we can reduce burglaries and thefts and make it safer for everyone.

On behalf of Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar and all the members of the RTCIPF we would like everyone to have a safe and happy holidays!

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Remember! Reclaim! Rejoice!

A Christmas message from the Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson.

ANOTHER year is drawing an end and while many wait for a new year with great anticipation, others are perhaps dreading it, not with a deliberate attitude to offend God for his gift of life but fearful for what it holds.

For many of us, this year has been a very difficult one for a variety of reasons.

Though we are too often unable to separate our challenges from blessings, I am calling on us to make every effort to this holiday season.

In spite of the fact that we as a people and as individuals have had many challenges, if we pause to think, we will remember the many blessings that were

bestowed on us.

I encourage though to only remember the challenge if we intend to reflect on God’s goodness as to how he helped us to face them while simultaneously remembering how things could have been worse.

Many of us have already begun to focus on what we do not have this season and have begun to dismiss this holiday season based on material

things or experiences we had for the year.

I wish to remind us that even in this if we wish to, we can find the true reason for the season. The true reason is not found in material things but in the gift of baby Jesus.

We have elected like many other countries to celebrate the birth of the Christ on December 25, 2014, and I am sure that we offend God when we make it about anything

else.

The birth of Christ signifies hope. His birth however is only the beginning of the glorious Gospel -an elaborate plan – born of the Virgin Mary, he would die a cruel death and rise again to reconcile man to God through a simple salvation plan that ask us to believe in our hearts, confess with our lips and repent.

It requires faith. This

Christmas let us focus on this hope. I charge us to remember the true reason for the season - that our lives can be transformed through salvation and our hope can be made eternal in heavenly things.

In time past in these Islands, there was less commercialisation and more sharing and giving.

Yes we would dress the homes in anticipation, sing carols and give gifts. This time was perhaps marked more by visiting family and friends and fellowshipping.

Let us teach our children.

Let us revisit our heritage and strengthen that which remains.

Let us pray for those who are less fortunate, let us pray and visit the sick, shut in, those who may be grieving and those who may be incarcerated.

I charge us to reclaim our traditions and let us remember our family, friends and our brothers and sisters whose lives await our touch.

Let us with grateful hearts approach these days ahead with changed hearts and minds. And let us purpose in ourselves that we will do all we can so that God will be glorified during this festive season.

As a people despite our challenges, we have so much we can be thankful for. This year this world faced great cruel human threat through wars and terrorism, deadly health challenges and threats with the spread of Ebola, great pollution, mysterious and tragic loss of lives through air travel, the abduction of children from school only to name a few of the stories that captured the world’s and our attention.

We remain a peaceful place despite our display of great passion when we differ and we do not face the other challenges as I have cited.

This is enough to be thankful for.

It is my prayer that we reflect on the many blessings given us by the hands of a faithful God, with the greatest being the gift of hope on the first Christmas morn.

As we reflect, let us do so with grateful hearts. Let us remember the true reason we celebrate, let us reclaim our traditions and let us rejoice in this hope eternal.

I wish to extend to all people, a healthy, happy, and Christ filled holiday season and on behalf of the Peoples’ Democratic Movement (PDM), from our homes to yours, a very Merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous new year.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Rekindle your relationship with Jesus Christ A Christmas message from the right Reverend Laish Boyd, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“AND suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth, goodwill to all people.” Luke 2:13 and 14 Many years ago I officiated at the funeral of a man in his nineties. In the cemetery, I was struck by the fact that his children (all of them in their seventies and late sixties) wept bitterly, several of them crying out for their father.

I remember chatting with a grandson of the deceased, a man in his mid-fifties, as we left the cemetery.

He was shaking and could not compose himself. He recounted to me that, in his 55 years, he had never seen his father cry, much less weep bitterly or become hysterical.

He spoke fondly of his late grandfather and his father. He told me that because of the impact that his grandfather had made on the family, he would live on forever in his everyday life even though his mortal remains were being buried that day.

In the crowd someone made a comment: “He jus’ an ol' man. Why dey cryin’ so much? His life over. Bury him and move on!”

That was far from the way that the family saw it: the burial was not just an end of a life, but more so the beginning of the rest of their lives, having had so great a legacy passed on to them.

I was deeply moved by the whole experience that day, and could not help but reflect on a number of things: The deceased must have been some father.

He obviously made a tremendous and fundamental impression on his children if in their sixties and seventies they could weep so inconsolably.

Often this is how it is in life: sometimes the greatest influences go unobserved or are not fully appreciated or understood in the first instance, but their impact is earthshaking and far-reaching.

We live in two beautiful countries, the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Human life is wonderful and so is actually being alive.

However, our current experience brings with it so many challenges that can cause us to forget that beauty: noise, busyness, pressure, demands, screens (smart phone, computer and television), fast-paced living, hatred, insensitivity, crime, violence, inhumanity, economic challenges, VAT, gaming,

disappointing leadership, numbness, disillusionment, emptiness, meaninglessness, loss of values, the questioning of faith and the absence of spirituality in some quarters.

But it is into the midst of all of this that the Christ-child comes.

Such challenges cause many people not to have a positive outlook. They do not see a loving God. They do not see a Christmas that speaks of the joy of the Christ-child, or of the hope he comes to bring.

They view Christmas only as a season for gifts, decorations, spending time with family and friends, and doing good to others.

They do not see it as a spiritual festival and the Christ-child is of no relevance or usefulness in the now.

Christmas is not about the burial of an old man who is dead, to be deposited in the cemetery. It is about a promise of God’s future for the world given in the life of a baby born to change the world.

A baby is a symbol of new life, hope, a positive future and endless possibilities. That is why Jesus, the Messiah, came into the world as an infant: to make the point that in God there are bright futures and endless possibilities promised to the human race.

All of these were delivered in the life, ministry and witness of Jesus about thirty years after his birth.

They were experienced by those who embraced him and his message, and who sought to live by his rules.

Jesus’ love, his peace and goodwill to all people are still seen today in the lives of those who seek to follow him and to live by his principles. This is what we are called to do this Christmas and every Christmas, and throughout the year.

What that means for us is that in the face of all of the challenges we cannot lose hope. We cannot believe that our two nations do not have a bright future.

We must believe that the Christ of Christmas is a promise of victory in spite of the crime, the cost of living, the inhumanity that some display or anything else that disturbs us.

Plan to welcome this celebration and to let it touch your heart and change your life.

Consider what life would be like WITHOUT occasions such as Christmas which remind us of giving, sharing, spending time together and celebrating what is good about life and living.

Ask yourself what Christmas means to you.

Imagine what would happen if you gave it its true meaning in your life.

Rekindle your personal

relationship with Jesus Christ.

Seek to show him forth in your life so that others may experience his love through you.

In this way Christmas will be a way of life and not just an event. This is what “peace on earth and good to all people” means.

On behalf of the Anglican Diocese, and on behalf of my own family, I wish you all a blessed Christmas and a happy new year.

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December 20 – January 2, 2015

The greatest optimism A Christmas message from Governor Peter Beckingham.

I’M DELIGHTED to bring everyone in Turks and Caicos Christmas greetings.

This is our second Christmas here – how time flies! – and will be even more special as we spend it again with our daughter and her husband, and their three month baby daughter. I’m sure she will be wearing again her Grand Turk dress.

And we heard, appropriately enough literally while we were marking Christmas with a service for Grand Turk’s senior citizens, that our second daughter had our first grandson!

Christmas is the occasion when we remember the birth of Jesus. Last year we had the excitement of visiting the holy site, Bethlehem, where Jesus was born in a poor man’s inn.

The church which marks the spot is now vast, and often filled with thousands of pilgrims making their way to the Holy Land. But the magic of Bethlehem remains, and there are still shepherds watching their flocks of sheep in the surrounding countryside.

As the shepherds and wise men came bearing gifts to the new born Jesus, so we at Christmas often exchange presents. I’m sure this Christmas will be no different.

But for some of our community I fear Christmas will bring precious little relief from the hardships, poverty, inadequate housing or ill health they face.

Jill and I have met some of these less well-off citizens during the past year.

I can still remember the struggles etched on the face of a grandmother taking her granddaughter to school in North Caicos, struggling to make ends meet.

So I hope the large majority of us who have comfortable homes and ample food will spare a moment to remember that not all our countrymen are so well off.

The organisations like the Salvation Army and the Rotary Clubs, and many of the thriving resorts, make a vital contribution for those to whom the growing prosperity of our Islands hasn’t yet reached.

Christmas and the turn of the year is also a time to reflect, and plan.

For Jill and me 2014 has been a memorable year here.

The Queen’s Baton Relay run

through Provo and Grand Turk caused great excitement, and Jill’s 100km ‘Footsteps4Good’ walk was a wonderfully successful way to raise a lot of lot of money for local communities and schools, and to engage with them.

We will both remember fondly talking to Her Majesty

the Queen about her visit to South Caicos and Grand Turk, and the happy memories she has of the warmth of the hospitality she received, and telling her about the excitement caused by the Commonwealth Games.

Looking forward, I am confident that we should barring unforeseen circumstances - continue to see Turks and Caicos Islands becoming one of the success stories of the overseas territories and the Caribbean.

The tourism figures are extremely strong, and as the Premier and I saw in London and New York this month the TCI’s reputation as a quality destination is riding high.

I hope we can all – the

Government, Opposition, public service and private business, Belongers and expatriates - work together to keep the TCI a country people yearn to visit. We certainly have no shortage of friends and family coming here next year.

I’m pleased to be sharing Christmas again with you all, and Jill and I look forward to meeting and engaging with as many of you as possible on visits to the islands, during the second edition of Footsteps4Good in October, and during our daily activities of working, shopping, running.

We are blessed to be living in such a privileged group of islands, for which I have the greatest optimism.

How to get that Christmas dinner just right RARELY is more pressure applied to a cooking performance than at Christmas - unless you happen to be a contestant on Masterchef, that is. Fundamentally, it is not the most complex of culinary tasks, but with such high expectations, it is worth taking measures to ensure you get it just right.

Get the best equipment Like with most things in life, the quality of the tools you use will impact on the quality of the finished result.

Although this may involve a relatively large investment, it will make cooking throughout the year a more pleasurable experience, too.

A high-quality and decent-sized roasting tin is a must and, on top of this, it is worth having a quality peeler, carving knife, gravy separators and turkey basters.

Not only will quality equipment help to ensure that the quality of the food is of a high standard, but it will also remove some of the stress.

When you have a cupboard full of parsnips and potatoes, for example, the last thing you want is a poor quality peeler.

It can also be crucial to ensure that you have enough tin foil and baking paper far in advance, as these often run out as Christmas approaches.

Prepare early Rather than frantically rushing around the supermarket at the last minute, it is worth writing your Christmas menu, along with a list of ingredients, long in advance.

This will ensure that you don’t forget, or miss out, any vital ingredients.

You can also choose a starter, or desserts, that you can prepare in advance. This will reduce stress on the day.

It also means that, if you are creating something slightly experimental for the first time, you can make mistakes and it’s not the end of the world.

It is also worth giving your kitchen a thorough clean before the culinary madness begins. Everyone works better in a clean and organised space.

If you start with a clean slate, there is less chance of everything becoming completely disorganised before the end of the festive period. (This article was downloaded from www.freefeatures.com.)

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December 20 – January 2, 2015

International Tribunal finds Belize in Breach of its Obligations under International Law and awards British Caribbean Bank Limited US$ 48 million in compensation An international tribunal, convened under the authority of the UK-Belize Bilateral Investment Treaty, and administered by the Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague, issued an award today in the investment treaty claim brought by the Bank arising out of the 2009 nationalisation of Belize Tel emed i a Limited, the main telecommunications utility in Belize. The Tribunal, in a unanimous decision, held that Belize unlawfully expropriated various loan interests held by the Bank. The Tribunal also held that Belize breached its international obligat ions to treat the Bank's investment in a fair and equitable manner.

The Bank has been awarded damages and full lega l costs. The total amount of compensation awarded including interest and costs is approximately US $48m.

I t is expected that a public copy of the Final Award will be made avai lable on the PCA website shortly.

With Appreciation at the Holidays With best wishes from our family to yours for a most memorable, magical holiday season.

Thanks for giving us so much to celebrate this year!

Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Telephone: 946-4898

December 20 – January 2, 2015

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Provo Primary end of term play sees great support

BY DAISY HANDFIELD GREAT support was seen from parents as the youngsters of Provo Primary School performed their end of term play on the school grounds on Wednesday, December 10.

The theme of the play was, ‘A Snowman at sunset’, which told the story of ten children who wished for snow each year.

Sent to sleep by the sugarplum fairies, the children dreamed of playing in deep, white snow and building snowmen.

As they awoke, the children were excited to discover that it really had snowed, but that they would have to learn to cooperate in order to build a snowman before the hot sun melted it all away.

The show included children from each of the four youngest classes,

from toddlers to kindergartners.

Vice principal Toby BarkworthKnight said that they were so proud of all of their pupils.

“Performing on stage, under the lights and in front of such a large audience is a great achievement for our young students.”

He said that the children ranged from five-year-olds down to sixteen months, but all had learned their parts and felt confident on stage.

The play included acting, dance and singing.

The vice principal said that the early years performance forms the final part of the school's successful show season.

“On Friday and Saturday night the school’s older children performed ‘Aladdin Trouble’ to packed audiences of over 300 people across the two nights.”

All kindergarten students were given speaking roles

Principal Alison Williams said that the Christmas shows have given their students the opportunity to share their talents and enthusiasm for performing for the past 23 years.

“The sense of accomplishment and pride that our pupils feel after performing further reinforces the value that the arts have in our broad and varied curriculum.”

All kindergarten students were given speaking roles and the final song included solo singing

by Matthew Thomas and Layla McAnally.

Import concessions granted for continued restoration of Turks Head Inn ONE of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ historical locations, the Turks Head Inn, is well on its way to full restoration.

On Wednesday, December 10, Cabinet approved a request from Trial Enterprises for import duty concession to assist with the renovation and restoration of the historic Grand Turk building.

Trail Enterprises in October

this year, struck a deal with the Government to own the rights to revive the building sitting, the company’s website states.

Built in 1840 as a dwelling house, the inn is now a hotel and restaurant located on Front Street.

The structure is one of the longest standing structures and known as the first hotel in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Youngsters warmed the hearts of attendees as they got into their roles

Keeping the Christmas buzz alive

EVEN for parents, Christmas time with young children can be a truly wonderful experience.

With the children still fully immersed within the magic of the Christmas story, it is virtually impossible for the parents to not get at least a little carried along on the wave of excitement too.

As the kids begin to get a little bit older, however, the magic can slowly start to disappear. This can be hugely disappointing for both children and parents alike. There are ways to keep the magic alive, however.

options Although there are some wonderful aspects of a traditional Christmas, there is nothing wrong with changing it a little, from time to time.

If the magic of Christmas has started to fade, it is worth looking at some alternative ideas.

Accept Christmas has changed The first and most important step is to simply accept that Christmas has changed, and that if it is still going to be magical, it needs to be different.

All families will go through that one transition year, where Christmas just isn’t the same anymore, but after that, it is time for a change.

Winter sun One option could be to replace giftgiving with a family holiday.

The costs will be similar and, when children get to a certain age, they will be more excited about a two-week break in the sun, than new clothes and computer games.

This will also give parents a chance to get away for a muchneeded holiday.

If you still want to be with the rest of your family, you could plan a large group vacation.

This will also reduce the costs, with shared accommodation and transport etc. being much cheaper.

Alternative Christmas

Spend Christmas day out

of the house Especially with teenagers, spending the whole day cooped-up at home can be too much.

Why not find a great pub or restaurant where you can spend at least part of the day, in order to get some much-needed space? You could also plan to meet friends and family there.

Ski trip A ski trip is the perfect treat at Christmas, if you can find some good snow. Although it can be expensive, if it comes at the cost of other presents, it will certainly be

affordable.

The benefit of a ski trip over a summer sun holiday is that there is always something for everyone to be doing.

It can be energetic, for those testosterone-riddled teenagers, or relaxed and laid-back for their parents.

There is nothing better than having a nice cold beer and some great food halfway up a piste.

Keep everybody happy Fundamentally, all of these above options revolve around the same premise, which is to keep everybody happy.

This can be increasingly complicated as children get older. It is also difficult if there is a big agegap between the children.

The best way to ensure that everyone is happy is to discuss it with the family and then seek a compromise.

These things rarely run 100 percent smoothly, but if you work together, you are sure to get the best results.

Most importantly, though, don’t forget your own enjoyment in a bid to please the children.

This article was downloaded from www.freefeatures.com.

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First woman bishop named for Church of England THE first woman bishop to serve in the Church of England was named Wednesday in a historic step that follows years of sometimes contentious debate.

Downing Street announced that the Rev. Libby Lane, who was been a priest since 1994, will be the new bishop of Stockport, in northern England. She will be consecrated as a bishop on January 26.

Her appointment brings to a close a thorny chapter in the church’s recent history.

Women have been able to serve as priests in the Church of England since the early 1990s. But some traditionalists resisted the move to allow them to become bishops, culminating in the issue being narrowly voted down in 2012 by the General Synod, the three-timesa-year meeting that sets policies for the church.

Two years earlier, the church’s governing body had narrowly rejected a measure, aimed at satisfying conservatives, that would have allowed parishes that opposed women bishops to have an additional male bishop.

A revised proposal was finally approved by Church of England leaders last month.

Speaking at a news conference in Stockport, Lane said she was grateful but also “somewhat daunted” to be chosen.

“This is unexpected and very exciting,” she said. “On this historic day as the Church of England announces the first woman

The Church of England announces the Rev. Libby Lane as its first woman bishop Wednesday in Stockport, England.

nominated to be bishop, I am very conscious of all those who have gone before me, women and men, who for decades have looked forward to this moment. But most of all I am thankful to God.” Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby -- who has backed allowing women to be bishops -- said he was delighted by her selection.

“Her Christ-centered life, calmness and clear determination to serve the church and the community make her a wonderful choice,” he said.

Archbishop of York John Sentamu said he would preside over Lane’s consecration as a bishop “with great joy.”

Lane, a mother of two whose husband is an airport chaplain, will serve as a suffragan, or junior, bishop

in the Diocese of Chester.

Reform, an Anglican evangelical network that has opposed the introduction of women bishops, warned that Lane’s appointment would strain relations in the diocese.

“We have known since July that the Church of England would seek to appoint women to the episcopate -- against the biblical model of good church leadership,” Rod Thomas, chairman of Reform, said in a statement.

“Though it grieves us, it comes as no surprise. We pray that the Bishop of Chester will uphold the promises made in July and enable the many thriving conservative evangelical churches in his Diocese to continue to serve their communities with theological integrity under the oversight of a male bishop.”

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Psychologist decapitates husband and hides remains across Mexico City: police A PSYCHOLOGIST who murdered and decapitated her abusive husband before scattering his remains across Mexico City sent text messages from his phone so friends and family would think he was still alive.

Long-suffering Maria Alejandra Lafuente Caso, 40, who claimed she had been repeatedly beaten by her hubby Allan Carrera Cuellar, 41, drugged him by slipping sleeping pills into his drink at their home in the Mexican capital.

She then took his chainsaw and chopped his body up, stuffing his remains inside black bin liners and depositing them around the city.

Police launched an investigation after children discovered his head whilst playing in a local park.

His hands and feet were later found in another part of the city.

But so that friends and family would not ask where he was, she told them he had gone on a business trip and sent them text messages from his phone.

A police spokesman said: “Before the body parts were found she convinced everyone that he was alive and well by sending text messages.

“After we found the remains and managed to identify him from DNA, she pretended to be a grieving widow.

“But a forensic examination of her home found traces of his blood and bone gristle in the carpets and bits of flesh in the

Maria Alejandra Lafuente Caso was arrested after police said she murdered and decapitated her abusive husband before scattering his remains across Mexico City.

She faces life in prison.

bathroom.

“She then tried to have herself sectioned using her knowledge of mental illness as a psychologist so she wouldn’t have to stand trial for his murder.

“But we had a doctor carry out tests and she is of perfectly sane mind.”

The woman now faces life in prison. (NYDailynews)

School massacre:

Pakistan to pursue terrorists Australian PM questions even outside its borders why terrorist had gun license AS THE death toll rose to 148 from Tuesday’s massacre at a militaryfunded high school, the crisis sent Pakistani leaders rushing to Kabul on Wednesday to make a rare request for Afghanistan’s help in fighting Islamist terrorism on both sides of their volatile border.

After years of mistrust and enmity, it was a moment of truth for the neighbouring Muslim countries, both facing new bouts of terrorism that threaten to reinforce their mutual suspicions and ignite more violence as Western forces finalise their withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Yet the moment also offered an opportunity to replace finger pointing with something closer to common cause.

In Pakistan, officials hinted that the Taliban militants who attacked the school in the border city of Peshawar had been based in the Afghan tribal belt. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on a visit to Peshawar, vowed to pursue militants beyond Pakistan’s borders and said his government “will not rest until every terrorist is killed.”

The prime minister, facing public pressure to take tough measures after the school attack, also approved a committee’s decision to lift Pakistan’s 2008 moratorium on the death penalty, officials said. Pakistan has about 9,000 prisoners on death row, including about 900 convicted on terror-related charges.

Ashraf Ghani, the recently inaugurated Afghan president, appeared to agree that action could

The man behind the deadly siege of a cafe in Sydney this week had a gun license and wasn’t on a security watch list, Australia’s Prime Minister says. And he wants to know why.

Tony Abbott said Wednesday that the system fell short.

“There’s no doubt about that, and this is why we’ve got to constantly learn the lessons of everything that happens,” he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “We’ve got to be constantly asking ourselves: Is this the best we can do?

“And frankly, we’ve got to always be better at this because if we aren’t good at this, our people suffer. And the tragedy of this atrocity is that two Pakistani students in Lahore pray during a special ceremony for the victims of Tuesday’s school attack in Peshawar. (K.M. Chaudary/AP)

be taken on Afghan soil against suspects from the Pakistani Taliban.

He seemed unlikely, however, to allow Pakistani forces to pursue them there, given the history of bilateral tensions and clashes along the porous border.

In Pakistan, prayer vigils were held across a nation in shock and mourning after the unprecedented attack, in which seven Taliban gunmen and suicide bombers stormed the school, then systematically gunned down scores of teachers and students before being killed by army commandos after a lengthy battle.

Amid the outpouring of national

grief, there were signs that the attack had temporarily united Pakistan’s political opposition behind Nawaz Sharif and the military. On Wednesday night, politician Imran Khan announced that his Movement for Justice party was ending its fourmonth protest campaign against the Sharif government.

The army’s chief spokesman, Maj Gen. Asim Bajwa, hinted that army officials know where the attack was orchestrated. He did not specifically blame militants living in Afghanistan, but he refused to rule out a cross-border military operation to try to capture or kill more Pakistani Taliban leaders.

delightful Australians, two very decent people, are dead. Others are injured.

Others are traumatised because of a madman who was roaming our streets,” the Prime Minister said.

His office announced that authorities will carry out an urgent review into the hostage taking and “what lessons can be learned from the events leading up to and surrounding the siege.”

At a news conference later Wednesday, Abbott told Australians, “I will not rest until I am confident that you are as safe as any government can possibly make you.”

A report on the conclusions of the review is due by the end of January.

EU court takes Hamas off terrorist organisations list A TOP court of the European Union has annulled the bloc’s decision to keep the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas on a list of terrorist groups.

The decision had been based not on an examination of Hamas’ actions, but on “factual imputations derived from the press and the internet”,judges found.

The court said the move was technical and was not a reassessment of Hamas’ classification as a terrorist group.

It said a funding freeze on the group would continue for the time

being.

Hamas dominates Gaza and fought a 50-day war with Israel earlier this year. Under its charter, the movement is committed to Israel’s destruction.

Responding to the ruling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas was a “murderous terrorist organisation” which should be put back on the list immediately.

Israel, the United States and several other nations have designated Hamas a terrorist organisation due to its long record of attacks and its refusal to renounce violence.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Regional News Martelly has met with political leaders to end Haiti crisis HAITIAN President Michel Martelly has met legislative, judicial and political leaders to discuss the appointment of a new prime minister and moves towards overcoming the current political crisis in the country.

Martelly sat down Monday with Stevenson Jacques Thimoleon, speaker of the Lower House and Senate speaker Simon Dieuseul Desras for the talks.

The president also received the Supreme Council of Judicial Power, CSPJ, president Anel Alexis Jose and members of the Provisional Electoral Council, CEP, at the National Palace.

Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe announced his resignation Sunday after Martelly agreed with a presidential advisory committee’s report recommending the resignation to overcome the political crisis of the country, the poorest in the Western hemisphere.

The advisory committee also recommended the resignation of CSPJ president Jose as well as CEP judges.

Additionally, it also called for all political prisoners to be freed, and urged senators to sanction

Laurent Lamothe announced his resignation Sunday as PM of Haiti.

ammendments to the electoral law to enable elections, which have been pending for years, to be held.

Two days later, two political prisoners, Rony Timothee and Byron Odige, who were arrested during a demonstration in October, were released.

Differences between the government and the legislature in recent years has halted the democratic process, the last such instance having occurred on Oct. 26.

Immigration to get easier for visitors to Cayman Islands PART-TIME Cayman Islands residents and short-term workers will soon be having a much easier time getting through Cayman Islands immigration processes when they arrive in the country.

Changes announced by Premier Alden McLaughlin in October indicated Cabinet has amended Immigration Regulations to allow short-term business travelers to remain in the country for up to 10 working days without the need to obtain a work permit.

Currently, those individuals who travel back and forth to the Cayman Islands for business meetings or short assignments must obtain a yearly work permit that allows them to enter the islands four times a year for two weeks at a time.

Another immigration change that comes by way of a Cabinet policy directive allows longer term visitors who have property in the Cayman Islands the ability to receive

permission to stay for up to six months at a time without any need to “check in” with the Immigration Department. The policy directive was made public Friday.

Currently, visitors who are not working but who wish to vacation for longer periods in Cayman at their homes must go back to immigration each month to renew a $100 visitors permit for 30 days. The change should provide a more welcoming environment for routine vacationers or retirees who spend part of year in Cayman, George Town MLA Joey Hew said.

“Once the directive is implemented, immigration officers may grant a six-month visa where the person can demonstrate they own a home in the Cayman Islands where they are intending to stay during their visit, and that they are able to support themselves without the need for employment during their visit,” Mr. Hew said.

Trinidad pastor on sex charges, released on bail A PASTOR at the Dow Village Open Bible Church, south of Port-ofSpain, will return to court on January 12 next year after being charged with having sexual intercourse with a woman without her consent.

Bernard Andrews, 47, was released on TT$300,000 (One TT dollar =US$0.16 cents) bail after he appeared before Magistrate Armina Deonarinesingh in the Second Court in Siparia on Monday.

Andrews has been slapped with two sexual charges. He had earlier surrendered to police.

The court heard that on a date unknown between July 31 and September 1, 2010, he had sexual intercourse with a female without her consent. He was also charged

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for having sexual intercourse with a woman on a date unknown between August 31 and October 1, 2010.

Attorney Earl Martin Jones asked the magistrate for reasonable bail since it was the season of Christmas.

Jones said Andrews was a pastor of the Dow Village Open Bible Church and also a farm attendant at a secondary school. He said his client had no previous offending matters before the court and “voluntarily gave himself up after a warrant was issued for his arrest” over the weekend.

Police prosecutor Sheldon Ablacksingh did not object to Andrews being placed on bail, but asked that he make no contact with the alleged victim. (CMC)

Haitian ambassador raises concern about Xenophobia in the Bahamas THE Haitian ambassador to the Organisation of American States raised concerns on Tuesday about xenophobia and mistreatment of Haitians in the Bahamas during a special OAS sitting in Washington, DC. Addressing Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell, Ambassador Bocchit Edmond called on the Bahamas government to consider launching a public campaign designed to underscore the notion that “verbal abuse” of Haitians is “unfair and unjust”.

Mr Edmond frequently emphasised that he did not wish to “cast aspersions” on the decisions of the Bahamian government, but he nonetheless raised several concerns about the policy measures this country has taken to deal with illegal immigration.

In his response, Mr Mitchell rejected suggestions of widespread abuse of Haitians and noted that the Bahamas government does not sanction discrimination. “...I would like to raise the concern of my government as to the verbal abuse to which Haitian immigrants have been exposed in the Bahamas,” Mr Edmond said.

“As you may know, sir, there are many great Haitians presently in the Bahamas, but that indeed have been in line with the immigration requirements for years…and yet too many of them are victims of certain abuse and denigrating (remarks) and I should go as far as to say frankly rankly discriminating behaviour simply because they are Haitians.”

“Then there are black Bahamians who are summarily interpreted as being Haitian and who have been subjected to the same treatment for that reason. I would very much hope that your government would take under advisement to launch a campaign of information of some kind to really underscore the fact that

Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell (left) addressing a Special Permanent Council Meeting of the Organisation of American States (OAS) in Washington, DC, on Tuesday. At centre is OAS Assistant Secretary General Albert Ramdin and at right is Ambassador of Guyana Bayney Karran.

this is unfair and unjust. I believe the vast majority of Bahamian citizens are very good, but when I read the press or have seen a couple of video clips on the Internet or heard and read for myself a number of these statements that have been made, I have to say these are frankly inflammatory and cannot fail but to stir up feelings that are not conducive to peaceful coexistence.

“So I would implore you, sir, to, I won’t say so much to educate, but to inform, to make it clear the measures are being taken, measures in the public domain, measures that I have stated from the outset are absolutely in the purview of Bahamian sovereign decisions, but we also know that the Bahamas as do we all has the obligation to respect basic human rights.”

In his response, Mr Mitchell said much of what is represented in the press about the treatment of Haitians in the Bahamas is false.

“To speak for a moment about the question of prejudice and

discrimination and what is said in the press and social media,” he said, “part of the reason we are here is because of the misinformation that was spun either in the press or social media about what this is. The government of the country is not responsible for what is in the press or what the people say in the press, although it might in fact reflect in some instances what public opinion is. But I think every Bahamian understands the nature of prejudice and bigotry and discrimination and certainly the government does not sanction any of these things and I want to separate myself from any effort which is suggesting that one ought to discriminate against any national group. This is a generic policy not expressed in terms of any national group.”

Nonetheless, Mr Mitchell acknowledged that many Bahamians are frustrated with the country’s illegal immigration problem and with having to absorb “hundreds and thousands” of illegal migrants.

Jamaica may have to import U.S. marijuana IN THE near future Jamaica could be importing cannabis (ganja) from the United States, says Ethan Nadelmann, founder and executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, the leading organisation in the United States promoting alternatives to the war on drugs.

“Consumer tastes have shifted from outdoor growing, which is what you do in Jamaica, to indoor growing (which is being done in the United States),” Nadelmann said in his keynote address at the Negril Chamber of Commerce’s Gala on Saturday night at the Couples Swept Away Resort.

“If you guys in Jamaica don’t get your act together soon, you are going to be importing ganja from America…better start moving because the world is going to leave Jamaica behind,” he told the guests.

He said that efforts being made in Jamaica to legalise the drug for medicinal and religious reasons was moving forward at the pace of “Jamaica time”.

“You know, at some point, Jamaica time becomes out of time. If you want this to happen, it gotta happen now. I know that the nations in the region are not used to providing global leadership, but its got to move forward quickly and its got to move forward with collective action in this country if something’s

Founder and executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance Ethan Nadelmann feels that consumers have taken a liking to indoor marijuana which could mean bad business for Jamaica.

going to happen,” he suggested.

Nadelmann says that the United States government has been forced to become more flexible on the issue of how regional governments interpret the international conventions on the use of the drug, because the provisions contradict treaties on development, health and human rights.

He said that this has been manifested in the results of referendums on its use in a growing number of American states.

He added that this development

has given nations in the region an opportunity to move forward, in terms of amending legislation restricting the use of drug for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Nadelmann plays a key role as drug policy advisor to billionaire George Soros, and other prominent philanthropists, as well as elected officials ranging from mayors, governors and state and federal legislators in the US to presidents and cabinet ministers outside the US. (Jamaica Observer)

38

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Garcia resigns from FIFA role THE man tasked with investigating the World Cup bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments resigned Wednesday, plunging world football into turmoil.

Michael Garcia’s resignation followed world governing body FIFA’s decision to throw out his appeal after he complained about the way his report into the bidding process had been summarized

by German judge Hans-Joachim Eckert -- FIFA’s independent ethics adjudicator.

“I disagree with the Appeal Committee’s decision,” said the American lawyer Garcia -- the chairman of the Investigatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee -- in a public statement.

“It now appears that, at least for the foreseeable future, the Eckert Decision will stand as the final word on the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cup bidding process.

“No independent governance committee, investigator, or arbitration panel can change the culture of an organisation.”

FIFA president Sepp Blatter said he was surprised by Garcia’s resignation but that the “work of the Ethics Committee will nonetheless continue.”

“Pending the election of a new chairman of the Ethics Committee by the FIFA Congress, the FIFA Executive Committee will appoint an acting chairman to serve as a replacement for Mr Garcia,” added Blatter, who will be at FIFA ExCo’s meeting in Marrakech on Thursday and Friday.

However Jerome Champagne, who is standing against Blatter in the 2015 FIFA presidential election, said Garcia’s decision was “a step backwards.”

A disconsolate Lionel Messi leaves the pitch after Barcelona was held goalless by Getafe in La Liga.

Michael Garcia (left) resignation followed world governing body FIFA’s decision to throw out his appeal after he complained about the way his report into the bidding process had been summarised

by German judge Hans-Joachim Eckert -- FIFA’s independent ethics adjudicator.

“We need to know what happened before and after the 2 December 2010 vote,” added Champagne, referring to the date Russia and Qatar won the right to stage the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

“When will the facts be known fully, transparently and above all without suspicion? When will we be able to start rebuilding FIFA’s image? And we need to protect the World Cup.” Garcia said his decision to resign had also been in influenced by FIFA’s “lack of leadership.”

“Now even FIFA’s very own lead investigator has recognized what many of us have warned for months: its self-investigation process is neither valid nor credible,” said U.S. lawyer David Larkin, who has been a campaigner for greater accountability from FIFA. It has been a difficult few months for Garcia.

In September the American

said for the first time that his report should be made public with redactions.

FIFA rejected his request on the grounds that witness confidentiality for his work could prove difficult to sustain if the report was published.

Then Eckert published his summary, prompting Garcia to respond by saying the German judge’s 42-page report contained “numerous materially incomplete and erroneous representations.”

In his resignation statement Garcia went even further.

“A brief I filed with the FIFA Appeal Committee on November 24, 2014, outlined the Eckert Decision’s most serious failings,” said the American lawyer.

“Among other points, the brief explained why, when viewed in the context of the Report it purported to summarize, no principled approach could justify the Eckert Decision’s edits, omissions, and additions.”

Mayweather: ‘I don’t mind being a rich coward’ DAYS after calling out Manny Pacquiao for a fight on May 2, Floyd Mayweather returned to the offensive, going on the record about what he feels is holding back the long-delayed fight.

In the exclusive interview with FightHype, Mayweather (47-0; 26 knockouts) talked about the condition of random blood and urine testing, Pacquiao’s relationship with promoter Bob Arum, and the claims of some that Mayweather is a “coward” for not fighting Pacman.

“I laugh about it. I really laugh about it because I say, you know, I don’t mind being a rich coward,” the 5-division champion Mayweather said.

“I’m able to put my kids in the best schools. I was able to retire my mother. I’m able to put my dad in a comfortable position. Even with social media and everything, we don’t like Floyd, we hate Floyd, but we follow Floyd to comment on Floyd.”

The issue of random blood and urine testing that had been a sticking point in early negotiations seems to have been settled as Pacquiao had submitted to pre-fight performance enhancing drug testing leading up to his one-sided win over Chris Algieri in Macau in November.

The eight-division boxing champion from General Santos City, Philippines submitted to random testing through the Voluntary AntiDoping Association (VADA), which has turned in dirty tests from world

Barcelona slips up in pursuit of record breaking Real Madrid BARCELONA failed to keep pace in the La Liga title race with record breaking Real Madrid Saturday after being held goalless at Getafe.

With the pressure on after Real’s 4-1 win at Almeria, its 20th straight, Barca just could not find the way past the home defense.

It trails its arch-rival by four points with Real headed to Morocco Sunday to play in FIFA’s Club World Cup. “The draw isn’t a great result,” Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez told AFP. “There’s still a long way to go in the league, but admittedly it’s a step backwards,” he added.

The Catalan giant was missing Brazilian star Neymar through an ankle injury but otherwise fielded a strong side in the Coliseum Alfonso Perez Luis Suarez -- still searching for his first La Liga goal for his new club -- went close in the first half after turning an effort just wide, while both sides had penalty appeals for handball turned down.

Lionel Messi almost broke the deadlock after the break but saw a free kick rattle the crossbar and he also headed over from a good position.

It was a rare failure to register on the score sheet for Messi, all the more galling after his scoring rival

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a late double in Real’s victory the previous evening.

Ronaldo had been a largely peripheral figure for 80 minutes until adding two fine late strikes to earlier goals from Isco and Gareth Bale for the European champions.

It took his tally in La Liga to 25 for the season. Garcia Rabasco had given Almeria hope with a thumping strike to level Isco’s opener and Real also had Iker Casillas to thank for saving a second half penalty to keep his side in front.

Chelsea continues to set a hot pace in the English Premier League, bouncing back after a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle last weekend to beat 10man Hull 2-0 at Stamford Bridge Saturday.

Eden Hazard put Jose Mourinho’s men ahead early, but the home side was helped by the controversial dismissal of Hull’s Tom Huddlestone’s for a challenge on Filipe Luis on the hour mark.

Diego Costa wrapped up the three points with his 12th of the season soon afterwards.

It left Chelsea three points clear of reigning champion Manchester City, who continued its fine recent form with a 1-0 victory at bottom side Leicester City.

Kobe Bryant passed Michael Jordan last week to reach third on the all-time NBA scoring list.

MONEY MAN. Floyd Mayweather Jr. says he isn’t concerned what other people think of him as long as he’s getting paid. Photo by John Gurzinski/AFP

champions Anthony Peterson and Andre Berto.

Mayweather claims that Arum, who promoted Mayweather from his pro debut in 1996 and led him to several championships before splitting a decade ago, is one of the remaining hurdles towards making the fight.

“People say Bob Arum is in the way, that’s the difference between me and Pacquiao: I’m in control,” an assured Mayweather said. His company, Mayweather Promotions, was recently granted a license in Nevada this past July.

Not long after Pacquiao’s victory over Algieri, Arum once again said during an interview that a fight

between Manny and Floyd has yet to take place because the latter is afraid.

“To get Mayweather in the ring with Pacquiao is a monumental task.

Not because of splits, not because of money, because Manny stands the best chance of anybody that Floyd has faced to beat him,” Arum told World Boxing news.

Mayweather, however, disagrees.

“When I say I’m ready to go, I’m ready to go. Pacquiao fights when Bob Arum tells him he has to fight.

I fight when I want to fight. I move when I want to move. That’s the great thing about being your own boss. And being in control of your own career. That’s the great thing about my career,” Mayweather said.

Reggie Miller: Jordan is 10 times better than Bryant DURING his weekly appearance on the Dan Patrick Show, Reggie Miller ended the Jordan vs. Kobe debate – in his own mind.

When asked about Kobe Bryant passing Michael Jordan for third place on the all-time scoring list earlier this week, Miller said, “Michael Jordan on his worst day is 10 times better than Kobe Bryant on his best day. That’s not short-changing Kobe at all, because he handed me my lunch pail, too, but I will take that Black Cat (Jordan) all day, any day over Kobe.”

Bryant owns the edge on career points, but Jordan has more scoring titles (10-2), NBA titles (6-5), NBA

MVP awards (5-1) and Finals MVP awards (6-2). Also, at the end of this season, Jordan will have played four fewer seasons.

Miller went on to credit Bryant for an incredible career, much like he did on Twitter when Bryant passed Jordan against the Timberwolves with a pair of free throws.

“It’s truly a special career,” Miller said of Bryant. “That’s a heck of a lot of points and a heck of a lot of longevity.”

Miller is 17th on the all-time scoring list himself, with 25,279 career points — 67 points ahead of Tim Duncan and 55 points behind Wizards forward Paul Pierce.

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Sports National

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BWIC Spartans storm to School basketball title – Runners up HJ Robinson also outstanding THE British West Indies Collegiate (BWIC) Spartans marched to their inaugural high school basketball title in text book fashion this week when they played undefeated in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) organised National High School Seven-team Double Elimination tournament at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Providenciales.

With precision and teamwork they outscored the HJ Robinson High School in each quarter of the final on Wednesday night to win the title via a score of 64-53.

Nothing can be taken away from runners up HJ, who also played an outstanding tournament. Both teams had their share of wins in the tournament, but in the championship clash the Spartans led by power forward Quinn Higgs were able to score at key intervals.

Higgs, who was later named the Most Valuable Player, just missed a double-double with 15 points and nine boards. He also made four assists, three steals and one block.

Shooting guard Stuart Ewing, who showed quick hands, made five steals to go with 13 points, while point guard Lawrence Saintange made four steals, pulled down three boards and made eight points. Also in the thick of things was bench

player Myrohn Pereira, who scored five consecutive points towards the end of the first half, including a three-pointer. He finished with nine points, 10 rebounds and three steals.

For HJ the powerful Stenly Jean led the attack with a game high 17 points and 14 boards, two blocks and two steals. Captain of the side small forward Jawan Williams was also in double figures. He scored 14 points, eight boards, two blocks and two steals.

The BWIC opened the tournament with a big win against Maranatha High. They outscored them 29-13 in the second half for a 54-25 finish.

Higgs had led the attack with 13 points. The eventual champions then defeated powerhouse the CHHS Eagles before beating the TCIPS in the virtual semi-final before the championship clash.

HJ lost their opener 58-34 after a big third quarter (23-8) from TCIPS, but they bounced back with a surprising win over multiple years champions Majorie Basden High School despite an explosive 36 points and 12 rebounds from power player Javardo Smith. In the game that ended 61-57, Williams led the attack with 23 points and 15 boards.

The Grand Turk school then defeated the Eagles before they got revenge over the TCIPS.

The BWIC head coach Keith Cox Sr. (left) and his team celebrate the title win after an unbeaten tournament. (Photo Gertrude Saunders-Forbes)

Runners up HJ Robinson played their hearts out and despite an opening loss they were able to beat powerhouse teams Majorie Basden and CHHS in the preliminary rounds.

Digicel Play PPL:

Sharks and Teachers take early lead after draw A draw between the SWA Sharks and Teachers FC have left both teams on top of the points table early in the 2014-2015 season of the Provo Premier League (PPL) sponsored by Digicel Play.

In the opener of a double header last Saturday at the AFC Academy ground both teams ended with three goals to jump to four points on the points

table. Defending champs the AFC Academy and Rozo FC are both on one win each (three points), while Cheshire Hall had their opening win retracted since according to league officials they played with “ineligible players”.

That game will reportedly be replayed at a later date.

On Saturday afternoon Teachers were aggressive in the first 39 minutes with goals from Stevan

McIntosh, Romain Small and Michael Laird. A successful Syed Hassan free kick in the 41st minute gave the Sharks some hope as the teams headed for the break.

In the second half Dadi Aristide scored twice to equalise, but the fourth goal for either side never came.

In the feature clash Rozo got on the points table with a walkover win over Mango Reef Trailblazers.

Thierry Henry: French football great bids adieu

Pittsburgh Penguins stars Beau Bennett, left, and Sidney Crosby have both caught mumps.

Mumps outbreak hits National Hockey League players AN outbreak of mumps has swept through teams in the National Hockey League (NHL).

The first confirmed cases were three players in the Anaheim Ducks, and since then at least four more teams have been affected.

Ice hockey’s top player, Pittsburgh Penguins’ captain Sidney Crosby, has missed three games and is still not cleared to play.

The highly contagious disease is usually found in children.

The NHL is composed of 30

member teams from both the US and Canada.

On Tuesday, Penguins forward Beau Bennett was diagnosed with mumps, bringing the total number of players affected to 15.

Meanwhile, Marc-Andre Fleury, Robert Bortuzzo and Olli Maatta were being tested as a precaution, team officials said.

“We have been sanitising the rooms and everything here for the last week,” Penguins General Manager Jim Rutherford said.

AFTER 20 years, over 300 goals and a host of major honors, Thierry Henry has called time on his football career.

The Frenchman, who won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with his country, is hanging up his boots to pursue a broadcasting career.

Although he made his breakthrough with French team Monaco, and spent time with Juventus, Barcelona and latterly New York Red Bulls, Henry is best remembered for a glittering eightyear spell with Arsenal in the English Premier League.

Henry became the London club’s all-time leading goalscorer and helped the Gunners win two league titles and the FA Cup on three occasions.

“It has been an incredible journey and I would like to thank all the fans, team mates and individuals involved with AS Monaco, Juventus, Arsenal FC, FC Barcelona, the New York Red Bulls and of course the French National Team that have made my time in the game so special,” he said on his official Facebook page.

“I have had some amazing memories (mostly good!) and a wonderful experience. I hope you

Thierry Henry has called time on a long and distinguished football career. The former French international, who turned 37 last August, announced his decision on Tuesday last.

have enjoyed watching as much as I have enjoyed taking part. See you on the other side...”

Henry’s move to Arsenal in 1999, after a troubled year in Turin with Juventus, saw him reunited with former Monaco coach Arsene Wenger.

The pair led Arsenal through a golden era, including an unbeaten Premier League campaign during the 2003-04 season.

That team that won 26 and drew 12 of its 38 league matches during that campaign became known as the “Invincibles.”

Henry left Arsenal in 2007 and headed to Barcelona, where more titles lay in wait.

During three seasons in Catalonia, Henry won the Spanish championship on two occasions and helped the club lift the European Champions League in 2009.

40

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Sports National TCI female rugby has potential to be competitive in Caribbean

– Opines coach Ranald Schulz FEMALE rugby could be the next big thing in the TCI. National coach Ranald Schulz feels that: “there is a lot of potential” to develop our females to be competitive at the regional level in the next few years.

In an invited comment on the way forward from our recent participation in the North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 7s tournament in Mexico, Schulz seemed excited about the possible growth.

He said that the TCI Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) will now look to add to the current pool of players “to create more competitions for spots in the team”.

Although all seems optimistic on paper, Schulz feels there will be some setbacks. “The challenge for the Turks and Caicos Islands is to continue to foster the great homegrown talent representing the country, but also provide them the best opportunities to educate themselves at the best universities.

Most of the girls in the team are aspiring to set themselves up with a good education and their participation in sport makes a

significant contribution to that.”

Schulz said that despite the females being the youngest team in the region (second international tournament) they held their own and came very close to beating St. Lucia, but with a 7-10 score, we “unfortunately ran out of time”.

“Everyone had a great trip,

learning about competition, preparation, rugby as well as making new friends and experiencing Mexican culture.”

The trip was made possible by the inputs of the British Caribbean Bank, HAB Group, Chartered Trust, Olympic Construction, Trail Enterprises and Fortis.

The female team played in just their second international tournament when they competed at the recently held NACRA 7s tournament in Mexico.

Discipline and experience won title – BWIC Spartans coach THE fairytale overall victory for the British West Indies Collegiate Spartans at this year’s National High School Seven-team Double Elimination tournament was achieved by discipline and experience, opines head coach Keith Cox Sr. The sports enthusiast said: “The difference in the game was defense. The (BWIC) team stayed disciplined. They came to believe in themselves.”

Most of the 2013 players were still in the squad this year and Mr. Cox felt that they brought a lot of experience to the side.

“They all played important parts of the game. I’m one not to teach individualism in a team sport where we rely on only one player. If it’s a team then that’s how it should be played.”

Coach Dane Ritchie and some of TCI female cricketers at a practice session at the Downtown Ball Park.

Youth and female development high on cricket agenda in 2015 THE Turks and Caicos Cricket Association (TCICA) will continue to develop youth and female cricketers in 2015.

In his end of year message the association’s president Colin Sterling indicated that the developmental process (which started this year) was successful.

“Many strides have been made this year, namely, holding our first primary school’s competition and starting the women’s programme.”

He said that the association has already revived coaching in schools to include the majority of institutions

in Providenciales and Grand Turk and it hopes to continue this trend for South Caicos and North Caicos in 2015.

Sterling was encouraged by the interest shown by the females who turned out Saturday mornings for practice. He feels that this group can grow in the New Year and that a youth cricket academy could be created to house talented boys and girls. He hopes that this group can take the sport to the next level on the island.

Sterling heaped praises on sponsors Scotiabank and HAB

Group and individuals Rawle Gill, Dane Ritchie, Patrina Pierre, Paul McKenzie and Beashan Bhagwandas for “their dedicated support throughout the year…”

The cricket chief also thanked H.E. Governor Peter Beckingham and the Hon. Akierra Misick, Deputy Premier and Minister of Youth, Sports and Education “for their commitment to assist wherever possible”.

He said that the association’s AGM will be held in early February with the senior men’s competition set to start in early March.

OUTSTANDING Mr. Cox, who admitted that this was one of his greatest accomplishments as coach, downplayed his performance on the sidelines, despite an explosion on the social network about his accomplishments.

The coach, who is into his third year with the school, said that the performance was a team effort.

He praised all of his players and thanked Principal Mrs. Wigglesworth for her support.

He credited female assist coaches Mrs. Maurine Jones and Destiny Missick as: “The best help on the bench as coaches”.

He also credited the team’s performance and mindset to camps they attended in the US in 2013 and 2014.

“I took this team to Duke

University for more exposure and fundamental training from one of the best coaches in the US Mike Krzyewski and coaches Randy Cunningham and Sharon Store. To have the experience of the number one coach in the US, who has also coached the USA Olympic men’s basketball team and won so many college championships, I would say that this made a huge difference in the way they played the game.”

Cox, who also coaches the Five Cays Flyers in the PABA Night League, has coached the Silver Deep softball female team to a championship title and teams in the Provo Hockey League.

Along with the win this week, he was pleased that the Spartans were also professional in their approach.

“I must also state that they got comments of being the most discipline team ever to play in this tournament.”

MENTOR Point guard Lawrence Saintange told the Weekly News that Coach Cox; “Picked up where Coach Wesley “Tanka” Williams left off. He was more than a coach for the Spartans. He acted as our mentor at every practice game.

He has pushed every single player on our team to reach their highest potential, which opened the doors to the Spartans improving as a team over the last three years. Due to his experience and understanding of the game, he was able to come up with different tactics, allowing us to take away our opponent’s strengths and exposing their weaknesses.”

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

41

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

43

44

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Merry Christmas From our entire team

With appreciation for your business and with warmest wishes for a happy Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year

Connolly Kia Ltd. Tropical Plaza, Grace Bay Road. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.

Tel: (649) 941-7264, (649) 946-5300. Fax: (649) 941-7265, (649) 946-5456.

Email: tropical@tciway.tc

Classifieds

Services Auto sales real estate

BAYVIEW MOTORS

AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

Receptionist

labourer to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Receptionist act as the first point of contact in an organization, greeting people and attending to enquiries made by phone or in person. Bayview Motors is seeking a Receptionist to epitomize customer service, prepare deposits and posting pertaining to business transactions recorded by other workers.

Requirements: • High school diploma or equivalent

contact: 241-4769

10803

• Passes in mathematics and English CXC or equivalent • Basic understanding of accountancy and bookkeeping • Excellent interpersonal skills – to deal with customers and external contacts • This includes customer’s needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services and evaluation of customer satisfaction • Good organizational skills and ability to work and sometimes implement your

• • • • • •

own processes Work with minimal supervision Familiar with Microsoft Office particularly Word, Excel and Outlook Ability to quickly learn the different programs used by the company Must have a valid driver’s license Must be able to work neatly and accurately Must be able to work as a team

Please submit all applications to Bayview Motors between the hours of 9am-5pm Monday- Friday or to P.O. Box 619, Leeward Highway, Providenciales 10805

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

CORIATS

Acting on behalf of our client: LUC SAINT JEAN Is looking for a

Sales Lady To work 5 days contact: 241-5922

10801

per week salary $5.50 per hour

OUR 37TH YEAR

CORIATS (CARIBBEAN) LIMITED LICENSED TRUST COMPANY

TRUST & CORPORATE OFFICER With minimal experience in Trust or Corporate Field.

Will train if needed.

High academic capability and good computer skills required, with working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word. Viewpoint experience would be an asset.

TCI Belongers Preferred; excellent working environment.

Applications with full CV to Marcella Malcolm, CORIATS, The Centre, P.O. Box 171, Providenciales.

Fax (649) 946-4850. E.Mail office@coriats.com

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

MAITRE D

Responsibilities include: • Supervision of wait staff • Reservations and running of dining room during service • Must have knowledge of wines especially Italian • Must have 5 years experience in the industry • Must be willing to work nights, weekend and public holidays Salary $450 per week not including gratuities

Send resumes to GTC Limited, P.O. Box 543 Belongers only need apply

10811

EXPRESS EQUIPMENT

2 HYDRAULIC TECHNICIANS • Electronic troubleshooting technician • Technician on ABS Brakes System • Minimum of 5 years experience • Salary $15.00 per hour

Contact: 649-245-2897

10784

Job Listings

45

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Hernandez Employment Agency Is looking of behalf of our clients. Classic Bar, BLD Group Construction, H & VG Construction, Quantum Development Co. Castillo Construction, VIP Barbershop.

1 Barber 1 Carpenter 2 Masons 4 Barmaids 1 Bartender 1 Painter 1 Metal head 1 Stone Carver Belonger only may apply by sending a resume to: hernandezemploymentservices.8@ gmail.com Dead line December 19 2014

10797

December 20 – January 2, 2015

QUINBY HALl is looking for a

painter to work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

10815

contact: 333-1274

GOVERNMENT VACANCIES Client Care Assistant

Administration Assistant / Receptionist InterHealth Canada seeks an Administration Assistant/ Receptionist for their main front desk at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre.

Base Requirements: (not exhaustive)

Qualifications:

Porter

LOCATION: Providenciales Deadline: 30th December, 2014 Salary: $7.65 per hour or $ 596.70 fortnightly JOB SUMMARY: The successful candidate will provide support services to the Mortuary Department personnel. The job holder will be responsible to maintain the cleanliness of buildings, and the transferring of supplies.

Porter

(a) High School Graduate (b) Vocational or on the job training in customer services or computer training preferred (c) Reception/ Administration qualification

LOCATION: Providenciales Deadline: 30th December, 2014 Salary: $7.65 per hour or $ 596.70 fortnightly JOB SUMMARY: The successful candidate will provide support services to the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) personnel to maintain the cleanliness of buildings, and transferring supplies and materials.

Role: Administration / Reception Duties Provide a professional and friendly service approach in customer service as part of the front of house team. This will include use of a busy switch board, answering telephone calls and redirecting calls to the appropriate department, dealing with members of the public and visitors enquires on a daily basis. Administration of the Facilities helpdesk and administration support for the management team as required.

Emergency Medical Responder

Salary: Negotiable, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Apply in writing together with an up to date curriculum vitae to: dwilson@interhealthcanada.tc CLOSING DATE: 19th December 2014

LOCATION: South Caicos Deadline: 30TH December, 2014 SALARY: TNF 1-7 $16,200.00 - $18,720.00 JOB SUMMARY: This is a practical nursing position with basic level responsibility for patient health care in the Wellness Centers.

10798

LOCATION: Providenciales Deadline: 30th December, 2014 Salary: $7.65 per hour or $ 596.70 fortnightly JOB SUMMARY: This is a direct operational response position within the Emergency Medical Services. The job holder will respond to emergencies in a safe manner and assist in the extrication, stabilization, care and transportation of the ill and injured as required.

10809

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BAYVIEW MOTORS

A & W WHOLESALE AND GROCERY

Is looking to employ a

Is looking for a

• Full of energy, reliable and trustworthy • Use their own initiative and be able multi-task • Experienced housekeeper with a high level of attention to detail.

• Accustomed & willing to look after children • Be willing to work flexible hours including holidays, week-ends and evenings • Be willing to look after the household when owners are absent • Possess excellent command of English • Computer skills preferred.

• Must be a non-smoker Summary of duties and responsibilities • General housekeeping duties including laundry.

• Running errands & grocery shopping • Cooking

10818

Please submit all application between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeway Highway. Providenciales

Labourer/Senior Hatchery Technician Trade Wind Industries Limited, owners & operators of the Caicos Conch Farm in Leeward seeks to employ a Labourer/Senior Conch Hatchery Technician with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the domestic cultivation of Caribbean queen conch and a familiarity with warm water fin fish. This is a 57 hour per week labor position that involves the maintenance and upkeep of conch and fish currently growing at the Caicos Conch Farm. Daily job activities include cleaning and waste removal from conch ponds / cleaning and waste removal from fish tanks / the sorting, counting, relocating and harvesting of conch and fish /general maintenance of the facility including (but not limited to) trash removal, site maintenance, repairs etc. Other related and necessary duties may be as assigned.

Salary: $8.00 per hour.

Send resume to: Saunders & Co, Town Centre Building, Providenciales, Attention: Caicos Conch Farm.

Preference will be given to individuals with work experience in luxury villas or 5 star hotels and with a valid driver’s license.

Salary dependent on experience and ranges from $1000.00 to $1,250.00 a month. NOTE THIS IS A LIVE-IN POSITION ONLY.

Applications must also apply in writing with resumes to: Tcielite2014@gmail.com or P.O. Box 143, Providenciales.

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 2323487 or 242-7417

10816

PUBLIC NOTICE BRITISH ATLANTIC FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD. (in Provisional Liquidation) At a Hearing on November 20th, in the Supreme Court of the Turks & Caicos Islands It was Ordered that 1. The hearing of the Petition be adjourned until the 9th of January 2015 at 9am at the Court House, Providenciales.

2. Mr. Joseph Connolly care of PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Turks and Caicos Islands and Mr. David Walker of PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Cayman Islands, be and hereby are appointed as Provisional Liquidators (the “Provisional Liquidators”) of British Atlantic Financial Services Ltd. (“the Company”) until the Petition can be disposed of by the Court.

3. Any one of the Provisional Liquidators shall have the powers set out in section 117 of the Companies Ordinance (CAP 16.08) (the “Companies Ordinance”) which they may exercise without the sanction or intervention of the Court save that the power contained in Section 117(b) be varied so as to include a power to carry on the business (or any part of the business) of the Company as a going concern.

As part of the provisional liquidation process the provisional liquidators are requesting that all policyholders and creditors complete proof of debt forms.

These forms will be available either at: • The office of British Atlantic Financial Services Limited – (In Provisional Liquidation) • By email from joseph.p.connolly@tc.pwc.com Any questions regarding the completion of the form should be addressed in the first instance to the offices of British Atlantic Financial Services Ltd. (In Provisional Liquidation) at 941-5614 10802

10783

A LIVE IN FULL TIME housekeeper is required to work in a luxury villa. The successful candidate must possess the following qualities & experience:

Cashier

• Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance, cleaning of the building, refuse removal and any other related duties • All applicants must possess a valid driver’s license • Willing to work weekends and holidays • Must be able to drive a manual vehicle

10817

Live in Domestic Helper/Housekeeper

Labourer

Turks and Vision Construction Needs

4 Tile men 4 Labourers 4 Manson

Salary commensurate with experience email: destinationtci@gmail.com

10819

46 CLASSIFIEDS

New Grace Bay Venture Is looking for the following:

Restaurant Chef

• Must be willing to work weekends, nights and holidays • Must be willing to work 6 days per week, clean kitchen after service • Must have a good knowledge of Mediterranean food, grilling/bbq, sauces, butchery, cooking of seafood and dressing • Must have current Food Safety and Hygiene certification

Kitchen Helper

• Must be willing to work weekends, nights and holidays • Must be willing to work 6 days per week, clean kitchen after service • Must have good knowledge in food preparation • Must be physically fit to unload trucks and move supplies between work areas

Waitress

• Must be willing to work weekends, nights and holidays • Must be willing to work 6 days per week, clean bar after service • Take food and drink orders, serve customers and show attention to detail • Must have knowledge in service and hygiene conscious • Must be friendly, professional and have good customer relationship

Pls call 341 5856 for applications 10812

December 20 – January 2, 2015 JAMES WILLIAMS Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 47

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JEROME BROWN Is looking for a

Domestic Domestic Worker To work 5 days Worker per week salary To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

10806

$5.50 per hour. contact: 242-3858 10804

1-Joiner Salary payable $12.00 per hr.

Contact Anthony

231-1057

10810

Part-time position for a Cook/ Housekeeper twenty hours per week must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays salary $10.00 per hour must have own transportation Cleaner needed to work 8 hours per week salary $7.00 per hour.

hairdresser To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

10800

Experienced

Parasail Captain

With 10+ years of experience for Parasail Company.

contact is 333-3000

Previous applicants need not reapply

DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE

Currently hiring FT & PT positions

Sky Pilot

The job holder will be responsible to advise Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments on the implementation of policies relating to the effective use of personnel throughout the Public Service in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance, the Employee Handbook and the Financial Regulations.

The successful candidate will be assigned to a number of departments and will have responsibility for coordinating a wide range of human resource functions required by those departments.

Providenciales (22nd December, 2014) SALARY $55,000.00 per annum

contact 331-1809 closing date for applications is January 21st, 2014 Belongers only need apply 10756

contact: 333-1235

HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER

Grand Turk (Salary T 30 $ 33,360.00) 19th December, 2014

Cook

PASSION BEAUTY SALON & SUPPLIES Is looking for a

VACANCIES

for Counter Server at Turkberry Frozen Yogurt (Regent Village).

• Hours include daytime, evening, weekend and holidays.

• Applicant must be outgoing, trustworthy, willing to learn, take direction from superiors.

• Fluent reading and writing in English is mandatory.

• Duties include serving customers, some food prep work, cashiering and cleaning counters and tables.

• Prior experience preferred but not mandatory - a great attitude will prevail!

• Job is open to Turks Islanders only.

Applications should be submitted at www.momentous.tc or in person at Neptune Crt. Unit 204 (Momentous Ltd.) during business hours (10 am - 3 pm).

10807

WESLEY LEWIS

The Director of Agriculture will be responsible for the Administration of the Department of Agriculture, the enforcement of Laws and Regulations pertaining thereto. Also the securing and the holding of Borders as this pertains to National Agricultural priorities and control of and elimination of Feral Animals.

SOCIAL WORKER

Grand Turk (22nd December 2014) SALARY: $24,840.00 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for counseling clients and their families, interviewing and assessing foster families and collaborating with other departments and organizations to ensure that the needs of disadvantaged persons in the communities are met.

FIRE SAFETY OFFICER

Providenciales (22nd December, 2014) SALARY: $16,200.00 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for safe guard.

CLERICAL ASSISTANTS (Various)

North Caicos and Providenciales (22nd December 2014) SALARY: T1 $15,720 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for clerical and administrative tasks to support the daily functions of the Office.

MAGISTRATE

Is looking for a

Grand Turk (22nd December, 2014) SALARY: $57,600.00 per annum (tax free)

Labourer To work 6 days

per week salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 244-8820

10799

As one of a bench currently comprising three magistrates, the post-holder will be responsible for the conduct of the Magistrate’s Court in Grand Turk of cases regarding criminal, traffic, youth justice, juvenile (care and protection), guardianship and custody of children, maintenance/affiliation and civil matters and coroner’s inquests.

SRF CONSTRUCTION Is looking for the following positions:

Mason Steel man

Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $300.00 per week contact: 247-9445

10798

KVANAR Ltd Construction Site Supervisor For a 4 (four) month contract commencing early January 2015.

• Able to work under own direction and able to manage direct and sub contract labor • Able to carry out own take offs and material orders, produce regular progress reports, purchase reports and the like • Have a very high level of finishes exper ience

REGISTRAR OF THE SUPREME COURT

Grand Turk (SALARY: $57,600.00 per annum (tax free) 5th January, 2015

10808

Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com Deadline for applications Dec 31, 2014.

Interviews to be held for successful applicants on Jan 5, 2015 Remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications

Providenciales (16th January 2015) SALARY: US$125,000 per annum The successful applicant must be able to provide legal advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and other Statutory Bodies in the investigation and prosecution of the full range of criminal offences, and, in particular, direct investigations, prosecutions and related proceedings in connection with serious fraud and money laundering cases.

Is seeking a

Qualifications/Experience needed: • Skilled at reading, interpreting and understanding Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Drawings • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Project & Outlook • Excellent written and oral skills

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS

Working under the direction of the Chief Justice, the post-holder will be responsible for the efficient day-to-day operations of the Supreme Court and its Registry. He/She will issue process and ensure due execution of judgments; supervise the administration of cases including setting dates for and issuing hearing notices; ensure that all files are properly maintained; manage the Registry Office and supervise staff and correspond with Attorneys and Litigants.

10790

48

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Brama Kumaris

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com

FOR SALE

December 20 – January 2, 2015

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FLOWER GIRL

Wanted urgently

Floral Designer

Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.

Call: 231-3788

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Customer Service Rep Is looking for a

labourer To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 231-0005

10796

To work 6 days per week weekends and holidays on call 24/7 must be willing to clean indoors and outdoors Must have a pick up truck or SUV salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 649-231-3069 10774

Is looking for a

mechanic To work 6 days per week and on call salary $12.00 per hour.

contact: 231-1489

10792

Acting on behalf of our clients: Coyaba Restaurant and After 5 is looking to fill the following positions:

seeks the following person:

One Gardener

Kitchen Helper Maitre D Sous Chef

To work six days a week. Salary $5.00 per hour. contact 946-7705

Catering Supervisor

10789

TCIPS COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL

Salary $5.50 $8.00 per hour. contact: 345-7512 10792

T’S TEES N THINGS

is looking for a

HOME ECONOMICS TEACHER/ GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR

Sales Clerk

Eligibility requirements: • Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics • At least a Diploma in Family Life Education • At least 5 years teaching experience • Able to teach up to the CSEC Level • Creative, passionate and hardworking • Good communication skills

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Kindly email resume which should include two references to: admin@tcips.com not later than December 30th, 2014

contact: 241-5403

GUTTERS EXPRESS

IMPERIAL SECURITY SERVICES SECURITY SPECIALISTS

GOLD STAR NAIL CENTER BEAUTY SALON IS LOOKING FOR

$6.00/HOUR

1 HAIR STYLIST $7.00/HOUR

10787

labourer To work 5 days per week salary $7.50 per hour.

is looking for a

Security Officer Salary $6.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 347-6642

contact: 347-9104

contact: 649-231-1207

MANEX GABRIEL

MARIE WILSON

TAKERA FRANCIS

10793

10788

Is looking for a

Tailor labourer 10776

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 342-9957

10791

Contact: 649-342-5450

10785

is looking for a

is looking for a

to work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour must have at least 8 year experience.

Applicant must be fluent in Spanish and English salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 649-343-8261

10781

DINESHWAIRE JAINARINE

Is looking for a

laboUrer To work 4 days

Cabinet Maker To work 6 days per week

per week salary $6.50 per hour.

salary $12.00 per hour interested persons can contact Mr. Charlton Gardiner at 231-6966 between the hours of 9am-5pm 10775

contact: 231-0001 SICILY ROBERTS

DOMINIQUE BEAUTY SALON & BOUTIQUE

is looking for a

IS LOOKING FOR

is looking for a

1 LABOURER 1 GARDENER CONTACT: 331-7792

10794

Destination TCI

Place

We finance as low as $300 946-5534 or 244-1400 or 346-8886

10820

Hair Stylist

labourer To work 6 days

To work 6 days per week salary $150.00 per week.

contact: 343-3918

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 244-1091

NATURES VISION LTD. Is looking for a

Landscape LaboUrer

• To work 5 days per week • Must be able to work weekends and holidays • Must be knowledgeable of chemicals and fertilization • Must be able to speak English and have own vehicle Interested persons please contact: 649-232-2272

FIRST GLOBAL INSURANCE BROKERS LIMITED. Is seeking a qualified individual to fill the following position:

Is looking for a

1 CASHIER

CARETAKER

Market

VACANCY

A qualified and experienced teacher with a very strong classroom management skills is required at the above named institution for the post of:

CLEAR VIEW WINDOW CLEANER

Is looking for a

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

Colmelita Handfield

CHARLIE’S CONSTRUCTION

10772

Is looking for a

CALASCO

10787

WRS DREAM VILLA MANAGEMENT

domestic worker

To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour must be willing to work holidays and weekends please fax all Cv’s to 649-946-4433 deadline for applications is December 31st, 2014 10771

UNDERWRITER

The successful candidate would meet the following requirements: - College Degree minimum bachelors level or Diploma in Insurance - Minimum 15 years experience in Commercial Underwriting - Minimum 15 years experience in Risk Management in Property, Casualty and Employee Benefit insurance - Proficient in oral and written communication - Computer literate & especially familiar with Broker 1 Underwriting and Accounting software - Good negotiation Skills - Able to effectively deal with Insurance Companies, Brokers and Agents

OTHER DUTIES - Must be able to attend to on-call duties especially in emergency situations particularly during Catastrophes Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Applications must be emailed to: info@fgibtci.com Attn: General Manager First Global Insurance Brokers Limited P.O. Box 117, Caribbean Place Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Applications must be received by 10th January 2015

10777

ALPHEUS GARDINER

CLASSIFIEDS 49

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

10786

December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

Momentous Ltd.

Mills Institute

Is seeking qualified individuals to fill a number of openings. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills test. Compensation will be commensurate with experience.

Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the qualifications listed are encouraged to apply. All applications accepted at www.momentous.tc.

Assistant Manager – Communications & Sales

is seeking to employ the following;

Job Vacancy

Trained teachers

One (1) Front Desk Staff One (1) Houseman

– with a minimum of 5 years experience

Domestic worker – with own vehicle

Experience & Qualifications:

• Ability to communicate, liaise, and negotiate internally and externally using appropriate methods to facilitate the development of profitable business and sustainable relationships • Strong understanding of Microsoft Office applications and ability to troubleshoot/diagnose computer and network issues • Manage and maintain effectiveness of IT • 5+ years project management experience • 5+ years managing and executing marketing plans • 5+ years computer network experience • 5+ years experience in legal contract drafting and negotiation • 5+ years experience in troubleshooting computer hardware/software issues • 10+ years sales experience • 10+ years experience management, training, and recruiting staff according to company policies and employment laws, ensuring relevant HR procedures are followed

Assistant Manager – Product Development & Operations Experience & Qualifications:

Demonstrated experience managing the full product development lifecycle, including product briefing, conceptual crafting, product line development, costing, prototyping, spec development, manufacturing, designing, testing, release ;; Create, execute and track agile project plans, including the User Story/Acceptance Criteria process ;; Plan and manage sprint cycles. Ensure the timely and bug-free delivery of sprints. ;; Build and lead a high performing internal team of development, technical, engineering, and design staff, while also leveraging external industrial designers, product designers, and vendor/factory resources to develop compelling new products ;; Ability to gather and analyze data and trends by extracting data directly from databases using Microsoft SQL ;; Experience in domain name industry including familiarity with launch and life cycle of new gTLDs. ;; 3+ years experience building hi-profile products and demonstrating a minimum of 3 successful product launches ;; 3+ years experience with agile development methods ;; 10+ years experience strategy development and project management ;; University degree from top-tier university

Assistant Manager – Technology Experience & Qualifications:

;; The ability to work in a collaborative and agile environment using an iterative & incremental approach to development ;; Experience with high-traffic, load-balanced, secure and redundant applications ;; The ability to effectively lead & motivate a team ;; 10+ years programming knowledge including .NET, PHP, VBScript, Pascal, & COBOL ;; 10+ years experience with Transact-SQL and Microsoft SQL Server including Query Analyzer, Enterprise Manager or including SQL Server Management Studio ;; 10+ years experience in domain name industry ;; 10+ years experience managing ICANN accredited registrars

Please email your resume to millsinstitute@gmail.com

Person must be able to work holidays and weekends and be willing to work as a part of a team. Resume can be email to info@ portsofcallresort.com.

Belongers will be given first preference; proof of status is required.

VACANCIES HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER

Grand Turk (Salary T 30 $ 33,360.00) 19th December, 2014 The job holder will be responsible to advise Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments on the implementation of policies relating to the effective use of personnel throughout the Public Service in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance, the Employee Handbook and the Financial Regulations. The successful candidate will be assigned to a number of departments and will have responsibility for coordinating a wide range of human resource functions required by those departments.

Previous applicants need not reapply

DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE

Providenciales (22nd December, 2014) SALARY $55,000.00 per annum The Director of Agriculture will be responsible for the Administration of the Department of Agriculture, the enforcement of Laws and Regulations pertaining thereto. Also the securing and the holding of Borders as this pertains to National Agricultural priorities and control of and elimination of Feral Animals.

SOCIAL WORKER

Grand Turk (22nd December 2014) SALARY: $24,840.00 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for counseling clients and their families, interviewing and assessing foster families and collaborating with other departments and organizations to ensure that the needs of disadvantaged persons in the communities are met.

FIRE SAFETY OFFICER

Providenciales (22nd December, 2014) SALARY: $16,200.00 per annum

Assistant Manager – Development

The incumbent in this position will be responsible for safe guard.

Experience & Qualifications:

• 5+ years programming experience including: C#, SQL Server, Visual Studio 2010, Amazon AWS (RDS, EC2, VPC, Route 53, S3, SES), SVN, HTML, Javascript, jQuery, MySQL, CSS, PHP5, Team City, Java.

• 5+ years experience architecting complex applications and services, planning, designing, and implementing new products • Experience in domain name industry • 5+ years experience reviewing and commenting existing use case documents and sequence diagrams • 5+ years reviewing existing application architecture and proposing performance enhancing solutions.

• Must be fluent (Written & Oral) in both English and French 10779

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Ports of Call Resorts

10773

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

10778

50 CLASSIFIEDS

CLERICAL ASSISTANTS (Various)

North Caicos and Providenciales (22nd December 2014) SALARY: T1 $15,720 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for clerical and administrative tasks to support the daily functions of the Office.

MAGISTRATE

Grand Turk (22nd December, 2014) SALARY: $57,600.00 per annum (tax free) As one of a bench currently comprising three magistrates, the post-holder will be responsible for the conduct of the Magistrate’s Court in Grand Turk of cases regarding criminal, traffic, youth justice, juvenile (care and protection), guardianship and custody of children, maintenance/affiliation and civil matters and coroner’s inquests.

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS Providenciales (16th January 2015) SALARY: US$125,000 per annum

The successful applicant must be able to provide legal advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and other Statutory Bodies in the investigation and prosecution of the full range of criminal offences, and, in particular, direct investigations, prosecutions and related proceedings in connection with serious fraud and money laundering cases.

10790

December 20 – January 2, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

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December 20 – January 2, 2015

December 20 – January 2, 2015

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