TCWN February 15 - 21, 2014 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 28 | No. 07| February 15 - 21, 2014

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Turks and Caicos

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hike in

tourist

arrivals TCI makes moves PAGE  8 towards clean energy

Power outage leaves country out of pocket

PAGE  4

Last year the Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed and hosted 1,069,497 tourists to its shores - a 10.4 per cent increase from the previous year, which totalled 968,370. PAGE 

Deputy Premier of the British Virgin Islands Kedrick D Pickering, Minister Rayburn Blackmoore of Dominica, Minister James Fletcher of St Lucia, Prime Minister Kenny Anthony of St Lucia, Sir Richard Branson, Prime Minister Denzil Llewellyn Douglas of St Kitts and Nevis, Ambassador Ethelstan Angus Friday of Grenada, Minister for Government Support Services, George Lightbourne, Governor Peter Beckingham and Minister Simon Stiell of Grenada

Revenue increases by three per cent in third quarter

PAGE  7

Signature Noodle Bar and Kitchen launched PAGE  27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Rerun DL 700 ad

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Power outage leaves country out of pocket A “CATASTROPHIC failure” at Providenciales’ only power plant this week led to an island-wide blackout that has left many counting their losses. Residents had to throw out food, businesses lost a day’s takings,

hotels saw tourists leave and pupils missed out on a day of education as Islanders struggled to cope with a lack of electricity. Power was unavailable for up to 48 hours in some places as energy giant FortisTCI staff attempted to fix

Gov’t not prepared to bury Christmas day victims in TCI THE BODIES of the 17 Haitians who tragically lost their lives last Christmas Day are still being kept in the TCI while the Government continues to look to the consulate to take responsibility for their countrymen. Premier Rufus Ewing and Minister of Border Control and Labour, Donhue Gardiner have both indicated that the TCIG continues to hold discussions with the Haitian consul on the repatriation of the bodies. On Thursday afternoon (February 13) Gardiner along with the Minister of Health were scheduled to meet with Haitian delegates in the TCI to discuss the issue. Prior to this, Gardiner told the media at press conference that the issue of cost of storage due to the long wait for repatriation is one of the things that they will be discussing. “Certainly we expect they will do their part to remove the remains of their countrymen from this territory in as quick a manner as possible and at their cost,” he said. “We intend to also raise with them the cost of keeping them here beyond the time that was

reasonable - certainly after the point that the bodies were handed over from the coroner to their custody - that they should actually pick up the cost for that and we will be insisting on that at our meeting,” the Border Control Minister stated. However, the Haitian consul Karlo Pellissier was recently quoted in another section of the media as being unable to meet the cost of sending the 17 bodies home and had expressed the hope of having them laid to rest on TCI soil. He also indicated that the consulate is trying to negotiate with a number of people to get a better deal to send the deceased back home to Haiti. That cost, he said, is about $50,000 to $60,000. Asked if he TCI would consider burying the bodies in TCI, Minister Gardiner said the Government intends to insist that the remains are repatriated to be buried in their homeland. “It has always been the case that that is the way it is and it is what we expect would happen on this occasion,” he added. In the meantime, the TCIG is incurring the cost of electricity for storage of the bodies. (DI)

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

two major problems. FortisTCI president and CEO, Eddinton Powell, explained the issues during a press conference at the company’s headquarters on Leeward Highway on Monday afternoon. He described the incident as “the perfect storm of what can technically go wrong”, adding that it “could not have gotten any worse”. On Sunday (February 9) at about 12 noon, there was an explosion and electrical fire in one of the power plant’s three main switchgear rooms. The room is unmanned, but has cameras and fire sensing equipment which alerted staff to the problem. Automatic dousing kicked in while workers rushed to the scene and attempted to extinguish the flames with CO2 canisters. “We’re fortunate that this happened on late Sunday morning and we had people on the plant working and limiting the damage caused,” Powell said. Engineers then attempted to determine the cause of the explosion and found a major fault on one of the main cables leading to the plant’s 12Kv substation and electrical bus bar. The combination of both these incidents resulted in a complete shutdown at about 1.38pm, Powell said. “We’re not sure why it failed, if it’s due to the age of the cable as it is in the oldest section of our plant. “But our plant is a very sophisticated system. There are numerous underground cables running across the system that will fail from time to time. “This one is particularly old and we think that it just failed because of age.” Engineers immediately began working to repair and restore power to customers and all resources available were deployed to assist in

Burn marks from the explosion in the power plant’s electrical switch room

fixing the problem. Work on all faults and damages that occurred earlier in the day were completed at approximately 9pm. However further challenges occurred as the engineering team attempted to begin restoration efforts leading to further delays. Power was restored to some areas at 1.42am on Monday morning (February 10) while another group of customers received power at 2.42am. But there was no electricity in parts of Grace Bay, Leeward, Leeward Palms, and Blue Hills “We are aware of the impact that this has in your homes and in your businesses,” Powell said. “We are also cognisant that this is high tourism season and the impact that this will have on our guests and

visitors to the Turks and Caicos.” At 7.30pm on Monday power was restored to 99 per cent of customers and at 5pm on Tuesday (February 11) all residents had electricity returned. Powell told media that financial damage to the company was significant but that he was more concerned about the loss to customers. However he did not give a clear answer as to whether FortisTCI would be willing to consider compensation requests. “The ordinance is specific in regards to the company’s liability in these circumstances,” he said. “In other words it would have to be negligence of the company continued 

FortisTCI president and CEO Eddinton Powell, Devon Cox, vice president of transmission and distribution, Don Forsyth, director of engineering and planning, Nigel Hosein, vice president of energy production and project management, and Michael Polonio, director of energy production

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TCI records hike in tourist arrivals LAST year the Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed and hosted 1,069,497 tourists to its shores - a 10.4 per cent increase from the previous year, which totalled 968,370. This is according to official data analysed by the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board and presented in a tourism statistics report. A complete assessment of the 1,069,497 arrivals shows that 290,587 visitors were stopover guest and 778,920 visitors came via cruise. Although the growth in the cruise sector was significant, a few known challenges at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre in early 2013 contributed to the port being closed thereby impeding greater growth in 2013, the report stated. On the other hand, stopover arrivals to the TCI in 2013 reflected a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to arrivals of 291,723 in 2012. In 2013 it was 290,587, it added. Stopover arrivals to the destination via private aircraft reflected a slight increase when compared to 2012; however, stopover arrivals via private aircraft were excluded from the statistical information for both years as the recordings lacked demographical details. The report noted that in the face of continued global economic challenges, restricting budgets and temporary closure of some major resorts, brand TCI has shown resilience and has perform on par with other destinations in the region. Premier and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Rufus Ewing, said he was thrilled by the overall increase in arrivals to the TCI and is more than optimistic that the numbers will continue to climb throughout 2014. He said that the increase “speaks to the strength of our destination, our product, and the hospitable nature of our people working directly and indirectly in the tourism industry.” On reviewing the official statistics report, Director of Tourism, Ralph Higgs, said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to shine through a number of factors that would have diverted it from growth. “These numbers not only indicate good news for both the country and the tourism industry, but it also represents the potential for growth in the months and years ahead.” Higgs further added that as airlines begin additional routes to the TCI, stopover arrivals to the destination can be expected to increase in 2014. “Nonetheless, surpassing the one million visitor target again is a major accomplishment for all of us. “While we are pleased and proud, along with our partners and

stakeholders in the industry, we are also cognisant of the work that lies ahead in continuing to build brand TCI.” President of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), Michel Neutelings, observed that the result of increased arrivals is attributed to the combined marketing efforts of the TCHTA, the individual hotel properties, airlines, cruise port, minor stakeholders and the Tourist Board. Meanwhile, moving forward, the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board will continue to increase its presence within the market place, embarking on a series of travel and trade shows, traditional and non-traditional media strategies, sponsorships, and promotional events in the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America. The board will also continue to work with wholesalers and hotel partners to sell the destination, the report continued. STATISTICS Overall tourist arrivals for the first quarter of 2013 showed the destination struggled in comparison to the previous year. Stopover and cruise arrivals were down 50.4 per cent in March and 23.3 percent in April due in part to a decrease in cruise arrivals. In mid-March, the Grand Turk Cruise Centre experienced three weeks of closure. Ships stopped calling at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre after several cruise lines noticed an increase in the number of passengers reporting illness following visits to the island. The severity of the impact cost the destination some 3,000 daily cruise passengers, revenue shortfall in head tax per visitor, and local merchants also registered losses due to the closure. The Grand Turk Cruise Centre welcomed 778,920 cruise passengers in 2013, a 15.1 per cent increase in the number of cruise passengers visiting TCI shores. However, there was a mere 1.1 per cent decrease in ship calls compared to the previous year. As evidenced, and previously reported, the months of March and April saw a huge dip in ship calls. Ship calls were down 67.6 per cent and 48 per cent respectively, and passenger arrivals down 66.3 per cent and 31.4 per cent respectively, due to the closure of the Grand Turk Cruise Centre in mid-March for three weeks. Upon reopening, the cruise centre saw a steady increase in the amount of ship calls and passenger arrivals, with the months of September and

October nearly doubling the amount of passenger arrivals to the port when compared to the same period in the previous year. The Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) latest statistical report on cruise passenger arrivals by destinations in the region, released January 20, 2014 positions the Turks and Caicos Islands well among the top cruise destinations. Land based arrivals (stopover visitors) The arrivals for stopover visitors saw a slight decrease of 0.4 per cent totalling 290,587 when compared

to the arrival of 291,723 stopover visitors from the previous year. Similarly to cruise passenger arrivals, land based arrivals to the destination were noticeably down during the first quarter of 2013. Ironically, months traditionally considered the ‘slow season’ for the Turks and Caicos - June, July and August - showed the greatest increases in stopover visitor arrivals when compared to the previous year. There were 25,844 stop-over arrivals in June, 28,562 stop-over arrivals in July, and 25,203 stop-over arrivals in August. The month of September saw an

18.8 per cent decrease in stopover arrivals, totalling 11,443 visitors, the lowest of the year; however, the destination rebounded at the end of the year with 21,881 stopover arrivals in November and 28,738 stopover arrivals in December 2013. The destination continues to draw on its major source market, the United States, whose dominance claims 79.7 per cent of all stopover arrivals due in part to the availability and frequency in airlift to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Stopover arrivals from the United States grew by 1.5 per cent in comparison to arrivals in 2012. The same CTO report also showed data for tourist arrivals from the United States to other regional destinations. The data suggests that travel from the United States to the Caribbean has increased overall in 2013 compared to 2012. Moreover, although the second largest source market with a claim of 10.9 per cent of the stopover market, arrivals from Canada to the destination decreased by 16.1 per cent compared to the previous year. Stopover arrivals from Europe also declined by 4.0 per cent; however, arrivals from the Caribbean and the rest of the world increased by 5.1 per cent and 32.1 per cent respectively. A closer look at the European market - one sought after by many of the competing destinations in continued 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

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

Power outage

THIS week two major faults at FortisTCI’s power station led to an island-wide blackout which lasted up to two days in some areas. Eddington Powell, CEO and president of the energy company, said it was an unfortunate and “catastrophic failure” and stressed that staff were working around the clock to fix the problems. Meanwhile hotels, businesses and residents all suffered to various degrees from the lack of power. How were you affected by the power outage? What are your thoughts on how FortisTCI handled the issue?

Gold plated monopoly

Considering what Fortis charges us there is absolutely no excuse for a “catastrophic failure,” it will all boil down to human error or lack of maintenance. At the rates they are charging, human error and maintenance should not be a factor. They are making plenty for both training and maintenance. And the delivery wires should be made of gold! It’s another legacy of the former PNP government and the compliance of the FCO in their complete rape of this country. The best part about this is with their gold plated monopoly and profit deal with the Government, the cost of repairs will only be added on to our power bills.

Foreign management

They have burned up three internet modems, one refrigerator, two televisions and have cooked three of their own transformers in less than 10 years, serving my neighbours and our home. One neighbour lost all her appliances and they refused to pay. Who will pay for the spoiled food and lost tourism? This problem does not lie with the Belonger employees but with the foreign management from Canada and Cayman. The planes are leaving everyday carrying out InterHealth Canada patients and they have room for Fortis managers.

More information needed It is an unfortunate fact of life that things

mechanical and electrical will fail from time to time, often in spite of the best preventative maintenance programmes. Having lived here for 17 years I must congratulate Fortis on what is generally a very commendable level of service, particularly considering that electricity here all flows from a single source. I have always found them to respond promptly to service complaints, and their repair crews are very capable and courteous. But, given its monopoly on power supply in Providenciales, I think it incumbent on FortisTCI to assure us that this “catastrophic failure” was NOT the result of improper operator attention or inadequate maintenance procedures. Should a particular piece(s) of equipment have

been inspected and/or serviced more frequently? Is there a backup system for the failed component(s) that could have been put in place at a reasonable cost? Was any of this lengthy delay the result of not having the necessary spares on hand? Did we experience any kind of cascading problem that could/should have been anticipated and guarded against? Perhaps a detailed explanation of what transpired (in laymen’s terms) would help us all feel more comfortable that everything realistic has and is being done to try and prevent any recurrence of this service disruption.

Renewable energy

Time to go solar!

Different and unexpected Life is life we all were around before electricity.

For those with medical needs they should always ask if there is a generator at the facility. I assume the hospitals have generators. I lived in the Boston area and have lived in Vermont where there was no power and it was below freezing. These experiences develop character, good stories, some not good stories but memories usually. It teaches us how lovely it is to hear NOTHING not even the refrigerator. I feel that the power company worked hard and diligently. This was beyond what they imagined, I am assuming, would happen but so they learned too. Life is all about how you deal with it, not what you get. It is about the journey not the destination. I was annoyed as it was my day to work on the computer for 16 hours but ‘c’est la vie’. I will get to it in a couple of days. We’ve never had electrical outage with no storm so it was different and unexpected. I always have extra water and dry food just in case. Flash lights and batteries too. So lessons learnt. I also bought ice for my cooler in case it lasted even longer I could ice my refrigerator food.

Manmade things fail Manmade things fail sometimes

I was without power like many during the time of the outage but what I saw was the creativity of Islanders who used the cooking skills from ‘back in the day’ to prepare a meal on the outside. I heard others talk about appreciating a moon

lit, cool night (something we may take for granted) and others who wondered about persons who do not have electricity in their daily routines. FortisTCI did update customers about what was happening and sometimes manmade things fail. It is almost always in the time of crisis that testing is done and Mr Powell did speak about what happened. ‘Today’ was FortisTCI’s day and ‘today’ could be your day too so yes we were uncomfortable for a bit (and I don’t work for FortisTCI) but I wonder how we would respond if a “catastrophic failure” were to impact our business place.

Cut profits

The facts seem to charge Fortis with incompetence. The CEO admitted on television that the cable that failed was known to be old and therefore vulnerable. A couple of years ago they spent millions to build a big fancy office for the CEO and his management people. They are not working on a shoe string because they have the highest rates anywhere and are sending millions back to Canada. Where is the backup? The disaster Powell calls a catastrophe was not an act of God but poor management. Cut their profits and rates in half and build in redundancy.

Have a backup plan

The TCI bills itself as a high end destination and we certainly do pay more for power than anywhere else in the Caribbean, but we are still a third world country in so many ways. So hotels and businesses might have had the foresight to invest in backup generators or some form of alternative power. For visitors who will and did complain - I'll bet they were a lot better off here in paradise without air conditioning than in Miami or in New York without power! Our restaurants have gone through this many times before so one would hope they have some kind of backup plan. And surely our ultra-luxury condo-hotels, charging a very impressive nightly rate all year round, have back up power. Whether or not Fortis could have prevented this black out, I think people need to be reminded that they must look after themselves if they can and quit expecting the Government to do anything/everything for them (I refer to all past governments, not just the current one). And let us hope that this was a onetime event but be prepared for future black outs, related or unrelated to hurricanes.

What about wind?

Fortis, as an energy supplier for the TCI needs to look at alternative energy sources. God has given us so much sun. Fortis do you know about solar? I watch television and see that the Florida Power and Light have drastically reduced their need for oil to supply their energy needs. They use solar, also known as capturing the sun’s energy and releasing it in the form of electricity. Also, what about wind? All that wind blowing from those little vacant islands. Get the windmills up and going! Like most businesses they want to reap big profits but don’t want to invest in making the island energy efficient.

Wake up lesson

Classic response by the CEO, two major faults cover the excuse or reason for not defaulting to the emergency. Technically he said that too failed.

In an emergency state for some 24 hours is treason - from Europe to TCI is only 12 hours why so long? That is what happens when utilities are sole sourced and privately owned. This is a wake up lesson for the pro-independence and the TCIG to take the appropriate action.

Cheap, low impact energy The recent power outage only highlights the need

to promote alternative energy sources. With substantial technical advances in solar, wind, tidal, and other methods to produce cheap, low impact energy, TCI could reap huge savings and significantly reduce oil-based energy dependence.

No excuse

There is no explanation that Fortis TCI power station can give that can excuse a power company with no fail safe method or redundancy plan to prevent catastrophic power outage! What kind of third world Mickey Mouse operation is going on by that company? Catastrophic failure caused by a natural disaster is understandable for any system-wide outage for more than one hour. But just a total plant/equipment melt down where power is out for more than 24 hours and the weather is as calm as a baby backside is criminal! Even BEC in the Bahamas can do better than that, and if BEC can do better than that company, they need to hang their heads in shame.

Mixed up priorities

Thomas Edison turned the lights on and our own Eddington turned them off, and the rest of us come to that! Surely some better orchestrated public relations wouldn’t have come amiss here. The television rendition was the usual inane corporate exculpation and customers querying what happened were met with cold rebuffs. If the explosion was old equipment, with the extortionate rates we pay surely investment in newer stuff would obviate this. Why do we have outages when we pay the highest utility rates in the world? As usual expect sweet nothing from our dysfunctional Government. The Brits aren’t interested and along with our rag tag local bunch are too busy ‘tripping the light fantastic’. I hope the Governor and Premier enjoyed their latest trip to Richard Branson’s alternative energy conference on his Necker Island where there aren’t any border control, crime, healthcare (or rat infested post offices for that matter) messes to address? Bet the lights didn’t go out there! Somehow the priorities get mixed up.

Job well done

I think Fortis did their best to restore power and got the job done. Also a few dollars should be taken off the bill.

 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 15 - 21, 2014

Renew gun licence or turn in your weapon FIREARMS holders who have an expired licence are at risk of being slammed up in jail for illegal possession. This week police urged anyone in the Turks and Caicos Islands with a weapon to make sure they have all the correct documents or to hand their gun in. Last year’s licences expired on December 31, 2013, and there are still a number of people yet to reapply. A police statement issued on Friday (February 7) said that the Firearms Department is putting together inventory on the status of firearms holders. “Strict measures will be imposed on those persons with expired firearms licences,” it read. “These measures may result in the suspension, revocation and/or the possibility of being charged with unauthorised possession of a firearm and ammunition.” Possession of an illegal weapon carries a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 14 years in prison. Firearm licences are valid for one year and it is the licence holder’s responsibility to renew their licence in a timely manner. To renew a licence, weapon holders can visit the Firearms Department at the Police Headquarters in Providenciales or Grand Turk Police Station. Carriers must have with them their firearm, ammunition and valid photo identification.

All live ammunition must be removed from the gun to make it safe before attending the Firearms Department or any police station. Superintendent Darron Williams of the Firearms Department told the Weekly News that in order to obtain a new licence residents must have weapons training and proof they are a person of good character. They can then apply to the Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar in writing explaining why they need to possess the firearm. If their explanation is convincing and they can justify that they are high risk and warrant a licence they will be sent a set of requirements. Supt Williams explained that those looking to possess a weapon often include “people who have been threatened by crime, people who have businesses that are doing money transactions”. “Once you can justify threat level is high we look at that,” he said. At the end of January police held several meetings for firearms holders in Providenciales, Grand Turk and North Caicos to discuss firearm laws and issues. Supt Williams said that the meetings were a good opportunity to educate attendees on the parameters of the licences and talk about minor breaches such as exposing the weapon in public. For more information on firearms call Superintendent Darron Williams on 231-7009 or Sergeant Franklyn Thomas of the Firearms Department at 231-6262.

TCI records hike ... continued from 

the Caribbean - showed that the Turks and Caicos Islands more than doubled its stopover arrivals from Italy. It also grew by 18.6 per cent from France; however, stopover arrivals were down by more than 21.7 per cent from the United Kingdom and down 44.2 per cent from other European destinations when compared to 2012. Also of prime interest, the stopover arrivals from Brazil, a market currently receiving increased marketing efforts from the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, showed a 95.9 per cent increase in comparison to the previous year. The overall figures for stopover arrivals in 2013 for the United States were 231,651 visitors; Canada 31,797 visitors; Europe with a total of 6,671 visitors, a breakdown reveals 3,267 visitors from the United Kingdom; 1,804 visitors from Italy; 727 visitors from France and 873 visitors from other European destinations.

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Stopover arrivals from neighbouring Caribbean countries totalled 16,144 while Brazil contributed 1,185 stopover arrivals. From the rest of the world, there were 3,169 stopover arrivals to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Three major US carriers (American Airlines, US Airways and JetBlue) brought in 69.5 per cent of Turks and Caicos’ stopover arrivals in 2013, up from 67.4 per cent in the same time of 2012. The only airline with direct flights from Miami, American Airlines accounts for 32 per cent of the airlifts to the destination, a 1.7 per cent increase in comparison to 2012. US Airways, which merged with American Airlines in December 2013, saw a 4.0 per cent increase in its contribution to the airlift of the destination. This accounted for 21.7 per cent of the market share, giving the American Airlines Group dominance with 53.7 per cent of the stopover traffic to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Revenue increases by three per cent in third quarter THE TURKS and Caicos Islands Government recorded a three per cent hike in all revenue streams over the third quarter of the financial year 2013/2014, with the increase largely being credited to short term tax strategies and increased tourist arrivals. Speaking with the media at a post Cabinet meeting on Thursday (February 13), Premier Rufus Ewing however noted that the country is still being bedeviled by high expenditure; something that will be addressed in the new budget. The third quarter (October to December 2013) financial report was presented to Cabinet on Wednesday by Accountant General and been approved for publication. The report will be laid before parliament at its next sitting and will also be available on the Government website for public scrutiny. “This financial report showed within the first nine months an operating surplus of $16.3 million. “For the third quarter specifically the revenue was increased by three per cent above what was budgeted for that quarter, showing significant increases in all of the revenue streams for the entire nine month period,” Ewing told the press. This, he added, is an overall 10 per cent increase for the same period in the last financial year. He noted that the tax systems that the Government put in place over the past year have played a part in this

increase. “There is [also] still a general growth in the economy in terms of tourism arrivals and doing business in general; so that has resulted in the increase. “It is a natural increase due to natural growth of the economy as well as due to the additional short term taxation measures to prevent that deficit.” He added that what they need to do now is rationalise those taxation measures and make them more broad based and stable. Questioned as to when the short term measures introduced last year will end, the Premier said they are looking at the end of April this year. BUDGET As for the 2014/2015 budget, he added that they have been preparing for it for several weeks now and are just about complete the process. He said very shortly it will be sent to the United Kingdom for review by the various ministers of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). Following their stamp of approval, the document will be laid on the table of the House of Assembly for consideration by the Appropriations Committee and thereafter debated. Ewing said his Government has recognised that there are many challenges within this budget. “Even though in the TCI we can say that we are boasting a $16.3 million

Under the tree

operating surplus in this nine month period and that there is an increase of three per cent straight across the board in all revenue streams; we do have some challenges because of the various obligations that we have and we will be seeking to address those challenges, especially as it relates to expenditure in various sectors.” He said the public will be hearing – either before or during the budget debate – what the Government is doing to reduce and streamline expenditure as well as increase revenue as it seeks to rationalise or broaden its tax base. “We would like to let the public know we are preparing our taxation strategy document that will go out for public in a town hall meeting format and we hope that we can do this before the end of March, whereby we will consult with the public about the various options and methods.” He further noted that the Government’s objectives are to raise its revenue, lower the cost of living and support businesses so they can operate in a productive manner. “So we look forward to this engagement of the public and I would just advise the public to reserve their comments and to avoid listening to other comments coming from different sectors and to wait on the Government to deliver its strategy for open and public discussion,” Ewing advised. (DI)

By Benneth Williams

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TCI makes moves towards clean energy

GOVERNMENT officials took a major step towards embracing renewable energy when they signed an agreement with an international carbon reduction organisation last week. Co-founded by billionaire business mogul Sir Richard Branson, Carbon War Room encourages countries to adopt business solutions that will create a low-carbon economy. Governor Peter Beckingham and Minister for Government Support Services, George Lightbourne, met with Branson at a three-day conference on his private Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands. During the energy summit the TCI officials attended workshops on renewable energy and signed an expression of interest to join the group’s ‘Ten Island Challenge’. Members of the Carbon War Room hope to get ten Caribbean countries to reduce their dependency on fossil fuels through the acceleration of commercial opportunities, by attracting expert engineering firms and investment. Governor Beckingham said: “I am under no illusions that converting some of TCI’s current 100 per cent dependency on fossil fuel will be challenging, but we must work closely with the utility Fortis to see how we and they can build on their initial plans for solar and wind power.” The other countries that committed to the challenge were Aruba, St Lucia, St Kitts, The British Virgin Islands and San Andres Province, Colombia. Aruba aims to be fossil fuel free by 2020 and has already reduced its reliance on fossil fuels by 50 per cent in only five years, with an $80 million annual reduction in energy costs. Across the region soaring power costs and the lack of energy security are major concerns. Jose Maria Figueres, a former Costa Rican president who is now the president of the Carbon War Room, said most import-dependent Caribbean islands pay 35 to 55 cents per kilowatt hour. Meanwhile Miami-area households pay an average of 11.5 cents per kilowatt hour. Regional governments have long recognised that pricey oil-generated power from utilities with a virtual monopoly on electricity make their fragile economies even less competitive but most have made little progress with solar, wind and geothermal power. However proven renewable energy technologies offer islands the chance to reduce this significant burden for their economies and consumers, Figueres said. Among those in attendance at

the meeting were regional heads of state, leading technology suppliers, researchers and financial facilitators. Lightbourne said: “Many of the 100 professionals at the conference expressed surprise at TCI's high energy costs, and were in no doubt we could introduce measures to bring prices down for the benefit of all. “I am determined that we should see the introduction of alternative energy generation and believe this initiative will have a positive impact across the entire social spectrum and reduce operational overheads for the public and private sector alike, by reducing the burden of spiralling energy costs, and living our ‘beautiful by nature’ mission.” The first specific project which the Carbon War Room will offer advice on is the new development at West Caicos. Work on the 24 square kilometre site is about to commence with construction and renovation of an environmentally sustainable hotel and condominiums. Development of the island began in 2001, but with the credit crisis in 2008 and the collapse of main creditor to the project, the development came to a standstill in the same year. A group of European investors advised by Kew Capital reached agreement with the previous developers to buy most of their interest in the project. Jonathan O’Dea, senior

(Rear) Amory Lovins CEO and chief scientist at the Rocky Mountain Institute, Governor Peter Beckingham, Séamus Day of Sand Dollar Investments TCI, Jonathan O'Dea of Kew Capital, West Caicos, and Jose Figures, CEO of Carbon War Room. (Front) Richard Branson, and George Lightbourne, Minister for Government Support Services

representative of investment advisors Kew Capital, said: “West Caicos has the potential for solar, wind, ocean thermal energy conversion and other green technologies. “We are pleased to be TCI and the Carbon War Room’s first project in carbon impact reduction, and see

the proof of renewable energy as a commercially sound and financially viable business model.” As part of the effort, Branson announced a deal with independent power producer NRG Energy to install solar and wind power on Necker Island to cover about 80 per cent of its power needs.

“What we hope to do is use Necker as a test island to show how it can be done,” he said. “The only way we’re going to win this war is by creative entrepreneurship.” For more information on the Carbon War Room visit www. carbonwarroom.com.

Man killed in car crash A FIVE Cays man died in hospital after the car he was driving was involved in a violent collision in Providenciales on Wednesday (February 12) evening. Werlly Jean Baptiste, 43, was rushed to hospital following the incident but succumbed to serious injuries that he sustained in the crash. The incident happened at about 6.55pm at the mouth of Richmond Hill Road on Leeward Highway. According to police, a green Toyota Corolla car and a white Cherokee jeep collided – details on how are currently being investigated. Firefighters were called to the scene to free Baptiste, who was trapped in the driver’s seat of the Toyota Corolla car. Aubrey Felix of the Turks and Caicos Fire Department told

the Weekly News that the fire department were at the scene for about 20 minutes. They used the ‘jaws of life’ to remove the driver’s door and extracted the injured man from inside. They then disconnected the batteries of the cars and made sure the area was safe from fuel and oil spillages. Baptise, who was suffering from multiple injuries, was rushed to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre but doctors were unable to save him. The only passenger of the vehicle, a 44-year-old male, was also taken to hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the white Cherokee jeep, a 20-year-old male, was also treated for non-life threatening

The driver of this white Cherokee jeep escaped serious injury

injuries and released. However he has since returned to the hospital where he remains at time of press seeking further medical treatment. Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar told the Weekly News: “This tragic incident was the first road fatality of the year. “I want to remind road users to adhere to the road laws of the Turks and Caicos Islands and to be extra

careful and safe.” Following the collision traffic officers diverted east-bound traffic down past Turtle Cove Marina until after 8.30pm. Police are investigating the incident and anyone with information can call Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477 or use the Crimestoppers online reporting page: www.crimestoppers.tc. Information will be treated in the strictest of confidence. (RB)

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Plans in place for ultra-modern post office A BRAND new state-of-the-art post office could be on the cards for the TCI if the Government assigns enough cash in the upcoming budget. Plans have already been drawn out for the swish new building and it could be ready for staff to move into within just nine months, according to the Permanent Secretary of Government Support Services. Ian Astwood made the announcement following a meeting with post office staff on Friday during which they discussed long term solutions to a lack of premises. Workers have been using a temporary office at the Town Centre Mall in Butterfield Square since Tuesday (February 11) following a walk out of the decrepit Airport Road building last week. But now they can look forward to another upgrade in working conditions if plans for the ultra-modern building are given the go ahead. Last Monday, February 3, disgruntled workers refused enter the dangerously run down former post office in protest against inhumane conditions. The rodent and insect infested building had long been identified as both unsafe and unsanitary and for months the Government promised to make improvements. However staff could no longer take the lack of communication and inaction from TCIG officials and

For months the Government promised to make improvements to this decrepit insect infested building

refused enter the building. As a result the Ministry of Government Support Services closed the building and looked for a suitable temporary workplace. On Friday (February 7) Deputy Governor Anya Williams and Acting Premier Akierra Missick met with staff to discuss concerns and a long term solution. In a press conference at the EMS building, Downtown, Missick said that the action taken by staff was understandable. “The staff took the best decision that they felt was available to them at the time and we respect that as a Cabinet of the Government and as

Power outage leaves ... continued from 

for the company to be liable for compensation. “However we live in a real world, we understand our customers have real issues and we will look to see what we can do for our customers.” At a press conference at the Office of the Premier on Thursday Premier Rufus Ewing said the outage was an unfortunate incident. He added that the country has one of the most reliable electricity suppliers who did an “awesome job” in getting power back. “Yes it might have had some negative impact on our tourism industry; there were lots of tourists like residents that were out of electricity but these things happen almost like an act of nature and those things you can’t plan for.” This is the second blast at the power plant in two years after an insulation failure on the main bus bar caused it to explode in July 2012. This rendered five breakers inoperable and power was out across Providenciales from 8am until 9.40pm. Another power outage struck

Providenciales on October 15, 2013, when FortisTCI lost 11.5 megawatts of electricity due to the “catastrophic failures” of two engines brought on by inclement weather. An additional 15 megawatts was unavailable at the power plant on Leeward Highway as the result of maintenance to the transmission and distribution system. FortisTCI became a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortis Inc located in Newfoundland, Canada in August 2006. The company acquired Turks and Caicos Utility Limited (TCU), which is the sole provider of electricity on the Islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay, in August 2012. FortisTCI is the sole provider of electricity in Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos and adjacent Cays, and South Caicos. Together the two companies serve approximately 12,000 electricity customers in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The utilities have an aggregate diesel-fired generating capacity of approximately 75 megawatts. Additional information on FortisTCI can be accessed at www.fortistci.com. (RB)

residents of the TCI.” Deputy Governor Williams revealed that staff had been complaining for some time about working conditions. “It’s not that these concerns have fallen on deaf ears but rather that it was taking some time to relocate to another property,” she said. “Our initial plans were to have not only the post office staff but also the boxes relocated and that was causing a bit of difficulty.” She said that during the meeting it was agreed that money will be assigned in the upcoming budget to create an acceptable working atmosphere for staff. Previously the Government had been assessing costs for a new roof following damage caused by Hurricane Ike, but it may need a complete rebuild, the Deputy Governor said. “It has to be done because first and foremost our concern has to be the safety and wellbeing of our staff,

and secondly we are concerned about the security of the mail. “The post office carries out an essential service, they are a vital organ in Government and we have to make certain that we make the situation right.” The Permanent Secretary of Government Support Services explained that a structural survey has been completed on the former building. Architects, project managers and quantity surveyors are currently looking at the report and an estimated budget for repairs or a new build will be announced soon. In addition the Public Works Department has produced a set of plans for a new state-of-the-art post office. “It brings our post office in line with the rest of the Caribbean and the United States in terms of its layout and the way it functions,” Astwood said. “Providing that necessary funds are made available we’re looking at a three month tender period and a six

months construction period giving a total of nine months to have a new facility in place.” Deputy Governor Williams said cost of reconstruction is likely to be at least $400,000. Post master general Elizabeth Garland said that post office staff were very happy with the results of the meeting. “We’ll try and get the mail out as quickly as it comes in,” she said, “and we’ll try our best to make our customers more relaxed. We care about them and they haven’t been forgotten.” The problem of the former building was first brought to the attention of the Weekly News in October last year by Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson who said the building was in a state of disrepair and should be condemned. She pointed out that damp and weather damage had ravaged the majority of the wooden structure leaving splintered wood protruding and paint work peeling away. Termites could be seen marching up and down the external walls of the single story building and wasp nests inside the roof crevices. Meanwhile inside the building staff told Opposition members that conditions were much worse, with rats and cockroaches a common sight. At the time Minister of Government Support Services, George Alexander Lightbourne, said meetings had taken place with the director of the Post Office and the Permanent Secretary with regard to relocating staff. In the House of Assembly in December he went on to promise that staff would be relocated after Christmas following a survey of potential new premises. (RB)

Energy policy will lower electricity costs – Premier “IT IS our intention to see the development of a new energy bill before the end of this financial year, and that bill will result in the introduction of renewable energy technology in the TCI, amongst other means to reduce energy demand and cost saving for not only the Government but for individuals and businesses in the TCI.” These were the words of Premier Rufus Ewing one day after the Wednesday (February 12) Cabinet meeting whereby the body considered a draft Energy Policy which has been in development for some time now, and is a legacy of the interim administration. Cabinet also considered the establishment of an Energy Council. Ewing noted that the overarching objective of the policy is to reduce the cost of electricity and to improve energy security and environmental sustainability. It has since been approved for

public consultation prior to final adoption with various timelines as to how the country will move forward with the document. The Premier said the Government welcomes the initiative, which is also in line with and supported by Sir Richard Branson’s Carbon War Room initiative, which the Government recently signed on to. Ewing said: “TCI boasts one of the highest energy costs in the Caribbean and it is our intention as a Government to look at ways to reduce the cost of electricity to our residents and businesses here in the TCI and also to reducing the cost of living as the energy cost form a significant part of the cost of living.” The policy was started during the interim administration and came into the hands of the PNP Government which reviewed it and will now be sending it for discussion with FortisTCI and other stakeholders.

“I am confident that it is a policy that most residents in the TCI and business owners would be happy about and would be ready to welcome,” Ewing remarked. He noted that one of the provisions within the draft energy policy is for Fortis to look at power purchase agreements from alternative energy generators, for redistribution. He further noted that there are a lot of technical details that will go into how this can happen. “But we are confident that with the current policy that we intend to implement, it will open up opportunities for other generators of electricity – be it solar, wind, geothermal or whatever other source we are confident can be produced here in TCI efficiently and then to have the lowering of the cost.” The Premier said the Government is confident that the policy will make these objectives a reality. (DI)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

Health pros take action against mosquito virus

Invoke positive change Dear Editor, I was commenting that I felt like I was in neighbouring Dominican Republic or Haiti when the electricity was down all over the island. The only difference with that scenario is that people in that region are prepared with generators being as common as refrigerators. Amazingly, this is not the first time we have had a power outage

due to fire at the power plant. My question is why? Is it common for a power company to experience fires so frequently? The last one being only a few short years ago.

Thank you for your support Dear Editor, The Grand Turk chapter of the TCSPCA would like to thank the following Government officials, local businesses and private individuals for their generosity and support which helped to make the January spay and neuter clinic such a big success. Dr Mark Butler Chief Veterinary Officer, Dept of Agriculture Lance Dowridge AHO, Dept of Agriculture Dujohn Fulford AHO, Inter Caribbean Airways, Lew 1 Shipping, The Osprey Beach Hotel, The Salt Raker Inn, The Bohio Dive Resort, The Sandbar, Captain Hooks Restaurant at White Sands Beach Resort, Jacks Shack, Jasmine Young and Daniel Oselette, Catherine Foley and Mitchell Loeb, Phyllis Hayward, Alessio Giorotti, Jackie Thomas, Hazel Thomson, Chris Davies, Dr

Meghann Kruck DVM, Erin Carston vet tech, Lauran Hofland vet tech, Susan Blehr executive director TCSPCA, Ibis Van Wallegham, Peter Halstead, Tony Fulford, John Hilton, Grand Turk SPCA volunteers and members and Grand Turk pet owners. The Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA) formed the Grand Turk chapter in the spring of 2011. The Grand Turk TCSPCA aims to provide a ‘voice for those who cannot speak’. Their goal is to ensure that every animal in the Turks and Caicos Islands is cared for and free from abuse. Please call 247-6235 for further information. Grand Turk TCSPCA

I have said time and time again. I can’t understand why in this day and age living in such an abundance of sunshine, the Government has not pressed the electricity company or renegotiated the contract in any way so that we may tap into solar power. It makes all the sense in the world considering that the electricity company will save money when excess power gets fed back into their grids. I have heard talks of wind generated power. While any alternative energy would be good, I would only hope if this is the way we choose to go that we consider how large windmills are and the elevation of the islands could create an eyesore. Facebook was flooded with business people and hotel guest and private residents complaining of lost business, break-ins, appliances being ruined and being in very uncomfortable circumstances. I have a feeling that Fortis is not going to compensate in any way for any loss under the circumstances, but we can at very least use this opportunity to try and invoke positive change. The world is moving towards going green. With oil reserves constantly under threat, it seems like a wise avenue to take at this juncture with alternative energy sources. Euwonka Selver, Long Bay, Providenciales

Les and Mary COMMENTARY

PERHAPS some readers might consider me square but my all-time favourite recording artists are Les Paul and Mary Ford. Les was born in 1915 and recently passed away still playing guitar well into his 90s. Mary went to heaven to wait on Les decades ago after diabetes took her life. Les was entertaining audiences as a teenager. Les Paul developed the solid body guitar and invented multiple recordings. Today the music stores of the

By David Tapfer world are full of LP style guitars. Les Paul multiple recordings of the early 50s showed the way for the Beatles, Eagles and many other multiple

SPACE IS LIMITED!

guitar bands. Last year at the third annual Doris Robinson Primary School music concert student Matayo Neat and I did our instrumental version of Les and Mary’s biggest hit Vaya Con Dias. We played the piece on our baritone ukes also known as tenor guitars. It is my hope that Matayo and other Middle Caicos music students stay with their music which could provide primary or secondary careers. Musical lyrics are poems that often contain lessons within their words.

HEALTHCARE professionals were this week taught the facts and figures about a new mosquito-borne virus that is making its way across the region. Chikungunya was first identified in Saint Martin in December 2013 and has since spread to four other islands in the Caribbean. No cases have been confirmed in the TCI to date, however the mosquito that carries the disease is common across the country. On Tuesday (February 11) and Wednesday (February 12) the Ministry of Health and Human Services held two day long awareness workshops. A press release from the Ministry of Health and Human Services said: “The ministry is taking a proactive approach to increase education and awareness about chikungunya in light of the outbreak that occurred December 12, 2013, on the island of Saint Martin and subsequently spread to neighbouring Caribbean islands.” As well as promoting awareness the sessions were offered advice on improving the healthcare capacity for early detection, boosting management and monitoring of suspected cases of the virus, and strengthening surveillance systems. In January the Ministry of Health and Human Services released a statement advising the public to protect themselves from bites. It read: “Chikungunya is a viral disease, carried mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito which is widely dispersed in the Caribbean region including the Turks and Caicos Islands. This is also the vector that causes dengue. “Symptoms of chikungunya virus include sudden high fever, severe pain in the wrists, ankles or knuckles, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and rash.

“Joint pain and stiffness are more common with chikungunya than with dengue.” It went on to say that symptoms appear between four to seven days after the bite of an infected mosquito. The majority of clinical signs and symptoms last three to ten days, but joint pain may persist longer. Severe cases requiring hospitalisation are rare, but anyone experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms is asked to visit their doctor or a healthcare clinic immediately. There is no vaccine or treatment available for chikungunya so the best way to stay protected is prevention. “Prevent mosquitoes breeding in and around your home environment,” the statement urged. “Wear long-sleeved clothing or long pants, use insect repellents liberally, use mosquito nets at night, inspect your home and yard weekly, keep water drums and barrels tightly covered, check your gutters.” The ministry also advised residents to throw out stagnant water from flower vases, old tyres, and other containers that might act as breeding sites. And finally call the Environmental Health Department to treat large bodies of stagnant water on or around property. The Ministry of Health and Human Services along with other Caribbean health authorities are working with Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) to implement public health measures. These include identification and clinical management of cases, vector control measures, enhanced surveillance and public education. “Let us all work together to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Protect yourself, your home and environment today,” the statement read.

Only youths hold the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The future world is in their hands. The teachers and parents of this country hold the future in their hands through the children God has blessed to their care. Are we worthy? Failure is not an option. If we fail at everything else we still need to invest and believe in our youth. They are the future and the ones who will have to decide in the future how and where we stand. How many years and dollars have been wasted without building the needed schools? How many scholarships have been guided away from the most important career, teaching? While we value the work done by the teachers we import to teach our children, how can we complain when the culture of TCI is at risk? We need TCI teachers to teach TCI culture as

part of the curriculum. Right now the tremendous cost of marginal healthcare has stalled the needed growth in education and this must stop. No wonder our Premier Rufus Ewing, an educated man, avoids the health cost and quality issue as if it is his own private plaque. We believe it is! If this Government is to survive, this problem must be solved and quickly. NHIP is not affordable healthcare and its cost and quality is a reflection of those that created it. It is time to tell the truth and do what is right for the children of the TCI. Those who were born here, and those that came here. Otherwise the future of TCI will be like the old folk song message, just ‘Blowing in the wind’.

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

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

World renowned eco-warrior to visit TCI A MUCH revered conservationist will be visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands at the end of this month to educate the public on the importance of preserving the environment. Fabien Cousteau is an aquatic filmmaker, writer, explorer and the grandson of famous marine expert Jacque Cousteau. Born in France he followed his grandfather’s footsteps and dedicated his life to furthering understanding and preservation of the global marine environment. From February 28 to March 6 Cousteau will be in Providenciales where he will meet residents and tourists during a series of interactive events. He said: “I am very excited to be visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands, home to the third largest barrier reef system and some of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean. “I look forward to sharing my views regarding the importance of coral reefs and a healthy marine environment to island nations such as the TCI, as well as enjoying a few days exploring the waters around the TCI.” The visit is being hosted by the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF), a volunteer-run organisation that provides funding for education, research and conservation

programmes to help to preserve and protect TCI’s marine environment. During his time in the TCI Cousteau plans to share his vision, expertise and commitment with the community. David Stone, deputy chairman of the TCRF, said: “His visit will be packed with educational events for all members of the TCI public and we urge everyone to take advantage of one or more of the incredible opportunities to interact with him during his visit.” On Saturday, March 1, Cousteau will attend the third annual TCRF cocktail reception where he will give a key speech. The event will take place at the Regent Palms from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and music will be provided by David and Shara Bowen. Tickets are $60 each and include complimentary champagne, hors d'oeuvres and a one year TCRF membership. On Sunday, March 2, Cousteau will be chatting to up to 40 guests on the Atabeyra sail boat during their sunset tour around the islands. The trip will take place from 4pm to 6pm, tickets are $50 each and rum punch and snacks are included. On Monday, March 3, a small group of students from the West

Cousteau will meet residents and tourists during a series of interactive events in Providenciales

Indies Collegiate will have the opportunity to explore the reef with Cousteau during a two tank dive with Dive Provo. Then on Tuesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 5, Cousteau will host an educational outreach programme for TCI’s students. This will take place at the West Indies Collegiate where he will talk to scores of youngsters about the importance of protecting the marine environment. David Stone, deputy chairman of the TCRF, said: “We are very excited that Mr Cousteau was willing to join us for this event prior to his planned

record breaking expedition for 31 days to the bottom of the ocean off the Florida Keys.” In 2013 Cousteau announced his Mission 31 endeavour that will break new ground in ocean exploration. It coincides with the 50th anniversary of a monumental legacy left by his grandfather Jacques-Yves Cousteau, credited with creating the first underwater habitats for humans and leading a team of ocean explorers on the first attempt to live and work underwater aboard Conshelf Two. Mission 31 will expand the 50-year-old Cousteau legacy by one full day, 30 more feet of saturation and will broadcast every second on multiple channels. “His marine environment protection efforts are world renowned and his Mission 31 will only further help us understand the marine environment and man’s interaction with it,” Stone said. “We hope that his presence at our annual event will help raise awareness of the importance of the marine environment to the health of the TCI and to the health of the local economy.” For more information on the TCRF or to purchase a ticket for any of the above events, visit www. tcreef.org.

ABOUT COUSTEAU Growing up on decks of his famous grandfather’s ships, Calypso and Alcyone, Fabien Cousteau knew he would work to protect the planet’s immense and endangered marine habitats. From his vast experience in the field, coupled with a degree in environmental economics from Boston University, he has refined a public policy platform. It is grounded by his strong belief that environmental discipline can be the basis for innovative solutions that strike a balance between regional and global environmental problems and the realities of market economies. In 2006, Fabien partnered with his father, Jean-Michel Cousteau, and sister, Celine, to complete a threeyear multi-hour series for PBS called Ocean Adventures. In 2010, he launched Plant a Fish, an innovative non-profit organisation designed to empower communities and children to help restore their local water ecosystems through the healthy ‘replanting’ of key marine species. An active writer, he is currently working on a children’s book trilogy, and he also speaks at a variety of global and domestic environmental and water conferences as well as mainstream business conferences.

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

Senior civil servants urged to do their jobs FOLLOWING the recent post office fiasco and the outcry over the failing ambulance service, Premier Rufus Ewing has sent out a strict warning to senior civil servants to do their jobs properly. “It is a sad that this is an issue that should have been addressed by the relevant persons for some time now, particularly after my visit to the post office in late December of last year. “This is the kind of thing that I would also remind civil servants about – it is that when particular instructions are given I expect for those instructions to be followed and carried through as opposed to having them fester and result in situations like these where staff will rise up, and rightfully so

because of the conditions under which they are working,” Ewing told the press on Thursday. With regard to the ambulance service – which this publication exposed for its substandard quality – the Premier said his Government has committed itself to the provision of effective ambulance service on the family islands – North, Middle and South Caicos. “We can confirm that the ambulance that was budgeted for, for North, Middle and South Caicos, that we have received estimates to go out for tender to be procured and we expect that those ambulance will arrive in those islands in due course,” he added. He stated that the procurement process has been lengthy one, and

that this is a major challenge under the Procurement Ordinance and which the Government intends to look at. “It is an elaborate process, an elaborate step that we have to go through in getting works done, such as procurement of goods and capital projects done, it is pretty challenging and it becomes frustrating at times but we are going to continue to push forward to get these things done on behalf of the people. “[We will] identify those areas of challenge in the Procurement Ordinance to bring them to the House and change them accordingly so to make the work of Government more efficient and effective in the future.”

The Premier also issued a reminder to civil servants in senior positions that regardless of the limited resources that may be available from time to time, the Government expects them to conduct their duties efficiently and to the best of their abilities to ensure that those persons responsible for maintaining necessary equipment and vehicles make sure that they are operational at all times. He added that these persons need to take due care and attention to these issues. “We as a Government will continue to push and make sure that the relevant authorities - ministries and Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Governor or statutory bodies that are responsible for the operational aspects of the bodies -

set policies and make sure that those persons responsible for executing the policies do their jobs. He noted that currently they are awaiting the purchase of police vehicles to help officers get their job done. “We know we have put in place a number of operations from the police standpoint to combat crime in our communities, but they have been hampered in their lack of vehicles. “These vehicles went out for tender and we expect that those vehicles to arrive in the islands in due course and that would greatly assist the police in the conduct of their jobs for patrol especially on the island of Providenciales.” (DI)

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lifestyle... 14

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

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

Firecracker plant RUSSELIA equisetiformis, alternately known as the firecracker plant and coral plant, is nearly leafless and bears hanging flowers on wisp like stems, gracefully arching towards the ground. Use the firecracker plant as an informal hedge or border plant as long as there is enough width for the plant to grow. Place russelia amongst larger foliage like alocasia for a bold effect! It also looks superb when planted adjacent to other flowers that hang downward, such as the (also red) hibiscus or maybe some angel’s trumpets. Some other hummingbird attracting plants with red flowers include firespike, coral bean, heliconias and bromeliads. There is also a cream flowered form but I don’t like it as much and there is a rare form with salmon-

coloured flowers. Also easy to propagate by division of clumps, it is a bit more difficult to start from cuttings, and you can collect seeds to replant as well. Obviously the big selling point on the firecracker plant is its long floral display, lasting all year and attracting of hummingbirds. I love how the flowers seem to dance and vibrate even when still, with all the pendant blooms angled slightly off kilter so they trick your eye into seeing rhythm. The plant’s habit is a billowing one, and this is used to great effect when planted on hillsides, behind retaining walls and in large containers or hanging baskets so the feathery stems can drape down in a lush curtain. This makes it perfect for obscuring eyesores. On the other side of the heap is a weeping yaupon holly that mirrors

Weekly Recipe

Beef stew SERVES: 12

SERVES: 10

• 2 teaspoons cold water

INGREDIENTS • 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil • 4 cubes beef bouillon, crumbled • 4 cups water • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary • 1 teaspoon dried parsley • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper • 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed • 4 carrots, cut into one inch pieces • 4 stalks celery, cut into one inch pieces • 1 large onion, chopped • 2 teaspoons corn starch

DIRECTIONS • In a large pot or dutch oven cook beef in oil over medium heat until brown. • Dissolve bouillon in water and pour into pot. Stir in rosemary, parsley and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for one hour. • Stir potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion into the pot. Dissolve corn starch in two teaspoons of cold water and stir into stew. • Cover and simmer one more hour.

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.

the effect of the graceful weeping foliage nicely, so when you approach down the side yard you just see arching foliage. Russelia is usually known as a drought tolerant plant, but here in the Islands they require water regularly. I’ll also note that my largest plant is located in a wet spot that never quite dries out. The crown stays above the waterline, but it still seems pretty well adapted to its soggy situation. Firecracker plant is a large plant and must have room to grow. It does not respond well to heavy pruning and looks particularly ugly when

sheared or boxed; in fact, some plants never recover from severe pruning. In south west Nigeria the plant is used in traditional medicine to

treat diabetes and leukaemia and in traditional medicine it is also said to promote hair growth. It is also used to treat malaria and inflammatory diseases.

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

Where do we go wrong with nail breakage? EVER wonder why your nails break so easily and are always so brittle? In some cases, the condition of your nails may be reflecting a change in your health. However the changes can be relatively harmless issues that arise from nails being over exposed to water, detergent and even coloured nail polish. When it comes to damaged nails, there is no real quick fix. It can take months to repair them considering their sluggish growth rate at 0.1 mm a day. There are three leading mistakes we often make when it comes to our nails and avoiding them can make a world of a difference. False nails There is nothing wrong with opting for false nails but if you have trouble growing your nails this isn’t the best route. You are not dealing directly with the issue and you could actually worsen things. Your nail technician may contradict going bare by telling you that you should cover up but if you were selling a product to make another potential dollar, wouldn’t

you say anything? None of us like unsightly nails however they will remain unsightly if you continue to convince yourself that layering on gel-ish, silks and acrylics will improve things. PRO TIP: If you do choose a clear polish, pick out a hardener to help along the way but use this sparingly. Simply alternate every two weeks between a regular clear top coat because nail flexibility is still important. Completely hardened nails become stiff and easier to break off. Lack of moisture How often do you moisturise your hands after exposing them to soapy water or other chemicals? Nails get dehydrated too, even after the use of nail polish removers which are typically alcohol based.

I find putting oil around the cuticle helps moisturise the entire nail, which can help to reduce chipping, cracking, and splitting. PRO TIP: There are many products on the market for nail repair but keep things simple and chemical-free with a little olive oil which widely known for its healing properties. Attacking the cuticles Manipulating your cuticles is the number one offence of nail care in my book. In many states in the US cutting cuticles is actually illegal for serious health reasons. Cuticles naturally protect the nail bed from bacteria and dirt. Clipping them makes infection more likely. If you consent to manipulating your cuticles at the salon, make sure that the technician uses fresh and disinfected tools. PRO TIP: Pushing back your cuticles is a much better option. Start by softening them first with warm water or creams available on the market. Remember to follow with a good moisturiser once done!

February 15 - 21, 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.

Grapes and resveratol WITH this being Valentine’s week and all it is a perfect time to talk about phytonutrients - a class of chemicals found in various plant foods that offer health benefits. Two weekends ago I attended the ‘Chocolate Lovers’ Showcase,’ a fundraiser put on by the Salvation Army. This event made chocolate lovers quite happy. As it turns out, chocolate seems to have some heart healthy benefits making it the perfect Valentine’s gift. However, there is a disclaimer; it seems only dark chocolate has any health benefits because of a class of phytonutrients known as flavonoids. Another class of phytonutrient that offers just as much heart protective benefit as dark chocolate is polyphenols. Polyphenols have become quite popular in recent years because, like its counterpart flavonoid, it helps to prevent blood clots, lowers blood pressure and improves the function of the blood vessels all leading to better heart function. While there are thousands of polyphenols, the one that has gotten the most media coverage is resveratrol. It is common knowledge now that a glass or two of red wine consumed daily can help to prevent heart disease; however, not everyone wants to drink wine or any other alcohol for that matter and may be wondering if they can get the same benefits without the alcohol. Luckily for you, many other foods such as grapes, apples, onions, soy, peanuts, berries, and several other vegetables and fruits are packed with polyphenols! Additionally, research now shows that indeed grape juice made from concorde grapes offer the same protection as red wine and in some cases it offers more protection than red wine. The reason being due to some of the chemicals used to prevent fungal growth on the grapes destroy some of the resveratrol. Red and dark-purple grapes consumed with the skins are also good sources of vitamins C, E, potassium and fibre. It is important to remember though that much of the nutritional benefit of the grape is found in its skin and seeds rather than the pulp. I have seen many people sit and painstakingly peel the skin off and at the same time, unknowingly discard most of the nutritional value. Grapes are an amazingly refreshing low calorie snack and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: Freeze grapes for a cool snack on a hot summer day, serve stewed grapes with meat items, add grapes to pasta dishes for a touch of sweetness, add to a green salad or fruit salad or serve grapes with wine, cheese and crackers as a delectable party food. And my husband swears that grapes with lightly salted peanuts is a snack compared to no other. February has been dubbed the month of love, so go ahead and show your heart some love.

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

Five ways to avoid an ankle injury NOT even the best trained athletes can completely avoid an ankle injury. There is a medal favourite that has had to watch the other competitors vie for an Olympic medal this week while she was side lined by an ankle injury in training. But here are five tips to avoid the dreaded ankle injury: There are specific exercises that concentrate on balance and develop proprioception. This means having the muscle reflexes tuned to respond to an uneven position and stabilise the ankle. One such training method is running on an uneven surface, such as a on a beach or a trail instead of the road. This has shown to decrease ankle sprains in soccer players. Another way is balancing on one leg, as you get better you can increase the difficulty by closing your eyes, by making the surface unstable, such as a pillow or a wobble board and finally by trying to complete another task at the same time such as

handling a ball. Ligaments protect the ankle joint, but are assisted by the muscles and tendons. Although we cannot strengthen the ligaments we can strengthen the muscles with specific ankle exercises. Many of these exercises are difficult with standard weights and training machines but elastic bands are quite helpful. Stretching can be beneficial but

don’t count on stretching just before your sport. Stretching contributes to flexibility but to be truly effective it must be part of your regular training routine. One thing that can help just before a sport is proper warm up. Getting the muscles ready to perform by warming up with sport specific exercises have been shown to reduce injury. Certain sports are high risk for ankle sprains. Basketball and football are the first to come to mind. Many players use taping to prevent injury while other use a lace up ankle brace. The evidence is mixed for preventative taping but some scientific studies indicate that bracing may be helpful in high-risk sports. One caveat though, bracing does not replace the changes to training mentioned above - they are the most important element to prevent ankle injuries while enjoying your sport.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Keep your kids safe online WHEN your kids start to interact on the internet - playing games, watching YouTube videos, socialising in virtual worlds, getting homework help, and searching on Google - you may feel that you’re losing control over your kids’ world. The best way to wrap your arms around your kids’ online activities is to spend some time with them while they’re visiting their favourite sites. Talk with them about what they like and what they don’t. Kids today can go online from so many different sources, including video game consoles, smart phones, and even handheld gaming devices. Young people are increasingly living their lives online and their digital devices are some of their favourite toys and tools. Shouldn’t this new playground be a safe and nice place? With your guidance, it can be. Teaching internet safety in the elementary years will have lasting rewards for you and your kids. Help your kids understand that they should never share their names,

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

schools, ages, phone numbers, or addresses. They should also never send pictures to strangers and never open email from strangers - it may contain viruses that can harm a computer. Teach your child to immediately tell an adult if something mean or creepy happens. Visit only age-appropriate sites. Check out the site before your kids visit it. Know what features and what content exist and make sure they’re good for your kids. Search safely. Use safe search settings for young kids or think about applying filtering software to limit inappropriate exposure. Avoid strangers. Tell your kids that people aren’t always who they say they are in cyberspace. Explain that if someone they don’t

know talks to them, they shouldn’t respond but should let you know. Be a good cyber citizen! Remind kids that an internet playground is still a playground and they need to play nicely. A good rule of thumb: If they wouldn’t do something in real life, they shouldn’t do it online. Find out how your children can report mean behaviour or unkind content on their favourite sites and teach them how to do it. Keep the computer in a central place. So you can see what’s going on. Establish expectations and limits about the amount of time your children spend online and what they do. View your own habits carefully. You are their role models. But, mostly, be involved and have fun with them! Keeping kids safe and teaching them how to use digital technology responsibly is all about staying involved. Start by showing interest in the sites they visit and the games they play and your job will be a lot easier when they start exploring these technologies more independently.

16 NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Raymond Gardiner High shines at talent show By Marguerite Anderson NORTH Caicos got talent! This was the slogan used by MC Cynclair Musgrove last Saturday, February 8, when Raymond Gardiner High School (RGHS) hosted its annual pre-valentine fundraising activity. This year’s event at the Horse Stable Beach Complex was a talent show featuring performances from students and a few teachers. The festivity is the main annual fundraiser for the graduating class each year and funds will go toward offsetting expenses for the valedictory service and graduation awards ceremony in June and July. The talent show which was scheduled to have started at 6pm got off to a late start. However, the top quality entertainment package was certainly worth the wait. The evening saw performances by the music department and a few from members of the performing arts club. Final year student Edwin Forbes’ saxophone rendition of ‘Lady in Red’ opened the event as an introduction of the illustrious moderator, Cynclair Musgrove aka Lady C Miss Musgrove’s dynamic personality and scintillating stage presence complimented the atmosphere for the evening’s event. The ambiance, which was set through the artistic efforts of visual arts teacher D Beckford assisted by

vice principal Anthony Hislop, saw Horse Stable Beach transformed into a romantic backdrop highlighting the theme of a ‘Red and White Affair’. The music department under the direction of Benjamin Lewis kept the tempo going as the spirited band of musicians, all comprising students of the school, whetted the appetites of those present. The band is a dynamic combination of students who have a mastery of at least two instruments with Nandina Hislop on keyboard and guitar, Armando Walkin on drums, Omel Gardiner on guitar and keyboard and Edwin Forbes on guitar and bongo drums. Forbes, who is popularly known as RGHS’ Sax Man, also gave solo instrumental saxophone performances. Among the outstanding performances were songstresses Indra Harvey, Savanna McCogg; and the trio of melodious female group in the persons of Danielle Walker, Cortrina Williams and Engelica Jackson (third form students). Indra Harvey, one of the crowd’s favourites, held the audience captive with her selection of slow jams and later with her transition into a medley of reggae love songs. Other highlights were from two female saxophonists Kamia Rolle and Gelicia Delancy. There were also items from the

performing arts club, in the form of a creative dance done by Shantia Harvey, and an acapella performance from ‘The Shai Boys’ with their rendition of ‘If I Ever Fall in Love Again’. The dynamic performing arts boys’ group comprised of Devon Williams (fifth form), Astacio Ariza (first form) and lead vocals Otis Arthur and Gregory Williams, both also first form students. Much to the delight of the more mature members of the audience, teacher Marguerite Anderson led the audience into a nostalgic journey with her rendition of Etta James’ ‘At Last’. The gaiety of the audience was intensified when Adelaide Oemler Primary School teacher Stafford Salmon had the crowd on its feet as persons danced to his mixed flavour of reggae medley. It was indeed an unforgettable experience, so much so that the spectators chanted for a repeat of a number of the performances. Everyone who came out to see the show was left totally satisfied. Principal Janet Walkin extended hearty thanks to all those who supported the venture. The organisers of the event Samantha Bowman, Mellissa Robinson, Fe Borromeo, Sylvester Ewen and Anthony Hislop did a commendable job.

Statute of limitations for civil matters being revised

CABINET has reviewed and subsequently approved a request for the statute of limitations on civil matters to be restricted and the legislation to be so revised to bring the current bill in line with that of the United Kingdom. The revision was put forward by Minister of Border Control and Labour, Don-Hue Gardiner during the February 12 meeting of Cabinet, the media learned on Thursday. At a post Cabinet update, Premier Rufus Ewing stated that the Governor has thus instructed the acting Attorney General to draft legislation for the establishment of a Statute of Limitations Bill in line with the Limitations Act, 1980 of the United Kingdom and/or the Limitations Act, 2002 of the Canadian Province of Ontario for civil matters only. The revised bill will come up for consideration by Cabinet and will then go to the House of Assembly for debate. When re-drafted, the bill will limit the time that people have until they

can bring a particular civil claim. Minister Gardiner told the press that this was introduced after a number of interactions with members of the public – businesses and private people – who indicated that some have had matters hanging around for a number of years. “As it stands presently there is no definitive limit on most matters and so what we are saying is that we would be following what happens in the UK and Canada, the Bahamas and throughout the rest of the world and we would say that for various actions, persons would have to bring their claims before a certain period of time is expired or else they will no longer be able to bring the claim.” He added that as it currently stands, there is no set time frame, but that the change is something Government would be discussing with the Bar Council and the courts as to what is appropriate. This consultation will take place following suggestions by the

Attorney General Chambers, and will form part of the bill in terms of actual limits. He noted that in some cases there may be no limit, such as fraudulent and breach of trust matters. However, in matters such as fatal accidents where there is already a statute of limitations requiring persons to bring a claim within a year, the minister said this may need to be looked at and maybe increase it to two years or whatever is decided. “And then there are other matters dealing with real property and defamation of character and those things. It is really unfair to have them lingering around forever. “If you would have slandered my name 15 years ago, should I still be able to come back 30 years later and bring a claim against you; the answer to that is absolutely no.” Gardiner noted that some of these things need a cap placed on them, and if persons want to bring these claims they need to do so in a speedy and timely manner. (DI)

This year’s talent show featured performances from students and teachers

Disaster management training STAFF from the Government’s Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies took part in a three day training session in Miami earlier this month. Department director Virginia Clerveaux and hazard mitigation officer Rikardia Pardo attended an assessor training course hosted by the Emergency Management Accreditation Programme (EMAP). The training took at the offices of the British-Consulate General from February 10 until 12. It provided information to assist attendees in assessing their jurisdiction’s disaster preparedness and response system. The main aims of the assessor training course are to obtain a basic understanding of EMAP

and to explore the application of its standards. It also provides an understanding of the accreditation process and allows attendees to explore the roles and responsibilities of an accreditation manager, assessor and assessor team leader. On completion of the training course all participants completed an open book paper exam after which they became eligible to serve as an accreditation manager. On Thursday, February13, the TCIG officials also participated in an overseas territories disaster managers’ work group meeting. For more information on EMAP visit www.emaponline. org.

Training promotes culture of safety ONE of the Government’s top disaster management employees is taking part in a two week work attachment to Jamaica. Community preparedness manager Desmond Lightbourne is spending from February 10 to 20 at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). The knowledge and skills transfer is expected to provide Lightbourne with the experience and skills needed to promote a culture of safety among the TCI population. While in Jamaica he will be assigned to the Jamaican government’s Preparedness and Emergency Operations Division but will also be widely exposed to community related activities. Specifically, he will conduct site visits to various community groups to observe their governance structures. The attachment will also see him support the development of at least one community based risk management plan. Lightbourne will spend some time attending meetings with partner agencies including the Red Cross, Ministry of Labour and

Social Security and Parish Disaster Committees (PDC). The objective will be to outline the role and functions of the various players in the ‘building resilient communities’ process. Finally he will attend a PDC meeting to observe how it functions to provide governance at a local level. The visit is being supported by TCIG’s Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME). A statement from DDME said: “Community based disaster management is a widely utilised strategy for engaging communities in planning and imparting skills transfer in relation to priority hazards, disaster preparedness and mitigation. “The skills transfer will serve to build the capacity of the DDME in community-based disaster management and is one of its priority actions as part of its seven year country work programme.” Jamaica is the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s (CDEMA) focal point for the north western sub-region of which the Turks and Caicos Islands is a part.

February 15 - 21, 2014

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

InterCaribbean Airways starts day trip to Cap Haitien BEGINNING Monday (February 17) InterCaribbean Airways is including an exciting day trip to Haiti on their scheduled flights, allowing individuals living and visiting the TCI a chance to experience some of the culture and history associated with the country. Every Monday and Wednesday the airline (formerly Air Turks and Caicos) will be offering a package where customers can enjoy a “day vacation to experience the beauty of Haiti and be back to Provo in time for dinner,” said InterCaribbean CEO Trevor Sadler. The package deal, which costs

$329, covers the round trip air fare, a visit to the largest mountaintop fortress in the Americas - the citadel, entrance into the national park, a horse ride, lunch at a creole restaurant, transportation on an air conditioned bus and a guide. Visitors will even leave knowing a few creole words and phrases after a brief creole lesson and have a chance purchase arts and craft at a local market, Sadler said. The CEO noted that although the company is taking a significant risk adding the extra flights, they hope to make the trip work and are consciously keeping the dollars and cents sufficiently low so people who

Undocumented Haitian migrants will be registered HAITI is launching an extensive programme to register migrants who live without documentation abroad, according to an Associated Press report this week. The Turks and Caicos Islands and the Dominican Republic are just some of the countries that will be looked at in a $2.5 million project when it begins next month. The programme comes after a Dominican constitutional court last year moved to revoke the citizenship of people of Haitian descent, Wednesday’s (February 12) article revealed. Advocacy groups feared the ruling rendered these people stateless, but the Dominican government maintained they never had citizenship in the first place. In a press conference last Thursday, February 6, Donhue Gardiner, Minister of Border Control and Labour, stressed that no children in the TCI should be stateless. He explained that children born to Haitian parents in the TCI can register for a Haitian passport immediately and for British overseas territory citizenship at the age of 10. “If a child is born in TCI and if that child is able to live in the TCI legally until that child turns 10-years-old then he or she may apply for British overseas territory citizenship by connection to TCI and have a passport and a right to work. “That same child of Haitian descent would also be entitled from birth to a Haitian passport and is always at the day the child

is born a Haitian citizen. “So to suggest that he or she may be stateless is not a true representation of what the law in the TCI is or what the law as represented to me in Haiti is.” Government officials from Haiti and the Dominican Republic began closed-door discussions this year in an effort to stem tension between the two countries. The decision to document Haitians who live abroad emerged as one of several agreements from those talks. On Thursday (February 13) Gardiner released a statement from his ministry on the topic of registering migrants without documentation. “I have some reservations that this strategy may not address the problem or bring about the desired results, and I hope that this announcement is more than a public relations exercise on the part of the Haitian government,” he said. “I will hasten to say, however, that a programme that would successfully register irregular Haitian migrants would be a positive step, and the terms of reference and operational framework of any such registration programme must be formally articulated and agreed by the Ministry of Border Control and Labour.” He explained that the Government was not officially informed of the imminent launching of this initiative and added that he would be meeting with Haitian consul to discuss the issue on Thursday. (RB)

A visit to the citadel in northern Haiti, the largest mountaintop fortress in the Americas, is part of the day’s agenda

would like to visit can do so. They have bought a bus to make sure the experience delivered to their customers is controlled and hopes that people will take advantage of the chance to see and experience the history, culture and craft that Haiti has to offer.

He also said that the company is happy to help Haiti’s local economy by “promoting Haitian tourism”. “Now that may sound like a strange combination of words when someone thinks about Haiti but Haiti has things to offer and it has to get

past the endless negativity that’s portrayed in the western news,” Sadler said. Apart from the day packages, InterCaribbean Airways offers daily flights to Cap Haitien, which is only a 35-minute flight from Providenciales. (KH)

New recruits with Permanent Secretary Clara Gardiner, Deputy Governor Anya Williams and Minister of Border Control and Labour Donhue Gardiner (seated)

Immigration department welcomes 13 newly trained employees

A HUGE staff boost in the Government’s Immigration Department will drastically improve efficiency, according to officials. Thirteen new recruits, who were employed in December 2013, have just completed their training and are ready to get to work. Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Minister of Border Control and Labour Donhue Gardiner and Permanent Secretary Clara Gardiner met the new staff members on Wednesday (February 12). They welcomed them to the civil service, spoke about their expectations and outlined plans for the ongoing improvement of the immigration service.

“This is the single largest tranche of recruitment that government has made recently,” Deputy Governor Anya Williams said. “The Immigration Department has great responsibilities and it is hoped that our new colleagues will be instrumental in helping the department do its job better. “These appointments form a part of our commitment to reform the Ministry of Border Control.” The recruits will work across the immigration front line at the airports, illegal immigrant detention centre and the Immigration Department offices. Their appointment will reduce the cost of both overtime and the need for additional private security firms

at the detention centre. Minister of Border Control and Labour Donhue Gardiner said: “This will be a year of transformation for the Ministry of Border Control as we continue to provide the manpower, resources and appropriate legislative framework to provide a professional public service and to counter the threat of illegal migration to our Islands – already unacceptably over one per cent of our Government’s entire budget. “This investment in new people is one way in which we are protecting our shores for citizens and visitors alike, as well as improving staff working conditions and investing in a purpose built IT system.”

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

Caribbean faces threat of biggest tsunami ever recorded THE Caribbean could be at risk from a mega-tsunami that scientists warn could devastate coastlines from Florida to Brazil following a volcanic eruption in the Canary Islands. The monster wave generated by part of a mountain collapsing into the sea would be the biggest ever recorded and would be an unstoppable force, travelling at speeds of up to 500mph. The massive wall of water would likely make first landfall on the West Saharan coast of Morocco, where the wave could measure as much as 330ft from trough to crest. The greatest destruction was nevertheless expected in the builtup coastal areas of the Caribbean, Florida and Brazil, according to a new forecast by Dr Simon Day of the Benfield Greig Hazard Research Centre at University College London. The tsunami could reach heights of 130ft to 164ft throughout the region and travel several miles inland, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Earlier research by Dr Day had predicted that a future eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano in the

A new study suggests that a mega-tsunami could devastate coastlines from Florida to Brazil following a volcanic eruption in the Canary Islands.

Canary Islands was likely to cause the western flank of the mountain to slide into the sea. Dr Day, working in conjunction with Dr Steven Ward of the University of California, has now produced an updated model that predicts more accurately the size of the tsunami and the areas it will impact. The model predicts that after the

landslide the tsunami would travel a distance of almost 155 miles in just 10 minutes and would reach the Caribbean and Florida in eight or nine hours. The forecast goes on to predict that a wall of water 164ft high could smash into the coasts of the Caribbean and Florida, while Brazil’s northern coast could be hit by a wave more than 130ft high.

Guyana steps up airport security in wake of US embassy warning THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) said it had increased its security following a statement by the United States Embassy here of “unconfirmed threat information” relating to flights by the Trinidadbased Caribbean Airlines (CAL) destined for the United States. In a statement, CJIA said that it has “since adopted the highest security posture to protect passengers, crew, aircraft and airport employees and to ensure the continued smooth and safe operations at the airport” The CJIA said it was urging passengers and other airport users to be on the “lookout for any suspicious activities or occurrences and report same to an airport security official” adding that the heightened security posture would remain in place over a number of days until such time as the threat is no longer deemed valid. CAL in a statement said that it was re-assuring passengers and the travelling public “ that specific layers of security have been added at our Guyana Airport Operations and we are working closely with all authorities to ensure appropriate security protocols are followed to ensure, safe, comfortable and ontime flight departures. “All Caribbean Airlines flights

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport has increased security following the warning.

are operating as scheduled. We thank the travelling public for their understanding of any inconvenience as special security measures have been put in place.” The United States Embassy in Guyana in a statement posted on its website Sunday said that the threats were for flights “departing on Monday, February 10, 2014. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Embassy advises all U.S. Citizens in Guyana traveling on Caribbean Airlines (CAL) to the United States

from Monday, February 10 through Wednesday, February 12, 2014, to make alternate travel arrangements. “We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Guyana enroll in the Department of States Smart Trabeler Enrollment Programme (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the U.S. Embassy.”

February 15 - 21, 2014

Restrict the number of children Jamaicans can have, says Opposition Senator OPPOSITION Senator Ruel Reid has renewed calls for Jamaica to pursue a mandatory policy restricting the number of children a man or woman can have. He argues that approximately 50 per cent of the country’s children are depending on State benefits through the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH). He says this suggests that parents are having children they cannot afford to maintain. PATH is the safety net programme that is funded by the Government and the World Bank which delivers benefits by way of cash grants to the most needy and vulnerable in the society. Senator Reid says PATH is not

the solution and Jamaica could pursue a policy similar to that being used by China to partly solve socio-economic problems. Persons who benefit from PATH include, children from birth to completion of secondary school, some elderly, persons with disabilities, pregnant and lactating women, and poor adults. Meanwhile, the Jamaica College principal says there is need for a cultural adjustment to address societal problems such as crime. He has called for greater emphasis on values and attitudes programmes to help in addressing the dysfunctional aspects of the society. According to Reid, behaviours will not change unless values change. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Trinidad and Tobago records more than 2,500 teenage pregnancies annually EDUCATION Minister Dr. Tim Gopeesingh said many men were getting away with statutory rape after indicating that more than 2, 500 teenage pregnancies are reported annually in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Gopeesingh, speaking in the Senate, said that most of the teenagers had become pregnant for fathers who were between the ages of 25-40 and that some of the mothers were below the ages of 12. The Education Minister told legislators research by the Faculty of Medical Science of the University of the West Indies (UWI) showed that by age 19, more than 1,000 young women already had four children. Dr. Gopeesingh, a gynaecologist with more than 27 years practice, described the situation as “frightening” saying that for every 15 new patients in the ante-natal, 10 were teenagers. He said the country could not continue to ignore the statutory rape of teenagers adding it was necessary to apprehended the fathers engaged in the practice so as to induce “fear among the perpetrators” that “t could serve as a deterrent to statutory rape. “It is an issue of socialisation and what these teenagers are looking for. When you question them, even when

I was in my own practice...they said they were looking for some degree of love. They felt they were not loved,” he said. According to figures released here on Tuesday, between 2008 and 2012, there were four reported cases of girls attending primary schools who gave birth and Dr. Gopeesingh said between the same period the Ministry of Education received reports of 153 cases of teenage pregnancy. But the figure could be higher, as The Ministry of Education said the cases were only those reported to its Student Support Services. Dr. Gopeesingh said there was under-reporting of teenage pregnancies and that many pupils merely dropped out of school and that the authorities were not able to track those pupils. Dr. Gopeesingh said the Ministry of education was reforming the primary school curriculum and the secondary school curriculum with morals, values and ethics, character development, citizenry development, physical education, visual and performing arts and health and family life education being added to the curriculum. He said social studies, with some degree of sex education, formed part of the secondary school programme. (CMC)

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

Sands dismisses rumours Bermuda Triangle just a myth, U.S. says of Ingraham return FORMER FNM candidate for Elizabeth Dr Duane Sands on Tuesday dismissed rumours that former Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is considering a return to frontline politics. Instead, he said, current FNM members must use Mr Ingraham’s influence to gain the public’s trust and eventually become the new government of the country. Asked on the Ortland Bodie show about rumours of Mr Ingraham’s return, he said: “We are now talking about hypotheticals but he has made it clear that he is not interested. “He has said that at this point he is done with front-line politics and I think given the incredible contributions that he has made to this country, we should allow him the privilege and the pleasure of enjoying the fruits of his labour and I think what we need to do as proteges, people who have been influenced,

Former Bahamian PM Hubert Ingraham would not return to the frontline of politics according to Dr. Duane Sands.

and I have been influenced by his leadership tremendously, is we ought to step up to the place, all of us, and grab the baton that he has presented to us and go win that gold medal for the country.” (Tribune242.com)

Cuba “will consider” EU proposal for cooperation pact CUBA’S government “will consider” a new European Union proposal to sign a cooperation agreement with the Caribbean country, the government announced Monday. “Cuba will consider the invitation put forth by the European side, in a way that is respectful, constructive and attached to its sovereignty and national interests,” Deputy Foreign Minister Rogelio Sierra said in a statement. The European Union announced Monday that it would seek to sign a new cooperation agreement with Cuba.

Earlier Monday, the EU’s Ambassador in Cuba, Herman Portocarrero, delivered a letter to Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez reporting on the EU’s proposal. “We are confident that mutual respect and the determination to find common ground will prevail, the Ambassador said Monday. Portocarrero said the EU had seen that Cuba had a “very important role” in regional cooperation, and that its role in regional integration in the future would be “very strong.” The EU resumed its cooperation with Cuba in 2008. (Caribjournal)

Obama encouraged by plans for long-overdue Haiti elections US President Barack Obama says he is encouraged with the progress being made by Haiti in scheduling long overdue elections in the country. During a meeting with Haitian President Michel Martelly on Thursday, Obama noted Haiti’s progress since the devastation, including improvements in security and infrastructure, but said it’s been “a very slow and difficult process.” “I think we all recognize that we all have a lot more work to do,” Obama said. “My message today to the president and the people of Haiti is that the American people are committed to standing with you in this process. We want to make sure that all the children of Haiti are able to lead lives of opportunity,

prosperity and security.” The US President said he was pleased that Haiti had made progress on a new election law that will “help resolve some of the political roadblocks” and lead to elections this year. The meeting, the first between the two leaders was held as Martelly faces increasing domestic and international pressure to schedule the long-delayed Senate and municipal elections in the country still recovering from the devastating earthquake in 2010. On Wednesday, 53 political parties ended the first phase of negotiations with the Martelly administration to stage one election this year — it will also include the entire 99-member lower chamber, which is up in October.

NOW it’s official: The Bermuda Triangle is a bunch of bunk. For decades, rumors persisted that hundreds of ships and planes mysteriously vanished in the area between Miami, Puerto Rico and Bermuda because it was cursed or patrolled by extraterrestrials. Most of us already suspected that was a myth. Yet, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration just posted a story declaring the Devil’s Triangle, as it’s also known, is no different than any other open ocean region — and that foul weather and poor navigation are likely to blame for any mishaps. “There is no evidence that mysterious disappearances occur with any greater frequency in the Bermuda Triangle than in any other large, welltraveled area of the ocean,” the agency stated this month on noaa.gov. Ben Sherman, spokesman for NOAA’s National Ocean Service, said the agency wrote the story as part of an educational program where it responds to readers’ questions. The story was based on information from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Guard, which make no bones about saying the mythological area is so much balderdash. “The Coast Guard does not recognize the existence of the so-called Bermuda Triangle as a geographic area of specific hazard to ships or planes,” the military branch said. “In a review of many aircraft and vessel losses in the area over the years, there has been nothing discovered that would indicate that casualties were the result of anything other than physical causes.” Not everyone is in full agreement, including Minerva Bloom. She’s a volunteer docent at the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum, which pays homage to Flight 19, perhaps

The Bermuda Triangle: Dozens of ships and planes have mysteriously vanished in this area between Miami, Puerto Rico and Bermuda, but authorities blame poor navigation and bad weather.

the highest-profile incident involving the Bermuda Triangle. The five U.S. Navy torpedo bombers took off from Fort Lauderdale on a routine training exercise in December 1945, never to return. “I don’t think there are aliens or anything like that, but I do think there’s something going on there,” Bloom said. One reason for that: In the early 1990s, she and her family flew in a seaplane operated by the now defunct Chalk’s International Airlines from the Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale. “The pilot said, ‘We’re going over the Bermuda Triangle,’ and all of the sudden, a screw fell from his panel,” she recalled. “He said, ‘that’s happened before, don’t worry about it.’ But it was just spooky.” Otherwise, more scientific study

should be done to determine if the Bermuda Triangle is inhabited by “some form of energy that hasn’t been explained yet,” Bloom said. “The Earth is full of pockets of energy, and there might be some sort of scientific explanation.” Since the early 1950s, some outrageous theories have surrounded the Bermuda Triangle. Among them: Space aliens hunt for human study subjects there; the lost continent of Atlantis exerts an evil influence there; or black-hole vortices pull objects into other dimensions from there. There also are more reasonable explanations, such as methane gas, erupting from ocean sediments have overwhelmed vessels or that strong magnetic forces can confuse sailors and pilots.

Bermudian found with US$1.5M worth of heroin in underpants A 24-YEAR-OLD Bermudian has been jailed for eight years after being caught with almost US$1.5 million worth of heroin in his underpants following a flight from England. Takai Tota, who pleaded guilty in November to possessing 499.82 grams of heroin with intent to supply, was sentenced by Supreme Court Puisne Judge Carlisle Greaves on Friday. The court heard that Tota and Seanee Smith, 26, left Bermuda on a flight to London on February 3 last year and returned to the island 10 days later. After collecting their luggage from customs, the two were sent to different customs officers for

secondary searches. The officers noticed a large bulge in Tota’s groin area and he appeared overly talkative and nervous. He was taken to a search room and asked if he had any drugs, replying: “Yes, I have coke in my underwear.” A search revealed five blue oval-shaped objects. While Tota repeated to officers that the packages contained cocaine, lab tests revealed the contents to be just less than 500 grams of heroin. The court heard that if sold on the streets of Bermuda the heroin could fetch as much as US$1,470,800. Tota was quoted in a social inquiry report as saying: “I was tired

of being broke. I wanted to help my aunt out. The struggle was getting hard at home and I was getting tired of not being able to assist. “All I can really say is I made a stupid choice. I shouldn’t have done it and I’m sorry for making such a dumb mistake,” he said. The judge told Tota - “I think there’s still hope for you. You made a stupid mistake. You were man enough to admit it. I believe your apology was sincere, and I doubt very much that you will repeat this offence again.” Tota’s accomplice, Smith, pleaded not guilty in November, but on Friday admitted possessing heroin. She will be sentenced later. (CMC)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

World News Hurricane-force winds leave tens of thousands without power in the UK TENS of thousands of homes are without power and commuters are facing major travel disruption after hurricane-force winds battered the UK on Wednesday. While forecasters predict some respite from stormy weather on Thursday, another Atlantic low could bring gales of more than 80mph from Friday. Severe flood warnings remain for Berkshire, Surrey and Somerset - all already hit by severe flooding. Train services in parts of the UK have been cancelled and roads are closed. On Wednesday afternoon a man, thought to be in his 70s, was killed in a suspected electrocution in Bremhill, Wiltshire, after a tree brought down power cables. The Met Office said a wind gust of 112mph was recorded at Great Dun Fell, in the Pennines, while a rare “red warning” for wind was issued. The Energy Networks Association, representing UK energy companies, said about 130,000 remained without power late on Wednesday night. The figure included about 52,000 in mid and north Wales, and 19,000

Blackpool. Lancashire, is among areas of the UK that have been battered by wind and rain.

in south Wales. About 13,000 homes in the West Midlands were still without power while 10,000 homes in Cheshire, 2,500 homes in the Wirral and 5,500 homes in north Shropshire remained affected. Some 3,000 homes in south-west England remained without power. Energy companies said engineers were working through the night to restore power. But things were expected to go

downhill again on Friday (after a better Thursday) with strong gales and the possibility of significant snowfall in Northern Ireland, southern Scotland and northern England. As well as 16 severe flood warnings, the Environment Agency has also issued about 400 less serious flood warnings and alerts, mostly in southern England and the Midlands. Surrey Fire & Rescue said it had rescued 250 people from the floods on Wednesday.

Independence vote: ‘Yes’ means no Scottish pound, says Osborne IF the Scottish people vote for independence, they will not be able to keep the pound as their currency, George Osborne will say in a speech in Edinburgh later. In an unprecedented move, Labour and the Lib Dems are expected to release statements with the same message. Mr Osborne will say he wants Scotland to keep its “economic security”. Deputy Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Westminster was trying to “lay down the law to Scotland”. The Scottish government wants to keep the pound in a currency union if there is a Scottish independence “Yes” vote on 18 September. “The pound is one of the oldest and most successful currencies in the world,” Mr Osborne will say. “I want Scotland to keep the pound and the economic security that it brings. “The UK works in good times and also in bad.” He said the constituent countries had collectively “faced the worst economic and financial crisis since the Great Depression”. He will add: “But we avoided the economic collapse other nations around us in Europe faced because,

Chancellor George Osborne, Labour Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls and Liberal Democrat Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander, want to block a currency union.

together, we had the strength to confront our problems and overcome them. “Today Scotland is one of the most economically successful parts of the UK with growth per head the same as the smaller independent European states the nationalists would like Scotland to join but with far more stability and less volatility than them, thanks to being part of the wider UK.” Shadow chancellor Ed Balls said Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond was trying to “pretend” to the country’s people there could

be an independent sovereign state while holding on to the benefits of the union. Mr Balls - who, like Treasury Chief Secretary Danny Alexander, is expected to release a statement after Mr Osborne’s speech - told LBC Radio: “That’s just not in the real world. “I don’t think it’s right for us to tell Scotland what they must do, but I don’t see how you could have a negotiation about a Scottish separate country keeping the pound, which would add up either for Scotland or for the rest of the United Kingdom.”

UK floods: No penny pinching over help says Cameron THERE will be “no penny pinching” when it comes to funding flood relief efforts, David Cameron has said as he announced extra financial help. Homeowners and businesses will get grants of up to £5,000 to pay for future flood protection, he told MPs. The prime minister has said “money would be no object” in the response. But Labour leader Ed Miliband said he had doubts about this “grand promise” of assistance and said those still at risk needed a “speedier response”. Speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions, Mr Cameron said the government would “spend whatever is necessary” on immediate support for flood-affected communities, including providing sandbags, pumping equipment and military assistance where requested. The flood protection grants will be available to all those whose homes have been affected. More than 5,500 homes have been inundated since December. Mr Cameron also announced a £10m package of support for waterlogged farms and said other affected businesses would be able to claim 100% tax relief on business rates for three months and be able to defer their tax payments. “I don’t want people to worry

UK’s PM David Cameron money would be no object in response to flood relief.

about penny pinching when they see the vital work that is needed to help them deal with their houses and help deal with the floods,” he said. “That is what this government is doing.” He accused his Labour counterpart of “dividing” the Commons over the issue at a time when the country should be pulling together in the face of adversity. Mr Miliband urged the government to reconsider planned cuts to the Environment Agency and said it should be spending more on flood defence in the future to make the UK more resilient. (BBC)

Ohio trio arrested for beating, starving, chaining up and raping young children FOUR Ohio children were systematically beaten, starved and chained to their beds by their own mother, grandmother and mother’s boyfriend, cops in Wheelersburg say. The boyfriend, Juan Carlos Sanchez, also allegedly raped two girls, ages 11 and 9, while living with Bobbi Sue Pack and Edwina Louis, cops allege. The girls and an 8-year-old brother have marks and scars on their bodies that investigators say prove the guardians beat the children with belts and paddles and tied them to their beds with chains, sometimes for weeks at a time, the Columbus Dispatch reported. A 2-year-old, reportedly Sanchez’s daughter, did not have any scars. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime, a once-in-a-career case,” Scioto County Sheriff’s Office Capt. David Hall told the newspaper. “It’s horrific, emotional and awful for everyone involved. But those kids? They are so brave, and they would just warm your heart if you could see them. Thank God for their good little spirits.” Authorities finally learned of the sickening case after the older

Juan Carlos Sanchez is charged with rape and child abuse of his girlfriend’s three children, who authorities say were kept chained to their beds and starved in the family’s Ohio home.

children, who attend an online school, emailed a teacher Jan. 30 and begged her to call 911. The children were removed from the home and a search turned up “plenty of evidence” that the kids’ horrifying story of abuse was true, Hall told the Dispatch. The beatings happened frequently, authorities say, and the children were kept naked and chained up for most of the time, except to do homework and check in at their virtual school.

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News Trump flirts with a run for governor at Manhattan Republican Party dinner BIG talker Donald Trump stoked the hopes of 300 Republicans Wednesday night by trash-talking Gov. Cuomo and promoting himself as a can’t miss candidate to defeat the incumbent Democrat. “The Republicans can absolutely win,” Trump told a Manhattan Republican Party dinner. “You have a governor whose father was a terrible governor. One of the worst.” But there was a catch, as there always is when The Donald flirts with running for office. Trump said he would enter the race only if the Republican Party was unified behind him. “The last thing you need is a primary where two people go beat the hell out of each other and then come limping into an election against someone that should absolutely be beaten,” Trump said. “If that were the case, I would run and I believe I would win.” No matter that polls show his approval ratings are in the basement and that no insiders think Trump would ever run (he never does) — the dinner appeared to be mutually beneficial for both sides. The Manhattan Republican Party said it raised $60,000 — and Trump basked in the glow of hundreds of Republicans urging him to run. In his 20-minute speech at the

Donald Trump speaks at the Manhattan Republican Committee annual Lincoln Day Dinner. He said he would run for governor if the state Republican party supported him without a primary challenge.

Grand Hyatt Hotel, which he justso-happens to own, Trump praised Russian President Vladimir Putin and mocked the still-unfinished Second Ave. subway. “He outsmarting our leaders,” The Donald said of Vlad. “We’re criticizing them because a doorknob’s broken in someone’s bathroom (at the Olympics), because the food isn’t so great. ... We’re criticizing like we don’t make mistakes. Right here we have the Second Avenue subway. They call that a tunnel to nowhere.”

Rights groups warn of ethnic cleansing of Muslims in Central African Republic ATTEMPTS to purge Muslims from parts of the war-torn Central African Republic have prompted “a Muslim exodus of historic proportions,” rights group Amnesty International warned Wednesday. International peacekeepers have “failed to prevent the ethnic cleansing of Muslim civilians in the western part of the Central African Republic,” the group said. Another rights group, Human Rights Watch, also warned Wednesday that the country’s minority Muslim population is “being targeted in a relentless wave of coordinated violence that is forcing entire communities to leave the country.” The Central African Republic, a former French colony, was plunged into chaos last year after a coalition of mostly Muslim rebels dubbed Seleka ousted President Francois Bozize. They have since been forced out of power, but Christian militias, known as the anti-balaka, which translates as “anti-machete,” have been allowed to fill the power vacuum, Amnesty International said, with dire consequences for Muslim civilians. “Anti-balaka militias are carrying out violent attacks in an effort to ethnically cleanse Muslims in the Central African Republic,” said Joanne

Human Rights Watch warned on Wednesday that the Central African Republic minority Muslim population is “being targeted in a relentless wave of coordinated violence that is forcing entire communities to leave the country.”

Mariner, senior crisis response adviser at Amnesty International. “The result is a Muslim exodus of historic proportions.” The Amnesty International report said international peacekeepers in the country must do more to protect Muslim communities and rein in the anti-balaka militias. There are about 1,600 French troops on the ground, alongside about 6,000 soldiers from an African Union-led peacekeeping force, known as MISCA. The rights group also said the backlash against Muslim civilians was foreseeable -- and should have been prevented.

Oklahoma cop sues over firing after he cited 3-yearold for peeing in public All but one, of the 78 on the plane, died.

Algeria mourns dozens killed in military plane crash ALGERIA has begun three days of national mourning for the 77 people killed in a military passenger plane crash in the north-east of the country. Just one person survived when the Hercules C-130 crashed into a mountain in Oum al-Bouaghi province, en route to Constantine, in bad weather conditions. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika has praised the soldiers who died in the crash as “martyrs”. Most of the 78 passengers were military personnel and their family members. The lone survivor, a soldier, is reportedly being treated for head injuries

at a military hospital in Constantine. The defence ministry said it had set up a commission to investigate the crash and that Ahmed Gaid Salah, who is both army chief of staff and deputy defence minister, would go to the crash site. In a statement, the defence ministry blamed “very bad weather conditions, involving a storm and heavy snowfall” for the crash. Local television showed footage of the aftermath of the plane crash Security sources and state media originally reported 103 people on board the flight, but the number was later revised down by the military to 78.

AN Oklahoma cop canned for citing a 3-year-old boy for peeing outside is now suing the city of Piedmont for unfairly flushing his career. Kenneth Qualls claims he had permission from on high to give little Dillan Warden a $2,500 public urination ticket in November 2012 after the tot unzipped in his pants on Ryan Drive. The prohibited pee was on private property, the boy’s mother, Ashley Warden, said at the time. “I said really, he is 3-years-old, and [the officer] said it doesn’t matter – it’s public urination,” the boy’s grandmother, Jennifer Warden, told KWTV News 9 at the time. But about 10 days after the ill-advised ticket, Qualls was dumped from the department, The Oklahoman reported. “Of course we did receive a lot of notoriety over that,” City Manager Jim Crosby said at the time of the pee heard ‘round the world.

Qualls contends the charge wasn’t dropped — only amended to contributing to a delinquency of a minor — and that the city’s police chief knew of the ticket the day after it was issued but did not intervene. During the 2012 pissing match, the officer was even called “stupid” by the city’s mayor, furthering muddying his reputation, the suit claims. The city denies the claims, except for the fact that a personnel board did vote to fire Qualls, a veteran officer with 18 years of law enforcement experience. But little Dillan’s grandmother said at the time of the ticket that the officer was just bothering the family and would frequently wait down the rural street in patrol car doing nothing at all. “I am disappointed that the officer thinks ... what he needs to do with my tax dollars is sitting and harassing our family,” she told the TV station. (NYdailynews.com)

“In power for nearly 10 months, the Seleka were responsible for massacres, extrajudicial executions, rape, torture, and looting, as well as massive burning and destruction of Christian villages,” it said. “As the Seleka withdrew, the international forces allowed the antibalaka militias to take control of town after town. The resulting violence and forcible expulsion of Muslim communities were predictable.”

Belgian MPs due to vote on child euthanasia

BELGIUM’S MPs are expected to vote on whether to extend a euthanasia law to terminally-ill children. The bill seeks to allow children to ask for euthanasia if their illness is terminal, they are in great pain and there is no available treatment. The lower house is likely to back the bill, correspondents say. To become legal, it then needs to be signed by the king, making Belgium the first country in the world to remove any age limit on the practice. The signature of the legislation by King Philippe is seen by analysts as a formality. The proposal has already passed a number of legal hurdles, and appears to have wide support across Belgium, the BBC’s Duncan Crawford in Brussels reports. Belgium passed a law decriminalising euthanasia for terminally ill people over the age of 18 in 2002. (BBC)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

26 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

Signature Noodle Bar and Kitchen launched SPECIAL guests were treated to the culinary expertise of Chef Wolfgang von Wieser at the launch of West Bay Club’s recently re-branded restaurant on Tuesday (February 11). With a menu crafted and finetuned to a delicious finish, the Noodle Bar and Kitchen is the newest spot for residents and visitors alike on Grace Bay in Providenciales. Launching the restaurant were chief operating officer and principal of the Grace Bay Resorts, Nikheel Advani, and general manager of West Bay Club, Adelphine Pitter. Chef Wolfgang said: “We were rethinking what can we do on the island that would give us a little edge on the others already existing and I think moving forward and the evolution of our industry it is important to come up with new things.” He said they would like clients to see this new eatery as a destination restaurant on island, offering wide choices in noodles – some with Asian influences – rice dishes and a variety of locally available seafood. “I think it was a great idea, and

Nikheel Advani, chief operating officer and principal of Grace Bay Resorts, and general manager of West Bay Club, Adelphine Pitter, at the opening of the new signature restaurant

so brainstorming with Nikheel and Miss Adelphine we came up with something that is little bit different and not like everybody else,” chef Wolfgang said. “So we hope we can bring Turks and Caicos to the next level with

Opposition hosts radio chat show MEMBERS of the Opposition have launched a new talk show to allow the public to voice their issues. The programme named ‘Raising TCI’ hit the airways on January 20 on Tropical Vibes 105.5 and 103.5. It is hosted by Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and National Chairman Clarence Selver among others. Cartwright Robinson explained that it is important to be able to reach the masses and demonstrate that the party takes its commitment to accountability seriously. “Elected persons must use all medium to remain in contact with its people so that they can hear the issues as it affects them, to hear constructive criticism and to ensure that accurate information is spread,” she said in a press statement on Thursday (February 13). “We believe that this is long overdue and is especially needed in these times. “It is so important as we seek to raise TCI from the ashes and the tumultuous immediate past.” The show’s only rule is that no caller will be allowed on air if their aim is to assassinate the character of anyone or to engage in negative and destructive criticism. “We believe that we must

move to a higher level of maturity where we can discuss, agree and disagree on issues in a respectful and productive manner,” she said. “This show is different because we ensure that on each show at least one sitting member of parliament appears and speaks to the issues, shares the PDM’s views and hears callers concerns which we report on in subsequent years.” Joining the Opposition Leader as a regular host is National Chairman Clarence Selver who said that the party must remain connected to the people in all ways. “The PDM will always seek new and innovative ways to positively grow and impact this country,” he said. “You will soon see new hosts representing different demographics and you will also see a greater approach to education on critical topics like the constitution and the budget. “We do trust that the degree of depth and maturity we bring to the issues will cause our listeners to more and more see us as the better choice to govern this country.” The show airs from Monday to Thursday between 4pm and 6pm on Tropical Vibes 105.5 and 103.5 and streams live on www. tropicalvibestci.com.

this set up and what I see here on island is that the culinary events are getting better and better and the participation is more and more from the local chefs.” Asked how the past seven months have been since the resort evolved into a Grace Bay Resort branded company, Pitter said it has been exciting for her, for Grace Bay Resorts and the staff. “I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish at this time, and it will continue.

Six of the many dishes taken from the repertoire of the chefs at the Noodle Bar and Kitchen

“We have been getting constant feedback from our owners, our repeat guests and the staff as well and all of those feedbacks; I must say I am proud.” Speaking on behalf of Grace Bay Resorts, Advani said: “For us it has been an extremely great experience to be able to embrace a property that has so much bones and to add our flavour, which is really the people and how they react.” Meanwhile, the new restaurant is

actually a re-conceptualisation of the existing one, the ‘Atlantic Bar and Grill’. It has now been redesigned with new food and beverage offerings, featuring a trending concept and a menu curated specially by group director of food and beverage, Chef Wolfgang von Wieser. There is additional seating and a newly renovated outdoor space, allowing it to accommodate up to 80 guests. (DI)

Wilphen Turenne, Marcella Williams, Robert Lewis, counsellor Carline Campbell and gender affairs coordinator Carolyn Dickenson

Prison staff to teach offenders empathy for victims PRISON officers learnt how to deliver a victim empathy programme (VEP) recently as part of the lock up’s offender rehabilitation process. The eight day course at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk was led by Simon Drysdale, offending behaviour delivery manager from the UK prison service. Prison Superintendent Ian Sargent said: “The introduction of this course to run as part of the sentence management planning is a clear sign of the support from the ministry in developing

accredited programmes for offenders. “For TCI to gain staff accreditation in VEP is a major step in the rehabilitation strategy and cannot be underestimated in terms of offender interventions.” Prison officers and gender affairs coordinator Carolyn Dickenson took part in the sessions which ran from January 29 to February 7 and included offence analysis together with group work. It covered the impact on victims of the offence while placing the

offender in the position of empathy and understanding towards the victim’s position and the wider implications of their actions. The training enables the officers to deliver empathy courses alongside the current offending behaviour programmes, anger management and the cognitive skills course. At the end of the course Permanent Secretary of Environment and Home Affairs, Susan Malcolm, presented participants with certificates of completion.

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

28 NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Rotary’s district governor visits TCI THE DISTRICT governor of the Rotary Club visited the Turks and Caicos Islands last week; assessing the shape of the club, offering suggestions and assistance, and also providing inspiration and encouragement to members. Jeremy Hurst, governor of district 7020, and his wife Michelle were welcomed on February 3 by members of the Rotary Club, who spend time engaging him in their service activities and contributions to the community. His visit to the TCI concluded the district tour of 82 clubs which he was required to visit as part of his role as district governor. Hurst is responsible for leading Rotary district 7020 which spans more than 80 clubs in 16 islands and 10 countries including the Cayman Islands, Bahamas, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Haiti, Anguilla, St Martin and the Turks and Caicos Islands. During his visit, Hurst spent time on Grand Turk, Providenciales and North and Middle Caicos, assessing and getting to know the Rotary and Rotaract Club’s projects on each island. In a gathering held on Thursday (January 6) at the Pelican Bay Restaurant in Providenciales Hurst addressed the Rotary Club members, visiting Rotarians and others in

attendance. He said that the club ranked one of the best Rotary Clubs in district 7020 because of the projects they carry out, capability of raising funds, continuity and dedication. He also said the district ranks one of the best in the Rotary world with some of the most diverse, energetic and vibrant members he has seen coming from the region. Hurst delivered a stirring speech to the crowd, congratulating the Rotary and Rotaract clubs on the tremendous job done in Providenciales, Grand Turk and the other islands. Acknowledging that presently it is a harder time to be a Rotarian, he encouraged them to keep on investing their time and effort and reminded the group that it is in times like these when the needs of communities are the greatest. He encouraged the group to engage and spread the workload and continue to deliver good service to the community even though there might be challenges with membership and fundraising. “You as a Rotary Club know how to run a Rotary Club...your ongoing fundraisers, raffle, bingo, the constant fundraising gives the club the security it needs,” he commended.

Li Welch of Cay Light photography hosted a stall and took photographs of the event

Rotary Club President Raymond Kushnie presents a gift to the District Governor, while Rotarian Kim Stubbs (centre) looks on

The Rotary Club of Providenciales has 33 members who engage in community projects such as park clean-ups, donations to the SNAP centre, dictionary donations to third grade students across the Islands,

food packages to senior citizens, backpack donations for students in Haiti and a multitude of other projects. President of the Rotary Club of Providenciales, Raymond Cushnie,

Thea Gangasingh, makeup artist with Thea Charrish Ferguson demonstrates her line of jewellery from Lux Looks Makeup Artistry shows off her latest look

said that they were thankful for the words of encouragement and motivation and the efforts made by the district governor to help offer solutions to challenges faced by the individual groups.

Delicious cupcakes from confectionary creators Cake Couture

Style showcase is a hit with attendees FASHION fans had the opportunity to buy some of the latest stylish attire and meet with small business owners at a ‘sip and shop’ event on Saturday (February 8). The free talent and style showcase named ‘February Hit List: Cocktail Mixer and Shopping Palooza’ took place at Zanzi Bar on Leeward Highway.

Attendees enjoyed drinks and food while they browsed the stalls which featured locally made handbags, jewellery, cakes and hair products. Makeup stylist Thea Gangasingh of Thea Makeup Artistry was on hand to provide some top tips and photographer Li Welch of Cay Light displayed his creative talents by

snapping the occasion. Gangasingh said: “I thought the Sip and Shop was a fantastic idea because it was done in a trendy way with upbeat music; patrons could come out, have dinner and drinks and leave with stylish jewellery, bags and more. “It was great exposure for all of the small businesses present and

will definitely boost awareness and let people know where and how to contact us.” The evening was the brainchild of Anya Pratt, owner of Under50handbags, who became interested in promoting fashion when she helped to design her own dress for The Body Show competition last year.

She wanted to put together a fun event where people could learn about fashion in an affordable way. Among the vendors that showcased their crafts were Under50handbags, House of Jerritt, Lux Looks, Thea Makeup Artistry, Cake Couture, Cay Light and The Beauty Bar.

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

The Towers of Babel

Rihanna lost $9 million thanks to accountant’s bad advice: Court filings RIHANNA was “Stupid in Love” — and broke in reality. The singer claims her former accountant recommended dumb decisions that caused her to squander a fortune and left her “effectively bankrupt” by the end of 2009. The Barbadian beauty, who recorded hits like “Stupid in Love” the same year, says in new court papers she had $11 million in cash when 2009 began and just $2 million when it ended. To make matters worse, her expenses doubled during that time, according to the new documents in the Manhattan Federal court lawsuit she filed in 2012 against the number crunchers. The 25-year-old pop star, whose real name is Robyn Fenty, says accountant Peter Gounis of Berdon LLP recommended she purchase a $7.5 million Beverly Hills mansion in 2009 — so she went ahead and bought it. Soon enough, the “Run This Town” crooner was running into serious financial trouble. “Mr. Gounis advised Ms. Fenty that she could afford to purchase [the home] at a time when Ms. Fenty was in financial dismay,” her court

Rihanna says in new court documents that her accountant shouldn’t have told her to buy a $7.5 million mansion and should have told her that her ‘Last Girl on Earth’ tour was a likely money-loser.

documents say. “In 2009, Ms. Fenty was ‘running out of cash’ and Mr. Gounis knew this,” the papers say, quoting a deposition in Rihanna’s federal

breach of contract and negligence lawsuit. “Ms. Fenty’s accounts were so diminished that requested wire transfers would not go through. In fact, Ms. Fenty was effectively bankrupt at the end of 2009.” The mansion turned out to be a bad deal, Rihanna claims. It was filled with mold, leaks and other problems, and she ended up selling it for a $2 million loss, her lawsuit says. “Mr. Gounis was fully apprised of Ms. Fenty’s financial condition, yet, nonetheless, failed to advise her that the purchase would be unwise,” her new court papers say. “In fact, in or around March 2009, defendants advised Ms. Fenty by email that purchasing a home in Los Angeles ‘would be a good investment.’ ” The “Umbrella” singer also says the accountants failed to warn her that her “Last Girl on Earth Tour” that year was likely to lose money. She fired the firm in 2010. “These allegations are false,” Thomas Manisero, a lawyer for Berdon LLP, said Wednesday. “Berdon acted properly concerning Ms. Fenty’s affairs.”

autism awareness By Nicole Cox, a mother living with autism

The lesson! Part two.

JO IS ticking along now and copying the needed information from the chalkboard. Once he has completed this he must raise his hand to tell the teacher he is finished. Now, of course, all sorts of social situations may have happened since he started that assignment: a classmate asks for an eraser or the teacher asks him to correct an incorrectly written or formed item. Maybe the teacher even requests that all the class stop working so that she may further explain a concept or instruction. Little sensory reinforcers (items to fidget with) are kept in his desk for his access to make sure he can stay focused. All the while, I am prompting or redirecting if necessary to remind him of what behaviour will help him complete the task

at hand. If he completes the task at hand, excellent. If not then he will have to revisit it before the day is over. Now, when the teacher is actually teaching the concept…this is where it gets interesting! A very clever dance between the teacher and the aide must be used to ensure that: 1) Josiah is meeting the IEP objective of attending (paying attention) in class. 2) Josiah is actually comprehending the subject matter according to what HIS current comprehension skills allow. 3) He is positively reinforced for participation in this process. The teacher uses visual aids, asks for Josiah’s tactile participation (“Come to the board and find...”) and constant social reinforcement (applause for Jo’s performance from the class or Jo applauding a classmate along with the class) in order to facilitate this. The aide is responsible for

modifying certain aspects of the lesson concept to meet goal two which was mentioned earlier. This may involve adding, changing or deleting certain aspects of his assignment for in class completion. Notes are then taken on where his strengths and deficits lie in the subject and concept drills are created to be added to his academic pull-out schedule. This requires quick and creative thinking on the part of the aide as one must use what one knows about the verbal behaviour model of ABA teaching method used in his pull-out session and modify a standard curriculum to fit the model. Materials must be gathered to do this: photos, flashcards, books, toys, blocks; random items of any kind! So, one must sometimes think quite outside of the box. Altogether, it can be quite challenging mentally and if Jo is having a bad day, physically as well! But there is one more aspect to this that I must add for you to get the full picture. Next week...

“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.weebly.com

My Black Is Beautiful By Phillippa Mayham Hey Negro! Hello there you Noble Efficient Gifted Resilient Outstanding Individual The love I have for you goes beyond the sky that is blue You Are who I am You are who we are And I am Proud of who I am And what we have became Despite the negative stereotypical Descriptions of such a great nation And the folks who still refuse to see the great in us. We are still a strengthened nation Not afraid to persevere Personalities that I find to be so rare A complexion far more beautiful Than any cream or tans can ever repair Hair That kinks and curls in any direction That one can ever imagine And when I say my black is beautiful …. Oh baby believe it is My black is something I would never regret And if you don’t like being black Obviously there is something you lack! Being black is a blessing one can’t deny from our beautiful insides to The outside The curves in our hips The fullness of our lips Our culture that runs so deep The rhythm in our feet Which non can defeat Yet some choose to deny This diverse cultured Beautiful nation With bleached out tones And attitudes that help to stereotype Some even wishing they were white In spite of all we had to fight for…. If you to love this skin That we are in Then who will? We need to redefine Not what is being black is But who we are so that We can appreciate Being who we are And we are Bright Lovable Accomplished Capable Knowledgeable People And my black… My black is strong And some may think this is wrong But my black is indeed beautiful!

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

T Holding Ltd. Is looking for 2

PwC (TCI) Ltd. requires one (1) Qualified

FOR RENT

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

contact: 946-4664

ACA, ACCA, CPA or ACMA For Audit Senior role experience in audit required Salary $50,000-$55,000 per annum Apply to joseph.p.connolly@tc.pwc. com or Telefax: 649-946-4892 no later than February 27th, 2014 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

FOR SALE

9513

laboUrers To work MondaySaturday salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 232-4336

9537

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

February 15 - 21, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

IN THE SUPREME COURT ACTION NUMBER: CL94 /13 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS IN THE MATTER OF SECTION 72, 75 AND 77 OF THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE 1967 (“THE ORDINANCE”) AND: IN THE MATTER OF LEGAL CHARGE OVER 60003/51 NORTH WEST & NORTH CENTRAL PROVIDENCIALES (“THE CHARGED PROPERTY”) REGISTERED AS ENTRY NUMBERS 1 and 2 IN THE INCUMBRANCES SECTION OF THE REGISTER RELATING TO THE CHARGED PROPERTY. BETWEEN:

Plaintiff

the following manner: (i) by leaving a copy at the Charged Property;

A N D:

(ii) by publishing in the Turks and Caicos Islands Gazette;

BARBARA LYNN HARRIS Defendant

(iii) By publishing in the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and Turks and Caicos Sun newspapers.

ORDER Before The Honourable Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale sitting at the Court House, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands on the 20th day of January 2014 upon the application of the Plaintiff

2. That the time for acknowledgement of service of the Originating Summons shall be 28 days. 3. That the Defendant shall pay the costs of the proceedings to be taxed if not agreed.

IT IS ORDERED: 1. That pursuant to the civil Procedure Rules Order 65 Rule 4 that the Plaintiff do have leave to serve the Originating Summons in

SCOTIABANK (TURKS AND CAICOS) LTD

NO. 8 ORIGINATING SUMMONS-GENERAL FORM (O.7, R. 2) IN THE SUPREME COURT OF YEAR 2013 ACTION CL 94/13 THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION BY SCOTIABANK (TURKS AND CAICOS) LTD FOR LEAVE TO SELL CHARGED PROPERTY BY PRIVATE TREATY AND IN THE MATTER OF SECTION 72, 75 & &77 OF THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, 1967 BETWEEN SCOTIABANK (TURKS AND CAICOS) LTD. PLAINTIFF AND BARBARA LYNN HARRIS DEFENDANT To the Defendant: BARBARA LYNN HARRIS Of

Honourable Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale On this 20th day of January 2014

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Court may think just and expedient.

Let the Defendant, within 14 days after service of this summons on her, counting the day of service, return the accompanying Acknowledgment of Service to the Registry.

Dated the11th day of June 2013

By this summons, which is issued on the application of the Plaintiff, Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd, of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands the Plaintiff claims against the Defendant who is the registered proprietor of parcel 60003/51 North West & North Central Providenciales (“the Property”) the following relief, namely:

NOTE: THIS SUMMONS MAY NOT BE SERVED LATER THAN 12 CALENDAR MONTHS AFTER THE ABOVE DATE UNLESS RENEWED BY ORDER OF THE COURT.

1. That the Plaintiff do have leave to sell the Property by private treaty pursuant to a Charge registered in its favour over the Property and pursuant to section 72, 75 & 77 of the Registered Land Ordinance; 2. That the Defendant and any other person occupying the Property do within 30 days of a signed contract with respect to the sale of the Property pursuant to paragraph one above, vacate the property and take all appropriate steps to give the plaintiff vacant possession the Property. 3. That the costs of this Application be provided for; 4. Such further or other relief as may be requisite.

THIS SUMMONS IS FILED BY MISICK & STANBROOK OF RICHMOND HOUSE, PROVIDENCIALES AS ATTORNEYS FOR THE PLAINTIFF, SCOTIABANK (TURKS AND CAICOS) LTD WHOSE ADDRESS FOR SERVICE IS MISICK AND STANBROOK, RICHMOND HOUSE, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.

MISICK & STANBROOK

PLAINTIFF’S ADDRESS: Cherokee Road, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

To: THE DEFENDANT THE REGISTRAR OF THE SUPREME COURT, PROVIDENCIALES IMPORTANT Directions for Acknowledgment of Service are given with the accompanying form.

If the Defendant does not acknowledge service, such judgment may be given or order made against or in relation to her as the

Acknowledgment of Service of Originating Summons In the Supreme Court of [Year]2013 No. CL 94 /13 the Turks and Caicos Islands

Defendant’s (Defendant’s attorney’s) details Address to which papers about this case should be sent

BETWEEN: SCOTIABANK (TURKS AND CAICOS) LTD. Plaintiff

Attorney=s ref

Telephone No.

Fax No.

When completed this form should be returned to: The Registrar

Supreme Court Court House Pond Street Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands

And BARBARA LYNN HARRIS Defendant Part 1 (Your) (Defendant’s)full name 1. BARBARA LYNN HARRIS Part 2 (Do you) (Does the defendant) intend the whole of the plaintiff’s claim? _ to contest part of the plaintiff’s claim? _ none of the plaintiff’s claim? _ Part 3 I acknowledge that (I have) (the defendant has) been served with a copy of the originating summons Signed _____________________________ Date______________________ Defendant (Attorney for the defendant) (Authorised officer)

Plaintiff’s (Plaintiff’s attorney’s) details Address to which papers about this case should be sent Misick & Stanbrook P.O. Box 127 Richmond House Leeward Highway Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

Attorney’s ref

TRSH/ BNSH14913

Tel. No.

(649) 9464732

Fax No.

(649) 946-4734

32 CLASSIFIEDS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SHEDELINE FABRE

Brama Kumaris

Is looking for a

VACANCIES The Sands is now accepting applications/resume for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:

SALES AND MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre

LIVE-IN NANNY

Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

Salary $5.50 per hour contact: 3421465 or 343-4919 THIS IS NOT FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL 9489

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com

POSITION AVAILABLE

Requirements • Candidate should have in excess of 10 years of experience in pre-construction selling of large value projects. • Strong preference for international sales experience and established relationships with foreign marketing agencies • Proven sales history performance in excess of $20 million annually • Predominantly commission based remuneration • Strong understanding of preconstruction documentation and contracts • Strong understanding and comprehension of owner legal documents, agreements, and financial calculations • Responsible for solving all accounting inquiries as requested by potential owners • Good working knowledge and excellent navigation in Word, Excel, PowerPoint required • Experience with website, and other social media site development and maintenance • Ability to instill a highly consistent satisfaction rate for all potential owners • Achieve high levels of quality product, customer service and guest satisfaction for resort potential owners • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace • Requires highly effective and high-end sales driven communication skills, both verbal and written • Must possess excellent computational ability (word, excel, outlook)

16TH MAY, 2014

Spa Therapist

With over 5 years experience in all types of Massages and facials plus other skin/body care services as well as some experience in Manicure/Pedicure. Applicants experience must include working in the Tourist Sector. Wages $300 per week plus commission scheme. The successful applicant must be a team player and highly motivated to excel. For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes and references required. Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 26th February, 2014.

9499

POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT Responsibilities • Smiles and greets all guests and assist with towels, umbrellas, questions, and/or water sports equipment. • Complete setting up and breaking down of all guest lounge areas as designated by management and to ensure that all pool chairs and tables are in a clean and orderly fashion. • Consistent and regular inspection, cleaning, tidying, pick-up and walk-through of pool area and beach area to ensure high cleanliness standards (no trash on the grounds) are maintained. Inspect entire pool area replacing any missing items and/or repairing (when possible) any items needing attention. (I.E. Umbrellas, Hobie Cat, Chairs, etc.) • Pool & Hot Tub Cleaning (I.E. vacuuming, filtering, scrubbing, sifting, chemical administering and testing, checking skimmers, etc.)

The Turks and Caicos Islands Sailing Association is looking for a professional, enthusiastic, and energetic

Director

to help us promote sailing in the Turks and Caicos Islands and to help run our National Sailing Center.

Requirements • A secondary diploma is an asset • Experience as a Pool & Beach Attendant is preferred • Must be able to work long hours in all weather conditions • Must be able to be CPR certified, First Aid certified, and AED certified • Must be a good swimmer and perform rescue when needed • Must be able to operate rescue boat • Must be experienced in sailing, kayaking, and wind-surfing and operate all equipment • Must be able to clean, vacuum, skim and chlorinate pool – requires getting into the pool in most cases • Must handle pool chemicals and equipment maintenance and functions • Life Guard experience a plus • Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) (English) used in the workplace. • Must work weekends and holidays, morning and evenings flex shifts • Must be able to lift heavy objects of 30+ or more

The Director will work with our skilled volunteers and Exec Committee to meet and exceed the following goals: - Administer and coach our Learn to Sail, Learn to Race and Advanced Racing Juniors. We currently cater to more than 100 athletes from over 6 schools. - Continue to reach across the archipelago in introducing the sport of sailing to all interested TCI residents. - Help our racing programs succeed through exceptional coaching and strong leadership. - Communicate positively and effectively with parents, students, volunteers and the Exec Committee. - Administer registration materials and payments for various programs. Manage the data base, website and fund-raising efforts. Our ideal candidate will have (or be willing to quickly attain) the following skills: - US Sailing or RYA Instructor Trainer. - Safe powerboat training. - Current CPR and First Aid certifications. - Computer proficiency. - Race coaching experience. - Community sailing experience. - Minor boat repair and maintenance. - Excellent communication skills. - Fundraising experience. - Regatta or event planning. - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience.

LINE POSITIONS LABOURER ROOM ATTENDANT GROUNDSKEEPER MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN For the following positions resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work flexible schedules, holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Minimum experience in the areas of interest required.

Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@ thesandstc.com, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Deadline is February 21, 2014.

9491

Please contact the TCISA Manager @ solmarine@tciway.tc to apply.

February 15 - 21, 2014

Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:

Is looking for a Part-time

delivery driver

3 laboUrers

With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

Must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 231-3788

Is looking for a

is currently seeking a

Paint Specialist

labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-1006 MANGOS BAR AND RESTAURANT Is looking for a

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

contact: 246-6237

ENVIROTECH

9487

Must have the following: Minimum of 8 years experience in manufacturing paints/building materials Must be able to carry out research and development on formulas for specific requirements To produce existing formulas and carry out Quality Control Procedures Application for deadline: February 24th, 2014.

Please forward resume to: envirotechgroupinc@ gmail.com or telephone: 649-232-1050 9492

For Sam and Camille Slattery. Interested persons submit their application via email iimsadmin@tciway.tc .

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

contact: 231-3875

Is looking to employ a

HAIRTASTIC Is looking for a

9490

L & S CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Tennis Professional Job requirements: • Level 2 International Tennis federation approved • Hold a physical trainer degree • Minimum 7 years experience as a Junior and Professional Tennis Player • Certified for junior training • USTA Player 7.0 Salary commensurate with qualifications

Contact: 649-442-6348 or email: info@gracewaysports.com 9498

Hairdresser

LaboUrer

to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

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

contact: 332-4338

contact: 241-7557

9493

9501

TCIRFU

Is now ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR A

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

contact: 2311000 or 333-1000

9497

THE PINNACLE Is looking for a

MALE RUGBY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER TEACHER

• TCIRFU is seeking a Competent Sports Minded Development Teacher for the TCIRFU to assist with a variety of tasks related to the field of Rugby. • Successful Incumbent should have 15 years of Rugby experience

Qualifications:

Holds a University Degree Holds a level 1 or 2 Certificate with IRB (International Rugby Board)

Job includes:

• Coordinating, Delivering and Promoting Rugby within the different Islands • Offering coaching and supervision when appropriate • Working with Government bodies in relation to clubs and events • Working in partnership with school initiatives such as “active school” to encourage participation in Rugby and organize parental involvement • Maintaining records and produce reports

Labourers Gardeners

Maintenance Supervisor

Contact: 941-7366

contact: 941-7366

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour experience required. 9496

contact: 946-4664

Worker

laboUrer

GRACEWAY SPORTS CENTRE

Is seeking highly trained professional, experienced

Is looking to fill the following positions:

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

Is looking for a

PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY

THE PINNACLE

FOR RENT

contact: 9465759 or 241-5922 9494

Domestic

CATCH THE WAVE

9488

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

FLOWER GIRL

EDNA STERLING

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

9495

Salary will be $1500.00 per month Please forward resumes in confidence to

Human Resources Manager, TCIRFU Level 2, Le Vele Plaza, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Fax: (649) 941-3223 9500

34 CLASSIFIEDS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty

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

Seeking Real Estate Sales Associate Responsibilities Include • Assist clients in the sale, purchase, letting or leasing of real estate • Introducing new clients and promoting real estate sales and new listings • Promptly notifying the Employer of the particulars of any new listing secured by the Employee, and of any potential listing or potential buyer coming to his/ her attention • Performing such administrative functions as the Manager or acting Manager for the time being of the Employer (“the Manager”) may from time to time assign to the Employee • Participating in such meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, events and functions connected with real estate • Assisting in the preparation and publication or promotional material and media • Fostering good relations with companies in the real estate business and their employees and agents • Participate as a practicing member of the Turks & Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) • Keeping proper and organized records of activities and of the properties with which you are associated with • Sales and listing reports • Required to work after hours and weekends as necessary Applicant Requirements • A minimum of 7 years in Real Estate Sales • Business Degree from a recognized University • Sales Training Courses • Multi Language Skills an asset • Microsoft Computer application knowledge Commission Based Remuneration – Application Closing Date – February 25th, 2014. Please submit CV to: Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, P.O. BOX 279, Venture House, Providenciales, Telephone: 649-946-4474 or Fax: 649-946-4433

9533

PRICED 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, (242) 676-3592

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

HOUSEMAN Required for inside and outside cleaning. Duties: some heavy lifting Hours will vary depending on occupancy levels evening and weekend shifts will be part of the schedule applicants must be able to speak, read and write English to a level that will enable communication with guests police clearance required for all applicants salary $6.00 per hour.

Email to alliedmanagement@ usa.net or 946-5866 9536

Acting on behalf of our clients Michael N. Rigby, Carol Skippings and Berrister Etienne is looking to fill the following positions

A NURSE Is required for several managed properties

Qualifications:

• Required for property management company • Must have completed a degree course in Nursing and hold an internationally recognized registration • Fluent English written and spoken

Duties:

• To give additional support services to elderly guests and disable and sometimes act as a babysitter • Irregular hours including night work and weekends • To assist housekeeping team when not performing nursing duties Salary $800.00 per month plus share of nursing fees

Send resumes to alliedmanagement@usa.net or to Labor Department

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

9535

Carpenter Labourers Must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-5922

9538

Priton Development Ltd seeks

2 Masons 2 Carpenter 1 LaboUrer Must have at least 3 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Salary start at $6.00 per hour and is based on experience. Deadline for application is February 10th 2014

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

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ALLIED MANAGEMENT SERVICES LTD.

9435

Interested persons should send application via fax to 649-941-4034 c/o Alliance Realty Ltd.

9515

February 15 - 21, 2014

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 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GORDON’S SUPPLY

LABOURER Salary commensurate with qualification. Resumes can be faxed to 649-941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible

LUCIENNE N. ROBINSON

MACKEY’S CAFÉ Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Fishermen Labourer waitress Salary To work 5 days To work 6 days

per week salary $5.50 per hour. 9534

PORTER EWING

contact: 343-9101

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 941-3640 PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF GOD INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENTS

PROVO AUTO SUPPLY LTD. is currently looking to employ a

Is looking for a

Labourer

Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance of the building, stocking of shelves and any other duty that may be assigned to you This individual must possess the following: • Adequate tools to perform his duties • Must be able to work with little or no supervision • Must be computer literate • Must be able to work weekends • Must possess a valid driver’s license

Missionary Salary $7.00 per hour

Please submit all application between 9am-5pm Monday-Friday Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

9506

contact: 244-3462

9502

negotiable

WARD CONSULTANCY acting on behalf of our clients: Brid & Benjamin, Coyaba Restaurant, Complete Construction and Faces and Fingers is looking to fill the following positions:

2 Labourers 1 Waiter 1 Domestic Worker 1 Painter 1 Aesthetician Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary starting from $6-$8 per hour.

contact: 341-2914

contact: 345-7512

LA VISTA AZUL CONDOMINIUM L V A MANAGEMENT LTD.

THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH OF GOD INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENT

Seeking to employ a

labourer • Must have at least 2 years experience in working in a resort • Must be able to communicate in English • Must be ready to work 6 days per week and on request Duties will include: • Assistance in property management Salary $6.00 per hour

107 Turtle Cove Dr., Turtle Cove, Providenciales 9510

9540

Is looking for a

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

contact: 245-7557

9527

PARADISE LTD.

Assistant Scooter Store Manager

Requirements:

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:

• Must hold a current motorcycle license and be familiar with basic scooter operation and maintenance • Must have 5 years experience in retail management, proven sales track record and proof thereof • Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Marketing is desired, financial background with extensive knowledge of finance and accounting is required • Must demonstrate computer proficiency and in-depth knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, Adobe and Microsoft Word • Must be organized detail oriented team player with excellent communication skills • Excellent command of English language required • Must be available to work early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays • Clean police record required Salary $7.00 per hour

GARDENER

• 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

COMMON AREA ATTENDANT

Scooter Store Clerk

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

Requirements:

• Must hold currents motorcycle license, basic scooter operation and maintenance required • Must have 5 years experience in a retail/accounting/clerical position and proof thereof • Bachelor’s Degree in business or marketing preferred • Must demonstrate computer proficiency and in-depth knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, Adobe and Microsoft Word • Must be available to work early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays • Must be organized detail oriented team player with excellent communication skills • Full command of the English language required and secondary language of Spanish preferred • Clean police record required Salary $5.00 per hour Belongers need only apply

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:

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

9451

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

Applicants please apply to: paradise.provo@gmail.com Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview

9530

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

VACANCIES

CLASSIFIEDS 37

R. A. SHAW DESIGN LTD.

Architectural Draftsman/ Revit Operator Required

R & R Motor Sales & Rentals is seeking employment for the following:

1) Machanic

Starting Salary is negotiable. Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@ gmail.com for further details regarding employment.

RA Shaw Designers Ltd. is in need of a senior draftsperson with experience in Architectural detailing imperative that interested individuals must be proficient in Autodesk Revit Software.

Estel Plumbing is seeking employment for the following:

1) Plumber

• Successful applicant will possess a comprehensive understanding of building science and architectural design, with good communication skills and team attitude, and with a minimum 5 years experience in the industry in addition must have: • Minimum 5-10 years drafting and design experience • Revit Architectural 2014 & Autodesk 2015 Building Design Suite • Strong knowledge in residential construction and Architectural Technology • Responsible for creating and maintaining AutoCad/ Revit standards, procedures, and details and will manage the detail library and drawing archives • autoCad Certified Associate • ability to meet project budgets and schedules • sketchUp Salary commensurate with experience.

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com further details regarding employment LEXA SOUNDS is seeking employment for the following:

2) Musician

Interested candidate may contact 441-3030 for further details regarding employment. Barry Fashion Shop is seeking employment for the following:

1) Sale Person

Interested candidate may contact 343-2559 for further details regarding employment. Ivanelle Jeannette Francois is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Interested individuals can contact: 941-4394 ext 102

Interested candidate may contact 341-1590 for further details regarding employment.

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

9526

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

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

OCEAN CLUB RESORTS IS LOOKING FOR QUALIFIED, EXPERIENCED APPLICANTS

FOR THE POSITIONS OF:

HOUSEMAN

Responsibilities:

GARDENER

Responsible for assisting the Operations Department with cleaning in all areas of the resort. May be asked to assist in other departments as business demands. Strenuous physical labour requires one who is able and willing to perform heavy lifting, and other physically demanding functions.

JANITOR

COMMON AREA ATTENDANT

Responsible for assisting the Operations Department with cleaning in all areas of the resort. May be asked to assist in other departments as business demands. Must be physically capable of hard manual outdoor labour. Previous experience in a resort setting required.

Responsibilities:

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

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

Please drop off resumes at the Ocean Club Front Desk to the attention of the

Human Resource Manager, or via email to diane@oceanclubresorts.tc Preference will be given to experienced and qualified Belongers.

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

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

Only those receiving an interview will be contacted. 9528

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

9451

February 15 - 21, 2014

38 CLASSIFIEDS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Assistant Mechanic/ Public Service Area Supervisor • Responsible for supervision and monitoring of the instrument testing, installation, calibration and commissioning of process control instruments for all scooters and vehicles • Prepare reports and certifications after the completion of jobs. • Ensure quality work and monitor work progress of staff • Commissioning of turbine monitoring instruments such as speed sensors vibration, sensors, and shaft expansion of scooters • Testing, calibration, and commissioning of switches, gauges, transmitters, analyzers and pneumatic control valves of scooters • Responsible for handling multiple site portfolios and for all operational activities, emergency response, safety, collection, regulatory compliance, re-development, customer interaction, and development.

Please contact email sandrews@caicoswheels.com or (649)946-8302

Duties & Responsibilities: Oversee the safety of the crew, vessel and catch - Responsible for the service and maintenance of the engines aboard the vessel, including any attached lifeboats -Checking and recording the catch for each crew member, including self, catch from traps and ensuring both tallies with total overall catch -Deep-sea line fishing with reel -Assist the trap man to set and pull traps -Gut, ice and store fish, in common with the crew, including the captain/engineer Requirements: -Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer - Ability to lead a team -Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel Salary: Stipend plus based on catch shared with crew

Six (6) Crew/Fishermen Duties & Responsibilities: -Prepare and maintain traps -Prepare bait for traps -Deep-sea line fishing with reel -Cleaning, icing and storing of catch -Responsible for cleaning and maintaining the vessel Requirements: -Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer -Ability to work with minimal supervision -Minimum of two (2) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel Salary: Based on catch Only Belongers need apply. Applicants must be able to stay out at sea for a period of 14 to 25 days at any given time. Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Application deadline: March 8th,2014

Is seeking an

is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Contact: 241-5125

7K PROPANE CUMMINS BACKUP GENERATOR FOR SALE

$7,500

ON PROPERTY LABOURER Accommodation and

Utilities Included salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 232-1473

9446

9525

ISLAND SPORTIQUE Is seeking a

NANNY/ HOUSEKEEPER

LAST ONE IN STOCK PRICE INCLUDES 99 GALLON TANK AND TRANSFER SWITCH

Able to perform all Nanny chores as well as cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, and cleaning laundry. Salary $5.50 per hour, Monday - Saturday

CALL TC GAS LTD. 339-3585. EMAIL: tcgasltd@gmail.com

Contact: 232-4188

9529

One (1) Captain/Engineer for Commercial Fishing Vessel

ANGELA WILLIAMS

ALBERT SMITH

9531

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

contact: 946-5378 9457

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANT Rubis Turks & Caicos Limited, a company specializing in the marketing of petroleum products, is seeking to fill the vacant position of Assistant Accountant in its Finance Department.

The Portfolio

The responsibilities for the position include: • Responsible for maintenance of accounts receivables & sub-ledgers • Processing accounting entries in the accounting system • Customer reconciliations & queries • Bank Deposit Reconciliations • Contract management • General ledger accounts reconciliations • Provides financial assistance to the business unit as needed • Works jointly with business unit to maintain awareness of internal controls and accounting regulations • Works with internal and external auditors in responding to audit questions, when applicable Requirements • Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting • Must have a comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles • Experience in a similar position • Proficiency in Microsoft Office products • Strong analytical skills • Results oriented

Resumes should be submitted by e-mail on or before Friday, February 28, 2014 employment@rubis-caribbean.com. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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:

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. 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 Monday the 24th day of February, 2014 A reserve price will be fixed on the Property. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited (649) 9417430.

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

1. Parcel 10401\372 Breezy Brea, Grand Turk.

This is an Ocean Front property located at the unmade northern section of Breezy Brea in a residential community of Grand Turk. The property consist of a one and a half storey residence where the upper floor comprises of the main living area, four bedrooms and two bathrooms, together with an open deck. The lower floor provides two separate one bedroom apartments and a covered deck.

2. Parcel 10303\09 Central, Grand Turk.

The property is located in the Central section of the Island in a residential area of Grand Turk. This property consists of a residential corner lot of 0.60 acres surrounding a single-storey building which comprises of two bedrooms, one bathroom and a kitchen/ living/dining area.

3. Parcel 60003\14 North West and North Central, Providenciales.

This property forms part of Phase One of the Priton Home affordable housing scheme and consist of three bed rooms, two bathrooms, one kitchen/dining room, one living room, and a utility. Additional improvements include an open front porch. The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 28th day of February 2014. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Department (649) 339-7100.

CLASSIFIEDS 39

Graceway Gourmet is seeking a suitably qualified applicant to fill the position of:

Exceutive Chef

Summary:

The Executive Chef will manage a select team in achieving the highest standards of food production; while developing an appetizing menu of recipes, using quality food products. Maintaining esteem, level of food preparation and sanitation methods in accordance with local government health regulations and established company procedures.

Main duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee day to day management of a select team and their culinary activities • Manages food consumption, requisition and purchase food items as required • Responsibility includes standardizing production recipes to ensure consistent quality. Establish presentation techniques, plan and price menus • Oversee and ensure proper equipment operation / maintenance • Responsible to maintain a proper and safe working environment at all times • Oversee and assist with special event catering services as required • Responsible for merchandising, signage, product pricing, dating, and ordering of food products • Evaluates food products to assure that quality standards are consistently attained • Establishes controls to minimize food and supply waste • Schedules and coordinates the work of chefs, and or cooks to assure that food preparation is economical and technically correct and within budgeted labor cost goals • Must be able to prepare recipes for the Graceway Gourmet web site as required

Required Qualification and Experiences

• The ability to manage in a diverse environment with focus on clients and customer service is essential to success in this role • Previous experience with controlling food and labor cost, demonstration cooking, menu pricing and development of culinary team preferred • Premise and liability accountability with contract-managed service experience is desirable • Must be able to properly discuss all products, communicate with customers, conduct cooking classes, prepare recipes for the Graceway Gourmet web site as required • The ideal candidates for this post will posses a bachelor’s degree or at least 5 years related culinary management experience as a Sous Head Chef in a high quality, busy restaurant and / or 5 star Hotel / Resort • Previous experience in preparing high quality Deli Food in a Harrods, Dean & Deluca, Seffridges type of environment is an added plus • Strong leadership, management, and planning capability are core requirements for this post • Must be able to work a flexible schedule based on food service and catering needs which may include working nights, weekends and holidays. Salary rate will be based on qualification and experience.

If you possess all of the above, please send a resume and cover letter to:

Submit to: hr@gracewayiga.com Deadline for application: February 24th 2014 Please Note: Only short-listed applicants will be contacted to attend interviews 9532

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

40 CLASSIFIEDS

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Temporary English A/B Teacher

Parcel 61103/97, Long Bay Hills, Providenciales. The property comprises of:

Education Department, Ministry of Education South Caicos-Marjorie Basden High KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

a. A one and a half storey residence has been constructed to the central area of the site comprising of four bedrooms (all en-suite), four bedrooms, open plan living room, dining area, kitchen, office, pool room and rear deck, swimming pool and gazebos. There is also a parking area and car port. b. In addition, to the western corner of the lot has been constructed a block of 2# two bedroom, two bathroom town homes with a separate parking area. c. The residence was constructed in 2006. Registered Proprietors: Ezekiel Ebenezer Hall and Arlene Ernestine Hall 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 21st day of February, 2014 A reserve price will be fixed on the Property. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited (649) 941-7430.

9508

JOB OPPORTUNITY

• Prepare and deliver lessons to a range of classes • Mark work, giving appropriate feedback and maintaining records of students' progress and development • Research new topic areas, maintain up-to-date subject knowledge and then devise and write new curriculum materials • Select and use a range of different learning resources and equipment, including LCD projectors, podcasts and interactive whiteboards where available • Undertake pastoral duties, such as taking on the role of form teacher, and supporting students on an individual basis through academic or personal difficulties • Prepare students for external examinations • Manage student behaviour in the classroom and on school premises, and apply appropriate and effective measures in cases of misbehavior • Supervise and support the work of newly qualified teachers • Participate in and organise extracurricular activities, such as formal dinners, social activities, fundraising events and sporting events • Participate in staff meetings, departmental meetings, PTA meetings, parents' evenings and whole school staff development seminars/workshops • Liaise with other professionals, such as careers advisers, guidance counsellors, educational psychologists and social welfare officers • Help guide students in their selection of career choices • Undergo regular observations and participate in regular in-service training (INSET) as part of continuing professional development (CPD) • Teach the secondary curriculum, in Forms 1 to 5 appropriate to the age and learning needs of the children • Adhere to all Public Service codes, rules and regulations

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant academic discipline AND • A teacher's certificate or diploma (Note: The certificate or diploma may be encompassed in the degree). • A master's degree in a relevant specialisation is desirable.

Thai Cook

EXPERIENCE

Requirements:

• 5+ years experience with, and are comfortable preparing a variety of different cuisines in a fine dining environment • 3 yrs specializing in Thai cooking, experience in cooking in Thailand a plus • Good Knowledge of all Thai spices & curry’s and all levels of Asian Fruits & Vegetables. • Understanding the importance of consistency • Dependable , proactive, organized team player • At least two years cooking experience; preparing international breakfast, lunch and dinner in regional cooking environment • Must be willing to work all days and shifts • Ability to plan, organize, and execute meal plans

Duties include (not all-inclusive)

• Train and assist all non-Thai Cooks in peroration of Thai cusine • Prepare all food items according to recipes and correct handling procedures • Maintain highest quality and appearance of all foods. All plates to be clean and appetizing. • Maintain all work areas in a orderly and clean fashion Salary $7.25 commensurate with experience, education & training. Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Qualified persons can contact: Veronica CLARE Human Resources Manager , Grace Bay P: 1.649.946.5050 | veronica.clare@gracebayclub.com

VACANCY

• The position requires a minimum of one (2) years teaching practice experience in a classroom setting at the secondary school level during the course of the teacher training to respond effectively to the challenges of the job.

RENUMERATION PACKAGE:

Salary Range: $27,840 - $31,020.00 Material Allowance: $1,200.00

Application Submission Guidelines

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), certified copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. Current serving officers must apply through their Heads of Department. Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk and submitted by Facsimile: 649-946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: English A/B Teacher Application. Envelopes should have the subject: English A/B Teacher Application marked on the front. Deadline: February 12th, 2014

APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT THE SUBMISSION OF ALL REQUESTED DOCUMENTS ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED

9507

9504

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PwC (TCI) LTD.

The Meridian Club On Pine Cay

CLASSIFIEDS 41 requires one (1)

CLIENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: info@meridianclub.com Email: manager@meridianclub.com Ph:649-941-7011 Fax: 649-941-7010

Position Available Housekeeper at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay

• Applicants are required to have a degree in accounting or equivalent qualifications • The role will involve performing administrative and accounting duties for the firm and its clients. The role is non-development and PwC will not provide any support or assistance with professional accounting examinations to persons applying for this role • Salary $25,000-$30,000 per annum

Apply to: chynna.clare@tc.pwc.com or Telefax: 649-946-4892 no later than March 6th, 2014, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands 9512

Salary: $5.50/hr +. depending upon training, experience, work record and capability. Room, board and necessary boat transportation to and from Pine Cay included. Duties: include cleaning guest rooms and public areas; laundry; cleaning private residences, and such

Qualifications Required: - - - - - -

Must be able to communicate in English Must be in good health and able to lift bundles of up to 30#. Must be skilled in handling all duties specified above. Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay. Must be willing to work holidays and weekends. Must be neat, tidy, have attention for detail

POSITION AVAILABLE

Starting Date: May 2014

SPA - SKINCARE TECHNICIAN & MASSAGE THERAPIST

Contact Person and Contact Information: Beverly Plachta, Resort Manager. Please fax resume and 3 references with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) to 649-941-7010 or email manager@meridianclub.com .

Additional Information: Qualified Belongers preferred. All qualified applicants will be interviewed.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

WINKY’S CATERING Is looking for a

The largest readership in the Turks & Caicos

Bryant’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration/Bryant Cox Is seeking employment for:

4 A/c Technicians Must have Knowledge of Mitsubishi A/c equipment (VRF systems, City Multi systems) & Air cool & water cool chiller systems. Capable of repairing minor & major brands of equipment.

2 Domestic Worker & 2 Labourers

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

contact: 343-7577

9516

THE TURTLE COVE HOTEL & RESIDENCE Is looking for a

;;Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience. ;;Must be able to understand, speak & write English. All Applicants Must have a valid driver’s license. Salary based on experience.

1 Maintenance Helper Able to do general repairs (Masonry, plumbing, painting, and electrical wiring etc.

Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview 9511

Gardener

to keep the hotel grounds clean must be able to work weekends and holidays salary $5.00 per hour Only Belonger need apply contact: Cecelia Rigby at 946-4203 9514

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

SkintinuousCare is seeking to employ a certified spa & skincare technician/ massage therapist. The spa offers an array of treatments, such as: Permanent hair reduction (IPL) Fast waxing, including Brazilian waxing, using hard & soft wax Photo-rejouvenation with E-Light Chemical peels Organic facials Ultrasonic facials Oxygen facials Micro-dermabrasion Skin analysis Lash & brow tinting Lash extensions Manicure & pedicure Wedding & special occasion make-up applications Body treatments Swedish massage Hot stone massage Shiatsu And more…

Job Requirements:

;; Candidate must have a current aesthetician (Cidesco Certification) and/or cosmetology license (Cidesco Certification is a plus), manicure license and massage certificate (CMT Certification). ;; Candidate must have at least 10 years experience in the industry. ;; Candidate must posses a thorough knowledge of cosmetics, skincare products and related application procedures in order to boost retail sales of products. ;; Candidate must be able to perform all of the above listed treatments. ;; Candidate must be able to perform cosmetic consultations and educate clients on skin care products as well as provide customized treatment plans and skincare regiments. ;; Candidate must be able to forge new client relationships and ensure client retention through excellence. ;; Candidate must be able to stand on his/her feet and/or sit for a prolonged period of time and must be prepared to work irregular hours (including evenings), holidays and weekends. ;; Candidate must have means of transportation at all times. ;; Candidate must regularly attend educational training seminars in order to stay up-todate on new products, equipment and treatments. ;; Candidate must have excellent organizational skills and posses excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, Spanish and French.

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY Job applications, resumes, references and copies of certificates should be emailed to info@kl-consultants.tc before February 28th, 2013.

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

IOC reinstates India at Sochi after ban

The Meridian Club On Pine Cay

Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies

Positions Available at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay: Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison Note: The Meridian Club operations include a hotel and home rental operation, along with restaurant, bar, guest excursion, marine, maintenance, gardening, commissary, K-9 security and housekeeping services. We handle all reservations and some marketing services in-house. Given our size and limited housing capacity, we cannot afford to have management personnel for each area of operations, so this is a unique position requiring multiple skills and obligations. Hours in this position are those necessary for proper operation of the resort and island 7 days per week throughout season. This employee must be available at all hours for emergency response and therefore must reside full time on-island. Duties of Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison: Day to day management of the resort, including, but not limited to, the hotel, cottages in the rental pool, restaurant, gift shop and commissary; oversee all operations incidental thereto, including, but not limited to, reservations, marketing, guest services and staff performance in resort operations; Coordinate and oversee administration of homeowner maintenance and marine services in conjunction with Assistant Island Manager and report to homeowners on status of their projects. Assume primary responsibility for guest, homeowner and staff transfers to and from Pine Cay; Ensure and coordinate staff training, develop on-going training program for all levels of resort service staff, including reception, reservations, housekeeping, bar and wait staff; Conduct staff performance reviews, as necessary, for such staff members; Coordinate security needs for resort with Head of Security Department; Respond, as necessary, to security issues and health emergencies involving guests, homeowners, staff and other persons on island; Provide first aid procedures when necessary and coordinate evacuation of injured or ill persons requiring greater medical care to Provo; Arrange special functions for guests and homeowners; Dine with guests on a regular basis and monitor guest and homeowner satisfaction with food service and quality; Monitor and ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness on island, including, without limitation, in and about the hotel, restaurant, commissary, staff quarters, staff kitchen and staff recreation center. Assist in management of the hiring process to bring in qualified candidates as positions become available; Ensure proper conduct of resort staff and their compliance with the Employment Manual; Ensure compliance with all applicable TCI laws regarding employment of resort staff, and resort operations; Conduct or help coordinate staff meetings to discuss important issues involving staff; Conduct and/or participate in staff disciplinary proceedings as needed; Help with the supervision of all aspects of resort administration, including accounting; Assist in preparation of annual budgets for Resort operations and perform such other functions as may be necessary to ensure proper operation of the island and resort. Report as requested or necessary, on resort operations and homeowner services to the Board. Qualifications Required for Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison: - Minimum of 4 year bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university or equivalent hospitality industry experience of not less than 10 years in 5-star properties. - Minimum of 5 to 10 years experience as general manager of 4-5 star resort. - Must have experience in home rentals and managing homeowner requests and expectations. - Must be skilled in handling all duties specified above. - Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis, 24 hrs/day.

- Must have at least 5 years experience in resort marketing operations. - Must have at least 5 years experience in managing resort reservation operations. - Must have at least 5 years experience in preparing resort operational budgets. - Computer literate in Quickbooks, Excel and Word. - Must have training in first aid and emergency resuscitation techniques. - Must be willing to work evenings when necessary and remain available for emergencies at all times. - Private island work experience desirable due to isolation factor. - Must be willing to take K-9 training courses. Salary: Commensurate with education, training, experience, work record and capability. Minimum salary $38,000/yr.

Island Engineer - Pine Cay Duties of Island Engineer: The Island Engineer is responsible for working in coordination with the Assistant Island Manager in supporting and supervising all aspects of island maintenance and infrastructure projects, including, but not limited to, managing the maintenance of the island, resort, homeowner properties, restaurant, gift shop, commissary and island security and marine operations. Responsible for all physical plant operations, including electrical, HVAC and refrigeration systems, generator backup systems, plumbing, waste management, fire suppression systems, vehicle maintenance, masonry and construction projects. In coordination with the Assistant Island Manager, assist in the management and evaluation of island infrastructure projects as directed by Board. Ensure and coordinate maintenance staff training, develop ongoing training program for all levels of maintenance staff positions, including safety training. Monitor and ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness on island, including, without limitation, in and about the hotel, restaurant, commissary, staff quarters, staff kitchen and staff recreation center. In conjunction with the Assistant Island Manager, report as necessary, on resort maintenance operations to the Board. Desired Skill set: Training and experience in performing, scheduling and supervising carpentry, plumbing, painting, masonry, electrical, flooring, HVAC and refrigeration systems, sheet metal work, roofing, fire suppression systems, rebuilding pumps and motors, servicing kitchen and laundry equipment, diesel generators, water and sewage treatment plants, vehicle and heavy equipment repairs and maintenance, compressed air systems. Qualifications Required for Island Engineer: - Hands-on multi-tasker with minimum of 15 years in performing and/ or supervising hospitality and restaurant facilities operations and maintenance with skill sets listed above. - Must have at least 10 years experience in construction project management and working with subcontractors. - Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis, 24 hrs/day. - Must have first aid and emergency resuscitation training. - Must be willing to work evenings as necessary and remain available for emergencies at all times. - Experience working on private island desirable. Salary: Commensurate with education, training, experience, work record and capability. Minimum salary $40,000/yr. Starting Date for Both Positions: Upon acceptance.

Contact Person and Contact Information: Jahmal Misick at Misick & Stanbrook. Please send: 1. Resume + copy of passport with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) 2. Several references with contact information and a statement of how you know each person named, by e-mail to jahmal@misickstanbrook.tc or deliver to the attention of Jahmal Misick at Misick & Stanbrook, Richmond House, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands 3. Please respond no later than March 14, 2014 Additional Information: All qualified applicants will be interviewed. 9341

THE International Olympic Committee has reinstated India, allowing its athletes to once again compete under their country’s flag after a ban of more than a year. The reinstatement raises to 89 the number of countries and territories participating in the Sochi Games. “It is the first time in Olympic history that a suspension of an NOC (National Olympic Committee) has been lifted during an Olympic Games,” the IOC said in a statement Tuesday. The decision means that Indian athletes can now compete for India’s Olympic committee and walk behind their national flag at the closing ceremony of the Winter Games in Sochi on 23 February, the statement said. At the opening ceremony last week, India’s delegation of three athletes had marched under an IOC flag. India was suspended from the Olympic fold in December 2012 after the Indian Olympic Association elected Lalit Bhanot, who spent 11 months in jail on corruption charges, to a top post. The situation remained deadlocked for months, as the Indian association refused to bow to the IOC’s demands for changes. But the IOC said Tuesday that it had ended the suspension following the Indian association’s general assembly and elections for a new board on Sunday. An IOC delegation that observed the elections reported that they complied with the requirement that “no person convicted or chargeframed can run for a position within the organization.” Narayna Ramachandran, the president of the World Squash Federation, was voted in as the new president of the Indian association. “To symbolically mark the lifting of the suspension and in recognition of the three Indian athletes competing in Sochi, the Indian flag will be raised in the Olympic Village,” the IOC said Tuesday. India responded positively to the announcement. “I am happy that suspension is over and now Indian teams and players will take part in the International events under the national flag,” said Vijay Kumar Malhotra, the former acting president of Indian Olympic Association. (CNN)

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Josh for Sports

A TCI international legend speaks out THIS particular column represents the most controversial that I’ve written in the past eight years. I would be remiss in the execution of my duty as a national sports ambassador if I were to not address the stagnant state and lack of vision of all of our governments as it relates to their non-appreciation of the importance of vibrant, aggressive and proactive benefits that sports can bring to a country. MY CLAIM TO FAME I am not intimidated by partisan politicians. First and foremost of all, I am a native Turks and Caicos Islander, emanating from the shores of Africa some 300 years ago as a slave’s direct descendant and thus fear not what anybody might say or think about my take on sporting interest of national importance. FOR THE RECORD I consider myself as a qualified spokesman as it relates to sports in this country (anyone who wishes to ascertain my claim,

By Joshua Gardiner

may make a simple web search of my name Obed Gardiner Jr). MY CREDENTIALS 1. I won my first medal at age five in primary school in the 50-yard dash. 2. As a junior boy in high school (St. John’s College in Nassau) there was no one in my age group in the Bahamas that could beat me as a runner (100M, 400M, 800M) and in long jump and high jumper. 3. At age 16, I literally broke the world’s record (for my age) in the triple jump in

my house sports at Munro College in Jamaica (49ft 7in) which I think up to this day is better than the national record of the TCI. Plus I’m Jamaica’s National Senior Boys champion for two consecutive years (1968/9). 4. At age 18, after three months in a US university (SIU), I won the Illinois State Championship (Indoor) with a jump of 51ft 3 ¼ inches (record) which took me to the NCAAA championship Division I (rated #2 in all universities). Additionally I won the Mid-Western and Central Collegiate Championships. 5. At age 19 I represented the Bahamas at the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, Scotland. 6. As a rookie of the year in 1972, I represented the Bahamas in three international volleyball competitions in Haiti, USA and the Bahamas. 7. I was the goal-keeper for the Bahamas’ All Star School

Boy 11. 8. I represented all of my schools in table-tennis, softball and basketball. 9. I created a track and field club which produced Olympic and World champions including Pauline Davis and Eldice Clarke among many other international champions. 10. I acquired and secured over US$1M worth of scholarships (free of charge) for student/athletes over the years. 11. I am the father of national sports in the TCI (1977/8) and placed the TCI on the world’s map through sports. I coached the TCI to its first international medals in history (gold, silver, bronze (Florida Relays) and bronze in the Carifta Games in Nassau. WITHOUT VISION THE PEOPLE PERISH I am an acclaimed international legend in the Bahamas, USA and Jamaica, but yet not once have I been recognised for what I’ve done for my country/place

of birth. Us natives are selfcentred, loaded with black crab mentalities and selfdestructiveness. Over one year ago, I offered my services/experience/ expertise to this government, yet they refuse to even acknowledge my willingness to assist. At age 63 I have been suffering from MS for 40 years, yet I receive no assistance from the elected government (the interim gov’t accommodates me with rent). Only God with the benevolence of kind-minded private members of society have been helping me with food and

clothes. People are shocked to find out my non-assistance from the elected government. I can go on and on, but it serves no purpose. Suffice it to say that our governments are/ have not been serious about sports in this country. They have not pumped any meaningful amount of funds into any sports in this country. The business community must be applauded for their benevolence and investments in the youths of this country. Next week I have a cat to let out of the bag, so don’t miss the next edition of Josh for Sports. So long, love Josh.

PROVO BEVERAGES Is looking for a

Labourer • Must be willing to work six days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable Salary $5.00 per hour Hours are from 8:00am4:00pm

Contact: 649-941-3637 or fax: 649-941-3637 9515

Rapidly growing Company is seeking to fill the position listed below:

Area Design/ Draftsman Job Requirements Knowledge: • BA Degree or equivalent experience required • 2 years minimum Drafting experience • Fluent in English Language • Must have a valid driver’s license Skill: • Strong analytical, problem solving. Supervisory/Management Skills • Proficient in computer skills, including Auto CAD 2 dimensional design and drafting, Excel & Internet • Must be proficient in rendering and reading floor designs • Strong verbal and written skills and knowledge Abilities: • Results oriented, while paying a high attention to detail and results • Goal oriented, driven & ability to work alone • Able to meet deadlines • Professional & courteous • Must be able to provide references & samples of your work • Commencement date- February 2014

Interested & eligible applicants Email your resumes to : hr@doitcenterprovo.com or hand deliver to Building Materials Ltd.

Public Notice Contract No. EURRP5_CON5003_ REPAIR WORKS CONTRACT CHANGE OF CLOSING DATE Tenders are invited for the repair works contract for homes on Grand Turk, South Caicos and Salt Cay 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 Contractors are invited to contact the project officer Crysenne Dickenson at ccdickenson@gov.tc to obtain an electronic copy of the tender documents for this tender. Tenders will close on Monday 24th March, 2014.

Sports National

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WIV Provo Premier League:

Academy way ahead after fourth consecutive win

THE AFC Academy have taken a commanding five-point lead in the WIV Provo Premier League after having won four consecutive games. Their latest victims were last season’s President Cup winners Rozo FC. The undefeated Academy side now sit on 12 points with the SWA Sharks on seven and Cheshire Hall FC, Teachers FC and Rozo FC on four points each. The league leaders ended Rozo’s unbeaten run with a 3-1 win. The Academy when ahead in the 12th minute when Marcdonald Fenelus found the back of the net, but Rozo drew even one minute later when Jeanlis Job produced a good run and finish. It was the 13-year-old substitute Mackenson Cadet, one of the youngest players in the league, who put Academy ahead after some good work from Wildens Delva in the second half. Another youngster, Cole Nickson, also 13, made his league debut for the winners. Fenelus later sealed the game with

another successful strike. The other two games played were draws. Teachers and Beaches drew 2-2 on Saturday evening (giving the latter their first point), while Trailblazers and the Sharks also tied it up 2-all. The finish resulted in the former also getting their first point in the league. TEACHERS COME FROM BEHIND Courtney Tain scored twice for the Teachers. His pivotal goal was scored in injury time when Beaches thought they had the win. Orlando Planter and Omar Chambers found the back of the net for Beaches. SMALL ATTACK Romain Small netted twice for the Trailblazers. He latched onto a ball from the midfield and outpaced the sluggish Sharks’ defence to score the opener. Eight minutes later, he did the same again and could have had more with steadier shooting. Welsh wizard, Richie Lock, with

Marcdonald Fenelus scored twice for the AFC Academy in their 3-1 win over Rozo FC.

a defender right on his back, pulled off a superb scissor/overhead kick with the ball whistling into the top left had corner leaving the crowd in ecstasy to give the Sharks their first goal. They drew even in the 66th minute when Dady Aristide found the back of the net.

PABA Night League:

Predators upset Flyers FORMER champions, the Five Cay Flyers suffered their second loss when action in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League continued last Saturday night at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court. Michael Taylor scored 21 points in the Predators’ 62-50 point win. Steve Bras led the Flyers with nine points. The GT Stallions and South Caicos Harbour Boys remain on top of the league after winning their games. Both teams have one loss each. On Friday night the Stallions made light work of the Shottas 7648. Kino Williams scored 19 points and made three assists. Ray Smith was just short of a triple double for the Shottas. He scored 16 points, grabbed 10 boards and seven steals. Also on Friday night the J&D Collectors defeated the Spartans 7951. Derek Hanna led the Collectors with 18 points and six boards while Renardo Palmer finished with 13 points and six rebounds for the Spartans. Saturday night opened with the Steelers defeating the Shottas 6158. Ray Smith again led the attack with 16 points and seven rebounds,

Michael Taylor led the Predators with 21 points.

while Wesley Cherry finished with a huge 17 points and 17 boards for the Steelers. In the second clash Jonathan Paul led the Harbour Boys to an 86-77 point win over the

Knights after scoring a whopping 29 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals. The Knights were led by Mark Handfield who finished with 22 points and 11 boards.

Romain Small scored the Trailblazers’ goals in their draw with the Sharks.

Provo Hockey League:

MacLaren and Saunders continue to light up Mini Division AFTER a somewhat slow start in the first playing date for 2014 (one goal each) young players Michael Saunders and Ronin MacLaren have heated up the Mini Division of the Provo Hockey League with exceptional performances. Last Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre the pair combined for a solid 10 goals in their teams’ wins. It was their third such performance over the last three weeks. Saunders who plays for the Digicel Comets scored all the goals in his team’s 6-3 win over the Saunders and Co Owls. Jaden Robinson and Gabriel Osmond added two and one assists respectively. Joshua Saunders scored all of the Owls’ goals. MacLaren, who has had a terrific season so far, also led his team to victory; the youngster scored four goals and made an assist in the Gansevoort Gators’ 5-4 win over the Sailrock Lobsters. Jake When added one goal and two assists for the winner, while Jude Smith finished with an assist. The Lobsters were led by Khalid Fulford who scored twice and Vijay Kalliecharen and Giovanni Astwood who added one each. In the two weeks prior to last Saturday’s games Saunders had scored five goals against the Gators and three against the Lobsters while McLaren had scored six against the Comets and four against the Owls.

BANTAM DIVISION The J&W Construction Hurricanes edged out the Coco Bistro Lightning 7-6 when action continued in the Bantam Division. Orrin Campbell led the winners with two goals and three assists while Javed Shearer and Joe Canham had two goals each. The Lightning were led by Dylan Ayer (three goals) and Sebastian Turbyfield (two goals and one assist). The Lightning bounced back to defeat the Gracebay Resort Surge 6-4 later in the day. Ayer finished with three goals and an assist. The Surge’s Zarek Swann also scored three goals. MIDGET DIVISION The Gracebay Car Rentals and Sales Panthers kept their undefeated streak intact when they got past the Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates 6-5. Matthew Harnett scored three goals and made an assist while Gabriel DiotteJoly added two goals and Darius Coackley Jr. three assists. The Pirates were led by Dockarick Barrett and Kyle Cox with two goals each. Liam Delancy added the other goal and two assists. In the other Midget clash the Scotiabank Sharks defeated the BCQS Flames 6-4. Sean Karam (two goals and an assist), Alyssa Laing (two goals) and Cole Nickson (one goal and two assists) led the winners. The Flames were led by Gregory Lewis with three goals.

February 15 - 21, 2014

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Williams runs new 400M PB in season opener

– Records better time than Warren Weir TCI born, world rated, sprinter Delano Williams stormed to a new personal best in the 400M when he competed in his season opener, the Camperdown Classic, last Saturday in Jamaica at the National Stadium. The 200M World Junior champion, who accelerated in the final 150M, stormed to 47.51s to eclipse the 47.81s he ran in January of 2013 at the Queen’s/ Grace Jackson meet. Williams’s 47.81s is TCI’s national record; his new PB cannot be considered since he

switched allegiances to Great Britain last year. Williams, who also holds TCI’s 100M and 200M records, won his heat, but finished ninth overall with Racers teammate Edino Steele winning in 45.44s. Yohan Blake, Williams’s training partner, finished third with a time of 47.20s behind Allodin Fothergill (46.15s). The former Munro College star sprinter posted a better time that Senior World Champion 200M silver

medallist and teammate at Racers Warren Weir (47.53s). Another Racers teammate, Usain Bolt, did not run at the meet. Williams who is a 200M specialist told the Weekly News that he felt “heavy” during the race, but feels that as the season progress he would get better. Racers head coach Glen Mills had worked on fixing a few flaws in Williams’s techniques with the aim of cutting down his time.

TCI born Delano Williams (right) says that former 100M world champion Yohan Blake (second from left) has been a key motivator for him.

TCI to host two visiting rugby teams

The senior men’s team that destroyed BVI 40-0 to win the Shield title last year will use the friendlies to prepare for the historic three match series against Jamaica, The Bahamas and Mexico this year.

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) will be hosting two visiting rugby teams over the next month the Bayonne Bombers RFC and George Washington University RFC in late February and early March. The Bombers are returning for their third trip to the TCI while this is GWU’s first journey to the Islands. The matches will represent a good trial for the national senior side as they prepare for a historic threematch series against Jamaica, The Bahamas and Mexico this year. Local Captain Sean O’Neill said: “The season has worked out well this year and these matches are going to give a number of players a chance to prove

themselves ahead of our international matches. We have been going through our preseason fitness work and these matches will help test where we are in terms of match readiness.” After their success at the NACRA tournament last summer the local Under-21 side will have the first shot at the GWU. President Keith Burant is hoping that they can impress in front of the home crowd. Burant said: “The guys did really well in Trinidad last year and we are hoping that they will be able to bring that same success when they get to play in front of their friends and family. We hope to have plenty of people out to support them and encourage our young athletes. This will give the coaches a chance to

assess the younger players in a match situation.” The three-match series will see a select side take on the Bombers under lights on Friday the 28th of February at 19:00h with the U-21 national side taking on GWU at 19:00h on Wednesday the 12th of March before the men’s national team take on GWU on Saturday the 15th of March at 16:00h. All matches will take place at the Meridian Field in Grace Bay. Entry is free; beverages will be available for purchase as well as food from Jerkeys. The men’s team will continue their preparation by taking part in a tournament in New Orleans the weekend prior to the Bombers’ visit.

4th Annual Wine Cellar Golf and Fishing Tournament:

2014 CARIFTA team and Edward Gartland Youth Centre to benefit

THE fourth instalment of the annual Wine Cellar Golf and Fishing Tournament (WCGFT) will have the 2014 TCI CARIFTA team and the Edward Gartland Youth Centre as beneficiaries. The fun-filled, family oriented, fourday weekend event (March 20-23) is an extremely important one on TCI’s calendar. This year’s event starts on Thursday with

the Calcutta and Captains’ Meeting (Fishing portion); the pre-party and bidding on boats begin at Tiki Hut. Then, two days of fishing (Friday and Saturday, March 21st and 22nd) are each followed by a fresh fish auction of the day’s catch; music, entertainment and kids friendly games are hosted at Salt Bar & Grill at the Blue Haven Resort & Marina. Complimentary berthing and preferred fuel

pricing is offered to participants of the fishing tournament by Blue Haven Resort & Marina. Rounding out the weekend is the golfing portion of the event, at the Provo Golf Club, where four-player teams will vie for bragging rights and fantastic prizes. There will also be a silent auction. The WCGFT is a not-for-profit charity event hosted every year with all proceeds

donated to the Edward Gartland Youth Centre and another local charity at equal portions. The last three tournaments have raised an incredible $43,000 to help the different youth-oriented charity organisations. For more information or to sign up for the fun, please visit the website at www.wcgft. net or Contact: Desmond Williams at 649333-7801.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014

LAND FOR SALE In beautiful Bottle Creek, North Caicos

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CALL 232-3508 or 946-4664

February 15 - 21, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 15 - 21, 2014