TCWN February 1- 7, 2014 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 28 | No. 05| February 1 - 7, 2014

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AG Chambers SEEKS RULING AGAINST PREMIER

The Attorney General’s Chambers has made an application to the Supreme Court for it to strike out a summons by Premier Rufus Ewing which seeks clarification on the authority of the Attorney General under section 41 of the 2011 Constitution. PAGE  5

Fire destroys North Caicos shopping mall

Health Minister promises reforms – But details are limited

PAGE  5

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TCI to become full contributing member of UWI

PAGE  8

Cultural Market vendors could soon face eviction PAGE 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

About seven units and their contents were destroyed

Fire destroys North Caicos shopping mall AN ENTIRE shopping plaza in North Caicos burnt to the ground on Saturday morning (January 25) leaving behind just crumbling walls and blackened rubble. About seven large units and their contents were destroyed when a blaze raged through the rooftop of My Dee’s Mini Mall on Airport Road in Bottle Creek. Firefighters fought for six hours to contain the huge flames while huge explosions inside the property blasted through the windows and ceiling. Nicky Clare, crew manager at Turks and Caicos Airport Authority fire station in North Caicos, explained that they got a call about the incident at about 4am. Four firefighters stationed at North Caicos Airport attended the scene in a single truck and began to hose the far end of the long building with water to control the blaze. “When we arrived the restaurant was on fire, the Money Gram place and the mini mart were on fire,” Clare told the Weekly News. He said intense heat caused liquor bottles and propane tanks inside My Dee’s restaurant, bar and kitchen to explode which in turn caused the roof to cave in.

My Dee’s Mini Mall on Airport Road in Bottle Creek

Once the water tank on the fire truck was empty Clare drove back to the station to refill but one of the tyres got a flat. Fortunately a local business owner was on hand to lend his 500 gallon water truck to the firefighting efforts. Throughout a span of about six

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 Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

hours firefighters refilled the truck about six times before finally putting the fire out at 10.30am, Clare said. He revealed that in his three years working for the fire service in North Caicos this was the biggest blaze he has experienced. Fire prevention officer Ronnie Simmons told the Weekly News that an investigation into the cause of the blaze began on Sunday (January 26). He explained that the extent of the physical damage to the structure has made it extremely difficult to determine the cause of the fire. However eyewitnesses said it began in a unit at the end of the building that housed the electrical supply store and restaurant. The fire then “engulfed” the roof, he said, spreading all the way down the property destroying six or seven units. Only a single liquor store at the far end of the string of buildings remained intact. The destroyed businesses include Mydee’s restaurant, an electrical supply store, a sporting goods store, a large convenience store, hair salon and two empty offices. Simmons stressed that businesses should invest in proper roof separation to prevent incidents like this occurring in the future. North Caicos businessman

Firefighters fought for six hours to contain the huge flames

Huge explosions inside the property blasted through the windows and ceiling

Maxwell Handfield and his wife Yvette owned the entire mall and ran it along with their four sons and their respective families. He told the Weekly news that despite suffering such devastating loss he plans to rebuild and start over. “This is the future for my family,” he said.

Handfield’s other businesses in separate buildings nearby were not affected. These include the builders supply and hardware store, water supply plant and auto parts store. On Monday (January 28) clean-up operations were already underway and the walls of some buildings were being knocked down. (DT and RB)

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Ag chambers seeks ruling against Premier – Files for summons to be thrown out THE ATTORNEY General’s Chambers has made an application to the Supreme Court for it to strike out a summons by Premier Rufus Ewing which seeks clarification on the authority of the Attorney General under section 41 of the 2011 Constitution. In its application, the Crown states that the originating summons is an abuse of process; Registrar of the Supreme Court, David Chetwynd told the Weekly News. Abuse of process is a civil wrong arising from one party maliciously and deliberately misusing court processes not justified by the underlying legal action. The matter will be heard in Grand Turk Supreme Court on Monday (February 3) before Chief Justice, Edwin Goldsbrough. When contacted, Ariel Misick QC - who is representing the Premier – said they are still going ahead with

the court action. Asked if recent evidence by the Premier in an action filed by Trade Wind Industries (TWI) last October questioning the AG’s authority will have any impact on Ewing’s summons, Misick said no. TWI had initially instituted action against the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and the Governor in 2012 for breach of leases and development agreement as well as for defamation. That matter was sent for arbitration by the Court of Appeal on May 9, 2013. In its injunction last year, the company objected to the appointment of the arbitrator by the AG. The company claimed that the appointment was made without the TCIG’s approval or authority. However, while initially sharing TWI’s point of contention - as stated in his affidavit to the court last

– But details are limited

– Opposition addresses payroll tax rumours payroll tax are true. However, the party leader stated that she cannot stand in parliament and support another tax on the people of the Islands. “We cannot continue to tax a shrinking base,” Cartwright Robinson pointed out. “The Government cannot and should not come to the people of these Islands with any additional taxes until it shows where it is addressing the huge costs of healthcare.” She added that in opposing VAT, her party called for greater compliance and a complete review of the revenue streams with great consultations on seeking new and steady streams of revenue. “Aside from this, there must be an aggressive marketing of our country for tourism and investment in order to attract continued 

October - new evidence presented in the TWI case on January 15, 2014 indicated that the Premier has had a change of heart in the matter. In a letter entered into evidence two Wednesdays ago, Ewing conceded that the then AG, Huw Shepheard, was not required to refer back to Cabinet a decision that had already been taken by the interim administration regarding the TWI

Ordinance the Attorney General is the person who brings proceedings on behalf of the Government and is the proper defendant in respect of claims against the Government. However, in his affidavit to the court the Premier stated that this does not relieve the AG of the obligation to obtain the approval and instructions of the Cabinet before instituting proceedings, defending claims or in running litigation. Ewing also observed that if Cabinet’s approval is not obtained then the AG may refer the matter to the Secretary of State for his decision. The action was brought following a number of decisions taken by former Attorney General Huw Shepheard without prior consultation or approval from the elected Government, which makes up the Cabinet. The Premier is of the view that many of the decisions Shepheard took were not in the best interest of the people of the TCI. (DI)

Health Minister promises reforms

Gov’t says public can air views on new tax plan ON WEDNESDAY (January 29) Cabinet gave its approval for public consultations to commence on a Tax Rationalisation Plan which was developed on the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission. The consultations will inform the public about the implications of the plan, a post Cabinet statement from the Governor’s office stated. However, shortly after the press statement was released to the media, rumours of a payroll tax as part of the tax plan were picked up by the Opposition and addressed in a subsequent media statement. In that statement, Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, said that while her party has supported the appointment of the Blue Ribbon Commission, it is not in receipt of the body’s final report and as such cannot say whether rumours of a

Premier Rufus Ewing

claim. The letter was addressed to the acting AG, Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles, and indicated that Ewing’s change of heart occurred after clarifications on the AG’s authority were provided to him by BraithwaiteKnowles. Ewing agreed with the acting AG that the interim administration’s decision in the TWI case - made prior to November 2012 - did not cease on election of the new Government. In October last year the Attorney General Chambers received a court summons in which the Premier questioned its constitutional authority. The question before the court is whether, on the true construction of the TCI Constitution Order 2011, the AG is authorised to institute, prosecute and defend civil proceedings on behalf of the TCI Government without the approval of or informing Cabinet of his intent to do so. Under the Crown Proceedings

REFORMS to healthcare delivery and financing are on their way, but details on when and how are being kept quiet. Minister of Health and Human Services Porsha Stubbs Smith sent a brief statement to the Weekly News on Thursday, January 23, confirming that changes are coming. She listed some of the areas that will be looked at for potential improvement in the coming year and explained that a steering committee has been set up to guide the process. Her comments came after the Weekly News revealed last week that the Leader of the Opposition planned to call for a major investigation into healthcare. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said that millions of dollars of public funds are being spent on a system that is inadequate and unregulated. Just after the newspaper went to press Stubbs Smith offered her opinion on the urgent issue affecting public health and welfare. She explained that on December 11, 2013, she and staff from her ministry presented Cabinet with a concept paper outlining reform plans for the ministry based on feedback from the community and service providers. Cabinet gave approval for the

Minister of Health and Human Services Porsha Stubbs Smith

commencement of the programme and for the establishment of a steering committee. The committee consists of the Deputy Governor, Minister of Health and Human Services, Permanent Secretary Health and Human Services, Permanent Secretary Finance, Director of Reform and Political Strategy, the CFO or his nominee and the adviser to the Ministry of Health. She said that improvements to the “complex healthcare delivery and financing systems” would require a number of things to be in place. The first of these was the implementation of programmes to address the high level of noncommunicable diseases. The country also needs structures to consult with and devolve

governance to local communities. Participation and cooperation of the non-government and government sectors in the delivery of programmes must be increased. There must be more efficient, transparent and affordable funding mechanisms which improve quality and access to services, and finally healthcare performance must be improved. “The Government will closely monitor progress against the milestones for the key reforms and will provide regular updates on progress,” she said. Despite repeated requests StubbsSmith did not comment further on specific details of reform, short term improvements, meetings of the steering committee or on the call for a major investigation. (RB)

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

What can Haiti do?

LAST week Governor Peter Beckingham expressed his disappointment at the lack of efforts made by Haitian officials to curb the influx of illegal migrants to the TCI. He said paying more than $1.2 million a year for interdiction and repatriation is unacceptable. The Governor and Minister for Border Control and Labour Donhue Gardiner met with Haitian consul Karlo Pelissier and urged him and his government to step up. What steps do you think the Haitian government should take to help solve this problem?

Think long term

I don’t think that this problem is going to be resolved anytime soon or it may not be resolved at all. The taste for freedom occurs worldwide whether one goes by boat or plane - everyone is looking for better opportunities. Therefore we should start thinking long term. We can definitely learn a lot from these farmers, teachers etc coming onto our shores. We may think we are better off without the Haitian national but certainly we are not. Remember when there wasn’t any IGA? Sometimes we forget who we are. Let’s treat our brothers with respect!

Pat half the costs

They can start by paying half of the repatriation costs until both sides can solve the problem.

Why the high price?

You can talk as much as you want but the Mexicans sneak into California and Texas, Cubans float into Miami and the Haitians escape independent Haiti anyway they can. Why does it cost $1,300 dollars to keep an illegal for a day or two and then send him or her home on a flight that not long ago cost $200? This needs investigation. What airline is being used and what do they charge? TCI folks each live for a month on less than $1,000.

Brits should support TCI

Unrealistic to expect much from Haiti; they have neither monies nor resources. A bit rich really. Border control along with policing has always been the bailiwick of the UK government. Decades of neglect have brought us to this and the consequences are frightening. We are likely to be overwhelmed. Within context, the UK government gives £13 billion a year in foreign aid to countries it has no responsibility for. India, with space and nuclear programmes and more billionaires than the UK, is one recipient. They say stop it; as monies end up in

Geneva bank accounts of corrupt politicians and officials. The UK prime minister says: “I want to look good.” Pity he doesn’t want to look good in the eyes of the TCI, a dependency he has constitutional responsibility for! If a fraction of those monies were diverted here we might stand some chance of stemming this catastrophe! Trouble is we are too small in the scheme of things to matter.

More patrols

I truly don’t think that the Haitian consul, Mr Karlo Pelissier, cares or is concerned with our issues. I believe that he knows that the more Haitians that leave Haiti, they will be able to better their economic situation and their children’s education if they so wish. They and their families become an economic strain on our already stressed resources like education, healthcare and let us not mention the environment. They keep their living surroundings dirty, and unkempt and I must say that I was appalled at the rundown, unkempt yards and homes in the mid-town area. These areas are in a desperate need of a clean-up and revitalisation because the renters don’t know how to maintain an environment and they continue to live the way that they do in their country. Stop them on the high seas, have more air and sea patrol and let them know that we mean business. If there is any irregularity with persons in authority, such as immigration/customs/ policemen allowing them in our country illegally, they should be punished. Finally, please know that the Haitian government and representatives will do absolutely nothing to curb their citizens’ illegal migration situation.

No concern

The Haitian government could not care less about the exodus from their island. The more that leave, the fewer they have to look after there! Until the Brits step up to the plate and do what they are required by the constitution to do, we will have this ongoing problem. National defence is the job of the Governor and Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Thousands of Haitian migrants attempt to escape their poverty stricken country every year

We are being invaded on a regular basis by a foreign country and they just sit back and worry about repayment of the loans to Lord Ashcroft! Useless twits!

Haiti must pay

Any hope that the Haitian government will do anything meaningful to stop the exodus of illegal emigrants is pipe dreaming! Their country remains an economic basket case, and any person foisted on us becomes our problem rather than theirs. So why would they try to discourage any emigration? The Haitian government also realises that the law of the sea and basic standards of morality will prevent the TCI from turning around any Haitian vessels we intercept because they are hopelessly overloaded and generally unseaworthy. So the end result is the passengers end up on our shores, whether intercepted or not. It seems the only way to put any kind of a slowdown on this illegal immigration problem is to have the Haitian government acknowledge as their responsibility all costs associated with the repatriation of their illegal emigrants, and to have them pay those costs promptly as repatriation occurs. Any refusal by the Haitian government to accept these repatriation costs should be clearly interpreted as a sign that they are prepared to do nothing about the current situation.

Join the party

Welcome to the real world. The Governor and Turks and Caicos Islands is learning what other countries already knew - the Haitian government has no concern or interest in helping the problem of illegal Haitian immigrants for here or anywhere else. You’re on your own. What can the Haitian government do? What they’ve always done, nothing. You’re dealing with a people that are mostly takers and have a different mind-set. Join the party and expect to pay more my dear. Your best bet. Become stronger on illegal immigrants and mean it. This place is too small to be so open to the whole third world. It’s time to face reality. It’s up to you, not them.

Patrol Haiti’s coast

The British are responsible for defence. Why can’t our government insist on the British paying the bill. Maybe the Brits would check into the true

cost of repatriation. The sea of Haitian people living in tents make a frightening trip across 100 miles of ocean upwind an attractive alternative. You will not stop the flow unless you patrol just off the coast of Haiti. Someone with an airline is getting rich on this 20 minute flight. Are they charging $1,000 because the Government says it costs $1,350 to hold an illegal alien for one or two days and send them home?

Bear the cost

It’s a tough one to resolve, but I do believe that Haiti should bear the cost of the repatriation. The cost to house and feed illegal immigrants, not just Hatians, is just too costly. Not to pick on Haitians but a lot of them just do not respect the laws of this country.

Well done Governor

I am pleased to see that the Governor, who is not elected, not a native of the TCI, is taking a proactive step to look out for our interests, while our elected, happy go lucky, Minister of Immigration, gets to sit at Baci’s every other night and practice his English accent. Where is the Minister of Immigration on this issue? Why is he so juvenile and inattentive to serious issues that affect our nation? Why does the Governor, who is not really responsible for immigration being forced, though the inactivity of the Minister take these actions? The Governor has stumbled on a long standing open and revolving door practice in the TCI, where we pay the local airlines millions to take the migrants back to Haiti and the airlines over the years have smuggled them back in. We must face it and admit that we as a people are constantly being sold out by our own, our elect, our so called representatives, our ministers. I think sometimes we can be our own worst enemy. Congratulations to the Governor for taking the lead.

 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

February 1 - 7, 2014

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cabinet approves amended Hotel and Restaurant Ordinance

Former Attorney General Huw Shepheard

Interviews to be conducted this February for new Attorney General THREE months after the former Attorney General Huw Shepheard handed in his resignation under a cloud of criticism, the Crown is finally preparing to interview a number of applicants to fill the position. Although not revealing who the applicants are and which country they are from, Governor’s spokesperson Neil Smith told the Weekly News that many have applied for the job. He said the interviews are to be conducted sometime in February this year. As it relates to the threatened lawsuit against the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, there is still nothing filed in the local courts. This is according to the Registrar of the Supreme Court, David Chetwynd and the Governor’s Office. Shepheard handed in his resignation on October 31, 2013, to Governor Peter Beckingham, at the same time signaling his intention

to sue the TCIG for more than $1 million. That figure covers Shepheard’s loss of income and the damages to his reputation suffered as a result of alleged attacks on him by the Government and the TCI community. In November, the Governor’s Office informed this publication that the Government is in negotiations with the former AG in order to settle the matter out of court. Both the Governor and the Premier’s Office have indicated that no agreement has been reached as yet. Shepheard’s contract – which had been extended for an additional three years by outgoing Governor Ric Todd and which was hotly contested by the Government – was to have ended in 2016. Deputy Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles has been acting as the TCI’s Attorney General since November 1, 2013. (DI)

Gov’t says public ... continued 

fresh monies. “When I began in my profession to market TCI, I was given four points that gave us a competitive edge and the absence of payroll or income tax was a marketing tool that presented an edge,” the party leader said. She said those in office need to listen to the cries of the people as well as be cognisant of what they are doing to the marketing strategy of the country which is in dire need of fresh money through new investments. “I will wait to hear this rumour go away and will wait to hear the Government address the unaffordable costs of this new healthcare system and I continue to eagerly await its aggressive

plan to market these Islands.” In a telephone interview with the Weekly News on Thursday evening, Minister of Finance did dispute the rumours. He stated that there is a menu of tax measures to choose from that will be presented to the public. “The report from the Blue Ribbon has its own views on taxation and its rationalisation and all of that will be presented to the public in the next few weeks. “The public will have a say in what the final decision is and what taxation is adopted,” he added. When asked when the consultations will begin, Misick said they are currently in the process of trying to organise the meetings to begin during the course of February. (DI)

CABINET on Wednesday (January 30) met and approved several initiatives, among which are the proposed amendments to the Hotel and Restaurant Tax Ordinance to come into effect on April 1. The ordinance will now include independent tourism service providers, such as people offering watersports, diving, event management, boat trips, spa operations, among others, a post Cabinet media statement read. The ordinance will be renamed the Hotel and Tourism (Taxation) Ordinance and is set to be presented to the House of Assembly sometime soon. Cabinet also gave its approval for the draft 2014/15 TCI Government budget. The Governor’s release stated that the body also directed that the annual Appropriation Bill be prepared for consideration by the assembly. Additionally, it also approved the preparation of a Supplementary Appropriation Bill to make the necessary adjustments to the appropriated sums for the financial year 2013/14. Meanwhile, the Governor and ministers also gave their approval – in principle – to the long lease of 7.2 acres of Crown land/Airport Authority land located at the north side of Grand Turk aerodrome to Marina Aviation Services Ltd. The land is for the development of a Fixed Base Operation (FBO) and fire hall to accommodate

Governor Peter Beckingham

the aerodrome and domestic fire services. A memorandum of understanding will be drafted to facilitate progress of negotiations and security of funds for the development, the Cabinet release read. Approval was also given for amendments to the Dogs Control Ordinance to reflect a review of the Prohibited Breeds List, it continued. The members agreed that the Dogs Control (Amendment) Bill 2014 should be introduced at an upcoming meeting of the House of Assembly. Lastly, Cabinet also approved the membership of a Medical Tourism Steering Committee. The committee which will be established for a period of one year will develop clear policies for the operation of medical tourism activities in the hospitals in

Under the tree

Providenciales and Grand Turk. Cabinet was also presented with recommendations for approval of the award of a number of contracts by the Procurement Board. These contracts include provision of reverse osmosis (RO) plant equipment building on Salt Cay; design, supply and commissioning of a RO plant on Salt Cay; well-drilling for the Salt Cay water plant; sports track upgrade at Raymond Gardiner High School, North Caicos; purchase of a generator at police headquarters in Providenciales; the appointment of consultants to develop a strategic plan for the TCI tourism industry and the construction of a fish market on West Road, Grand Turk. The Cabinet release added that all contracts were subject to open tendering in accordance with the Procurement Ordinance 2012.

By Benneth Williams

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TCI to become full contributing member of UWI

A GOVERNMENT resolution to make the Turks and Caicos Islands a full contributing member to the University of the West Indies (UWI) was unanimously passed in the House of Assembly on Thursday (January 30). Government will now pay $30,000 as a fixed annual contribution to the Caribbean tertiary institution with effect from April this year. UWI has three physical campuses - Mona in Jamaica; St Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago and Cave Hill in Barbados. There is also the Open Campus, which serves contributing countries. An undergraduate degree programme at UWI is comprised of an economic cost – tuition and a registration fee – and contributing countries pay 80 per cent of the economic cost on behalf of each sponsored student directly to the university central bursar. Currently the TCI pays a full tuition fee for every student it sponsors to the UWI campus, but as a contributing member government will receive a 40 per cent discount

on the economic cost. According to the Premier - who presented the resolution for passage – currently the cost of the 12 TCI students studying on UWI campuses is in the region of $229,144. He said as a contributing country this cost would be reduced to approximately $110,838, which represents a savings of about $118,305. This money, he added, can then be utilised to provide additional scholarship opportunities and also open the door for other students to attend UWI campuses. Meanwhile, if a student is not awarded a Government scholarship and they want to attend that university, the TCIG will still be able to assist the student by absorbing the 80 per cent of the economic cost. According to the Premier, that student will only pay about 20 per cent of the economic cost as their tuition fee. “With those kinds of figures our students will be able to fund themselves through university to get a full-fledged degree without any

kind of assistance from Government other than paying the portion of the economic cost.” He added this is relevant because there is a degree programme in the sciences and arts where students can get a Bachelor of Science for a mere $2,000 a year, where ordinarily they would pay in excess of $15,000 for the same programme. Ewing stated that Government is also keen to increase the number of TC Islanders acquiring bachelor degrees as well as the number of students receiving full or partial scholarships. He noted while the TCI has its own community college which it hopes to strengthen to become a full-fledged university sometime in the future, the Government needs to ensure that students have the opportunity to access tertiary education with full bachelor, masters and doctorate programmes not only internationally, but specifically inside of the region where they can identify themselves as Caribbean people. “Too often we look outwards – and there is nothing wrong with being

trained internationally and I applaud those individuals who are trained internationally - but sometimes we do forget our roots and our heritage. “The University of the West Indies provides that melting pot of experience that each and every TC Islander should have the opportunity to experience not only from an educational standpoint but from a social standpoint because that is the only way we are going to progress our country into nationhood.” He noted that the TCI is the last remaining UK overseas territory and last associate member of CARICOM to become a contributing territory to UWI. In relation to the healthcare benefits for the country, Ewing pointed out that the $30,000 per annum to be paid by the TCIG will also go towards the upkeep of the medical school and to ensure that TCI medical students receive teaching experience available at the UWI hospital. The TCI also stands to benefit from a reduced cost for patients treated at the university hospital, thus

potentially significantly lowering its overseas treatment costs. “Once we become a contributing territory, and if you happen to become a patient in Jamaica and have to go to the UWI hospital those individuals would receive significant discounts in medical charges and fees, almost zilch,” Ewing added. He noted that this is a great opportunity for the country since the TCI’s National Health Insurance Programme increasingly refers more patients to Jamaica. He added that another benefit to full contributing status is that UWI also wants the option of - in the future - establishing a campus either in collaboration with the local college or to acquire land on a lease grant as an educational institution coming into the country. “Some of the conditions for you to become a contributing territory is that you will work with them in such a relationship in the future like partnering with your local institution and having access to land, having continued 

Sizzling six Miss TCI contestants revealed BY DAISY HANDFIELD THE SIX young ladies competing for the country’s most coveted title, Miss Turks and Caicos 2014-2015 were revealed for the first time on Monday (January 28), during an unveiling at Beaches resort. Todeline Defralien, Gabriann Capron, Tashy Forbes, Shante Williams, Shanice Williams, and Codee Coalbrooke are the names of the six beautiful ladies vying for this year’s crown. When contestant Defralien, a news anchor for Sun TV, was interviewed she said that she was very self-determined and motivated. “I stand on my ground, very strong on what I believe in and I also get a little bit shy, but in this competition I will definitely work on that.” Capron spoke about her intellectuality and told the media that she liked reading, singing and dancing. “The main reason I joined this pageant is because I have always been inspired by contestants and I thought that they did a wonderful job - so can I,” she said. Forbes said she wanted to be a voice for young girls and then chuckled and included that she liked apple sauce. Shante Williams said that the competition to her was more about

having fun and enjoying herself. “I am a young lady, just exploring and having different activities and being adventurous.” Shanice Williams, who is originally from Grand Turk and also holds the title of Miss Grand Turk, said she was looking forward to this competition. “I am confident, determined and I am positive that I will be the next Miss Turks and Caicos.” Coalbrooke emphasised how happy she was to originate from the beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands. “I am so happy to have been selected to represent my country thus fur as a contestant, it would be such an honour if I am selected to represent my country internationally at Miss Universe. “I am from one of the most beautiful countries in the world and I am so excited about this pageant.” During the event Premier Ewing took the podium and brought encouraging remarks to the Miss Turks and Caicos committee and to the girls who were competing. He said: “Last year during the first unveiling I was not only impressed with the young ladies that were selected, but also with the organisational team. “I see this as a stepping stone, not only for the person who has the

The six beauties competing for Miss TCI title along with organiser Kazz Forbes and Premier Rufus Ewing

opportunity of becoming Miss Turks and Caicos, but also those who had the opportunity and the courage to step forward…I am sure that those opportunities will bring dividends to them in the future.” President of the Miss Turks and Caicos Organising Committee, Kazz Forbes, has been taking on

the role of organising the Miss TCI beauty pageant for two consecutive years. Forbes said that this year the committee was planning on raising the bar a bit higher. “I had no expectations when I first took on the event… we work really hard, first week we met we knew

exactly what we wanted and we went straight ahead and executed, the support was overwhelming.” The girls will also walk during the Turks and Caicos Fashion Week in March, said Forbes. The unveiling was attended by different private and public sector, sponsors and proud supporters.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Cultural Market vendors could soon face eviction BY DAISY HANDFIELD SELLERS of arts and crafts at the Cultural Market in Grace Bay may soon face eviction if they fail to pay rent arrears. But the vendors claim that lack of access to the beach has lost them vital income from tourists and left them unable to afford the high Government fees. On Friday (January 24) a notice was pinned to the wall of the building opposite Beach’s Key West Village to notify the vendors of an upcoming meeting with officials at the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA). Among the topics to be discussed are “contracts, accounts in arrears and eviction for non-payment on booths”. “You are encouraged to attend to voice your opinions,” the letter from DEMA director Kathleen Wood said. “We are hoping to resolve all outstanding issues in order to foster a productive and profitable business relationship…” The meeting will take place next Wednesday (February 5) at 10am at the National Environmental Centre on Lower Bight Road. This week the Weekly News spoke to several of the vendors who admitted that they have been falling behind on their rent. The traders, who asked to remain anonymous, stressed that it was their only option as they have been barely

making any money since access to the beach closed. One said: “They closed us down because we weren’t paying for months because we weren’t making it.” She explained that a representative visited them last year stating that Government was going to fix the place, but they asked them to hold on until July, so that they could close when Veranda did. “They spent almost two months fixing the place and we weren’t making any money because the place was closed down and when we opened after the eight weeks.” She claimed that even for six weeks while the place was closed there was still no renovation being done by TCIG. “When we came and opened we had to close up again because when the tourists saw that they were renovating the place, they couldn’t come there with everything under construction, so we weren’t making enough to keep up the payments.” The woman said that TCIG was charging them for the entire two months that the place was closed. “There is no way we are making enough right now to keep up with the rent. “We feel helpless; we don’t have nowhere to go and we don’t have anybody to represent us. “First when we were on the beach they said we would have been paying $50, from $50 it went up to $100 and now it is

The crafts market has little to no business, according to vendors

up to $150.” Another vendor who told the Weekly News that she had been working there for about eight years said whenever she was unable to cover her rent her daughter would pay it for her. “Before Beaches took over Key West we were making a few dollars, but now my door only keeps open

because of my daughter.” A senior citizen reiterated that it was very tough for her especially since she had just returned from a month of medical leave. “I just had a surgery on my back and I had one in my eye and I’m still attending the doctor,” she said. She explained that she wrote to the Ministry of Finance stating that

she was currently sick and unable to keep up with her rent. “Only by the grace of God I am alive and surviving. From December 12 I haven’t gotten a dollar as yet; I have no other income, I am only depending on National Insurance.” The Government provided no comment on this matter up to press time despite repeated requests.

Students to attend university for a ... continued 

access to reduce duties or waiving duties if they have to build a faculty.” He added that the TCIG would also have to approve a charter for UWI in the TCI. Support was shown from both sides of the assembly for the resolution, with a number of clarifications as to the economic benefits to the TCI being requested. Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson – a UWI graduate - congratulated the Government on bringing the resolution, stating that it is important to forge stronger ties within the Caribbean region. She also pointed out that if the economic cost is to be sent to the TCIG in February each year, how will the Government work this out as under the new

constitution, the budget must be passed by the end of the financial year and must be laid before the assembly six weeks prior to its passage. She also questioned if the healthcare benefits are covered under the $30,000 per year payment. Premier pointed out that there is no additional costs as it relates to the healthcare benefits to be derived by the TCI. As to the payment and the budgetary allocation, Ewing said that a payment term can be negotiated with the university, as other contributing territories are already using this method to satisfy their own budgetary provisions. He said if a certain number of students are budgeted for, but some do not attend, then the university would owe the Government and this would be credited, and vice versa. (DI)

Side view of the Grand Turk home that caught on fire.

Flames wipe out Grand Turk home A GRAND Turk home under renovation was destroyed during an unexpected fire on Sunday (January 26). No one was injured but the property and its contents were severely damaged in the blaze. Lavern Skippings, a representative from Turks and Caicos Airport Authority, told the Weekly News that at about 4am the firefighters went to collect their fire truck and called on

other standby firemen to race to the scene. Large flames were controlled and extinguished as quickly as possible with no lives lost. Skippings said: “The fire operations in these Islands are based on a standby basis whereby firemen are not stationed at the fire facility on a 24 hour basis. “Firemen are however on-call and are trained to engage machinery and

gear as soon as possible to make way to locations in question.” The house belonged to a Grand Turk couple, who lost everything in the home during the fire. There has still not been any official word as to what may have caused the fire. The Turks and Caicos Airport Authority is in charge of all fire emergencies on the outer islands. (DH)

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Should we legalise marijuana? Thank you for your continued support Dear Editor, I feel like lately every time I turn on the news someone is talking about legalising pot or highlighting that some country or state has just joined the ranks of lawmakers who say yes to hash. The plant is widely used for recreational purposes in the Caribbean and some countries such as Jamaica. History will be made next week when Jamaica is scheduled to open its first medical marijuana company. They stand to gain billions of dollars annually from exports to Canada while other Caribbean countries have yet to seek the legalisation of the drug for recreational or medicinal use. There are arguments back and forth as to its pros and cons, but have we reached a stage where we can hold a debate on the subject whether or not it is beneficial for the Turks and Caicos or other Caribbean countries getting on board? Uruguayan lawmakers are now seeking to become the first country in the world to approve the legalisation of recreational marijuana for adults to regulate its production, distribution and sale. Under their plan their will be four ways to access the drug, medical,

domestic cultivation, membership clubs and pharmacies. Their plan was supported by women’s rights, health, student, environmental and human rights organisations as well as trade unions, doctors, musicians, lawyers, athletes, and academics who support responsible regulation. Of course Uruguay joins Holland, Washington State, Colorado and California who have also sought to decriminalise use of the drug for recreational purposes. North America, South America, Canada, Czech Republic and Israel have done so for medicinal purposes. Why legalise it? Lawmakers argue that prohibition just doesn’t work. While billions of dollars have been spent repressing it, the use of marijuana has increased along with the lives lost in trafficking. In Mexico alone tens of thousands have lost their lives in the drug war estimates in 2012 ranged from 60,000 to 70,000 in six years. Here in the Turks and Caicos Islands it would be interesting to see the numbers on the cost of policing and persecuting persons found in possession of marijuana for comparison. The United States spends some $68 billion a year on its prisoners, 1/6 of

whom are in jail for marijuana related charges. Legalising the drug would see a savings of $11.3 billion as a result. The monetary gains although significant, the main argument for its legalisation is its medicinal properties. Marijuana boasts of a number of significant benefits, such as giving anorexia, cancer or aids patients a renewed appetite, curing insomnia, reducing anxiety and relieving chronic pain. Is the world view changing? Since its prohibition in the 1970s, governments worldwide have been debating the need for an overhaul of their respective drug policies in an effort to encourage experimentation with models of legal regulation of the drug. Amsterdam which legalised the drug for recreational sales in 2004, sees a $600 million a year return on taxes from its sale. Competing for tourist dollars by selling the sun, sand and sea have been highly competitive, should we jump ahead of the competition and hold discussions that could see the decriminalisation of marijuana as it seems to be inevitable? Euwonka Selver, Long Bay, Providenciales

Dear Editor, On November 8, 2013, the resurrected TCI Community College (TCICC) Foundation Board, chaired by Ms Claudette Monroe Clare, and supported by a hardworking, dedicated cast of residents, hosted a gala affair at the Regent Palms Resort and Spa in Providenciales. The primary purpose of the event was to raise much needed funds to support the TCICC in its efforts to provide scholarships to academically deserving students who wish to matriculate at the institution and to enhance the academic offerings and infrastructure at the two campuses in Grand Turk and Provo. The commitment to the tertiary educational development of the young and not so young people of this country, evidenced by the generous financial support of

businesses and individuals (one who anonymously gave $20,000 and Mr Mervin Cox who donated a refrigerator and a stove to the Hospitality Department), resulted in approximately $55,000 to benefit students and the TCICC. As president of the TCICC, and on behalf of the administration, faculty and staff, I want to take this opportunity to thank all the corporate and individual citizens of the TCI, especially those in Provo, for their generous support. I look forward to a continuous, symbiotic relationship with the TCI community, welcome suggestions and ideas as we all strive to meet the educational objectives of our students-clientele and our country. Lee L J Ingham, President of TCICC

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

COMMENTARY

A country that is held hostage COMMISSIONER Sir Robin Auld wrote a letter years ago, long after the Commission of Inquiry was over, asking why the prosecutions had not begun. For many months TCI-paid defence lawyers pled and were granted long extensions, delays. The prosecution team will not risk saying no to them so the country remains stalled taken hostage waiting for a final resolution to the charges coming out of the early 2009 Commission of Inquiry and the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT). Starting out the UK Labour government who permitted the mess that caused the inquiry did not have the nerve to investigate but they decided they had no

By David Tapfer choice except to take back the 2006 Constitution and try to run things themselves. Not until mid-2010 and a year after the takeover were the SIPT and investigations funded by a new Toryled coalition UK government. Now the SIPT team will not give the defence one technical reason to

SPACE IS LIMITED!

appeal any coming court decision. Later after the judgments, we will have to wait out the appeals. Meanwhile the process of ‘wear the country down’ replaces a defence based on facts. Those charged have pleaded not guilty but where are the press conferences explaining the facts that prove their innocence? Some relatives and long established developers have already admitted responsibility, paid fat fines and made restitutions. Only silence from the former leaders. The only public statements are complaints that the prosecutors are enjoying the climate while they wait. However the stall is in the hands of the defence lawyers not SIPT. Helen Garlick said she was ready

to go in 2012. Meanwhile the entire TCI economy is being held hostage. We must wait and will not forget who is causing the holdup. Will trick elections and ineffective Government one day be over and the economy be free to expand and offer honest opportunities and jobs once again? Now we hear about the possibility of a Marriott and other new developments. These are the first ones in years. The first since honest promotion by the interim government replaced what began in 2003. Will building proceed before the prosecutions are well on the way? Time will tell. Meanwhile let us consider what we want from government new schools, a better community college, the right to start a business

without political interference, the opportunity to hold a real paying job, lower taxes and affordable internally run universal healthcare. The $260 million loan and National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) cost will hold TCI children hostage to high taxes for decades to come or until they are retired. We could start right away to take the educational bounds off the children by building schools. Let us stop consulting, travelling and talking about an improved education system and move right now to build what was planned a dozen years ago. Meanwhile there is nothing holding this current Government hostage except themselves.

Please keep your letters to a maximum of 450 words or we may not be able publish it.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

Rotary’s district governor to visit TCI AS PART of his tour of ten of the region’s countries the Rotary Club’s district governor will be visiting the TCI next week. Jeremy Hurst from Rochester, England, will spend his time on the Islands getting to know fellow Rotarians and finding out about the work they do. He also hopes to motivate club members to participate in more service activities and to personally recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals. A statement from the Rotary Club explained: “Governors are elected by the district clubs, two to three years before taking office. “A district governor, is an officer of Rotary International and represents the Rotary International board of directors in the field, leads his/her respective Rotary district. “Each governor is nominated by the clubs of his/her district, and elected by all the clubs meeting in the annual RI Convention held in a different country each year.” District governors provide leadership, motivation, and guidance to Rotary clubs under the general supervision of the RI Board of Directors. Each year, they visit every Rotary

club in the district to draw attention to important Rotary issues and provide special attention to weak or struggling clubs. On Tuesday afternoon (February 4) Hurst will attend a Rotary and Rotaract community presentation at the SNAP Centre in Kew Town, Providenciales, before meeting with the Rotary Club of Providenciales that evening. On Wednesday (February 5) he plans to meet with the Rotary Club of Grand Turk and then tour the island before meeting with the Rotaract Club of Grand Turk. The district governor will be given a tour of Providenciales on Thursday (February 6) and at 7pm he will address the Rotary Club of Providenciales at Pelican Bay restaurant, Royal West Indies Resort, in a meeting that is open to the public. ABOUT THE GOVERNOR Jeremy Hurst was born and raised in Rochester, England in 1961 and attended University College London where he obtained a BSc Hons degree in Land Studies. He relocated to the Cayman Islands on an 18-month contract in 1987 and 26 years later still lives

Jeremy Hurst is Rotary Club district 7020’s new governor

there having put down strong roots in the community.

He joined the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman in 1988 and seven years later in 1995/6 became one of its youngest-ever presidents, at the age of 34. Hurst went on to become assistant governor for the Cayman Islands from 2000 to 2003, during which he assisted in the setting up of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman Sunrise, which has become one of the most active clubs in District 7020. He has served in various district positions, including chairing two district conferences in 2000 and 2007 and, most recently, as future vision chair for 2010/11 and 2011/12.

He also chaired the Rotarians Emergency Disaster Initiative (REDI V) international conference held in the Cayman Islands in 2011. Hurst owns and operates a group of companies offering property and investment related services to private investors, corporations and developers in the Cayman Islands and other Caribbean markets. He and Michelle are newlyweds and between them, have four children ranging in age from 12 to 22. They enjoy travelling and are enjoying visiting the ten countries and sixteen islands that comprise district 7020 during the governor’s year 2013/2014.

Proceeds from chocolate event will go to charity TCI’s chocoholics can make their way down to the Salvation Army’s annual Chocolate Lovers’ Showcase on Saturday (February 1) to experience a variety of chocolate delicacies created by the country’s best chefs. The fourth annual event will be held at the court yard of the Regent Palms resort on Grace Bay.

Residents and visitors who are looking for somewhere sweet and heavenly to attend this weekend can make their way down and satisfy their sweet tooth. All proceeds from this event will be geared to the Salvation Army’s school hot lunch programme. Every ticket that is bought will provide hot lunches for a month for

a school child in need. For tickets information you can call 431-6802. The tickets will include a complimentary glass of wine and tastings. Hotels and restaurants that are participating are Amanyara, Beach House, Blue Haven, Grace Bay Club, parrot Cay, Pelican Bay, Regent Palms, Somewhere and Stelle.

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

Spotlight on the civil service CIVIL servants will be recognised for their hard work through a new programme that highlights top departments every month. The Deputy Governor’s Office launched the scheme on Wednesday (January 29) and the Ministry of Health was the first to be commended. ‘Spotlight: TCI Civil Service’ is part of the strategic vision and plan for 2014 that deputy Governor Anya Williams highlighted last year. It aims to celebrate the contributions of staff across the Islands and will feature a particular ministry, department or staff member every month.

Williams launched the programme by thanking the Ministry of Health staff, particularly the five in house doctors for their “hugely positive contribution”. “This small team achieves so much, being responsible for looking after our primary health, dental and mental health clinics throughout the Islands, as well as carrying out research and studying epidemiology,” she said. “They have great responsibility and highly demanding roles. Through their commitment and hard work they have succeeded through challenging times, with scarce and

Dr Alicia Malcolm, Dr Jameika Harvey, Dr Nadia Astwood and Dr Shandey Malcolm

sometimes overstretched resources, including successfully managing the norovirus outbreak in 2012.” She went on to say that they have helped the social development of the TCI by developing and revitalising

Animals on Grand Turk receive free spay and neutering ONE hundred animals were spayed and neutered on Grand Turk during a free clinic put on by the Turks and Caicos Prevention of Cruelty for Animals (TCSPCA) on January 20 to 26. A total of 41 female and 46 male dogs are no longer capable of making unwanted puppies on Grand Turk along with eight female and five male cats. The visiting vet team also performed six complicated specialty surgeries on older dogs, many wellness exams, more than 30 heartworm tests and hundreds of core vaccinations. The initiative was a collaborative effort by the Department of Agriculture under the guidance of Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Mark Butler and the Animal Health Officer Lance Downridge. Dr Butler arranged for space in the Grand Turk Department of Agriculture offices to be made available for the setting up of the clinic and his department also imported necessary veterinary supplies needed for the surgeries. Minnesota based Dr Meghann Kruck, director and owner of Kindest Cut a high quality spay and neuter service for low income families, together with two of her highly skilled vet technicians, Erin Carston and Lauren Hofland, performed all of the surgeries in just five days. Prior to the spay and neuter clinic being run on Grand Turk, TCSPCA volunteers visited Ona Glinton and Eliza Simons Primary Schools to teach the children how to care for their pets and to encourage them to bring their cats and dogs to the clinic. Members of the TCSPCA said they were very grateful to Education Officer Maurice Ingham for arranging the educational visits to the schools. Numerous TCSPCA volunteers were needed to make the clinic a success and almost a dozen volunteers over a six day period manned the phones, arranged for pick up and drop off of animals whose owners had no transportation, handled paperwork and

several programmes and policies. They include the Clinic Exploration Programme for high school and college students, the National Epidemiology Unit Health Research Internship Programme, the Teen Challenge which seeks brings about awareness to the areas of substance abuse, revitalisation of the Grand Turk Chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous and the recent launch of the Healthy Lifestyle Curriculum to GSAT students across the TCI.

“So, on behalf of the country, their fellow public servants and myself, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the following remarkable individuals: Dr Nadia Astwood, Director of Health Services, Dr Jameika Harvey, Acting Director of Dental Health, Dr Alicia Malcolm, Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Dr Terese Maitland, Chief Epidemiologist, and Dr Shandey Malcolm, Deputy Chief Epidemiologist.”

Training updates for DEMA officers Dr Meghann and her vet techs at work

Proud Grand Turk dog owner leaves the clinic.

documentation for all procedures and also educated animal owners on how to take care of their pets. Executive Director of the TCSPCA, Susan Blehr, arranged for Providenciales’ volunteer surgery technician Ibis Van Wallegham to help the vet team and the trapping skills of volunteer Peter Halstead were also needed to transport animals safely to the clinic. Government Animal Health Officer Dujohn Fulford assisted the volunteers every day by making appointments for surgeries and

picking up the animals. Plans are now underway to run another TCSPCA spay and neuter clinic on Grand Turk this year in late April which will be headed by veterinary team CAAT from Canada. The TCSPCA is will also be working with Dr Butler and the Department of Agriculture to run mobile clinics this year on North, Middle and South Caicos. Those wishing to become a member of the TCSPCA in Grand Turk or to volunteer can call 2476235.

OFFICERS from the Department for the Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) will benefit from instruction on lionfish control and a special UK training conference, thanks to funding from the Governor’s Office. Bosses from the department applied for $10,000 to fund the two projects and on Wednesday (January 29) they received confirmation. Governor Peter Beckingham said: “I am delighted that we have been able to assist DEMA by funding these two important projects as they continue their valuable work protecting and enhancing TCI’s natural environment.” The first project will see ten DEMA officers receive a full day of open-water training on lionfish control. Lionfish are native to the Pacific Ocean but a few years ago were introduced into the Caribbean region, and have had a severe impact on the marine environment. The training, which is also being subsidised by the course providers Aqua Scene TCI and the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF), is an important step towards the development of a strategy to control lionfish numbers in TCI waters. The second of the two projects will see a DEMA officer attend a week-long Port State Control (PSC) training conference in Southampton, UK.

PSC is the inspection of foreign ships in national ports to verify that the condition of the ship and its equipment comply with the requirements of international regulations. The conference is offered annually by the International Chamber of Commerce Commercial Crime Services. It presents the latest developments to the major conventions, regulations and codes related to shipping and maritime affairs, which is essential to officers working within maritime law enforcement. Director of DEMA Kathleen Wood said: “These two projects will provide DEMA with additional technical capacity as it seeks to continue to safeguard TCI’s natural resources. “It has become increasingly clear that lionfish are causing real environmental problems in the region given their high rate of reproduction and aggressive consumption of marine resources. “We are pleased to be able to equip our officers with the expertise necessary to address this issue. “In addition, the Port State Control course will help keep us abreast of the latest advances and developments in maritime law enforcement. “We are grateful to the Governor’s Office for funding the work, and for Aqua Scene TCI and TCRF for providing their time and expertise.”

February 1 - 7, 2014

NEWS 13

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Country’s first cell companies formed EIGHT years after they were made legal, the country’s first two protected cell companies (PCCs) have been formed and registered. On Friday (January 24) the Financial Services Commission announced that this is the first time this has happened since the Protected Cell Companies Ordinance (PCCO) came into effect on the November 1, 2006. PCCs are limited liability companies structured in such a way that the company is separated into legally distinct portions or cells.

The revenue streams, assets and liabilities of each cell are kept separate from all other cells. Each cell has its own separate portion of the PCCs’ overall share capital, allowing shareholders to maintain sole ownership of an entire cell while owning only a small proportion of the PCC as a whole. Kevin Higgins, managing director of the Financial Services Commission, said: “It is encouraging to see that the Turks and Caicos continues to be a competitive choice for establishing a wide variety of

international insurance entities. “TCI regulatory regime continues to support and facilitate the development of the financial services industry and the willingness of these two newly formed protected cell companies to operate from our jurisdiction is for the commission a clear indicator of growth in the sector.” A PCC is seen legally as a single entity but differs from an ordinary company as it allows greater protection of assets. In the Turks and Caicos Islands Section 7 of the PCCO limits the use

UK passport applications now online IT IS now much easier for UK citizens living abroad to apply for a passport replacement or renewal. This Wednesday (January 29) the application process went online and provides lots of benefits over the longwinded postal application service. Now UK citizens can pay online using a range of credit and debit cards, and can track their applications.

In addition the application form is quicker to complete and is built to reduce the chance of errors occurring. The website for Her Majesty’s Passport Office is www.gov.uk/ overseas-passports. There is also a passport advice line (44) 300-222000 or applicants can email overseasnewportccc@ hmpo.gsi.gov.uk if they experience any problems.

British passport renewal is now available online

of PPCs to insurance business. The ordinance gives the Governor the power to increase the type of businesses PCCs may be able to engage in, however such change would require adoption of regulations or an amendment of its related ordinance. The structure of cell companies has been hugely successful as an alternative vehicle for financial services solutions worldwide. A new company may be incorporated as a PCC or an existing

company me be converted to a PCC by the filing of the relevant documents with the Registrar of Companies. All PCCs must have as part of its name the words ‘Protected Cell Company’ or ‘PCC’ Among the countries that boast a large number of registered PCCs are the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, Anguilla, Barbados, and Malta. Further information can be found at www.tcifsc.tc.

The Towers of Babel “An ancient city in the land of Shinar in which the building of a tower intended to reach heaven was begun and the confusion of the language of the people took place.” Gen 11:4–9. The Towers of Babel is a collective of voices consisting of various artists prepared to display their exceptional art forms and foster the inner artist in other individuals; providing a venue for the outpouring of their undeniably unique gifts. This group brings to the stage and page productions rarely displayed on stages in the Turks and Caicos Islands melding with some of the most unique artists the country has to offer. For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.com.

autism awareness

Poet is a dying breed

By Nicole Cox, a mother living with autism

By Olivia Graveley

Lesson time!

OKAY, so now we have gotten past all the pleasantries - early morning warm up, meet and greet of fellow students - now we come to lesson time. What is ironic is that this is both where the school aide shines and disappears. Now, bear in mind that a student’s individualised education plan (IEP) will be what determines to what extent this occurs. And what stands in the IEP is determined by mutual consensus of the school, aide and family. And the IEP can be updated multiple times in the year as needed! This being said, the process that is happing with Josiah is not the ‘standard’, it is just what is happening for him at this point in his IEP. The teacher of Josiah’s class gives a transition statement to cue the class that it is time for them to study whatever the subject is for this half hour. This subject is also written on the board. According to the ABA programme target, Jo must learn to respond in a group setting without needing to be directly addressed. So, at the teacher's cue, Jo should realise that he is being given a directive and must: 1) stop what he is doing 2) retrieve the correct notebook from his desk for this subject 3) open to a new page in the notebook 4) retrieve a pencil for the subject 5) assume the ‘ready to work’ position of feet on floor, quiet hands and eyes on the teacher. Sounds simple doesn’t it? Not for an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) kid! What if he misses the cue or doesn’t want to end his current activity? What if he can’t find the notebook? What if the pages rip? What if his pencil lead breaks? What if one of his

tablemates are engaging in distracting behaviours? Any one or combination of these things can and will go wrong for our wonder kid on any given day. The aide is then to step in. Josiah has visual aids taped to his desk to help remind him of appropriate behaviours. From my position in the back with the help of a pointer, ruler or pencil (to be as non-physically invasive as possible) I must prompt him (preferably without speaking to him) to stay on task or what to do in and out of norm situations. Among these prompts are: “Start working!”, “Keep going”, “Calm and quiet”, “Raise hand for teacher!”, “Eyes on teacher”, “Wait patiently”, “Read the chalkboard”, “Sit properly”, as well as a few others! If needed, I will prompt him by whispering in his ear for context or syntax reminders when he must communicate requests or statements. Not to mention the days when he simply does not feel like getting started, for whatever the reason may be. A token reward system is used with Josiah where he is given stickers on his desk for completing his targets. The award must be something that is a motivator. For him quiet time away from too many kids or his favourite electronic game are items he will work for. A visual of those items at the end of the token slots often is enough to remind him that if he just toughs it out, he gets something he really loves. Eventually, the frequency of those tangible and escape awards can become less as he learns to appreciate verbal praise and affirmation more. But once we get him moving, Josiah has proven to show great pride in his work when completed. So, what does his classwork actually look like? Next week....

There was once a time, when the dead would live forever delving deep into the minds of the weary catching the fish of their youth with bare hands and whispering an ironic voice of the world, which danced across the eardrums and ruptured the stretched skin blocking out the sounds of freedom never thought to be spoken before. The pen glided across the paper and became a quill unwilling to spread wings for the one-dimensional and denying the flight of passage to the unfaithful but now they have aeroplanes, creating turbulence as the engines roar...I think, what have we done? As polluted garble spills from any old mouth and leaks into the still ink resting for breath on the parchment, held steady for centuries by the dam of great minds as the ageing wall crumbles to rocks and falls from the sky ...to curve the way to a new dawn. IS THIS REALLY WHAT POETRY IS BECOMING? Nobody cares for the technique, the true artists - people have forgotten their roots. Now called such words as homosexual... Stereotype me as you please, your passions were born from our tree and the apple doesn’t fall too far, so discriminate as you must. The modern age of culture? Only in an oasis would you hear spoken... Literature’s bastard child, left alone in the streets - to write cardboard box stories and standing on street corners, holding up heritage...asking for change. Deck the halls in the corpse of imagination - poet is a dying breed. (The Weekly News invites budding poets to submit their pieces for publication at tcweeklynews@gmail.com )

Lifestyle... 14

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

Papaya tree THE PAPAYA tree (Carica papaya) is a tropical fruit tree that originated in Mexico and South America. It is now grown throughout the North American tropics, Caribbean and other tropical regions around the world. The fruit of the papaya is also called pawpaw and is eaten raw without the skin. The fruit is sweet, low in calories and high in potassium and vitamin A. Papaya is also used in drinks, jellies, salads, desserts and is also dried and candied. There are many varieties of papaya but the main varieties growing are red lady, maradol and various solo types. To successfully grow papayas you need lots of sunlight, lots of water and good soil. If you give your plant all of these conditions then

you can grow a papaya from seed and generally have fruit in six to 12 months. Plant your papaya plant where it will receive full sun, away from power lines and other trees. Planting one or two more papayas spaced approximately 10 feet away will increase the likelihood of fruiting. The female plants produce fruit and may be cross pollinated with others by insects and wind. There are also plants that may be selfpollinating (bi-sexual). The papaya is a short lived, fast growing woody herb. They generally have a single trunk and grow 10 to 15 feet tall, but some plants have been known to grow taller. Papayas love the heat and sunlight, they are heavy feeders and require regular fertilising.

Weekly Recipe

Lasagne rolls SERVES: 12

INGREDIENTS • 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked lasagne noodles • 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded • 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese • 1 pound firm tofu • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach - thawed, drained and squeezed dry • 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese • 1 (28 ounce) jar pasta sauce DIRECTIONS • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook lasagne noodles for five to eight minutes,

or until just slightly underdone; drain and rinse. • In a large mixing bowl, mix together grated cheese, ricotta cheese, tofu, frozen spinach, and one cup of parmesan cheese. • Lay out a noodle. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture on the noodle then add a thin layer of sauce. • Roll the noodle up, and place seam side down in a 13x9 pan. Repeat for other noodles. Top with remaining sauce and parmesan cheese. • Bake in a preheated 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

The Weekly News is looking for a restaurant, café or personal chef to contribute weekly recipes to the newspaper. For more information call 946-4664 or email tcweeklynews.com.

Adding compost is also recommended. Papayas have large soft leaves and evaporate a lot of water in warm weather, so they need above average watering. Papayas do best in rich soil that

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR For all your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs, please call or write for a free estimate: 332-3381 or denis@naturesplendor.net

is high in organic matter. Make sure your planting location and soil has good drainage to avoid root rot. Generally, fruit is picked when there is 1/5 to 1/3 colour change in the fruit. After picking, keep at room temperature to fully ripen. Ripe fruit will keep four to seven days in the refrigerator. Check the papaya tree periodically for signs of pest infestation and disease. Look for spotting on the

fruits or premature fruit drop. Leaves may become yellowed or brown, they may be streaked, dwarfed or stunted and may display holes. Common pests include the papaya fruit fly, papaya webworm and papaya whitefly. Diseases include ring spot, leaf spot and mildew. Use insecticides and fungicides as necessary; if growing papaya for consumption, use food-grade treatments only.

FASHION AND BEAUTY  I am a Turks and Caicos native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. You can find out more from at itseasher.com or if you have any questions, suggestions or would like to get in touch, email me at easherparker@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter or Instagram @itseasher to get fab instant updates wherever I go!

By Easher Parker

So which shape are you? EYEBROWS are the frame of your face and can either make or break your overall appearance. While good eyebrows seem to be the cultural norm among Caribbean women in general, I still get a ton of questions on how to achieve a perfect arch. The answer to that is simple! You just have to understand how to frame artwork and in this case I’m referring to the shape of your face. Once you learn what works for your face, then everything else will fall into place. Remember to be realistic with yourself. You may be infatuated with someone’s stellar brows but their face may be oval and yours square. You can’t trick nature into believing you have an oval face. Something that looks unnatural for your face can be distracting! Shaping up If you’re grooming your own eyebrows, here is one basic rule: the front of the brow should never fall below the back point of the brow. If things are out of balance in respect to that ratio, chances are you don’t have the arch you desire. You can try using an eyebrow pencil to draw on different shapes to see what looks best. Don’t be ashamed to consult a professional if you’re not too confident in your own skills. There are many certified pros who’d be more than happy to give you an informative input, a few lessons or a shaping if you opt for it. Makeup artist Thea Gangasingh of Thea Makeup Artistry has an eye

for detail when it comes to things like this and welcomes questions. Filling in If you are using black, bright red or purple to fill in your eyebrows, get rid of those pencils. Brown (with the exception of natural blonds) is the ideal colour. That doesn’t mean one shade of brown is a universal hue however. It is up to you to find the shade that best matches your eyebrows and the pallet of your preference. Powder, pencil, gel, wax and even matte eye shadows. As far as application, start at the

centre and work outward towards the tip then back to the beginning of the brow. Remember to use short, feather-like strokes. Apply slight pressure when lining underneath or the end of your eyebrow, either with a pencil or angled brush. Clear brow gel or mascara can be used to tame rebellious hairs or even hairspray! PRO TIP: Highlight and clean up around your arch with a flesh tone concealer a shade or two lighter than your own complexion. Blend with ring finger for natural finish.

February 1 - 7, 2014

Lifestyle... YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University with a Master's Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licenced to practise medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida. Email Tamika at tamikahandfield@yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

Preparing your body for pregnancy ONE of the happiest times of a person’s life is when they find out they are bringing a new life into the world. There’s just something about knowing and feeling that little person as they grow and then getting to meet them as they make their grand entrance. During the time of pregnancy, most women are at their healthiest - many quite drinking, smoking, take their multivitamins and really start to pay attention to what they eat. While these are extremely important practices, it is equally important to prepare your body for pregnancy before you become pregnant. Some common practices to prepare your body for a baby include getting to a healthy or normal weight, taking a folic acid supplement and taking care of any other pre-existing health conditions. Getting to a healthy weight A common practice among pregnant women is to eat any and everything they want while they are pregnant. They would usually say: “I’m eating for two.” However, contrary to popular belief, a pregnant woman only needs to eat about 300 to 400 extra calories during the second and third trimesters to promote optimal growth in her baby. It is important to monitor the amount of weight you gain during your pregnancy because gaining too much can put you at risk of delivering an extremely large or preterm baby. On the other hand, gaining too little weight can also but you and baby at risk. So, aiming for a normal body weight before pregnancy is a good practice so that you help to ensure giving birth to a normal weight baby. Additionally, you will only have to lose your pregnancy weight gain after the baby is born - that’s a plus. Take supplemental folic acid Folic acid is the synthetic form of the natural occurring B vitamin folate. Women who are pregnant or who wish to become pregnant are usually prescribed a folic acid supplement because, among its many uses in the body, folic acid is used to help prevent miscarriages, neural tube defects and other birth defects such as spina bifida. The natural occurring form, folate, can be found in many foods such as leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, and lettuce), okra, asparagus, fruits (such as bananas and melons) and citrus fruits. Taking care of pre-existing health conditions For many women, their pregnancies are happy times filled with lots of future plans, but for a few, pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and anemia can make pregnancies just a little bit difficult. Getting to a healthy weight, exercising, making healthy food choices and working closely with your healthcare provider can help to decrease some of the effects of these conditions and allow you to have an enjoyable pregnancy.

References: www.marchofdimes.com/pregnancy/get-ready-for-pregnancy.aspx www.webmd.com

Nutrition in Demand. A non-profit organisation helping you to 'Eat healthy today...live longer, better tomorrow'. Call 242-3978 or 442-3978.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

fitness Tip  Dr. Joe LeMoine, is an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician. He has worked with many international athletes and at many sporting events on the world stage. He currently practices in Providenciales, at Prime Sports Medicine.

By Dr. Joe LeMoine

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician

Learning to train, compete and win ONE of the latest concepts in encouraging fitness and active lifestyle is physical literacy. Basically this means learning to train, to improve and overcome barriers of entering into new activities without being uncomfortable. As with many programmes this starts at the education and development levels. At the start learning to train emphasises the building blocks of sports performance: balance, agility, coordination and strength. Once these are acquired we then build on these basic tools, developing a collection of skills such as locomotion, ball handling, throwing, catching, climbing and many other sport specific actions. These two elements together are the fundamentals and the specific skills. In younger ages the coaches and instructors have to recognise that the fundamentals are not fully developed

and training or practice sessions should integrate a mixture of fundamentals and sport specific skills. For these younger athletes there are a few basic rules for integrating the fundamentals into training sessions, make them fun and variable. Instruction needs to incorporate clarity, enthusiasm and positive feedback. It is very important to avoid specialisation at an early age; allow the young athletes to experiment playing different positions and different sports.

Free playtime should not be neglected; this allows children to develop their skills and creative thinking at the same time. Parents, teachers and coaches have to remember to be patient. The standard rule for many things in life, including athletic performance, is that to really excel it takes about ten years to develop the necessary skill set. Until the skill set of physical literacy is obtained there is no reason to over-emphasise single sport specialisation especially with high intensity expectations and stressing too much on winning competitions. A good way to look at ramping up for training is three steps: train to learn, followed by train to compete and finally train to win. Any parent or coach needs to remember the primary goal of introducing children to sport: get them to develop a lifelong passion for sport and physical activity.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Protect your small valuables LAPTOP computers, tablets, cellular phones, and other personal electronics continue to be a target of choice for thieves. Why? Because they are small, valuable, can be removed quickly, are easily hidden, and there is a market for them. A thief can sell a stolen laptop, mp3 player, or other device to an unsuspecting used computer store or pawnshop, and easily receive up to half its value in cash. The cost of a stolen tablet, laptop, or other small electronic device is not just its replacement cost, but also the cost of peripherals and accessories, the installed software, the cost of configuring and loading replacement software, and the cost of lost time for the owner while the device is being replaced. An even greater cost (especially if your employer issued your device) is the potential exposure and liability that results from lost confidential corporate and client information. Many times, often after the fact, we think about what we could have done to prevent valuables from being stolen.

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

Here are a few tips to help you protect your personal electronics and laptop computer, whether you’re at home, school, or on the road. Don’t leave your devices in an unlocked vehicle, even if the vehicle is in your driveway or garage, and NEVER leave it in plain sight, even if the vehicle is locked — that’s just inviting trouble. If you must leave your devices in a vehicle, the best place is in the trunk. If you don’t have a trunk, try to conceal them or fit them under a seat and lock the doors. Carry your devices in a nondescript carrying case, briefcase, or bag when moving about. Placing these items in a case designed for computers is an immediate alert to thieves that you have these valuable devices. Don’t leave a meeting or conference room without your laptop or personal

electronics. Take them with you. Lock your device in a safe place when not in use or use a cable lock that wraps around a desk or chair leg. Apply distinctive paint markings (such as indelible markers) to make your laptop unique and easily identifiable. Consider purchasing a theft alarm system specially made for laptops and other electronics. Be aware that if your computer is stolen, automatic log-ins can make it easy for a thief to send inappropriate messages with your account. Use password protection and require a person to log in every time the computer goes to sleep or powers down. Back up your information using cloud-based storage or on portable media such as a CD, DVD, flash drive, or other backup media. Store the discs someplace safe. If a theft does occur, REPORT IT IMMEDIATELY to the police department. Users should have the make, model, and serial number available so police can file a complete report to launch an investigation. Visit www.tcipolice.tc for more information.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

Regional News British taxman wants details of Cayman Islands accounts ‘within 30 days’ UK taxpayers with undeclared income and capital gains held in the Cayman Islands must provide this information “within 30 days” or face “detailed investigation”, according to letters sent out by the British tax authorities. Cayman Islands banks will soon begin providing information to Britain about accountholders that are UK taxpayers ahead of the coming into force of the recently-signed automatic information exchange agreement between the two jurisdictions. The agreement, which is one of several that the UK has signed with crown dependencies and British overseas territories, comes into force in 2016 for information in respect of the calendar years 2014 and 2015. “Anyone with undeclared assets in the Cayman Islands who was thinking that they could put off sorting out their affairs until 2016 will have a rude awakening if they receive one of these letters,” said tax expert Reg Day of Pinsent Masons. British tax authorities have been provided with £994 million (US$1.65 billion) of additional funding and these letters show they

have been gearing up resources, data handling and software capabilities to identify targets for criminal and civil investigations, which would cover the last 20 years. In November, the Cayman Islands became the first of the overseas territories to formalise an automatic information exchange agreement with the UK. The territory has also formally agreed to be part of the G5 multi-lateral information sharing pilot, under which a growing number of countries led by the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain will automatically exchange information about bank accounts held by taxpayers from their jurisdictions. The inter-governmental agreement between the UK and Cayman Islands is an example of ‘UK FATCA’, which is modelled on the agreement that the UK has entered into with the US under its Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). FATCA is designed to prevent tax evasion by US citizens using offshore banking facilities, and introduces reporting requirements for foreign financial institutions

with respect to accounts held by US residents. Under UK FATCA-style agreements, financial institutions in participating territories will have to provide information to their local tax authorities about accounts held overseas by UK residents. This information will then be provided to Britain under the exchange of information agreements. The UK government announced last May that all overseas territories and crown dependencies with significant financial centres had committed to the introduction of information-sharing arrangements. The other participating overseas territories are Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Agreements with the overseas territories are not reciprocal, meaning that information will only flow from the overseas territory to the UK. The agreements with the crown dependencies -Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man -- allow for a two-way exchange of information. (Caribbeannewsnow)

Six Caribbean countries eligible for US visa programme THE United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says six Caribbean countries are among 63 countries worldwide that are eligible to participate in two visa programmes this year. The H-2A and H-2B Visa programmes allow US employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural and non-agricultural jobs, respectively. The USCIS identified the Caribbean countries eligible to participate in the visa programmes as Barbados, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti and Jamaica. Generally, USCIS said it only approves H-2A and H-2B petitions for nationals of countries the Secretary of Homeland

Security has designated as eligible to participate in the programmes. USCIS also said it may approve H-2A and H-2B petitions for nationals of countries not on the list if it is determined to be in the interest of the United States. Effective January 18, 2014, USCIS said nationals of the identified Caribbean countries are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B Visa programmes. It said the notice does not affect the status of beneficiaries who currently are in the United States in H-2A or H-2B status unless they apply to change or extend their status. The USCIS said each country’s designation is valid for one year from January 18, 2014. (CMC)

Thousands in Bahamas to march for hanging -Says social activist Rodney Moncur THOUSANDS of Bahamians will urge the government to “remove impediments to capital punishment” by participating in a march and motorcade on Saturday, event organiser and social activist Rodney Moncur said on Tuesday. His comments came as calls for the implementation of capital punishment have intensified in view of the country’s murder rate. “The society is tired of the number of murders and mayhem which are taking place in the Bahamas and we believe these murders can be reduced through swift justice,” said Mr Moncur. “It calls for correction to our administration of justice. First thing we have to realise is the Attorney General’s office is grossly inefficient and is not working and if you have an inefficient Attorney General’s office then the courts by extension will not function properly. We are marching once again to bring pressure on the Parliament of the Bahamas to remove all of the impediments which prevent persons charged with murder from getting bail and to move all of the impediments which prevent murderers from being executed.” Mr Moncur said an invitation to participate in the march was sent to leaders and members of the three major political parties. He added that DNA leader Branville McCartney

Social activist Rodney Moncur said that “swift justice” is needed.

is the only member to accept the invitation on behalf of himself and his party and is expected to participate in Saturday’s march. “We invited most of the trade unions and have gotten commitments from teachers, Bahamas Public Services Union members, the Bahamas Hotel Catering & Allied Workers Union members,” Mr Moncur added. “The trade union movements have made a commitment and the business community has indicated that they are interested in lending manpower and money.” Mr Moncur said participants in the event will call for the removal of the Privy Council through a Constitutional amendment. In response to the view that statistics show capital punishment is unlikely to deter people from

committing violent crimes, Mr Moncur said: “Capital punishment is a punishment for the individual who offends the law. He and he alone suffers the penalty. If there are citizens who learn from that, and therefore do not commit a murder, that’s wonderful. To those who don’t, however, guess what happens, they will suffer death. That argument that capital punishment should not be carried out because it would not deter murderers is a gangsta argument. In that case, we might as well not enforce every law and let people carry out what they want to. Whenever an individual runs afoul of the law, he deserves to be punished.” Saturday’s march, he said, will show “how you bring political pressure on the government to act.” “The Negro leadership of the Bahamas has been strongly influenced by outside liberal, Nazilike forces which have been opposed to capital punishment. They have hidden behind the Privy Council by telling us it is not them, but the Privy Council that doesn’t allow it. But they could get rid of the Privy Council through a Constitutional amendment. And if they are unwilling to carry out the death penalty, they should resign and let us elect leaders who are willing to do it. We are ready to see a revolution in our society. The government should carry out the will of the people. We are not asking for much; we are saying you have to protect us and give us justice.”

Ganga Persaud said he resigned from his position because of personal issues and not because of any sexual misconduct.

Guyana minister describes allegations of sexual misconduct as ‘libellous’ OUTGOING Local Government and Regional Development Minister Ganga Persaud has denied media reports that he tendered his resignation from the Guyana government because of allegations of sexual misconduct. “I wish to make it abundantly and unequivocally clear that I have had no sexual relations with any minor as is alleged or at all. Neither was such an allegation raised or discussed with me by His Excellency, President Donald Ramotar,” Persaud said in a statement. When he announced his resignation earlier this month, Persaud said it was due to “personal issues presently engaging my attention as well as some additional responsibilities to which I am committed”. But there have been various online news reports concerning the sexual misconduct allegations and Persaud in his statement said he had had become aware of “reports circulating particularly in the social

media which tend to suggest and in some instances allege, expressly or by implication, that I had sexual intercourse of some sort with a minor”. Persaud, who demits office on January 31, said the allegations were seriously libellous and causing him and his family severe public humiliation, embarrassment and trauma. “I hereby request that those circulating these false, malicious and libellous matters of and concerning me, cease forthwith. I have instructed my lawyers to proceed with litigation against every person, entity or company who continue to publish, or repeat the publication of these baseless, malicious and libellous allegations,” the statement added. Meanwhile, general secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Clement Rohee has told a news conference that Persaud was basically fired as a minister.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News Caribbean walks the talk on clean energy policy DESPITE having an abundance of wind and sunshine, Caribbean countries have found that going green is requiring significant shifts in policy, and most importantly, significant financing. But despite these challenges, they are not daunted. Barbados, for instance, which spends an estimated 400 million dollars annually on fossil fuel imports, has announced plans for a wind, gas and solar energy programme that requires almost one billion dollars in investments. “Plans for the area include a 680-million-dollar waste-toenergy plant; a leachate treatment plant costing about 31.9 million dollars; a landfill gas-to-energy

project to cost 9.4 million dollars; a solar project costing 120 million dollars; and a windto-energy facility projected to cost 24 million dollars,” said Environment Minister Dr. Denis Lowe. The climate change financial adviser at the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Selwin Hart, said the region’s premiere financial institution has identified the promotion of renewable energy and increased energy efficiency as a strategic priority. “The bank is in the process of developing an energy sector strategy and policy which will be finalised in

Dominica gets Britain’s nod to establish CCJ as final appellate court BRITAIN has given Dominica its approval to adopt the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the island’s final court of appeal, according to the Caricom Secretariat. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit disclosed on Thursday that he received a letter from British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, indicating that the British Government agrees and has no objection to Dominica recognizing the CCJ as its final appellate Court. Skerrit said with this approval, there is no need for a referendum. The Prime Minister, according to the Jamaica Gleaner, said Dominica is pleased to become the first island of the Organisation

of Eastern States to move towards adopting the Caribbean Court of Justice as its final Court of Appeal. He says he believes the move will deepen integration and pave the way for other countries to become full members of the regional court. In expressing his pleasure at the news, Caricom Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque said: “This heralds a positive start to the year for the integration movement. It is my hope that Dominica will lead the way for those other Member States with similar constitutions. I look forward to the early passage of the required legislation so that Dominica can join Barbados, Belize and Guyana in completing its circle of sovereignty.” (Stabroek News)

Some Jamaican police to wear body camera by mid-2014 JAMAICA’S National Security Minister Peter Bunting recently said that select police units will start wearing body cameras soon, even as concerns are being expressed over the allegations of extrajudicial killings and professional misconduct by members of the constabulary. Making the disclosure at the weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House in St Andrew, Bunting said the project to deploy body-worn cameras for select Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) units is scheduled to commence rollout in the second half of this year. “The purpose of this project is to improve the collection of evidence of criminal activity in an effort to

prosecute and reduce such activity, improve the transparency of JCF activities when interacting with the public, to encourage JCF officers to act in accordance with the force’s professional standards to include the appropriate use of force, and to create a record to protect JCF officers from unfair allegations of violations of JCF professional standards,” Bunting told journalists. “The Government of Jamaica is committed to reducing the level of crime and violence that has taken a terrible toll on this nation. As part of this commitment we will be taking all necessary steps to ensure that the JCF becomes one of the most trusted and respected institutions in Jamaica,” he said.

2014,” he told IPS. “[But] we are not waiting until that policy is finalised for us to make the necessary interventions within borrowing member countries giving the priority and urgency attached to making these investments,” Hart noted. “We will be supporting the policy and regulatory reforms that are necessary to ensure the deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technology.” Citing the region’s “vulnerability to the negative effects of climate change”, Hart said the Caribbean must be in a position to secure some of the financing needed to help it cope, adapt and reduce vulnerabilities to the serious fall-out from the phenomenon. “We are extremely vulnerable when it comes to the consequences of climate change and we must do everything to receive our fair share of the resources being made available,” he said. Hart told IPS global investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency have quadrupled over the last decade and now stand at 244 billion dollars a year.

Barbados, for instance, which spends an estimated 400 million dollars annually on fossil fuel imports, has announced plans for a wind, gas and solar energy programme that requires almost one billion dollars in investments.

“The cost of renewables, and using solar, as an example, have fallen significantly and are now for the most part cost competitive with traditional sources of energy,” he said. The International Energy Agency (IEA) in its World Energy Outlook 2013 conservatively estimated that by 2035, renewables will surpass coal as the main fuel for power generation. In 2012, another Caribbean country, Belize, which currently generates 63 percent of its electricity

from renewable energy sources, announced plans for a National Energy Policy and a Sustainable Energy Strategy. “We have ambitious targets. We have set ourselves to change from fossil fuel to renewable energy and at the same time decrease our energy intensity,” Energy Minister Joy Grant told IPS. “We are pursuing all types of renewable energy – hydro, bio energy, solar, ocean, thermal and wind and waste-to-energy,” Grant added.

Pastor: Bahamian web shops are ‘raping families’ EXACTLY one year after the legalisation of numbers was rejected in a referendum, a local pastor urged Bahamians not to support web shops, which he claimed continues to “rape” people every day. Mario Moxey, senior pastor of the Bahamas Harvest Church at Prince Charles, said earlier this week that the business continues to flourish because citizens tolerate the lawlessness that illegal numbers has created. And despite the longevity of the numbers racket in the country, Mr Moxey insisted that the victory at the polls last year proves that the Bahamas possesses a clear picture that it remains grounded upon Christian values. He spoke to about 60 supporters gathered in Rawson Square at a service of thanksgiving to God for the outcome of the January 28, 2013 referendum. Later, organisers of last year’s “Vote No” campaign recorded the anniversary of the resounding “no” vote to web shops by signing a billboard. “It is our tolerance,” Mr Moxey said, “which allows police escorts to transport Her Majesty’s inmates back and forth from the prison to the court house for stealing and breaking and entering while passing 25 or more number houses that are raping brothers and sisters daily in

Pastor Mario Moxey insisted that the victory at the polls last year proves that the Bahamas possesses a clear picture that it remains grounded upon Christian values.

this nation. “Hundreds of millions of dollars are being exacted, not from residents in the gated communities, but rather from those over the hill. Habitual players are being enticed to the number houses that rape them every day of the little they do have and then send them home to their families with empty stomachs and empty promises that their luck will soon turn around. “These number houses are symbolic of the shackles that brought

our ancestors to these islands. Too many of our brothers spend their days spinning it away, chained to the computer terminals in hopes that they will win big.” However, Pastor Lyall Bethel of the Grace Community Church, said although the group was in a celebratory mood, his feelings were “bitter sweet.” Mr Bethel called on politicians to act according to the wishes of the 52,000 people who voted against web shops. Only 31,000 others voted in favour of the business.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

February 1 - 7, 2014

Ukraine still ‘on the brink’ as Klitschko calls amnesty proposal ‘unacceptable’ WILL giving Ukraine’s antigovernment activists amnesty help avert what its first modern-day leader fears will be a civil war? Hardly. Wednesday night’s vote by parliament to let those who have taken to the streets the past two months off the hook is the latest attempt to try to lower the temperature on the crisis in the Eastern European nation. A top legislator announced that all factions had approved the amnesty law, yet the opposition didn’t rally around it. In fact, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, head of the Fatherland Party, said he didn’t even know what was in the hastily moved legislation. And the most prominent opposition leader, the Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for Reforms’ Vitali Klitschko, said he and his supporters could not stand behind a move that basically called for an end to protests without real change beyond freeing the 218 activists who the Interior Ministry says have been arrested. “People took to the streets because they want to change the situation,”

Ukrainian protesters use a huge catapult to throw stones at riot police as tires burn in Kiev on Thursday, January 23.

Klitschko said. “A statement, ‘We will free people, if they go home’ is unacceptable. It cannot be understood. “Today, the key issue is the confrontation between people and government,” he said. “Withdrawal of charges and amnesty is not enough.” Especially compared to last

week’s violent confrontations, Kiev’s snow-covered streets were calm Wednesday. Still, the tension, the anger, the determination was evident, especially among those hunkered down in makeshift barricades in the central Independence Square and a road leading up to parliament. “I think the people should not leave the barricades,” one Kiev

resident told CNN. “Nothing is decided yet, let them decide -- now they just promise but don’t make decisions. People are being tricked. They are tired of it.” This Ukrainian isn’t the only one who believes time may be running out. So, too, does Leonid Kravchuk, who between 1991 and 1994 was Ukraine’s first President after it became independent from what had been the Soviet Union. He addressed a special parliamentary session aimed at seeking a way out of a deepening political crisis. The parliament won’t reconvene until February 4, and the opposition hasn’t announced its next move. That leaves the volatile situation in limbo, much like its been for weeks. Kravchuk said there’s real urgency to find an answer to this crisis, even if the answer itself is not clear. “Let’s be honest, the situation

is dramatic. Both Ukraine and the world recognize the country is on the brink of civil war,” Kravchuk said. Wednesday’s emergency session came after a day of political upheaval when Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and his Cabinet resigned and draconian anti-protest laws were annulled. Opposition politicians and activists welcomed the concession -- with Klitschko calling it “a logical step” but only one of many needed. Parliament also voted Tuesday to repeal controversial anti-protest laws rammed through January 16. Members of President Viktor Yanukovych’s Party of Regions overwhelmingly, by a show of hands, backed the repeal, but the president still hasn’t signed it. Anger over those laws had the inverse effect of escalating tensions in the capital, with police and protesters fighting pitched battles amid burning tires and barricades.

Man fatally beats girlfriend, her daughter with hammer for being ‘witches’ A DERANGED man armed with a claw hammer bashed his girlfriend and her 25-year-old daughter to death because he thought they were witches who cast a spell on him, police said. Carlos Alberto Amarillo, 44, was carrying a Bible and screaming, “I killed them! I killed them!” when cops reached the Queens bloodbath about 12:15 a.m. Wednesday. In a chilling 911 call, Amarillo confessed that he “assassinated” girlfriend Estrella Castaneda, 56, and her daughter, Lina Castaneda. He also said he wanted “the police to kill me.” “I killed them because they are witches,” Amarillo allegedly told cops, insisting the mother and daughter had cast a voodoo hex on him. “I killed them with a hammer.” Lina Castaneda’s 7-year-old daughter was spared in the vicious attack, officials said. She was found in a bed just feet from her dead mother, who was left facedown on her bedroom floor. A bloody hammer was next to the mom’s body. The little girl was turned over to her father, sources said. NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton called the senseless crime an “extraordinarily sad circumstance where a couple of innocents were killed.” Records show there were no previous domestic violence complaints involving Amarillo and the women.

Daniel Ortega (left) can now serve how many terms he wants.

Nicaragua: Ortega allowed to run for third successive term Alleged murderer Carlos Amarillo, center, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He’s accused of bludgeoning to death his girlfriend and her daughter.

The suspect had one local arrest on his record. But the 2005 case was sealed and no details were available Wednesday, a police source said. Cops called to the grisly crime scene at 24-10 87th St. in East Elmhurst found Amarillo in front of the building. Officers walked into a second-floor apartment and found the younger woman on her bedroom floor. The older woman, discovered in another bedroom, had a pillow over her face. Police said there was blood on the bed and on the wall behind Estrella Castaneda. The rubber grip of a hammer lay on the bed beside her,

officials said. Camilo Alvarez, 23, lives two doors down but still heard the sound of the hammer bashing the victims. Amarillo was held on two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. If convicted, he faces life in prison without parole. Amarillo choked back tears as he was dragged out of the 115th Precinct stationhouse Wednesday night. It was unclear Wednesday night if Amarillo, who was taken to Queens Criminal Court, was being treated for mental problems.

THE Nicaraguan National Assembly has approved changes to the constitution that would allow President Daniel Ortega to run for a third successive term in 2016. The bill scraps limits to the number of terms Nicaraguan presidents can serve. The opposition says the changes are a threat to democracy in the impoverished Central American nation. Mr Ortega’s Sandinista Party argues that Nicaragua needs longterm stability to deal with its problems. Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the region. Its main export is being threatened by coffee rust, a fungus affecting plantations across Central America. “This constitution is not the solution for our problems - poverty or coffee rust - but it allows us to move forward,” said the Sandinista leader at the assembly, Edwin Castro.

The constitutional changes were approved by 64 votes to 25. One independent lawmaker and 63 Sandinistas voted in favour; only three members of the assembly missed the vote. The National Assembly had approved the bill on a first vote on 10 December. The reform also scraps the current rule, which says that the winning candidate needs to receive at least 35% of the vote to be appointed president. Opposition legislator Maria Eugenia Sequeira, from the rightwing Independent Liberal Party, said the reforms “were designed to serve the interests of the current president.” “It is more of the same in the history of Nicaragua,” she added. Mr Ortega, 68, is a former leftwing guerrilla who led a successful revolution against the dictatorship of the Somoza family, who ruled Nicaragua for four decades.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

UK Immigration Bill: Terror suspects may lose citizenship

Earlier this month China test its first hypersonic glide vehicle which can travel 10 times the speed of sound.

China a growing military threat to U.S.: Opinion EARLIER this month, largely unnoticed by the international media, China took a significant step toward rendering defense systems across the globe obsolete. On January 9, China conducted a test of its first hypersonic glide vehicle, believed to be capable of travelling at 10 times the speed of sound. The test comes at a time of growing regional concern over Beijing’s increasingly assertive territorial claims, including the announcement in November of unilaterally declared Air Defense Identification Zone over the East China Sea. For those China analysts that see a more ominous future ahead, such actions are not unrelated, but instead part of a concerted effort on the part of China to return the Middle Kingdom to its former glory and displace the United States from the region. And, based on public statements and writings from a variety of Chinese government sources, China seems to believe it is reaching conventional parity with other Asian states in the region. True, some argue that China is deluding itself, contending that Chinese naval forces are not even a match for the Japanese Navy, much less the U.S. Navy. The same could be said of Chinese airpower. Yet the reality is that China likely has no intention of matching Japan or the United States ship for ship and plane for plane. While China is trying to build an expeditionary navy, the strength of its forces is rapidly shifting toward ballistic missiles and other asymmetric capabilities. And, as the hypersonic glide vehicle test demonstrates, China is getting extremely good at building them. For example the DF-21D, a socalled “carrier killer” missile, has an estimated range of about 900 miles, and could make it virtually impossible for the U.S. Navy to get close enough to the Chinese coastline to intervene, for example, in a Taiwan contingency. More optimistic China watchers suggest that none of this is anything to worry about, pointing to the economic interdependence of China

and the United States as evidence. Whether it is analysts arguing that China has enormous leverage because of the size of the U.S. debt to China, or those suggesting that China actually needs its second largest trading partner more if it wants to continue growing, many believe there is just too much at stake economically for the two sides to come to blows. And yet, recent Chinese moves threaten to destabilise Asia, and by extension America’s significant economic interests in the region. China, it seems, is intent on continuing to push forward with its military interests while betting the United States will try to keep economic relations separate. Is this plausible? Recent experience suggests that China’s government may be right, and Beijing may be able to push the envelope further and further. After all, the great powers have not engaged in open conflict since World War II. But this view is far too complacent and is actually a misreading of history over the past six decades. Remember, although tensions between the United States and Soviet Union did not break out into open conflict, the Cuban Missile Crisis is but one example of how the Cold War left the world a miscalculation or two away from nuclear catastrophe. And even short of that, it’s important to remember that shots were indeed fired by both sides. In fact, during the Cold War, the United States lost 15 aircraft to Soviet interceptors, and downed three Soviet aircraft. While tragic, these instances did not lead to World War III. The question, though, is whether China will have drawn the lesson that a naval or aerial engagement or two that helps push it closer to its territorial goals might be a risk worth taking? Meanwhile, counterintuitive as it may sound with China having tested a nuclear delivery capable glider, Beijing may actually believe that it will be able to consolidate its strategic position by opposing nuclear arms.

THE home secretary is seeking powers to strip terror suspects of UK citizenship even if it leaves them stateless. The amendment to the Immigration Bill could see naturalised citizens whose conduct is deemed “seriously prejudicial” lose their nationality. People with dual nationality can already lose their British passports. It comes as the government faces backbench rebellions over the rights of foreign criminals and Romanian and Bulgarian migrants. BBC political correspondent Iain Watson says critics of coalition policy on the Conservative back benches are concerned that the Immigration Bill does not go far enough and believe there has been a concerted attempt to deprive the Commons of enough time to discuss their amendments. Home Secretary’s Theresa May’s last-minute addition to the list of about 50 government amendments to the Immigration Bill would not apply to people born in UK. The Home Office insists the powers would be used sparingly and in strict accordance with the UK’s international obligations. It

The amendment to the Immigration Bill could see naturalised citizens whose conduct is deemed “seriously prejudicial” lose their nationality.

also has the support of the Lib Dem leadership, who accept it would only apply in a tiny number of cases. Immigration Minister Mark Harper said: “Citizenship is a privilege, not a right. These proposals will strengthen the home secretary’s powers to ensure that very dangerous individuals can be excluded if it is in the public interest to do so.” But the legal charity Reprieve has described the plan as an “alarming development” saying it would give

the home secretary power to “tear up people’s passports without any need for the kind of due process”. The home secretary’s move follows a UK Supreme Court ruling in October that said she was wrong to take away citizenship from a terror suspect who became British after leaving Iraq in 1992 as a refugee, leaving him stateless. The Home Office is appealing against the decision in favour of Hilal Al-Jedda, who now lives in Turkey.

Seventy odd years before all children have access to primary school -UNESCO IT WILL be more than 70 years before all children have access to primary school, says a report from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). World leaders had pledged that this would be achieved by 2015. The report says 57 million remain without schools and at the current rate it will be 2086 before access is reached for poor, rural African girls. Report author Pauline Rose describes these as “shocking figures”. The lack of education for all and the poor quality of many schools in poorer countries is described as a “global learning crisis”. In poor countries, one in four young people is unable to read a single sentence. The study from Unesco, published on Wednesday in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, is an annual monitoring report on the millennium pledges for education made by the international community. But it warns that promises such as providing a primary school place for all children and increasing the adult literacy rate by 50% are increasingly unlikely be kept. It also warns that aid for education is declining rather than increasing

UNESCO says some 57 million remain without schools.

and is not being targeted at the poorest countries with the greatest need. It reveals that the single biggest recipient of aid for education is China - which receives aid worth a value 77 times greater than Chad. The report, based on the latest data which is from 2011, shows that there are still 57 million children who do not even get the first basics of schooling. More optimistically, this represents an almost 50% drop in out-of-school children since 2000.

The report shows that if the early momentum had been sustained the goal could have been achieved. But since 2008, progress has “all but ground to a halt”. Conflict zones Countries such as India, Vietnam, Ethiopia and Tanzania have made considerable progress in expanding the reach of education. There are also improvements in quality, with Vietnam now among the most impressive performers in the OECD’s Pisa tests, overtaking the United States.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Stem cell breakthrough may be simple, fast, cheap which can be coaxed into becoming any other kind of cell possible. One method effectively boils down to this: Put the cells in an acidic environment. “I think the process we’ve described mimics

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

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Cook (Temporary)

MINISTRY: Office of the Premier LOCATION: Grand Turk PURPOSE OF JOB To provide excellent meals and maintain standard hygiene and cleanliness of kitchen and dining areas in the facilities. KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Cook meals as required. • Ensure no unauthorised items or persons enter the establishment. • Provide healthy, nutritious and well prepared meals. • Provide catering and food preparation services at the facilities. • Highlight any issues to the attention of the Supervisor. • Assist in the security and safe keeping of kitchen equipment and tools. • Ensure that Kitchen and Dining areas are maintained to a high level of cleanliness. • Use hygiene and food preparation standards at all times. • Purchase provisions as necessary. • Adhere to all Public Service codes, rules and regulations. • Perform other related tasks as assigned.

Mother Nature,” said Dr. Charles Vacanti, director of the laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston and senior author on one of the studies. “It’s a natural process that cells normally respond to.” Both studies represent a new step in the thriving science of stem cell research, which seeks to develop therapies to repair bodily damage and cure disease by being able to insert cells that can grow into whatever tissues or organs are needed. If you take an organ that’s functioning at 10% of normal and bring it up to 25% functionality, that could greatly reduce the likelihood of fatality in that particular disease, Vacanti said. This method by Vacanti and his colleagues “is truly the simplest, cheapest, fastest method ever achieved for reprogramming [cells],” said Jeff Karp, associate professor of medicine at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital and principal faculty member at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. He was not involved in the study. Before the technique described in Nature, the leading candidates for creating stem cells artificially were those derived from embryos and stem cells from adult cells that require the

insertion of DNA to become reprogrammable. Stem cells are created the natural way every time an egg that is fertilized begins to divide. During the first four to five days of cell division, socalled pluripotent stem cells develop. They have the ability to turn into any cell in the body. Removing stem cells from the embryo destroys it, which is why this type of research is controversial. Researchers have also developed a method of producing embryoniclike stem cells by taking a skin cell from a patient, for example, and adding a few bits of foreign DNA to reprogram the skin cell to become like an embryo and produce pluripotent cells, too. However, these cells are usually used for research because researchers do not want to give patients cells with extra DNA. The new method does not involve the destruction of embryos or inserting new genetic material into cells, Vacanti said. It also avoids the problem of rejection: The body may reject stem cells that came from other people, but this method uses an individual’s own mature cells. “It was really surprising to see that such a remarkable transformation could be triggered simply by stimuli from outside of the cell,” said

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SALARY $596.70 Bi-weekly HOW TO APPLY Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

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Haruko Obokata of the Riken Center for Developmental Biology in Japan in a news conference this week. The process is called STAP, which stands for “stimulustriggered acquisition of pluripotency.” Karp estimates that the method is five to 10 times faster than other means of reprogramming cells. Researchers used mice to study the STAP cell phenomenon. They genetically altered the mice donating stem cells to “label” those cells with the color green. For instance, they modified mice such that their cells would light up green in response to a particular wavelength of light. The scientists exposed blood cells from these genetically altered mice to an acidic environment. A few days later, they saw that these cells turned into the embryonic-like state and grew in spherical clusters. Scientists put the cell clusters into a mouse embryo that had not been genetically modified. It turned out, the implanted clusters could form tissues in all of the organs that the researchers tested. The scientists knew that the cells came from the original mouse because they turned green when exposed to a particular light. Besides modifying acidity, researchers also stressed the cells in other ways, such as lowering the oxygen environment and disrupting the cell membrane. Increasing acidity was one of the most effective methods of turning mouse blood cells into STAP cells. There are, of course, some caveats. For now, the STAP cell procedure has only been demonstrated in cells from young mice. The effectiveness in humans, and the risks, are unknown. Researchers have not yet shown how STAP embryoniclike stem cells compare with bona fide embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, Karp said.

9483

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Applications should be addressed to the Director, Office of the Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Submitted via Facsimile: 9461582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: Cook-Office of the Premier. Envelopes should have the subject: Cook-Office of the Premier marked on the front.

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purposely putting mature cells under stress. Two new studies published Wednesday in the journal Nature describe a method of taking mature cells from mice and turning them into embryonic-like stem cells,

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February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Alcohol linked to skin cancer risk SCIENTISTS believe drinking too much alcohol could set off a chain of reactions in the body that makes the skin more vulnerable to cancer. Ethanol is converted to acetaldehyde soon after ingestion and this compound may render the skin more sensitive to harmful UV light, they say. The authors of the work in the British Journal of

Dermatology admit that other forces may also be to blame. Drinkers may lounge in the sun without enough protective clothing or suncream. According to their work, which looked at 16 different studies involving thousands of participants, consuming an alcoholic drink or more a day increases skin cancer risk by a fifth. Risk increased proportionately with alcohol

Full time nurse’s aid needed For evening and weekend work for B. Dallamano. Position is live in and candidate must have a car. Salary $5.75/hour.

intake - those who drank 50g of ethanol daily (the equivalent of a few strong beers) were up to 55% more likely to develop the deadliest form of skin cancer called melanoma compared with non or occasional drinkers. Dr Eva Negri, one of the study authors who is from the University of Milan, said: “We know that in the presence of UV radiation, drinking alcohol can alter the body’s

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Ethanol is converted to acetaldehyde soon after ingestion and this compound may render the skin more sensitive to harmful UV light, scientists say.

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immunocompetence, the ability to produce a normal immune response. “This can lead to far greater cellular damage and subsequently cause skin cancers to form. This study aimed to quantify the extent to which the melanoma risk is increased with alcohol intake, and we hope that armed with this knowledge people can better protect themselves in the sun.” (BBC)

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FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ;Minimum ; 10 years experience ;International ; recognized culinary qualifications ;Ability ; to supervise, train, motivate and mentor team members ;Strong ; communication and interpersonal skills ;Previous ; international work experience, ideally in the Caribbean Candidates should apply to info@bohioresort.com or PO Box 179, Grand Turk Please include a covering letter, resume and references with all applications.

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QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN FOR A DIVE COMPANY NEEDED Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years experience servicing and repairing the following: • 1st and 2nd Stage unbalanced regulators from Scuba Pro, Aqualung, and Mares (all models) • Mako and Bauer compressors. Must be able to completely service and repair regularly • Air Whips • be qualified to visually inspect air cinders. • repair tank valves Successful Applicant must be a PADI instructor in good standing and fluent in English and French

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Delivers revenues and profits by developing, marketing, financing, and providing appealing restaurant service; managing staff. • Must have at least 10 years experience in managing busy restaurant. • Must be bilingual, friendly and self motivated. • Must know POS system. • Must have catering experience and knowledge of wine. • Must liaison with hotel manager and guests. • Must establishes restaurant business plan by surveying restaurant demand; conferring with customers/guests; identifying and evaluating competitors; preparing financial, marketing, and sales projections, analyses, and estimates. • Must control purchases and inventory by meeting with account manager; negotiating prices and contracts; developing preferred supplier lists; reviewing and evaluating usage reports; analyzing variances; taking corrective actions. • Must maintain patron satisfaction by monitoring, evaluating, and auditing food, beverage, and service offerings; initiating improvements; building relationships with preferred patrons. • Must ensure all employees are trained, motivated and empowered to deliver total customer satisfaction • Must uphold company food safety, food handling and sanitation requirements, to ensure the health and safety of our customers and employees In addition to the above applicant must have strong verbal and written communication skills and highly organized. Salary for this position depends on qualifications and experience, sales and net sales. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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9468

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February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Californian winemaker Merry Edwards

Representatives from Grace Bay Club, Graceway Trading Limited with Merry Edwards and her husband, Ken Coopersmith in the centre

One of California’s first female winemakers visits the TCI BY DAISY HANDFIELD ONE of the first woman winemakers in the state of California, Merry Edwards, was introduced during a press briefing held at the Grace Bay Club on Monday (January 27). Edwards was in the country to host a dinner put on by the Grace Bay Club in conjunction with Graceway Trading Limited on Thursday (January 30). Edwards, who celebrated her 40th year in the wine business in 2013, said that she was extremely proud to be in the TCI hosting a winemaker’s dinner. “It is just so relaxing here, I can’t believe the setting,” she said, “I have never been to the Turks and Caicos

Islands before.” Edwards and her husband, Ken Coopersmith who live in River Valley California, now manage five estate vineyards which include Coopersmith, Cresta d’Oro, Flax, Georganne and Meredith. This estate production is maintained by Edwards along with several other dedicated growers. “Our winery is very small, we are basically family ran,” she explained. “We produce small quantities of boutique Russian river valley chardonnay, pinot noir and sauvignon blanc.” The contact between Graceway IGA and Edwards was established five years ago when she sold some wine in the Islands and was then later

contacted by the company to sell to some of the high end resorts. Aside from the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, the Turks and Caicos Islands are the only other Caribbean country that Edward does business with. Director of food and beverage at the Grace Bay Resorts, Wolfgang Von Wieser, was excited to have such a prominent winemaker in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “It is such an honour to have such a famous winemaker here at the resort with us,” he said. Edwards was in the Turks and Caicos Islands along with her husband for a full week and during her stay she toured the various hotels around Providenciales.

Fish Fry celebrates first anniversary AN EVENING of food and entertainment that has become a weekly highlight of TCI’s cultural calendar celebrated its first anniversary last night (Thursday, January 30). The Island Fish Fry, which takes place every Thursday at the Kid’s Park in the Bight, is always crowded with tourists and residents alike in search of tasty treats and great music. This week the event celebrated one year with prize giveaways, speeches, music and shows. Among the entertainers keeping the crowd revved up were The Island Boys, Breezy Beach Dancers, TUCA, Fire Dancer and Henry the Conch. Speeches were led by the Chairman and Director of the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, Director of Culture David Bowen and Lime representatives.

The Island Fish Fry, which takes place every Thursday at the Kid’s Park in the Bight

There were also cheque presentations to the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) and the Sports Department as well as rewards for vendors and suppliers. The MCs for the night were Director of Culture David Bowen and Michalia Clare.

The Turks and Caicos Tourist Board put on the special event in collaboration with the Department of Culture and telecoms company Lime. More photographs and information on the event will feature in next week’s edition of the Weekly News.

The Regent Grand has been selected among the top luxury hotels in the region

Luxury hotel voted among best in region A LAVISH hotel on Grace Bay has been voted one of the best in the Caribbean in this year’s Trip Advisor ‘Travellers’ Choice’ awards. It is the fourth successive year that The Regent Grand has been selected among the top luxury hotels in the region, and the best in the TCI. Development manager Paul Slattery said: “This is a marvellous achievement for our luxury boutique hotel. “The Regent Grand Staff have worked exceptionally hard since the resort opened in 2008 to provide excellence in value and service. “We will continue to strive for the quality that has become expected of us, with our goal being to make sure we secure this award for 2015 and future years.” In the ratings the hotel was placed number 11 in the Top 25 Luxury Hotels of the Caribbean, number 13 in the Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean. In addition Grace Bay beach

placed number two in Best in the World, just behind Rabbit Beach in Sicily. The Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice winners are based on the opinions of millions of real and unbiased reviews posted by the world’s largest travel community. In the 12th year of the awards, the world’s most outstanding properties were identified in the categories of top hotels, bargain, bed and breakfasts and inns, family, luxury, romance and small hotels. Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for Trip Advisor, said: “We’re excited to recognise the world’s best properties, based on the opinions of those who know them best – the millions of travellers around the globe who come to Trip Advisor to share their experiences.” The Regent Grand on Grace Bay is a boutique hotel with gym, restaurant and infinity pool set among four acres of lush landscaping.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Dear Advertisers: Once again the country’s leading news outlet and most effective print advertising medium is planning another supplement. As you have supported the last two successful Christmas supplements, we are canvassing for your support for our upcoming Valentine’s Day Supplement. And, as its name suggests, the supplement will provide an excellent venue for the display and exposure of your Valentine’s Day Specials and relevant sales messages for this particular time of year. Again we are planning to produce an attractive publication, full of your ads and sales messages, designed to draw customers to your store to help boost your business for Valentine’s Day. Our graphic designers are on hand to design that special ad for you, or to readjust an existing one, for a small fee. And our writers are also available to help you create that special article to promote your store or service for special season. Publication of the supplement is set for February 7, and deadline to submit ads is February 4. For further information please contact the Weekly News at (649) 946-4664 or Dierin Longmire at (649) 246-2526.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Prisoner presents artwork to Governor AN INMATE proved himself to be a talented artist when he presented his latest creation to Governor Peter Beckingham on Tuesday (January 28). Kenneth Prospere, who is currently residing at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk, is not letting his time incarcerated go to waste. He has spent much of his imprisonment improving his impressive art skills and they were evident during a presentation of his most recent painting this week. “I was very touched by this thoughtful gift from Kenneth,” Governor Beckingham said.

“Art can be a very constructive use of energy for people in prison, and I hope that their ambition to set up a properly organised art club in the jail comes to fruition. “I hope that Kenneth perseveres with his unique talent and that it offers him some hope in all of his future endeavours.” The painting depicts the Governor and Premier Rufus Ewing holding the FIFA World Cup. Prospere said he is now working on a portrait of Deputy Governor Anya Williams and is considering a future portrait of Her Majesty the Queen.

ENTERTAINMENT

Naya Rivera: Fiancé Big Sean ‘wears the pants in our relationship’ NAYA Rivera is gleefully taking charge of her life. But she gladly lets her fiancé Big Sean wear the “pants” in their relationship. “I think he’s going to be an amazing husband, and he’ll make a great father someday,” she told Cosmopolitan for Latinas’ spring issue. “He’s so kind to people, but he also wears the pants in our relationship, which I love.”

The 27-year-old “Glee” star boasted about her strength and the ability to get what she wants out of life. Still, she knows her place when it comes to her rapper beau whose real name is Sean Michael Anderson. “We Latinas are very independent and strong,” she continued. “So it’s even sweeter that I’ve found somebody who can let me out of that role for a minute.”

Prison Superintendent Ian Sargent, prisoner Kenneth Prospere and Governor Peter Beckingham with the painting

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

Mahone says he’s not dating Gomez: ‘We’re just friends’ JUSTIN Bieber must be relieved: Austin Mahone says he’s not dating Selena Gomez. The “What About Love” singer has dispelled talk that the two were an item, according to People. “We’re just friends, Mahone told the magazine Wednesday. “She’s really cool. I mean, I think she’s really pretty but every time I’m in L.A., she’s like ‘Hey you’re in L.A., lets hang out.” A source who claims to know both Gomez and Mahone told People that the two are not a couple. “Maybe they are more than just friends but they are certainly not dating,” the source said. A source close to the “Come & Get It” songstress also told the Daily News the pair are not dating. Us Weekly had reported Wednesday that Taylor Swift played

Austin Mahone is not dating Selena Gomez, according to People. The two were rumored to be an item by Us Weekly.

matchmaker for her 21-year-old gal pal Gomez and the 17-year-old Mahone.

“They’re seeing each other,” a source close to Mahone told the mag of the two pop stars.

Lorde’s birth certificate released to dismiss rumors about her age

Lorde who won two Grammy awards, including Song of the Year, is indeed 17 years old.

IF YOU ever questioned whether Lorde is really a teenager, wonder no more. The Hairpin website published the Grammy winner’s birth certificate on Tuesday to resolve rumors that the singer was older than her publicly stated age of 17. The site ordered a copy of the document from Lorde’s home country New Zealand, and Hairpin writer Emma Carmichael said that the certificate “effectively shuts down any lingering doubts in regards to Lorde’s real age.” She added that the site obtained the document in response to online speculation, with some doubters (jokingly) dubbing

themselves “Lorde age truthers.” Besides verifying the “Royals” singer’s age and birthdate — Nov. 7, 1996 — the document also revealed the teen’s full name: Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O’Connor. Lorde has had an eventful week: She won two Grammy Awards on Sunday, held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. One of her awards was Song of the Year for “Royals,” which she also performed during the show. The pop star expressed her gratitude in a full-page ad published in the Wednesday edition of the New Zealand Herald, which coincided with her triumphant return home to play a concert in Auckland.

Elizabeth Banks would also star in the film.

Banks to direct ‘Pitch Perfect’ sequel WE LIKE what we’re hearing about the “Pitch Perfect” sequel. Elizabeth Banks, who produced and starred in the original 2012 comedy with Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow and Rebel Wilson, is going to direct the 2015 follow-up, she confirmed on Twitter. “Acabelieve it,” the 39-year-old actress joked of the news on Monday. “Pitch Perfect 2” will be Banks’ first time directing a feature film, and she’s also on board to star in the project as well. According to the Hollywood Reporter, which first broke the news, Kendrick and Wilson are expected to return, and the the first film’s screenwriter, Kay Cannon, is tackling the sequel, too.

“Pitch Perfect,” adapted from Mickey Rapkin’s book, was a solid success at the box office, earning $113 million worldwide on a $17 million budget. According to the chairman of studio Universal, Donna Langley, the film - which follows a college student who finds herself making the unlikely choice to join an a capella group originated with Banks. “Elizabeth originated the idea for ‘Pitch Perfect’ and was instrumental in making the first film such a huge success,” Langley told THR. “She brings an enormous amount of energy and experience to everything she works on and we’re thrilled that she is making her feature directorial debut on ‘Pitch Perfect 2.’” (Marquee)

Daft Punk wins album and record of the year at 2014 Grammys IT WAS a “Lucky” night for Daft Punk. The robot-headed duo won record of the year for the hit “Get Lucky” and album of the year for “Random Access Memories” at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards Sunday night. Daft Punk was typically silent, but singer-songwriter Paul Williams accepted the album of the year award with a generous speech. Williams, who’s written such songs as “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “Evergreen,” had struggled to overcome substance abuse problems over the years. “Then I get sober and two robots asked me to make an album,” he said.

Pharrell Williams, who sang on “Get Lucky,” accepted the award for record of the year. The Grammys also often manage to single out rising artists, and this year that meant Lorde, Kacey Musgraves and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. Lorde earned the third of the big three awards, song of the year, for “Royals.” The honor is a songwriters’ award. “Thank you to everyone who has let the song explode,” she said, also paying tribute to co-writer Joel Little. She also won a Grammy for best pop solo performance. Musgraves won for best country album. Macklemore & Lewis, who were nominated for seven awards, won four at Grammy Awards.

“I want to thank our fans, the people that got us on this stage,” said Macklemore in accepting the award for best new artist. The pair also took home rap album (“The Heist”), rap performance and rap song (both for “Thrift Shop”). Macklemore & Lewis beat out some tough competition in the rap categories. Their album was up against offerings from Drake and Kendrick Lamar, and “Thrift Shop” defeated songs by Jay Z and Kanye West. Jay Z, who led all artists with nine nominations, did win best rap/sung collaboration for “Holy Grail,” a collaboration with Justin Timberlake. Addressing his daughter Blue, Jay Z said, “Daddy just got a gold sippy cup for you.”

Daft Punk won two of big awards.

Macklemore & Lewis’ “Same Love,” a song written in support of same-sex marriage, was performed on a set resembling a church.

Macklemore’s rap was followed by a mass wedding featuring 33 couples taking the stage of Los Angeles’ Staples Center.

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment Bieber charged with Toronto limo driver assault

Prince’s legal team singled out 22 individuals said to be distributing music illegally.

Prince fans’ shock at $22m piracy action FANS of Prince have expressed shock at the musician’s $22m (£13m) legal action against 22 people for posting copies of live performances online. Court documents list the individuals said to have distributed bootleg recordings using Facebook and blogs. “Doing things like this is making him lose more and more fans,” wrote one fan on a major Prince fan forum. However, other fans rushed to defend the singer’s right to protect his vast back catalogue of material. The action, filed earlier this month, reads: “The defendants in this case engage in massive infringement and bootlegging of Prince’s material. “For example, in just one of the many takedown notices

sent to Google with respect to Doe 2 (aka DaBang319), Prince identified 363 separate infringing links to file-sharing services, with each link often containing copies of bootlegged performances of multiple separate musical compositions.” The documents go on to outline a range of blog sites and Facebook profiles where live renditions of classic Prince tracks such as Purple Rain and Little Red Corvette could be downloaded, or where links to such material could be found. Fans on the long-established Prince.org forum suggested that although the action was surprising, it was not out of character for Prince. The 55-yearold has often used legal battles to crack down on unauthorised distribution of his music.

After over three decades Motley Crue has decided to call it a day.

Motley Crue members sign group death pact to break up after ‘Final Tour’ ALL four members of Motley Crue signed an agreement Tuesday that will permanently dissolve the legendary rock group after a final tour. Vince Neil, Mick Mars, Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee appeared in a Hollywood hotel Tuesday for a signing ceremony for a “cessation of touring agreement,” which their

lawyer said would bring a peaceful end to the group. “Other bands have split up over rancor or the inability of people to get along, but this is mutual among all four original members and a peaceful decision to move on to other endeavors and to confirm it with a binding agreement,” attorney Doug Mark said.

CANADIAN pop star Justin Bieber has been charged with assaulting a limousine driver in Toronto last month. The 19-year-old handed himself in at a Toronto police station where he was mobbed by TV crews, news photographers and screaming teenage fans. The charge comes a week after the star was arrested for a separate incident in Florida and charged with drink-driving. A lawyer for the singer said his client was innocent. Toronto police say that Justin Bieber was one of six people picked up by a limousine outside a nightclub in the early hours of 30 December. “While driving the group to a hotel, an altercation occurred between one of the passengers and the driver of the limousine,” a police statement said. “In the course of the altercation, a man struck the limousine driver on the back of the head several times. “The driver stopped the limousine, exited the vehicle and called police. The man who struck him left the scene before police arrived.” After surrendering to police on Wednesday, the singer was charged with one count of assault and is scheduled to appear in court in Toronto on 10 March.

Just last week Justin Bieber appeared before a Florida judge by videolink from jail.

Howard Weitzman, Mr Bieber’s lawyer in California, said the entertainer was innocent and that he expected the case to be treated as a summary offence, which is the equivalent of a misdemeanour in the United States. Earlier on Wednesday, a petition requesting Mr Bieber’s expulsion from the US attained 100,000 signatures. The petition was filed on a White House website by a member of the public. The US president has no power to order an individual’s deportation, and it is unclear whether the White House will respond to the petition. Justin Bieber has had several runins with police over the past year.

In the early hours of last Thursday, he was arrested in Miami Beach after a police officer pulled him over on suspicion of racing a hired yellow Lamborghini on a public street. Suspecting he was intoxicated, the officer arrested him. The singer was also charged with resisting arrest and driving on an expired licence. Mr Bieber was later released on bail of $2,500 (£1,500). Earlier in January, police in California searched Mr Bieber’s home after he allegedly threw eggs at his neighbour’s house, causing thousands of dollars in damage.

Tarantino sues Gawker over Hateful Eight script link US director Quentin Tarantino has sued gossip website Gawker for contributory copyright infringement after it posted a link to a leaked screenplay. A link to The Hateful Eight script remained on Gawker’s Defamer blog on Monday despite demands from Tarantino’s lawyers to take it down. They argued the site had effectively cost him royalties he might earn from the eventual publication of the script. But Gawker said posting a link was part of its job to provide information. “News of the fact that it existed on the internet advanced a story that Tarantino himself had launched, and our publication of the link was a routine and unremarkable component of our job: making people aware of news and information about which they are curious,’’ the site’s editorin-chief John Cook said. In a post, Gawker added it would be fighting the case, adding that, to its knowledge, “no claim of contributory infringement has prevailed in the US over a news story”. The lawsuit seeks damages of

Quentin Tarantino says he will no longer produce The Hateful Eight as a film after the leak.

$1m (£603,000) against Gawker as well as $1m against the anonymous file-sharing site where the leaked script was hosted. Tarantino has previously published scripts of his films, a practice that in the past has earned him hefty royalties and advances. “There was nothing newsworthy or journalistic about Gawker Media facilitating and encouraging the

public’s violation of [Tarantino’s] copyright in the screenplay, and its conduct will not shield Gawker Media from liability for their unlawful activity,” the lawsuit states. The lawsuit also alleges the leak was originally only limited to a few people, and The Hateful Eight script did not appear online until after Gawker posted an item encouraging anyone who had a copy to leak it to them.

28 CLASSIFIEDS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MESSENGER BAPTIST CHURCH Providenciales Telephone: 341-5811, 241-3609

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. SILVER DEEP Is looking for a

T-BONE CONSTRUCTION Is looking for an

9501

THE HELP DESK (241-7734) acting on behalf our clients to fill following positions:

QUALITY SUPERMARKET Painter $6.00/Labourer $5.00

ISLAND PAINTING COMPANY

Painters $7.00 per hour.

labourer Electrician To work 6 days To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 946-5612

9404

per week salary $8.00 per hour. contact: 241-5325

9521

RIGBY BUILDERS

Labourer $5.00, Mason & Carpenter $8.00 per hour.

KITCHEN HELPER

Needed for a busy restaurant in Providenciales. Salary $5.50 per hour

JOB VACANCY Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the position of

Airport Traffic Compliance Officer The Airport Traffic Compliance Officer’s role is to see that patrons and taxi drivers comply with necessary rules and regulations in accordance with the Road Traffic Ordinance and TCIAA standards whilst on airport property.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Monitor and assist taxi dispatch operations as conducted by taxi drivers and ensure seamless operations. • Monitor taxi parking lot for upkeep and report unauthorized vehicles parked there. • Direct passengers upon curbside arrival • Ensure that taxi vehicles and drivers are licensed and approved to operate from the Providenciales International Airport

Skills & Qualifications:

CONTACT 941-8408 for interview with your resume 9433

• Must have completed High School • Must possess strong leadership ability • Must be willing to work morning and night shifts Hourly wage is $9.30 over a 44 hour work week Interest persons must submit their applications before February 14, 2014 to:

The Human Resources, Training & Development Manager Turks & Caicos Islands Airports Authority, Providenciales International Airport, Turks and Caicos Islands Telephone # 649-941-8692, Fax # 649-941-5996. Email: info@tciairports.com

JOB VACANCY

9409

Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services On behalf of his clients:

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the position of

IT Administrator

ALTAGRACIA

is seeking employment for the following:

Job Overview:

The job of the Information Technology (IT) Administrator covers a wide range of systems, equipment and the company’s Local area Network. The successful applicant will be responsible for the continued operation and maintenance of the company servers, workstations, printers, fax, Airline shared use system, self-check-In Kiosks, time clock system, CCTV Security and access control systems. Computer hardware and related devices repairs is required for all systems. Applicants must have: Degree in Electronic & Computer Technology or a related field and a minimum of 5 years working experience as an IT Administrator.

Working Experience on

• Windows 2000, XP and Windows 7 • MS Exchange, Active Directory and other mail protocols such as IMAP • Microsoft Server 2003, 2008 & 2012, MS-Sql and Oracle • Remote control tools such as Dameware and RDP • Systems virtualization, VMware virtualization environment, Extended Airline Shared Environment • Airline/Airports check-in and boarding systems, self check-In kiosks and systems • Networking skills including TCP/IP and the ability to configure network printers • Awareness of all mainstream mobile technologies (RIM, Android, Apple etc.) • Experience supporting and maintaining an asset database, accounting software’s and database Detailed Job Descriptions are available from the Main Office of the TCIAA at the Providenciales International Airport or via email from info@tciairports.com.

1) Waitress 1) Kitchen Helper

Starting Salary is negotiable. Interested candidate may contact 345-5003 for further details regarding employment.

TCI Waste Disposal

is seeking employment for the following:

1) Mechanic 1) Labourer

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com further details regarding employment

Dayne Allenbary Pratt is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Interested candidate may contact 247-4507 further details regarding employment

Solon Georges

Interested persons must submit their applications before February 14, 2014:-

is seeking employment for the following:

1) Fisherman

Interested candidate may contact 344-9209 further details regarding employment

Ricardo Fulford Contracting

is seeking employment for the following:

3) Tile Man 1) Labourer

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com further details regarding employment

Lissette Parker

is seeking employment for the following:

1) Baby Sitter

Interested candidate may contact 244-1504/347-1639 further details regarding employment

L.P.S.

Is seeking employment for the following:

1) Domestic Worker

Interested candidate may contact 346-6622 further details regarding employment

Interested candidate must contact the number advertise for further details regarding employment.

9508

Ricardo Fulford, Immigration and Labour Consultant, President of Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services ricardofulford@gmail.com. (649) 346-1125

9399

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

DELICIOUS DISHES Is looking for the following positions:

ESTEL PLUMBING Is looking for a

2 Cooks

Salary $7.00 per hour

Labourer labourer Salary $5.00 per hour

Must be willing to work 6 days per week

Contact: 347-0720

9460

to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-0397

9470

LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER Applicants must have 5 years experience as a housekeeper and nanny can work with minimum supervision in doing household chores such as cleaning, cooking, washing, ironing and with patience in caring for children, can communicate in English well and know how to drive is a must Applicant must be willing to travel with the employer and to work late hours and holidays if the need arises Salary $800.00 per month with free food and accommodation Please drop all applications to Enviromental Arts located at #65 Beechwood St., Grace Bay or email: Natalie@ enviromentalarts.tc and address to Natalie Zaidan Successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview

EBEN-EZEN WATER

9473

QUEEN OF THE SEA RESTAURANT Is looking for a

Is looking for a driver to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 342-6193

9475

CLASSIFIEDS 29

Cashier

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 341-3426 9445

Qualified PADI/NAUI SCUBA Instructors Needed Successful candidate will be a PADI MSDT with current membership and insurance, resort operations experience including advanced level instruction, dive accident management, compressor maintenance, equipment and engine maintenance and repair, applicant must be willing to train. STCW95 required and captain’s license preferred. This is a tourism related job and will include all aspects of the company’s daily routine including but not limited to, teaching all levels of instruction, guiding dives, boat and vehicle operations and working the front office. The work schedule will include weekends, public holidays and occasional night dives. Starting Salary $380 - $500 per week based on experience and qualifications. Contact David Volkert at 946-4232 or info@provoturtledivers.com Positions available starting May 15, 2014. Please submit applications before March 1, 2014

9455

GENERAL MANAGER

Requirements include: • Functions as the Strategic Business Leader of the resort. Position oversees the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives. Focuses on target customer needs, employee satisfaction, growing revenues and maximizing financial performance of the resort. • A keen understanding of marketing / public relations / advertising strategies, and the ability to create sales and marketing plans. • At least 12 years experience in managerial role at high-end hotel/resort with in-depth knowledge of luxury marketing, sales. Brand experience a must. • Sound knowledge of all aspects of resort operation and finance. • Exceptional verbal, written and strategic planning skills. • Strong organization skills. • Ability to effectively direct labor productivity. • Financial management skills e.g., ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning. • Ability to use standard software applications and hotel systems – Opera (Fidelio), Micros. • Strategic planning skills. • Ability to evaluate business trends, determine applicability to customer profile and modify business strategies accordingly. • Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others. • Ability to network and build relationships to grow the business. • Strong problem-solving skills; encourages new innovative solutions when appropriate. • Must be willing and available to work all days and shifts. Duties include: • Responsible for strategic planning and long-term vision and projects • Oversee day to day management of entire resort including development and implementation of process and management guidelines. • Occasional travel abroad representing the resort in marketing and public relations tradeshows. • Review financial data and prepare executive reports for owners and international management company. • Oversee managerial and other staff to ensure high guest satisfaction and employee retention.

INTERNATIONAL PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Requirements include: • 5+ years experience in international purchasing in a luxury hospitality environment; while negotiating domestic and international contracts, increasing total quality of the goods, and fully organizing proper container shipments

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience. • Must be Computer literate, Microsoft Office, MXP. • Must have advanced knowledge of Food & Beverage quality standards, health compliances and specifications. • Must have product knowledge of food, beverage and hotel consumable/durable items. • Knowledge of Marine Exchange Procurement is an advantage. • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English, with additional other language is an advantage. • Flexible, ability to work independently and under pressure. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts. Duties include: o Forecast procurement needs based on historical data and analysis. • Maintain procurement management database. • Upgrade regularly Marine Exchange Procurement software • Liaise with brokers and support customs clearances. • Liaise with Accounts Payable Department to ensure accurate and timely payment of invoices • Monitor inventory control and spending in order to make recommendations and identify areas for possible savings. • Ensure all merchandise delivered to the store room have been properly received and documented. • Conduct physical inventories of the storerooms and prepare requisitions for all departments to bring items up to par stock levels. • Supervising and training of Purchasing and Warehouse employees

FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Requirements include: • 10 years experience in F & B Management in luxury hospitality with at least 3 years experience as F & B Manager. • Strong track record of maintaining consistent standards, continually training outlet staffs and promoting an atmosphere of teamwork. • Strong financial skills, track record of building/increasing outlet revenue. • Experience implementing new F&B concepts. • Exceptional knowledge of different types of cuisine and wine including how menus are developed, pricing guidelines and how to improve results. • Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays to reflect the business needs of the hotel. Duties include: • Plan and manage the Restaurants, Room Service and Banquets, as appropriate, in order to achieve guest satisfaction, quality service, and compliance with corporate/ brand policies and procedures while meeting/exceeding financial goals. • Develop and implement special promotions and employee incentives. • Create department budget and financial reports, and monitor status to adjust as appropriate.

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Human Resources Department by submitting an updated resume, or by emailing to marjorie.dorsett@ regenthotels.com no later than Friday, February 22, 2013.

9459

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LOCAL SAND TOP QUALITY LEWIS WALKIN

232-7317 or 342-1222

FOR SALE

9537

February 1 - 7, 2014

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

CARLA PROSPERE Is looking for a

domestic worker To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 345-5481

9420

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TURQUOISE NATIVE CRAFTS SOUVENIRS

NATHANIEL GARDINER Is looking for a

Is looking for a

domestic Craftsman worker to work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-5678

contact: 244-7692

9437

9434

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

TOUCH OF BLISS

Turks and Caicos Islands Softball Federation

Cosmetologist

Requires an experienced

Is looking for a

with 10 years experience Should be able to do: • Bridal Styles • Highlights/ Low Lites • Relax • Color • Cut blow dry with brush • Pedicures and Manicures Salary $5.00 per hour 5 days per week.

For information contact: Georgette Dallas 242-3439 9319

Softball Umpire

Must have several years’ experience and must hold a certification from the Turks and Caicos Islands Softball Federation. Salary negotiable. Must be available on weekends and evenings.

Fax resume to 941 7626 9518

IS LOOKING TO EMPLOY

ASPHALT EQUIPMENT OPERATORS AND LABORERS

To work 5 days per week. Salary ranging from $7.00 to $12.00 per hour. Applicants must be willing to work on weekends and holidays. Perspective applicants must have experience in asphalt work.

Please submit applications to main office. C5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

CLASSIFIEDS 31

aTTORNEY GENERAL CHAMBERS LANDS DIVISION CROWN LAND UNIT

TENDER NOTICE FOR CROWN LAND The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) is in receipt of a proposal to acquire a leasehold title over Parcels 60706/68 & 69, situate at Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales, together comprising of 1.0, approximately – as shown and depicted on the MAP, Annex 1, attached, for a commercial related development. In the spirit of good governance and in keeping with Section 34 of Crown Land Ordinance 2012, we would like to open the tender process for competing tenders to this parcel of Crown Land. This process promotes transparency and helps to mitigate against favouritism and corruption; as well as affords the Government the opportunity to get the best value for the land. The parcel is located in Downtown Providenciales and is currently zoned for commercial development. All bids for the development of this parcel must be guided by the Project Proposal Guidelines, attached hereto as Annex 2, and also found on the TCIG website - www.gov.tc. All bids must be submitted to the Procurement Board and must be accompanied by the appropriate non-refundable application fee payable (please refer to the schedule of fees (also attached)) at any Treasury location within the Turks and Caicos Islands. Closing Date of Tenders: The closing date for all Tenders is 9:00 am on Thursday, 20th February 2013. Bids are to be enclosed in a sealed plain envelope marked Tender for Parcels 60706/68 & 69” on the top left hand corner of the envelope. The envelope must not carry any identification mark indicating the sender of the envelope, as this may result in immediate disqualification. The envelope must be addressed to:

Secretary to the Procurement Board Central Purchasing Unit White Sands Road Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands

ANNEX I MAP SHOWING PARCELS 60706/68 & 69 CHESHIRE HALL AND RICHMOND HILL, PROVIDENCIALES

32 CLASSIFIEDS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

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

General Manager:

The General Manager is the primary strategic business leader of the property with responsibility for all aspects of the operation. The General Manager must oversee property performance, sales & marketing initiatives and strategies, manage profitability and revenue generation. Additionally, the General Manager must be able to attract talent and build talented teams and be multi-skilled and celebrate diverse environments and can relate to people from a variety of backgrounds. The General Manager must have at least 10 years experience in managing in a five star boutique hotel with minimum 3 as a GM. Essential duties: Maximize revenue and profitability, represent the hotel in the community and head the executive committee of the property. Manage all sources of revenue to include rooms, food and beverage, and others. Ensures all departments are profitable and maintain strong working relationships with all stakeholders. Achieve exceptional levels of guest and team member satisfaction. Promote the Gansevoort culture at every opportunity and stay true to its core values. Operate the hotel under the covenants of the management agreement, and other relevant brand standards/SOPs. Establish the strategic plan and execute to fulfill property revenue and profit objectives in accordance to annual budget, marketing plan and capital expenditure plan. In collaboration with the hotel's financial controller, prepare and manage the budget and quarterly forecast process, and general reporting requirements internally, with brand leadership, banking affiliates, owner's representatives and investors. Continually analyze market trends and direct team accordingly to obtain objectives. Creates local and national marketing plans and pricing strategies and knows market segments. Responds quickly to changing market conditions and revises strategies accordingly. Actively participates in sales discussions, meetings and plans. Knows monthly production levels for each sales team. Produces monthly financial reports and knows at all times where the hotel stands against budget. Protects the hotel and its assets through enforcing and maintaining a preventative maintenance program. Provide exceptional customer service to all hotel guests, making their stay as comfortable and accommodating as possible while achieving team and Brand goals. Follows company policies and procedures and is able to effectively communicate them to subordinates.

Financial Director

To direct the resort’s accounting and financial management functions. To provide timely and meaningful information to the general manager and management team with regard to the resort’s financial performance. To proactively lead cost containment efforts, revenue enhancement, profit improvement opportunities and safeguarding of the company’s assets. 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment with minimum 5 years managing an accounting functions within a luxury resort/hotel environment. Thorough knowledge of condo resort accounting, strata management, payroll and IT. Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS and Data Plus financial management system. Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Accounting, Finance or related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education. MBA, CPA or ACA designation essential. Essential Duties: Plan, develop, implement, direct and regularly evaluate the resort’s financial functions and performance. Participate in short- and long-range strategic financial planning and regularly evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of plans. Prepare, analyze, interpret and communicate financial results to General Manager and the management team. Maintain proper and complete financial records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, ensuring that resort accounts, records and transactions are accurate and correct at all times. Safeguard the resort’s assets by establishing, monitoring and enforcing internal

controls. Provide financial management tools that assist management with planning, forecasting and maximizing financial performance. Compile budgets, forecasts, financial reports and financial trends. Optimize bank and deposit relationships and initiate appropriate strategies to enhance cash position. Keep GM informed at all times of cash position. To ensure that the established controls and procedures in respect to the controller’s areas of responsibility are being complied with at all times. Assists with developing Strata budget and manages Strata Costs. Exercise general supervision over the accounting team and related functions (A/P, A/R, payroll, etc). Communicate a clear and concise message regarding department goals to produce desired results. Coordinate audit process and organize information required by outside examiners/ auditors. Keep owners and executives informed, and provide timely response to queries from the same. Develop, implement and enforce policies and procedures that improve the financial operation and effectiveness of the resort. Ensure that there are, at all times, proper procedures and controls for cashiers, purchasing, receiving, stores and requisitioning, and that the same are enforced. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures for accounting department. Protect confidential data and restrict communications of same only to authorized persons. Perform other duties as directed by the General Manager or any other authorized executive.

Owner Relations Manager -

Responsible for maintaining excellent relationships and communication with luxury condo owners to ensure the long term business relationship is successful and is the single point of contact for all owners. This includes regular review of revenue accounts, expenses, statements, booking of reservations, communication to keep owners up to date on their investment and its management. The position requires someone with proven people management skills and experience trouble shooting problems, property management experience, purchasing, inspection, public relations and project management. This individual is self motivated and will deal with all owner communication, issues, requests and questions as well as manage the annual general meeting. They are the owner’s liaison with the hotel and the development company, providing training for staff and providing feedback and input on hotel products and services in development or under review as well as the strata budget.

Front Office Manager:

To be totally responsible for all aspects of the Front Office; which includes the Front Desk, Pool & Beach, Guest Services, Concierge, Bellmen, Drivers, Airport Greeters, Switchboard and Reservations. To provide a courteous, professional, efficient and flexible service at all times. To be entirely flexible and adapt to rotate within the different departments in the hotel. To contribute to the best of your ability to the overall profitability of the Gansevoort hotel. To be fully aware with the budget and financial target of the hotel and responsible for managing the budgets for all departments assigned. To concentrate at all time on staff training and development. To cover Manager on Duty during holidays, weekends and whenever required. To be responsible for all aspects of Front Office Management this includes the Front Desk, Guest Service Managers, Pool & Beach, Concierge, Airport Greeters, House Car Drivers, Cashiering, Porters, Switchboard, Night Management, and Night Audit. To be knowledgeable and responsible for the OPERA, the Salto Key system and Gold Key system. To be the overall liaison and on-site tech support person for these systems. To maintain an up to date accurate Guest history system for the hotel. To be responsible for all room allocations in the hotel. To ensure monthly

meetings are held within the Front Office areas for which minutes are kept and distributed to the General Manager. To show around site inspections as and when required. To ensure all public areas are well presented; in particular the Porte-Cochere, Front Desk, Lobby and Pool area. To be responsible for the security arrangements of the hotel including notifying security of any high profile guests. To be responsible for guest relations in the hotel. To be responsible for the cash handling in the Front Office, adhering to the company procedures at all times. To work closely with the Accounting department. Assist General Manager with preparation of annual budgets and monthly forecasts. Monitor and control budget throughout the year. Participate in the preparation of the hotel’s Strategic Plan and Goals. Skills • Administration, Organizational/planning skills • Multitasking ability • Excellent writing skills • Sense for urgency • Results-oriented • Sense for perfection and attention to detail • Capability to work under pressure • Excellent people skills • Strong financial acumen • Minimum 5 years experience as a Front Office Manager for a luxury property. • Previous experience managing a team of front desk employees and all assigned departments through motivation, coaching and development. • Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem solving skills • Capable of using independent judgment/solid decision making skills ability • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language (additional language an asset.) • Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software and Opera) to prepare reports, employee schedules, inventories, budgets as required.

Security Manager:

The practical application of security measures and standards, which will include the well being of staff and guests, according to agreed policies of the company. To direct and coordinate the overall activities of the Security Team to guarantee the safety of all guests, employees and protected assets of hotel property. • Maximize the prevention of crime. Responsible for 7 by 24 hour monitoring of property via patrol and CCTV and to document and record information as historic reference • Key member and responsible for the Fire & Safety and Emergency Preparedness teams • Ensure corporate standards are adhered by team and all employees • Supervise all aspects of key distribution and control according to policies and procedures of the hotel and to report any discrepancy immediately to superiors. • Maintain legible and accurate records of all control centre documents to include General Security Log, Key Control, Lost and Found and Visitor Passes. • Continuously maintain and service all equipment related, or assigned, to the department, as specified in equipment manuals. • Review scheduled functions, group, or VIP arrivals and special events and to discuss special instructions with relevant departments. • Be flexible with work hours, regardless of time, during day, or night, in order to personally facilitate security arrangements of cases that require special treatment

Continued on facing page

FLOWER GIRL Is looking for a Part-time

delivery driver With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

Contact: 231-3788

Continued

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Reef Entertainment Ltd

Milestone Tci

seeks to employ a

musician

Milestone Tci is looking to hire

skilled workers For the following specified works. All worker must be able to read drawings Plumbing works fire protecting system pipe welders (copper & black steel) Hvac system/ duct works Hdpe pipe welder

Applicants must be able to write, produce and perform own music, and work as part of a group. Ideal candidates should have 4-5 years’ professional experience.

Salary $6.5 per hour.

Please send CVs and demos to eustaceswann@hotmail.com, or call 333-1854 9437

Contact: 332- 3300 between the hours of 10am-3pm

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

and handling. • Liaise with local authorities in order to identify activities that may affect the operation of the hotel such as seasonal events, current community crime trends, political activism and other, and to share any such concerns with superiors. • Provide access, when required, to high-risk areas, exercising vigilance for the protection of assets and to secure the area when access is no longer required. • Report guest complaints or problems to manager if no immediate solution can be found and assure follow up with guests • Control access to crime/natural disaster scenes in order to preserve evidence while awaiting the arrival of authorities. • Attend to reports and to follow-up on all reported guest disturbances, or alleged theft incidents ensuring that the established policies and procedures are adhered to. To conduct special investigation on high profile security matters and to prepare reports for managements review. • Maintain proactive communication, with the Executives and Heads of Departments, regarding relevant security matters and where employees are concerned, to maintain direct contact with the Human Resources Manager as soon as practically possible. • Supervise the maintenance of the security log entries and to track all security officer patrol reports and subsequent security activities. • Oversee the intervention of all guest room safes and to maintain a logbook where all occurrences are recorded. • Review all occurrence reports prepared by security officers ensuring that they have complete, relevant and accurate information and to follow up. • Be fully involved and responsible for fire safety protection program in collaboration with the Engineering department, and all other concerned departments, as per hotel policy. • Ensure that all new team members are briefed and / or trained in Fire Prevention / Fire Fighting Procedures and Emergency Preparedness Plans relevant to their position. • Schedule or assist quarterly fire evacuation drills, on collaboration with the HR, engineering and all other hotel departments. • Execute employee bag/parcel inspections, as directed by the hotel policy. • Control and ensure that the arrival and departure of employees at the employee entrance of the hotel is done in an orderly and secure manner. • Make, for the safety of our guests, physical spot checks on taxi transportation, verifying the vehicle’s general condition. • Complete the annual performance appraisal forms, provided by the HR department, for all employees under his/her responsibility, and to deliver them to the HR

Manger for reviewing. • To ensure that the department operational budget is strictly adhered to, all costs are controlled and expenditures are approved. • Responsible for two-way radio systems are available for use round the clock and all equipment in working order and signed out according to standards. • Responsible for all safety related signage; EXIT, health & safety, usage, traffic, parking. • To work closely and communicate with all the other departments in the hotel as and when required. • To support exceptional guest relations in the hotel. • Attend various other related meetings to obtain and disseminate pertinent information. • Participate in the preparation of the hotel’s Strategic Plan and Goals. • To assist in the identification of training and development needs for all Security Officers and to assist in developing these employees to achieve their potential. Skills/Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily • Police or Military experience required with certification in First Aid training • Minimum 5 years’ experience as Security Manager with 2 years at a luxury resort • Exceptional customer service skills coupled with disciplined approach to providing consistent quality service levels. • Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor and motivate a team • Thorough knowledge of resort security procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspects • Thorough knowledge of fire, health and safety systems • Should be well versed with Computers/CCTV Footage/ Vigilance during Operations. • Ability to effectively deal with internal and external guests, some of whom will require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy to defuse anger and collect accurate information. • Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem solving skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language • Professional appearance and demeanor • Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Office Coordinator:

Daily coordination of the Housekeeping operations and responsible for ensuring that the department achieves

the highest level of service delivery through effective communication and follow up. Critical aspects of the role are communicating room status, receiving & dispatching requests/tasks to all key contacts; ensuring a smooth and efficient operation of the department. Maintain effective record and filling systems; completing all administrative reports accurately and in a timely manner. The Housekeeping Coordinator works closely with the Engineering, Front Office and In-Room Dining departments.

Public Area Attendant/Room Attendant/Houseman

- Loves to clean. Clean and maintain guest rooms and general areas. Clean and replenish amenities as per the resort standards. Assists room attendants with heavier tacks, window washing, linen delivery and removal. Overnight cleaner - Must have one year experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning process and attention to details.

Security Officer -

Perform protective and enforcement functions in a courteous and restrained manner in coping with emergencies, undesired conduct, disturbances and threats to life and property. Maintain a safe and secure environment for guests, visitors, and colleagues. Excellent communication skills. Observant at all times. Experience in investigations and dealing with challenging situations. Good customer service skills.

Cook:

2-3 years experience as kitchen helper or cook in luxury hotel or fine dining restaurant. Able to speak & read English, follow directions consistently, good attendance, good hygiene, likes to cook.

Servers

- Provide guests with food and beverage service – restaurant, bar, room service, beach & pool. Able to work on feet all day, good math skill, experience in fine dining service an asset.

Steward -

Clean, transport, store and generally maintain all kitchen cookware and restaurant service utensils. Clean floors, windows, walls, ceilings and equipment associated with Food & Beverage operation or as otherwise directed by supervisors.

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com

9361

February 1 - 7, 2014

34 CLASSIFIEDS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Roxy Beauty Salon is looking for a

SALES!!!

Due to change of season we are selling lots of items at discount prices. Towels, curtains, bathroom sets, bathroom coordinates, napkins, cups and glasses, canisters, mixing bowls, serving trays and much more for your house. DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church. We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration • Labour Disputes Telephone: (649) 941-4444 Telefax: (649) 941-4235 Cellphone: (649) 245-1314 email: berynd@yahoo.com DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PO Box 52, Cheshire House East 1315A Leeward Highway, Providenciales

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Hairstylist To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 347-3121

9442

COLOMBIAN EMERALDS INTERNATIONAL Colombian Emeralds International, “The World’s Foremost Emerald Jeweller” with over 50 stores worldwide has exciting career opportunities.

RETAIL SUPERVISOR

• • • •

Retail Jewelry Sales Experience Excellent Customer Care Focus Teamwork and ability to meet company objectives Trustworthy, dependable & willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays • Ability to achieve goals as outlined by management Forward your CV and covering letter by e-mail to: NORDICA DELL, Colombian Emeralds International Beaches Resort, Turks and Caicos Islands, Fax: 1-649-941-2333. (NO PHONE CALLS)

CHINSON RESTAURANT

JOB OPPORTUNITIES KITCHEN HELPER

• General cleaning of the kitchen and pastry room • Assist with prep work and washing of utensils • Willing to work weekends and long hours

BAKERS

• Must be able to obtain Sanitation Certificate • Must have at least seven (7) years experience in baking Caribbean pastries to include all bread products • Willing to work long hours and weekends

PASTRY CHEF • • • •

Must be able to obtain Sanitation Certificate Must be experienced in the production of Jamaican Pastries Must be able to prepare Caribbean Cuisines Willing to work long hours and weekends

ASSISTANT MANAGER

• Must have at least 10 years experience in full service restaurant • Must have working knowledge of Micros or equivalent POS Systems • Assist with inventory management and cost control • Willing to work long hours and weekends • Assist General Manager in the training and supervision of line staff • Possess valid driver’s license

CHINESE COOK

• Must be able to obtain Sanitation Certificate • Must have at least 10 years experience in preparation of Oriental Cuisine • Willing to work long hours and weekends Please apply in writing with full resume no later than February 15th, 2014 to:

THE CEO Chinson Restaurant & Pastries, P.O. Box 293, 14 Savannah Rd. Leeward Highway, Providenciales 9472

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CATCH THE WAVE

Coxco Construction Ltd Providenciales

Finish Carpenter Supervisor, Carpenter, Engineering Supervisor Salary commensurate with experience. Applicants must fax resume to 946-5166

Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 35

BAYVIEW MOTORS is currently looking to employ two experiences certified Automotive

Technician/ Mechanic

Handyman

Salary commensurate with experience This individual must possess the follow: • Adequate tools to perform his duties • Must be able to work with little or no supervision • Must be experience using computerized diagnostic equipment • Must be a holder of automotive repair certification ASE or equivalent • Must possess a valid driver’s license • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays

contact: 941-3047

Please email all application to: syrmondg@bayviewmotors.com

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

9475

BOATS FOR SALE 1 X 45ft Hatteras Sports Fisher excellent running order used daily 1 x 42ft Performance Boat complete with 3x250 4 stroke

BUSINESS SYSTEMS ANALYST With 10+ years’ experience in management.

Must have familiarity with integrated line of business/ERP systems (including compliance) and design of business process workflows. Proven ability to evaluate, select and implement new systems, as well as conduct staff training.

1 x 28ft Rib like new complete with Yamaha 3 stroke 250 SOLD AS A LOT: offers accepted by email to: Alastair.david@husky-global.com

Offer closes February 30th, 2014

CORIATS OUR 36TH YEAR CORIATS (CARIBBEAN) LIMITED Licensed Trust Company

TCI Belonger 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

9428

9435

Amazing Value! PRICE SLASHED Lot for Sale FOR QUICK SALE

PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$175,000 $49,999 o.b.o. Call 231-3788

House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

36 CLASSIFIEDS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Been Construction

Colmelita Handfield seeks the following:

Tiler Requires an experienced

IS LOOKING FOR:

Land Rover Specialist Mechanics Sales Supervisor

Must have at least 10 years experience and able to use a diagnosis computer

One (1) Gardener

An experienced Carpenter and an experienced Heavy Duty Equipment Operator. Applicants must have at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial and residential construction industry. Salary negotiable.

Labourers Tailor Mason

Must be knowledgeable in QuickBooks/ Excel and vehicle parts/ inventory Must be willing to work 6 days per week Must have a valid drivers license Must have a clean record Salary $5.50 per hour

Fax resume to 941 7626

Please send your resume @branitz@yahoo.com9424

Contact: 946-7705

PORT ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION

MY DEE’S RESTAURANT

Is looking for an

Is looking for a

Electrician

Kitchen Helper

To work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

ACADEMY MASTER SCHOOL Is looking to fill the following positions:

CHARLES BARBER SHOP Is looking for a

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

COVE CONSTRUCTION LTD. Wishes to employ a Heavy Duty

Equipment Mechanic

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-2975

9405

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

Contact: 347-6642 or email: winterpoonnewhope@ hotmail.com 9430

• Minimum of 5 years experience with the appropriate qualification is a must • Must be very proficient, honest and reliable • Qualify person must be willing to work off island, overtime, weekends and holidays • Clean police record is essential • Belonger only need apply • Wages starting at $10.00 per hour Please contact: Keith Howell 649-941-5548 or email: keith.cove@tciway.tc

9403

French Teacher Spanish Teacher

contact: 245-1239

9425

9434

DENISE ELMERICH

DEVIN WALKIN

Is looking for a

hairdresser To work 6 days

labourer

Contact: 345-8282

contact: 941-5173

DBELLE BEAUTY FASHION SALON NAIL CENTER Is looking for a

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

9406

Contact: 346-6622

9410

9419

To work 5 days per week salary $200.00 per week.

9423

BCS-CS/FPN-CS-GRACE BAY CAR RENTAL/GOLDEN SCISSORS, MAC MOTORS, FOOTPRINTS ON THE BEACH

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 241-5559 9431

Sales Person/ sales assistant

CHARTERED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE STERLING PROPERTY CONSULTANTS Seeks to hire a qualified

BUILDING THERMOGRAPHER

Blue Ltd is looking for a sales Person with 3+ years experience in the retail and/or service industry • Person must be mature, reliable, have a very strong knowledge of the surf related products and industry. Be able to understand the variety of trips and tours in order to book excursions • Person must have a background in watersports. • self motivated and self driven, be prepared to work ALL holidays NO exceptions 6 days a week and often late hours • He/ She must have experience in managing stock/ inventory and Quickbooks POS/ and ordering • Tasks to include: sales, stock, presentation, layout/ ACCURATE CASH FLOW • This person must be mature, responsible, organized, TIMELY, extremely tidy, show initiative and be VERY personable

Capable of producing detailed building energy audits Suitable candidates will have an internationally recognized building thermography qualification and previous experience in producing energy audits for buildings located within the Caribbean region. Salary is on a commission basis only Applicants should deliver their CV and a covering letter to:

THE MANAGING DIRECTOR STERLING PROPERTY CONSULTANTS 2B COURTYARD PLAZA LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES

Fax resume to: 941 8672 or hand deliver a resume to the owner with a proper cover letter as well as CV. Only strong applicants need apply. 9413

9400

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EXPRESS TIRE

ERIKA (MEP) SERVICES

FLAMINGO CAFÉ

Is looking for a:

plumber

To work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour. contact: 333-0333 9432

Domestic Worker Waitress

Mechanic Tireman

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $8.50 per hour.

LABOURER WANTED

Seeks the following person:

One(1) Deckhand Must have STCW Certificate

Contact: 242-7545

contact: 649-432-4440

9415

Contact: 941-5707

JEAN DELUIS ULYSSE Is looking for a

To assist clients in busy Laundromat. Clean Character Certificate and Driving Record a must. Salary $6.00 per hour

labourer

GOVERNMENT VACANCY EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

9427

Contact Neville Daley at 231-6989

Lew 1 Shipping

Is looking for the following persons:

Is looking for a

9511

February 1 - 7, 2014

contact: 347-3520

9414

JOB SUMMARY:

FIRST GLOBAL INSURANCE BROKERS, LTD.

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.

T/A UNITED RELIANCE INSURANCE BROKERS (2008) First Global Insurance Brokers Limited t/a United Reliance Insurance Brokers (2008) is seeking a qualified individual to fill in the following position of:v

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • • • • • • • •

Participates in on-going training and development. Provides Basic Life Support care to patients as required. Ensures the stocking and safeguarding of the EMS Department vehicles and property. Responds to emergency requests for service. Transports patients to and from health care facilities. Provides medical care within an applicable scope of practice. Prepares and submits reports as required. Participates in effective health and safety practices and advocate for paramedic safety at all times. • Participates and responds to any large scale events as required. • Maintains license and certifications as required. • Performs any other duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor.

UNDERWRITING AND CLAIMS PERSONNEL

The ideal candidate should possess the necessary experience and must meet the following qualifications for: REQUIREMENTS: - Minimum 15 years experience in the Insurance Industry in Underwriting, Claims and Risk Management in Property, Casualty and Medical - Must have earned Insurance Degree or Bachelor’s Degree (College Graduate) or equivalent - Proficient in oral and written communication - Computer Literate - Good Negotiation Skills - Certified Insurance Practitioner - Must be able to effectively respond to Insurance Companies, Reinsurers, Brokers and Agents - Knowledgeable in the Insurance regulations both Local and Foreign particularly in London Markets - Must have thorough knowledge of the Turks & Caicos Islands Traffic Code - Technical knowledge preferably in Engineering, Electronics and Accounting

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: • • • •

High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of an approved post-secondary EMT-B programme Valid TCI driver’s license Current certification in CPR

SALARY: T10 – T15 $21,000.00 - $22,800.00 plus allowance

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line Emergency Medical Technician Application. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject Emergency Medical Technician Application clearly marked on the envelopes. Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance. Current serving officers must apply through their heads of department.

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: Managing Director First Global Insurance Brokers Limited, P.O. Box 117, Caribbean Place 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Applications must be received by the 31st January 2014

DEPARTMENT: Emergency Medical Services MINISTRY: Ministry of Health LOCATION: Grand Turk

9426

Qualified belongers will be given first consideration. Incomplete applications without supporting documents will not be processed APPLICATION DEADLINE: 30th January, 2014 9494

38 CLASSIFIEDS

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MERLINE GROCERY STORE Is looking for a

domestic worker To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

JOB VACANCY

Contact: 344-6135

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Margaritaville Grand Turk seeks to identify persons for the position of:

Kitchen Helper

REQUIREMENT: • Have at least 2 years experience in similar capacity • Must be able to communicate clearly with managers, kitchen and dining room personnel. • Able to prepare a variety of meat, seafood, poultry, vegetable • Understands and complies with HACCP practices • Assist with the food prep assignments during off peak periods • Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 9 hours). We are also taking applications for the following positions:

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Bartenders, Servers, Bussers/ Runners &, Electrician, Player, Cost Control Clerk, Store Clerk, Cook & Dining room Captain

QUALIFIED PADI/OPEN WATER SCUBA INSTRUCTORS NEEDED

All must have a strong teamwork ethic and adherence to all employee policies is required; as well as: • Ability to work under stress. • Communicate orally and in writing. • Ability to work flexible hours including public holidays, weekends and night shift. • Energetic and people oriented, reliable. • Understand and follow HACCP practices.

Successful candidates must have a minimum of (2) two years experience with current membership and insurance in good standing; must be able to speak French and English and have knowledge of boat operation. Equipment and compressor maintenance would be a plus. Starting salary $400-$500.00 per week based on experience and qualifications. Application must be submitted no later than February 11th, 2013 to:

All applications need to be submitted to the HR department by 3rd February, 2014.

Margaritaville Grand Turk. Grand Turk Cruise Center White Sands Beach, Grand Turk

9423

9416

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited of Raleigh House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following property pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands CAP 9.01:

Marsha Blanche., Misick & Stanbrook Tel: 946-4732 Fax 946-4734 Email marsha@misickstanbrook.tc

9430

TCI PAINT & SUPPLY LTD. HAS THE FOLLOWING POSTION AVAILABLE

Assistant Manager of Sales and Marketing Must have the following:

• 5 years experience and bachelors degree from an accredited university • Strong communication, presentation and writing skills • Hotel engineering background as outside sales will be primarily dealing with reports and understanding the logistical and maintenance • Strong interpersonal, research and teamwork skills • Detail-oriented • Flexible to new situations and challenges • Extensive working knowledge of quick books and back office programs • Must be familiar with static inventory and be able to both place orders and take in account monthly and seasonal stock fluctuations and needs. • Be knowledgeable on buildings and maintaining customer relations • Ability to be punctual (work begins at 7am -5pm Monday to Friday and 8am - 2pm on Saturdays) • Accept to a Drug free work place/random drug screening • No criminal background

Parcel 60719/193, Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hills, Providenciales.

The property has an extensive canal frontage of approximately 153 linear feet, a covered deck, gazebo, a boat dock, pool and pool deck and it comprises of: a. A singly story main house of approximately 1,607 square feet, 3 bedrooms, two bathrooms, a laundry room and an open plan kitchen/living/dining room and; b. A guest house of approximately 441 square feet with an open living area, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and a detached garage.

Duties include:

Responsible for maximizing profits and minimizing costs. Marketing, Logistics, Customer Service and finance. Deal with customers and prepare orders as well as receiving and off loading inventory from containers. Ensuring standards for quality, health and safety are met. Responding to customer complaints and comments. Creating and fostering new relationships with new and perspective clients. General Supervision of employees. Willingness to complete all tasks at hand with a positive and respectful attitude.

Registered Proprietor: Christopher Michael Wright The auction will be held at the offices of Karam Missick attorneys, P.O. Box 926, A 201& A 202 Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 7th day of February, 2014 A reserve price will be fixed on the Property. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

Please forward resume to:

Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited (649) 9417430. 9436

TCI Paint & Supply Ltd. Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands. Tel: 941-7432

9374

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ISLAND SPORTIQUE Is seeking a

Gustavus Francis

CLASSIFIEDS 39

LION CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Wanted 1 Sales Clerk Labourer Must be knowledgeable with QuickBooks salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 946-5378 9457

$5.00 per hour 6 days a week Contact 241-6040

Carpenter To work 4 days

per week salary $7.00 per hour. contact: 347-7023

9418

GNC Live Well Specialist Flamingo Pharmacy is looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable health and wellness expert to manage the vitamin and sports nutrition section of the store. The ideal candidate must be able solve the customers’ needs, develop and foster long-term, trusting relationships, and share information regarding, health, fitness and nutrition.

Qualifications and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in sports science, nutrition, health promotion or related field from an accredited university. - Five years’ experience in a supervisory role, preferably in a retail setting including sales and merchandising. - Ability to train and educate other team members to improve product knowledge and sales. - Proven ability to manage social media, marketing, advertising and promotions. Basic salary from $32K plus performance related bonus. 40 hours per week including some weekends.

Please send cover letter, resume and copies of qualifications to jobs@flamingopharmacy.com. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone calls. Belongers only need apply. Closing date Feb 20th 2014.

9456

Seven Star Resort is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the position outlined below. Ideal candidate must possess luxury resort experience, a professional demeanor, and a strong command of the English Language (oral and written). Relevant experience and a passion for hospitality is required. Salary is based on experience and qualifications.

Are you a high performing, result driven Sales Professional? If so, we would like to speak with you to join our dynamic team in the capacity of:

Corporate Sales Executive (Based in Turks & Caicos)

Applications are invited from individuals with a solid sales background who will work directly with key stakeholders to sell LIME’s Telecommunications solutions hardware, software and services to existing & new major corporate accounts. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing new & existing business opportunities directly to the end users. He/She will be also expected to meet or exceed assigned revenue quota through the selling of new & existing products and services from LIME product portfolio. • Ideally, a first degree in Marketing/Business Administration/Sales or equivalent qualifications • Greater than five years field sales experience in the enterprise market, selling to ‘C’ Level • Knowledge of functions & operations of the Telecommunications industry • Knowledge of wireless, fixed voice & data products & service offerings • Working knowledge of Target Account/Solution Selling Methodology or equivalent • Working knowledge of CRM & contact management systems, ACT, Gold Mine or Salesforce.com To explore this exciting career opportunity please send your application and resume no later than February 3rd 2014 to recruit@lime.com

HEAD SOMMELIER Interested candidates should apply via e-mail to Seven Stars at hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration.

Application deadline: January 17, 2013 ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.

Value Every Moment 9429

40 CLASSIFIEDS

ALBERT SMITH

ALBERT HIGGS is looking for a

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Albert Stubbs Is looking for a

Is looking for a

domestic worker Labourer To work 5 days To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 243-7785

9467

contact: 241-5125

PROVO VISTA Is looking to fill the following positions:

Handyman – $5.50 per hour

Sales Clerk – $5.50 per hour

Computer Technician – $9.00 per hour

Contact: 341-8821

9446

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

CASABLANCA CASINO Is looking to fill the following position:

WAITRESS

• Salary $9.00 per hour • Must have at least 3-5 years experience • Must have excellent customer service • Must be able to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays Interested persons can.

Contact: 244-4665 between the hours of 9am-4pm Monday-Friday 9484

PRICE FOR QUICK SALE

Beautiful hillside, water front lot in Paw Paw Joe, North Caicos South

$50,000

(or nearest offer) Also additional seven acres plus in Kerr Mount (inland)

contact Veronica at 1-242-327-8011 or 1-649-232-3508

contact: 232-4548

North Caicos

Is looking for 6

CARIBBEAN CRUSIN Is looking for a

First Mate labourers To work 6 days To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

9465

labourer

AGNES SWANN

contact: 246-4769

per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 341-4992 9444

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Momentous Ltd. Is seeking a qualified

Assistant Manager - Development

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 9466

MARTHA BEAUTY SALON & BOUTIQUE Is looking for a

hairstylist To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 343-6631

9534

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BEEN MEP CO. LTD. is looking for a

Carpenter To work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

9447

MACKEY’S TIRE & CAR ACCESSORIES Is looking to employ a

mechanic To work MondaySaturday

PASCAL REMY Is looking for a

9469

contact: 941-4440 or 241-0054

NOVILUS FASHION STORE Is looking for a

Labourer Sales Clerk To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-4188

contact: 342-8027

ROYAL ESSENCE

PRESTON HARRIS

9395

is looking for 2

Cosmetologists To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

contact: 342-2472

9461

AMANYARA PROVIDENCIALES TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

Financial Controller The position of Controller is critical to the efficient and successful operation of both Hotel and Villas (private homes), having responsibility for maintaining & improving accounting systems, internal controls & processes. The Controller is responsible for ensuring financial results are maximized, through effective budgeting, forecasting and cost controls. The role requires a team player with strong operational & financial focus, good judgment, passion, vision and exceptional leadership skills.

contact: 331-6920

9448

Is looking for a

labourer To work 5 days per week salary. $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-8830

9441

CLASSIFIEDS 41

Key Responsibilities: 1) Assume responsibility for all day-to day accounting functions within the Hotel and the Villas, including banking, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, inventory, and cash management. 2) Lead the accounting teams, ensuring all daily operational & financial transactions are prepared accurately and in a timely manner. Hire, train, and evaluate the performance of the accounting team members. 3) Produce month-end & year-end financial statements in an accurate and timely manner, analyzing, understanding and communicating the relationship between actual results to budget and prior year and provide commentary on variances. 4) Review and continually improve internal controls, processes and procedures to ensure financial information is complete & accurate and to ensure the security of assets. 5) As an active member of the Management Team, assist the GM & Division Heads in budget preparation, business plans & the gathering of financial data for special projects & reports. Recommend and implement cost savings strategies. Job Requirements: Minimum requirement of a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting/ Finance. Complete knowledge of hotel accounting systems and procedures, 8 to 10 years of Managerial Accounting/ Finance experience and; exceptional analytical ability required. Advanced Excel skills, ability to plan, prioritize & implement effectively multi-task while working effectively in a fast paced and ever changing and challenging environment. Amanyara is seeking a RESERVATIONS MANAGER specializing in Ultra- Luxury Resort JOB SUMMARY Responsible for soliciting and managing of reservations sales-related opportunities; also provides training to reservations sales staff. Responsible for driving customer loyalty by delivering service excellence throughout each customer experience CANDIDATE PROFILE Minimum 3-5 years previous experience managing the Reservations Department of a 5-star/luxury resort. Must have proven abilities in revenue, yield and inventory management, forecasting and preparing weekly, monthly and annual reservations and sales and marketing reports and budgets. Excellent written and verbal English and one additional European language (French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish) preferred. Exceptional telephone etiquette & communication skills. Must possess advanced computer skills including but not limited to Office and Opera. Exceptionally well organized and detail oriented with a pleasant, professional demeanor and ability to work quickly and efficiently under pressure.

Education and Experience 2-year degree from an accredited university in Business Administration, Marketing, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major; 3 years’ experience in the sales and marketing, guest services, front desk, or related professional area. • Understanding Markets & Maximizing Revenue • Identifies new reservations sales business to achieve property revenue goals. • Understands the overall market, including competitors' strengths and weaknesses, economic a trend, supply and demand etc. and know how to sell against them. • Closes the best opportunities for the property based on market conditions and property needs. • Monitors same day selling procedures to maximize room revenue and control property occupancy. • Able to apply advanced Yield & Revenue Management techniques; Expert, familiar with hotel Revenue Management systems (SAR), Corporate Reservations Policies & Planning and Opera

SENIOR OVERNIGHT GUEST ASSISTANT

• Must have Opera experience • Computer literate, good word and Excel command necessary • Previous night experience needed

PRIVATE VILLA COOKS

Minimum 3 years experience as a Chef de Partie, Demi Chef, Commis Chef and Pastry Chef in a luxury resort, cruise ship, private estate or 5-star restaurant. Possess a working knowledge of Asian and Mediterranean cuisines. This is a live-in position. Extended working hours required when villa is occupied.

PRIVATE VILLA HOUSEKEEPERS/ ATTENDANTS

Minimum 2 years experience working in a 5-star resort, private estate or luxury motor yacht with solid food and beverage service experience. Fluent in English and possess the confidence to communicate directly with villa owners and renters. A friendly, outgoing yet professional demeanor is required. Must be self-motivated flexible and hard-working This is a live-in position and extended working hours are required when villa is occupied.

LABOURER

Must be reliable, strong, able to help clean ponds and swimming pools, hard working and willing to work under the sun all day. Should be able to speak reasonable English. Previous experience beneficial.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

At least five years experience in a resort with knowledge of A/C and refrigeration systems repair and maintenance, sound knowledge of plumbing and electrical systems, kitchen equipment and laundry machines repairs. Knowledge of laundry steam boilers and steam systems.

All positions require a flexible schedule (which may include holidays, weekends and evenings) and extended hours on occasion. Salaries based on experience and qualifications.

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FROM THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE WEDNESDAYS ONLY 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. E-mail mstubbs@amanresorts.com 9464

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TRAIL ENTERPRISE Is looking for a

domestic worker To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

WALKIN EQUIPMENT & CONTRACTING LTD.

BLUE HILL, P.O. Box 583, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. TELEPHONE: 649-231-0088

TWO (2) OPERATORS DIESEL MECHANIC

To work on the following equipments: dozer, roller, backhoe, grader, dump truck, excavator etc. must have knowledge of all the above equipment work a minimum of 44 hour per week holidays and weekends if necessary salary will be based on experience and performance must have at least 10 – 15 years

contact: 941-7886 9443

Fax resume to 649-946-4945

Y AND R CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Granite and Marble Installer Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $9.00 per hour

contact: 232-7256

9494

Y.A.3. B. CONSULTING AGENCY on behalf of our clients: Eugene Williams

Jewelery Repairman $6.00 per hour

La Familia Discotect

Gardener $6.00 per hour Must be willing to work 5 days per week

Painter $6.00 per hour

CROWN LAND UNIT

NOTICE TCIG Invites Application for Crown Land for Residential Purposes The Crown Land Unit, Lands Division, Attorney General’s Chambers of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) resumed the allocation of Crown Land for Residential development on the 7th of February 2013 and has since advertised and finalized the allocation of Residential Scheme No. PLS001 for land parcels in Block 60004, North West Point, Providenciales. The Crown Land Unit now wishes to invite applications for the Purchase of about 15 parcels of residential land in Block 10202, situate at North West Suburbs, Grand Turk. These parcels, which range in sizes of between 0.23 and 0.30 of an acre and are valued at between $15,500 and $24,800, are being made available for residential development only. The plot sizes are consistent with the new guidelines on the size of residential allotment of crown lands. These land parcels, which will be allocated under the “Residential Scheme No. GT001”, are being made available in the North West Suburbs of Grand Turk, off the public road adjacent to and west of North Creek. The Land parcels are being allocated in line with the new Crown Land Policy and in accordance with the new Crown Land Ordinance 2012. In keeping with those policies, prospective applicants are being asked to take note that ONLY applicants who have never received an allocation of crown land, who are Belongers aged 21 and over, are eligible to apply. Those persons will also be eligible for a TCI Belonger discount of 25 percent of the Open Market Value for the purchase of Crown Land under this Residential Scheme.

DJ $6.00 per hour Bartender $6.00 per hour

A & M Jewelry Repair Shop

Penn Construction

Impression Beauty Salon Cosmetologist $6.00

Contact: 341-4540 PRECIOUS TREASURE DAYCARE, PRE AND PRIMARY SCHOOL

VACANCIES Invites applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the following positions:

DAYCARE:

Trained Daycare Supervisor Experienced daycare assistant PRESCHOOL:

PRESCHOOL SUPERVISOR QUALIFICATION:

• A Teaching Diploma or Degree from a recognized institution with emphasis on Early Childhood education • At least five (5) years experience in a similar position • Must be able to train other staff under their control • Mature and posses a caring and loving disposition • Clean police record

PRESCHOOL TEACHERS PRESCHOOL TEACHER’S ASSISTANT PRIMARY:

TRAINED PRIMARY TEACHERS

Allocations will be made on a First Come First Served basis, if the number of applications received does not exceed the number of available parcels. However, if there are more applications than available parcels, selections will be made by open ballot. All completed application forms MUST be accompanied by proof of Turks and Caicos Islander Status, proof of age and proof of payment of the nonrefundable Application Fee of US$100.00.

GRADE 1-6

Applications will be accepted commencing from the publication of this notice and will remain open for a period of at least thirty (30) days, thereafter, and will close on Friday the 6th February 2014 at 2:00pm.

CLEANER: • Person to keep the classroom and bathrooms clean at all times

Potential applicants may collect an application form from any of the offices of the Crown Land Unit in Grand Turk and Providenciales, or the Offices of the District Commissioner on North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos and Salt Cay. Forms may also be downloaded from the Crown Land Unit Website: www. tcilandinfo.tc or may be sent to potential applicants by email upon request.

• • • • • •

Qualification must include but not limited to the following: At least three years experience in a similar position Appropriate Teacher Training qualifications Possesses mature, caring and loving disposition Clean police record Willing to work long hours and on Public Holidays

• Be willing to work until late evenings and on non-school days if required PLEASE APPLY IN WRITING WITH FULL RESUME TO:

THE ADMINISTRATOR Precious Treasures School, P.O. Box 293, Providenciales Applications should reach no later than February 15th, 2014

9471

February 1 - 7, 2014

The Somerset Strata Management Co. Ltd is seeking a suitable qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

LABOURER

Responsibilities: • • • •

Replace washers, faucets and seals on malfunctioning plumbing equipments Repair leaky faucets and clean clogged drains Perform a wide variety of general building maintenance repairs and services Assist as directed in the operation and maintenance of mechanical systems such as: plumbing, ventilating, air conditioning, steam system, automatic temperature control, electrical and pool filtration as needed • Perform preventive maintenance procedures in a manner responsive to guest satisfaction

Responsibilities:

;Troubleshoot ; and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems ;Paint ; and repair drywall along with performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs around the property

Requirements:

;Must ; be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guests ;Previous ; experience in this area would be an asset

• Must be trained and certified by an accredited school in the following areas: Plumbing/Electrical/Mechanical and A/C related trades • Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guest • Must have clear English communications skills (written or oral) • Must have at least 5 years in plumbing, wood finishing, painting, A.C repairs, and carpentry Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience

Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:

Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:

Joanna Ivasiuk The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay Jivasiuk@thesomerset.com

Submissions for this job position should be received no later than February 23, 2014

9449

Joanna Ivasiuk The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay Jivasiuk@thesomerset.com

GARDENER

The SFS Center for Marine Resource Studies located on South Caicos, seeks an enthusiastic, team-oriented individual to serve as part of a residential team of facility & staff that delivers an interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experience to students spending a semester or summer abroad. The purpose of this parttime, year-round position is to:

• Complete ground work as directed by the Property Manager which may include picking up trash, sweeping curb and dumpster areas and maintaining landscaping beds and other ground areas • Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs • Must have the ability to maintain irrigation systems and provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, fountains, and other grounds features

• Assist in overall site maintenance (including building, grounds, vehicles, boats), • The ability to work with a minimum of direct supervision, multitask, follow instructions, and prioritize work based on the schools schedule, • Work with maintain and appropriate cultural sensitivity with the international staff and students. The following qualifications are required: • TCI work authorization or ability to obtain, • Ability to speak and understand English, • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds unassisted numerous times per day, • Ability to deal with third-country nationals both socially and professionally, • Maintenance and construction experience including but not limited to; painting, rust proofing, electrical & plumbing repair, grounds keeping, masonry, woodworking, portage, safe and proper usage of power tools, roofing.

COMMON AREA ATTENDANT Responsibilities:

• Clean and maintain guest public areas within the hotel • Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment, in order to prevent damage to floors and fixtures • Maintain an inventory of cleaning and toiletry supplies • Polish furnitures, metal work, and chrome using appropriate cleaning and polishing compounds

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guest • Must have clear English communications skills (written or oral) • Previous experience in this area would be an asset Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience

Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:

9451

Joanna Ivasiuk The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay jivasiuk@thesomerset.com

Submissions for this job position should be received no later than February 23, 2014

GROUNDSKEEPER

The Somerset Strata Management Co Ltd, is seeking a suitable qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.

Responsibilities:

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Pay DOE; closing date Feb 15, 2014. To apply send a CV and cover letter to: RDAKE@FIELDSTUDIES.ORG

9450

Sports National

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Josh for Sports

The National Stadium debacle PLEASE forgive me, but I’m in a state of perpetual shock. I don’t want to sound rude, or disrespectful to the government or anybody for that matter. However, it is imperative that I speak up on the ramifications or implications of the so-called settlement on the dispute involving the so-called National Stadium. For the life of me, what is the meaning of “national stadium”? In my study of the English language as a successful GCE O’ level

By Joshua Gardiner

student I understood that expressed terminology alludes to a stadium belonging to a nation.

“Less I forget, the above mentioned proper noun “National Stadium” is not applicable to us in the TCI because we have no nationality. We are an islandchain and not a nation. We are overseas citizens of Great Britain and its territories. We are not a nation; otherwise we would have had a seat at the UN. It is totally and absolutely impossible for a country/ nation to have a national stadium for which they have to pay rent/lease for the land

on which it stands. That’s absolutely ridiculous and a comedy. NATION FIRST Be it known that the national interest of a country takes precedent over that of any individual or entity. To my knowledge the governments of the world have the authority to sequester land that is needed to serve the national interest of a country. If your land is required to serve the national interest of a country, then, it is incumbent that you be compensated. And I’m certain that that is probably the law of this country as well. Why, in the name of national interest should the government have to pay $650,000 as back rent for the time that the stadium has been located on that land? The government built that stadium at a ridiculous price.

They should have compensated the foundation adequately enough with a suitable portion of land that would have complimented their programme. Furthermore remember that the constitution was suspended. Thus the elected government, in my opinion, has the rights to be excused for not being able to close an equitable deal during the time of the interim administration. WITHOUT VISION THE PEOPLE PERISH Yes people all make mistakes. No one is perfect, yet wisdom lies in the bosom of a fool. Being elected does not make one infallible or all knowing. If you don’t know how to deal with a situation ask somebody. Why was there no national debate on a possible resolution? To my knowledge the foundation was not deprived of the use of the stadium.

THE WAY FORWARD IN RETROSPECT What the government should have done is to have paid the foundation for inconveniencing them and out rightly purchased the land while finding them another parcel of land nearby. That would have been the sensible thing to do. Alternatively the government could have arranged to sell the structure (complete) to the foundation. TRUE NATIONAL STADIUM I’m sure that there are countries that would jump at the chance to build/donate a national stadium and arena to the TCI. China donated one to the Bahamas for about $30M, while the Bahamas’ government spent about an additional $15M to further furbish it. We do have vision, just ask us—even the kids on the street. Love Josh.

Public Notice Notice of invitation to prequalify for the tender to Design and Build new homes on Grand Turk and South Caicos. Under the contract between the Disaster Recovery Board (DRB) of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the European Commission: 10th EDF Turks and Caicos Hurricane Ike Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Project Design and Construction of new homes on properties approved for funding. Tenders will be called for in February 2014, for the construction of new low cost homes on Grand Turk and South Caicos. Contractors are invited to contact the project officer Crysenne Dickenson at ccdickenson@gov.tc to obtain an electronic copy of the prequalification questionnaire for this tender. Only those who have submitted a prequalification questionnaire which meets the requirements as set out therein may be invited to submit a tender for the design and build contract. Closing date for the submission of completed questionnaires is Wednesday, 5th February, 2014.

Qualifying respondents will be invited on Monday, 10th February, 2014 to submit a tender at an appropriate time thereafter.

TCI national softball team

TCI finish fifth at Slow Pitch World Cup THE TURKS and Caicos national co-ed softball team finished fifth in the 2014 Co-Ed Slow Pitch World Cup which was held in Tampa Bay Florida last week. In their four games TCI lost to France 11-17, the USA 10-27 and Canada 4-6 while they defeated Bulgaria 9-8. Eight teams completed in the World Cup.

Pizza Pizza Tag Rugby League:

Defending Cup champs lose opener LAST season’s Cup winners the BCB Wahoos were defeated by defending Plate winners the Meridian Marauders when action bullied off in the Pizza Pizza Tag Rugby League at the Meridian Field. The game, which opened this season’s action, last

Thursday, ended 12-9. The Vix Tipsy Turtles were the biggest winners with a 6-0 win over the Talbots Adventure Rays, while the BCQS Jolly Ranchers lost to the Trail Red Mist 9-11 and the Blue Haven Dreamers defeated the CASL Seals of Doom 9-7.

February 1 - 7, 2014

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Williams says he still has TCI at heart

– Hoping to get Nike involved with local athletics Jonathan Paul led the Harbour Boys with 18 points and seven boards.

Kirk Adams finished with a double-double (11 points and 11 boards) for the undefeated side.

PABA Night League battle of the undefeated:

Harbour Boys left standing HARBOUR Boys are now the team to beat after they ended the unbeaten reign of defending champions the GT Stallions in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League. The much touted clash between the two undefeated sides last Saturday night at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex was a scorcher from the tip off, and although there were key battles, it came down to who wanted the win more. The game had several lead changes, but the Stallions’ energy level dropped in the third quarter; their opponents, who were more focused, maintained theirs. With Alvardo Parker controlling the paint and Jonathan Paul scoring at will the eventual winners were able to execute their game plan for the 5852 point victory. The Harbour Boys’ energy was also obvious in the rebounding section with a number of players doing the job on the glass. Paul led the attack with 18 points, seven boards and two assists while Alvardo Parker scored 13 points, six boards, two assists and one block. Kirk Adams also left his mark with a double-double (11 points, 11 boards and a block), while Arvio Parker finished with five points and 12 boards for the winners. For the Stallions Marcus Lightbourne powered his way to 13 points, nine boards, three blocks and three steals, while Ray Harris added 10 points, six boards and three steals. One night prior to the clash the Stallions had easily defeated the Sonics 82-69. Kino Williams had led the winners with 20 points, while Devon Williams had a game high 28 points, seven boards and two blocks

TCI born Delano Williams who switched his allegiance to Great Britain last year has made it clear that he still has the Turks and Caicos Islands at heart. The World Junior 200M champion in a recent interview with SportsXplorer Multimedia in Jamaica said that he wants to set the stage for Turks Islanders out there. NIKE DEAL Williams who signed a four-year deal with Nike in the latter part of last year, is trying to negotiate a deal which could get other TCI athletes attached to the footwear giant. “I want to set the stage for Turks Islanders out there. I’m trying to get sponsors for them [the athletes]. Actually I’m trying to cut something

Delano Williams is trying to bring Nike to TCI athletes.

with Nike for them,” the former Munro College star sprinter pointed out. BEST DECISION Williams, the TCI 100M and 200M record holder has not regretted switching his allegiance to GB, in

fact he said it was the best decision he ever made since it not only brought him a lot of rewards, but it placed him in a position to give back to TCI athletics. “Making the transition to the UK is the best thing that ever happened to me. “I have my manager… cutting deals with other companies and stuff like that. It’s been good, going to that wider branch and wider state right now.” Just leaving (TCI) is helping them (the athletes) a bit.” He admitted that there are challenges in the UK, especially with critics, but he has managed to “hang in there”. STILL TURKS ISLANDER Williams, who now trains with the likes of Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake at the Racers Track Club in Jamaica, has reiterated his position of having his home nation at heart. “I haven’t turned my back [on TCI].”

The female Trailblazers are hoping that their pre-season victories will continue in the WFL. The Stallions’ Marcus Lightbourne powered his way to 13 points, nine boards, three blocks and three steals.

for the Sonics. Predators had also defeated the Shottas on Friday night 65-45 with Troy Saunders leading the attack with 22 points, 10 boards and five steals. “Sugar” Ray Smith was close to a double double with 19 points, nine boards, 10 steals and four assists for the Shottas. Game three on Friday night ended with the Nazarene Kings defeating the Spartans 70-56. Jerome Parker led the winners with 16 points and eight boards, but Jameka Harvey had a game high 20 points and three rebounds for the Spartans. Prior to the undefeated battle on Saturday night the Steelers had whipped the Spartans 97-58. Randy Rigby led the winners with 23 points, nine steals and five boards, while the Spartans were led by Andujar Gardiner 21 points and three assists.

WFL warm-up games:

Three wins in row for Trailblazers FC AS THE newest team in TCI Football not many people would expected Trailblazers FC to lead the field in Women’s football this year, but in view of recent performances in preparation for the Women’s Football League (WFL) the new kids on the block appear to be the team to beat. For the past three Sunday afternoons Trailblazers FC have defeated a combined team of Revolution and TCIFA Academy players. In their final encounter, despite going a goal down as Revolution’s captain Joan Whent scored from close range, Trailblazers responded in force by scoring three quick goals to settle the match. Yarileny De La Cruz opened the scoring as she cut in from the left wing and expertly placed her shot beyond the reach of the goalkeeper. Team captain Kadine Delphin then scored from long range before De la Cruz scored her second goal and wrapped up the match as

she responded quickly to Delphin’s fierce strike which came back off the goalkeeper. Coach Alan Kagoue was pleased with his players stating: “They are young and they still have a lot to learn, but they pass the ball around nicely”. Coach Gianni Ascani added that: “The team also has strength in depth as we have a big squad and many of our younger girls like Sasha Reid, Danarah Brooks, Alina Ayer, Evnisha Saintverlu are pushing hard for a starting place”. Club president Ian Hurdle is pleased with the progress his team is making. “Having won the WSSL league late last year, we felt we had a good core group of players. They have continued to work hard and are now seeing the fruits of their labour. The WFL season will not be easy as both Revolution and the Academy team have some very talented

players, but we are confident we can do well and who knows, maybe we can win some more silverware. However, that is not our main aim, we just want to make sure our players are happy, enjoy the game and have fun. Winning is just a bonus.” Hurdle added that it is important that clubs like Trailblazers exist so that they can support the hard work the TCIFA is doing as well as to provide young people with opportunities. “Local sporting bodies and clubs are valuable in shaping the lives of young people by giving them something fun and exciting to do. Many children use sports as a way to express themselves as well as relieve stress. With so much talent on our islands, we at Trailblazers are fully committed to developing young people by working closely with the local sporting organisations, hopefully other teams and clubs will follow our lead, which will benefit all”.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014

LAND FOR SALE In beautiful Bottle Creek, North Caicos

.46 acres overlooking the creek, spanning King Road and Windsor Road

QUICK SALE

CALL 232-3508 or 946-4664

February 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 1 - 7, 2014